Rapper Big Pooh - "Freebasin"
The first song released off Pooh's latest album, Fat Boy Fresh Vol. 1: For Members Only, which dropped yesterday. This has the classic Little Brother sound to it. So many rumors about Little Brother reuniting and I couldn't be happier if that happened.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Monday, April 4, 2011
Song of the Day
Mobb Deep feat. Nas - "Dog Shit"
Welcome home Prodigy. Mobb comes back with a vengeance on this Alchemist-produced banger. This is some grimy, old school feeling Mobb Deep music.
Welcome home Prodigy. Mobb comes back with a vengeance on this Alchemist-produced banger. This is some grimy, old school feeling Mobb Deep music.
The Best Hip-Hop Songs & Albums: 1992
Now that you know how this is going to work, I’m ready to tackle 1992. But for those that are new to the site, this is my list of the 20 best hip-hop songs from 1992 and the 10 best hip-hop albums. Limit 1 song per album for the top 20 list. So while I wanted to include “F-ck With Dre Day,” “Otha Fish” and “Wicked,” I had to stay true to my formula and leave those tracks off the list. If you still don’t understand, go back and read The Best Hip-Hop Songs and Albums: 1991 for a more detailed explanation.
Alright, enough of the formalities, on to the list.
The Best of ‘92
Best Songs
20. “360 (What Goes Around)” – Grand Puba
Puba went solo in 1992, after breaking away from Brand Nubian. Puba’s biggest solo splash would come on Mary J. Blige’s “What’s The 4-1-1?” (which then got remixed with Biggie), but “360” allowed Puba to show he could stand on his own without Lord Jamar, Sadat X and DJ Alamo.
19. “N 2 Deep” – Compton’s Most Wanted feat. Scarface
You don’t get more gangsta than MC Eiht. Just not possible. Unless you add Scarface to the track. Compton’s Most Wanted was as important to gangsta rap in the ‘90’s as any other act.
18. “Back To The Grill” – MC Serch feat. Chubb Rock, Red Hot Lover Tone & Nas
I debated putting 3rd Base’s Derelicts of Dialect on my Best of ’91 album list because it was certainly one of my favorite albums when it came out. But I haven’t heard the album in over 15 years, so that answered the question on whether it would stand the test of time. Anyway, I was a big Serch fan back in the early ‘90’s and enjoyed his solo effort. This was the standout thanks once again thanks to a certain up and coming MC who stole the show.
17. “Ex Girl To The Next Girl” – Gang Starr
Love the horns on this track. And of course Premo’s scratches for the hook. Guru had a knack for breaking down the rules of relationships as evidenced by this song.
16. “Soul Clap” – Showbiz & A.G.
What hasn’t been used, sampled or stolen from this track to this point? Showbiz and A.G. bring a party anthem that’s a little different from what D.I.T.C. fans of today are used to hearing.
15. “Ill Street Blues” – Kool G. Rap
Seriously, who’s doper than Kool G. Rap on the mic? He earned his spot alongside Rakim and Kane during the early years and remains one of the most respected MCs in the game today. This track is the perfect example of a G. Rap street tale.
14. “Tennessee” – Arrested Development
I loved this song when it came out. It was just so dope. And it still is. I challenge you to a game of horseshoes. A game of HORSESHOES.
13. “Jump Around” – House of Pain
I couldn’t believe there were Irish rappers when this song came out. It was different than anything I had ever heard. 19 years later it remains one of the most recognizable hip-hop songs ever made. It also served as one of our warm up songs for my high school basketball team so it will always have significant meaning to me.
12. “So What’cha Want” – Beastie Boys
Guess what else was on our warm up tape? You guessed it. The Beasties brought a raw sound on this track with distorted mics, feedback and electric guitars. It was different than any other hip-hop song during that era as it crossed over into rock radio as well.
11. “La Schmoove” – Fu-Schnickens feat. Phife Dawg
The Fu-Schnickens may be most famous for their collaboration with then-NBA rookie Shaquille O’Neal on “What’s Up Doc?” but people shouldn’t sleep on their debut album. This track introduced me to the Fu-Schnicks and I was immediately drawn to Chip Fu. Glad to see him make an appearance on Apathy’s 2009 album Wanna Snuggle? Nice cameo from Phife on this as well.
10. “Head Banger” – EPMD feat. Redman & K-Solo
EPMD brought so many great songs over the years, must of which have been sampled, covered, replicated or borrowed from in some way. This is one of the best posse cuts in hip-hop history as Erick and Parrish share the mic with K-Solo and Redman. Redman in typical fashion steals the show.
9. “They Want EFX” – Das EFX
Now this was something completely different. Das EFX brought the “iggity” to hip-hop which would be copied by dozens of artists to follow. “Mic Checka” is deserving of this list as well, but “They Want EFX” conjures up great memories from my younger years and still makes me smile and nod my head to this day.
8. “Damn It Feels Good To Be A Gangsta” – Geto Boys
Thank you Office Space. Mike Judge used this song for his hilarious take on life in a cubicle and while the Geto Boys are the complete opposite of the characters in the movie, it somehow fit. I love cranking the volume on this song and putting my windows down on a sunny day and driving around. I know that I’m way too old to be doing this. And I know I’m the furthest thing from being gangsta. But I can’t help it.
7. “Deep Cover” – Dr. Dre & Snoop Doggy Dogg
This song introduced the world to Snoop, and launched Dr. Dre’s solo career. This song could easily be the No. 1 song of the year (No. 6-No. 1 are just that damn good), but I held it back for one reason and that is The Chronic came out in ’92 as well and there is a better Dre song for me to pick. (On a side note, I know I’m only picking one song per album, but this was on the Deep Cover soundtrack, not on The Chronic, and it had too damn big of an impact to be left off.)
