The Golden Age of Hip Hop: A Guide to the 90s Rap Scene

Do you love rap music? Do you miss the days when rap music was fresh, innovative, and diverse? Do you want to relive the glory days of some of the greatest rap artists and songs of all time? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this article is for you.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the 90s rap scene and show you why it was the golden age of hip hop.

The 90s was a decade that changed rap music forever. It was a decade that saw the birth and growth of various subgenres and styles of rap music, such as gangsta rap, conscious rap, alternative rap, hardcore rap, southern rap, and more.

It was also a decade that witnessed the rise and fall of some of the most legendary and influential rap artists of all time, such as Tupac Shakur, Notorious B.I.G., Snoop Dogg, Lauryn Hill, Nas, Jay-Z, and many more.

These artists shaped the rap scene with their skills, styles, stories, and messages. They also influenced many other artists who came after them, both in rap and other genres.

• What was the most successful rap song in the 90s?
• Who are the most influential rap artists of the 90s?
• What are some of the most memorable rap lyrics of the 90s?

We’ll also provide you with a list of 50 of the most popular rap songs of the 90s that you can enjoy or explore on your own.

So sit back, relax, and get ready to experience the golden age of hip hop.

Let’s get started!

What was the most successful rap song in the 90s?
There were many successful rap songs in the 90s, but one of the most iconic and commercially successful was “Baby Got Back” by Sir Mix-a-Lot. 

Of course, there were rap songs in the 90s that were also very successful and popular. Some of them include:

• Tupac’s “California Love” (1996): This song was a celebration of Tupac’s return to his home state after being released from prison. It featured Dr. Dre and Roger Troutman on vocals and production, and it became one of Tupac’s signature songs. It was also one of the last songs he recorded before his death.
• Notorious B.I.G.’s “Big Poppa” (1994): This song was a smooth and seductive anthem that showcased Biggie’s charisma, flow, and storytelling skills. It was also one of his biggest hits, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning him a Grammy nomination.
• Snoop Dogg’s “Nuthin’ But a G Thang” (1992): This song was a collaboration between Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, who introduced Snoop to the world with his debut album, The Chronic. It was a song that defined the West Coast gangsta rap sound with its laid-back beats, funky samples, and explicit lyrics.

These are just some examples of the best rap songs of the 90s that were also very successful. There are many more that we could mention, but we’ll leave it to you to discover them.

Who are the most influential rap artists of the 90s?

The 90s was a decade that saw the rise and fall of some of the most influential rap artists of all time.

These artists shaped the rap scene with their styles, skills, stories, and messages. They also influenced many other artists who came after them, both in rap and other genres.

Here are some of the most influential rap artists of the 90s:

Tupac: Tupac was arguably the most influential rap artist of all time. He was a prolific and versatile rapper who released several albums and songs in his short career. He was also a poet, actor, and activist who spoke out against social injustice, racism, and violence. He was known for his emotional, passionate, and controversial lyrics that touched on various topics, such as love, death, politics, and spirituality. He was also involved in several feuds and conflicts with other rappers, such as Biggie Smalls, Nas, and Jay-Z. He died in 1996 after being shot in Las Vegas, but his legacy lives on through his music and his fans.

Notorious B.I.G.: Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls or simply Biggie, was another influential rap artist who died too soon. He was a masterful rapper who had an amazing flow, delivery, and wordplay. He was also a storyteller who narrated his life experiences in vivid detail, from his humble beginnings in Brooklyn to his rise to fame and fortune. He was known for his smooth and catchy songs that blended hardcore rap with R&B influences. He was also involved in several feuds and conflicts with other rappers, particularly Tupac Shakur, of whom he was accused of murder. He died in 1997 after being shot in Los Angeles, but his music and influence remain timeless.

Snoop Dogg: Snoop Dogg was one of the most successful and popular rap artists of the 1990s. He was a protégé of Dr. Dre, who helped him launch his career with his debut album, Doggystyle (1993). He was known for his smooth and laid-back style, his distinctive voice, and his witty and humorous lyrics. He was also one of the pioneers of the West Coast gangsta rap sound, along with Dr. Dre, Tupac, and others. He was also one of the first rap artists to cross over to other genres and media, such as reggae, funk, pop, and movies. He is still active and relevant today, with over 20 albums and countless collaborations under his belt.

Lauryn Hill: Lauryn Hill was one of the most talented and influential female rap artists of the 90s. She was a member of the Fugees, a hip-hop group that achieved worldwide success with their 1996 album The Score (1996). She was also a solo artist who released her critically acclaimed and commercially successful album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998). She was known for her soulful and powerful voice, her poetic and conscious lyrics, and her musical versatility. She was also one of the first rap artists to win multiple Grammys, including Album of the Year. She is widely regarded as one of the best rap artists of all time, male or female.

