Eminem & Royce Da 5'9" - "Fast Lane"
Hope the Bad Meets Evil EP is for real. These two together are fantastic. Em has some interesting ideas for what he wants to do with Nicki Minaj and then goes in hyper speed. It's not as good as "Scary Movies" but it's still dope. Real lyricism is always welcome at The Writer's Block.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
Song of the Day
One Be Lo - "The Ghetto"
There have been about 100,000,000 songs called "The Ghetto" in hip-hop history. Some good, others not so much. One Be Lo tackles the subject to outstanding results. Some real shit here, great lyrics and a gloomy look at what living in the ghetto is really like. The second verse is my favorite as One Be Lo drops the following, "Every day the same shit/Hustlin' to get ya what your job can't get/And I ain't even talkin' about a Benz or Mercedes/I'm talkin' about tooth paste, diapers for your babies."
There have been about 100,000,000 songs called "The Ghetto" in hip-hop history. Some good, others not so much. One Be Lo tackles the subject to outstanding results. Some real shit here, great lyrics and a gloomy look at what living in the ghetto is really like. The second verse is my favorite as One Be Lo drops the following, "Every day the same shit/Hustlin' to get ya what your job can't get/And I ain't even talkin' about a Benz or Mercedes/I'm talkin' about tooth paste, diapers for your babies."
Thursday, April 28, 2011
The Best Hip-Hop Songs & Albums: 1997
Time for 1997. The best years in hip-hop for me were 1991-96, while ’97 is a bit of a dip in quality. Looking at the lists, there’s a lot of great music in ’97, it’s just not as strong as the other years so the drop off seems magnified. Still dope shit regardless. So let’s get down to business.
Best of 1997
Best Songs
20. “The Theme (It’s Party Time)” – Tracey Lee
Philly’s own Tracey Lee made his debut with this party anthem. Tracey Lee released a solid debut with Many Facez, taking on various personalities to drop different styles. A cool concept which produced mixed results. This track, as well as the Biggie collaboration “Keep Your Hands High,” are the true standouts on the album.
19. “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See” – Busta Rhymes
A great song with an even better video. Busta rhymed along with an elephant, had people doing tribal dances with neon paint in black lights, the whole thing was crazy good. The beat on this track is minimal, but fantastic and Busta made the phrase, “What the dilly-o?” a household phrase used everywhere, including an episode of The Simpsons.
18. “Wild For The Night” – Rampage feat. Busta Rhymes
Busta’s Flipmode partner released his solo debut in 1997 and this was the first single. Coming three years after Rampage’s “Beware of the Rampsack” single, which was my initial exposure to the Last Boy Scout, this track was hard hitting and Busta wylin’ out on the hook was terrific.
17. “Phone Tap” – The Firm
In theory, the Firm should’ve been one of the best hip-hop albums. Nas, AZ, Foxy Brown, and Nature rapping over Dre beats? How could that go wrong? Unfortunately supergroups rarely work. Not that the Firm album was awful, it just fell a little short. “Phone Tap,” however, did not. It was a great concept and executed wonderfully. The production on this track was terrific as well.
16. “Pronto” - CRU
What ever happened to CRU? They released a really dope debut album in 1997 and then just fell off the face of the Earth. This was the best song off their only album and it was a head nodder. Yogi brought some great lines on this one, while the Mighty Ha’s gruff voice really made the hook.
15. “Where I’m From” – Jay-Z
“Cough up a lung/Where I’m from/Marcy, son/Ain’t nuthin’ nice.” This beat was sinister. This was the hardest track on the In My Lifetime Vol. 1 and the closest thing to Reasonable Doubt. I liked Jay’s second album, it wasn’t a classic, but it had some nice songs. This was the best of the bunch.
14. “Jungle Brother” – Jungle Brothers
Loved this song when it came out. The beat has so much energy to it and Mike Gee and Baby Bam sound really fresh on it. This track takes me back every time I hear it. A lot of positive lyrics here like, “Now if I worry too much about all my have nots/I might not recognize just what I’ve got.”
13. “Luchini” – Camp Lo
Some old ‘70’s soul sounding hip-hop here. Camp Lo brought a vintage sound and vintage style to hip-hop. Glad to see that they’ve made a bit of comeback here in 2011. Their debut, Uptown Saturday Night, was chock full of dope cuts, none better than this one. This is it, what!
12. “Victory” – Puff Daddy feat. The Notorious B.I.G. & Busta Rhymes
This track dropped shortly after Biggie passed and had us all thankful to hear Big’s voice again. An incredible song with the Rocky-sampled beat and Busta on the hook, Puff pushed all the right buttons with this one.
11. “Step Into A World (Rapture’s Delight)” – KRS-One
Some all-time greats made quite an impact in 1997, as KRS, Rakim and EPMD all released albums. Of the three, I liked KRS’s album the most thanks to songs like this one. A great throwback to some old school boom-bap hip-hop, KRS destroyed this track.
10. “Da Joint” – EPMD
As I said above, great to have some legends putting out new material in ’97. I heard “Never Seen Before” on the How To Be A Player soundtrack and loved it. Then this song dropped as the second single off Back In Business and it was all over. The beat on this is one of my favorites from the year.
9. “Guantanamera” – Wyclef Jean feat. Lauryn Hill
Wyclef’s take on Cuba’s most famous song and he flipped it into a really dope hip-hop song. The beat is sick, ‘Clef does a nice job with the vocals and Lauryn Hill kills it with her guest spot.
8. “Dangerous” – O.C. feat. Big L
Two of D.I.T.C.’s finest and my two favorite MCs from the crew got together for this joint and ripped it apart. Mr. Walt on the beat for a vintage hip-hop sound. Both MCs are ridiculous on this one, but Big L got me to go “Oh Shit!” the first time I heard it.
7. “Soul In The Hole” – Wu-Tang All-Stars
Taken from the soundtrack for the film of the same name, this track was nasty. Super dope beat. It’s hard as hell. Shyheim drops the illest verse on the track, “I know n-ggas liver than Allen Iverson/Take it to the hole and roll it in/Triple-doublin’/Suicide drills get your calves built/Crossovers ill…”
6. “Notorious Thugs” – The Notorious B.I.G. feat. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
Didn’t know which song to pick off Life After Death. Contemplated “Kick In The Door,” “I Got A Story To Tell,” and “Ten Crack Commandments,” but then I remembered my reaction the very first time I heard “Notorious Thugs,” ….HOLY SHIT!!! Biggie just out did Bone using their own rhyme style. And remember Bone was huge back then. Biggie brought a lot more guests for the album, but no collaboration stood out as much as this. I still love this track to this day, so I’m giving it the nod over the other three.
5. “Guess Who’s Back?” – Rakim
Already discussed KRS-One and EPMD’s contributions to ’97, but neither of them got me as amped as Rakim’s return single. The beat on this one is straight up bonkers and Rakim shows why he’s the God MC. Even though his most influential work had happened a decade before, the 18th Letter brought his style into the late ‘90’s and sounded as dope as ever.
4. “Do You Believe?” – The Beatnuts
This is some hard hitting shit right here. The beat on this is one of the Beatnuts’ finest. Juju opens the song in fine fashion dropping, “It’s ill when I’m heated how my heart stay cold.” So mean. It’s phenomenal. Love the hook on this track as well. “Do you believe in God?/You do, tell him to save you.”
3. “Tried By 12” – East Flatbush Project
I was about to write how “Do You Believe?” was the meanest song on this list. Not so. This is one of the most in your face, raw, sinister and incredible tracks you’ll find. This is the best beat of ’97, hands down. And the hook on this is just sinister, “I’ll sign my name in the book at your funeral.”
2. “G.O.D.” – Common feat. Cee-Lo
This is the polar opposite of “Tried By 12.” One of the most introspective and thought provoking hip-hop songs ever recorded as Common and Cee-Lo both take turns breaking down one of the least talked about topics in hip-hop music: Religion. Common’s verse is incredible. I love the piano on this track and Cee-Lo signing on the hook was a goose bump moment the first time I heard it. “I’ve lived and I’ve learned/I have taken and I’ve earned/I have laughed and I’ve cried/I have failed and I’ve tried/Sunshine, pouring rain/I’ve found joy through all my pain/I just want to be/Happy being me.” This song has been inspirational to me on more than one occasion. Will always be one of my favorite songs.
1. “Triumph” – Wu-Tang Clan
The Wu’s back!!! Four years after releasing my favorite album ever made, the whole Clan was back together for 1997’s double LP, Wu-Tang Forever. And to commemorate the event, Wu kicked the damn door down with this first single. Every MC flexes his muscles on this track (with the exception of Ol’ Dirty, who does the intro and the break). Inspectah Deck’s verse to open the track is an all-time hip-hop quotable and one of the greatest verses you’ll find. “I bomb atomically/Socrates philosophies/And high prophecies/Can’t define how I be dropping these/Mockeries/Lyrically perform armed robbery/Flee with the lottery/Possibly they spotted me…” WHAT?! That’s untouchable. The beat was of course on point, the lyrics were top notch and it was so damn refreshing to hear the whole Wu together on a track again. Oh, and the video with the Wu as Super Heroes remains one of the freshest hip-hop videos in history.
Best Albums
10. Stone Crazy – The Beatnuts
This could’ve been a great album, but for whatever reason, the ‘Nuts decided to sprinkle in a bunch of interludes turning a 17-track album into 12 songs and 5 pointless breaks. I just can’t stand interludes or skits or anything like that. As for the good, it had plenty. Not only did this album contain “Do You Believe?” it also brought us “Off The Books,” the tremendous collaboration with Cuban Link and Big Punisher. “You better watch your step!”
9. The War Report – Capone-N-Noreaga
In a time of flashy videos, shiny suits and ‘80’s samples, this brought true hardcore, street hip-hop back to the East Coast. This was grimy as can be. Tragedy Khadafi was the unofficial third member on this one, and helped CNN put together a fantastic debut album. Lots of great tracks on this one, but my favorite is “Bloody Money.”
8. Jewelz – O.C.
Excellent effort from O.C. on this one. From collaborations with Big L (“Dangerous”), Organized Konfusion (“War Games”), Freddie Foxxx (“Win The G,” and “M.U.G.”), to great production from DJ Premier (“My World”), Buckwild, Da Beatminerz, Showbiz and Lord Finesse, this album is all you can ask for from underground hip-hop. And O.C. doesn’t get by with great producers or guest spots, he more than holds his own on the mic. One of the most underrated MCs to ever to do it.
7. In My Lifetime Vol. 1 – Jay-Z
Tough year for Hov, as he was coming off the classic Reasonable Doubt, and dealing with the aforementioned shiny suit era. Jay missed the mark on “The City Is Mine,” “I Know What Girls Like” and “(Always Be My) Sunshine,” all of which are among the most forgettable songs of his career, and all of which made Reasonable Doubt fans mad as hell. But this album wasn’t a failure, despite those misfires. Jay still brought some great tracks with “Streets Is Watching,” “Lucky Me,” “Who You Wit II,” “Where I’m From,” and “You Must Love Me.” For most artists, this album would’ve been the highlight of their career. For Hov, it’s towards the bottom of his catalog.
6. I Got Next – KRS-One
This is my favorite KRS solo effort. Lots of quality songs on this one. Great collaborations with Redman on “Blowe” and “Heartbeat,” which also featured a verse from Angie Martinez. KRS definitely brought a taste of old school hip-hop on the album, as “Step Into A World,” and “Heartbeat” has that old boom bap feel to them. My other favorites were “The MC” and “A Friend.”
5. Da Dirty 30 – CRU
30 tracks long, this could’ve been trimmed to 20 songs (again, get rid of the DAMN skits, they’re pointless!!!) But it had so much good music on it. Like the B.U.M.S., I would’ve liked to see CRU put out some more music. Great guest spots on this one included Slick Rick, Black Rob, Ras Kass and the LOX. I heard several of these songs on a promo mixtape from Def Jam that I got before the album dropped and knew the album had the potential to be a good one. Da Dirty 30 lived up to my hopes for it.
4. One Day It’ll All Make Sense – Common
So many great tracks on this album and my first true digestion of Common’s music (I got this before I owned Resurrection). I got this album, as well as The Firm CD, on my birthday and while I was much more excited for The Firm album, Common blew that album out of the water. “G.O.D.” was my No. 2 song from ’97, but “Real N-gga Quots,” “Retrospect For Life” (featuring Lauryn Hill), and “Food Funk” are all deserving of being on the Top 20 list. The “Stolen Moments” trilogy is exceptional storytelling and it was fresh to hear Common exchange verses with Canibus on “Making A Name For Ourselves,” in a true showcase of lyricism.
3. The Carnival – Wyclef Jean
I loved, loved, LOVED this album when it first came out. I listened to this all the damn time. It was the perfect follow up to The Score. While still great, I haven’t reached for the album in a while. It just hasn’t had the same replay value as some of the other great albums of the ‘90’s. I already discussed the “Guantanamera” cover, but this also featured the Bee-Gees sampled “We Trying To Stay Alive” featuring Pras & John Forte, “Bubblegoose,” “Gone Till November,” “Street Jeopardy,” and the excellent “Gunpowder.”
2. Wu-Tang Forever – The Wu-Tang Clan
It couldn’t be 36 Chambers, and I knew that going into it, but to this day I’m convinced that if this were a single disc it would be a classic along the lines of the Clan’s debut album. But the Wu still brought it on this double disc and given their buzz at the time, I can’t blame them for striking while the iron was hot. For arguments sake, if I were to break this down into a 12-song single album (much like 36 Chambers), here’s what it would look like: 1. Reunited; 2. For Heaven’s Sake; 3. Cash Still Rules/Scary Hours; 4. Visionz; 5. A Better Tomorrow; 6. It’s Yourz; 7. Triumph; 8. The City; 9. The Projects; 10. Bells of War; 11. Dog Shit; 12. Heaterz. But that would mean we’d never hear “As High As Wu-Tang Get,” “Impossible,” “Deadly Melody,” “Duck Seazon,” etc., etc., etc. So bottom line is, it’s still a great album and in hindsight I’m glad the Wu gave us 2 discs worth of dope music.
1. Life After Death – The Notorious B.I.G.
Was there really any doubt? And while Wu-Tang Forever could have been made a single disc, I’m not so sure Life After Death would’ve had the same effect as a single disc. That’s not to say that some tracks aren’t better than others, but with Biggie’s murder shortly before the album dropped, we wanted all the Biggie music we could possibly get our hands on. And given how posthumous albums are usually handled, I’d be afraid of what some of these songs would’ve become if they were released after the fact with whatever rapper was hot at the time added to the song. This album had everything you could want from commercial, party songs (“Hypnotize,” “Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems”), to songs for the ladies (“F-ck You Tonight”), great storytelling (“N-ggaz Bleed,” “I Got A Story To Tell,”), top of the line lyricism (“Ten Crack Commandments,” “Kick In The Door”), big name collaborations (Jay-Z, Bone Thugs, R. Kelly, Lil’ Kim, Too $hort) and production from everyone from DJ Premier to RZA, The Hitmen, Buckwild and Easy Mo Bee. This album will always take on different meaning because of the timing of the release to his death, but even if they had happened years apart, Life After Death would still be among the great hip-hop albums ever made.
So that puts a wrap on 1997. It certainly had some highlights, but the sound wasn’t the same that year. I’ve made “Best of” playlists for every year from 1991 to the present and I don’t go to the Best of ’97 nearly as much as the others. Still fun to look back on it though.
‘98’s next and it includes two classic albums, one big debut and my favorite albums from two legendary groups. Stay tuned.
Best of 1997
Best Songs
20. “The Theme (It’s Party Time)” – Tracey Lee
Philly’s own Tracey Lee made his debut with this party anthem. Tracey Lee released a solid debut with Many Facez, taking on various personalities to drop different styles. A cool concept which produced mixed results. This track, as well as the Biggie collaboration “Keep Your Hands High,” are the true standouts on the album.
19. “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See” – Busta Rhymes
A great song with an even better video. Busta rhymed along with an elephant, had people doing tribal dances with neon paint in black lights, the whole thing was crazy good. The beat on this track is minimal, but fantastic and Busta made the phrase, “What the dilly-o?” a household phrase used everywhere, including an episode of The Simpsons.
18. “Wild For The Night” – Rampage feat. Busta Rhymes
Busta’s Flipmode partner released his solo debut in 1997 and this was the first single. Coming three years after Rampage’s “Beware of the Rampsack” single, which was my initial exposure to the Last Boy Scout, this track was hard hitting and Busta wylin’ out on the hook was terrific.
17. “Phone Tap” – The Firm
In theory, the Firm should’ve been one of the best hip-hop albums. Nas, AZ, Foxy Brown, and Nature rapping over Dre beats? How could that go wrong? Unfortunately supergroups rarely work. Not that the Firm album was awful, it just fell a little short. “Phone Tap,” however, did not. It was a great concept and executed wonderfully. The production on this track was terrific as well.
16. “Pronto” - CRU
What ever happened to CRU? They released a really dope debut album in 1997 and then just fell off the face of the Earth. This was the best song off their only album and it was a head nodder. Yogi brought some great lines on this one, while the Mighty Ha’s gruff voice really made the hook.
15. “Where I’m From” – Jay-Z
“Cough up a lung/Where I’m from/Marcy, son/Ain’t nuthin’ nice.” This beat was sinister. This was the hardest track on the In My Lifetime Vol. 1 and the closest thing to Reasonable Doubt. I liked Jay’s second album, it wasn’t a classic, but it had some nice songs. This was the best of the bunch.
14. “Jungle Brother” – Jungle Brothers
Loved this song when it came out. The beat has so much energy to it and Mike Gee and Baby Bam sound really fresh on it. This track takes me back every time I hear it. A lot of positive lyrics here like, “Now if I worry too much about all my have nots/I might not recognize just what I’ve got.”
13. “Luchini” – Camp Lo
Some old ‘70’s soul sounding hip-hop here. Camp Lo brought a vintage sound and vintage style to hip-hop. Glad to see that they’ve made a bit of comeback here in 2011. Their debut, Uptown Saturday Night, was chock full of dope cuts, none better than this one. This is it, what!
12. “Victory” – Puff Daddy feat. The Notorious B.I.G. & Busta Rhymes
This track dropped shortly after Biggie passed and had us all thankful to hear Big’s voice again. An incredible song with the Rocky-sampled beat and Busta on the hook, Puff pushed all the right buttons with this one.
11. “Step Into A World (Rapture’s Delight)” – KRS-One
Some all-time greats made quite an impact in 1997, as KRS, Rakim and EPMD all released albums. Of the three, I liked KRS’s album the most thanks to songs like this one. A great throwback to some old school boom-bap hip-hop, KRS destroyed this track.
10. “Da Joint” – EPMD
As I said above, great to have some legends putting out new material in ’97. I heard “Never Seen Before” on the How To Be A Player soundtrack and loved it. Then this song dropped as the second single off Back In Business and it was all over. The beat on this is one of my favorites from the year.
9. “Guantanamera” – Wyclef Jean feat. Lauryn Hill
Wyclef’s take on Cuba’s most famous song and he flipped it into a really dope hip-hop song. The beat is sick, ‘Clef does a nice job with the vocals and Lauryn Hill kills it with her guest spot.
8. “Dangerous” – O.C. feat. Big L
Two of D.I.T.C.’s finest and my two favorite MCs from the crew got together for this joint and ripped it apart. Mr. Walt on the beat for a vintage hip-hop sound. Both MCs are ridiculous on this one, but Big L got me to go “Oh Shit!” the first time I heard it.
7. “Soul In The Hole” – Wu-Tang All-Stars
Taken from the soundtrack for the film of the same name, this track was nasty. Super dope beat. It’s hard as hell. Shyheim drops the illest verse on the track, “I know n-ggas liver than Allen Iverson/Take it to the hole and roll it in/Triple-doublin’/Suicide drills get your calves built/Crossovers ill…”
6. “Notorious Thugs” – The Notorious B.I.G. feat. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
Didn’t know which song to pick off Life After Death. Contemplated “Kick In The Door,” “I Got A Story To Tell,” and “Ten Crack Commandments,” but then I remembered my reaction the very first time I heard “Notorious Thugs,” ….HOLY SHIT!!! Biggie just out did Bone using their own rhyme style. And remember Bone was huge back then. Biggie brought a lot more guests for the album, but no collaboration stood out as much as this. I still love this track to this day, so I’m giving it the nod over the other three.