6. “It Was A Good Day” – Ice Cube
My favorite Ice Cube song of all time and it’s by a landslide. People who don’t really care for hip-hop music love this song. And it isn’t watered down at all. Now that’s saying something. The Isley Brothers sample was the perfect choice for the backdrop as Cube recounts one helluva day. The song ended up hitting No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Rap Singles in 1993.
5. “Time 4 Sum Aksion” – Redman
This song gets me amped every time I hear it. Redman lyrically murders this track. The beat is terrific, the B-Real sample for the hook works perfectly, it’s just a hip-hop masterpiece. Redman’s best song by far.
4. “Juice (Know The Ledge)” – Eric B. & Rakim
The sample of Nat Adderley’s “Rise, Sally Rise” created one of the greatest beats ever made. And then you put the God MC on it? Hip-hop at it’s finest. Also featured in one of my favorite movies of the time, Juice.
3. “Passin’ Me By” – The Pharcyde
The Pharcyde’s debut album was phenomenal and this was the stand out. Imani grabs the listener immediately to kick off the song, but Fat Lip delivers the best verse of all with his failed love letter to close out the song.
2. “They Reminisce Over You” – Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth
From a production stand point, I’m not sure you’ll ever find a better hip-hop song. It’s just a beautiful blend that any rapper would kill to rhyme over. C.L. Smooth takes the amazing beat to another level with his lyrics. Vivid descriptions of his childhood that make the song an ode to the days of yesteryear, which now serves as the best window to the early ‘90’s.
1. “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang” – Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Doggy Dogg
The greatest song from my No. 2 hip-hop album of all time, this IS 1992. Songs 2-7 could all be No. 1 on other years. But not in ’92. Not with “’G Thang” in the mix. “1, 2, 3 and to the 4…” Go ahead. Recite the rest. The best summertime song ever made. One of the best songs ever made. Period.
Best Albums
10. F.U. Don’t Take It Personal – Fu-Schnickens
There were some unique hip-hop acts in the early ‘90’s and the Fu-Schnickens were certainly among them. Chip-Fu could rhyme faster than anyone I had ever heard at the time and even rhymed backwards on “Movie Scene,” which is still incredible to listen to now. “La Schmoove” is my No. 11 song on the above list and “Ring The Alarm” is also deserving of the top 20 songs of 1992.
9. Music To Driveby – Compton’s Most Wanted
This album was genuine gangsta rap. MC Eiht seemed legitimately scary. When I saw Menace II Society, I believed Eiht to be the most realistic character and I don’t think it was any stretch for him to act that part. “Hood Took Me Under,” “N 2 Deep” and “Def Wish II” are as hard as they come.
8. Check Your Head – Beastie Boys
The Beasties had come a long way from their Licensed To Ill days on this one. The trio showed off their musical chops, mixing rock and rap on tracks like “So What’Cha Want” while bringing some of their old style on “Jimmy James” and reppin’ straight hip-hop on “Pass The Mic.”
7. Mecca And The Soul Brother – Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth
The album that contains “They Reminisce Over You” is one of the most well-rounded albums of ’92. An album full of Pete Rock beats is always a good thing. And though he’s worked alongside just about every MC out there, no one sounds better or brings more life to a Pete Rock beat than C.L. Smooth.
6. Business Never Personal – EPMD
EPMD was a staple in the late 80’s and early 90’s. This was their darkest outing at the time. “Head Banger,” “Can’t Hear Nothing But The Music,” and “It’s Going Down” are all hard hitting, head nodders. “Crossover” was fantastic as well, as EPMD discussed artists selling their souls for commercial success. (Ironically, the song was one of the group’s more commercially successful songs.)
5. Dead Serious – Das EFX
The first five songs on the album are all fantastic. “Mic Checka” kicks things off and grabs your attention immediately. The Slick Rick sampled “Jussummen” comes next followed by the Diggity-Das’ greatest song “They Want EFX.” The album also contained one of my favorite Das tracks in “Dum Dums” which cleverly samples Otis Redding’s “The Happy Song.”
4. Whut? Thee Album – Redman
The album that brought Reggie Noble to the hip-hop world. “Time 4 Sum Aksion” is an all-time classic, but that wasn’t the lone standout on the album. “Watch Yo Nuggets,” “Blow Your Mind,” “Tonight’s Da Night” and the first installment of the “Sooperman Lover” series round out the album.
3. The Predator – Ice Cube
Critics will pick AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted as Cube’s best record. I pick The Predator. “It Was A Good Day” is Cube’s most popular song, while “Check Yo Self” and “Wicked” are both among my favorite songs of the ‘90’s. I don’t care for intros or skits. But the intro to this album which leads into “When Will They Shoot?” is a tremendous opener.
2. Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde – The Pharcyde
“Ya Mama,” “Passin’ Me By” and “Otha Fish” is an absolutely tremendous three-song stretch. During a time when West Coast hip-hop was synonymous with gangsta rap, the Pharcyde offered something different out of California. It was sort of like a West Coast Native Tongues offering with a humorous twist.
1. The Chronic – Dr. Dre
No surprise here. This is my No. 2 album of all time. G-Funk was born. Snoop was introduced to the world on “Deep Cover,” but became a star because of The Chronic. The Chronic also brought us The Dogg Pound, Nate Dogg, The Lady of Rage, and RBX. The intro hits you in the face and is followed by some of the finest songs ever put on record, including “Fuck Wit Dre Day,” “Let Me Ride,” “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang,” “Deeez Nuuuts,” and “Lil’ Ghetto Boy.” The skits are still enjoyable to this day, the outro is fantastic and the album closes with “Bitches Ain’t Shit.” What more can you ask for?
That’ll wrap up 1992. The Best of 1993 will be along shortly.
Alright, enough of the formalities, on to the list.