Nas: Nas was one of the most respected and influential rap artists of the 90s. He was a prodigy who released his debut album, Illmatic (1994), when he was only 20 years old. He was known for his complex and clever lyrics, his storytelling ability, and his social commentary. He was also one of the leaders of the East Coast rap scene, along with Biggie Smalls, Jay-Z, and others. He was involved in several feuds and conflicts with other rappers, especially Jay-Z, with whom he had a legendary rap battle in the early 2000s. He is still active and revered today, with over 10 albums to his name and numerous accolades.These are just some of the most influential rap artists of the 90s. There are many more that we could mention, such as Jay-Z, the Wu-Tang Clan, Outkast, Eminem, and more.

But we’ll let you explore them on your own.

What are some of the most memorable rap lyrics of the 90s?
The 90s was a decade that produced some of the most memorable rap lyrics of all time. These lyrics capture the essence, culture, and spirit of the decade. They also reflect the different genres, themes, and perspectives of rap music, such as gangsta rap, conscious rap, alternative rap, female rap, and more. Here are some examples of the most memorable rap lyrics of the 90s:

“I see no changes / Wake up in the morning and I ask myself / Is life worth living? Should I blast myself?” – Tupac Shakur, “Changes” (1998)

“It was all a dream / I used to read Word Up magazine / Salt-n-Pepa and Heavy D up in the limousine” – Notorious B.I.G., “Juicy” (1994)

“One two three into the four / Snoop Doggy Dogg and Dr. Dre is at the door” – Snoop Dogg feat. Dr. Dre, “Nuthin’ But a G Thang” (1992)

“Ready or not / Here I come / You can’t hide / Gonna find you / And take it slowly” – Fugees feat. Lauryn Hill, “Ready or Not” (1996)

“Life’s a bitch / And then you die / That’s why we get high / Cause you never know when you’re gonna go” – Nas feat. AZ, “Life’s a Bitch” (1994)

“I’m not a businessman / I’m a business / Man” – Jay-Z feat. Kanye West & Rihanna, “Diamonds from Sierra Leone (Remix)” (2005)

“Cash rules everything around me / C.R.E.A.M., get the money / Dollar dollar bill y’all” – Wu-Tang Clan, “C.R.E.A.M.” (1993)

“I’m sorry Ms. Jackson / I am for real / Never meant to make your daughter cry / I apologize a trillion times” – Outkast, “Ms. Jackson” (2000)

“Hi / My name is / What? / My name is / Who? / My name is / Slim Shady” – Eminem, “My Name Is” (1999)

“You might win some / But you just lost one” – Lauryn Hill, “Lost Ones” (1998)

These are just some examples of the most memorable rap lyrics of the 90s. There are many more that we could quote, but we’ll leave it to you to remember them.

50 of the most popular rap songs of the 90s

Tupac – “California Love” feat Dr. Dre and Roger Troutman (1996): A celebration of Tupac’s return to his home state after being released from prison. The song features a sample from the 1982 song “Woman to Woman” by Joe Cocker and tells the story of the West Coast lifestyle, including the party scene, gang life, and car culture. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious beat helped it become a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries.

Notorious B.I.G. – “Big Poppa” (1994): A smooth and seductive anthem that showcased Biggie’s charisma, flow, and storytelling skills. “Big Poppa” features a sample from the 1982 song “Between the Sheets” by The Isley Brothers and tells the story of a ladies’ man who enjoys the finer things in life. The song’s laid-back groove and smooth flow helped it become a major hit, reaching the top 10 of the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Snoop Dogg ft. Dr. Dre – “Nuthin’ But a G Thang” (1992): A song that defined the West Coast gangsta rap sound with its laid-back beats, funky samples, and explicit lyrics. It features a sample from the 1976 song “I Want’a Do Something Freaky to You” by Leon Haywood and showcases Snoop Dogg’s smooth flow and Dr. Dre’s production skills. The song’s catchy chorus and iconic music video helped it become a classic of West Coast hip hop.

Fugees ft. Lauryn Hill – “Ready or Not” (1996): A song that features a sample from the 1972 song “Boadicea” by Enya and tells the story of the group’s rise to fame and their determination to succeed. The song’s catchy chorus and Lauryn Hill’s soulful and powerful vocals helped it become a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries.

Nas feat. AZ – “Life’s a Bitch” (1994): The song was released as part of Nas’ debut album “Illmatic”.

“Life’s a Bitch” features a sample from the 1980 song “Yearning for Your Love” by The Gap Band and tells the story of the struggles and challenges of life, as well as the joys and pleasures.

