These Best 80s rap songs are a compilation of the most influential rap songs of the 80s. Here you would find a list of the best 80s hip-hop songs.
Best 80s Rap Songs
Before we dive into 1980s rap songs, here is a brief history of rap music.
The foundation of rap music dates back to 1970s. Afrika Bambaataa, Grandmaster Flash, and other DJs used turntables to extend funk, soul, and disco records for parties
However, the 80s was a crucial time for its development and recognition. 80s rap songs marked the emergence of rap music also known in the music genre as Hip-hop. Rap songs became a cultural movement capturing the essence of the struggle for freedom, equality, and justice as well as societal expectations and experiences.
The Sugarhill Gang released a song considered the first commercially successful rap song “Rapper’s Delight” (1979). This rap song almost single-handedly set the stage for the explosion of rap in the following decade.
Here is our take on the best 80s rap songs:
“Me Myself and I” by De La Soul
"Me Myself and I" was the lead single from De La Soul’s second album “3 Feet High and Rising” 1989. The rap group formed in Amityville, Long Island, New York.
This song fast became a hit and a landmark song in the hip-hop genre. "It encouraged people to embrace individuality encompassing one’s beliefs, personality traits, and experiences.
This song debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on 3rd of June 1989 and peaked at 34 on 22 July 1989. At the time, this was a huge success of a rap song. It became commercially successful and mainstream on the radio airwaves. The song featured samples of “(Not Just) Knee Deep” (1979), Funkadelic, “Rapper Dapper Snapper” (1980) by Edwin Birdsong and the iconic song “Funky Worm” (1972) by the legendary Ohio Players.
Year: 1989
“The Breaks” by Kurtis Blow
"The Breaks" is a rap song and produced by J.B and released 1980. Moore and Robert Ford JR. under the record label Mercury. The song incorporates some elements of funk and disco, which were the major influencers of early 80s rap music.
With its upbeat and catchy sound, characterized by a memorable bassline, it became a very danceable song that easily propelled Kurtis Blow to commercial success. The Break contains lyrics from the song Rapper's Delight by the SugarHill Gang.
This song spent 4 weeks on the UK charts peaking at 47, while it peaked at 87 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts on 27/09/1980 spending 6 weeks on the chart. 15 years later, KRS One sampled "The Breaks" on “MCs act like they don’t know.”
The Break showcased Kurtis Blow’s lyrical skill as a rap MC with a powerful delivery and commanding presence while telling a story of the everyday struggle and challenges faced in New York.
Year: 1980
“Bust A Move” by Young MC
Young MC who's original name is Marvin Young is a British born American rapper. He released the song called “Bust a move” from the album “Stone Cold Rhymin'” 1989. “Bust a Move" chatted well in US, UK and Australia. It's also known and accepted across a lot of countries.
This song was only the 2nd of its kind to have won a Grammy for Best Rap Performance in 1990 beating the likes of De La Soul – "Me Myself and I", DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince – "I Think I Can Beat Mike Tyson" Public Enemy – "Fight the Power" and Tone Lōc – "Funky Cold Medina"
"Bust a Move" became a popular tune because of its playful and light-hearted lyrics which revolve around the pursuit of romantic interest and this made it a party anthem.
Year: 1988
“Wild Thing” by Tone-Lōc
Upon its release, "Wild Thing" achieved massive commercial success. Tone-Lōc's deep and gravelly voice contributed to the song's appeal. His distinctive vocal style, along with the infectious groove of "Wild Thing," made it a memorable and instantly recognizable track.
"Wild Thing" is a classic and enduring 80s hip-hop song. It has been sampled on several songs for example, “My Humps" by Black Eyed Peas (2005) and several other artists.
Year: 1988
“Supersonic” by J.J. Fad
Backed by DJ Train, J.J. Fad is a all-female group. Supersonic had a major impact on J.J.Fad as a group of female MCs straight out of California as well as paving the way for other female MCs to take the stage of rap music.