The Best of ‘92
Best Songs
20. “360 (What Goes Around)” – Grand Puba
Puba went solo in 1992, after breaking away from Brand Nubian. Puba’s biggest solo splash would come on Mary J. Blige’s “What’s The 4-1-1?” (which then got remixed with Biggie), but “360” allowed Puba to show he could stand on his own without Lord Jamar, Sadat X and DJ Alamo.
19. “N 2 Deep” – Compton’s Most Wanted feat. Scarface
You don’t get more gangsta than MC Eiht. Just not possible. Unless you add Scarface to the track. Compton’s Most Wanted was as important to gangsta rap in the ‘90’s as any other act.
18. “Back To The Grill” – MC Serch feat. Chubb Rock, Red Hot Lover Tone & Nas
I debated putting 3rd Base’s Derelicts of Dialect on my Best of ’91 album list because it was certainly one of my favorite albums when it came out. But I haven’t heard the album in over 15 years, so that answered the question on whether it would stand the test of time. Anyway, I was a big Serch fan back in the early ‘90’s and enjoyed his solo effort. This was the standout thanks once again thanks to a certain up and coming MC who stole the show.
17. “Ex Girl To The Next Girl” – Gang Starr
Love the horns on this track. And of course Premo’s scratches for the hook. Guru had a knack for breaking down the rules of relationships as evidenced by this song.
16. “Soul Clap” – Showbiz & A.G.
What hasn’t been used, sampled or stolen from this track to this point? Showbiz and A.G. bring a party anthem that’s a little different from what D.I.T.C. fans of today are used to hearing.
15. “Ill Street Blues” – Kool G. Rap
Seriously, who’s doper than Kool G. Rap on the mic? He earned his spot alongside Rakim and Kane during the early years and remains one of the most respected MCs in the game today. This track is the perfect example of a G. Rap street tale.
14. “Tennessee” – Arrested Development
I loved this song when it came out. It was just so dope. And it still is. I challenge you to a game of horseshoes. A game of HORSESHOES.
13. “Jump Around” – House of Pain
I couldn’t believe there were Irish rappers when this song came out. It was different than anything I had ever heard. 19 years later it remains one of the most recognizable hip-hop songs ever made. It also served as one of our warm up songs for my high school basketball team so it will always have significant meaning to me.
12. “So What’cha Want” – Beastie Boys
Guess what else was on our warm up tape? You guessed it. The Beasties brought a raw sound on this track with distorted mics, feedback and electric guitars. It was different than any other hip-hop song during that era as it crossed over into rock radio as well.
11. “La Schmoove” – Fu-Schnickens feat. Phife Dawg
The Fu-Schnickens may be most famous for their collaboration with then-NBA rookie Shaquille O’Neal on “What’s Up Doc?” but people shouldn’t sleep on their debut album. This track introduced me to the Fu-Schnicks and I was immediately drawn to Chip Fu. Glad to see him make an appearance on Apathy’s 2009 album Wanna Snuggle? Nice cameo from Phife on this as well.
10. “Head Banger” – EPMD feat. Redman & K-Solo
EPMD brought so many great songs over the years, must of which have been sampled, covered, replicated or borrowed from in some way. This is one of the best posse cuts in hip-hop history as Erick and Parrish share the mic with K-Solo and Redman. Redman in typical fashion steals the show.
9. “They Want EFX” – Das EFX
Now this was something completely different. Das EFX brought the “iggity” to hip-hop which would be copied by dozens of artists to follow. “Mic Checka” is deserving of this list as well, but “They Want EFX” conjures up great memories from my younger years and still makes me smile and nod my head to this day.
8. “Damn It Feels Good To Be A Gangsta” – Geto Boys
Thank you Office Space. Mike Judge used this song for his hilarious take on life in a cubicle and while the Geto Boys are the complete opposite of the characters in the movie, it somehow fit. I love cranking the volume on this song and putting my windows down on a sunny day and driving around. I know that I’m way too old to be doing this. And I know I’m the furthest thing from being gangsta. But I can’t help it.
7. “Deep Cover” – Dr. Dre & Snoop Doggy Dogg
This song introduced the world to Snoop, and launched Dr. Dre’s solo career. This song could easily be the No. 1 song of the year (No. 6-No. 1 are just that damn good), but I held it back for one reason and that is The Chronic came out in ’92 as well and there is a better Dre song for me to pick. (On a side note, I know I’m only picking one song per album, but this was on the Deep Cover soundtrack, not on The Chronic, and it had too damn big of an impact to be left off.)
6. “It Was A Good Day” – Ice Cube
My favorite Ice Cube song of all time and it’s by a landslide. People who don’t really care for hip-hop music love this song. And it isn’t watered down at all. Now that’s saying something. The Isley Brothers sample was the perfect choice for the backdrop as Cube recounts one helluva day. The song ended up hitting No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Rap Singles in 1993.
5. “Time 4 Sum Aksion” – Redman
This song gets me amped every time I hear it. Redman lyrically murders this track. The beat is terrific, the B-Real sample for the hook works perfectly, it’s just a hip-hop masterpiece. Redman’s best song by far.
4. “Juice (Know The Ledge)” – Eric B. & Rakim
The sample of Nat Adderley’s “Rise, Sally Rise” created one of the greatest beats ever made. And then you put the God MC on it? Hip-hop at it’s finest. Also featured in one of my favorite movies of the time, Juice.
3. “Passin’ Me By” – The Pharcyde
The Pharcyde’s debut album was phenomenal and this was the stand out. Imani grabs the listener immediately to kick off the song, but Fat Lip delivers the best verse of all with his failed love letter to close out the song.
2. “They Reminisce Over You” – Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth
From a production stand point, I’m not sure you’ll ever find a better hip-hop song. It’s just a beautiful blend that any rapper would kill to rhyme over. C.L. Smooth takes the amazing beat to another level with his lyrics. Vivid descriptions of his childhood that make the song an ode to the days of yesteryear, which now serves as the best window to the early ‘90’s.
