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Last updated on Oct 6,2024, updated monthly. |
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 1 . Ll Cool J. - Loungin (w/ Total)"Loungin" is a 1996 track by LL Cool J that stands out for its laid-back vibe and lyrics about a complicated romantic relationship. The music video features LL Cool J in an extramarital affair, adding to the "complicated" theme. The remix, produced by Trackmasters and known as "Loungin (Who Do Ya Luv)," includes vocal performances by the R&B group Total. The song achieved high chart positions, reaching number 3 in the US and number 2 in the UK Hip Hop/R&B categories. It is certified Platinum in the US for over a million sales. The music video is directed by Hype Williams. Writer(s) : Rashad Smith, LL Cool J, Albert Joseph II Brown, Kyle Albert West Publisher(s) : Sadiyah S Music, Ll Cool J Music, Sony Atv Tunes Llc, Janice Combs Music, Emi Blackwood Music Inc, Def Jam Music Inc Featured on the 1996 album Mr. Smith
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 2 . Beastie Boys - She's CraftyProduced by Rick Rubin, who also works with Run-DMC and LL Cool J, "She's Crafty" by the Beastie Boys, released in 1986, tells the story of a manipulative and cunning woman. The song is notable for its creative use of samples, including "The Ocean" by Led Zeppelin, and for the seamless rap delivery where the three members take turns rapping, sometimes finishing each other's lines. Writer(s) : Michael Diamond, Rick Rubin, Adam Keefe Horovitz, Adam Nathaniel Yauch Publisher(s) : Def Jam Featured on the 1986 album Licensed To Ill
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 3 . Grandmaster Melle Mel - White Lines [Don't Don't Do It]Produced by Sylvia Robinson, Melle Mel, and Joey Robinson Jr, "White Lines (Don't Don't Do It)," released in 1983, is a classic hip-hop track addressing the dangers of cocaine use and becoming an anti-drug anthem. This song samples "Cavern" by Liquid Liquid, leading to a copyright lawsuit. Contrary to popular belief, Grandmaster Flash did not participate in the recording, having left the label a year earlier. "White Lines (Don't Don't Do It)" has been extensively sampled and covered, notably by Duran Duran in 1995. It appears in several films, including "Shaun of the Dead" and Spike Lee's "25th Hour." The music video is directed by Spike Lee. Writer(s) : Sylvia Robinson, Melvin L Glover Jr Publisher(s) : Twenty Nine Black Music, Liquid Liquid Publishing, Sugar Hill Music Publishing Ltd
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 4 . Anthrax - Bring Tha Noize"Bring Tha Noize" is a groundbreaking collaboration between the rap group Public Enemy, with Chuck D on vocals, and the metal band Anthrax providing the instrumental backing. Released in 1991, this track marked a unique fusion of rock and rap, breaking down musical genre barriers. "Bring Tha Noize" is a cover of the original Public Enemy track "Bring the Noise" featured in the soundtrack of the film "Less than Zero." Writer(s) : James Henry Iii Boxley, Eric T Sadler Publisher(s) : Your Mother S Music Inc, Terrordome Music Publishing Llc, Shocklee Music, Songs Of Reach Mc, Nfp Music When Rap Meets Rock
Linkin Park & Jay Z - Numb/EncoreThis 2004 collaboration blends Jay Z's rap with Linkin Park's rock sound, creating a memorable fusion.
Run DMC & Aerosmith - Walk This WayA groundbreaking 1986 track that merged hip hop and rock, revitalizing Aerosmith's career and boosting Run DMC's fame.
Gorillaz - Clint EastwoodReleased in 2001, this song features Damon Albarn's band and rapper Del the Funky Homosapien, mixing rock and hip hop.
The Maccabees & Roots Manuva - Empty VesselsA collaboration that brings together The Maccabees' indie rock with Roots Manuva's rap for a gritty reworking of the original track.
R.E.M. - Radio SongThis 1991 track features R.E.M. with rapper KRS-One, combining rock with a critique of commercial radio.
Coldplay & Jay Z - Lost+Jay Z adds a rap verse to Coldplay's "Lost", blending his hip hop style with the band's alternative rock sound.
Arctic Monkeys & Dizzee Rascal - Temptation Greets You Like Your Naughty FriendA 2007 collaboration featuring Dizzee Rascal's rap on a B-side track by Arctic Monkeys.