In the song, Nas and AZ take turns rapping about their experiences growing up in the inner city and the harsh realities they faced, including poverty, crime, and violence. Despite the challenges they faced, they also rap about finding joy in life and pursuing their dreams.

The song is often regarded as a classic of 1990s hip hop, praised for its introspective lyrics, smooth flow, and jazzy production. It has been sampled and referenced in numerous other songs and is considered one of Nas’ greatest works.

Wu-Tang Clan – “C.R.E.A.M.” (1993): The song was released in 1993 as part of their debut album “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)”. The song’s title is an acronym for “Cash Rules Everything Around Me,” and it explores the group’s experiences growing up in poverty and their struggle to make a living.

The song features a sample from the 1966 song “As Long As I’ve Got You” by The Charmels and showcases the lyrical talents of Wu-Tang Clan members Raekwon and Inspectah Deck. The song’s iconic chorus and gritty, soulful production helped it become a classic of 1990s hip hop and a fan favorite.

“C.R.E.A.M.” has been sampled and referenced in numerous other songs, movies, and TV shows, and is often cited as one of Wu-Tang Clan’s greatest works. The song’s message about the importance of money and survival in the face of poverty has resonated with audiences for decades and continues to be a staple of hip hop culture.

Outkast – “Ms. Jackson” (2000): The song was released as part of their album “Stankonia”. The song was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2002.

“Ms. Jackson” is a song about the break-up of a romantic relationship and the difficulties that come with navigating the aftermath, including dealing with the emotions of both parties and the family members affected by the break-up. The song’s title is a reference to the mother of Outkast member André 3000’s ex-girlfriend, and the song is essentially an apology to her for the pain caused by the break-up.

The song features a catchy chorus and a unique blend of hip hop, R&B, and pop music, with André 3000 and fellow Outkast member Big Boi showcasing their lyrical abilities and vocal range. “Ms. Jackson” became one of Outkast’s most popular and enduring songs, and has been praised for its emotional depth and universal themes of heartbreak and regret.

Eminem – “My Name Is” (1999): A song that introduced Eminem to the world with his humorous and controversial lyrics.It was was released as part of his debut album “The Slim Shady LP”.

The song is a satirical take on fame and the music industry, with Eminem using humor and shock value to criticize society’s obsession with celebrity culture.

Lauryn Hill – “Lost Ones” (1998): A song that dissed her former Fugees bandmate Wyclef Jean and showcased her rap skills.It was released as part of her debut solo album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill”.

The song is a scathing critique of the music industry and the people who are willing to compromise their values and beliefs in order to achieve success.

Pete Rock & CL Smooth – “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)” (1992): A song that paid tribute to their friend and fellow rapper Trouble T Roy who died in an accident. It was released as part of their album “Mecca and the Soul Brother”.

Geto Boys – “Mind Playing Tricks on Me” (1991): A song that depicted the paranoia, violence, and trauma of living in the ghetto. It was released as part of their album “We Can’t Be Stopped”.

Eric B & Rakim – “Don’t Sweat the Technique” (1992): The song is a celebration of the art and craft of hip hop music, with Eric B’s production and Rakim’s lyrical flow coming together to create a classic of the genre. It was released as part of their album “Don’t Sweat the Technique”.

Canibus – “Second Round KO” (1998): The song was released in response to LL Cool J’s diss track “The Ripper Strikes Back”, which contained a verse aimed at Canibus.

“Second Round KO” features Canibus rapping over a beat produced by fellow rapper and producer Wyclef Jean.

The song includes several personal attacks on LL Cool J, including jabs at his acting career and accusations of ghostwriting.

The song’s title references the fact that LL Cool J had already released a diss track aimed at Canibus, and Canibus is essentially responding with a “second round” of insults.

“Second Round KO” was a commercial success, and helped to elevate Canibus’s profile in the hip hop world, although many fans and critics felt that the song was not as effective as LL Cool J’s original diss track.

Kool G Rap & DJ Polo – “Ill Street Blues” (1992): It was released as part of their album “Live and Let Die”.

The song features Kool G Rap rapping over a sample-heavy beat produced by Large Professor, with DJ Polo providing scratches and additional vocal samples.

The song is a gritty, detailed portrait of life on the streets of New York City, with Kool G Rap painting a vivid picture of the violence, poverty, and crime that he witnessed growing up.

The lyrics are full of intricate rhymes and clever wordplay, as Kool G Rap showcases his technical skill as a rapper.

“Ill Street Blues” is widely regarded as a classic of the hip hop genre, and has been praised for its vivid storytelling and innovative production.