1. “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang” – Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Doggy Dogg
The greatest song from my No. 2 hip-hop album of all time, this IS 1992. Songs 2-7 could all be No. 1 on other years. But not in ’92. Not with “’G Thang” in the mix. “1, 2, 3 and to the 4…” Go ahead. Recite the rest. The best summertime song ever made. One of the best songs ever made. Period.
Best Albums
10. F.U. Don’t Take It Personal – Fu-Schnickens
There were some unique hip-hop acts in the early ‘90’s and the Fu-Schnickens were certainly among them. Chip-Fu could rhyme faster than anyone I had ever heard at the time and even rhymed backwards on “Movie Scene,” which is still incredible to listen to now. “La Schmoove” is my No. 11 song on the above list and “Ring The Alarm” is also deserving of the top 20 songs of 1992.
9. Music To Driveby – Compton’s Most Wanted
This album was genuine gangsta rap. MC Eiht seemed legitimately scary. When I saw Menace II Society, I believed Eiht to be the most realistic character and I don’t think it was any stretch for him to act that part. “Hood Took Me Under,” “N 2 Deep” and “Def Wish II” are as hard as they come.
8. Check Your Head – Beastie Boys
The Beasties had come a long way from their Licensed To Ill days on this one. The trio showed off their musical chops, mixing rock and rap on tracks like “So What’Cha Want” while bringing some of their old style on “Jimmy James” and reppin’ straight hip-hop on “Pass The Mic.”
7. Mecca And The Soul Brother – Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth
The album that contains “They Reminisce Over You” is one of the most well-rounded albums of ’92. An album full of Pete Rock beats is always a good thing. And though he’s worked alongside just about every MC out there, no one sounds better or brings more life to a Pete Rock beat than C.L. Smooth.
6. Business Never Personal – EPMD
EPMD was a staple in the late 80’s and early 90’s. This was their darkest outing at the time. “Head Banger,” “Can’t Hear Nothing But The Music,” and “It’s Going Down” are all hard hitting, head nodders. “Crossover” was fantastic as well, as EPMD discussed artists selling their souls for commercial success. (Ironically, the song was one of the group’s more commercially successful songs.)
5. Dead Serious – Das EFX
The first five songs on the album are all fantastic. “Mic Checka” kicks things off and grabs your attention immediately. The Slick Rick sampled “Jussummen” comes next followed by the Diggity-Das’ greatest song “They Want EFX.” The album also contained one of my favorite Das tracks in “Dum Dums” which cleverly samples Otis Redding’s “The Happy Song.”
4. Whut? Thee Album – Redman
The album that brought Reggie Noble to the hip-hop world. “Time 4 Sum Aksion” is an all-time classic, but that wasn’t the lone standout on the album. “Watch Yo Nuggets,” “Blow Your Mind,” “Tonight’s Da Night” and the first installment of the “Sooperman Lover” series round out the album.
3. The Predator – Ice Cube
Critics will pick AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted as Cube’s best record. I pick The Predator. “It Was A Good Day” is Cube’s most popular song, while “Check Yo Self” and “Wicked” are both among my favorite songs of the ‘90’s. I don’t care for intros or skits. But the intro to this album which leads into “When Will They Shoot?” is a tremendous opener.
2. Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde – The Pharcyde
“Ya Mama,” “Passin’ Me By” and “Otha Fish” is an absolutely tremendous three-song stretch. During a time when West Coast hip-hop was synonymous with gangsta rap, the Pharcyde offered something different out of California. It was sort of like a West Coast Native Tongues offering with a humorous twist.
1. The Chronic – Dr. Dre
No surprise here. This is my No. 2 album of all time. G-Funk was born. Snoop was introduced to the world on “Deep Cover,” but became a star because of The Chronic. The Chronic also brought us The Dogg Pound, Nate Dogg, The Lady of Rage, and RBX. The intro hits you in the face and is followed by some of the finest songs ever put on record, including “Fuck Wit Dre Day,” “Let Me Ride,” “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang,” “Deeez Nuuuts,” and “Lil’ Ghetto Boy.” The skits are still enjoyable to this day, the outro is fantastic and the album closes with “Bitches Ain’t Shit.” What more can you ask for?
That’ll wrap up 1992. The Best of 1993 will be along shortly.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Song of the Day
Cunninlynguists feat. Freddie Gibbs - "Hard As They Come (Act 1)"
Super dope song off Cunninlynguists' latest album. This is one of my favorite songs at the moment. Great concept as first verse is about alcohol, second is about coke and third is about AIDS. Really focus in on the lyrics. Oh, and the beat is ridiculous.
Super dope song off Cunninlynguists' latest album. This is one of my favorite songs at the moment. Great concept as first verse is about alcohol, second is about coke and third is about AIDS. Really focus in on the lyrics. Oh, and the beat is ridiculous.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Song of the Day
Witchdoctor - "Holiday"
This song was stuck in my head yesterday and I couldn't shake it. Really liked Witchdoctor's debut album and thought he complimented the Dungeon Family well. Haven't heard from him a while though.
This song was stuck in my head yesterday and I couldn't shake it. Really liked Witchdoctor's debut album and thought he complimented the Dungeon Family well. Haven't heard from him a while though.
Friday, April 1, 2011
The Best Hip-Hop Songs & Albums: 1991
After a discussion about the golden age of hip-hop, which my brother contends is 1991-95 and I argue to include ’96 as well, I decided to go back and take a closer look at each year individually. Collectively, that six year span produced my top 5 favorite hip-hop albums of all time and some of the absolute, no doubt, no argument, can’t be disputed best hip-hop songs ever recorded. But which year reigned supreme? That’s what I wanted to figure out.
