Western Hip-Hop Popularity Rankings [2025]

Just A FriendBiz Markie50rank/position

Biz Markie – Just A Friend (Official Video)

Rapper Biz Markie, also known as a beatbox master.

This work is his signature track that won popularity with his comical persona.

Based on real-life experiences, the song expresses the frustrations of romance with a light rhythm and humorous lyrics.

Released in September 1989, it reached No.

9 on the Billboard charts and became a massive hit, earning a platinum certification.

Included on the album “The Biz Never Sleeps,” this track is guaranteed to liven up bright settings like summer parties and BBQs.

Why not add this classic that stands as a milestone in hip-hop history to your summer playlist?

Backr00msPlayboi Carti51rank/position

“BACKR00MS” FT TRAVIS SCOTT SEXISDEATH INDIANA420BITCH

It could be called the new standard in Western hip-hop.

Hailing from Georgia, popular rapper Playboi Carti dropped a striking promotional track, “Backr00ms,” on January 1, 2024.

His collaboration with Travis Scott showcases truly cutting-edge sound that has hip-hop fans buzzing.

The lo-fi visuals and exotic dance scenes are sprinkled throughout, perfectly capturing their signature style.

It’s a must-listen not only for early-adopter music fans but also for anyone looking to dive into hip-hop.

Now, see for yourself the new frontier of Playboi Carti!

Still Not a Player feat. JoeBig Pun52rank/position

Big Pun – Still Not a Player (Official Video) ft. Joe

The allure of this landmark East Coast hip-hop track, which made a major impact in the late ’90s, lies in the sensual world crafted by Big Pun, a trailblazing Latin artist.

His exceptional lyrical skill, commanding flow, and the addition of R&B singer Joe created a sound that captivated countless listeners.

Released in March 1998 as the second single from the album Capital Punishment, the track reached No.

24 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and achieved the historic feat of becoming the first platinum-certified single by a solo Latin hip-hop artist.

It’s a perfect song for late-night drives.

The exquisite groove woven from sultry R&B phrases and deft rap pairs flawlessly with the city at night, and its soothing melody is sure to move you.

Kant Nobody ft. DMXLil Wayne53rank/position

Lil Wayne – Kant Nobody ft. DMX

A track with a powerful beat and impactful lyrics that hip-hop fans won’t be able to resist! Lil Wayne’s razor-sharp flow blends seamlessly with the commanding sample from the late DMX, drawing listeners in.

Released in February 2023 and included on Lil Wayne’s “I Am Music,” this song proudly asserts his place in the hip-hop scene while paying respect to the pioneers who came before him.

It’s perfect not only for those who want to dance, but also for moments when you need confidence or a boost in motivation.

Ride the rhythmic groove and express your true self.

Down With MeLil Tecca54rank/position

Lil Tecca – Down With Me (Official Video)

Lil Tecca’s “Down With Me” is a dazzling, gem-like track that arrived as a surprise for fans in late December 2023.

Its lyrical themes delve deeply into bonds with those around him and the meaning of trust.

True to Lil Tecca’s path-forging persona, his words leave a strong impression as they declare that the challenges will continue.

While maintaining his distinctive flow, he also ventures into new musical experiments, delivering a work that won’t disappoint true music fans.

Clever touches from a cutting-edge trackmaker are sprinkled throughout, keeping listeners engaged.

As a song that leads hip-hop trends, it’s a confidently recommended pick for discerning listeners!

Rapper’s DelightThe Sugarhill Gang55rank/position

Rapper’s Delight

Often described as the first hit song in hip-hop, this track captures the genre’s early heartbeat.

Hip-hop is said to have been born as Black communities gathered in parks to party, and this song evokes that origin.

The style in which MCs trade verses over a microphone while rapping on top of a simple, funk-based track—the foundation of hip-hop—developed from this song.

TalkKhalid56rank/position

Khalid – Talk – Dance Choreography by David Moore – #TMillyTV

Khalid’s song conveys the importance of honest communication in romantic relationships.

The lyrics strikingly portray the feelings of a protagonist who’s in the honeymoon stage of love but senses the relationship is moving too fast.

Released in February 2019 and included on the album Free Spirit, the track became Khalid’s fifth top-10 hit.

Created in collaboration with the British duo Disclosure, it achieved commercial success, earning platinum certifications in many countries.

It’s a recommended pick for anyone who wants to do rhythmic hip-hop dance to Khalid’s laid-back vocals.