The song has been sampled and referenced by numerous other artists over the years, and is considered a seminal work in the canon of East Coast hip hop.

AZ – “Sugar Hill” (1995): It was released as part of his debut album “Doe or Die”.

The song features AZ rapping over a smooth, jazzy beat produced by L.E.S., with a prominent sample from jazz pianist Bob James’s song “Nautilus”.

The song is named after the Sugar Hill neighborhood of Harlem, New York City, and AZ uses the lyrics to paint a vivid portrait of life on the streets of the neighborhood.

He raps about the drug trade, police brutality, and the struggle to survive in a tough environment.

The lyrics are notable for their vivid imagery and intricate wordplay, with AZ demonstrating his skills as a lyricist.

“Sugar Hill” was a critical and commercial success, and helped to establish AZ as one of the most promising new artists in the hip hop scene at the time.

The song has been cited as a classic of the genre, and is often praised for its innovative production and intelligent lyrics.

Gang Starr – “Mass Appeal” (1994): A song that criticised the mainstream rap scene and stayed true to their underground roots.

“Mass Appeal” was released as part of their album “Hard to Earn”. The song features Guru rapping over a sample-heavy beat produced by DJ Premier, with scratches and vocal samples providing additional texture.

The song is a celebration of the “mass appeal” of Gang Starr’s music, with Guru rapping about their growing popularity and the respect they have earned in the hip hop community.

The lyrics are full of clever wordplay and vivid imagery, as Guru showcases his skills as a lyricist.

“Mass Appeal” was a commercial and critical success, and helped to establish Gang Starr as one of the leading hip hop acts of the mid-1990s.

The song has been cited as a classic of the genre, and is often praised for its innovative production and intelligent lyrics.

It has been sampled and referenced by numerous other artists over the years, and remains a beloved track among hip hop fans.

Master P – “Make em Say Uhhh” (1997): A song that featured Master P’s signature grunt and his No Limit crew members.

It was released as part of his album “MP Da Last Don”. The song features Master P rapping over a beat produced by KLC, with guest verses from fellow No Limit Records artists Fiend, Silkk the Shocker, Mia X, and Mystikal.

The song’s title is a reference to a catchphrase popularized by NBA player and rapper Shaquille O’Neal, and the lyrics are full of references to basketball and other sports.

The chorus features a catchy call-and-response hook that has become one of the most memorable in hip hop history.

“Make ‘Em Say Uhh!” was a commercial and critical success, and helped to establish Master P and No Limit Records as major players in the hip hop industry.

The song’s catchy chorus and memorable lyrics have made it a favorite among fans, and it remains one of Master P’s most popular tracks to this day.

Akinyele – “Put It in Your Mouth” (1996): A song that was one of the most explicit and raunchy rap songs ever made. It was released as part of his debut album “Vagina Diner”.

The song features Akinyele rapping over a beat produced by Erick Sermon, with guest vocals from Kia Jeffries providing the song’s memorable chorus.

The song’s lyrics are explicit and sexually graphic, as Akinyele raps about various sexual acts and encourages his partner to perform oral sex on him.

Despite its controversial content, the song became a commercial and critical success, and helped to establish Akinyele as a prominent figure in the hip hop industry.

“Put It in Your Mouth” has been both praised and criticized for its explicit content, with some hip hop fans considering it a classic of the genre and others condemning it for its sexist and misogynistic lyrics. The song remains a controversial and divisive track in hip hop history.

Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg – “Still D.R.E.” (1999): A song that marked Dr. Dre’s comeback after a long hiatus and reaffirmed his status as a rap legend.

The song was released as the lead single from Dr. Dre’s second studio album “2001”.

The song features a slow, piano-driven beat produced by Dr. Dre and Mel-Man, over which Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg trade verses about their success and longevity in the music industry.

The chorus features a catchy hook sung by Snoop Dogg, and the song’s instrumentation features elements of funk, soul, and hip hop.

“Still D.R.E.” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and receiving widespread acclaim for its production and lyricism.

The song has become a classic of West Coast hip hop, and is widely regarded as one of Dr. Dre’s greatest tracks.

Tupac – “Dear Mama” (1995): The song was released as a tribute to his mother, Afeni Shakur. The song was included on Tupac’s third studio album “Me Against the World”.

“Dear Mama” features a sample from the classic soul song “In the Rain” by The Dramatics, and a slow, melancholic beat produced by Tony Pizarro.

Over this beat, Tupac raps about his difficult childhood and his love and respect for his mother, who he credits with helping him through tough times.

“Dear Mama” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and earning widespread acclaim for its emotional honesty and heartfelt tribute to Tupac’s mother.