Of course I couldn’t stop at ’96, so I then looked into 1997 and then 1998, then ’99. Eventually I decided to recap every year from 1991-2010. But in doing so I was able to confirm that yes, 1991-1996 were the best years of hip-hop and no, 1997 and beyond, while still good, did not live up to the quality. Not that it was easy to live up to the standards set during those years, but the drop off after ’96 is very noticeable.
So I bring to you a year-by-year look at hip-hop music starting with 1991 and ending with 2010. These will be delivered over the course of a few weeks, but will cover the 20 best songs of each year and the 10 best albums of each year.
And before you argue, I chose songs and albums that I consider the best, or have the most meaning to me. There are going to be obvious exclusions, like Showbiz & A.G.’s Runaway Slave, but it wouldn’t be fair to go back today and add those albums just because they are popular choices amongst hip-hop critics. Truth of the matter is, I didn’t hear Runaway Slave in ’92 and to this day have had only limited exposure to the album. Hip-hop blasphemy? Maybe, but I want this to be genuine.
Also, I picked one song per album for the 20 best songs, so while I realize “Check The Rhime” and “Scenario” should both be included on the Best of ’91 song list, only “Scenario” made the cut. I was torn on doing the lists this way, but figured it would give you a better scope of what music came out that year. I’ll include some other great songs in the Best Albums portion. Got it? Good. Let’s get down to business.
Best of 1991
Best Songs
20. “Fugitive” – K-Solo
This was my first time hearing K-Solo and I loved this track as a kid. Hadn’t heard it in forever, but it was great to go back and listen to again. K-Solo’s career didn’t unfold the way some thought, but he did keep his name afloat with his appearance on EPMD’s “Head Banger” in 1992.
19. “Step In The Arena” – Gang Starr
Classic Gang Starr here off their second album. Primo is one of the greatest producers to ever do it and it showed right away. R.I.P. Guru.
18. “The Wrong Nigga To Fuck Wit” – Ice Cube
I originally had “Jackin’ For Beats” on the list, but this is a better representation of Ice Cube during the early 90’s. Cube was busy in ’91 with Death Certificate and Kill At Will both dropping that year.
17. “Fudge Pudge” – Organized Konfusion feat. O.C.
I was late to the party on this song and still haven’t heard the entire debut album from Organized. “Stress” was my first exposure to Prince Poetic and Pharoahe Monch and “Times Up” was my introduction to O.C., but this would’ve sufficed as well. Great song by three great MCs. Glad that Organized is rumored to be working on a reunion album.
16. “Case of the P.T.A.” – Leaders of the New School
Saw this video on Yo! MTV Raps and thought it was tremendous. Little did I know what career was about to launch from L.O.N.S. Busta Rhymes was the stand out then and only solidified his star later in ’91, unleashing the dungeon dragon.
15. “Ring Ring Ring (Ha Hey Hey)” – De La Soul
I always wanted to use the hook from this song for my answering machine, but I didn’t think my parents would appreciate it so I resisted the urge. Classic song off of one of De La’s finest albums.
14. “If My Homie Calls” – 2Pac
The popular choice here would be “Brenda’s Got A Baby.” But this is my list. 2Pac is my favorite rapper of all time and this is the first 2Pac song I ever heard, so it makes the list over “Brenda.”
13. “Mistadobalina” – Del The Funkee Homosapien
First impression of Del was he had the greatest name in hip-hop. The Funkee Homosapien? Really? And his album’s called I Wish My Brother George Was Here? That’s awesome. “Dr. Bombay” was my intro to Del, but “Mistadobalina” remains his biggest claim to fame.
12. “Looking At The Front Door” – Main Source
Large Professor has never been given the proper respect as one of the greats. Don’t get me wrong, Large Pro has his fair share of supporters, but in the grand scheme of things he hasn’t been given his just due. This is some real life, mature hip-hop about relationships that I will confess I couldn’t relate to in ’91. Could’ve easily picked “Live At The Barbecue” as well thanks to an appearance from Nasty Nas.
11. “Alwayz Into Something” – N.W.A.
This could’ve been on The Chronic and would’ve fit in perfectly. Dre and Ren spit some old gangsta shit and Dre introduces G-Funk to the world. The video for this track was fantastic as well.
10. “How I Could Just Kill A Man” – Cypress Hill
I previously discussed my relationship with Cypress Hill’s music on a prior post, and I can’t stress how glad I am that I changed my tune in regard to their music. If I had to pick one song as an example of Cypress Hill, this is the one I’d choose.
9. “Summertime” – DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
“Drums please.” This truly is one of the greatest summer songs ever made. If not for “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang,” I may put this as No. 1 on that list. I loved Jazzy Jeff & Fresh Prince as a kid. “Parents Just Don’t Understand” was one of the first hip-hop songs I embraced. This track is timeless.
8. “New Jack Hustler” – Ice-T
This track came at a time when Ice-T was at the height of his game. “Colors” had dropped 3 years prior, and “O.G. Original Gangster” was soon to follow. The beat on this track is instantly recognizable and Ice-T shows off how good of a story teller he is.
7. “Same Song” – Digital Underground feat. 2Pac
Fresh off the heels of “The Humpty Dance,” Digital Underground brought this track from the Nothing But Trouble soundtrack. While Shock G. and Humpty Hump (or Shock G. as Humpty Hump) exchange verses, Money B. drops my favorite verse and 2Pac steps onto the scene.
6. “Sometimes I Rhyme Slow” – Nice & Smooth
Over Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” Nice & Smooth deliver one of the best songs of their career. Greg Nice starts off with his usual style, while Smooth B discusses his girl’s struggle with cocaine addiction. “Hip-Hop Junkies” deserves recognition here as well, as it could’ve easily been included on this list.