Blondie - RaptureReleased in 1980, Blondie’s track features Debbie Harry rapping, introducing mainstream audiences to hip hop.
Public Enemy & Anthrax - Bring the NoiseA 1991 collaboration that merges Public Enemy's rap with Anthrax's heavy metal sound, creating a high-energy track.
Cypress Hill & Tom Morello - Rise UpA powerful track that combines Cypress Hill's hip hop with the guitar riffs of Rage Against the Machine's Tom Morello. Featured on the 1991 album It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back
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 5 . Ll Cool J. - PhenomenonDescribing a humorous encounter in a club with a sophisticated woman, "Phenomenon," released in 1997, showcases a softer side of LL Cool J, with production by Sean "Diddy" Combs. The track charts well, reaching number 55 on the Billboard Hot 100. It samples Creative Source's cover of Bill Withers' "Who Is He (And What Is He to You)?" The phrase "Something like a phenomenon" and the beat are borrowed from "White Lines (Don't Don't Do It)" by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. The music video is directed by Paul Hunter. Writer(s) : Ronald A Lawrence, Puff Daddy, LL Cool J, William Harris Withers On, Stanley Wayn E Mc Kenney Publisher(s) : Emi April Music Inc, Universal Music Corporation, L L Cool J Music, Universal Music Careers, Justin Combs Music, Ausar Music Featured on the 1997 album Phenomenon
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 6 . Public Enemy - 911 Is A JokeInspired by a personal experience of Flavor Flav, Public Enemy's "911 Is a Joke," released in 1990, sharply criticizes the delayed response of emergency services in poor neighborhoods. Produced by The Bomb Squad, known for their dense and hard-hitting production style, the track features Flavor Flav's satirical tone and provocative lyrics. The music video is directed by Rupert Wainwright. Writer(s) : Keith M Boxley, Eric T Sadler, William Earl Collins, Bernie Worrell, William Jonath Drayton, George Clinton Publisher(s) : Songs Of Universal Inc, Reach Global Inc, Rubber Band Music, Bridgeport Music Inc Featured on the 1990 album Fear Of A Black Planet
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 7 . Afrika Bambaataa - Planet RockProduced by Arthur Baker, "Planet Rock," released in 1982, is a revolutionary work by Afrika Bambaataa. Mixing electro and hip-hop, this track samples the melody from Kraftwerk's "Trans-Europe Express" and the rhythmic base from "Numbers." It marks a turning point in music history by popularizing the use of drum machines and synthesizers in hip-hop. Afrika Bambaataa, a genre pioneer, is also one of the founders of the Zulu Nation. Writer(s) : Ralf Hutter, John C Gentile, Bambaataa Khaya/Aasim, Arthur Henry Baker, Robert Durrell Allen, John B Miller, Ellis Williams, Robert Durrell Allen, John B Miller, Ellis Williams Publisher(s) : Indulgent Music, Behind The Ropes Entertainment Llc, Shakin Baker Music, Bambaataa Music, Concord Road Featured on the 1982 album Planet Rock: The Album
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 8 . Ll Cool J. - Ain´t NobodyA true love song, "Ain't Nobody" by LL Cool J, released in 1996, is a cover of Chaka Khan's famous track. Produced by Rashad Smith, this version is included in the soundtrack of the film "Beavis and Butt-Head Do America," directed by Mike Judge. The song skillfully blends elements of rap and R&B, showcasing LL Cool J's versatility. The music video is directed by Antoine Fuqua. Writer(s) : David James Wolinski Publisher(s) : Emi Full Keel Music Featured on the 1996 album Phenomenon
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 9 . Public Enemy - Fight The Power"Fight the Power," released in 1989, is a song by Public Enemy commissioned by Spike Lee for his film "Do the Right Thing" featuring Danny Aiello and John Turturro. The song becomes an anthem of protest against racial injustices and an iconic slogan of the hip-hop movement and civil rights struggle. Chuck D and Flavor Flav deliver powerful lyrics, criticizing figures like Elvis Presley and John Wayne for their alleged racism, over a beat produced by The Bomb Squad. The music video is directed by Spike Lee. Writer(s) : Hank Shocklee, Eric T Sadler, Keith Shocklee, Carl Ridenhour Publisher(s) : Reach Music Songs, Def American Songs Inc Featured on the 1989 album Fear Of A Black Planet