"Supersonic" produced by Arabia Prince on the Album “Supersonic” (1988) was the biggest record for the girls. The last verse, where the girls upped the speed of their delivery is an iconic verse. The song quickly became popular with DJs at house parties and also gained significant radio airplay.
Supersonic reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Songs chart and also peaked at 33 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also recorded success in European countries.
Supersonic sampled Rocket in the Pocket (Live) by Cerrone (1978) and The Def Fresh Crew by Roxanne Shanté and Biz Markie (1986).
Year: 1987
“Girls Ain’t Nothing but Trouble” by The Fresh Prince and DJ Jazzy Jeff
The iconic duo of DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince is known for their innovative approach to hip-hop. This track established their presence on the Hip-hop scene and showcased the chemistry between them.
This song showcased the storytelling skill of Will Smith. The lyrics recount three different encounters with women. Fresh Prince met the first lady on the street, who he later wined and dined, but the date didn’t go as planned.
The next woman met was in a bar while he was watching a Mike Tyson fight and the last one was Betty. He got a call from her but that didn’t end well either. All the stories were humorous and funny.
"Girls Ain't Nothing but Trouble" gained significant attention and recognition, it made its debut on the Billboard Hot 100 on 29/10/88 and peaked at number 57 on 03/12/88 spending 12 weeks on the chart. In the UK chart, it peaked at number 21 spending 8 weeks on the chart.
Year: 1986
“My Melody” by Eric B & Rakim
"My Melody" is a notable hip-hop song by the iconic duo Eric B & Rakim. Released in 1986, it served as the lead single from their debut album, "Paid in Full." Eric B, the DJ, and Rakim, the MC, were known for their innovative approach to hip-hop and their influential contributions to the genre.
Lyrically, Rakim demonstrates his prowess as a skilled wordsmith, delivering intricate rhymes and displaying a unique flow. Rakim showcased his confidence and skills on the track by asserting his dominance as an MC with his lyrical abilities.
"My Melody" helped solidify Eric B & Rakim's status as one of the most influential and respected duos in hip-hop. Their innovative use of sampling, Rakim's intricate rhymes, and their overall musicality set them apart from their peers at the time. It's a classic and influential hip-hop song thanks to its lyrical depth and technical skill.
Year: 1987
“It’s Yours” by T La Rock and DJ Jazzy Jay
"It's Yours" is a foundational track in hip-hop history books. T La Rock, also known as Clarence "Terry" Keaton, is one of the early hip-hop pioneers of the genre. While DJ Jazzy Jay, whose real name is Joseph Saddler, is a legendary DJ and producer who was an influential figure in the early days of hip-hop.
T La Rock's energetic rhymes and catchy beat make "It's Yours" a fan favorite. The song features a combination of electronic and funk-inspired production, with T La Rock delivering his lyrics with a distinctive flow. The track showcases the essence of early hip-hop and helped to establish the foundation for the genre's future development.
"It's Yours" remains a significant and highly regarded song within the hip-hop community and has influenced numerous artists who followed in the genre. It is often cited as a classic and essential track in hip-hop music history.
Year: 1984
“Brass Monkey” by Beastie Boys
Who can forget this song, “Brass Monkey” by the Beastie Boys off their debut album "Licensed to Ill." "Brass Monkey" features a sample from the song "Bring It Here" by Wild Sugar. The track combines elements of hip-hop and funk, with the Beastie Boys' signature energetic and humorous style. The song's lyrics revolve around the popular drink called Brass Monkey, which is a mixture of malt liquor and orange juice.
The track became a significant hit for the Beastie Boys, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It has since become one of the group's most recognizable and enduring songs, often performed live and played at parties and sporting events. In hip-hop, the song "Brass Monkey" is a classic and helped establish the Beastie Boys as pioneers.
Year: 1986
“Whodini” by Friends
"Friends" is a song by the American hip-hop group Whodini. They released this song on their second album, "Escape" in 1984. This song quickly became a popular track and a hit with the DJs at various parties. Friends explored elements of eletro-funk with the use of Roland TR-808 drum machines.
