We break down the best new rap songs of the year, highlighting the artists who are making waves and the tracks that are sure to become anthems.
Hip-hop and rap music have continued to dominate the music industry, with new talent emerging and established artists pushing the boundaries of the genre. From catchy hooks to hard-hitting verses, there’s no shortage of tracks to add to your playlist.
Best New Rap Songs To Add To Your Playlist
1. Drake – “Evil Ways” feat. J. Cole
In a surprising collaboration, Drake and J. Cole joined forces once again for their fourth-ever project, “Evil Ways,” which dropped shortly after the announcement of the second leg of the It’s All A Blur Tour. Their previous collaborations include “In The Morning” (November 2010), “Jodeci Freestyle” (June 2013), and the highly-anticipated “First Person Shooter” (October 2023), with the music video released just days before. The song draws inspiration from The Family Circle’s 1973 self-titled LP, particularly the track “Change.”
2. 2 Chainz, Lil Wayne – Long Story Short
‘Long Story Short‘ marks the sophomore single from the dynamic duo of 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne, as they join forces once again for their second collaborative album, titled ‘Welcome 2 Collegrove.’ This album serves as a follow-up to their initial joint venture, ‘COLLEGROVE,’ which made its debut back in 2016.
With the musical stylings of Project Pat bookending the track and the skilled production prowess of Juicy J, this song pays homage to the deep southern roots of 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne. Both artists effortlessly deliver their signature lyrical finesse over Juicy J’s renowned trap-infused beats.
3. Flyana Boss – You Wish
Flyana Boss, the dynamic American hip hop duo from sunny Los Angeles, made waves by signing with Atlantic Records in 2021. Their infectious hit “You Wish” took TikTok by storm, garnering millions of views. With a style reminiscent of the iconic Diana Ross, they charmed audiences with braids bouncing through Santa Monica’s streets. The song, streamed over 27 million times on Spotify, earned shout-outs from Timbaland, Lupita Nyong’o, and Keke Palmer. Sharing the stage with Megan Thee Stallion at Essence Festival cemented their rise. Flyana Boss, a musical and cultural phenomenon, continues to reshape the hip hop scene with their undeniable charisma.
4. Drake – “First Person Shooter” ft. J. Cole
In the track “First Person Shooter,” Drake reunites with J. Cole, discussing their rap industry status. Drake mentions his successful lifestyle, nearing Michael Jackson’s success with his single “Slime You Out.” Cole addresses rivals using his name for attention and his rap dominance. The collaboration was highly anticipated, hinted at in previous projects. During Drake’s Montreal tour stop in July 2023, he brought out Cole as a surprise guest, suggesting their upcoming collaboration. J. Cole’s involvement was confirmed on Drake’s “Table for One” show on October 5, 2023, just before Cole’s album release, “For All The Dogs.”
5. “Tomorrow 2” – GloRilla & Cardi B
“Tomorrow 2” is a collaborative song by Glorilla and Cardi B. The song’s lyrics depict the two artists as confident and successful, with references to their wealth, fame, and ability to enjoy the finer things in life. The verses talk about their luxurious cars, designer clothes, and expensive jewelry, with Cardi B emphasizing her ability to “make money moves.”
The chorus repeats the line, “Money on my mind, I gotta get it,” which reinforces their determination to succeed and enjoy the fruits of their labor. The beat of the song is characterized by a catchy melody and a fast-paced tempo, which complements the song’s upbeat and celebratory tone. Overall, “Tomorrow 2” is a song that celebrates the success and confidence of Glorilla and Cardi B, and their ability to enjoy the luxuries that come with their success.
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6. “Vegas” – Doja Cat
“Vegas” is a song by Doja Cat that describes a wild night out in Las Vegas. The song’s lyrics talk about the excitement and energy of the city, with references to the bright lights, casinos, and parties.
Doja Cat sings about her own adventures in Vegas, including gambling, drinking, and dancing. The chorus of the song emphasizes the party atmosphere with the line, “All these lights and all these hoes, all this money on the floor.” The beat of the song is characterized by a bouncy, upbeat tempo and a catchy melody, which complements the song’s celebratory tone. Overall, “Vegas” is a song that celebrates the excitement and energy of Las Vegas, and the wild adventures that can be had in the city.
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7. “Spin Bout U” – Drake & 21 Savage
The song “Mr. Right Now” by 21 Savage and Drake is a rap song about their desire for a woman who they are attracted to. The song is divided into two verses, with 21 Savage rapping about his own feelings for the woman, and Drake rapping about his desire to protect and respect her.