5. “Ghetto Bastard (Everything’s Gonna Be Alright)” – Naughty By Nature
Let me start by saying the significance of “O.P.P.” is not lost on me. It is the song that launched Naughty. And it’s the song that Naughty will always be famous for, along with “Hip-Hop Hooray.” But, my favorite Naughty By Nature song ever is “Ghetto Bastard.” Lyrically, I can’t think of a better performance from Treach.
4. “Mind Playing Tricks On Me” – Geto Boys
One of my favorite rap videos ever made. Bushwick Bill’s line about blood on his hands from punching on the cement conjures up a great visual. Scarface delivers two outstanding verses on this one and the beat is like no other. A true hip-hop classic.
3. “Can’t Truss It” – Public Enemy
This was listed as my favorite song in my 8th grade yearbook. I’ve always loved Public Enemy. “911 Is A Joke” got me to start paying closer attention to hip-hop music. “By The Time I Get To Arizona” and “Shut ‘Em Down” both could’ve taken this spot, but “Can’t Truss It” made me more excited than any hip-hop song at that time. I had the cassette single and couldn’t wait for Apocalypse 91 to drop.
2. “Choice Is Yours” – Black Sheep
Easy choice here. This song was, is and always will be one of the greatest songs ever. Dres absolutely slayed this one. “Engine, engine, No.9/On the New York transit line,” will get any party started. Put that line on in a club or at a party and every one will recite the rest of it.
1.“Scenario” – A Tribe Called Quest feat. Leaders of the New School
As I stated in the intro, “Check The Rhime” should be on this list. It was one of the 20 best hip-hop songs of 1991. Hell, it was one of the best hip-hop songs of the ‘90’s period. But if I’m only picking one song per album, “Scenario” gets the nod. And that’s saying something to be picked over “Check The Rhime.” Phife opens the song with one of my favorite verses ever, one that I recite constantly to this very day, and Busta steals the show. This is the greatest posse cut ever recorded and it launched the career of one of hip-hop’s brightest and most colorful stars. Here we go, yo.
Best Albums
10. Death Certificate – Ice Cube
Controversial. Introspective. Hard Hitting. Cube pulled no punches on this album, addressing everything from the racial divide to responding to his falling out with N.W.A.
9. Naughty By Nature – Naughty By Nature
The crew from Illtown burst on the scene thanks to “O.P.P.” and continued to keep momentum up with “Ghetto Bastard” as well as “Uptown Anthem.” A solid debut offering from Naughty.
8. Breaking Atoms – Main Source
The sensational “Lookin At The Front Door,” the Nas assisted “Live At The Barbeque” as well as “Just A Friendly Game of Baseball” helped highlight an album that is the perfect example of East Coast hip-hop music from the era.
7. De La Soul Is Dead – De La Soul
Prince Paul has been involved in so many great albums it’s ridiculous. Everyone that grew up with this record has fond memories of it as it had a feel good vibe that other hip-hop albums didn’t have while still maintaining top notch lyrics. De La are Hall of Famers and this is widely regarded as their greatest offering.
6. 2Pacalypse Now – 2Pac
Of his actual releases, this is my least favorite. In fact I’d rank Pac albums in descending order from All Eyez On Me, Me Against The World, Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z. to 2Pacalypse Now. But this was the first full offering of Pac’s music and as I’ve already said he went on to become my favorite MC of all time. Highlights are “Trapped,” “Brenda’s Got A Baby,” “If My Homie Calls” and “Rebel of the Underground.”
5. Cypress Hill – Cypress Hill
This album was a big part of my teen years and I’ve grown to truly appreciate it as time has gone on. The Soul Assassins sound was born on this album and has lived on in Cypress affiliates House of Pain, Funkdoobiest and the like. “How I Could Just Kill A Man,” “Hand on the Pump” and “The Phuncky Feel One” are among the best songs Cypress has ever put out.
4. A Wolf In Sheep’s Clothing – Black Sheep
“Choice Is Yours” launched this album to the mainstream, but the Sheep had enough quality from front to back on this disc to get love from fan regardless. “Flavor of the Month” and “Strobelite Honey” both enjoyed some success as singles, while “Pass The 40” remains a must amongst hip-hop heads.
3. Efil4zaggin – N.W.A.
No more Ice Cube, no problem. N.W.A. still delivered another great album to follow the classic Straight Outta Compton. “Always Into Something,” “Appetite For Destruction,” and “Real Niggaz Don’t Die” are as hard as they come. And I’ve always loved “Automobile” and “I’d Rather F-ck You,” both of which let Eazy-E show off his comedic side.
2. Low End Theory – A Tribe Called Quest
“Buggin’ Out,” “Butter,” “Check The Rhime,” “Jazz,” “Scenario” should I just give the track list as proof that this album was sensational? They don’t make them like Tribe anymore. And I doubt we’ll ever hear any one like Tribe again. (Unless we get a reunion. Just do it fellas!)
1. Apocalypse ’91: The Enemy Strikes Black – Public Enemy
This is the album that truly turned me into a hip-hop junkie. I listened to this album every day over and over again. I was finally starting to come into my own as a hip-hop fan during the early ‘90’s and this was the album that truly put me on track. Fear of a Black Planet and It Takes A Nation of Millions To Hold Us Back are the two albums that will get the most acclaim when discussing P.E. And I understand that. Those albums are deserving of the praise heaped on them. But I refuse to gloss over the album that meant so much to me as a hip-hop fan. “Can’t Truss It,” “By The Time I Get To Arizona,” “Shut ‘Em Down” are all classics. “Lost At Birth” is one of my favorite opening tracks ever. And the rest of the album ties together perfectly.
That wraps up 1991. The Best of ’92 coming soon.
Of course I couldn’t stop at ’96, so I then looked into 1997 and then 1998, then ’99. Eventually I decided to recap every year from 1991-2010. But in doing so I was able to confirm that yes, 1991-1996 were the best years of hip-hop and no, 1997 and beyond, while still good, did not live up to the quality. Not that it was easy to live up to the standards set during those years, but the drop off after ’96 is very noticeable.
