[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!
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[2025] A collection of classic and popular tracks for hip-hop beginners to listen to (21–30)
Whatever You LikeT.I.
A track released as a digital download by T.
I.
in 2008.
It became a hit worldwide, reaching No.
1 on the charts in the United States and New Zealand.
It samples Bill Conti’s 1979 track “Redemption (Theme From Rocky II).” The music video features appearances by actor Jackie Long and rapper Lil Duval.
Nothin’ But a ‘G’ ThangDr.Dre ft Snoop dogg
A collaboration between Dr.
Dre and Snoop Dogg released in 1992.
It’s considered a gangsta rap classic, depicting a lifestyle saturated with music, money, and violence.
It samples Leon Haywood’s 1975 track “I Want’a Do Something Freaky to You.”
[2025] A roundup of classic and popular tracks for hip-hop beginners to listen to (31–40)
Halfway Off The BalconyBig Sean
Big Sean is a Detroit rapper active since 2007.
He is also known for serving as a supporting act on tours by J.
Cole and Rihanna.
This track is included on his fourth album, ‘I Decided,’ released in 2017.
On EverythingDJ Khaled ft. Travis Scott, Rick Ross, Big Sean
An epic track released in 2017 by American musician and producer DJ Khaled.
It reached No.
10 on the New Zealand charts.
It samples Mark Pritchard’s 2016 track “Under the Sun.”
INDUSTRY BABYLil Nas X, Jack Harlow
A bold new work that fuses trap and pop-rap has arrived, marked by powerful brass sounds and an impactful beat.
In July 2021, American artists Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow collaborated on this track, which hit No.
1 on streaming charts in countries around the world and topped the U.
S.
Billboard charts.
The lyrics push back against criticism and prejudice in the music industry, showcasing the duo’s unwavering confidence.
Kanye West also participated in the production, elevating the song’s polish with outstanding sound design.
This track is perfect for firing yourself up before a sports game or during training—a song that stirs the spirit when you need motivation.
DANCE ON MELancey Foux
Rancy Fox from London, UK released a synth-driven, dreamlike track in March 2025.
The beat, produced by Snipes and Number Nine, has a distinctive texture reminiscent of Clams Casino’s early-2010s work, creating a hazy mood that conjures nighttime drives through London.
Issued as the lead single ahead of the album “The Time of Our Lives,” the song signals a new artistic chapter for Fox, who is also active in the fashion world.
It’s a track that fully showcases the talents of a creator thriving in both music and fashion, and it’s recommended for those seeking urbane vibes and an ideal soundtrack for a late-night drive.
Keep Their Heads Ringin’Dr. Dre
The track produced by Dr.
Dre, a leading figure in West Coast hip-hop, was released in March 1995 as part of the soundtrack for the film Friday.
Its lyrics, which skillfully express the energizing power of party music and the artist’s own lifestyle, are especially striking.
The hallmark G-funk sound—featuring a heavy bassline and smooth synthesizer tones—blends seamlessly with the interpolation from The Sequence’s “Funk You Up.” The song was also a commercial success, reaching No.
10 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It won Best Rap Video at the MTV Video Music Awards the same year.
Still cherished as a nightlife staple, it’s a perfect pick to boost your mood or for a drive with friends.