5. “Guess Who’s Back?” – Rakim
Already discussed KRS-One and EPMD’s contributions to ’97, but neither of them got me as amped as Rakim’s return single. The beat on this one is straight up bonkers and Rakim shows why he’s the God MC. Even though his most influential work had happened a decade before, the 18th Letter brought his style into the late ‘90’s and sounded as dope as ever.
4. “Do You Believe?” – The Beatnuts
This is some hard hitting shit right here. The beat on this is one of the Beatnuts’ finest. Juju opens the song in fine fashion dropping, “It’s ill when I’m heated how my heart stay cold.” So mean. It’s phenomenal. Love the hook on this track as well. “Do you believe in God?/You do, tell him to save you.”
3. “Tried By 12” – East Flatbush Project
I was about to write how “Do You Believe?” was the meanest song on this list. Not so. This is one of the most in your face, raw, sinister and incredible tracks you’ll find. This is the best beat of ’97, hands down. And the hook on this is just sinister, “I’ll sign my name in the book at your funeral.”
2. “G.O.D.” – Common feat. Cee-Lo
This is the polar opposite of “Tried By 12.” One of the most introspective and thought provoking hip-hop songs ever recorded as Common and Cee-Lo both take turns breaking down one of the least talked about topics in hip-hop music: Religion. Common’s verse is incredible. I love the piano on this track and Cee-Lo signing on the hook was a goose bump moment the first time I heard it. “I’ve lived and I’ve learned/I have taken and I’ve earned/I have laughed and I’ve cried/I have failed and I’ve tried/Sunshine, pouring rain/I’ve found joy through all my pain/I just want to be/Happy being me.” This song has been inspirational to me on more than one occasion. Will always be one of my favorite songs.
1. “Triumph” – Wu-Tang Clan
The Wu’s back!!! Four years after releasing my favorite album ever made, the whole Clan was back together for 1997’s double LP, Wu-Tang Forever. And to commemorate the event, Wu kicked the damn door down with this first single. Every MC flexes his muscles on this track (with the exception of Ol’ Dirty, who does the intro and the break). Inspectah Deck’s verse to open the track is an all-time hip-hop quotable and one of the greatest verses you’ll find. “I bomb atomically/Socrates philosophies/And high prophecies/Can’t define how I be dropping these/Mockeries/Lyrically perform armed robbery/Flee with the lottery/Possibly they spotted me…” WHAT?! That’s untouchable. The beat was of course on point, the lyrics were top notch and it was so damn refreshing to hear the whole Wu together on a track again. Oh, and the video with the Wu as Super Heroes remains one of the freshest hip-hop videos in history.
Best Albums
10. Stone Crazy – The Beatnuts
This could’ve been a great album, but for whatever reason, the ‘Nuts decided to sprinkle in a bunch of interludes turning a 17-track album into 12 songs and 5 pointless breaks. I just can’t stand interludes or skits or anything like that. As for the good, it had plenty. Not only did this album contain “Do You Believe?” it also brought us “Off The Books,” the tremendous collaboration with Cuban Link and Big Punisher. “You better watch your step!”
9. The War Report – Capone-N-Noreaga
In a time of flashy videos, shiny suits and ‘80’s samples, this brought true hardcore, street hip-hop back to the East Coast. This was grimy as can be. Tragedy Khadafi was the unofficial third member on this one, and helped CNN put together a fantastic debut album. Lots of great tracks on this one, but my favorite is “Bloody Money.”
8. Jewelz – O.C.
Excellent effort from O.C. on this one. From collaborations with Big L (“Dangerous”), Organized Konfusion (“War Games”), Freddie Foxxx (“Win The G,” and “M.U.G.”), to great production from DJ Premier (“My World”), Buckwild, Da Beatminerz, Showbiz and Lord Finesse, this album is all you can ask for from underground hip-hop. And O.C. doesn’t get by with great producers or guest spots, he more than holds his own on the mic. One of the most underrated MCs to ever to do it.
7. In My Lifetime Vol. 1 – Jay-Z
Tough year for Hov, as he was coming off the classic Reasonable Doubt, and dealing with the aforementioned shiny suit era. Jay missed the mark on “The City Is Mine,” “I Know What Girls Like” and “(Always Be My) Sunshine,” all of which are among the most forgettable songs of his career, and all of which made Reasonable Doubt fans mad as hell. But this album wasn’t a failure, despite those misfires. Jay still brought some great tracks with “Streets Is Watching,” “Lucky Me,” “Who You Wit II,” “Where I’m From,” and “You Must Love Me.” For most artists, this album would’ve been the highlight of their career. For Hov, it’s towards the bottom of his catalog.
6. I Got Next – KRS-One
This is my favorite KRS solo effort. Lots of quality songs on this one. Great collaborations with Redman on “Blowe” and “Heartbeat,” which also featured a verse from Angie Martinez. KRS definitely brought a taste of old school hip-hop on the album, as “Step Into A World,” and “Heartbeat” has that old boom bap feel to them. My other favorites were “The MC” and “A Friend.”
5. Da Dirty 30 – CRU
30 tracks long, this could’ve been trimmed to 20 songs (again, get rid of the DAMN skits, they’re pointless!!!) But it had so much good music on it. Like the B.U.M.S., I would’ve liked to see CRU put out some more music. Great guest spots on this one included Slick Rick, Black Rob, Ras Kass and the LOX. I heard several of these songs on a promo mixtape from Def Jam that I got before the album dropped and knew the album had the potential to be a good one. Da Dirty 30 lived up to my hopes for it.
4. One Day It’ll All Make Sense – Common
So many great tracks on this album and my first true digestion of Common’s music (I got this before I owned Resurrection). I got this album, as well as The Firm CD, on my birthday and while I was much more excited for The Firm album, Common blew that album out of the water. “G.O.D.” was my No. 2 song from ’97, but “Real N-gga Quots,” “Retrospect For Life” (featuring Lauryn Hill), and “Food Funk” are all deserving of being on the Top 20 list. The “Stolen Moments” trilogy is exceptional storytelling and it was fresh to hear Common exchange verses with Canibus on “Making A Name For Ourselves,” in a true showcase of lyricism.
3. The Carnival – Wyclef Jean
I loved, loved, LOVED this album when it first came out. I listened to this all the damn time. It was the perfect follow up to The Score. While still great, I haven’t reached for the album in a while. It just hasn’t had the same replay value as some of the other great albums of the ‘90’s. I already discussed the “Guantanamera” cover, but this also featured the Bee-Gees sampled “We Trying To Stay Alive” featuring Pras & John Forte, “Bubblegoose,” “Gone Till November,” “Street Jeopardy,” and the excellent “Gunpowder.”
2. Wu-Tang Forever – The Wu-Tang Clan
It couldn’t be 36 Chambers, and I knew that going into it, but to this day I’m convinced that if this were a single disc it would be a classic along the lines of the Clan’s debut album. But the Wu still brought it on this double disc and given their buzz at the time, I can’t blame them for striking while the iron was hot. For arguments sake, if I were to break this down into a 12-song single album (much like 36 Chambers), here’s what it would look like: 1. Reunited; 2. For Heaven’s Sake; 3. Cash Still Rules/Scary Hours; 4. Visionz; 5. A Better Tomorrow; 6. It’s Yourz; 7. Triumph; 8. The City; 9. The Projects; 10. Bells of War; 11. Dog Shit; 12. Heaterz. But that would mean we’d never hear “As High As Wu-Tang Get,” “Impossible,” “Deadly Melody,” “Duck Seazon,” etc., etc., etc. So bottom line is, it’s still a great album and in hindsight I’m glad the Wu gave us 2 discs worth of dope music.
1. Life After Death – The Notorious B.I.G.
Was there really any doubt? And while Wu-Tang Forever could have been made a single disc, I’m not so sure Life After Death would’ve had the same effect as a single disc. That’s not to say that some tracks aren’t better than others, but with Biggie’s murder shortly before the album dropped, we wanted all the Biggie music we could possibly get our hands on. And given how posthumous albums are usually handled, I’d be afraid of what some of these songs would’ve become if they were released after the fact with whatever rapper was hot at the time added to the song. This album had everything you could want from commercial, party songs (“Hypnotize,” “Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems”), to songs for the ladies (“F-ck You Tonight”), great storytelling (“N-ggaz Bleed,” “I Got A Story To Tell,”), top of the line lyricism (“Ten Crack Commandments,” “Kick In The Door”), big name collaborations (Jay-Z, Bone Thugs, R. Kelly, Lil’ Kim, Too $hort) and production from everyone from DJ Premier to RZA, The Hitmen, Buckwild and Easy Mo Bee. This album will always take on different meaning because of the timing of the release to his death, but even if they had happened years apart, Life After Death would still be among the great hip-hop albums ever made.
So that puts a wrap on 1997. It certainly had some highlights, but the sound wasn’t the same that year. I’ve made “Best of” playlists for every year from 1991 to the present and I don’t go to the Best of ’97 nearly as much as the others. Still fun to look back on it though.
‘98’s next and it includes two classic albums, one big debut and my favorite albums from two legendary groups. Stay tuned.
Song of the Day
Raekwon - "Snake Pond"
This song is just so ill. The kung-fu sample at the beginning is vintage Wu and the beat by Selasi is fantastic. Sounds like something you'd hear in a Saturday morning kung-fu flick. And Rae brings some vivid imagery with his lyrics on this one. I listened to Shaolin vs. Wu-Tang 3 or 4 times in a row when it dropped earlier this year, but haven't gone back since. That's on my to do list after hearing this track again.
This song is just so ill. The kung-fu sample at the beginning is vintage Wu and the beat by Selasi is fantastic. Sounds like something you'd hear in a Saturday morning kung-fu flick. And Rae brings some vivid imagery with his lyrics on this one. I listened to Shaolin vs. Wu-Tang 3 or 4 times in a row when it dropped earlier this year, but haven't gone back since. That's on my to do list after hearing this track again.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Song of the Day
The Black Eyed Peas - "BEP Empire"
The percentage of people who don't know this BEP & DJ Premier collaboration exists is probably staggering. But yes, there was a time (two albums worth of material actually) when there was no Fergie in the Black Eyed Peas and the group was putting out underground hip-hop. The Peas were b-boys, breakin' on Rap City and putting out fantastic videos like this one. Their second album, Bridging The Gap, had this track, as well as collabos with Chali 2na, De La Soul and Mos Def. They used to be straight hip-hop, no pop. I'm not going to hate on the Peas now, because how many people would turn down the opportunity to go from backpacker to superstar. It's really a no brainer. But their music was so much fresher back on Behind The Front ("Fallin' Up" was my shit back in '98) & Bridging The Gap.
The percentage of people who don't know this BEP & DJ Premier collaboration exists is probably staggering. But yes, there was a time (two albums worth of material actually) when there was no Fergie in the Black Eyed Peas and the group was putting out underground hip-hop. The Peas were b-boys, breakin' on Rap City and putting out fantastic videos like this one. Their second album, Bridging The Gap, had this track, as well as collabos with Chali 2na, De La Soul and Mos Def. They used to be straight hip-hop, no pop. I'm not going to hate on the Peas now, because how many people would turn down the opportunity to go from backpacker to superstar. It's really a no brainer. But their music was so much fresher back on Behind The Front ("Fallin' Up" was my shit back in '98) & Bridging The Gap.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Song of the Day
Big K.R.I.T. - "Dreamin'"
I like K.R.I.T., but wish he would do more introspective tracks like this. I don't care for all his music, some of it is the typical, Southern shit that I'm just not enthusiastic about. But this right here is dope! Great soul sample, laid back beat and K.R.I.T. gets lyrical over it. Hope he focuses more on tracks like this and "If I Should Die."
I like K.R.I.T., but wish he would do more introspective tracks like this. I don't care for all his music, some of it is the typical, Southern shit that I'm just not enthusiastic about. But this right here is dope! Great soul sample, laid back beat and K.R.I.T. gets lyrical over it. Hope he focuses more on tracks like this and "If I Should Die."
Monday, April 25, 2011
Song of the Day
Kanye West feat. Mos Def & Freeway - "Two Words"
Saw this on Mos Def's facebook page today. Had to click on the link and listen to this gem again. Haven't heard it in a while. Kanye has delivered on album after album, but this immediately made me want to go back and listen to College Dropout. A true hip-hop classic.
Saw this on Mos Def's facebook page today. Had to click on the link and listen to this gem again. Haven't heard it in a while. Kanye has delivered on album after album, but this immediately made me want to go back and listen to College Dropout. A true hip-hop classic.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Song of the Day
A Tribe Called Quest - "The Hop"
Happy Easter everybody! Here's a little laid back Tribe track from Beats, Rhymes & Life. Not a holiday song, but you get the tie-in. Corny? Maybe. But that's just me. Song's dope regardless.
Happy Easter everybody! Here's a little laid back Tribe track from Beats, Rhymes & Life. Not a holiday song, but you get the tie-in. Corny? Maybe. But that's just me. Song's dope regardless.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Song of the Day
Mos Def - "Umi Says"
I have no idea why this song popped in my head right now, but I'm glad it did. Mos Def's debut album was absolutely tremendous and this track is just so soulful. He brought it all on that album, but there's nothing as mellow as this joint. I used to play this on my college radio show. I'm sure no one knew what the hell it was at the time, but I wish radio stations nationwide would play more songs like "Umi Says."
I have no idea why this song popped in my head right now, but I'm glad it did. Mos Def's debut album was absolutely tremendous and this track is just so soulful. He brought it all on that album, but there's nothing as mellow as this joint. I used to play this on my college radio show. I'm sure no one knew what the hell it was at the time, but I wish radio stations nationwide would play more songs like "Umi Says."
Friday, April 22, 2011
Song of the Day
Celph Titled & Buckwild feat. Apathy, Ryu & Esoteric - "Swashbuckling"
Loved the concept on Nineteen Ninety Now. This sounds like the 2010 version of Gang Starr's "Speak Ya Clout." So dope. Great intro from Juice. And Ap resurrects the soul of Big L on the first verse. This is what hip-hop should always sound like.
Loved the concept on Nineteen Ninety Now. This sounds like the 2010 version of Gang Starr's "Speak Ya Clout." So dope. Great intro from Juice. And Ap resurrects the soul of Big L on the first verse. This is what hip-hop should always sound like.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Gifted Unlimited Rhymes Universal
I’m late on this one, but it’s too important to gloss over, as April 19th marked the 1-year anniversary of the death of Guru. One of the most identifiable voices in hip-hop history, and one half of the Hall of Fame group Gang Starr, Guru along with DJ Premier, brought great hip-hop to us for over 15 years. While Premo continues to build on his legacy, we are left to remember and enjoy the career’s worth of fantastic music Guru left us.
Not only did Guru give us six albums worth of Gang Starr material, he also released four installments of his terrific Jazzmatazz series, a fusion of hip-hop and jazz music, as well as several other solo endeavors. Gang Starr helped introduce us to Jeru The Damaja, Big Shug and Group Home, and had dozens of outstanding collaborations with acts like M.O.P., Nice & Smooth, Freddie Foxxx, Jadakiss, Fat Joe and Inspectah Deck.
1994’s Hard To Earn marked my first real listening interest in Gang Starr, as No More Mr. Nice Guy (1989), Step In The Arena (1991) and Daily Operation (1992) offered me a glimpse, but I didn’t pay as much attention when those albums were released. Call it youthful ignorance.
Guru and Premier kept elevating their game, as 1998’s Moment of Truth remains my favorite Gang Starr album. And all though their final group album hit shelves eight years ago, there’s no denying Gang Starr’s influence on hip-hop to this day.
R.I.P. Guru, one of hip-hop's finest.
And now, your 20-song Guru playlist:
20. Keep Your Worries (feat. Angie Stone)
19. Trust Me (feat. N’Dea Davenport)
18. No More Mr. Nice Guy
17. Take It Personal
16. Step In The Arena
15. Who Got Gunz (feat. Fat Joe & M.O.P.)
14. Suckas Need Bodyguards
13. Moment of Truth
12. 1/2 & 1/2 (feat. M.O.P.)
11. Just To Get A Rep
10. Skills
9. Royalty (feat. K-Ci & Jo-Jo)
8. Ex-Girl To the Next Girl
7. The Militia (feat. Big Shug & Freddie Foxxx)
6. Mass Appeal
5. Rite Where U Stand (feat. Jadakiss)
4. Full Clip
3. DWYCK (feat. Nice & Smooth)
2. You Know My Steez
1. Code of the Streets
As as special bonus, I’m throwing one more track in there. This is the Song of the Day, “Work,” from ‘98’s Moment of Truth. Thought it was appropriate since it’s my day off!
Not only did Guru give us six albums worth of Gang Starr material, he also released four installments of his terrific Jazzmatazz series, a fusion of hip-hop and jazz music, as well as several other solo endeavors. Gang Starr helped introduce us to Jeru The Damaja, Big Shug and Group Home, and had dozens of outstanding collaborations with acts like M.O.P., Nice & Smooth, Freddie Foxxx, Jadakiss, Fat Joe and Inspectah Deck.
1994’s Hard To Earn marked my first real listening interest in Gang Starr, as No More Mr. Nice Guy (1989), Step In The Arena (1991) and Daily Operation (1992) offered me a glimpse, but I didn’t pay as much attention when those albums were released. Call it youthful ignorance.
Guru and Premier kept elevating their game, as 1998’s Moment of Truth remains my favorite Gang Starr album. And all though their final group album hit shelves eight years ago, there’s no denying Gang Starr’s influence on hip-hop to this day.
R.I.P. Guru, one of hip-hop's finest.
And now, your 20-song Guru playlist:
20. Keep Your Worries (feat. Angie Stone)
19. Trust Me (feat. N’Dea Davenport)
18. No More Mr. Nice Guy
17. Take It Personal
16. Step In The Arena
15. Who Got Gunz (feat. Fat Joe & M.O.P.)
14. Suckas Need Bodyguards
13. Moment of Truth
12. 1/2 & 1/2 (feat. M.O.P.)
11. Just To Get A Rep
10. Skills
9. Royalty (feat. K-Ci & Jo-Jo)
8. Ex-Girl To the Next Girl
7. The Militia (feat. Big Shug & Freddie Foxxx)
6. Mass Appeal
5. Rite Where U Stand (feat. Jadakiss)
4. Full Clip
3. DWYCK (feat. Nice & Smooth)
2. You Know My Steez
1. Code of the Streets
As as special bonus, I’m throwing one more track in there. This is the Song of the Day, “Work,” from ‘98’s Moment of Truth. Thought it was appropriate since it’s my day off!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Song of the Day
MED feat. Blu - "This Is Your Life"
This is just so soulful. It starts as an instrumental as MED's vocals don't kick in until 1:03 into the song, which allows Exile to show off his production talents. I need to find more Exile produced tracks, because he does no wrong from what I've heard. MED delivers a nice verse and finishes by saying, "F rap, I've been bumping Stevie Wonder all summer time." Blu then comes through and brings more fire. Blu is as nice as they come. I'm way behind on his catalog and have some serious catching up to do this spring.
This is just so soulful. It starts as an instrumental as MED's vocals don't kick in until 1:03 into the song, which allows Exile to show off his production talents. I need to find more Exile produced tracks, because he does no wrong from what I've heard. MED delivers a nice verse and finishes by saying, "F rap, I've been bumping Stevie Wonder all summer time." Blu then comes through and brings more fire. Blu is as nice as they come. I'm way behind on his catalog and have some serious catching up to do this spring.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Album Review: Atmosphere - The Family Sign
Atmosphere has been making real life, every man music for years now. And as the years have passed, the music has gotten more mature which is certainly true on their latest, The Family Sign. Slug and Ant bring their most polished and sophisticated music yet. And they don’t do it alone. Thanks to the help of Nate Collis on guitar and Erick Anderson on the keys, Atmosphere delivers what the label calls the groups’ “most personal and intimate album yet.”
The album kicks off with “My Key” which shows off the groups newest members immediately. Anderson’s keys open the album in grand fashion and then Collis joins the fray with a bluesy guitar riff to go with Ant’s snare and kick drum. This is music in every sense of the word. Of course the finishing touch is Slug who is as sharp as ever on this album.
The musical soundscapes are gripping especially on “The Last To Say,” “Became,” “Who I’ll Never Be” and “Something So.” The instruments are as big a standout on this effort as Slug and perhaps more so as we’re used to hearing great stories from Slug but never over music this advanced. The acoustic guitar drives “Who I’ll Never Be,” and the guitar on “Something So” takes you to another place. Every time I listen to it I think it would be perfect for a movie as the song slowly builds and becomes more and more climactic. Slug says, “They tell me that I’m not qualified to lend my voice to something so beautiful.” On the contrary. This is fantastic music.
