Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of the best Hip Hop beats, as Spotify unveils its greatest selections. As we all know, “Top” lists in Hip Hop often create a stir. Whether it’s a debate over who is the greatest or conversing about artists deserving of Mount Rushmore placements, ranking artists always makes waves. After sharing its “50 Greatest Hip Hop Beats of All Time” list, Spotify did just that to celebrate Hip Hop’s 50th Anniversary.
From the iconic sounds of Kanye West’s “Power” to the timeless groove of Dr. Dre’s “Still D.R.E.” and the contemporary vibes of Travis Scott’s “Sicko Mode,” these tracks found themselves in the Top 10 spots. Arguably, the songs are considered some of Rap’s finest production moments, capturing the essence and evolution of Hip Hop. Stay tuned as we celebrate these incredible beats that have left an indelible mark on music history. Also, let us know if you think this Top 10 needs some adjusting.
10. “Get Ur Freak On” – Missy Elliott
Missy Elliott’s “Get Ur Freak On” is an iconic track that was released in 2001 as the lead single from her album Miss E… So Addictive. Produced by Timbaland, who also contributed guest vocals, “Get Ur Freak On” blends Eastern-inspired melodies with infectious beats. The track achieved immense chart success, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim for its groundbreaking sound. Its music video, directed by Dave Meyers, also became a cultural phenomenon. Missy’s dynamic flow and Timbaland’s inventive production help make “Get Ur Freak On” a timeless classic that continues to inspire.
9. “SICKO MODE” – Travis Scott ft. Drake, Swae Lee
Travis Scott’s “Sicko Mode” is a game-changing hip-hop anthem that captivates listeners with its dynamic shifts. Released in 2018 as part of his album Astroworld, the song features guest appearances from Drake and Swae Lee, adding to its star-studded appeal. The production credits include a team of talented producers, namely Rogét Chahayed, Hit-Boy, OZ, Tay Keith, and Cubeatz. “Sicko Mode” quickly climbed the charts, peaking at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning multi-platinum certifications. Its success can be attributed to its unconventional structure, seamlessly transitioning through different sonic landscapes. The song’s fusion of Trap, Hip Hop, and psychedelic elements speaks to Scott and production’s artistic vision.
8. “Still Tippin” – Mike Jones ft. Paul Wall & Slim Thug
Mike Jones’s “Still Tippin” is a definitive track that propelled him into the mainstream. Released in 2004, the song captivated audiences with its catchy hooks and infectious Southern sound. “Still Tippin” features guest verses from Slim Thug and Paul Wall, who added rounded out the track beautifully. The production credits go to Salih Williams, who crafted the hypnotic beat that became instantly recognizable.
Additionally, the song peaked at No. 60 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a staple in the emerging Houston rap scene. With its distinctive Texas flavor, “Still Tippin” solidified Mike Jones’s presence in the Rap game and remains a beloved anthem for Hip Hop fans.
7. “It’s All About the Benjamins (Remix)” – Puff Daddy & The Family
If you want to get the party started, this is the track. The “All About the Benjamins Remix” is a legendary collaboration that has become an anthem. Released in 1997, the track was a remix of the original song by Puff Daddy (now known as Diddy) and featured an all-star lineup of guest artists. This includes The Notorious B.I.G., Lil’ Kim, and Jadakiss. The production credits go to Diddy himself, alongside DJ Clue and Nashiem Myrick. “All About the Benjamins Remix” was a megahit, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a staple in playlists.
6. “Power” – Kanye West
Kanye West’s “Power” arrived during a significant shift in the rapper’s career. “Power” was featured in My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, an album that some have hailed as West’s best. The track instantly grabbed attention with its grandeur and unapologetic lyrics. “Power” features a memorable sample of “21st Century Schizoid Man” by King Crimson and boasts production credits from West himself, along with S1, Jeff Bhasker, and Mike Dean. The song peaked at No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 and received widespread critical acclaim. With its triumphant instrumentation and Kanye’s commanding presence, “Power” also stands as a testament to his creative genius.
5. “A Milli” – Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne’s “A Milli” is one of many classic favorites from the Louisiana icon. This one was pulled from Weezy’s Tha Carter III, released in 2008. Produced by Bangladesh, the song’s beat and hook became instantly recognizable. “A Milli” peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned multi-Platinum certifications. The track is a solo effort from Lil Wayne, once again demonstrating his uncanny ability to craft hits alone of with his contemporaries by his side.
4. “Who Shot Ya?” – The Notorious B.I.G
The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Who Shot Ya?” was released in 1995 and initially faced controversy due to its timing. It was released shortly after the shooting of Tupac Shakur in New York—the incident that sparked the East Coast, West Coast controversy. However, “Who Shot Ya?” is not directly linked to the incident. The track also stands out with Biggie’s hard-hitting lyricism over a haunting beat produced by Nashiem Myrick and Poke. Notably, the song was not released as a single and didn’t chart on the Billboard Hot 100. Nonetheless, it has since gained immense recognition.
3. “Grindin” – The Clipse
The Clipse’s “Grindin” makes listeners want to pound on the closest desk. Released in 2002, the song instantly grabbed attention due to it’s The Neptunes production. Pusha T and Malice, the duo comprising The Clipse, also deliver gritty verses, embodying the hustler mentality. The track also peaked at No. 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has gone on to become a signature Hip Hop classic. There have been rumors of The Clipse getting together for a reunion, so maybe we’ll get a 2.0 for the new generation.
2. “Shook Ones, Pt. II” – Mobb Deep
Mobb Deep’s “Shook Ones Pt. II” is a timeless classic. Released in 1995, Havoc and Prodigy deliver sharp verses over a haunting beat. The song further epitomizes the hardcore East Coast sound of the mid-’90s. The production credits go to Havoc himself, who crafted the track’s atmospheric and menacing instrumental. “Shook Ones Pt. II” achieved critical acclaim and became an instant fan favorite, although it didn’t achieve significant commercial success on the charts. However, its impact on Hip Hop cannot be overstated, as it remains a benchmark for raw lyricism and street authenticity.
1. “Still Dre” – Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg
Compton and Long Beach, stand up! Dr. Dre’s iconic track “Still D.R.E” continues to resonate with Hip Hop fans worldwide. Released in 1999, Dre’s signature West Coast sound and features Snoop Dogg’s smooth verses come together beautifully. Dr. Dre himself co-produced the track alongside Scott Storch, infusing it with his trademark heavy beats and infectious melodies. The song’s production credits also include Mel-Man.
“Still D.R.E” achieved immense success on the charts, peaking at No. 93 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching the Top 10 in several countries. Its impact extends beyond its chart performance, as it has become an anthem for Dre’s enduring influence. “Still D.R.E” remains a timeless classic that solidifies Dr. Dre’s status as a legendary figure in the genre.