So I bring to you a year-by-year look at hip-hop music starting with 1991 and ending with 2010. These will be delivered over the course of a few weeks, but will cover the 20 best songs of each year and the 10 best albums of each year.
And before you argue, I chose songs and albums that I consider the best, or have the most meaning to me. There are going to be obvious exclusions, like Showbiz & A.G.’s Runaway Slave, but it wouldn’t be fair to go back today and add those albums just because they are popular choices amongst hip-hop critics. Truth of the matter is, I didn’t hear Runaway Slave in ’92 and to this day have had only limited exposure to the album. Hip-hop blasphemy? Maybe, but I want this to be genuine.
Also, I picked one song per album for the 20 best songs, so while I realize “Check The Rhime” and “Scenario” should both be included on the Best of ’91 song list, only “Scenario” made the cut. I was torn on doing the lists this way, but figured it would give you a better scope of what music came out that year. I’ll include some other great songs in the Best Albums portion. Got it? Good. Let’s get down to business.
Best of 1991
Best Songs
20. “Fugitive” – K-Solo
This was my first time hearing K-Solo and I loved this track as a kid. Hadn’t heard it in forever, but it was great to go back and listen to again. K-Solo’s career didn’t unfold the way some thought, but he did keep his name afloat with his appearance on EPMD’s “Head Banger” in 1992.
19. “Step In The Arena” – Gang Starr
Classic Gang Starr here off their second album. Primo is one of the greatest producers to ever do it and it showed right away. R.I.P. Guru.
18. “The Wrong Nigga To Fuck Wit” – Ice Cube
I originally had “Jackin’ For Beats” on the list, but this is a better representation of Ice Cube during the early 90’s. Cube was busy in ’91 with Death Certificate and Kill At Will both dropping that year.
17. “Fudge Pudge” – Organized Konfusion feat. O.C.
I was late to the party on this song and still haven’t heard the entire debut album from Organized. “Stress” was my first exposure to Prince Poetic and Pharoahe Monch and “Times Up” was my introduction to O.C., but this would’ve sufficed as well. Great song by three great MCs. Glad that Organized is rumored to be working on a reunion album.
16. “Case of the P.T.A.” – Leaders of the New School
Saw this video on Yo! MTV Raps and thought it was tremendous. Little did I know what career was about to launch from L.O.N.S. Busta Rhymes was the stand out then and only solidified his star later in ’91, unleashing the dungeon dragon.
15. “Ring Ring Ring (Ha Hey Hey)” – De La Soul
I always wanted to use the hook from this song for my answering machine, but I didn’t think my parents would appreciate it so I resisted the urge. Classic song off of one of De La’s finest albums.
14. “If My Homie Calls” – 2Pac
The popular choice here would be “Brenda’s Got A Baby.” But this is my list. 2Pac is my favorite rapper of all time and this is the first 2Pac song I ever heard, so it makes the list over “Brenda.”
13. “Mistadobalina” – Del The Funkee Homosapien
First impression of Del was he had the greatest name in hip-hop. The Funkee Homosapien? Really? And his album’s called I Wish My Brother George Was Here? That’s awesome. “Dr. Bombay” was my intro to Del, but “Mistadobalina” remains his biggest claim to fame.
12. “Looking At The Front Door” – Main Source
Large Professor has never been given the proper respect as one of the greats. Don’t get me wrong, Large Pro has his fair share of supporters, but in the grand scheme of things he hasn’t been given his just due. This is some real life, mature hip-hop about relationships that I will confess I couldn’t relate to in ’91. Could’ve easily picked “Live At The Barbecue” as well thanks to an appearance from Nasty Nas.
11. “Alwayz Into Something” – N.W.A.
This could’ve been on The Chronic and would’ve fit in perfectly. Dre and Ren spit some old gangsta shit and Dre introduces G-Funk to the world. The video for this track was fantastic as well.
10. “How I Could Just Kill A Man” – Cypress Hill
I previously discussed my relationship with Cypress Hill’s music on a prior post, and I can’t stress how glad I am that I changed my tune in regard to their music. If I had to pick one song as an example of Cypress Hill, this is the one I’d choose.
9. “Summertime” – DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
“Drums please.” This truly is one of the greatest summer songs ever made. If not for “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang,” I may put this as No. 1 on that list. I loved Jazzy Jeff & Fresh Prince as a kid. “Parents Just Don’t Understand” was one of the first hip-hop songs I embraced. This track is timeless.
8. “New Jack Hustler” – Ice-T
This track came at a time when Ice-T was at the height of his game. “Colors” had dropped 3 years prior, and “O.G. Original Gangster” was soon to follow. The beat on this track is instantly recognizable and Ice-T shows off how good of a story teller he is.
7. “Same Song” – Digital Underground feat. 2Pac
Fresh off the heels of “The Humpty Dance,” Digital Underground brought this track from the Nothing But Trouble soundtrack. While Shock G. and Humpty Hump (or Shock G. as Humpty Hump) exchange verses, Money B. drops my favorite verse and 2Pac steps onto the scene.
6. “Sometimes I Rhyme Slow” – Nice & Smooth
Over Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” Nice & Smooth deliver one of the best songs of their career. Greg Nice starts off with his usual style, while Smooth B discusses his girl’s struggle with cocaine addiction. “Hip-Hop Junkies” deserves recognition here as well, as it could’ve easily been included on this list.
5. “Ghetto Bastard (Everything’s Gonna Be Alright)” – Naughty By Nature
Let me start by saying the significance of “O.P.P.” is not lost on me. It is the song that launched Naughty. And it’s the song that Naughty will always be famous for, along with “Hip-Hop Hooray.” But, my favorite Naughty By Nature song ever is “Ghetto Bastard.” Lyrically, I can’t think of a better performance from Treach.