And while the instruments bring a fresh sound, Ant’s production remains consistently excellent as do Slug’s lyrics. Slug goes into full story telling mode on “Became,” “Who I’ll Never Be,” “Your Name Here” and “If You Can Save Me.” “Became” paints an amazing picture as Slug goes searching through the woods for a friend who he believes was hunted down by wolves. The picture he paints with the lyrics are extremely vivid as the listener feels like they can feel the cold snow on their feet as they follow the footprints into the woods.
“If You Can Save Me,” is the aftermath of an auto accident, where Slug is lying on his back looking into the sky taking in the sounds around him and slowly slipping into death, only to be saved by “an angel in a firefighter uniform.” “Your Name Here” finds Slug running into an old friend and having the awkward conversation we’ve all had with former aquaintances years later.
Of course this wouldn’t be an Atmosphere album without a look at relationships. The lead single, “Just For Show,” finds Slug mocking his girl for saying she’s going to leave, but calling her bluff as their relationship continues to deteriorate. That’s followed by “She’s Enough” where Slug promises to do anything in his power to make his girl happy because quite simply she’s enough and that’s as good a reason as any.
The most powerful song on the album is “The Last To Say,” which finds Slug begging his friend to leave her abusive relationship before it’s too late. The imagery is chilling as Slug describes a family history of domestic abuse. He finishes by saying “Just tear it all apart and build new/Because if you don’t kill him, he’s going to kill you/You can’t hold hands when they make fists/And I ain’t the first to say this.” The song pulls on your heartstrings as it deals with a very serious issue that too many people are too scared to talk about.
All in all, this is a terrific effort from Atmosphere. However it’s not without a few missteps. “Bad Bad Daddy,” and “Ain’t Nobody” don’t keep up with the quality of the rest of the album. And “Just For Show” and “She’s Enough” are fine, but don’t necessarily bring anything new to the table either. I would rank this one ahead of Seven’s Travels and well above Overcast, but not above the Lucy Ford EPs, God Loves Ugly, You Can’t Imagine How Much Fun We’re Having or When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold.
The Family Sign is worthy of adding to the collection and it certainly grew on me the more I listened to it.
Final Grade: B+
The album kicks off with “My Key” which shows off the groups newest members immediately. Anderson’s keys open the album in grand fashion and then Collis joins the fray with a bluesy guitar riff to go with Ant’s snare and kick drum. This is music in every sense of the word. Of course the finishing touch is Slug who is as sharp as ever on this album.
The musical soundscapes are gripping especially on “The Last To Say,” “Became,” “Who I’ll Never Be” and “Something So.” The instruments are as big a standout on this effort as Slug and perhaps more so as we’re used to hearing great stories from Slug but never over music this advanced. The acoustic guitar drives “Who I’ll Never Be,” and the guitar on “Something So” takes you to another place. Every time I listen to it I think it would be perfect for a movie as the song slowly builds and becomes more and more climactic. Slug says, “They tell me that I’m not qualified to lend my voice to something so beautiful.” On the contrary. This is fantastic music.
And while the instruments bring a fresh sound, Ant’s production remains consistently excellent as do Slug’s lyrics. Slug goes into full story telling mode on “Became,” “Who I’ll Never Be,” “Your Name Here” and “If You Can Save Me.” “Became” paints an amazing picture as Slug goes searching through the woods for a friend who he believes was hunted down by wolves. The picture he paints with the lyrics are extremely vivid as the listener feels like they can feel the cold snow on their feet as they follow the footprints into the woods.
“If You Can Save Me,” is the aftermath of an auto accident, where Slug is lying on his back looking into the sky taking in the sounds around him and slowly slipping into death, only to be saved by “an angel in a firefighter uniform.” “Your Name Here” finds Slug running into an old friend and having the awkward conversation we’ve all had with former aquaintances years later.
Of course this wouldn’t be an Atmosphere album without a look at relationships. The lead single, “Just For Show,” finds Slug mocking his girl for saying she’s going to leave, but calling her bluff as their relationship continues to deteriorate. That’s followed by “She’s Enough” where Slug promises to do anything in his power to make his girl happy because quite simply she’s enough and that’s as good a reason as any.
The most powerful song on the album is “The Last To Say,” which finds Slug begging his friend to leave her abusive relationship before it’s too late. The imagery is chilling as Slug describes a family history of domestic abuse. He finishes by saying “Just tear it all apart and build new/Because if you don’t kill him, he’s going to kill you/You can’t hold hands when they make fists/And I ain’t the first to say this.” The song pulls on your heartstrings as it deals with a very serious issue that too many people are too scared to talk about.
All in all, this is a terrific effort from Atmosphere. However it’s not without a few missteps. “Bad Bad Daddy,” and “Ain’t Nobody” don’t keep up with the quality of the rest of the album. And “Just For Show” and “She’s Enough” are fine, but don’t necessarily bring anything new to the table either. I would rank this one ahead of Seven’s Travels and well above Overcast, but not above the Lucy Ford EPs, God Loves Ugly, You Can’t Imagine How Much Fun We’re Having or When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold.
The Family Sign is worthy of adding to the collection and it certainly grew on me the more I listened to it.
Final Grade: B+
Song of the Day
Wale - "The Power"
Listened to the More About Nothing mixtape on my way to and from work today. I didn't get much time to really listen and appreciate it last year because I had an overload of new music when I downloaded it. But it's really dope. Love the Seinfeld theme for this and his previous release, Mixtape About Nothing. This track is upbeat and Wale flexes his lyrical talents on this. "I'm ahead of my time like false starters." Nice.
Listened to the More About Nothing mixtape on my way to and from work today. I didn't get much time to really listen and appreciate it last year because I had an overload of new music when I downloaded it. But it's really dope. Love the Seinfeld theme for this and his previous release, Mixtape About Nothing. This track is upbeat and Wale flexes his lyrical talents on this. "I'm ahead of my time like false starters." Nice.
Monday, April 18, 2011
The Best Hip-Hop Songs & Albums: 1996
It’s time for 1996. A huge year right here. My No. 3 all-time album dropped in ’96, Jigga dropped his solo debut, Nas released the highly-anticipated follow-up to Illmatic, another Wu solo classic hit the shelves and one the greatest voices in hip-hop was fully unleashed. There’s love stories, fantastic collaborations, some street shit and two albums from my favorite MC to ever bless the mic.
’96 is one of my favorite years in hip-hop and the songs and albums that didn’t make this list were incredibly hard to leave off. So without further adieu, here’s the Best of 1996.
Best of 1996
Best Songs
20. “Move On” – A+
The fact that a 13-year-old made this track is of itself incredible. The execution is perfect, from the beat (which has been used several times since by other rappers), to the soulful hook and then A+’s storytelling about lost loved ones. Seriously, it sounds like a 30-year-old recounting better days with fallen soldiers, not a freshly teenaged rapper. I love this track to this day.
19. “G.O.D. Pt. III” – Mobb Deep
Great Scarface sample for this track. Every rapper quotes Scarface. But Mobb rapped over the music from the movie. Now that’s gangsta. Mobb Deep always brought that street shit and this was an absolute banger from Hell on Earth.
18. “D’Evils” – Jay-Z
If I wrote this in 1996, I would’ve picked “Can’t Knock The Hustle.” Just a few years ago, I would’ve picked “Feelin’ It.” If I wanted to make the popular choice, I’d go with the Biggie collaboration, “Brooklyn’s Finest.” If I wanted to please “real hip-hop heads” I would’ve picked “Can I Live.” The crazy thing is, they all would be great picks. But I’m going with my true favorite from the album. I loved this song when I first heard it and think it’s just as great now.
17. “1nce Again” – A Tribe Called Quest
Beats , Rhymes & Life had a lot to live up to given Tribe’s track record. And while it wasn’t quite as good as their previous work, the lead single was still excellent. This track featured production from Dilla and was one of the first songs the great producer worked on with Tribe. It features the hook from “Check The Rhime,” as Q-Tip and Phife repeat the “Ya on point” hook.
16. “The Love Song” – Da Bush Babees feat. Mos Def
Da Bush Babees second album, Gravity, was a fantastic release. It featured Q-Tip, as well as an unknown Mos Def. Mos rapped and scatted on “S.O.S.” and also provided the hook for this track. De La Soul’s Posdnuos produced the song and serves up a great beat. This is feel good hip-hop.
15. “Stick To Ya Gunz” – M.O.P. feat. Kool G. Rap
M.O.P. and Kool G. Rap together? Yes please! This song is just mean. The beat is menacing and Lil’ Fame, Billy Danze and G. Rap rip it apart. Danze’s verse is my favorite. “Holding it down it’s the drama Lord/So you riff/You’ll be lift/And laid stiff/As a fuckin’ board.” Damn.
14. “Bow Down” – Westside Connection
During the East Coast-West Coast beef, Ice Cube, Mack 10 & W.C. joined forces to bring us Westside Connection. Although I wasn’t a huge fan of their album, the lead single was tremendous. Ice Cube smacks you in the face with his opening verse. Great West Coast hip-hop anthem.
13. “Stakes Is High” – De La Soul
Loved the production on this joint. No surprise that it was a Dilla beat. Lyrically, this song is brilliant. Dave vented against the current fads like blunts, slang, Versace and commercial hip-hop. While Posdnuos discusses social issues including racism, drug abuse and poverty.
12. “Firewater” – Fat Joe feat. Raekwon, Big Punisher & Armageddon
Everything the Wu touched during this time was gold. Raekwon was the perfect choice to open the song, as well as deliver the hook. The beat is stripped down and raw. Joe was still ferocious back in ’96, as this was well before his Ja Rule, Ashanti, R. Kelly collaborations. Armageddon spits my favorite line, “My body’s 95% alcohol, 5% cancer.” Oh, and this track brought us Big Pun, who steals the show to close out the track.
11. “Clones” – The Roots feat. M.A.R.S. & Dice Raw
Could’ve picked “Concerto of the Desperado” here as well, but there’s just something so dope about “Clones.” The production has an old school feel to it and all four MC’s tear it up. Black Thought sounds really hungry on this track. He remains one of the most underrated MCs to ever do it.
10. “Smoke Buddah” – Redman
Over Rick James’ “Mary Jane,” Red makes another ode to his favorite pastime. The song opens, “Ayo, I got a slight problem, I smoke weed too much/Needs buckle the fuck up when I’m splitting my dutch.” Red is an animated as ever on this one. This was my favorite time period for Redman music, and “Whateva Man” deserves recognition here as well.
9. “Woo Hah” – Busta Rhymes
Busta has now done every type of song, rocked every style, invented new sounds and has taken his music to so many different levels, but this wild-ass style was the Busta sound of the early-to-mid ‘90’s. It wouldn’t have sounded right if Busta didn’t go ape shit on his solo debut. The beat is almost cartoonish and it matched Busta’s personality perfectly.
8. “Renee” – Lost Boyz
I originally heard this song on the Don’t Be A Menace To South Central While Drinking Your Juice In The Hood soundtrack, and I liked it, but didn’t think much more of it. Then they released the album version and it took on a whole new life. The beat became much harder, and while the lyrics remained the same, the story just sounded better over the new backdrop. Great story telling on this track and Mr. Cheeks’ finest effort.
7. “Paparazzi” – Xzibit
This was my introduction to Xzibit. The beat on this track is chilling, as it samples Gabriel Faure’s “Pavane” to perfection. X discusses his disdain for hip-hop artists selling out for fame and spits,“I don’t need no lights, no cameras, just action Goddamnit/Never no superstar, I’m more like a planet.”
6. “Elevators” – Outkast
“Me and you/Your momma and your cousin too.” After hearing this song for the first time, I was singing the hook for the rest of the day. It was so damn catchy. And so damn smooth. Andre’s final verse about rap music being a job and a way to feed his family instead of a glamorous life in the spotlight is a fresh look at what trying to make it in the music industry is really like.
5. “Ready Or Not” – The Fugees
Did anyone see this coming from Lauryn Hill? She blew us all away with her amazing voice in 1996. “Killing Me Softly” was of course her breakout performance and the Fugees most successful record, but she sounds just as amazing on this track. And she combines her showstopping vocals with another dope verse. Seriously, Lauryn could spit as well as anyone. Wish she would still rhyme.
4. “The Message” – Nas
I get excited every time this track begins. The opening bars that Nas spits are ridiculous. Lyrically, this was like a continuation of Illmatic. Nas sounds as good as he has on any track here. The guitar licks are hypnotizing as well. And the “N.Y. State of Mind” sample for the hook was the perfect touch.
3. “Daytona 500” – Ghostface Killah feat. Raekwon & Cappadonna
I first heard this song during a live performance on MTV. The Wu did a small concert, including “Wu-Wear” and “Ice Cream” and then Ghost unveiled this track as the first single off Ironman. I spazzed the first time I heard this. RZA delivered again with a beat that was completely unique. All three MCs are fantastic on this track.
2. “Ambitionz Az A Ridah” – 2Pac
One of the most haunting tracks ever. Pac’s accappella vocals to open the track, then that menacing beat, it just grabs you and doesn’t let go. 2Pac is sharp as ever on this track and you could tell right from the start that All Eyez On Me was going to be magical as this song set the tone for two-discs of some of the best music 2Pac ever created. “I won’t deny ya/I’m a straight ridah/You don’t wanna fuck with me.”
1. “Leflour Leflah Eshkoshka” – Fab 5 (Heltah Skeltah & Originoo Gunn Clappaz)
The illest shit to come out in 1996. This remains one of my favorite hip-hop songs. Classic Boot Camp sound and Rock and Ruck ripped this track apart. I rap along with this song every time it comes on. There’s so many dope lines, it’s ridiculous. Ruck owns it with, “I control the masses/With metaphors that’s massive/Don’t ask if/The n-gga Ruck will bash it like Cassius,” and “So whatcha gonna do?/When you’re stuck at 32/Degrees, please/Get off your knees/And follow these/Now swallow these/Buckshots from the rifle/Then I will make n-ggas beat it and scream like Michael.”
Best Albums
10. Illadelph Halftime – The Roots
Some regard this as The Roots best album. I don’t quite agree with that, but it is great. The Roots stayed true to their sound during a time when a lot of acts were starting to sell out and go the commercial route. The group touched on this in their brilliant video for “What They Do.” Lots of great songs on this disc and excellent cameos from Common, Q-Tip, Bahamadia and D’Angelo among others. My favorite tracks are “Respond/React,” “Push Up Ya Lighter,” “Concerto of the Desperado,” “Clones” and “Ital (The Universal Side).”
9. Firing Squad – M.O.P.
In previous posts on this site, I’ve talked about artists that I didn’t initially like and I have to make a confession that absolutely kills me. The first time I heard M.O.P. was “Rugged Neva Smooth” and I didn’t care for them. I don’t know why. I’m a fan of that song now, but for some reason, back in ’93 when I first heard it, I didn’t like it. I love M.O.P. They are one of my absolute favorite groups of all time. And this is the album that made me a fan. They are as rugged and raw as ever on this album and it includes such standouts as “New Jack City,” “Stick To Ya Gunz,” “Born 2 Kill,” “World Famous,” “Illside of Town,” hell the whole album is dope.
8. Noctural – Heltah Skeltah
Black Moon and Smif-N-Wessun brought us classics in ’93 & ’95 respectively and now it was Ruck & Rock’s turn to carry the torch for the Boot Camp Clik. While Noctural wasn’t quite a classic like Enta Da Stage or Dah Shinin’, it was still a fantastic debut album. Rock has one of my favorite voices in music and Ruck is lyrically as sharp as any member of the BCC. And of course my favorite song of ’96 was on this album. Let the madness begin!
7. Legal Drug Money – Lost Boyz
This was an incredibly dope album, one that I have kind of put on the back burner in recent years. But I listened to this album every day for about 3 weeks straight when it first came out. If I wrote this in 1996, this CD would have an outside shot of finishing among my top 3 albums of the year. “Renee” remains the standout, but there are a ton of great tracks on this album. My other favorites are “The Yearn,” “Jeeps, Lex Coups, Bimaz & Benz,” “Lifestyles of the Rich and Shameless,” “Is This Da Part” and “1, 2, 3,” that had Freaky Tah as the lead lyricist. R.I.P. Freaky Tah.
6. ATLiens – Outkast
After their debut album introduced Outkast as Southern playa’s, they come back on some extraterrestrial shit. This was completely different. Not just from Outkast’s previous music, but from anything in hip-hop. Perhaps a risky move, but it paid off. And as we learned, Outkast was never a group to stick to the same formula. Highlights include “Two Dope Boyz (In A Cadillac),” the title track, “Wheelz of Steel,” “Jazzy Belle,” “Elevators,” and “13th Floor/Growing Old.”
5. The Seven Day Theory – 2Pac
Or Don Killuminati, whatever you prefer. This was 2Pac’s second album to drop in 1996, as he finished recording this shortly before his death. The album was released posthumously, but was still a true Pac release as it didn’t sound dated or altered in any way. 2Pac is downright angry on tracks like “Bomb First” and “Against All Odds.” He also created a follow-up to “California Love” with “To Live & Die in L.A.” The rest of the album touches on a bevy of topics in songs like “Krazy,” “White Man’z World” and “Hold Ya Head.” The album also includes the brilliant “Me and My Girlfriend” which Jay-Z reused for “’03 Bonnie & Clyde.”
4. Ironman – Ghostface Killah
The Wu was relatively quiet in terms of albums in ’96, although they did launch their clothing line and made guest appearances everywhere. But with the one solo album that did come out in ‘96, the Wu produced another gem. I can honestly say Ghost was not among my favorite Wu-Tang members before Ironman dropped, but he won me over. Now, he’s tied with Meth as my favorite Wu MC. And he has definitely put out the best solo work out of them all.
3. Reasonable Doubt – Jay-Z
There’s no denying Reasonable Doubt’s status as a hip-hop classic. Jay-Z made some noise with “Dead Presidents II” and then hit the mainstream with “Ain’t No N-gga,” featuring Foxy Brown. But it is the non-commercial songs that really made this album as great as it is. It features production from DJ Clark Kent, DJ Premier, Irv Gotti, Ski and the Hitmen and it brought us our first Biggie-Jay-Z collaboration with “Brooklyn’s Finest,” which is ridiculously dope. I bought this album the day it came out and listened to the entire thing while sitting on the beach. I became an instant fan.
2. The Score – The Fugees
This album is like a hip-hop variety show. It brought us soul, R&B, reggae, and hip-hop all rolled into one. “Ready or Not,” “Fu-Gee-La,” “Killing Me Softly,” “No Woman, No Cry” all had that vintage sound from classic records that came before them, but the Fugees not only did the originals justice, they made the songs their own. The entire album was flawless and remains one of the most enjoyable and relistenable hip-hop albums to be released.
1. All Eyez On Me – 2Pac
This is the No. 3 album on my all-time list. Two discs worth of 2Pac at his absolute best. Pac made the Best Albums list twice in 1997 and this is a double-disc, meaning he put out 3 discs worth of classic material in one year. Most would lean towards Disc 1 as the stronger of the two, but honestly, I wouldn’t want one without the other. They are the perfect compliment to each other. While it’s true that Disc 1 has the more recognizable songs like “All About U,” “Life Goes On,” “I Ain’t Mad At Cha,” “How Do You Want It?” and “California Love,” Disc 2 has some of the best songs Pac ever made. From the Dre banger “Can’t C Me,” featuring George Clinton, to “Holla At Me,” “Picture Me Rollin’,” the title track and “Run That Streetz,” there is no shortage of great songs from front to back. There is one misstep on the album, the awful “What’z Ya Phone #” but I forgave it when I first heard the album 15 years ago, so I’ll continue to overlook that one hiccup and continue to celebrate this as one of the best hip-hop records ever.
I know I haven’t done this with the other lists, but trimming down the lists for 1996 was really difficult. I had to leave out some great songs and albums, so I’m going to give a quick honorable mention to the following albums: Smoothe The Hustler’s Once Upon A Time In America; Redman’s Muddy Waters; De La Soul’s Stakes Is High; Busta Rhymes’ The Coming; Xzibit’s At The Speed of Life; Eazy-E’s Str8 Off Tha Streetz of Muthaphuckkin’ Compton; Mobb Deep’s Hell on Earth; Nas’ It Was Written; Dr. Octagon's Dr. Octagonecologyst; Da Bush Babees’ Gravity; Jeru the Damaja's Wrath of the Math; and A Tribe Called Quest’s Beats, Rhymes & Life.