Friends emphasizes the importance of friendship and loyalty and asked the question; how many people really have friends they can trust and rely upon when in need of help.
The song has a catchy and memorable chorus which resonated with its audiences and encapsulates the spirit of early rap music. Among other songs, "If I Rule the World" by Nas featuring Lauryn Hill, and Tupac's "Troublesome 96" samples "Friends".What type of friend are you to your friends?
Year: 1984
Wild Wild West – Kool Moe Dee
"Wild Wild West" is a song from Kool Moe Dee's second studio album, "How Ya Like Me Now," 1987. Although they have several hit songs, this is by far the most successful one of them all.
"Wild Wild West" is an upbeat and energetic hip-hop track that captures the essence of the Old West in a modern urban context. The song features catchy hooks, a driving beat, and Kool Moe Dee's confident and skillful delivery of his rhymes.
The lyrics of "Wild Wild West" depict a narrative of life in the streets, drawing parallels between the lawlessness of the Wild West and the challenges faced in contemporary urban environments. The song celebrates the hustle and survival instincts required to navigate the tough realities of inner-city life.
Upon its release, "Wild Wild West" achieved commercial success and became one of Kool Moe Dee's signature songs. It reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidified his status as a prominent figure in the hip-hop scene of the late 1980s.
Over the years, various artists have referenced and sampled "Wild Wild West," thanks to its catchy chorus and memorable lyrics. The song remains a favorite among fans of old-school hip-hop and serves as a testament to Kool Moe Dee's influential contributions to the genre.
Year: 1987
“F*Ck Tha Police” by N.W.A.
"F**k tha Police" is a song by the Compton rap group N.W.A. (Niggaz Wit Attitudes). This group mainly consist of Eazy-E, Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, MC Ren and DJ Yella. This was the best rap group of its era and a number of them went on to have successful solo careers.
"F**k tha Police" is a song from the group's debut studio album, "Straight Outta Compton." It remains one of the most controversial songs because of its provocative lyrics about police brutality and racial profiling in the city of Compton.
This song was a direct response to the LAPD and the criminal justice system in what the group tagged as systemic mistreatment of young African Americans and abuse of power by the law enforcements in the communities. It stems out fury and frustration and resonated with many people who had experience a terrible experience with the law enforcement.
With its explicit lyrics, it quickly became the anthem for young people who had felt oppressed by the law enforcement. Government officials heavily criticized the song for its confrontational and aggressive anti-police message at the time of its release. It also quickly became a song for those advocating for equality, fairness, and justice.
Ignoring the message, this rap song has a strong rap verse delivery that's hard to match in its time. It paved the way and was influential for future rap artists to express themselves however they wanted to.
Year: 1988
Straight Outta Compton by N.W.A.
"Straight Outta Compton" is a song from N.W.A.'s debut studio album "Straight Outta Compton" (1988). The pioneering rap group formed in Compton, Los Angles, California in the late 80s consists of Eazy-E, Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, MC Ren, and DJ Yella formed in Compton Los Angles California.
The song is straight out of the rule book of gangster rap which is explicit, confrontational, aggressive, and delivered with intensity and urgency for the listening ears of the audience.
"Straight Outta Compton" is the first song off the titled album Straight outta Compton. It tells the story of life on the street of Compton, the violence and survival in the streets. This album is one of the most influential hip-hop albums of all time. Each of the group member went solo and became iconic legends of the game. Before the untimely death of Eazy-Z, he was influential in bring the Hip-Hop group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony together. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony came onboard with a unique style of rapping.
"Straight Outta Compton" sampled Amen, Brother by The Winstons (1969), You'll Like It Too by Funkadelic (1981) and Get Me Back on Time, Engine
Year: 1988
“We want some pussy” by 2 Live Crew
There were other places that played a significant role in the development and popularisation of 80s Hip Hop besides the East Coast and West Coast. Miami is one of such places and 2 Live Crew was the group that lit it up with its explicit lyrics and sexually explicit content.