4. “Mind Playing Tricks On Me” – Geto Boys
One of my favorite rap videos ever made. Bushwick Bill’s line about blood on his hands from punching on the cement conjures up a great visual. Scarface delivers two outstanding verses on this one and the beat is like no other. A true hip-hop classic.
3. “Can’t Truss It” – Public Enemy
This was listed as my favorite song in my 8th grade yearbook. I’ve always loved Public Enemy. “911 Is A Joke” got me to start paying closer attention to hip-hop music. “By The Time I Get To Arizona” and “Shut ‘Em Down” both could’ve taken this spot, but “Can’t Truss It” made me more excited than any hip-hop song at that time. I had the cassette single and couldn’t wait for Apocalypse 91 to drop.
2. “Choice Is Yours” – Black Sheep
Easy choice here. This song was, is and always will be one of the greatest songs ever. Dres absolutely slayed this one. “Engine, engine, No.9/On the New York transit line,” will get any party started. Put that line on in a club or at a party and every one will recite the rest of it.
1.“Scenario” – A Tribe Called Quest feat. Leaders of the New School
As I stated in the intro, “Check The Rhime” should be on this list. It was one of the 20 best hip-hop songs of 1991. Hell, it was one of the best hip-hop songs of the ‘90’s period. But if I’m only picking one song per album, “Scenario” gets the nod. And that’s saying something to be picked over “Check The Rhime.” Phife opens the song with one of my favorite verses ever, one that I recite constantly to this very day, and Busta steals the show. This is the greatest posse cut ever recorded and it launched the career of one of hip-hop’s brightest and most colorful stars. Here we go, yo.
Best Albums
10. Death Certificate – Ice Cube
Controversial. Introspective. Hard Hitting. Cube pulled no punches on this album, addressing everything from the racial divide to responding to his falling out with N.W.A.
9. Naughty By Nature – Naughty By Nature
The crew from Illtown burst on the scene thanks to “O.P.P.” and continued to keep momentum up with “Ghetto Bastard” as well as “Uptown Anthem.” A solid debut offering from Naughty.
8. Breaking Atoms – Main Source
The sensational “Lookin At The Front Door,” the Nas assisted “Live At The Barbeque” as well as “Just A Friendly Game of Baseball” helped highlight an album that is the perfect example of East Coast hip-hop music from the era.
7. De La Soul Is Dead – De La Soul
Prince Paul has been involved in so many great albums it’s ridiculous. Everyone that grew up with this record has fond memories of it as it had a feel good vibe that other hip-hop albums didn’t have while still maintaining top notch lyrics. De La are Hall of Famers and this is widely regarded as their greatest offering.
6. 2Pacalypse Now – 2Pac
Of his actual releases, this is my least favorite. In fact I’d rank Pac albums in descending order from All Eyez On Me, Me Against The World, Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z. to 2Pacalypse Now. But this was the first full offering of Pac’s music and as I’ve already said he went on to become my favorite MC of all time. Highlights are “Trapped,” “Brenda’s Got A Baby,” “If My Homie Calls” and “Rebel of the Underground.”
5. Cypress Hill – Cypress Hill
This album was a big part of my teen years and I’ve grown to truly appreciate it as time has gone on. The Soul Assassins sound was born on this album and has lived on in Cypress affiliates House of Pain, Funkdoobiest and the like. “How I Could Just Kill A Man,” “Hand on the Pump” and “The Phuncky Feel One” are among the best songs Cypress has ever put out.
4. A Wolf In Sheep’s Clothing – Black Sheep
“Choice Is Yours” launched this album to the mainstream, but the Sheep had enough quality from front to back on this disc to get love from fan regardless. “Flavor of the Month” and “Strobelite Honey” both enjoyed some success as singles, while “Pass The 40” remains a must amongst hip-hop heads.
3. Efil4zaggin – N.W.A.
No more Ice Cube, no problem. N.W.A. still delivered another great album to follow the classic Straight Outta Compton. “Always Into Something,” “Appetite For Destruction,” and “Real Niggaz Don’t Die” are as hard as they come. And I’ve always loved “Automobile” and “I’d Rather F-ck You,” both of which let Eazy-E show off his comedic side.
2. Low End Theory – A Tribe Called Quest
“Buggin’ Out,” “Butter,” “Check The Rhime,” “Jazz,” “Scenario” should I just give the track list as proof that this album was sensational? They don’t make them like Tribe anymore. And I doubt we’ll ever hear any one like Tribe again. (Unless we get a reunion. Just do it fellas!)
1. Apocalypse ’91: The Enemy Strikes Black – Public Enemy
This is the album that truly turned me into a hip-hop junkie. I listened to this album every day over and over again. I was finally starting to come into my own as a hip-hop fan during the early ‘90’s and this was the album that truly put me on track. Fear of a Black Planet and It Takes A Nation of Millions To Hold Us Back are the two albums that will get the most acclaim when discussing P.E. And I understand that. Those albums are deserving of the praise heaped on them. But I refuse to gloss over the album that meant so much to me as a hip-hop fan. “Can’t Truss It,” “By The Time I Get To Arizona,” “Shut ‘Em Down” are all classics. “Lost At Birth” is one of my favorite opening tracks ever. And the rest of the album ties together perfectly.
That wraps up 1991. The Best of ’92 coming soon.
Song of the Day
Main Source - "Just A Friendly Game of Baseball"
In honor of Opening Day, here's one from Main Source. Found on "Breaking Atoms" as well as the Boyz In The Hood soundtrack. Not exactly an ode to the National Pastime. Far from it actually. But oh well. I'm ready for baseball so why not?
In honor of Opening Day, here's one from Main Source. Found on "Breaking Atoms" as well as the Boyz In The Hood soundtrack. Not exactly an ode to the National Pastime. Far from it actually. But oh well. I'm ready for baseball so why not?
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