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 10 . Whodini - Freaks Come Out at Night"Freaks Come Out at Night," released in 1984, is one of Whodini's most famous tracks. Produced by Larry Smith, the song describes nocturnal life and the eccentric characters one might encounter at night in clubs and streets, blending rap and funk. Whodini, composed of Jalil Hutchins and Ecstasy, is one of the first rap groups to incorporate R&B elements into their music, paving the way for many artists. The music video is directed by Adam Friedman. Writer(s) : Lawrence Smith, Jalil Hutchins Publisher(s) : Universal Music Z Tunes Llc, Funk Groove Music Publisher Co, Concord Copyrights London Limited Featured on the 1984 album Escape
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 11 . Public Enemy - He Got Game (w/ Stephen Stills)"He Got Game" by Public Enemy, featuring Stephen Stills, is the title track of the 1998 Spike Lee film of the same name, starring Denzel Washington and Ray Allen. The track samples "For What It's Worth" by Buffalo Springfield and addresses social justice and personal challenges, hallmarks of Public Enemy's style. The music video is directed by Spike Lee. Basket Ball Meets Cinema
He Got GameDirected by Spike Lee, this film follows the story of Jesus Shuttlesworth, a high school basketball star, and his father Jake Shuttlesworth, who tries to repair their relationship while seeking a reduced prison sentence.
HoosiersBased on a true story, this film tells the story of a small-town Indiana high school basketball team that overcomes obstacles to reach the state championship. Gene Hackman stars as the coach.
White Men Can't JumpThis comedy-drama stars Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson as two street basketball hustlers who team up to win money in tournaments.
Space JamA mix of animation and live-action, this film stars Michael Jordan who helps the Looney Tunes win a basketball game against aliens.
Coach CarterBased on a true story, this film tells the story of Ken Carter (played by Samuel L. Jackson), a high school basketball coach who emphasizes academics and discipline as much as sports.
Love & BasketballThis film follows the relationship between Monica (Sanaa Lathan) and Quincy (Omar Epps), two neighbors who share a passion for basketball and navigate the challenges of their personal relationship and sports careers.
Glory RoadBased on a true story, this film tells the story of the Texas Western College basketball team, which in 1966 became the first team to start an all-African American lineup in the NCAA championship game.
Above the RimThis film stars Duane Martin, Tupac Shakur, and Leon Robinson, and follows the story of a talented young basketball player caught between loyalty to his coach and the criminal influences of the street.
The Basketball DiariesBased on the memoirs of Jim Carroll, this film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as a young basketball player who descends into drug addiction.
Blue ChipsThis film stars Nick Nolte as a college basketball coach facing corruption and ethical dilemmas in player recruitment. Writer(s) : Luquantumleap, Carl Ridenhour, Steve Stills Publisher(s) : Def American Songs Inc, Reach Music Songs, Terrordome Music Publishing Llc Featured on the 1998 album He Got Game : Soundtrack
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 12 . MC Lyte - Keep On Keepin' (w/ Xscape)"Keep On Keepin' On," released in 1996, brings together MC Lyte, a pioneer of female rap, and the R&B group Xscape. Produced by Jermaine Dupri, the track reaches number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song's message of perseverance and empowerment is also featured in the soundtrack of the film "Sunset Park," directed by Steve Gomer. The music video is directed by Jada Pinkett Smith. Writer(s) : Jermaine Dupri, Michael Joe Jackson, MC Lyte Publisher(s) : So So Def Music, Emi April Music Inc, Top Billin Music Inc, Brooklyn Based Publishing Featured on the 1996 album Bad As I Wanna B
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 13 . Boogie Down Productions - Jack Of SpadesReleased in 1989, "Jack of Spades" is part of the soundtrack for the film "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka," directed by Keenen Ivory Wayans. The song, performed by KRS-One, addresses social and political themes over an energetic beat. Boogie Down Productions, pioneers of conscious rap, influence many artists with their engaged and educational approach to hip-hop. The music video is directed by Keenen Ivory Wayans. Writer(s) : , KRS One Publisher(s) : Universal Music Z Tunes Llc Featured on the 1989 album Ghetto Music: The Blueprint of Hip Hop