"We Want Some Pussy" is one of such songs with its explicit sexual and lyrical content. Despite its sexually charged content, the controversial song by the hip hop group 2 Live Crew gained attention and followers but it also caught the attention of the censor body. The group faced legal battles and censorship attempts due to the sexually suggestive lyrics and content which some people found inappropriate and offensive. Despite all the legal battles, 2 Live Crew achieved many commercially successful songs.
Year: 1986
"I Got It Made" by Special ED
'I Got It Made' is one of Special Ed's most popular and successful rap songs. This song is off the album “Youngest in Charge” 1989. The track demonstrates Special Ed's lyrical talent and confidence in a song produced by Howie Tee.
Special Ed would smoke any MC in a rap battle. In this song, his lyrical content included his success as a rap star and the luxurious lifestyle he is living. The song’s lyrics made it popular with his audience who wished for such a lifestyle.
This rap song sampled “I Don't Know What It Is but It Sure Is Funky” (1973). This rap song spent 18 weeks on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart, peaking at number 9 on the 1st of July 1989.
Year: 1989
“Children’s Story” by Slick Rick
"Children's Story" is an 80s rap song on his album, "The Great Adventures of Slick Rick" (1988). With its narrative lyrics, this song helps the listener visualize the events it's talking about. At the time, there were only a few rappers who could rap in this way.
Known as one of Slick Rick's most iconic tracks, it showcased his knack for relatable narratives. He rapped about the poor choices a young man called Ricky made in engaging in criminal actions and the consequences of those actions.
Self-produced by Slick Rick, it sampled “Nautilus” by Bob James (1974) which created a soft backdrop to the upbeat. Slick Rick combines his distinctive style with a graphic storytelling format which made this song a hit song as well as being able to influence a generation of rappers to come.
Year: 1988
“La Di Da Di” by Slick Rick & Doug E. Fresh
One of the best songs featuring Doug E Fresh in 1985 is "La Di Da Di." The latter beatboxed while Slick Rick laced the flow in his usual narrative-driven rap style which has made it a classic hip-hop song.
"La Di Da Di" was easy to perform on stage with no backup DJ because it only features Doug E. Fresh’s creativity and skill of beatboxing which made him a pioneer of this act.
Slick Rick’s energetic vibe, and playful lyrics are evident on this song as he narrates a story about how he loved to party and make people happy. He rapped about a day in Slick Rick’s life from the moment he woke up to start this eventful day.
This song sampled some lyrics from “A Taste of Honey” by Sukiyaki (1980). Snoop Dogg and Nanci Fletcher performed a cover of the 80s rap song in "Lodi Dodi" (1993). Various artists have sampled the track numerous times, including Kanye West in "Good Friday," “O.P.P.” by Naughty by Nature, and Eminem in "Discombobulated."
The track's simple yet infectious beatboxing and Slick Rick's smooth and humorous flow have made "La Di Da Di" a favourite among fans and a staple in hip-hop DJ sets. You can hear its influence in countless songs that sample its beat or reference its lyrics. There are countless songs that sample its beat or reference its lyrics.
"La Di Da Di" remains a beloved and influential track, showcasing the creativity and skill of Slick Rick and Doug E. Fresh as pioneers in the art of beatboxing and storytelling within hip-hop.
Year: 1985
“Walk This Way” by Run DMC With Aerosmith
When ground-breaking hip-hop and rock collaborations are mentioned then there is no other song that tops the bill than “Walk this way” by Run DMC and Aerosmith. This song captured the combination of a rock and hip-hop group in a seamless and well-planned manner that it introduced many mainstream rock audiences to rap music genre.
Originally made by Aerosmith in 1975, “Walk this way” by Run DMC and Aerosmith is a cover of the original song. In many ways, “Walk this Way” is a breakthrough for rap to a new audience, bridging the gap between rap and rock music. It would later become a thing for rap artist to lace rhymes over a rock beat, but this was the pioneer song that broke that cross-genre collaboration.
