[Western music] Classic upbeat hip-hop tracks
Even in Japan, where rock used to dominate, hip-hop has been gaining the upper hand thanks to influences like freestyle.
Amid this shift, I think many people have become interested in hip-hop.
For those folks, we’ve picked out some especially high-energy tracks from Western hip-hop! We’ve also included info that will boost your hip-hop knowledge, so if you want to proudly say, “I’m a true head!!!,” this is a must-read!
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[Western music] Classic upbeat hip-hop tracks (11–20)
WHATCHU KNO ABOUT ME ft. Sexyy RedGloRilla
A hip-hop track brimming with confidence and pride from female rappers hailing from the South.
While carrying on the tradition of the Southern sound, it captivates listeners with contemporary flows and provocative lyrics.
The powerful performance by GloRilla and Sexyy Red embodies female self-affirmation and the hunger for success.
Featured on the album “Glorious,” released in October 2024, it dominated charts around the world.
A social media post by Taylor Swift sent it viral, drawing even more attention.
A perfect pick for anyone seeking confidence and empowerment.
WoahLil Baby
Lil Baby is a great rapper whose slightly airheaded persona contrasts with his highly polished musicality—which even earned him a Grammy.
While his character feels wild and unpredictable, many of his tracks are stylish; in particular, “Woah” showcases his exceptionally refined flow.
It’s not a hard-hitting song, but the neck-snapping track and flow are stunning.
If you’re just getting into trap, definitely give it a listen.
Straight Out The Gate (Feat. Serj Tankian)Tech N9ne
Tech N9ne is known as a representative of fastest rap.
He’s famous as a highly skilled rapper on par with Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, and Twista.
Among his works, the track I especially recommend is “Straight Out The Gate (Feat.
Serj Tankian).” In terms of sheer speed, Twista might be faster, but Tech N9ne not only raps rapidly—he also hits his rhymes incredibly precisely.
His flow is extremely intricate as well, so this song is regarded as a model example of fastest rap.
The groove born from the speed is breathtaking, so be sure to check it out.
tv offKendrick Lamar
This track fuses energetic beats with razor-sharp lyrics.
Kendrick Lamar’s musical talent is on full display, carrying a deep message that prompts social critique and self-reflection.
While rooted in the West Coast hip-hop style, it’s distinguished by a dramatic beat switch at around the two-minute mark.
Included on the album “GNX,” released in November 2024, it was issued as a single on November 26 of the same year.
It’s highly recommended for those who want to fully savor the appeal of hip-hop or deepen their thinking about society and themselves through music.
The MessageGrandmaster Flash & The Furious Fiv
Grandmaster Flash is a DJ who represents the old-school era of hip-hop.
The group Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, formed in 1979 with him at the center, is perfect for experiencing early hip-hop.
Among their work, The Message is especially recommended.
Building on the concept of breakbeats he learned from DJ Kool Herc and pushing it further, this piece gave rise to the now-standard technique of scratching.
Beyond its irresistible groove, it is also a hugely important work in the history of hip-hop.
I Like ItCardi B, Bad Bunny & J Balvin
The track I Like It became a worldwide smash hit through TikTok and Instagram.
It’s a song by Cardi B, a leading figure among female rappers, Bad Bunny, a Puerto Rican rapper who represents Latin trap, and J Balvin, a Colombian reggaeton singer-songwriter.
This work is a hallmark of Latin trap, brilliantly fusing the appeal of reggaeton with that of Latin trap.
Although it’s a slow-tempo track, it’s incredibly catchy—be sure to give it a listen.
[Western Music] Classic Upbeat Hip-Hop Tracks (21–30)
This Is How We Do ItMontell Jordan
With a groove that makes your body move before you know it and an irresistibly sunny vibe, this is a song that perfectly colors the summers of the ’90s.
American artist Montell Jordan’s debut single, released in February 1995, captures the sense of freedom of hitting the town on the weekend and the shine of those unassuming moments with friends, conveyed through straightforward lyrics and a soulful voice.
Its bold sampling of Slick Rick’s memorable lines feels like a symbol of the blissful meeting of hip-hop and R&B.
Taken from the album “This Is How We Do It,” the track spent seven consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was nominated for a Grammy.
It’s the perfect soundtrack for summer beaches and drives.