A classic of Mexican hip hop and Chicano rap
Chicano rap—rap by Mexican Americans.
It’s often misunderstood as “Spanish-language hip-hop = Chicano rap,” but as long as the artist is Mexican American, it counts as Chicano rap even if they’re rapping in English.
What really defines Chicano rap is its old-school vibe that pays homage to oldies.
Its refusal to chase trends is a big part of Chicano rap’s appeal.
This time, we’ve picked out some classic Chicano rap tracks!
From timeless old-school cuts to the latest hits, we’ve curated a wide range—be sure to check them out!
Mexican hip-hop, Chicano rap classics (1–10)
UnemployedKing Lil G
King Lil G, a Mexican-American rapper from Los Angeles, is an indispensable figure in the world of Chicano rap and is respected as a legend by many heads.
One of his iconic tracks is “Unemployed.” While Chicano rap places great importance on old-school vibes, King Lil G has always chased trends, and this song represents the culmination of that pursuit—delivering a cutting-edge take on Chicano rap.
La RazaKid Frost
Kid Frost, an American rapper known as a legend of Chicano rap.
His son, Scoop DeVille, is also active as a rapper.
This track, “La Raza,” is renowned as one of Kid Frost’s signature songs and was released in 1990.
The song embodies a classic, old-school feel, delivering quintessential Chicano rap.
For fans of 1990s Westside (West Coast) vibes, it’s an irresistible track.
Be sure to check it out.
Ordinary DayCali Life Style
As a quintessential presence in Chicano rap, the duo Cali Life Style has remained at the forefront from the 1990s to the present.
In the Chicano underground, they’re revered as legends, earning respect from countless heads and fellow rappers.
One of their classic tracks is Ordinary Day.
Released in 1996, this song became a staple of the old-school Chicano sound and influenced many rappers.
In Japan, it holds a position similar to the iconic track Ningen Hatsudensho.
No CosignLil Weirdo
Lil Weirdo is known for his downer style and is one of the rappers at the forefront of Chicano rap.
His musicality can be summed up in one word: original.
None of his works follow trends or lean old-school—they unfold with a uniquely his own sound.
His classic “No Cosign” is a distinctive piece that lays a modern, cool rap over a track reminiscent of the harder sounds of the early 1990s.
DreamLil Rob
Lil Rob is a Mexican-American rapper from San Diego.
He’s also active as a music producer and actor, so among the rappers featured in this article, many of you may already know him.
His track “Dream,” released in 2009, became a hit with its musical style that blends mellow R&B and breezy Chicano rap.
It might not be to the taste of those who prefer the underground, but it’s polished with a stylish, groovy sound—definitely worth a listen!
How We RideMost Wanted Familia Ft. FKM
Most Wanted Familia and FKM, who are popular in the Chicano rap scene.
The classic track they collaborated on is How We Ride.
Released in 2019, this song carries a distinctly gangsta vibe even within Chicano rap.
The old-school-inspired flow—one of Chicano rap’s hallmarks—is also striking.
It’s a recommended pick for anyone who loves hard, old-school hip-hop.
SacrificesDevour
Devour is a rapper who has won a wide following with a trap-infused sound that taps into current trends.
He’s extremely well-known as an underground Chicano rapper, and in the relatively small Chicano rap scene he has nearly 200,000 followers on social media.
His track “Sacrifices,” released in 2020, gained popularity with a classic, trend-conscious style that incorporates trap.
Be sure to check it out.