“Walk This Way” made it to the top 10 in the billboard hot 100. In fact, it peaked at number 4 and spent 16 weeks on the Billboard hot 100 chart. It also did extremely well on the UK charts by reaching number 9.
Year: 1986
“Self Destruction” by The Stop The Violence Movement
“Self Destruction” is a song that featured various hip-hop artist who came together under the name The stop the violence movement. This song is a collaboration which attempted to promote unity and peace in the neighbourhood due to the increase in drugs, crime, and violence.
“Self Destruction” addresses the prevalent gang violence and drug abuse that bedevilled the communities around the United States. They attempted to promotes and encourage unity amongst the residences in the community gained significant air play and became an anthem for peace and social consciousness. Many more songs have followed this format in promoting a good cause, diving into political or social events.
“Self Destruction” contains samples from a 1973 song by The JB’s, “Heaven and Hell Is on Earth” by 20th Century Steel Band (1975), “Dominoes” by Donald Byrd (1975) amongst others.
Year: 1989
“Smooth Operator” by Big Daddy Kane
"Smooth Operator" is one of Big Daddy Kane’s most popularized songs in his discography. This song was released in 1989 in the album "It's a Big Daddy Thing." This track has Big Daddy Kane's recognized smooth laid-back signature style of delivering raps.
Big Daddy Kane laid down his lyrics depicting himself as a smooth guy who has the charisma and swagger to wow the ladies. The video featured beautiful women and comedy actor Chris Rock also featured in it.
This song heavily sampled “All Night Long” by Mary Jane Girls (1983), as well as “Do Your Thing” by Isaac Hayes (1971) and Sexual Healing by Marvin Gaye (1982) amongst others. Various artists have also sampled it.
Year: 1989
“It’s Like That” by RUN DMC
RUN DMC's "It's Like That" is a classic 80s rap song. The song has remained one of their most successful and influential songs ever since its release in 1983. The track is off their self-titled debut album, "Run-D.M.C." produced by Larry Smith and Russell Simmons.
The song has an appealing baseline over a simplistic but powerful beat which allows the MCs deliver its distinctive and energetic rap style over it. The lyrical content addresses social, economic and political issues affecting many marginalized communities. The group used the song to lend their opinion and advocate for positive changes.
"It's Like That" peaked at number 15 on the billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and spent a total of 23 weeks on the chart at the time. This song remains a classic and influential track in the hip-hop Hall of Fame. Various artists have sampled the track including (O.J.) Wake Up by Snoop Dogg feat. Tray Deee (1996) and It's Like That by Klaas (2008)
Year: 1984
“Push It” by Salt-N-Pepa
When you talk about female MC groups that has made significant contributions to the representation of women in hip-hop, no other comes to mind than Salt-N-Pepa. Founded in the mid-80s, Salt, Pepa, and DJ Spinderella are real names Cheryl James, Sandra Denton, and Deidra Roper respectively.
Salt-N-Pepa released their debut album "Hot, Cool & Vicious," in 1986 and achieved mainstream success. The song “Push it” featured on the album and was a hit for these iconic female MCs.
The song reached number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spend a whopping 25 weeks on the chart. It is one of the biggest songs for the female MCs whose infectious hook, “Ooh, baby (12ce)," became part of an iconic chorus. The song itself contains flirtatious and seductive lyrics which became very popular with its audience.
“Push it” sampled “The Bird” by The Time (1984), “Keep on Pushin'” by Coal Kitchen (1977), “I'm a Greedy Man” by James Brown (1971) and “You Really Got Me” by The Kinks (1964)
Year: 1986
“The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five
Sylvia Robinson, who founded Sugarhill Records and Jiggs Chase, produced this classic hip-hop song. “The message” sampled Jac Holzman Fire Engine Passes with Bell Clanging (1964). This songs rhythm has been sampled in some notable 90s hip hop songs like "Check Yo Self" remix by Ice Cube (1993) and "Can't Nobody Hold Me Down" by Puff Daddy and Mase (1997).
