Classic Hip Hop: Best Songs From The 70s, 80s, & 90s

Hey guys! Ready to take a trip down memory lane? We're diving deep into the golden age of hip hop, exploring the best songs from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. This era shaped the music we listen to today, and it's packed with iconic tracks that still sound fresh. So, let's get started and celebrate some timeless bangers!

Hip Hop in the 70s: The Foundation

Hip hop in the 70s was all about raw energy and innovation. Originating in the Bronx, New York, it was a cultural movement born from block parties and a need for expression. DJs were the heroes, creating beats by looping records, and MCs added their lyrical flow to hype up the crowd. This decade laid the foundation for everything that followed.

One of the earliest and most influential tracks was “Rapper’s Delight” by The Sugarhill Gang (1979). This song was a game-changer, introducing hip hop to a wider audience and proving that it could be commercially successful. Its infectious beat and catchy rhymes made it an instant classic. Before “Rapper’s Delight,” hip hop was largely a local phenomenon, confined to the boroughs of New York City. This song broke those barriers, reaching national and international airwaves, and selling millions of copies. The success of “Rapper’s Delight” opened doors for other hip hop artists and labels, paving the way for the genre to grow and evolve. The Sugarhill Gang, despite not being from the streets in the same way as some other early hip hop pioneers, played a crucial role in popularizing the music and culture. The song's impact can still be felt today, as it continues to be played and sampled by artists across various genres. It’s a testament to the power of innovation and the enduring appeal of a well-crafted beat and rhyme.

Another pivotal figure was DJ Kool Herc, often credited as one of the founding fathers of hip hop. His parties at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue are legendary, and his technique of isolating and looping the breakbeats of funk and soul records created the foundation for hip hop music. While he didn't release commercial recordings in the 70s, his influence is undeniable. Kool Herc's innovation wasn't just about playing music; it was about creating a new experience. By focusing on the breakbeats, the parts of the song where the rhythm was most intense, he created a space for dancers to show off their skills. This led to the rise of breakdancing, another key element of hip hop culture. Kool Herc's parties were more than just entertainment; they were community events that brought people together and fostered a sense of belonging. His impact on hip hop is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire artists and DJs today.

Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five also emerged in the late 70s, showcasing incredible DJ skills and socially conscious lyrics. Tracks like “Superrappin’” demonstrated their innovative techniques and lyrical prowess. Grandmaster Flash was a true innovator, pushing the boundaries of what a DJ could do. He developed techniques like the quick mix, backspinning, and phasing, which allowed him to manipulate records in ways that had never been done before. These techniques not only enhanced the music but also transformed the DJ into a central figure in hip hop. The Furious Five added another layer to the group's appeal with their dynamic stage presence and lyrical skills. They tackled important social issues in their rhymes, addressing poverty, crime, and inequality. This combination of innovative DJing and socially conscious lyrics made Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five one of the most influential groups of the era. Their contributions helped to solidify hip hop's place as a powerful form of artistic expression and social commentary.

Hip Hop in the 80s: The Golden Age

The 80s are often considered the golden age of hip hop. This decade saw the genre explode in creativity, with diverse styles and groundbreaking artists emerging. From the rise of Def Jam Recordings to the crossover success of hip hop on MTV, the 80s were a time of rapid growth and innovation.

One of the defining artists of the 80s was Run-DMC. Their stripped-down sound, combining hard-hitting beats with simple yet powerful rhymes, revolutionized hip hop. Tracks like “Sucker M.C.’s” (1983) and “Walk This Way” (1986) (a collaboration with Aerosmith) broke down barriers and brought hip hop to a wider audience. Run-DMC's impact on hip hop cannot be overstated. They were among the first to popularize the Adidas tracksuit and shell-toe sneakers as fashion staples, influencing hip hop style for decades to come. Their music videos on MTV helped to break down racial barriers and introduce hip hop to a mainstream audience. “Walk This Way,” in particular, was a groundbreaking collaboration that bridged the gap between rock and hip hop, demonstrating the potential for cross-genre appeal. Run-DMC's success paved the way for other hip hop artists to gain mainstream recognition and commercial success. They proved that hip hop could be both authentic and popular, setting a new standard for the genre.

