Classic Western hip-hop songs recommended for summer
Hip-hop and summer.
Hip-hop often seems to feature summer as a theme, but surprisingly, there aren’t actually that many hit songs that revolve around it.
So, this time I’ve put together a selection of Western hip-hop tracks perfect for summer!
I’ve picked songs that not only explicitly focus on summer, but also tracks that are beloved overseas as classic summer anthems—choices that fit the season from a variety of angles.
There are old-school classics in the mix too, so if you’re into 90s or 2000s hip-hop, this is a must-check!
- Classic Western songs to listen to in July: summer anthems and popular hits
- [US] Great Hip-Hop Classic
- Classic R&B songs perfect for summer: recommended popular tracks
- A roundup of 90s Western hip-hop: classics from the golden era
- [2025] Recommended popular melancholic summer classics in Western music
- [Latest] Trends in Western Hip-Hop Music [2025]
- [Western Music] Summer songs that were hits in the ’90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks
- Summer songs from Western music that were hits in the 2000s
- [Western music] Classic upbeat hip-hop tracks
- [Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / Golden Oldies
- A Guide to Western Rap: Introducing Legendary Classics
- [2025 Updated Edition] Western songs to listen to in summer: recommended summer tracks
- Golden age of Western music! Recommended summer songs that were hits in the 80s
Classic Western hip-hop songs recommended for summer (1–10)
Just A FriendBiz Markie
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?
Nuthin’ But a G Thang Ft. Snoop DoggDr. Dre
Dr.
Dre’s “Nuthin’ But a G Thang” featuring Snoop Dogg has sold over 10 million copies in the United States.
The track appears on his 1992 album The Chronic, and its funky, feel-good groove is perfect for summer.
The Chronic topped Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop chart, and among its songs, “Nuthin’ But a G Thang” stands out as a refreshing, distinctive track that helped advance the genre of gangsta rap.
If you’re looking for a ’90s hip-hop tune that pairs well with summer, this one is highly recommended!
U Can’t Touch ThisMC Hammer
Many of you might find the distinctive track familiar, right? Known as one of MC Hammer’s signature songs, this track features a memorable, catchy bassline sampled from Rick James’s “Super Freak.” Released in February 1990, it’s a high-energy number that blends dance and rap, boldly declaring Hammer’s success and confidence.
Its popularity was immense, earning accolades such as MTV Video Music Awards and Grammy Awards.
Famous for its flashy dance moves and fashion, it’s the perfect song for summer parties or whenever you want to boost your mood.
Classic Western hip-hop tracks recommended for summer (11–20)
JuicyThe Notorious B.I.G.
This work is known as one of The Notorious B.
I.
G.
’s signature songs.
Autobiographical in nature, it traces his path from a poor childhood to success in the music industry, and it’s crafted to be incredibly catchy.
Released in 1994 as the first single from his debut album Ready to Die, it climbed high on the Billboard charts.
Widely regarded by many media outlets and music critics as one of the most important songs in hip-hop history, it’s also a popular BBQ anthem overseas—highly recommended for summer outings.
People EverydayArrested Development
A classic summer anthem released in 1992.
Featured on the debut album “3 Years, 5 Months & 2 Days in the Life Of…,” this track blends a groovy, heat-soaked sound with a powerful social message.
Its lyrics portray conflicts within the African American community and the racial and social tensions faced in everyday life—resonating with listeners to this day.
Arrested Development’s message of the importance of love and unity makes it perfect for summer barbecues and beach parties.
A highly recommended song for anyone looking to enjoy summer with a positive vibe.
Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat)Digable Planets
Released in 1993, Digable Planets’ “Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat)” is characterized by its distinctive sound that fuses jazz and hip-hop.
Over a polished beat built on a sample from Art Blakey, the trio weaves smooth, rhyming flows.
The lyrics express their unique style, love for music, and pride in the hip-hop scene.
The track reached No.
15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and won a Grammy.
As a landmark of jazz rap, it remains beloved by many fans.
It’s a perfect pick when you want to cool down on a hot summer day or set a laid-back mood.
Nuthin’ But a G Thang DirtyDr. Dre, Snoop Doggy Dogg
Featuring Snoop Dogg, this track is known as a landmark of West Coast hip-hop.
Its lyrics vividly portray the gangsta lifestyle over a laid-back beat.
Included on the 1992 album The Chronic, it became a massive hit, reaching No.
2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It was also featured in the video game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, gaining popularity with a wide audience.
It’s the perfect song for creating a relaxed vibe—whether on a summer drive or at a party with friends.
Highly recommended not only for hip-hop fans but for anyone who enjoys music across genres.