Damn, that's a lot of honorable mentions. Probably would've just been easier to make a Top 20 albums list for '96. But wanted to stick to the formula, so there you go.
Up next is ’97 (obviously). Till next time….
’96 is one of my favorite years in hip-hop and the songs and albums that didn’t make this list were incredibly hard to leave off. So without further adieu, here’s the Best of 1996.
Best of 1996
Best Songs
20. “Move On” – A+
The fact that a 13-year-old made this track is of itself incredible. The execution is perfect, from the beat (which has been used several times since by other rappers), to the soulful hook and then A+’s storytelling about lost loved ones. Seriously, it sounds like a 30-year-old recounting better days with fallen soldiers, not a freshly teenaged rapper. I love this track to this day.
19. “G.O.D. Pt. III” – Mobb Deep
Great Scarface sample for this track. Every rapper quotes Scarface. But Mobb rapped over the music from the movie. Now that’s gangsta. Mobb Deep always brought that street shit and this was an absolute banger from Hell on Earth.
18. “D’Evils” – Jay-Z
If I wrote this in 1996, I would’ve picked “Can’t Knock The Hustle.” Just a few years ago, I would’ve picked “Feelin’ It.” If I wanted to make the popular choice, I’d go with the Biggie collaboration, “Brooklyn’s Finest.” If I wanted to please “real hip-hop heads” I would’ve picked “Can I Live.” The crazy thing is, they all would be great picks. But I’m going with my true favorite from the album. I loved this song when I first heard it and think it’s just as great now.
17. “1nce Again” – A Tribe Called Quest
Beats , Rhymes & Life had a lot to live up to given Tribe’s track record. And while it wasn’t quite as good as their previous work, the lead single was still excellent. This track featured production from Dilla and was one of the first songs the great producer worked on with Tribe. It features the hook from “Check The Rhime,” as Q-Tip and Phife repeat the “Ya on point” hook.
16. “The Love Song” – Da Bush Babees feat. Mos Def
Da Bush Babees second album, Gravity, was a fantastic release. It featured Q-Tip, as well as an unknown Mos Def. Mos rapped and scatted on “S.O.S.” and also provided the hook for this track. De La Soul’s Posdnuos produced the song and serves up a great beat. This is feel good hip-hop.
15. “Stick To Ya Gunz” – M.O.P. feat. Kool G. Rap
M.O.P. and Kool G. Rap together? Yes please! This song is just mean. The beat is menacing and Lil’ Fame, Billy Danze and G. Rap rip it apart. Danze’s verse is my favorite. “Holding it down it’s the drama Lord/So you riff/You’ll be lift/And laid stiff/As a fuckin’ board.” Damn.
14. “Bow Down” – Westside Connection
During the East Coast-West Coast beef, Ice Cube, Mack 10 & W.C. joined forces to bring us Westside Connection. Although I wasn’t a huge fan of their album, the lead single was tremendous. Ice Cube smacks you in the face with his opening verse. Great West Coast hip-hop anthem.
13. “Stakes Is High” – De La Soul
Loved the production on this joint. No surprise that it was a Dilla beat. Lyrically, this song is brilliant. Dave vented against the current fads like blunts, slang, Versace and commercial hip-hop. While Posdnuos discusses social issues including racism, drug abuse and poverty.
12. “Firewater” – Fat Joe feat. Raekwon, Big Punisher & Armageddon
Everything the Wu touched during this time was gold. Raekwon was the perfect choice to open the song, as well as deliver the hook. The beat is stripped down and raw. Joe was still ferocious back in ’96, as this was well before his Ja Rule, Ashanti, R. Kelly collaborations. Armageddon spits my favorite line, “My body’s 95% alcohol, 5% cancer.” Oh, and this track brought us Big Pun, who steals the show to close out the track.
11. “Clones” – The Roots feat. M.A.R.S. & Dice Raw
Could’ve picked “Concerto of the Desperado” here as well, but there’s just something so dope about “Clones.” The production has an old school feel to it and all four MC’s tear it up. Black Thought sounds really hungry on this track. He remains one of the most underrated MCs to ever do it.
10. “Smoke Buddah” – Redman
Over Rick James’ “Mary Jane,” Red makes another ode to his favorite pastime. The song opens, “Ayo, I got a slight problem, I smoke weed too much/Needs buckle the fuck up when I’m splitting my dutch.” Red is an animated as ever on this one. This was my favorite time period for Redman music, and “Whateva Man” deserves recognition here as well.
9. “Woo Hah” – Busta Rhymes
Busta has now done every type of song, rocked every style, invented new sounds and has taken his music to so many different levels, but this wild-ass style was the Busta sound of the early-to-mid ‘90’s. It wouldn’t have sounded right if Busta didn’t go ape shit on his solo debut. The beat is almost cartoonish and it matched Busta’s personality perfectly.
8. “Renee” – Lost Boyz
I originally heard this song on the Don’t Be A Menace To South Central While Drinking Your Juice In The Hood soundtrack, and I liked it, but didn’t think much more of it. Then they released the album version and it took on a whole new life. The beat became much harder, and while the lyrics remained the same, the story just sounded better over the new backdrop. Great story telling on this track and Mr. Cheeks’ finest effort.
7. “Paparazzi” – Xzibit
This was my introduction to Xzibit. The beat on this track is chilling, as it samples Gabriel Faure’s “Pavane” to perfection. X discusses his disdain for hip-hop artists selling out for fame and spits,“I don’t need no lights, no cameras, just action Goddamnit/Never no superstar, I’m more like a planet.”
6. “Elevators” – Outkast
“Me and you/Your momma and your cousin too.” After hearing this song for the first time, I was singing the hook for the rest of the day. It was so damn catchy. And so damn smooth. Andre’s final verse about rap music being a job and a way to feed his family instead of a glamorous life in the spotlight is a fresh look at what trying to make it in the music industry is really like.
5. “Ready Or Not” – The Fugees
Did anyone see this coming from Lauryn Hill? She blew us all away with her amazing voice in 1996. “Killing Me Softly” was of course her breakout performance and the Fugees most successful record, but she sounds just as amazing on this track. And she combines her showstopping vocals with another dope verse. Seriously, Lauryn could spit as well as anyone. Wish she would still rhyme.
4. “The Message” – Nas
I get excited every time this track begins. The opening bars that Nas spits are ridiculous. Lyrically, this was like a continuation of Illmatic. Nas sounds as good as he has on any track here. The guitar licks are hypnotizing as well. And the “N.Y. State of Mind” sample for the hook was the perfect touch.
3. “Daytona 500” – Ghostface Killah feat. Raekwon & Cappadonna
I first heard this song during a live performance on MTV. The Wu did a small concert, including “Wu-Wear” and “Ice Cream” and then Ghost unveiled this track as the first single off Ironman. I spazzed the first time I heard this. RZA delivered again with a beat that was completely unique. All three MCs are fantastic on this track.
2. “Ambitionz Az A Ridah” – 2Pac
One of the most haunting tracks ever. Pac’s accappella vocals to open the track, then that menacing beat, it just grabs you and doesn’t let go. 2Pac is sharp as ever on this track and you could tell right from the start that All Eyez On Me was going to be magical as this song set the tone for two-discs of some of the best music 2Pac ever created. “I won’t deny ya/I’m a straight ridah/You don’t wanna fuck with me.”
1. “Leflour Leflah Eshkoshka” – Fab 5 (Heltah Skeltah & Originoo Gunn Clappaz)
The illest shit to come out in 1996. This remains one of my favorite hip-hop songs. Classic Boot Camp sound and Rock and Ruck ripped this track apart. I rap along with this song every time it comes on. There’s so many dope lines, it’s ridiculous. Ruck owns it with, “I control the masses/With metaphors that’s massive/Don’t ask if/The n-gga Ruck will bash it like Cassius,” and “So whatcha gonna do?/When you’re stuck at 32/Degrees, please/Get off your knees/And follow these/Now swallow these/Buckshots from the rifle/Then I will make n-ggas beat it and scream like Michael.”
Best Albums
10. Illadelph Halftime – The Roots
Some regard this as The Roots best album. I don’t quite agree with that, but it is great. The Roots stayed true to their sound during a time when a lot of acts were starting to sell out and go the commercial route. The group touched on this in their brilliant video for “What They Do.” Lots of great songs on this disc and excellent cameos from Common, Q-Tip, Bahamadia and D’Angelo among others. My favorite tracks are “Respond/React,” “Push Up Ya Lighter,” “Concerto of the Desperado,” “Clones” and “Ital (The Universal Side).”
9. Firing Squad – M.O.P.
In previous posts on this site, I’ve talked about artists that I didn’t initially like and I have to make a confession that absolutely kills me. The first time I heard M.O.P. was “Rugged Neva Smooth” and I didn’t care for them. I don’t know why. I’m a fan of that song now, but for some reason, back in ’93 when I first heard it, I didn’t like it. I love M.O.P. They are one of my absolute favorite groups of all time. And this is the album that made me a fan. They are as rugged and raw as ever on this album and it includes such standouts as “New Jack City,” “Stick To Ya Gunz,” “Born 2 Kill,” “World Famous,” “Illside of Town,” hell the whole album is dope.
8. Noctural – Heltah Skeltah
Black Moon and Smif-N-Wessun brought us classics in ’93 & ’95 respectively and now it was Ruck & Rock’s turn to carry the torch for the Boot Camp Clik. While Noctural wasn’t quite a classic like Enta Da Stage or Dah Shinin’, it was still a fantastic debut album. Rock has one of my favorite voices in music and Ruck is lyrically as sharp as any member of the BCC. And of course my favorite song of ’96 was on this album. Let the madness begin!
7. Legal Drug Money – Lost Boyz
This was an incredibly dope album, one that I have kind of put on the back burner in recent years. But I listened to this album every day for about 3 weeks straight when it first came out. If I wrote this in 1996, this CD would have an outside shot of finishing among my top 3 albums of the year. “Renee” remains the standout, but there are a ton of great tracks on this album. My other favorites are “The Yearn,” “Jeeps, Lex Coups, Bimaz & Benz,” “Lifestyles of the Rich and Shameless,” “Is This Da Part” and “1, 2, 3,” that had Freaky Tah as the lead lyricist. R.I.P. Freaky Tah.
6. ATLiens – Outkast
After their debut album introduced Outkast as Southern playa’s, they come back on some extraterrestrial shit. This was completely different. Not just from Outkast’s previous music, but from anything in hip-hop. Perhaps a risky move, but it paid off. And as we learned, Outkast was never a group to stick to the same formula. Highlights include “Two Dope Boyz (In A Cadillac),” the title track, “Wheelz of Steel,” “Jazzy Belle,” “Elevators,” and “13th Floor/Growing Old.”
5. The Seven Day Theory – 2Pac
Or Don Killuminati, whatever you prefer. This was 2Pac’s second album to drop in 1996, as he finished recording this shortly before his death. The album was released posthumously, but was still a true Pac release as it didn’t sound dated or altered in any way. 2Pac is downright angry on tracks like “Bomb First” and “Against All Odds.” He also created a follow-up to “California Love” with “To Live & Die in L.A.” The rest of the album touches on a bevy of topics in songs like “Krazy,” “White Man’z World” and “Hold Ya Head.” The album also includes the brilliant “Me and My Girlfriend” which Jay-Z reused for “’03 Bonnie & Clyde.”
4. Ironman – Ghostface Killah
The Wu was relatively quiet in terms of albums in ’96, although they did launch their clothing line and made guest appearances everywhere. But with the one solo album that did come out in ‘96, the Wu produced another gem. I can honestly say Ghost was not among my favorite Wu-Tang members before Ironman dropped, but he won me over. Now, he’s tied with Meth as my favorite Wu MC. And he has definitely put out the best solo work out of them all.
3. Reasonable Doubt – Jay-Z
There’s no denying Reasonable Doubt’s status as a hip-hop classic. Jay-Z made some noise with “Dead Presidents II” and then hit the mainstream with “Ain’t No N-gga,” featuring Foxy Brown. But it is the non-commercial songs that really made this album as great as it is. It features production from DJ Clark Kent, DJ Premier, Irv Gotti, Ski and the Hitmen and it brought us our first Biggie-Jay-Z collaboration with “Brooklyn’s Finest,” which is ridiculously dope. I bought this album the day it came out and listened to the entire thing while sitting on the beach. I became an instant fan.
2. The Score – The Fugees
This album is like a hip-hop variety show. It brought us soul, R&B, reggae, and hip-hop all rolled into one. “Ready or Not,” “Fu-Gee-La,” “Killing Me Softly,” “No Woman, No Cry” all had that vintage sound from classic records that came before them, but the Fugees not only did the originals justice, they made the songs their own. The entire album was flawless and remains one of the most enjoyable and relistenable hip-hop albums to be released.
1. All Eyez On Me – 2Pac
This is the No. 3 album on my all-time list. Two discs worth of 2Pac at his absolute best. Pac made the Best Albums list twice in 1997 and this is a double-disc, meaning he put out 3 discs worth of classic material in one year. Most would lean towards Disc 1 as the stronger of the two, but honestly, I wouldn’t want one without the other. They are the perfect compliment to each other. While it’s true that Disc 1 has the more recognizable songs like “All About U,” “Life Goes On,” “I Ain’t Mad At Cha,” “How Do You Want It?” and “California Love,” Disc 2 has some of the best songs Pac ever made. From the Dre banger “Can’t C Me,” featuring George Clinton, to “Holla At Me,” “Picture Me Rollin’,” the title track and “Run That Streetz,” there is no shortage of great songs from front to back. There is one misstep on the album, the awful “What’z Ya Phone #” but I forgave it when I first heard the album 15 years ago, so I’ll continue to overlook that one hiccup and continue to celebrate this as one of the best hip-hop records ever.
I know I haven’t done this with the other lists, but trimming down the lists for 1996 was really difficult. I had to leave out some great songs and albums, so I’m going to give a quick honorable mention to the following albums: Smoothe The Hustler’s Once Upon A Time In America; Redman’s Muddy Waters; De La Soul’s Stakes Is High; Busta Rhymes’ The Coming; Xzibit’s At The Speed of Life; Eazy-E’s Str8 Off Tha Streetz of Muthaphuckkin’ Compton; Mobb Deep’s Hell on Earth; Nas’ It Was Written; Dr. Octagon's Dr. Octagonecologyst; Da Bush Babees’ Gravity; Jeru the Damaja's Wrath of the Math; and A Tribe Called Quest’s Beats, Rhymes & Life.
Damn, that's a lot of honorable mentions. Probably would've just been easier to make a Top 20 albums list for '96. But wanted to stick to the formula, so there you go.
Up next is ’97 (obviously). Till next time….
Song of the Day
Smoothe da Hustler ft. Trigger tha Gambler - "Broken Language"
This is some nasty shit. This song served as the lead single off Smoothe's fantastic debut. The Best of '96 is coming in a minute and this song just missed the Top 20 song cut, so wanted to give it some props right here. The beat is raw and Smoothe and Trigger have great chemistry.
This is some nasty shit. This song served as the lead single off Smoothe's fantastic debut. The Best of '96 is coming in a minute and this song just missed the Top 20 song cut, so wanted to give it some props right here. The beat is raw and Smoothe and Trigger have great chemistry.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Song of the Day
Defari - "Never Lose Touch"
Great track from Defari. Evidence on the production, as it sounds like something Dilated Peoples would spit over. E-Swift handled the scratches. Really dope West Coast hip-hop from the Likwit Crew MC. Defari always brought it lyrically and this was the highlight of his debut, Focused Daily.
Great track from Defari. Evidence on the production, as it sounds like something Dilated Peoples would spit over. E-Swift handled the scratches. Really dope West Coast hip-hop from the Likwit Crew MC. Defari always brought it lyrically and this was the highlight of his debut, Focused Daily.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Song of the Day
Atmosphere - "She's Enough"
Been really digesting The Family Sign over the last few days. Definitely a more serious sound from Atmosphere. Hope to have an album review up in a day or two. In the meantime, here's the first single off the album. Not my favorite song on the album, but the video's pretty great. And Brother Ali as the cafeteria worker? Fantastic!
Been really digesting The Family Sign over the last few days. Definitely a more serious sound from Atmosphere. Hope to have an album review up in a day or two. In the meantime, here's the first single off the album. Not my favorite song on the album, but the video's pretty great. And Brother Ali as the cafeteria worker? Fantastic!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Song of the Day
Saigon feat. Kool G. Rap - "Letter P"
Holy shit! I hadn't heard this song in a while and just found this video. First of all, I had a different version with a second verse from Saigon, not Kool G. Rap. Which is really dope. Then I saw Kool G. Rap in a throwback Expos jersey? Say word. That's some dope shit. This video dropped like 4 years ago, but this was fresh for me to see. Saigon's verse is something serious.
Holy shit! I hadn't heard this song in a while and just found this video. First of all, I had a different version with a second verse from Saigon, not Kool G. Rap. Which is really dope. Then I saw Kool G. Rap in a throwback Expos jersey? Say word. That's some dope shit. This video dropped like 4 years ago, but this was fresh for me to see. Saigon's verse is something serious.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
The Best Hip-Hop Songs & Albums: 1995
After a monster year in ’94, how will 1995 stack up? One thing is for sure, the Wu definitely dominated the year and continued their industry takeover. Another legend made his debut in ’95 and hip-hop music had a little darker feel in ’95. The rules are simple: 20 songs (one per album) and 10 albums make up the Best of lists. Here we go….
Best of 1995
Best Songs
20. “Player’s Anthem” – Junior M.A.F.I.A.
Biggie brought his crew along introducing us to Lil’Cease and Lil’ Kim on this track. The hook is certainly the must memorable part of the track, but Biggie does kill it on this one as well. Like this track a lot more than “Get Money.” (But not more than 1996’s remix, “Gettin Money.”)
19. “Neva Go Back” – Special Ed
At one point in 1995, this was my favorite song. I loved the beat to this track. And Special Ed was riding high from his spot as one of the Crooklyn Dodgers for 1994’s “Crooklyn.” I can recite every word to this song and I haven’t really heard it much in the last few years, so it was a nice reminder of my love for hip-hop in my teen years.
18. “1,2 Pass It” – D&D All-Stars
Amazing collaboration here. Truly an all-star team assembled to rhyme over this Premo banger. Track starts with Mad Lion who passes the mic off to Doug E. Fresh, then KRS-One, Fat Joe, Smif-N-Wessun and finally Jeru the Damaja. Fat Joe opens his verse with, “Muthafuckas know who’s the best/If it ain’t Fat Joe then it must be Lord Finesse.” Jeru finishes with one of my favorite ad-libs, “We about to make like a bad check and bounce.”
17. “Proceed” – The Roots
Although the Roots debuted with Organix in 1993, I first heard their music with 1995’s “Distortion To Static.” While I love that song, this track is my favorite from Do You Want More?!!!??! and is one of my favorite Roots songs of all time. This track is timeless.
16. “Keep Their Heads Ringin’” – Dr. Dre
Three years removed from The Chronic, Dre dropped this banger on us for the Friday soundtrack. Head snapping beat and some more G-Funk to go along with Dre’s executive producer credit for Tha Dogg Pound’s 1995 debut, Dogg Food.
15. “Runnin’” – The Pharcyde
Pharcyde came back with another dope album with ‘95’s Labcabincalifornia. This was the lead single, produced by the late, great Dilla. Fat Lip opens the track with a terrific verse recalling his younger days getting picked on at school. And Imani’s verse to close the song out is my favorite. This sounds as fresh today as it did when it dropped.
14. “Whutcha Want?” – Nine
Certainly one of the most unique voices in hip-hop history, Nine commands your attention. This was his debut single and it enjoyed some commercial success, hitting No. 50 on the U.S. Hot 100 charts. The beat on this track is sick. What ever happened to Nine?
13. “Elevation” – The B.U.M.S.
Now this is some classic hip-hop. And what the hell ever happened to the B.U.M.S.? Their debut album, Lyfe N Tyme, would’ve been one of my favorites, but they decided to put a skit in between each track, stretching 10 tracks of dope music into 20 tracks of music and skits. I can’t stress this enough, I HATE skits on hip-hop albums. This track is fantastic. The B.U.M.S. were fantastic. Wish they would’ve had a longer career.