The Beastie Boys also made a huge splash in the 80s with their humorous lyrics and energetic performances. Their album “Licensed to Ill” (1986) was a massive success, spawning hits like “(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (To Party!)” and “No Sleep Till Brooklyn.” The Beastie Boys brought a unique energy and sense of humor to hip hop that resonated with audiences of all ages. As one of the first white hip hop groups to achieve mainstream success, they helped to break down racial barriers and expand the genre's appeal. Their music videos were creative and irreverent, adding to their popularity. “Licensed to Ill” was a groundbreaking album that helped to solidify hip hop's place in mainstream culture. The Beastie Boys' success proved that hip hop could be fun, accessible, and commercially viable, paving the way for other artists to experiment with different styles and approaches.

Public Enemy brought a politically charged message to hip hop in the late 80s. Their album “It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back” (1988) is considered a classic, with tracks like “Don’t Believe the Hype” and “Bring the Noise” addressing issues of race, inequality, and social justice. Public Enemy's music was confrontational and unapologetic, challenging the status quo and demanding change. Their lyrics were dense and complex, requiring listeners to pay close attention. Chuck D's booming voice and Flavor Flav's energetic antics created a dynamic stage presence that captivated audiences. Public Enemy's influence on hip hop extends beyond their music. They helped to raise awareness of important social issues and inspired other artists to use their music as a platform for activism. Their legacy continues to resonate today, as a new generation of artists carries on their tradition of socially conscious hip hop.

Hip Hop in the 90s: Diversity and Expansion

The 90s saw hip hop diversify and expand in new directions. From the rise of gangsta rap to the emergence of alternative hip hop, this decade was a melting pot of styles and perspectives. The 90s also saw the growth of regional scenes, with cities like Atlanta and Houston making their mark on the hip hop landscape.

The Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls, was one of the biggest stars of the 90s. His album “Ready to Die” (1994) is considered a masterpiece, showcasing his incredible storytelling ability and lyrical flow. Tracks like “Juicy” and “Big Poppa” became instant classics. The Notorious B.I.G.'s impact on hip hop is undeniable. He was a master of wordplay and storytelling, painting vivid pictures of life on the streets of Brooklyn. His music was both gritty and glamorous, reflecting the complexities of his own life. Biggie's untimely death in 1997 cut short a promising career, but his legacy continues to inspire artists today. He is remembered as one of the greatest rappers of all time, and his music continues to be celebrated for its lyrical brilliance and emotional depth.

Tupac Shakur, another iconic figure of the 90s, brought a raw and emotional intensity to his music. His albums “Me Against the World” (1995) and “All Eyez on Me” (1996) explored themes of poverty, violence, and social injustice. Tracks like “Dear Mama” and “California Love” became anthems for a generation. Tupac's impact on hip hop is profound. He was a charismatic and controversial figure who wasn't afraid to speak his mind. His music reflected the struggles and challenges of his own life, and it resonated with listeners who felt marginalized and disenfranchised. Tupac's death in 1996 remains a mystery, but his legacy continues to live on. He is remembered as a visionary artist who used his music to inspire change and fight for justice.

A Tribe Called Quest offered a more alternative and introspective take on hip hop. Their album “The Low End Theory” (1991) is considered a classic, with its jazzy beats and thoughtful lyrics. Tracks like “Check the Rhime” and “Scenario” showcased their unique style and intellectual approach. A Tribe Called Quest's influence on hip hop is significant. They helped to expand the genre's boundaries, proving that hip hop could be both intelligent and entertaining. Their music was characterized by its mellow grooves, intricate rhymes, and positive messages. A Tribe Called Quest's legacy continues to inspire artists who seek to push the boundaries of hip hop and create music that is both thought-provoking and enjoyable.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a quick journey through the best hip hop songs from the 70s, 80s, and 90s! These decades were a breeding ground for creativity and innovation, shaping the genre into what it is today. From the foundational beats of the 70s to the diverse sounds of the 90s, each era brought something unique to the table. Whether you're a seasoned hip hop head or just starting to explore the genre, these tracks are essential listening. Keep exploring, keep listening, and keep the hip hop spirit alive!