The song has become one of Tupac’s most popular and enduring tracks, and is considered a classic of 1990s hip hop.

Ice Cube – “It Was a Good Day” (1992): A song that described a rare day in Ice Cube’s life where everything went well and nothing bad happened.

The song was released as the second single from his third studio album, “The Predator”.

The song features a laid-back, funky beat produced by Ice Cube, DJ Pooh and Da Lench Mob, and is built around a sample of the Isley Brothers’ “Footsteps in the Dark”.

Over this beat, Ice Cube raps about a seemingly perfect day in his life, detailing various activities like playing basketball, meeting a girl, and eating breakfast with no interruptions or incidents.

“It Was a Good Day” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top 20 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Ice Cube’s most well-known and beloved tracks.

The song is widely regarded as a classic of West Coast hip hop, and has been sampled and referenced by numerous other artists in the years since its release.

Notorious B.I.G. – “Hypnotize” (1997): The song was released as the lead single from his second and final studio album “Life After Death”.

The song features a funky beat produced by Deric “D-Dot” Angelettie and Ron “Amen-Ra” Lawrence, built around a sample of Herb Alpert’s “Rise”.

Over this beat, The Notorious B.I.G. raps about his success and wealth, boasting about his cars, jewelry, and women.

“Hypnotize” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the US Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of The Notorious B.I.G.’s most popular and recognizable songs.

The song’s catchy chorus, memorable beat, and Biggie’s smooth flow have made it a classic of 1990s hip hop, and it continues to be a staple of radio and club playlists to this day.

LL Cool J – “Mama Said Knock You Out” (1990): A song that proved LL Cool J’s rap skills and revived his career after being criticised by critics and fans.

“Mama Said Knock You Out” was released as the lead single from his album of the same name.

The song was produced by Marley Marl and features a hard-hitting beat built around a sample of James Brown’s “The Payback”.

Over this beat, LL Cool J delivers aggressive and confident verses, proclaiming his skills as a rapper and warning his competitors that he’s not to be messed with.

The song’s title and hook come from LL Cool J’s grandmother, who advised him to “knock out” anyone who threatened him or his family. The phrase has since become a catchphrase and symbol of LL Cool J’s toughness and attitude.

“Mama Said Knock You Out” was a major success, reaching the top 20 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and earning LL Cool J a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance.

The song’s powerful lyrics and catchy beat have made it a classic of 1990s hip hop, and it continues to be a favorite of LL Cool J’s fans and hip hop heads alike.

A Tribe Called Quest – “Check The Rhime” (1991): A song that showcased Q-Tip and Phife Dawg’s chemistry and humour over a jazzy beat.

The song was released as the lead single from their second album, “The Low End Theory”.

The song was produced by group member Q-Tip and features him and fellow member Phife Dawg trading verses over a jazzy beat built around a sample from “Baby, This Love I Have” by the Detroit Emeralds.

The song’s lyrics celebrate the art of hip hop and the creativity and originality of A Tribe Called Quest’s style.

The chorus, “Check the rhime, y’all”, encourages listeners to pay attention to the group’s lyrics and flow, and to appreciate the unique style and skill that they bring to the table.

“Check the Rhime” was a critical and commercial success, helping to establish A Tribe Called Quest as one of the most innovative and influential hip hop groups of the 1990s.

The song’s positive message and infectious groove have made it a classic of the era, and it continues to be celebrated by fans and critics as one of the greatest hip hop songs of all time.

Juvenile – “Ha!” (1998): A song that introduced Juvenile and Cash Money Records to the mainstream with its unique style and slang.

The song was released as the lead single from his second studio album, “400 Degreez”.

The song was produced by Mannie Fresh and features a minimalist beat built around a sample from “Drag Rap” by The Showboys.

The song’s lyrics are focused on Juvenile’s gritty experiences growing up in New Orleans, Louisiana, and the challenges he faced in the city’s rough neighborhoods.

The chorus, “Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha”, is a taunting refrain aimed at his critics and detractors, and it has become one of the most memorable and iconic hooks in hip hop history.

“Ha!” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100 and helping to establish Juvenile as one of the leading voices in the Dirty South hip hop movement.

The song’s hard-hitting production and Juvenile’s gritty, streetwise lyrics helped to define the sound of Southern hip hop in the late 1990s, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre to this day.

Bone Thugs-n-Harmony – “Tha Crossroads” (1996):

The song was released as a single from their second album, “E. 1999 Eternal”. It was produced by DJ U-Neek and features a sample from “Crossroad” by singer-songwriter Don McLean.

The song is a tribute to the group’s friend, mentor, and collaborator Eazy-E, who had recently died of AIDS.