12. “Put It On” – Big L
Here’s that legendary debut I was talking about in the intro. Big L didn’t knock on the door in ’95, he kicked that shit down. L dropped a classic album in ’95 and this was the lead single. L’s verses are all hip-hop quotables. And Kid Capri was a nice touch for the hook.
11. “Mad Izm” – Channel Live feat. KRS-One
What better way to make a name for yourself than to grab the Blastmaster? Only problem with that is, you’re sharing the mic with KRS. Not that Channel Live doesn’t hold their own, but KRS just flat out owns this track. A weed anthem over one of my favorite beats.
10. “How High?” – Method Man & Redman
Did someone say weed anthem? This is the track that began the Red & Meth partnership. Which brought us Blackout!, How High? the movie and of course the Red & Meth show on FOX. Okay, so almost all good things came from this collabo. Lyrically, I’m not sure who takes the cake here, as Red & Meth seem to one up each other throughout the track.
9. “I Got 5 On It” – Luniz
Well if we’re talking about weed anthems, how about we up the ante? This one is a true classic. The Luniz made multiple remixes/reprises of this song, including the great West Coast Ballas Remix with E-40, Digital Underground, Dru Down, Spice-1 & Richie Rich, but I’ll take the original any day.
8. “Dear Mama” – 2Pac
Has there ever been a more heartfelt song in hip-hop? I always thought this was the perfect Mother’s Day song, until Pac says, “And even as a crack fiend, Mama/You always was a black queen, Mama.” Still heartfelt and sincere, regardless. Nobody could pull this song off like 2Pac. Nobody.
7. “Tha Crossroads” – Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
I still love this song even though I’ve heard it 1,000,000 times. Perhaps not as much as when it came out, but I still think it’s a great song. “1st of the Month” was also worthy of this list, but I got excited every time “Tha Crossroads” came on the radio and loved the video with Eazy-E leading the angels up to Heaven.
6. “Shadowboxin’” – GZA feat. Method Man
I’ll talk more about Liquid Swords in detail below, but this shit was ridiculous. This track probably belonged on Tical because it’s more Meth than GZA. This is one of the hardest, rawest Wu tracks ever made. Meth’s first verse is as good as they come.
5. “Ice Cream” – Raekwon feat. Ghostface Killah, Cappadonna & Method Man
Meth is fantastic on this and the perfect choice for the hook. The Eddie Murphy line from Delirious is also a great touch. Ghostface steals the show on this one with his Adina Howard line. From a production standpoint, RZA couldn’t be touched between 1993-95. This track is so ill.
4. “Brooklyn Zoo” – Ol’ Dirty Bastard
That’s right, three Wu tracks in a row. I know I said “Shadowboxin’” was one of the rawest Wu tracks ever made, but this track IS the rawest Wu track ever made. Ol’ Dirty goes crazy over some distorted keys and horns. RZA hit another home run and Ol’ Dirty also knocked it out of the park. And yes, I love “Shimmy Shimmy Ya,” but this is just too dope!
3. “Last Dayz” – Onyx
Onyx has always been in your face and nasty, but this track is more sinister than anything they ever dropped. You may remember this beat from 8 Mile. And as dope as that battle scene is, it’s nothing compared to the original version. Sticky Fingaz drops a gem, “Thought about taking my own life, might as well/Except they might not sell weed in Hell/And that’s where I’m going because the Devil’s inside of me/They make me rob from own nationality/That’s kind of ignorant/But yo, I gotta pay the rent/So yeah, I’ll stick a n-gga most definite.” That’s some real shit.
2. “Let’s Git It On” – Smif-N-Wessun
I wanted to put “Bucktown” on this list. “Bucktown” deserves to be on the Best of 1995 list. But “Let’s Git It On” is my favorite track off Smif-N-Wessun’s classic Dah Shinin’. Anytime two MC’s go back-and-forth like Tek & Steele do on this banger, it will win me over. The beat is a banger and Tek and Steele flow seamlessly over it, trading the mic back and forth perfectly. One of my favorite Boot Camp songs ever made.
1.“Shook Ones Part II” – Mobb Deep
Where do I start? The beat is one of the greatest ever made. The lyrics have been reused/sampled 100 times over on other songs. Prodigy opens the song with a classic verse, Havoc follows with more of the same. I could listen to this song every day for the rest of my life and never get tired of it. I just put it on while writing this and had to stop to listen because I love it that much. Hip-Hop couldn’t be more perfect than this track.
Best Albums
10. All We Got Iz Us - Onyx
This album dropped a day before my birthday, so I have a special connection to the record. I loved “Live Niguz” off The Show soundtrack and was glad to find it here as well. And then of course it contained “Last Dayz,” which I already discussed above. Other standouts included the title track, “Betta Off Dead,” and one of my personal favorites, “Two Wrongs.”
9. Do You Want More?!!!??! – The Roots
Again, I didn’t have Organix, nor did I hear it, so this album was my introduction to The Roots. Since this album dropped, The Roots have become one of my favorite hip-hop acts ever. I’ve seen them live at least half a dozen times and I’ve never seen a better show than their Halloween show circa 2001. So many great tracks on this disc, “Proceed,” “Distortion To Static,” “Mellow My Man,” “Datskat,” “Essaywhuman?!!!??!,” “Silent Treatment,” and “The Lesson Pt. 1” just to name a few.
8. Me Against The World – 2Pac
As I’ve said before, Pac got better with every album. This was his third disc and it’s definitely a great one. 2Pac recorded this in the weeks leading up to his prison sentence and it’s definitely personal and reflective. “If I Die 2Nite” is a great way to open the album and “So Many Tears,” “Dear Mama,” “Can U Get Away,” and “Death Around The Corner” are all highlights.
7. Return To The 36 Chambers: The Dirty Version – Ol’ Dirty Bastard
Ol’ Dirty just happened to release his debut the same year as two classic Wu solo albums, which brings this down a few notches. Then again, this album didn’t sound like anything else that dropped in 1995. True it still had that raw Wu sound that RZA made famous, but Dirty was absolutely crazy on this album. “Shimmy Shimmy Ya” and “Brooklyn Zoo” are the two big singles from the album, but other great tracks include “Rawhide,” “Damage,” “The Stomp,” “Goin’ Down,” “Snakes” and “Cuttin’ Headz.”
6. Lifestyles Ov Da Rich And Dangerous – Big L
L was a lyrical giant and this was the first real look at how dope he was. The whole album is brilliant as Big L spits over some of D.I.T.C.’s finest beats. “Put It On,” “MVP,” “Danger Zone,” “Da Graveyard” and “Let ‘Em Have It ‘L’” are among my favorite cuts on the album. Also featured a young Jay-Z and an unknown Cam’ron. R.I.P. Big L.
5. Dah Shinin’ – Smif-N-Wessun
This is another classic Boot Camp album, as the Beatminerz cook up some of their best beats for Tek and Steele to let loose on. It’s loaded with great songs, including all-time greats “Bucktown” and “Let’s Git It On.” This first 8 songs on this album are among the strongest you’ll find on any hip-hop album. This record was pure hip-hop.
4. E. 1999 Eternal – Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
I used to play this album every night before bed. I’d pop the CD in my discman and lay in bed and zone out to some of the illest shit I’d ever heard. Bone proved to be more than just a gimmick or one-trick pony as they composed songs that covered everything from welfare to death to weed anthems and then some straight up gangsta shit. The production on this was perfect and this album, as well as the remix to “Crossroad” (which became “Tha Crossroads”), launched Bone into superstardom.
3. The Infamous – Mobb Deep
The fact that this album is No. 3 tells you it was a good year for hip-hop. “Shook Ones Part II” was the song of the year, but it was far from being the only standout. With help from Raekwon, Ghostface, Nas, Big Noyd and Q-Tip, Mobb delivered one of the finest albums of the 90’s. “Survival Of The Fittest,” “Eye For An Eye,” “Right Back At You,” and “Drink Away The Pain” are all worthy of being top 20 songs for ’95.
2. Liquid Swords – GZA
The No.1 album has to be damn good for this to be No. 2. And it is. But if you prefer this one over it, I couldn’t really blame you. Of all the unbelievable MCs in the Wu-Tang Clan, Genius is the best lyricist and he shows that off here. Rhyme for rhyme, no one can mess with him. RZA brings some of his finest production on this one as this album delivers classic after classic. There isn’t a weak spot on the entire album. The title track, “4th Chamber” and “Shadowboxin’” remain three of my favorite Wu tracks ever made.
1.Only Built 4 Cuban Linx – Raekwon
I told you the No. 1 album was a classic. Raekwon, with help from Ghostface Killah, brings the finest Wu solo album ever. If you read my Modern Day Classic story you’ll know how I feel about this album. There’s no way in hell Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II is as good as this album. “Knuckleheadz,” “Criminology,” “Incarcerated Scarfaces,” “Glaciers of Ice,” “Verbal Intercourse,” “Ice Cream,” “Wu-Gambinos,” “Heaven & Hell,” where do I begin? RZA’s production is unbelievable. The guest spots are all phenomenal (my personal favorites are U-God on “Knuckleheadz,” Nas on “Verbal Intercourse” (which is a no-brainer) and Meth and RZA on “Wu-Gambinos.”) This album also brought the Wu aliases to us as the Clan became a mob family. Often imitated, but never duplicated, it’s flawless, timeless, classic hip-hop.
That’s it for 9-5. It was a very Wu year, that’s for certain. Also wanted to give special recognition to Goodie Mob who made their debut in ’95. I had Soul Food on my top 10 album list and “Cell Therapy” on my top 20 song list, but I bumped them both at the last second. Not that Goodie doesn’t deserve to make the list, but I will confess that I was a little late to the party with that album and never really appreciated it in ’95. It’s true that as you get older, you get wiser. But I stand by my list either way. Lots of great hip-hop there.
Up next, 1996, which has 2 more of my favorite albums of all time. Lots of great songs and albums to come. Check back soon.
Best of 1995
Best Songs
20. “Player’s Anthem” – Junior M.A.F.I.A.
Biggie brought his crew along introducing us to Lil’Cease and Lil’ Kim on this track. The hook is certainly the must memorable part of the track, but Biggie does kill it on this one as well. Like this track a lot more than “Get Money.” (But not more than 1996’s remix, “Gettin Money.”)
19. “Neva Go Back” – Special Ed
At one point in 1995, this was my favorite song. I loved the beat to this track. And Special Ed was riding high from his spot as one of the Crooklyn Dodgers for 1994’s “Crooklyn.” I can recite every word to this song and I haven’t really heard it much in the last few years, so it was a nice reminder of my love for hip-hop in my teen years.
18. “1,2 Pass It” – D&D All-Stars
Amazing collaboration here. Truly an all-star team assembled to rhyme over this Premo banger. Track starts with Mad Lion who passes the mic off to Doug E. Fresh, then KRS-One, Fat Joe, Smif-N-Wessun and finally Jeru the Damaja. Fat Joe opens his verse with, “Muthafuckas know who’s the best/If it ain’t Fat Joe then it must be Lord Finesse.” Jeru finishes with one of my favorite ad-libs, “We about to make like a bad check and bounce.”
17. “Proceed” – The Roots
Although the Roots debuted with Organix in 1993, I first heard their music with 1995’s “Distortion To Static.” While I love that song, this track is my favorite from Do You Want More?!!!??! and is one of my favorite Roots songs of all time. This track is timeless.
16. “Keep Their Heads Ringin’” – Dr. Dre
Three years removed from The Chronic, Dre dropped this banger on us for the Friday soundtrack. Head snapping beat and some more G-Funk to go along with Dre’s executive producer credit for Tha Dogg Pound’s 1995 debut, Dogg Food.
15. “Runnin’” – The Pharcyde
Pharcyde came back with another dope album with ‘95’s Labcabincalifornia. This was the lead single, produced by the late, great Dilla. Fat Lip opens the track with a terrific verse recalling his younger days getting picked on at school. And Imani’s verse to close the song out is my favorite. This sounds as fresh today as it did when it dropped.
14. “Whutcha Want?” – Nine
Certainly one of the most unique voices in hip-hop history, Nine commands your attention. This was his debut single and it enjoyed some commercial success, hitting No. 50 on the U.S. Hot 100 charts. The beat on this track is sick. What ever happened to Nine?
13. “Elevation” – The B.U.M.S.
Now this is some classic hip-hop. And what the hell ever happened to the B.U.M.S.? Their debut album, Lyfe N Tyme, would’ve been one of my favorites, but they decided to put a skit in between each track, stretching 10 tracks of dope music into 20 tracks of music and skits. I can’t stress this enough, I HATE skits on hip-hop albums. This track is fantastic. The B.U.M.S. were fantastic. Wish they would’ve had a longer career.
12. “Put It On” – Big L
Here’s that legendary debut I was talking about in the intro. Big L didn’t knock on the door in ’95, he kicked that shit down. L dropped a classic album in ’95 and this was the lead single. L’s verses are all hip-hop quotables. And Kid Capri was a nice touch for the hook.
11. “Mad Izm” – Channel Live feat. KRS-One
What better way to make a name for yourself than to grab the Blastmaster? Only problem with that is, you’re sharing the mic with KRS. Not that Channel Live doesn’t hold their own, but KRS just flat out owns this track. A weed anthem over one of my favorite beats.
10. “How High?” – Method Man & Redman
Did someone say weed anthem? This is the track that began the Red & Meth partnership. Which brought us Blackout!, How High? the movie and of course the Red & Meth show on FOX. Okay, so almost all good things came from this collabo. Lyrically, I’m not sure who takes the cake here, as Red & Meth seem to one up each other throughout the track.
9. “I Got 5 On It” – Luniz
Well if we’re talking about weed anthems, how about we up the ante? This one is a true classic. The Luniz made multiple remixes/reprises of this song, including the great West Coast Ballas Remix with E-40, Digital Underground, Dru Down, Spice-1 & Richie Rich, but I’ll take the original any day.
8. “Dear Mama” – 2Pac
Has there ever been a more heartfelt song in hip-hop? I always thought this was the perfect Mother’s Day song, until Pac says, “And even as a crack fiend, Mama/You always was a black queen, Mama.” Still heartfelt and sincere, regardless. Nobody could pull this song off like 2Pac. Nobody.
7. “Tha Crossroads” – Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
I still love this song even though I’ve heard it 1,000,000 times. Perhaps not as much as when it came out, but I still think it’s a great song. “1st of the Month” was also worthy of this list, but I got excited every time “Tha Crossroads” came on the radio and loved the video with Eazy-E leading the angels up to Heaven.
6. “Shadowboxin’” – GZA feat. Method Man
I’ll talk more about Liquid Swords in detail below, but this shit was ridiculous. This track probably belonged on Tical because it’s more Meth than GZA. This is one of the hardest, rawest Wu tracks ever made. Meth’s first verse is as good as they come.
5. “Ice Cream” – Raekwon feat. Ghostface Killah, Cappadonna & Method Man
Meth is fantastic on this and the perfect choice for the hook. The Eddie Murphy line from Delirious is also a great touch. Ghostface steals the show on this one with his Adina Howard line. From a production standpoint, RZA couldn’t be touched between 1993-95. This track is so ill.
4. “Brooklyn Zoo” – Ol’ Dirty Bastard
That’s right, three Wu tracks in a row. I know I said “Shadowboxin’” was one of the rawest Wu tracks ever made, but this track IS the rawest Wu track ever made. Ol’ Dirty goes crazy over some distorted keys and horns. RZA hit another home run and Ol’ Dirty also knocked it out of the park. And yes, I love “Shimmy Shimmy Ya,” but this is just too dope!
3. “Last Dayz” – Onyx
Onyx has always been in your face and nasty, but this track is more sinister than anything they ever dropped. You may remember this beat from 8 Mile. And as dope as that battle scene is, it’s nothing compared to the original version. Sticky Fingaz drops a gem, “Thought about taking my own life, might as well/Except they might not sell weed in Hell/And that’s where I’m going because the Devil’s inside of me/They make me rob from own nationality/That’s kind of ignorant/But yo, I gotta pay the rent/So yeah, I’ll stick a n-gga most definite.” That’s some real shit.
2. “Let’s Git It On” – Smif-N-Wessun
I wanted to put “Bucktown” on this list. “Bucktown” deserves to be on the Best of 1995 list. But “Let’s Git It On” is my favorite track off Smif-N-Wessun’s classic Dah Shinin’. Anytime two MC’s go back-and-forth like Tek & Steele do on this banger, it will win me over. The beat is a banger and Tek and Steele flow seamlessly over it, trading the mic back and forth perfectly. One of my favorite Boot Camp songs ever made.
1.“Shook Ones Part II” – Mobb Deep
Where do I start? The beat is one of the greatest ever made. The lyrics have been reused/sampled 100 times over on other songs. Prodigy opens the song with a classic verse, Havoc follows with more of the same. I could listen to this song every day for the rest of my life and never get tired of it. I just put it on while writing this and had to stop to listen because I love it that much. Hip-Hop couldn’t be more perfect than this track.
Best Albums
10. All We Got Iz Us - Onyx
This album dropped a day before my birthday, so I have a special connection to the record. I loved “Live Niguz” off The Show soundtrack and was glad to find it here as well. And then of course it contained “Last Dayz,” which I already discussed above. Other standouts included the title track, “Betta Off Dead,” and one of my personal favorites, “Two Wrongs.”
9. Do You Want More?!!!??! – The Roots
Again, I didn’t have Organix, nor did I hear it, so this album was my introduction to The Roots. Since this album dropped, The Roots have become one of my favorite hip-hop acts ever. I’ve seen them live at least half a dozen times and I’ve never seen a better show than their Halloween show circa 2001. So many great tracks on this disc, “Proceed,” “Distortion To Static,” “Mellow My Man,” “Datskat,” “Essaywhuman?!!!??!,” “Silent Treatment,” and “The Lesson Pt. 1” just to name a few.
8. Me Against The World – 2Pac
As I’ve said before, Pac got better with every album. This was his third disc and it’s definitely a great one. 2Pac recorded this in the weeks leading up to his prison sentence and it’s definitely personal and reflective. “If I Die 2Nite” is a great way to open the album and “So Many Tears,” “Dear Mama,” “Can U Get Away,” and “Death Around The Corner” are all highlights.
7. Return To The 36 Chambers: The Dirty Version – Ol’ Dirty Bastard
Ol’ Dirty just happened to release his debut the same year as two classic Wu solo albums, which brings this down a few notches. Then again, this album didn’t sound like anything else that dropped in 1995. True it still had that raw Wu sound that RZA made famous, but Dirty was absolutely crazy on this album. “Shimmy Shimmy Ya” and “Brooklyn Zoo” are the two big singles from the album, but other great tracks include “Rawhide,” “Damage,” “The Stomp,” “Goin’ Down,” “Snakes” and “Cuttin’ Headz.”
6. Lifestyles Ov Da Rich And Dangerous – Big L
L was a lyrical giant and this was the first real look at how dope he was. The whole album is brilliant as Big L spits over some of D.I.T.C.’s finest beats. “Put It On,” “MVP,” “Danger Zone,” “Da Graveyard” and “Let ‘Em Have It ‘L’” are among my favorite cuts on the album. Also featured a young Jay-Z and an unknown Cam’ron. R.I.P. Big L.
5. Dah Shinin’ – Smif-N-Wessun
This is another classic Boot Camp album, as the Beatminerz cook up some of their best beats for Tek and Steele to let loose on. It’s loaded with great songs, including all-time greats “Bucktown” and “Let’s Git It On.” This first 8 songs on this album are among the strongest you’ll find on any hip-hop album. This record was pure hip-hop.
4. E. 1999 Eternal – Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
I used to play this album every night before bed. I’d pop the CD in my discman and lay in bed and zone out to some of the illest shit I’d ever heard. Bone proved to be more than just a gimmick or one-trick pony as they composed songs that covered everything from welfare to death to weed anthems and then some straight up gangsta shit. The production on this was perfect and this album, as well as the remix to “Crossroad” (which became “Tha Crossroads”), launched Bone into superstardom.
3. The Infamous – Mobb Deep
The fact that this album is No. 3 tells you it was a good year for hip-hop. “Shook Ones Part II” was the song of the year, but it was far from being the only standout. With help from Raekwon, Ghostface, Nas, Big Noyd and Q-Tip, Mobb delivered one of the finest albums of the 90’s. “Survival Of The Fittest,” “Eye For An Eye,” “Right Back At You,” and “Drink Away The Pain” are all worthy of being top 20 songs for ’95.
