[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 recommended for hip-hop beginners (51–60)
On The Come UpMike Will Made It ft. Big Sean
A moody track by American producer, rapper, and singer-songwriter Mike Will Made It.
It samples Osvaldo Golijov’s 2007 track “Night of the Flying Horses: Close Your Eyes Doina – Gallop.” The track is included on his 2017 album Ransom 2.
Hate It Or Love ItThe Game, 50 Cent
A track that sings about what had to be overcome to achieve success.
A collaboration between The Game and 50 Cent, it was released in 2005.
It samples The Trammps’ 1972 track “Rubber Band.”
GETTING BUCK IN HELLKordhell, DJ Paul & scarlxrd
A bold new release from a legendary hip-hop trio has just dropped and is already generating major buzz.
Blending electronic beats with elements of trap metal, the track is marked by an energetic, aggressive vibe.
Kordhell’s phonk-style production, DJ Paul’s groovy rhythms, and Scarlxrd’s fierce vocals come together in perfect harmony.
Released on September 27, 2024, the song appears as part of DJ Paul’s album “Music for The Funeral.” The lyrics, which convey a defiant stance against adversity and hardship, are sure to leave a powerful impression on listeners.
It’s the perfect pick for anyone looking to turn up the energy at parties or in the club scene.
Mama Said Knock You OutLL Cool J
A track released by LL Cool J in 1990.
It reached No.
2 on the U.
S.
charts and won a Grammy Award.
It samples Sly & the Family Stone’s 1967 track “Trip to Your Heart.” The track has been covered by artists such as Five Finger Death Punch.
[2025] A roundup of classic and popular tracks for hip-hop beginners to listen to (61–70)
The Show Goes OnLupe Fiasco
A track released in 2010 by American rapper and producer Lupe Fiasco.
It became a hit worldwide, reached No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts, and was nominated for a Grammy Award.
It was inspired by Modest Mouse’s 2004 track “Float On.”
Rake It UpYo Gotti, Mike WiLL Made-It ft. Nicki Minaj
A collaboration by Yo Gotti, Mike WiLL Made-It, and Nicki Minaj.
It was released as a digital download in 2017 and reached No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts.
It was inspired by Too Short’s 1987 track “Freaky Tales.”
In conclusion
Hip-hop, nearly 50 years since its birth, is a music genre—and a culture in itself—that has continued to evolve in its sound and lyrical content along with the times.
As you can tell just from the tracks introduced here, there are many classic songs featuring singers.
As I mentioned at the beginning, if you’re not comfortable with rap, I recommend starting with those kinds of classics to get used to it and then gradually digging deeper!