The lyrics deal with themes of death, mourning, and spirituality, with each member of the group reflecting on their own mortality and the afterlife.

The chorus, sung by the group’s members in harmony, has become one of the most iconic and memorable hooks in hip hop history.

“Tha Crossroads” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.

The song’s emotional impact and powerful message about loss and grief struck a chord with audiences around the world, and it remains a beloved classic of the hip hop genre.

Public Enemy – “Fight The Power” (1990): A song that became an anthem for the black community and the civil rights movement with its powerful and political message.

“Fight The Power” released as a single from their album “Fear of a Black Planet”.

The song was written by Public Enemy members Chuck D and Hank Shocklee, and produced by Shocklee and his production team The Bomb Squad.

The song was written in response to what the group saw as the cultural and political marginalization of African Americans in the United States, and it quickly became an anthem of the Black Power movement.

The lyrics encourage listeners to resist oppression and fight for their rights, and the song’s powerful, urgent message is amplified by its driving beat and innovative production techniques, which include the use of samples from James Brown, Sly and the Family Stone, and other funk and soul legends.

“Fight the Power” was a commercial and critical success, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot Rap Singles chart and becoming one of the most influential and enduring protest songs in the history of hip hop.

The song’s message of resistance and empowerment has inspired generations of activists and artists, and it remains a powerful symbol of the struggle for social justice and equality.

DMX – “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” (1998): A song that introduced DMX and the Ruff Ryders to the world with their aggressive and hardcore rap style.

The song was produced by Swizz Beatz and became one of DMX’s most popular and recognizable tracks.

The song features a catchy beat and a repetitive hook, with DMX rapping aggressively about his affiliation with the Ruff Ryders hip hop collective and his prowess as a rapper.

The song was a commercial success, peaking at number 92 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and reaching the top 20 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart.

Lil’ Kim feat. Lil’ Cease – “Crush On You” (1996): A song that featured Lil’ Kim’s sexy and confident rap style and her colourful outfits in the music video.

“Crush on You” was released as the third single from Lil’ Kim’s debut album “Hard Core”.

The track was produced by Rashad Smith and samples the 1982 hit “Seven Minutes of Funk” by American funk band The Whole Darn Family.

The song’s lyrics are about Lil’ Kim’s love for a man, with Lil’ Cease also contributing a verse about his own romantic interests.

The music video features Lil’ Kim in different color-coordinated outfits for each verse, with a different color filter applied to each scene.

“Crush on You” was a commercial success, reaching number 23 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and peaking at number 4 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

The song’s success helped to establish Lil’ Kim as a prominent female rapper in the 1990s.

Beastie Boys – “Sabotage” (1994): A song that blended rap and rock elements and had a hilarious music video that parodied 70s cop shows.
It was the first single from their fourth studio album, “Ill Communication”.

The song features aggressive rapping over a hard rock sample from the song “Study in E minor” by the 1970s punk rock band, The Mohawks.

The music video, directed by Spike Jonze, pays homage to 1970s crime dramas, and features the Beastie Boys dressed up as police officers on a high-speed car chase.

The song was a commercial and critical success, and is considered one of the group’s signature tracks.

Missy Elliott feat. Nas, Eve & Q-Tip – “Hot Boyz” (1999): A song that popularised the term “hot boyz” and had a catchy chorus that asked “Who’s hotter than us?”.

“Hot boyz” was released as the lead single from her third studio album, “Da Real World”.

The song features a catchy beat and memorable chorus, with each featured artist delivering a standout verse. The lyrics touch on themes of female empowerment, success, and being confident in oneself.

The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.

Black Star feat. Common – “Respiration” (1998): A song that featured three of the most conscious and lyrical rap artists of the 90s and described the life in the city with poetic imagery.

The song was released on Black Star’s debut album “Mos Def & Talib Kweli Are Black Star”.

“Respiration” features a laid-back beat and introspective lyrics about life in Brooklyn, New York, where both Mos Def and Talib Kweli grew up.

Common’s verse focuses on similar themes, reflecting on life in Chicago.

The song is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential tracks in underground hip-hop history.

Busta Rhymes – “Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check” (1996): A song that showcased Busta Rhymes’ energetic and charismatic rap style and had a crazy music video with various effects.

The song is the lead single from his debut solo album, “The Coming,” and was produced by Rashad Smith and Busta Rhymes.

The song features Busta’s signature high-energy, fast-paced flow and playful wordplay, and the video features a vibrant, colorful aesthetic with various scenes of Busta performing in different outfits and settings.

“Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check” was a commercial success, peaking at #8 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of Busta Rhymes’ most popular and recognizable songs.