2. Liquid Swords – GZA
The No.1 album has to be damn good for this to be No. 2. And it is. But if you prefer this one over it, I couldn’t really blame you. Of all the unbelievable MCs in the Wu-Tang Clan, Genius is the best lyricist and he shows that off here. Rhyme for rhyme, no one can mess with him. RZA brings some of his finest production on this one as this album delivers classic after classic. There isn’t a weak spot on the entire album. The title track, “4th Chamber” and “Shadowboxin’” remain three of my favorite Wu tracks ever made.
1.Only Built 4 Cuban Linx – Raekwon
I told you the No. 1 album was a classic. Raekwon, with help from Ghostface Killah, brings the finest Wu solo album ever. If you read my Modern Day Classic story you’ll know how I feel about this album. There’s no way in hell Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II is as good as this album. “Knuckleheadz,” “Criminology,” “Incarcerated Scarfaces,” “Glaciers of Ice,” “Verbal Intercourse,” “Ice Cream,” “Wu-Gambinos,” “Heaven & Hell,” where do I begin? RZA’s production is unbelievable. The guest spots are all phenomenal (my personal favorites are U-God on “Knuckleheadz,” Nas on “Verbal Intercourse” (which is a no-brainer) and Meth and RZA on “Wu-Gambinos.”) This album also brought the Wu aliases to us as the Clan became a mob family. Often imitated, but never duplicated, it’s flawless, timeless, classic hip-hop.
That’s it for 9-5. It was a very Wu year, that’s for certain. Also wanted to give special recognition to Goodie Mob who made their debut in ’95. I had Soul Food on my top 10 album list and “Cell Therapy” on my top 20 song list, but I bumped them both at the last second. Not that Goodie doesn’t deserve to make the list, but I will confess that I was a little late to the party with that album and never really appreciated it in ’95. It’s true that as you get older, you get wiser. But I stand by my list either way. Lots of great hip-hop there.
Up next, 1996, which has 2 more of my favorite albums of all time. Lots of great songs and albums to come. Check back soon.
Song of the Day
Various Artists - "The Points"
What a posse cut this was. A who's who of hip-hop in 1995. Biggie opens the track and slays it before passing off the mic to Coolio, Redman, Ill Al Sktrach, Big Mike, Busta Rhymes, Buckshot and Bone Thugs. This was a tough song to cut from my Best of '95 list.
What a posse cut this was. A who's who of hip-hop in 1995. Biggie opens the track and slays it before passing off the mic to Coolio, Redman, Ill Al Sktrach, Big Mike, Busta Rhymes, Buckshot and Bone Thugs. This was a tough song to cut from my Best of '95 list.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Song of the Day
KRS-One - "Outta Here"
Okay, so this really has nothing to do with KRS. This is an old school banger, but that's not why I picked it. This is in my own way an ode to the late Harry Kalas, who passed 2 years ago to the day. Hearing HK's voice is as big a part of my life as hip-hop music is, so here's to the best to ever do it. "Swing and a long drive, that ball is OUTTA HERE!"
Okay, so this really has nothing to do with KRS. This is an old school banger, but that's not why I picked it. This is in my own way an ode to the late Harry Kalas, who passed 2 years ago to the day. Hearing HK's voice is as big a part of my life as hip-hop music is, so here's to the best to ever do it. "Swing and a long drive, that ball is OUTTA HERE!"
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
New Release Tuesday
This week's new release choice is easy: Atmosphere's The Family Sign. Atmosphere is one of my favorite groups in hip-hop. Their sound has evolved over the years. Now a four-man crew with live instrumentation, but it's Slug's vocals and Ant's musical direction that still are the core of the group's music. 
From what I've heard, this is one of their more serious albums and I guarantee Slug will deliver more than one great story on this album. He is certainly one of the finest story tellers in hip-hop and when he rhymes about specific topics, he's at his best. Really looking forward to this.
From what I've heard, this is one of their more serious albums and I guarantee Slug will deliver more than one great story on this album. He is certainly one of the finest story tellers in hip-hop and when he rhymes about specific topics, he's at his best. Really looking forward to this.
Song of the Day
N.O.R.E. feat. Styles P & Prodigy - "Bottles Go Bang"
I've always enjoyed Noreaga's music. Dude makes me laugh. This is nothing original or groundbreaking, but it's still fun to listen to. Prodigy has been hard at work since getting out of prison. I expect a new Mobb Deep album to drop before the end of the year.
I've always enjoyed Noreaga's music. Dude makes me laugh. This is nothing original or groundbreaking, but it's still fun to listen to. Prodigy has been hard at work since getting out of prison. I expect a new Mobb Deep album to drop before the end of the year.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Song of the Day
Busta Rhymes feat. Notorious B.I.G. - "I Knock You Out"
Busta grabs an old Biggie verse for this collabo. Biggie's verse is from the seldom heard "All Men Are Dogs." Busta gets real explicit on this track. He's been tearing beats up lately and this is no exception.
Busta grabs an old Biggie verse for this collabo. Biggie's verse is from the seldom heard "All Men Are Dogs." Busta gets real explicit on this track. He's been tearing beats up lately and this is no exception.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Song of the Day
The Game feat. Eminem - "We Ain't"
Listening to an old mix CD I made from 2005 and found this gem on it. Game's debut was tremendous and this is one of my favorites from the disc. Love that Game even says "Em just killed me on my own shit." Eminem does rip this track apart.
Listening to an old mix CD I made from 2005 and found this gem on it. Game's debut was tremendous and this is one of my favorites from the disc. Love that Game even says "Em just killed me on my own shit." Eminem does rip this track apart.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Song of the Day
Public Enemy - "Give It Up"
Got left off my Best of 1994 list. I tried to find a spot for it because I love Public Enemy and I was a huge fan of this song when it first came out. Just couldn't bump any of the other tracks from the list because they all remain in rotation to this day. Classic P.E. sound on this one and claymation Flavor Flav in the video? Priceless.
Got left off my Best of 1994 list. I tried to find a spot for it because I love Public Enemy and I was a huge fan of this song when it first came out. Just couldn't bump any of the other tracks from the list because they all remain in rotation to this day. Classic P.E. sound on this one and claymation Flavor Flav in the video? Priceless.
Friday, April 8, 2011
The Best Hip-Hop Songs & Albums: 1994
1994 was a monster year for hip-hop. Two of the best rappers to ever grace a mic released their debut albums in ’94, while arguably the greatest duo in hip-hop history also debuted out of Atlanta. There were a few classic remixes that dropped in ’94, as well as some dream team collaborations. Oh, and my favorite song ever dropped in 1994. If you don't know how this works by now, go back and read the first few graphs for 1991. Alright, time's up.
Best of 1994
Best Songs
20. “The Most Beautifullest Thing In The World” – Keith Murray
Murray has always been on the lyrical tip and he flexes his vocabulary on his debut single. Erick Sermon offers the perfect backdrop for Murray to bend the English language on.
19. “I Seen A Man Die” – Scarface
This is a great story from ‘Face. The song’s about a man who is finally released from prison and hopes to live a better life. Instead, he reverts back to a world of crime and ends up getting murdered. The beat is sinister on this and Scarface’s vocals are chilling.
18. “Crooklyn” – Crooklyn Dodgers
Consisting of Buckshot, Special Ed & Masta Ace, this supergroup dropped the theme song to Spike Lee’s Crooklyn. Loved all three on this song, but Ace steals it with his final verse about ‘70’s TV icons running the streets.
17. “I Used To Love H.E.R.” – Common
Perhaps the greatest ode to hip-hop itself, Common portrays hip-hop as his girlfriend and takes you on a journey through hip-hop’s history. From underground, to conscience, to gangsta rap, hip-hop has evolved and been represented in so many forms and Common touches on all of it here.
16. “Back In The Day” – Ahmad
I was a huge fan of Ahmad back in ’94. He brought a different sound out of the West Coast and was more of any everyday rapper. This is his only hit record and it is a great throwback to the wonder years. I can relate to the hook even more in 2011, “Back in the days when I was young, I’m not a kid anymore/But some days I sit and wish I was a kid again.”
15. “Without A Doubt” – Black Sheep
The Sheep brought a much different sound on their second album, Non-Fiction. A lot of soulful joints on the album and it never got the credit it deserved. This was the lead single and Dres is fantastic on this one. I can listen to this track any day at any time and nod my head along and smile.
14. “Wrong Side Of The Tracks” – Artifacts
How could I forget two of Jersey's finest? This song was about bombing, which was a nice throwback to the origins of hip-hop culture. The horns on this song are ridiculous. Tame and El are incredibly dope and I'm hoping the reunion rumors are true.
13. “Regulate” – Warren G. & Nate Dogg
What really needs to be said about this song? It’s a hip-hop classic. Non hip-hop fans can recite this word for word. And sampling Michael McDonald? Not exactly what I would expect for the G-Funk era, but damn did Nate kill it with his silky smooth vocals.
12. “DWYCK” – Gang Starr feat. Nice & Smooth
A freestyle from Guru, Greg Nice and Smooth B over a classic Primo beat. So many memorable lines from this song. “Lemonade was a popular drink and it still is/I get more props and stunts than Bruce Willis.” It’s hip-hop in its rawest, barebones form and it is one of the finest representations of what true hip-hop is.
11. “How Long Will They Mourn Me?” – Thug Life feat. Nate Dogg
Nate Dogg is back, this time along with 2Pac and his Thug Life gang. Pac is terrific on this track as he talks about his fallen friend over some organs. Definitely one of my favorite Pac songs and Nate Dogg was the perfect choice for the hook.
10. “Claimin’ I’m A Criminal” – Brand Nubian
Dope, dope, dope, dope, dope shit right here. Lord Jamar starts the song with a verse about the police kicking in his mother’s door to arrest him for educating the black youth through his music. Sadat X follows with a tale of being behind bars and losing everything, including his wife, children and his “casual freedom.” X goes on with, “A million inmates but your still alone/You’re not crying, but inside you’re dying/You might cry in the night/When you’re safe and outta sight.” How cold is that?
9. “1-800-Suicide” – The Gravediggaz
From a production standpoint, this is one of the best songs of ’94. Prince Paul absolutely killed it with this beat. Lyrically Frukwan and Too Poetic deliver, but it’s RZA on the final verse that is the true show stealer as he offers up ways for six “apprentices” to off themselves. He then ends the verse with,“More graves to dig, goodbye/There’s no need to cry/Because we all die,” which leads into some Vincent Price-esque laughter.
8. “Flava In Ya Ear (Remix)” – Craig Mack feat. Notorious B.I.G., Rampage, LL Cool J & Busta Rhymes
Not surprisingly another one of the best posse cuts ever made involved Busta Rhymes. From the opening with Puff saying “Bad Boys, come out and play” to Biggie ripping up the first verse this song grabbed your attention immediately and never let go. The original is worthy of this list as well, but Mack got murdered on his own shit by both Biggie and Busta.
7. “Maintain” – Organized Konfusion
To this day I probably listen to this song at least once every few months. I own over 1,000 CDs. My iPod has well over 10,000 songs on it. And yet, I find myself putting this song on that frequently. Prince Po’s opening verse is solid, but it’s Pharoahe Monch that takes this song to another level. Starting the second verse in song and then following that with a description of what should be an everyday task turning sour due to the color of his skin is some dope, introspective shit.
6. “Player’s Ball” – Outkast
The song that brought the best duo in hip-hop to us all. There is no better Southern rap act and I can’t think of a better 1-2 punch in hip-hop than Andre 3000 and Big Boi. They were in their late teens when this song was made. A couple of Southern players riding around in caddy’s with a smokeout in the back seat. This was originally a Christmas song, which still cracks me up to this day.
5. “Nappy Heads (Remix)” – The Fugees
The song that was No. 1 on my 30 greatest remix list, Wyclef, Lauryn and Pras find the right formula on this track. The rest of their debut album was mostly a miss, but this song helped save their career and set them up for superstardom with 1996’s The Score.
4. “N.Y. State of Mind” – Nas
Illmatic had no flaws. None. You could pick any song off that album and put it on this list and it would be justified. I can understand why someone would pick “The World Is Yours,” “One Love” or “Represent.” Or maybe the lead single, “Ain’t Hard To Tell.” But this song is my favorite Nas song of all time. Lyrically, it is one of the best songs in hip-hop history. And from a production standpoint, DJ Premier delivers one of his finest beats. This is hip-hop perfection.
3. “Time’s Up” – O.C.
Perhaps the illest beat I’ve ever heard. It’s unbelievable. There’s nothing fancy or flashy about it. It’s raw, bare bones production and it’s perfection. Not surprising it’s Buckwild on the beat. What’s more incredible is O.C. isn’t shown up by the beat. He absolutely rips it on this. I wouldn’t want to hear this beat with anyone but O.C. Just like Nas & Primo on “N.Y. State of Mind,” O.C. & Buckwild made the perfect hip-hop song in “Time’s Up.”
2. “Warning” – The Notorious B.I.G.
I understand the significance of “Juicy.” I also understand how unbelievably dope “Juicy” is. I wanted to include “Juicy” on this list. But “Warning” is my favorite Biggie song and I had to stay true to myself and not go with the popular pick. “Who the fuck is this?/Pagin’ me at 5:46…” The concept of this song is truly original as Biggie receives a call from his man Pop from the Barbershop and the two discuss a rumored plan about Biggie’s murder. It’s hard hitting, head noddin’ and the story is as good as they come. This song made me a Biggie fan and there’s nothing more that needs to be said.
1. “Bring The Pain” – Method Man
This is my favorite song of all time. I love the production. I love the lyrics. I loved the video. I love the song title. I love Booster’s appearance for the hook. I love that Meth incorporated the torture skit from 36 Chambers for the end of the song. I love the opening line. I love everything about this song. Some people sing in the shower. I recite the lyrics to “Bring The Pain” in the shower. True story. I have listened to this song for 17 years now and I’ve never grown tired of it. I’ve never skipped it when my iPod’s on shuffle and I doubt I ever will.
Best Albums
10. Dare Iz A Darkside – Redman
Originally had “Rockafella” on the top 20 song list, but had to bump it from the list. Just too many great songs in '94. Redman’s first three albums were all fantastic and this one definitely lived up to his debut. “Noorotic,” “Cosmic Slop,” “Green Island,” and “Wuditlooklike” were all crazy good. And “Can’t Wait” is one of Redman’s finest. The video was terrific with Red dressed up as a grown baby and his last verse is sensational.
9. Resurrection – Common
This is underground hip-hop at it’s finest. And it’s been a long time since Common and underground were uttered in the same sentence. I’m happy Common made it big. He deserved it. And he still hasn’t sold out despite his fame. Not only did this album contain “I Used To Love H.E.R.,” it had other standouts like the title track, “Thisisme,” and “Chapter 13 (Rich Man vs. Poor Man).” And the track that I will always remember is “Sum Shit I Wrote” which was the name of the column written by the late Dave Ellis, who wrote weekly features about hip-hop that were as personal and genuine as you could find on his site, Hip-Hop-Reviewz.
8. Hard To Earn – Gang Starr
My second favorite Gang Starr album. This album is chock full of great songs. I am seriously debating switching “DWYCK” for “Code of the Streets” on the top 20 song list as we speak. I may change it before I finish writing this section. That’s how damn good those two songs both were. I’ll leave it as is, but “DWYCK” is 1a and “Code of the Streets” is 1b. It’s that close. And I’d have “Mass Appeal,” “Speak Ya Clout,” and “Suckas Need Bodyguards” as 2a, 2b and 2c. Damn, I love “F.A.L.A.” with Big Shug as well. This album was ridiculously dope. Some of Premo’s best beats and Lord knows he’s had a Hall of Fame career.
7. The Diary – Scarface
I straight up loved this album. Great southern hip-hop. Great gangsta rap. ‘Face is one of the greatest to ever do it. This is my favorite Scarface album by far. “Jesse James,” “I Seen A Man Die,” “Goin Down,” and “Mind Playin’ Tricks ‘94” are all terrific. The Ice Cube assisted “Hand of the Dead Body” breaks down censorship and politicians against violence in hip-hop music, to which ‘Face says, “Gangsta Nip, Spice 1 or 2Pac never gave a gun to me/So gangsta rap ain’t done shit for that/I’ve seen white folks from River Oaks go get the gat.” Dope.
6. Stress: Extinction Agenda – Organized Konfusion
I’ve already mentioned how much I love “Maintain,” but the whole album is tremendous. The title track introduced me to Prince Po & Pharoahe Monch, while the b-side to that single, “Keep It Koming,” was also solid. “Stray Bullet” is one of the most original concept songs ever made and Pharoahe’s verse from the perspective of the bullet is mind blowing. No pun intended.
5. 6 Feet Deep – The Gravediggaz
The idea of “horror-core” as it was known was a unique twist on gangsta rap. The Flatlinerz, Half Pit Half Dead and others brought satanic verses over haunting production. And it was kind of dope. But no one did it better than the Gravediggaz. Putting two geniuses like Prince Paul and RZA together for a concept album could only lead to greatness and the 6 Feet Deep didn’t disappoint. On “Nowhere To Run, Nowhere To Hide,” RZA includes a Wu-Tang tease, while Wu affiliates Killah Priest and Shabazz The Disciple join the fun on “Diary of the Madman,” in which RZA chews his own arm off to escape from certain death. This album was unique in every way and still stands out on its own today.
4. Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik – Outkast
Outkast has evolved so much since their debut, but this was about 2 dope boys in a Cadillac, making Southern playa music. Okay, so I just wrote that and realized I pretty much just rewrote the name of the album. I guess they got their point across. So many memorable songs from this album including the title track, “Player’s Ball,” “Claimin’ True,” “Ain’t No Thang” and “Hootie Hoo.” Outkast also introduced us to Cee-Lo and Big Gip on “Git Up, Git Out.” Organized Noize provided the production for all the early Dugeon Family releases and are credited with dozens of classics. Their sound fit Andre & Big Boi perfectly as this was a glimpse of more greatness that would come from Outkast.
3. Tical – Method Man
It not only contains my favorite song of all time, it’s a classic hip-hop album. With Only Built For Cuban Linx and Liquid Swords both dropping to critical acclaim in 1995, I feel Tical became the forgotten Wu classic of that era. It was mostly just Meth rhyming over RZA production, with the exception of a few collaborations, including the fantastic “Meth vs. Chef,” with Raekwon. The first eight tracks on the album are as good as any you’ll find on any Wu-Tang album, and “Mr. Sandman” and “Method Man (Remix)” help to close the album out on a high note. Seriously, if you haven’t heard this album in a while, go give it a listen and you’ll be reminded how unbelievably dope Meth was back in ’94.
2. Illmatic – Nas
How can this be No. 2? It’s the definition of hip-hop. A flawless debut. Nas has never been better and he’s one of the greatest of all time. What does that tell you? There are only 4 albums that could beat this one out for No. 1 and one of them just so happened to drop in 1994. It’s my No. 5 album of all time. Great production, unbelievable lyrics and no filler. How can you skip any track on this album? You simply can’t.
1. Ready To Die – The Notorious B.I.G.
My No. 4 album of all time, that’s why it edges out Illmatic for the No. 1 spot in 1994. And while some would argue that Illmatic is better, Ready To Die is really deserving of the top spot for this year. Not only did Biggie take over hip-hop in ’94 with this album and his appearance on the “Flava N Ya Ear (Remix),” this is the masterpiece of one of music’s biggest icons. This had something for everyone and showed how versatile Biggie was. He could make songs for the radio without selling out (“Juicy,” “Big Poppa”), deliver gutter, hardcore East Coast shit (“Gimme The Loot,” “The What”), drop something for true hip-hop heads (“Unbelievable”) and bring conceptual gems (“Warning,” “Suicidal Thoughts”). Lyrically, every song has quotables and the production team of Easy Mo Bee, The Hitmen, DJ Premier and Lord Finesse brought some unforgettable beats to match the unbelievable gifts of Biggie.
’94’s a wrap. So much incredible music. My favorite song ever, as well as my No. 4 & 5 albums of all time. I’m not sure there will be a year with better songs. We’ll see what ’95 has to offer though. See ya in a few days. (On a side note, I had iTunes on shuffle while I was writing this and as I was finishing “Warning” came on. No lie. It must be a sign.)
Best of 1994
Best Songs
20. “The Most Beautifullest Thing In The World” – Keith Murray
Murray has always been on the lyrical tip and he flexes his vocabulary on his debut single. Erick Sermon offers the perfect backdrop for Murray to bend the English language on.