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 14 . DJ Kool - Let Me Clear My Throat (w/ Biz Markie & Doug E. Fresh)Released in 1996, "Let Me Clear My Throat" is a party anthem by DJ Kool, known for its irresistible hook and contagious energy. The track samples "The 900 Number" by The 45 King and features performances by Biz Markie and Doug E. Fresh. This song becomes a staple in clubs and sports events. DJ Kool, Biz Markie, and Doug E. Fresh are all significant figures in 90s hip-hop. The music video is directed by Phil Tuckett. Writer(s) : Mark Howard James, Ronald Scipio, Patrick Eato Patterson, DJ Kool Publisher(s) : Clr Inc, Warner Chappell Music Ltd Featured on the 1996 album Let Me Clear My Throat
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 15 . Sir Mix_A_Lot - Baby Got BackSampling "Technicolor" by Channel One, "Baby Got Back," released in 1992, is a track by Sir Mix-A-Lot celebrating the voluptuous shapes of women, particularly their buttocks, challenging the era's beauty standards that favored thinness. The song reaches number one on the Billboard Hot 100, stays in the top 100 for 12 weeks, and wins a Grammy Award. It is also known for its controversial music video and its use in films like "Shrek," directed by Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson. The music video is directed by Adam Bernstein. Writer(s) : Sir Mix A Lot Publisher(s) : Mix A Lot Publishing Featured on the 1992 album Mack Daddy
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 16 . Boogie Down Productions - Love's Gonna Get'cha [Material Love]"Love's Gonna Get'cha (Material Love)" is a song by Boogie Down Productions, released in 1990. Written by KRS-One, the track explores the pitfalls of material attachment and the dangers of street life, including the temptation of drug trafficking. The video was filmed in the South Bronx, highlighting the urban and realistic context of the song. The music video is directed by Peter McCarthy. Writer(s) : Antoinette Colandreo, Lawrence Parker Publisher(s) : Unknown Publisher, Round Hill Tunes Uk Featured on the 1989 album Edutainment
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 17 . Stetsasonic - Talkin' All That JazzProduced by Prince Paul, an original member of the group, "Talkin' All That Jazz," released in 1988, is a seminal track by Stetsasonic that defends the use of samples in hip-hop music. The song responds to the criticisms of the time against sampling. Stetsasonic, often considered the first hip-hop band, combines rap, jazz, and funk to create a unique and influential sound. The music video is directed by Fab 5 Freddy. Writer(s) : Glenn K Bolton Publisher(s) : Tee Girl Music Publishing Featured on the 1988 album In Full Gear
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 18 . Heavy D & The Boyz - Is It Good To YouProduced by Teddy Riley, a key figure in the new jack swing movement, "Is It Good To You," released in 1991, is a track by Heavy D & The Boyz featuring singer Tammy Lucas on the chorus. The song is included in the soundtrack of the film "Juice," directed by Ernest R. Dickerson. Heavy D, the group's leader, is also known for his collaborations with artists like Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson. The music video is directed by Drew Carolan. Writer(s) : Norman Washin Gton Giscombe, Teddy Riley, Heavy D, Robert Oliver Carter Publisher(s) : Donril Music, Universal Music Z Tunes, Across 110Th Street Publishing Featured on the 1991 album Peaceful Journey
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 19 . Heavy D & The Boyz - Now That We Found Love (w/ Aaron Hall)Produced by Teddy Riley, a New Jack Swing pioneer, "Now That We Found Love," released in 1991, is a hip-hop hit by Heavy D & The Boyz, featuring Aaron Hall from Guy. The track, a cover of The O'Jays' classic, peaks at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100. It includes samples from Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble's "Mary Had a Little Lamb" and blends R&B and hip-hop elements to create an irresistible party vibe. The music video is directed by Drew Carolan. Writer(s) : Leon A Huff, Kenneth Gamble, Heavy D Featured on the 1991 album Peaceful Journey
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 20 . En Vogue - Whatta ManA collaboration between En Vogue and Salt-N-Pepa, "Whatta Man," released in 1993, celebrates positive and respectful men with a blend of R&B and rap. The track reaches number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and is often associated with feminist energy and women's empowerment. Produced by Hurby "Luv Bug" Azor, known for his work with Salt-N-Pepa on tracks like "Push It" and "Shoop," this song remains iconic. Fun fact: In the music video, Cindy Herron, a member of En Vogue, was pregnant and appears only in the chorus scenes. The music video is directed by Matthew Rolston. Writer(s) : Dave Crawford, Herby E Azor, Cheryl James Publisher(s) : Almo Music Corporation, Next Plateau Music Inc, Bed Of Nails Music Inc, Sons Of K Oss Music Inc Featured on the 1993 album Very Necessary