Spend 7 weeks on the Billboard hot 100 making its debut on the 16th October 1982 and peaking at 62 on 6th November 1982. Broken glass everywhere and don’t push me because I am close to the edge.
Year: 1982
“White Lines (Don't Don't Do It)” by Grandmaster Melle Mel
Although this song is a danceable song, it talks about a serious subject matter that was on the front burner at the time. Drug usage and its destructive and devastating consequences. Drug use was a prevalent problem of the 80s which saw violence and many deaths. It helped raise awareness for impact drug has on family life, health and relationships. With his energetic display and powerful delivery of lyrics, Grandmaster Melle Mel is one of the pioneers of hip-hop genre.
“White Lines (Don't Don't Do It)” sampled “Cavern” by the American dance-punk group Liquid Liquid (1983), “Twist and Shout” by The Isley Brothers (1962), “Little Jack Horner” by Traditional Folk (1725). Also sampled on "Quiet Storm" by Mobb Deep (1999), "Phenomenon" by LL Cool J 1997, and "It's over now" by 112.
Year: 1983
“Jam On It” by Newcleus
Another of our favorite 80s rap songs is "Jam On It". Newcleus released this electro-funk/rap song in 1984. The song is catchy and infectious as it blends elements of funk and electronic music into rap.
"Jam On It" used an electro-funk synthesizer to infuse electronic music into rap. This style contributed to the development and popularity of electro-rap in music in the 1980s. The melodic chorus of the song encourages the listeners to let loose, dance party, and have a good time.
Several rap songs have sampled and referenced this Newcleus song, including "Jam on it" by Carden, produced by the popular producer JD. If you are looking for an 80s rap song to add to your playlist, this is one of the first on the list.
Year: 1984
“I Ain't No Joke” by Eric B. & Rakim
"I Ain't No Joke" is a classic rap song by the rap duo Eric B. & Rakim released in 1987 on the album “Paid in Full.” The track is arguably the standout track on the album by the iconic rap duo.
Rakim delivers clever, impactful, and complex wordplay lyrics in the verses, administering his skill and ability on the mic. His style helped shape maybe lyricists that came after him.
Like many 80s rap songs of this era, "I Ain't No Joke" prominently sampled. “Synthetic Substitution” by Melvin Bliss (1973), and Pass the Peas by The J.B.'s (1972). Some of the vocals have also been sampled on a number of songs. I'm Broke by Limp Bizkit (1999) and Fantastic 4 by Big Pun (1998) amongst others.
Year: 1987
“Top Billin” by Audio Two
"Top Billin'" is a classic rap song by the duo brothers called Audio Two. The track is included on the album “What More Can I Say?” (1987). This track has been commemorated for its infectious and memorable bassline and drum pattern.
What more can we say about this track, the beat is dope, and the lyrics are even better. The lyrics of "Top Billin'" revolve around being confident in one’s ability to get what they want. It has a theme of gasconading and boastfulness, with Milk Dee showcasing his lyrical skills on all four verses.
Like many other 80s rap songs, “Top Billin” sampled drums from “Impeach the President” by The Honey Drippers (1973) and vocals from “Go Stetsa I” by Stetsasonic (1986). Elements of “Top Billin” has been sampled by Kayne West, The Luniz, 50 Cent, Tupac, Mary J. Blige, Dr. Dre, and many other artists. The song’s impact on rap genre has solidified the rap duo’s status as an influential group in the rap game.
Year: 1987
“Paper Thin” by MC Lyte
“Paper Thin” is a song by MC Lyte, released in 1988 on her debut album “Lyte as a Rock.” MC Lyte is widely recognized as one of the best MCs period. She has a distinctive voice and rap flow.
"Paper Thin" is an 80s rap song with introspective lyrics delivered by the iconic MC Lyte. “Paper Thin” musical video starts with MC Lyte jumping out of the car full of friends to take the subway. Unknowingly to her, she would meet someone who appears to be her boyfriend on the subway. He was cuddled up to two other women. That’s when the rap starts, and she let him know she is not available to be toyed with.