19. “I Seen A Man Die” – Scarface
This is a great story from ‘Face. The song’s about a man who is finally released from prison and hopes to live a better life. Instead, he reverts back to a world of crime and ends up getting murdered. The beat is sinister on this and Scarface’s vocals are chilling.
18. “Crooklyn” – Crooklyn Dodgers
Consisting of Buckshot, Special Ed & Masta Ace, this supergroup dropped the theme song to Spike Lee’s Crooklyn. Loved all three on this song, but Ace steals it with his final verse about ‘70’s TV icons running the streets.
17. “I Used To Love H.E.R.” – Common
Perhaps the greatest ode to hip-hop itself, Common portrays hip-hop as his girlfriend and takes you on a journey through hip-hop’s history. From underground, to conscience, to gangsta rap, hip-hop has evolved and been represented in so many forms and Common touches on all of it here.
16. “Back In The Day” – Ahmad
I was a huge fan of Ahmad back in ’94. He brought a different sound out of the West Coast and was more of any everyday rapper. This is his only hit record and it is a great throwback to the wonder years. I can relate to the hook even more in 2011, “Back in the days when I was young, I’m not a kid anymore/But some days I sit and wish I was a kid again.”
15. “Without A Doubt” – Black Sheep
The Sheep brought a much different sound on their second album, Non-Fiction. A lot of soulful joints on the album and it never got the credit it deserved. This was the lead single and Dres is fantastic on this one. I can listen to this track any day at any time and nod my head along and smile.
14. “Wrong Side Of The Tracks” – Artifacts
How could I forget two of Jersey's finest? This song was about bombing, which was a nice throwback to the origins of hip-hop culture. The horns on this song are ridiculous. Tame and El are incredibly dope and I'm hoping the reunion rumors are true.
13. “Regulate” – Warren G. & Nate Dogg
What really needs to be said about this song? It’s a hip-hop classic. Non hip-hop fans can recite this word for word. And sampling Michael McDonald? Not exactly what I would expect for the G-Funk era, but damn did Nate kill it with his silky smooth vocals.
12. “DWYCK” – Gang Starr feat. Nice & Smooth
A freestyle from Guru, Greg Nice and Smooth B over a classic Primo beat. So many memorable lines from this song. “Lemonade was a popular drink and it still is/I get more props and stunts than Bruce Willis.” It’s hip-hop in its rawest, barebones form and it is one of the finest representations of what true hip-hop is.
11. “How Long Will They Mourn Me?” – Thug Life feat. Nate Dogg
Nate Dogg is back, this time along with 2Pac and his Thug Life gang. Pac is terrific on this track as he talks about his fallen friend over some organs. Definitely one of my favorite Pac songs and Nate Dogg was the perfect choice for the hook.
10. “Claimin’ I’m A Criminal” – Brand Nubian
Dope, dope, dope, dope, dope shit right here. Lord Jamar starts the song with a verse about the police kicking in his mother’s door to arrest him for educating the black youth through his music. Sadat X follows with a tale of being behind bars and losing everything, including his wife, children and his “casual freedom.” X goes on with, “A million inmates but your still alone/You’re not crying, but inside you’re dying/You might cry in the night/When you’re safe and outta sight.” How cold is that?
9. “1-800-Suicide” – The Gravediggaz
From a production standpoint, this is one of the best songs of ’94. Prince Paul absolutely killed it with this beat. Lyrically Frukwan and Too Poetic deliver, but it’s RZA on the final verse that is the true show stealer as he offers up ways for six “apprentices” to off themselves. He then ends the verse with,“More graves to dig, goodbye/There’s no need to cry/Because we all die,” which leads into some Vincent Price-esque laughter.
8. “Flava In Ya Ear (Remix)” – Craig Mack feat. Notorious B.I.G., Rampage, LL Cool J & Busta Rhymes
Not surprisingly another one of the best posse cuts ever made involved Busta Rhymes. From the opening with Puff saying “Bad Boys, come out and play” to Biggie ripping up the first verse this song grabbed your attention immediately and never let go. The original is worthy of this list as well, but Mack got murdered on his own shit by both Biggie and Busta.
7. “Maintain” – Organized Konfusion
To this day I probably listen to this song at least once every few months. I own over 1,000 CDs. My iPod has well over 10,000 songs on it. And yet, I find myself putting this song on that frequently. Prince Po’s opening verse is solid, but it’s Pharoahe Monch that takes this song to another level. Starting the second verse in song and then following that with a description of what should be an everyday task turning sour due to the color of his skin is some dope, introspective shit.
6. “Player’s Ball” – Outkast
The song that brought the best duo in hip-hop to us all. There is no better Southern rap act and I can’t think of a better 1-2 punch in hip-hop than Andre 3000 and Big Boi. They were in their late teens when this song was made. A couple of Southern players riding around in caddy’s with a smokeout in the back seat. This was originally a Christmas song, which still cracks me up to this day.
5. “Nappy Heads (Remix)” – The Fugees
The song that was No. 1 on my 30 greatest remix list, Wyclef, Lauryn and Pras find the right formula on this track. The rest of their debut album was mostly a miss, but this song helped save their career and set them up for superstardom with 1996’s The Score.
4. “N.Y. State of Mind” – Nas
Illmatic had no flaws. None. You could pick any song off that album and put it on this list and it would be justified. I can understand why someone would pick “The World Is Yours,” “One Love” or “Represent.” Or maybe the lead single, “Ain’t Hard To Tell.” But this song is my favorite Nas song of all time. Lyrically, it is one of the best songs in hip-hop history. And from a production standpoint, DJ Premier delivers one of his finest beats. This is hip-hop perfection.
3. “Time’s Up” – O.C.
Perhaps the illest beat I’ve ever heard. It’s unbelievable. There’s nothing fancy or flashy about it. It’s raw, bare bones production and it’s perfection. Not surprising it’s Buckwild on the beat. What’s more incredible is O.C. isn’t shown up by the beat. He absolutely rips it on this. I wouldn’t want to hear this beat with anyone but O.C. Just like Nas & Primo on “N.Y. State of Mind,” O.C. & Buckwild made the perfect hip-hop song in “Time’s Up.”
2. “Warning” – The Notorious B.I.G.
I understand the significance of “Juicy.” I also understand how unbelievably dope “Juicy” is. I wanted to include “Juicy” on this list. But “Warning” is my favorite Biggie song and I had to stay true to myself and not go with the popular pick. “Who the fuck is this?/Pagin’ me at 5:46…” The concept of this song is truly original as Biggie receives a call from his man Pop from the Barbershop and the two discuss a rumored plan about Biggie’s murder. It’s hard hitting, head noddin’ and the story is as good as they come. This song made me a Biggie fan and there’s nothing more that needs to be said.
1. “Bring The Pain” – Method Man
This is my favorite song of all time. I love the production. I love the lyrics. I loved the video. I love the song title. I love Booster’s appearance for the hook. I love that Meth incorporated the torture skit from 36 Chambers for the end of the song. I love the opening line. I love everything about this song. Some people sing in the shower. I recite the lyrics to “Bring The Pain” in the shower. True story. I have listened to this song for 17 years now and I’ve never grown tired of it. I’ve never skipped it when my iPod’s on shuffle and I doubt I ever will.
Best Albums
10. Dare Iz A Darkside – Redman
Originally had “Rockafella” on the top 20 song list, but had to bump it from the list. Just too many great songs in '94. Redman’s first three albums were all fantastic and this one definitely lived up to his debut. “Noorotic,” “Cosmic Slop,” “Green Island,” and “Wuditlooklike” were all crazy good. And “Can’t Wait” is one of Redman’s finest. The video was terrific with Red dressed up as a grown baby and his last verse is sensational.
9. Resurrection – Common
This is underground hip-hop at it’s finest. And it’s been a long time since Common and underground were uttered in the same sentence. I’m happy Common made it big. He deserved it. And he still hasn’t sold out despite his fame. Not only did this album contain “I Used To Love H.E.R.,” it had other standouts like the title track, “Thisisme,” and “Chapter 13 (Rich Man vs. Poor Man).” And the track that I will always remember is “Sum Shit I Wrote” which was the name of the column written by the late Dave Ellis, who wrote weekly features about hip-hop that were as personal and genuine as you could find on his site, Hip-Hop-Reviewz.
8. Hard To Earn – Gang Starr
My second favorite Gang Starr album. This album is chock full of great songs. I am seriously debating switching “DWYCK” for “Code of the Streets” on the top 20 song list as we speak. I may change it before I finish writing this section. That’s how damn good those two songs both were. I’ll leave it as is, but “DWYCK” is 1a and “Code of the Streets” is 1b. It’s that close. And I’d have “Mass Appeal,” “Speak Ya Clout,” and “Suckas Need Bodyguards” as 2a, 2b and 2c. Damn, I love “F.A.L.A.” with Big Shug as well. This album was ridiculously dope. Some of Premo’s best beats and Lord knows he’s had a Hall of Fame career.
7. The Diary – Scarface
I straight up loved this album. Great southern hip-hop. Great gangsta rap. ‘Face is one of the greatest to ever do it. This is my favorite Scarface album by far. “Jesse James,” “I Seen A Man Die,” “Goin Down,” and “Mind Playin’ Tricks ‘94” are all terrific. The Ice Cube assisted “Hand of the Dead Body” breaks down censorship and politicians against violence in hip-hop music, to which ‘Face says, “Gangsta Nip, Spice 1 or 2Pac never gave a gun to me/So gangsta rap ain’t done shit for that/I’ve seen white folks from River Oaks go get the gat.” Dope.
6. Stress: Extinction Agenda – Organized Konfusion
I’ve already mentioned how much I love “Maintain,” but the whole album is tremendous. The title track introduced me to Prince Po & Pharoahe Monch, while the b-side to that single, “Keep It Koming,” was also solid. “Stray Bullet” is one of the most original concept songs ever made and Pharoahe’s verse from the perspective of the bullet is mind blowing. No pun intended.
5. 6 Feet Deep – The Gravediggaz
The idea of “horror-core” as it was known was a unique twist on gangsta rap. The Flatlinerz, Half Pit Half Dead and others brought satanic verses over haunting production. And it was kind of dope. But no one did it better than the Gravediggaz. Putting two geniuses like Prince Paul and RZA together for a concept album could only lead to greatness and the 6 Feet Deep didn’t disappoint. On “Nowhere To Run, Nowhere To Hide,” RZA includes a Wu-Tang tease, while Wu affiliates Killah Priest and Shabazz The Disciple join the fun on “Diary of the Madman,” in which RZA chews his own arm off to escape from certain death. This album was unique in every way and still stands out on its own today.
4. Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik – Outkast
Outkast has evolved so much since their debut, but this was about 2 dope boys in a Cadillac, making Southern playa music. Okay, so I just wrote that and realized I pretty much just rewrote the name of the album. I guess they got their point across. So many memorable songs from this album including the title track, “Player’s Ball,” “Claimin’ True,” “Ain’t No Thang” and “Hootie Hoo.” Outkast also introduced us to Cee-Lo and Big Gip on “Git Up, Git Out.” Organized Noize provided the production for all the early Dugeon Family releases and are credited with dozens of classics. Their sound fit Andre & Big Boi perfectly as this was a glimpse of more greatness that would come from Outkast.
3. Tical – Method Man
It not only contains my favorite song of all time, it’s a classic hip-hop album. With Only Built For Cuban Linx and Liquid Swords both dropping to critical acclaim in 1995, I feel Tical became the forgotten Wu classic of that era. It was mostly just Meth rhyming over RZA production, with the exception of a few collaborations, including the fantastic “Meth vs. Chef,” with Raekwon. The first eight tracks on the album are as good as any you’ll find on any Wu-Tang album, and “Mr. Sandman” and “Method Man (Remix)” help to close the album out on a high note. Seriously, if you haven’t heard this album in a while, go give it a listen and you’ll be reminded how unbelievably dope Meth was back in ’94.
2. Illmatic – Nas
How can this be No. 2? It’s the definition of hip-hop. A flawless debut. Nas has never been better and he’s one of the greatest of all time. What does that tell you? There are only 4 albums that could beat this one out for No. 1 and one of them just so happened to drop in 1994. It’s my No. 5 album of all time. Great production, unbelievable lyrics and no filler. How can you skip any track on this album? You simply can’t.
1. Ready To Die – The Notorious B.I.G.
My No. 4 album of all time, that’s why it edges out Illmatic for the No. 1 spot in 1994. And while some would argue that Illmatic is better, Ready To Die is really deserving of the top spot for this year. Not only did Biggie take over hip-hop in ’94 with this album and his appearance on the “Flava N Ya Ear (Remix),” this is the masterpiece of one of music’s biggest icons. This had something for everyone and showed how versatile Biggie was. He could make songs for the radio without selling out (“Juicy,” “Big Poppa”), deliver gutter, hardcore East Coast shit (“Gimme The Loot,” “The What”), drop something for true hip-hop heads (“Unbelievable”) and bring conceptual gems (“Warning,” “Suicidal Thoughts”). Lyrically, every song has quotables and the production team of Easy Mo Bee, The Hitmen, DJ Premier and Lord Finesse brought some unforgettable beats to match the unbelievable gifts of Biggie.
’94’s a wrap. So much incredible music. My favorite song ever, as well as my No. 4 & 5 albums of all time. I’m not sure there will be a year with better songs. We’ll see what ’95 has to offer though. See ya in a few days. (On a side note, I had iTunes on shuffle while I was writing this and as I was finishing “Warning” came on. No lie. It must be a sign.)
Song of the Day
Royce Da 5'9 feat. Eminem - "Writer's Block"
Do I have a new fan? Just found this one online. Royce is a beast on this one. True spit from Nickel. Em only drops the hook, would've loved to hear him spit a verse and then had the two go back and forth. That would've been ill. This is still real nice though.
Do I have a new fan? Just found this one online. Royce is a beast on this one. True spit from Nickel. Em only drops the hook, would've loved to hear him spit a verse and then had the two go back and forth. That would've been ill. This is still real nice though.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
The Best Hip-Hop Songs & Albums: 1993
Time for a look at 1993. This year brought my favorite album of all time and one of my absolute favorite songs ever made. It had a good mix of East Coast and West Coat hip-hop, as well as commercial and underground masterpieces. Same rules apply as ’91 & ’92. 20 songs, 10 albums. Let’s get it.
Best of 1993
Best Songs
20. “Reign of the Tec” – The Beatnuts
My introduction to the Beatnuts, who have gone on to be one of the most consistent, most criminally slept on and one of my favorite hip-hop acts to ever do it. The ‘Nuts have produced some of the best beats ever and this is one of them. Super hard hitting and the Sadat X sample for the hook is perfect.
19. “Punks Jump Up To Get Beat Down” – Brand Nubian
And where did the Sadat X sample for “Reign of the Tec” come from? The remix to this Brand Nubian classic. Song starts with some Rocky-sounding horns and then leads to a neck snapping beat. This is some hardcore shit from the Nubian and Sadat X & Lord Jamar bring the fire as per usual.
18. “Make Room” – The Alkaholiks
This song smacks you in the face. And it’s tremendous. ’93 will see a lot of hip-hop groups as opposed to solo acts and it was also a year for a lot of new acts to surface. The ‘Liks made their way onto the scene in ’93 and have since brought us Xzibit, Defari and a rejuvenated King Tee (who first put the ‘Liks on with 1992’s “Got It Bad Y’all.”)
17. “Cock The Hammer” – Cypress Hill
Cypress hit another home run with ‘93’s Black Sunday. And while “Insane In The Brain” is their most famous song, “Cock The Hammer” is what made me a Cypress fan. There’s just something about the way the song starts out. The thunderstorm, then the bass, the horns and the drums setting in all leading up to Sen Dog’s verse. It’s chilling music and I love it as much now as I did when I heard it in ’93.
16. “93 ‘Til Infinity” – Souls of Mischief
Some more West Coast hip-hop, but with a sound all to its own. Souls of Mischief, and the Heiroglyphics crew, made some really dope music. This is one of the most recognizable beats of the ‘90’s and has been used many times over by other artist’s for freestyles, but none better than the original.
15. “Sound of the Police” – KRS-One
This beat goes hard. Just a tremendous backdrop and as ‘90’s as they come. The Teacher breaks down racial profiling and police brutality with thought-provoking lyrics. KRS is hype on this track and delivers a strong message. Really dope hip-hop.
14. “Ego Trippin’” – De La Soul
Where are these songs in today’s hip-hop? Seriously. I feel like all the tracks so far grab you right away and never let go. I’m pretty sure the lyrics in this song have been used 100 times over by other artists. LL Cool J even made Posdnuos’ opening line into a song (“I’m something like a phenomenon”) This was also the beat used for the opening of the late night rap video show, Urban Xpressions, which I used to watch on Saturday nights.
13. “Down With The King” – Run DMC feat. Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth
This was Run DMC making music according to the sounds of the time. While the album wasn’t a success, this song hit it right on the head. This sounds right at home alongside the other great songs released in ’93 and teaming with Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth was the right decision.
12. “Streiht Up Menace” – MC Eiht
Off the Menace II Society soundtrack, this is the best song Eiht made. The piano on this track is terrific and Eiht paints a perfect picture of growing up in the ‘hood. Lyrically, this is as strong as any track that came out. It actually played out much like the movie itself. Kind of like “Lose Yourself” 11 years before “Lose Yourself” was ever recorded. “Wake yo punkass up for the ’93 shot.”
11. “Born To Roll” – Masta Ace
This song makes me want to put a system in my car. I have blasted this in every car I’ve owned and cranked it up on every pair of speakers I’ve had. The beat is just ridiculous. And Ace’s lyrics are tremendous. The third verse is my favorite as Ace discusses police harassing him for blasting his music. “But you know my name, so you’ll never hear no Elvis.”
10. “Hip-Hop Hooray” – Naughty By Nature
Naughty was great at making hip-hop anthems. “O.P.P” was a huge part of pop culture in the ‘90’s and “Hip-Hop Hooray” was the perfect follow up as the lead single for Naughty’s second album. If you listen to hip-hop music, hell even if you don’t, I guarantee that at one point in your life (most likely to be dozens of times) you have waved your hands back and forth, while singing the chorus along with Treach. This remains one of my favorite beats ever as well.
9. “Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat)” – Digable Planets
Speaking of my favorite beats ever made, this is as good as they come. The finger snappin’ intro, the bass, the horns, it’s hip-hop over jazz. And it’s as smooth as any hip-hop record ever released. Digable was one of the dopest groups of the ‘90’s and never got their due. They brought a jazz, funk twist to hip-hop. If they were around in the ‘70’s I would imagine they’d bring a similar sound.
8. “I Got Cha Opin (Remix)” – Black Moon
Black Moon burst on the scene in a major way in ’93 with the classic Enta Da Stage. There were a handful of songs I could’ve picked for this list. Ironically, it was a remix that didn’t appear on the album that gets the nod here. This was, is and always will be one of my favorite hip-hop songs. The horns to open the track grabbed me the first time I ever heard it and I’ve loved it ever since.
7. “Party & Bullshit” – Biggie Smalls
Before he was the Notorious B.I.G., Biggie made a splash on the Who’s The Man? soundtrack with this party starter. This is as raw as you’ll ever hear from Biggie. He is ferocious on this track and absolutely rips the beat to shreds. My favorite Biggie song was yet to come, but this is definitely in my top 10 of his career.
6. “Throw Ya Gunz” – Onyx
“Slam” ushered in the Mad Face Invasion, but this is a truer representation of the type of music Onyx was about to bring. While “Slam” had that rah-rah feel, “Throw Ya Gunz” was just flat out mean. Sticky Fingaz sums it up best, “I hate your f-ckin’ guts and I hope that ya die.” That about says it all. Sticky is great.
5. “I Get Around” – 2Pac feat. Digital Underground
I’m not sure I can pick my favorite ‘Pac song, but this would definitely be in the conversation. “Same Song,” “Brenda’s Got A Baby” and “If My Homie Calls” brought 2Pac some exposure, but “I Get Around” and “Keep Ya Head Up” brought him to the mainstream. Those two tracks summed up Pac’s career perfectly as one is an ode to being a player, while the other encourages women to respect themselves and not let men keep them down.
4. “Gin & Juice” – Snoop Doggy Dogg
Pick any song off Doggystyle and you can’t go wrong. The album had no weak spot. And Snoop’s star had already risen, but I don’t know of any Snoop Dogg solo track that can top this one. It’s a terrific party song and has one of the best videos you’ll find. “With so much drama in the LBC/It’s kinda hard being Snoop D-O-double G.” Classic.