Lauryn Hill – “Doo Wop (That Thing)” (1998): A song that warned both men and women about the dangers of lust and deception and featured Lauryn Hill’s rapping and singing skills.

It was released as the lead single from her debut solo album, “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill”.

The song incorporates elements of doo-wop and hip hop, and features lyrics that address the need for young women to respect themselves and avoid the pitfalls of modern society.

The song was a commercial success, peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and winning two Grammy Awards in 1999.

Big Pun feat. Joe – “Still Not a Player” (1998): A song that was a remix of Big Pun’s “I’m Not a Player” and featured his impressive flow and wordplay over a smooth R&B beat.

It was released as the second single from his debut album “Capital Punishment”.

The song samples “A Little Bit of Love” by Brenda Russell and “The Breakdown” by Rufus Thomas.

It became a commercial success, reaching No. 24 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and No. 6 on the Hot Rap Tracks chart. It is considered one of Big Pun’s most popular songs and has been included in numerous “best of” lists.

N.W.A. – “Fuck Tha Police” (1990): A song that expressed the anger and frustration of the black community towards the police brutality and racism and sparked controversy and censorship.

Mobb Deep – “Shook Ones Pt. II” (1995): A song that depicted the harsh and violent reality of living in the Queensbridge projects. It was released as a single from their album “The Infamous”. The song has become one of the most iconic tracks in hip hop history and is considered a classic of the East Coast hip hop genre. Its haunting beat and lyrics, which focus on the harsh realities of street life and the need for survival in a violent environment, have made it a favorite of both fans and critics alike.

Salt-n-Pepa feat. En Vogue – “Whatta Man” (1993): A song that praised the qualities of a good man and featured two of the most successful female rap and R&B groups of the 90s. The song was a commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. It is known for its catchy chorus and upbeat, feel-good vibe.

Coolio feat. L.V. – “Gangsta’s Paradise” (1995): A song that features a sample from the 1976 song “Pastime Paradise” by Stevie Wonder and tells the story of a young man growing up in the inner city and struggling to escape the violence and poverty around him. The song’s poignant lyrics and haunting melody helped it become a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance.

It also became a huge hit and an Oscar-nominated soundtrack for the movie Dangerous Minds.

The Notorious B.I.G. feat. Puff Daddy & Mase – “Mo Money Mo Problems” (1997): A song that features a sample from the 1980 song “I’m Coming Out” by Diana Ross and is an anthem to the high life and excesses of fame and fortune. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat production helped it become a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries.

De La Soul feat. Redman – “Oooh.” (2000): A song that featured two of the most quirky and creative rap groups of the 90s and had a fun and catchy chorus. It features a sample from the 1973 song “Darkest Light” by The Lafayette Afro Rock Band and showcases De La Soul’s playful and witty lyrics, as well as Redman’s distinctive flow. The song’s chorus features a repetition of the phrase “Oooh”, with each artist taking turns adding their own ad-libs and variations to the line.

Warren G feat. Nate Dogg – “Regulate” (1994): A song that narrated a story of robbery and rescue in Long Beach and featured Warren G’s rap and Nate Dogg’s smooth vocals over a sample of Michael McDonald’s “I Keep Forgettin’.”The song’s laid-back groove and catchy chorus helped it become a major hit, reaching the top 10 of the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The Fugees – “Killing Me Softly With His Song” (1996): A song that was a cover of Roberta Flack’s classic song and featured Lauryn Hill’s stunning vocals and Wyclef Jean’s rap interlude. It became a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song is a soulful and emotive ballad that tells the story of a performer who is deeply moved by a song and its lyrics.

Eminem feat. Dr. Dre – “Guilty Conscience” (1999): A song that is about the story of a man who is tempted to commit various crimes, including robbing a liquor store and killing his wife and her lover. The lyrics are presented as a conversation between Eminem’s and Dr. Dre’s alter egos, with Eminem playing the role of the devil on the character’s shoulder, encouraging him to commit the crimes, and Dr. Dre playing the role of the angel, urging him to do the right thing.

The song’s chorus features a sample from the 1975 song “I Will Follow Him” by Little Peggy March, with the lyrics “Cause every time you hear the sound of my voice / You know it’s Dre and Eminem”, which has become a popular catchphrase. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 of the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, and has since become one of Eminem’s most famous and recognizable tracks.

Queen Latifah – “U.N.I.T.Y” (1993): A song that is about women’s empowerment and the importance of unity among women in the face of oppression and violence. The lyrics describe various forms of discrimination and violence against women, including street harassment and domestic abuse, and encourage women to stand up for themselves and each other.

