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[2025] A roundup of classic and popular tracks hip-hop beginners should listen to
Born in the late 1970s, hip-hop has now become the biggest genre in the music industry, continually producing timeless songs and albums, as well as stars who transcend the boundaries of hip-hop.
Even within hip-hop, there’s a wide variety of styles, and the approaches differ by era.
So you might be thinking, “I’m interested in Western hip-hop, but I don’t know where to start.”
This article introduces classic hip-hop tracks suitable for beginners, while also weaving in many recent hits.
We’ve chosen songs that are easy to listen to even for those who feel uneasy about rap, and we hope this article can be a starting point that eventually leads you to dive deeper into old-school classics!
[2025] A Collection of Essential and Popular Hip-Hop Tracks for Beginners (1–10)
Lose YourselfEminem
Released in October 2002 as part of the soundtrack for the film 8 Mile, this track is known as one of Eminem’s signature works.
Characterized by its tense, gripping melody and powerful lyrics, it portrays the pressure to succeed and the importance of seizing opportunities.
The song achieved major commercial success, including spending 12 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
It also won the Academy Award for Best Original Song, becoming the first hip-hop track in history to receive the honor.
With its universal theme of embracing challenges and grabbing chances, the song is widely used to boost motivation in sports and business settings.
HUMBLE.Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar, the greatest rapper in today’s hip-hop scene whose every move draws constant attention.
The tracks from his April 2017 album DAMN reaffirmed his overwhelming talent to the world.
Lamar’s lyrics, which fuse sharp social observation with self-reflection, skillfully weave together criticism of modern society and admonitions to himself.
The work reached No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and as of April 2023, the music video has surpassed 900 million views.
By incorporating religious elements into its symbolic visuals, it underscores the song’s profound message on a visual level as well.
It’s a recommended track even for those interested in hip-hop but unsure where to start.
All My Life (ft. J. Cole)Lil Durk
A track from the album “Almost Healed,” released in May 2023, this song showcases Lil Durk’s new direction.
Departing from the Chicago drill style, it features an introspective, socially conscious message delivered through melodic rap.
His collaboration with J.
Cole drew widespread attention, and the song became a hit in many countries, peaking at No.
2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The lyrics celebrate the strength and resilience of two rappers who overcame adversity to achieve success, offering hope and inspiration to young listeners.
With its memorable chorus, it’s a standout that’s accessible even to those just getting into hip-hop.
NY State of MindNas
A track released in 1994 by the American hip-hop artist Nas.
It samples Joe Chambers’ 1977 track “Mind Rain.” The track was selected by Rolling Stone for its list of “The 50 Greatest Hip-Hop Songs of All Time.”
C.R.E.A.M.Wu Tang Clan
A track released in 1994 by the Wu-Tang Clan.
The title “C.
R.
E.
A.
M.” stands for “Cash Rules Everything Around Me.” It samples The Charmels’ 1967 track “As Long as I’ve Got You.”
Work ItMissy Elliott
Missy Elliott continues to transcend the boundaries of hip-hop, leaving a significant mark on the music scene.
Released in 2002, this work incorporates elements of old-school hip-hop while captivating listeners with her unique style.
Centered on themes of female self-affirmation and self-expression, the lyrics—crafted with clever wordplay and catchy rhythms—resonated with many listeners.
The song achieved major commercial success, winning a Grammy Award and holding the No.
2 spot on the Billboard charts for 10 consecutive weeks.
This dance-floor igniter is the perfect track for moments when you want to feel confident or need an energizing boost.
XO Tour Llif3Lil Uzi Vert
A track released as a digital download by Lil Uzi Vert in 2017.
It features a basic yet refined beat and won an MTV Video Music Award.
It samples Daniel Rosenfeld’s 2009 track “Minecraft Sound Effects.”