"Paper Thin" is noted as a significant contribution to the popularilzation of rap by female MCs. It set the standards for up-and-coming female MCs to follow and remains an influential track till date.
This song sampled vocals from “Hit the Road Jack” by the legendary Ray Charles (1961). It also sampled drums from “I'm Glad You're Mine” by the iconic Al Green (1972).
Year: 1988
“Public Enemy No 1”. by Public Enemy
"Public Enemy No. 1" is one of the 80s rap songs by the American rap group Public Enemy. Released as a single from their debut album titled "Yo! Bum Rush the Show," (1987). Public Enemy was signed to Def Jam Records.
This song shows Public Enemy rapping at its best on political issues, police brutality, racial issues, and oppression. It seeks justice and equality for all residents of the United States from the hands of the powers that perpetuated inequality.
"Public Enemy No. 1" heavily sampled “Blow Your Head” by Fred Wesley and The J.B.'s (1974). It also sampled some elements from AJ Scratch by Kurtis Blow (1984). "Public Enemy No. 1" was sampled by Puff Daddy (1999) on the song “P.E. 2000”.
Although this song didn’t appear on the Billboard Hot 100 or UK charts, it is an 80s rap song that changed rap. It is characterized by Chuck D’s distinctive rap flow and powerful vocal presence while Flavor Flav was a supportive cast on the track.
Year: 1987
“Paid in Full” by Eric B. & Rakim
"Paid in Full" is an 80s rap song by the rap duo Eric B. & Rakim. It was the lead single from the album "Paid in Full." This was a song on the duo’s debut album released in 1987.
With the famous lines “thinking of a masterplan” and “Cause I don't like to dream about gettin' paid.” This song is known for its playful style in composition. It included vocals element from other songs and broadcasts as well as vocals in another language.
"Paid in Full" is known for the innovative way it sampled The Soul Searchers (1974) song called “Ashley's Roach clip.” It also sampled Dennis Edwards and Siedah Garrett (1984) hit song “Don’t look any further.”
Rakim is regarded as the poetic lyrical god. He showcases this with his smooth rhymes and confident flow on the track. While Eric B showcases his skill on the turntable with the combination of various vocals.
The song touches on the desire to be financially free and away from the struggles in marginalized communities. It has a theme of money, power, respect, and success.
"Paid in Full" has since been widely recognized as one of the best 80s rap songs. Because of this, it has been sampled on numerous songs by various artists across genres. The song continues to resonate with music lovers and it is still a hit with 80s rap parties.
Year: 1987
“You Played Yourself” by Ice T
"You Played Yourself" is a powerful and impactful rap song in Ice-T's discography. This song was released in 1989 on the album “The Iceberg/Freedom of Speech... Just Watch What You Say!”
Ice-T delivered skillful, confrontational, and critical lyrics. This song’s unapologetic tone resonated with its audience. He addresses issues of authenticity, self-destruction, and relationships within the music industry and society. Ice-T called out those who would blame society for their actions rather than take responsibility for their choices. This sparked controversy and gathered attention for its uncompromising message.
Like a number of 80s rap songs, “You Played Yourself” sampled elements of “The Boss” by the iconic James Brown (1973). It has also been sampled multiple times. This track has a heavy drum presence as well as a hard-hitting bassline.
Year: 1989
“Ain't No Half-Steppin'” by Big Daddy Kane
"Ain't No Half-Steppin'" is a classic 80s rap song by Big Daddy Kane in the album "Long Live the Kane" (1988).
This song embodies Big Daddy Kane's smooth lyrical prowess and his charming delivery. The song had plenty of Big Daddy Kane's clever wordplay and metaphors. Big Daddy Kane emphasizes his skills as an MC, asserting himself as the best rapper around at the time.