The chorus features Queen Latifah singing “Who you callin’ a bitch?!”, which has become one of the most famous lines in hip hop history. The song won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance in 1995 and has since been recognized as an important feminist anthem.

DMX – “Slippin” (1998):A conscious hip-hop song that is about DMX’s struggles with addiction, crime, and personal demons, and features introspective lyrics that detail his difficult upbringing and the mistakes he has made throughout his life.

The song’s chorus features DMX singing “I’m slippin’, I’m fallin’, I can’t get up“, a reference to the famous catchphrase from the Life Alert commercial. The lyrics describe DMX’s struggles with addiction and the negative impact it has had on his life, including his relationships with his family and friends.

“Slippin” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top 30 of the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving praise for its honesty and vulnerability. The song has since become one of DMX’s most iconic and well-known tracks, with its introspective lyrics and emotional delivery resonating with fans and listeners.

Nas Ft Lauryn Hill – “If I Ruled The World (Imagine That)”: A song that is about Nas’ vision for a better world, where he would have power and authority to make positive changes.

In the song, Nas raps about his desire to use his influence to uplift and empower people, particularly those in impoverished communities.

He also touches on various issues such as poverty, crime, and racism, and how he would address them if he had the opportunity to rule the world. The chorus, which features Lauryn Hill’s vocals, emphasizes the importance of unity and love in achieving this vision.

Naughty By Nature – “O.P.P” (1991): A song about the concept of “Other People’s Property” and is essentially about infidelity and cheating.

The lyrics describe how the rapper, Treach, is involved with a woman who has a boyfriend or husband, and how he is able to get her to cheat on her partner with him. The chorus of the song features the line “You down with O.P.P? Yeah, you know me“, which has become a famous catchphrase and was widely used in popular culture at the time.

Luniz – “I Got 5 On It” (1995): A song that is known for its laid-back, hypnotic beat and catchy chorus, which features the repeated refrain “I got 5 on it“, a slang phrase meaning to contribute $5 to a shared purchase of drugs, particularly marijuana.

The lyrics of the song describe the duo’s love for smoking weed and their willingness to share it with others, as long as everyone contributes their fair share. The song became a hit in the United States, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of the most popular hip hop songs of the mid-1990s.

“I Got 5 on It” has since become a cult classic and is often considered one of the best hip hop songs of all time. Its memorable beat and catchy hook have been sampled and remixed by numerous artists in various genres, and the song has been used in films, television shows, and video games.

Jay Z – “Hard Knock Life” (1998): A song that is based on a sample from the musical “Annie”, specifically the song “It’s the Hard Knock Life”, and features a catchy chorus that reimagines the lyrics in a hip hop context.

The song’s lyrics detail Jay-Z’s rise to fame and his struggles growing up in poverty in Brooklyn, New York. The chorus features a sample of the children’s chorus from the original “Annie” song, with the lyrics “It’s the hard knock life for us”, which Jay-Z then raps over, adding his own verses about the difficulties he faced growing up and trying to make it in the music industry.

“Hard Knock Life” became one of Jay-Z’s most successful and recognizable songs, reaching the top 20 of the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance. The song has since become a hip hop classic, with its iconic sample and memorable chorus being frequently referenced and imitated in popular culture.

The 90s was the golden age of hip hop. It was a decade that gave us some of the best rap songs, artists, and lyrics of all time. It was also a decade that witnessed the evolution and diversification of rap music as it explored different genres, themes, and perspectives. In this article, we answered some of the most frequently asked questions on the topic of 90s rap songs, such as:

• What was the most successful rap song in the 90s?
• Who are the most influential rap artists of the 90s?
• What are some of the most memorable rap lyrics of the 90s?

We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about 90s rap music. If you want to enjoy or explore more of 90s rap music we have some suggestions for you:

• Buy 90s rap albums: You can find some of the best 90s rap albums on Amazon, iTunes, or other online platforms. You can also visit your local record store or thrift shop and look for some vinyl or CD copies.
• Download 90s rap songs: You can download some of the best 90s rap songs on Spotify, Apple Music, or other streaming services. You can also create your own playlists or listen to ones that have been curated by genre, mood, or artist.
• Stream 90s rap playlists: You can stream some of the best 90s rap playlists on YouTube, Pandora, or other online platforms. You can also watch some of the best 90s rap music videos and documentaries on these platforms.
• Book 90s rap concerts: You can book some of the best 90s rap concerts on Ticketmaster, StubHub, or other online platforms. You can also check out your local venues or festivals to see if any of your favourite 90s rap artists are performing live.

Whatever you choose to do, we hope you have fun and appreciate the golden age of hip-hop. And don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family who love 90s rap music as much as you do. Peace out!