3. “Award Tour” – A Tribe Called Quest
Serving as the first single off Midnight Marauders, this was also the single that would follow in the giant footsteps of 1991’s “Scenario.” I don’t put it up at the next level along with “Scenario” but it’s still a classic. Love Tip’s verse to open the song.
2. “Protect Ya Neck” – Wu-Tang Clan
Nothing sounded like this. NOTHING. As raw as they come. It’s a song with 8 super MC’s trying to outdo one another. My favorite verses in order are Inspectah Deck, Method Man, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Genius, Rza, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah and then U-God. And that may’ve been one of the hardest lists I had to put together. How can that many great MCs all be in the same group? Ridiculous.
1. “Chief Rocka” – Lords of the Underground
Probably in my top 5 favorite songs of all time. At least in my top 10. Had a website over 10 years ago about hip-hop and the quote I used at the top of that site was taken from this song. It is everything a hip-hop song is supposed to be. Great beat, scratches for the hook, tremendous lyrics, it has it all. DoItAll’s verse is perfect: “I got too much soul, rhythm and blues/R&B, ya see all that’s cool/But hip-hop and rap/Yeah that’s where my heart’s at/Even back when I used to break on a box.”
Best Albums
10. Return of the Boom-Bap – KRS-One
This was KRS’ first solo album. No more Boogie Down Productions, which had brought us so many classics. But the Teacher holds his ground and delivers with this one. “Sound of the Police,” “Black Cop” and “Outta Here” are the highlights of this superb album.
9. Buhloone Mindstate – De La Soul
De La always marched to the beat of their own drum and this album was no exception. At a time when hip-hop was mostly hardcore, the Plugs brought an alternative sound. And while it wasn’t commercially accepted, Buhloone Mindstate won over critics much like 3 Feet High & Rising and De La Soul Is Dead before it.
8. Black Sunday – Cypress Hill
Tough to pick between their debut and Black Sunday. Should probably ask my brother since he loved both (if I had to guess, I’d say he picks their debut). This was a little darker, but had so many great songs. “I Ain’t Goin’ Out Like That,” “Insane In The Brain,” “When The Shit Goes Down,” “Cock The Hammer,” and “Lick A Shot” are all standouts. And of course there’s the stoner anthems “I Wanna Get High” and “Hits From The Bong” for all you grass aficionados.
7. Here Come The Lords – Lords of the Underground
“Chief Rocka” scores this album major points with me, but it’s still a really solid album. “Funky Child” would’ve made the top 20 if not for “Chief Rocka” and “Sleep For Dinner” was one of my favorites as a kid. There was just something about having to go to bed without dinner that any kid could relate to.
6. Bacdafucup – Onyx
This was just mean. The hook to “Shifftee” describes this whole album. Sticky Fingaz remains one of the most underrated MCs ever. He is responsible for so many classic verses and was the true star of Onyx. Along with M.O.P., Onyx brought more energy and intensity to hip-hop than anyone else.
5. Enta Da Stage – Black Moon
My favorite Black Moon song was a remix that didn’t appear on this classic, so that hurts this just slightly. That’s the only negative to be said about the album. Buckshot was one of the finest MCs of the early ‘90’s and the Beatminerz produced two classics with Enta Da Stage and Smif-N-Wessun’s Dah Shinin’. “Who Got Da Props,” “Buck Em Down” and “How Many MC’s” were all hip-hop anthems back in ’93. Add the Smif-n-Wessun assisted “Black Smif-n-Wessun” and “U Da Man” which also featured a very young Havoc of Mobb Deep and you have the recipe for greatness.
4. Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z. – 2Pac
Much like 1991’s 2Pacalypse Now, there are better Pac albums out there, but I felt like 2Pac really came into his own on this one. “I Get Around” and “Keep Ya Head Up” both had commercial success to go along with some other great tracks like “Papaz Song” and “Last Wordz” which featured both Ice Cube and Ice-T. 2Pac touched on a lot of topics on this album and did so with the type of passion he would become famous for.
3. Midnight Marauders – A Tribe Called Quest
People’s Instinctive Travels and The Low End Theory are regarded as hip-hop classics, but this is my favorite Tribe album. The others are great. There’s no question. But from start to finish I prefer Midnight Marauders. “Steve Biko,” “Award Tour,” “Sucka Nigga,” “We Can Get Down,” “Electric Relaxation,” “Oh My God” are my favorites off the album and would all be worthy of top 20 status on the Best of ’93 list. I immediately want to listen to this album again.
2. Doggystyle – Snoop Doggy Dogg
This album is in my top 10 of all time. It isn’t The Chronic, but it’s the closest Snoop or Dre have come since The Chronic. I don’t miss any artist more than I miss the Snoop of ’93. He has gone on to be much more than just a hip-hop artist. He is an icon now. Snoop’s bigger than music and it shows in his music. It’s just not the same. This album was flawless. Starting with “Gin & Juice” and ending with “Pump Pump” there are no songs that fall short. My favorites are “Gin & Juice,” “Tha Shiznit,” “Lodi Dodi” and “Gz And Hustlas.”
1. Enter The 36 Chambers – Wu-Tang Clan
My favorite album ever made. I had never heard anything like it and doubt I ever will. This album was raw, stripped down, unique in every way and had some of the greatest and hungriest MCs to ever do it rhyming over some of the best production in hip-hop history. No one else could’ve made better beats for this album than the sound RZA brought. Think about this, had the Wu, or Loud Records for that matter, reached out to DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Buckwild or Da Beatminerz to make beats for this album it would’ve HURT the album. Those are some of the greatest beat makers that ever lived. But none of their sounds would’ve paired as well with Meth, Deck, Rae, Ghost, Ol’ Dirty, GZA or U-God. And think of all the classic Wu songs and albums that spawned from 36 Chambers. This album changed the sound of hip-hop forever. Pick any song off the album as your favorite and you’re right. They are all as good as the next. I was gonna go listen to Midnight Marauders. Now I’ve changed my mind. I need to hear this album right now.
So there it is, the Best of ’93. Some major debuts to come in ’94 and another one of my Top 5 albums of all time will be on the list, as well as my favorite song of all time. Should have that up in a few days.
Best of 1993
Best Songs
20. “Reign of the Tec” – The Beatnuts
My introduction to the Beatnuts, who have gone on to be one of the most consistent, most criminally slept on and one of my favorite hip-hop acts to ever do it. The ‘Nuts have produced some of the best beats ever and this is one of them. Super hard hitting and the Sadat X sample for the hook is perfect.
19. “Punks Jump Up To Get Beat Down” – Brand Nubian
And where did the Sadat X sample for “Reign of the Tec” come from? The remix to this Brand Nubian classic. Song starts with some Rocky-sounding horns and then leads to a neck snapping beat. This is some hardcore shit from the Nubian and Sadat X & Lord Jamar bring the fire as per usual.
18. “Make Room” – The Alkaholiks
This song smacks you in the face. And it’s tremendous. ’93 will see a lot of hip-hop groups as opposed to solo acts and it was also a year for a lot of new acts to surface. The ‘Liks made their way onto the scene in ’93 and have since brought us Xzibit, Defari and a rejuvenated King Tee (who first put the ‘Liks on with 1992’s “Got It Bad Y’all.”)
17. “Cock The Hammer” – Cypress Hill
Cypress hit another home run with ‘93’s Black Sunday. And while “Insane In The Brain” is their most famous song, “Cock The Hammer” is what made me a Cypress fan. There’s just something about the way the song starts out. The thunderstorm, then the bass, the horns and the drums setting in all leading up to Sen Dog’s verse. It’s chilling music and I love it as much now as I did when I heard it in ’93.
16. “93 ‘Til Infinity” – Souls of Mischief
Some more West Coast hip-hop, but with a sound all to its own. Souls of Mischief, and the Heiroglyphics crew, made some really dope music. This is one of the most recognizable beats of the ‘90’s and has been used many times over by other artist’s for freestyles, but none better than the original.
15. “Sound of the Police” – KRS-One
This beat goes hard. Just a tremendous backdrop and as ‘90’s as they come. The Teacher breaks down racial profiling and police brutality with thought-provoking lyrics. KRS is hype on this track and delivers a strong message. Really dope hip-hop.
14. “Ego Trippin’” – De La Soul
Where are these songs in today’s hip-hop? Seriously. I feel like all the tracks so far grab you right away and never let go. I’m pretty sure the lyrics in this song have been used 100 times over by other artists. LL Cool J even made Posdnuos’ opening line into a song (“I’m something like a phenomenon”) This was also the beat used for the opening of the late night rap video show, Urban Xpressions, which I used to watch on Saturday nights.
13. “Down With The King” – Run DMC feat. Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth
This was Run DMC making music according to the sounds of the time. While the album wasn’t a success, this song hit it right on the head. This sounds right at home alongside the other great songs released in ’93 and teaming with Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth was the right decision.
12. “Streiht Up Menace” – MC Eiht
Off the Menace II Society soundtrack, this is the best song Eiht made. The piano on this track is terrific and Eiht paints a perfect picture of growing up in the ‘hood. Lyrically, this is as strong as any track that came out. It actually played out much like the movie itself. Kind of like “Lose Yourself” 11 years before “Lose Yourself” was ever recorded. “Wake yo punkass up for the ’93 shot.”
11. “Born To Roll” – Masta Ace
This song makes me want to put a system in my car. I have blasted this in every car I’ve owned and cranked it up on every pair of speakers I’ve had. The beat is just ridiculous. And Ace’s lyrics are tremendous. The third verse is my favorite as Ace discusses police harassing him for blasting his music. “But you know my name, so you’ll never hear no Elvis.”
10. “Hip-Hop Hooray” – Naughty By Nature
Naughty was great at making hip-hop anthems. “O.P.P” was a huge part of pop culture in the ‘90’s and “Hip-Hop Hooray” was the perfect follow up as the lead single for Naughty’s second album. If you listen to hip-hop music, hell even if you don’t, I guarantee that at one point in your life (most likely to be dozens of times) you have waved your hands back and forth, while singing the chorus along with Treach. This remains one of my favorite beats ever as well.
9. “Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat)” – Digable Planets
Speaking of my favorite beats ever made, this is as good as they come. The finger snappin’ intro, the bass, the horns, it’s hip-hop over jazz. And it’s as smooth as any hip-hop record ever released. Digable was one of the dopest groups of the ‘90’s and never got their due. They brought a jazz, funk twist to hip-hop. If they were around in the ‘70’s I would imagine they’d bring a similar sound.
8. “I Got Cha Opin (Remix)” – Black Moon
Black Moon burst on the scene in a major way in ’93 with the classic Enta Da Stage. There were a handful of songs I could’ve picked for this list. Ironically, it was a remix that didn’t appear on the album that gets the nod here. This was, is and always will be one of my favorite hip-hop songs. The horns to open the track grabbed me the first time I ever heard it and I’ve loved it ever since.
7. “Party & Bullshit” – Biggie Smalls
Before he was the Notorious B.I.G., Biggie made a splash on the Who’s The Man? soundtrack with this party starter. This is as raw as you’ll ever hear from Biggie. He is ferocious on this track and absolutely rips the beat to shreds. My favorite Biggie song was yet to come, but this is definitely in my top 10 of his career.
6. “Throw Ya Gunz” – Onyx
“Slam” ushered in the Mad Face Invasion, but this is a truer representation of the type of music Onyx was about to bring. While “Slam” had that rah-rah feel, “Throw Ya Gunz” was just flat out mean. Sticky Fingaz sums it up best, “I hate your f-ckin’ guts and I hope that ya die.” That about says it all. Sticky is great.
5. “I Get Around” – 2Pac feat. Digital Underground
I’m not sure I can pick my favorite ‘Pac song, but this would definitely be in the conversation. “Same Song,” “Brenda’s Got A Baby” and “If My Homie Calls” brought 2Pac some exposure, but “I Get Around” and “Keep Ya Head Up” brought him to the mainstream. Those two tracks summed up Pac’s career perfectly as one is an ode to being a player, while the other encourages women to respect themselves and not let men keep them down.
4. “Gin & Juice” – Snoop Doggy Dogg
Pick any song off Doggystyle and you can’t go wrong. The album had no weak spot. And Snoop’s star had already risen, but I don’t know of any Snoop Dogg solo track that can top this one. It’s a terrific party song and has one of the best videos you’ll find. “With so much drama in the LBC/It’s kinda hard being Snoop D-O-double G.” Classic.
3. “Award Tour” – A Tribe Called Quest
Serving as the first single off Midnight Marauders, this was also the single that would follow in the giant footsteps of 1991’s “Scenario.” I don’t put it up at the next level along with “Scenario” but it’s still a classic. Love Tip’s verse to open the song.
2. “Protect Ya Neck” – Wu-Tang Clan
Nothing sounded like this. NOTHING. As raw as they come. It’s a song with 8 super MC’s trying to outdo one another. My favorite verses in order are Inspectah Deck, Method Man, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Genius, Rza, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah and then U-God. And that may’ve been one of the hardest lists I had to put together. How can that many great MCs all be in the same group? Ridiculous.
1. “Chief Rocka” – Lords of the Underground
Probably in my top 5 favorite songs of all time. At least in my top 10. Had a website over 10 years ago about hip-hop and the quote I used at the top of that site was taken from this song. It is everything a hip-hop song is supposed to be. Great beat, scratches for the hook, tremendous lyrics, it has it all. DoItAll’s verse is perfect: “I got too much soul, rhythm and blues/R&B, ya see all that’s cool/But hip-hop and rap/Yeah that’s where my heart’s at/Even back when I used to break on a box.”
Best Albums
10. Return of the Boom-Bap – KRS-One
This was KRS’ first solo album. No more Boogie Down Productions, which had brought us so many classics. But the Teacher holds his ground and delivers with this one. “Sound of the Police,” “Black Cop” and “Outta Here” are the highlights of this superb album.
9. Buhloone Mindstate – De La Soul
De La always marched to the beat of their own drum and this album was no exception. At a time when hip-hop was mostly hardcore, the Plugs brought an alternative sound. And while it wasn’t commercially accepted, Buhloone Mindstate won over critics much like 3 Feet High & Rising and De La Soul Is Dead before it.
8. Black Sunday – Cypress Hill
Tough to pick between their debut and Black Sunday. Should probably ask my brother since he loved both (if I had to guess, I’d say he picks their debut). This was a little darker, but had so many great songs. “I Ain’t Goin’ Out Like That,” “Insane In The Brain,” “When The Shit Goes Down,” “Cock The Hammer,” and “Lick A Shot” are all standouts. And of course there’s the stoner anthems “I Wanna Get High” and “Hits From The Bong” for all you grass aficionados.
7. Here Come The Lords – Lords of the Underground
“Chief Rocka” scores this album major points with me, but it’s still a really solid album. “Funky Child” would’ve made the top 20 if not for “Chief Rocka” and “Sleep For Dinner” was one of my favorites as a kid. There was just something about having to go to bed without dinner that any kid could relate to.
6. Bacdafucup – Onyx
This was just mean. The hook to “Shifftee” describes this whole album. Sticky Fingaz remains one of the most underrated MCs ever. He is responsible for so many classic verses and was the true star of Onyx. Along with M.O.P., Onyx brought more energy and intensity to hip-hop than anyone else.
5. Enta Da Stage – Black Moon
My favorite Black Moon song was a remix that didn’t appear on this classic, so that hurts this just slightly. That’s the only negative to be said about the album. Buckshot was one of the finest MCs of the early ‘90’s and the Beatminerz produced two classics with Enta Da Stage and Smif-N-Wessun’s Dah Shinin’. “Who Got Da Props,” “Buck Em Down” and “How Many MC’s” were all hip-hop anthems back in ’93. Add the Smif-n-Wessun assisted “Black Smif-n-Wessun” and “U Da Man” which also featured a very young Havoc of Mobb Deep and you have the recipe for greatness.
4. Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z. – 2Pac
Much like 1991’s 2Pacalypse Now, there are better Pac albums out there, but I felt like 2Pac really came into his own on this one. “I Get Around” and “Keep Ya Head Up” both had commercial success to go along with some other great tracks like “Papaz Song” and “Last Wordz” which featured both Ice Cube and Ice-T. 2Pac touched on a lot of topics on this album and did so with the type of passion he would become famous for.
3. Midnight Marauders – A Tribe Called Quest
People’s Instinctive Travels and The Low End Theory are regarded as hip-hop classics, but this is my favorite Tribe album. The others are great. There’s no question. But from start to finish I prefer Midnight Marauders. “Steve Biko,” “Award Tour,” “Sucka Nigga,” “We Can Get Down,” “Electric Relaxation,” “Oh My God” are my favorites off the album and would all be worthy of top 20 status on the Best of ’93 list. I immediately want to listen to this album again.
2. Doggystyle – Snoop Doggy Dogg
This album is in my top 10 of all time. It isn’t The Chronic, but it’s the closest Snoop or Dre have come since The Chronic. I don’t miss any artist more than I miss the Snoop of ’93. He has gone on to be much more than just a hip-hop artist. He is an icon now. Snoop’s bigger than music and it shows in his music. It’s just not the same. This album was flawless. Starting with “Gin & Juice” and ending with “Pump Pump” there are no songs that fall short. My favorites are “Gin & Juice,” “Tha Shiznit,” “Lodi Dodi” and “Gz And Hustlas.”
1. Enter The 36 Chambers – Wu-Tang Clan
My favorite album ever made. I had never heard anything like it and doubt I ever will. This album was raw, stripped down, unique in every way and had some of the greatest and hungriest MCs to ever do it rhyming over some of the best production in hip-hop history. No one else could’ve made better beats for this album than the sound RZA brought. Think about this, had the Wu, or Loud Records for that matter, reached out to DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Buckwild or Da Beatminerz to make beats for this album it would’ve HURT the album. Those are some of the greatest beat makers that ever lived. But none of their sounds would’ve paired as well with Meth, Deck, Rae, Ghost, Ol’ Dirty, GZA or U-God. And think of all the classic Wu songs and albums that spawned from 36 Chambers. This album changed the sound of hip-hop forever. Pick any song off the album as your favorite and you’re right. They are all as good as the next. I was gonna go listen to Midnight Marauders. Now I’ve changed my mind. I need to hear this album right now.
So there it is, the Best of ’93. Some major debuts to come in ’94 and another one of my Top 5 albums of all time will be on the list, as well as my favorite song of all time. Should have that up in a few days.
Song of the Day
Da Youngstas - "Crewz Pop"
I had to cut this song from the Best of '93 list, but I wasn't happy about it. I love the beat and the hook to this track. Treach's influence is all over this song, as it sounds like a teenage Naughty By Nature. Would've been No. 21 on my list, so here you go. Enjoy this!
I had to cut this song from the Best of '93 list, but I wasn't happy about it. I love the beat and the hook to this track. Treach's influence is all over this song, as it sounds like a teenage Naughty By Nature. Would've been No. 21 on my list, so here you go. Enjoy this!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
New Release Tuesday
A day late, I know, but so what? Here's my picks from April 5th's releases. First is Rapper Big Pooh's latest, Fat Boy Fresh Vol. 1: For Members Only. The first single, "Freebasin," is my Song of the Day and really captures the essence of what Pooh and Little Brother have represented over their career.
From what I've heard off the album, it's what you'd expect from Pooh. No gimmicks, no weak attempts at airplay, just straight hip-hop. Head snapping beats and solid lyrics to match. Little Brother fans don't hesitate on this one. If you're not familiar with Pooh, scoop this one up and then go get some Little Brother albums and enjoy.
Pick No. 2 is Blueprint's Adventures In Counter-Culture.
My biggest concern on this album is production. Lyrically, Blueprint always brings it, but I've grown so accustomed to him working alongside RJD2 for the Soul Position projects, that not rhyming over RJ beats may not sound as fresh. Then again Blueprint's 1988 was fantastic, so there's proof he can stand on his own. I've heard very little from this album so far and it's definitely different from his other work, but that's what makes Blueprint a dope artist. He can change his sound and bring something unique to the table every time out.
From what I've heard off the album, it's what you'd expect from Pooh. No gimmicks, no weak attempts at airplay, just straight hip-hop. Head snapping beats and solid lyrics to match. Little Brother fans don't hesitate on this one. If you're not familiar with Pooh, scoop this one up and then go get some Little Brother albums and enjoy.
Pick No. 2 is Blueprint's Adventures In Counter-Culture.
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