The video portrays Big Daddy Kane as a boxer going toe to toe with his opponent. However, rather than boxing, it was a challenge to a card game. Big Daddy Kane is one of the most influential and respected MCs of his generation. “Ain’t No Half-Steppin’” is an 80s rap lover’s favorite.
The beat production, combined with Big Daddy Kane’s confident and intricate rhyme schemes, created an infectious and dynamic track. The critically acclaimed song soon became a fan favorite establishing Big Daddy Kane as a force in the rap game.
Like other 80s rap songs, "Ain’t No Half-Steppin’” sampled “Blind Alley” by The Emotions (1972) and the popular song “UFO” by ESG (1981). It also sampled vocals from Heatwave’s “Ain't No Half Steppin'.”
Year: 1988
“I Can’t Live Without My Radio” by LL Cool J
This song showcases the deep connection between LL Cool J and his boombox (Radio). The lyrics of the song emphasize the influence of his radio on the artist’s life. With the artist’s iconic lyrics and energetic delivery, this is easily one of the best 80s rap songs. In the musical video, LL Cool J could be seen alongside his crew and his boombox.
Released: 1985
“Just A Friend” by Biz Markie
"Just a Friend" is a hit single by Biz Markie, released in 1989. The song combines elements of hip-hop and R&B, featuring Biz Markie's unique and humorous storytelling style. The track tells a tale of unrequited love with a catchy chorus that has become instantly recognizable.
Just a Friend musical video features Biz Markie in various scenarios including being a piano player and a stage performer. Also, he was seen visiting his supposed girlfriend in her school dormitory.
Released: 1989
“Bite This” by Roxanne Shante
Produced by Marley Marl, this hip-hop diss track is about MCs biting Roxanne’s rhymes and this is a direct response to the Roxanne Wars. Which is a series of diss exchanges between various artists. Roxanne used clever wordplay to get her point across and made this track a solid diss track of the 80s.
Released: 1985
“Stick Em” by Fat Boys
This song exemplifies the group's playful and comedic style of rap by combining beatboxing with an appealing rhyme. "Stick Em" is the group’s signature song, featuring humorous lyrics and an energetic music video.
The music video features the group showing their comical personalities with the use of humor, dance, and beatboxing.
Year: 1984
“The Symphony” by Marley Marl
The track features an all-star lineup of talented rap artists including Big Daddy Kane, Kool G Rap and Craig G. Produced by Marley Marl, this track is a timeless piece of the 80s rap songs archive. Without a chorus, it showcased the artists' creativity, lyricism, and intricate wordplay.
Year: 1988
“The Bridge” by Mc Shan
MC Shan released this hip-hop song called "The Bridge" in 1986. Like all rap feuds, there is always a track that starts it. “The Bridge” is the track that started the legendary “Bridge Wars”. MC Shan paid tribute to Queensbridge, a neighborhood in New York City where he grow up.
Year: 1986
“Shake Your Rump” by Beastie Boys
The Beastie Boys released this funky track in 1989. The track is a combination of hip-hop and funk. "Shake Your Rump" showcases the group's versatility with the use of samples, creating a dynamic party anthem.
The music video features the group's members on a rooftop and for some funny reason at a fruit aisle of a grocery store. It incorporates vibrant visuals, colorful animations, and fast-paced editing to match the energetic and funky nature of the song.
Year: 1989
Our final thoughts on the best 80s rap songs.
The 80s hip-hop was the era that heavily relied on taking snippets of songs and infusing them with lyrics. Fortunately, this experiment worked and birth the genre into the mainstream. It became an influence on culture, fashion, and style, as it reached a massive audience.
The 80s was the first decade of the rap game boom, but there aren't too many songs permanently engraved in music history. These best 80s rap songs helped changed the music landscape and paved the way for the genre’s popularity in later decades. Without these 80s rap songs, you would not see the current crop of rap artists in the game.
Overall, these best 80s rap songs left a lasting impact on the music industry and continue to be celebrated for their creativity, influence, and contributions to the evolution of hip-hop culture. The 80s was indeed the decade of the evolution of rap music.
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