Western Hip-Hop Popularity Rankings [2025]

Paid In FullEric B. & Rakim36rank/position

Eric B. & Rakim – Paid In Full

The way rhymes are constructed is also a key point to pay attention to when listening to hip-hop.

So let me introduce a track that sparked a revolution in rhyming techniques: “Paid in Full.” This is the debut single by the hip-hop duo Eric B.

& Rakim.

Its lyrics make extensive use of “internal rhyme,” where rhymes occur within a single phrase.

This technique is now commonly used in Japanese hip-hop as well, and its roots can be traced back to this song.

One LoveBob Marley37rank/position

One Love (Official Fan Made Music Video) – Bob Marley

Bob Marley’s classic song “One Love.” In contrast to its warm, gentle melody, the lyrics sharply probe what it means to be human, and their excellence has earned the song respect from listeners around the world.

If you don’t understand English, be sure to read the Japanese translation of the lyrics.

Lighters UpLil’ Kim38rank/position

Lil’ Kim – Lighters Up (Official Video)

Lil’ Kim, the great rapper who laid the foundation for female rap.

With numerous hits and a profound impact on the scene, she’s also known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop,” a title backed by her exceptional skills.

Among her many classics, a track that pairs especially well with summer is “Lighters Up.” Its Latin-tinged production—evoking Cuban Afro and bolero—combined with her simple yet captivating rap makes for a striking piece.

Keep Their Heads Ringin’Dr. Dre39rank/position

Dr. Dre – Keep Their Heads Ringin’ (Official Video) [Explicit]

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.

ThotianaBlueface40rank/position

Thotiana

This is a popular song by Blueface, released in 2018.

Blueface suddenly appeared with his 2017 debut, and his unique rap style and vocal tone quickly hooked listeners, propelling him to become a breakout rapper.

This track in particular has become a club hit.

He was 22 at the time of release—a young, talented rapper with a promising future ahead!

They Reminisce Over YouPete Rock & CL Smooth41rank/position

Pete Rock & CL Smooth – They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.) (Official Video)

Pete Rock & CL Smooth, a hip-hop duo representing New York.

They emerged during the golden age of rap, and they also excel at jazz rap, effortlessly handling everything from classic, straight-ahead rap to more melodic styles.

Among their works, the renowned classic is “They Reminisce Over You.” The track, infused with a jazzy vibe, pairs perfectly with their laid-back yet tightly rhymed delivery, offering exceptional stability and groove.

In My FeelingsDrake42rank/position

In My Feelings – Drake / Beginner’s Class

A massively popular 2018 hit by the one-and-only rapper Drake.

In the U.

S.

, it sparked a trend of people posting “dance challenge” videos on social media using this track.

It’s mellow, catchy, and easy to remember, so even beginners might find it easy to dance to.