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ABOUT OLD SCHOOL HIP HOPThe basic words of Old School Hip HopOld School Hip Hop, born in the late 1970s and early 1980s in New York’s working-class neighborhoods, emerges in response to the difficult socio-economic conditions faced by African-American and Latino communities in the Bronx, Harlem, and Brooklyn. Block parties, these neighborhood gatherings where DJs use turntables to mix vinyl records, become the fertile ground for this new form of art. DJ Kool Herc, often considered the founding father of hip hop, organizes one of the first block parties in 1973. Using two turntables, he creates extended percussion breaks, allowing dancers to fully express themselves. DJing is one of the pillars of Old School Hip Hop. Iconic figures like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Grand Wizard Theodore develop innovative techniques such as scratching, beat juggling, and backspinning. These techniques transform turntables into musical instruments, creating unique rhythms and sounds. MCing, or rapping, emerges as a form of rhythmic storytelling. Early MCs use their lyrics to energize crowds and narrate everyday life stories. The rap of this era is often characterized by simple, repetitive rhymes, focusing on rhythm and cadence. The commercial success of “Rapper’s Delight” by the Sugarhill Gang in 1979 marks a crucial step, introducing rap to a wider audience. Breakdancing, also known as b-boying, is another essential component of Old School Hip Hop. Dancers, called b-boys and b-girls, develop acrobatic and stylized movements, often performed during the DJs’ musical breaks. Crews popularize breakdancing through competitions and public performances, contributing to the global rise of this dance form. Cultural Impact and LegacyOld School Hip Hop profoundly influences music and popular culture. In the 1980s, hip hop begins to spread beyond New York’s neighborhoods, influencing other musical genres like funk, jazz, and rock. Graffiti, fashion, language, and attitudes associated with hip hop also infiltrate mainstream culture, leaving a lasting mark on youth aesthetics and behavior. Graffiti, often seen as the visual expression of hip hop, plays a key role in old school culture. Artists like Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat use city walls as canvases, creating artworks that denounce social injustices and express urban identity. Graffiti becomes a powerful means of communication and advocacy for young people in disadvantaged neighborhoods. Old School Hip Hop finds a prominent place in popular culture through films, TV shows, and video games. For example, the film “Wild Style” (1982), directed by Charlie Ahearn, documents the rise of hip hop in New York and contributes to its internationalization. “Beat Street” (1984), directed by Stan Lathan, also highlights elements of hip hop culture, inspiring millions of young people worldwide. Old School Hip Hop & FashionOld School Hip Hop exerts a major influence on fashion, defining styles that persist and evolve to this day. Hip hop pioneers adopt clothing and accessories that become emblematic of urban culture. Sneakers, particularly Adidas Superstars popularized by Run-DMC with their song “My Adidas,” become a symbol of status and style. This trend influences sports brands to collaborate with hip hop artists, creating clothing and footwear lines specific to the genre. Accessories like gold chains, sunglasses, and Kangol hats become signatures of the old school look. LL Cool J is particularly known for his beanies and chains, adding a distinctive touch to his image. Tracksuits, leather jackets, and baggy jeans are key elements of hip hop fashion. These clothes reflect not only a casual style but also a claim of identity and resistance. The label FUBU (For Us By Us), founded by Daymond John, is an example of a brand directly inspired by hip hop culture, aiming to provide clothing created by and for the African-American community. Sports and streetwear brand logos become cultural icons. Clothes bearing Nike, Puma, and Starter logos are highly prized and symbolize belonging to hip hop culture. Old School Hip Hop fashion is not just a stylistic choice but also a social and cultural statement. It allows young people from disadvantaged neighborhoods to express their identity and solidarity. This style influences decades of urban fashion and continues to reinvent itself across generations while retaining its roots in the original expressions of hip hop culture. |
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