The chorus is repeated throughout the song and emphasizes how the woman makes them feel and how they are willing to do anything for her. The beat of the song is characterized by a slow and heavy bass, which complements the confident and boastful tone of the lyrics. Overall, the song celebrates the attraction and desire between men and women and how they can come together and form a strong bond.
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8. Tee Grizzley & Skilla Baby – Gorgeous Remix (feat. City Girls)
Tee Grizzley and the up-and-coming hip-hop sensation Skilla Baby have just dropped the official remix of their sizzling hit “Gorgeous” and they’ve brought City Girls on board for this revamped edition. Take a listen to the track down below.
This release comes hot on the heels of the explosive success of the original “Gorgeous.” With an impressive eight million streams and counting, the song has truly taken the world by storm, racking up an additional two million global streams in just this week alone. “Gorgeous” has indisputably been the viral sensation and the anthem of the summer, with many artists putting their own unique spin on it. Now, the official remix featuring City Girls offers a fresh perspective from the female point of view.
9. “In Ha Mood” – Ice Spice
“In Ha Mood” by Ice Spice is a high-energy hip-hop song that celebrates the artist’s confidence, success, and beauty. The lyrics focus on Ice Spice’s self-assured attitude and her ability to attract attention and money.
The chorus repeats the phrase “Like, damn, she in her mood,” which emphasizes her power and presence. The verses describe her experiences at parties, where she attracts attention from men and paparazzi, and her disdain for fake friends and boring people. The beat of the song is characterized by a heavy bass and fast-paced tempo, which complements Ice Spice’s confident and boastful lyrics.
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10. “Forever” – Lil Baby Featuring Fridayy
The song “Forever” by Lil Baby featuring Fridayy is about a complicated relationship. Lil Baby expresses his strong desire to see his partner again, even though their relationship is toxic and they have been separated for three months.
He admits that he gets jealous when he sees her pictures and that she has been acting differently since her ex came back into the picture. Despite their problems, Lil Baby suggests that they should keep going and let things flow. He also mentions buying her expensive bags and keeping a low profile until she comes back to him. The chorus emphasizes Lil Baby’s desire to be with his partner one more time, even though he might lose everything.
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11. Famous Sally & YB – Wassup GWay
Topping the TikTok Billboard Top 50 chart is “Wassup Gwayy” by FamousSally and YB, making its debut on the September 23rd ranking. This weekly chart, launched just a week ago, ranks the most popular TikTok songs in the United States based on user creations, video views, and engagement during September 11th to 17th. Notably, TikTok activity doesn’t typically factor into Billboard charts, except for this unique ranking. Released in June, “Wassup Gwayy” gained TikTok fame due to users creatively incorporating its lyrics, “In the cut with my twin, we be vibin’,” in videos featuring twins, friends, and even pets dancing along.
12. Doja Cat – Paint The Town Red
The chart-topping sensation Doja Cat unveiled her latest musical masterpiece with the world. Titled “PAINT THE TOWN RED,” this brand-new single, accompanied by a mesmerizing music video. The visionary behind the camera is none other than NINA MCNEELY, known for her work with artists like Miguel and Fergie, who co-directed the video alongside Doja Cat herself. Filmed against the backdrop of the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California, this video is a visual masterpiece. It revolves around three distinct paintings, all meticulously crafted by Doja Cat herself. Each scene in the video is a captivating recreation of these stunning artworks, blending music and visual artistry into an unforgettable experience.
13. Stunna Girl – Like Dat Remix feat. JT
It’s an open secret that the City Girls are among the most unabashed female rappers on today’s music scene. Their unwavering energy and enthusiasm permeate practically every track in their extensive repertoire. Their lyrical prowess revolves around themes of wealth, allure, and unbridled revelry, a formula that has catapulted them to immense fame and popularity. The dynamic duo of JT and Yung Miami continues to serve as a profound influence for many emerging female artists, and their momentum shows no sign of waning anytime soon.
Yet, in a surprising twist, JT finds herself apart from her longtime comrade and collaborator, Yung Miami, in this fresh remix of “Like Dat” by Stunna Girl. In fact, both artists have embarked on individual journeys, with their own solo projects and separate feature credits. For instance, JT made a notable appearance on Summer Walker’s “Ex For A Reason.” And now, JT returns with yet another solo feature credit on this second remix.
14. Kanye West & Ty Dolla $ign – Vultures
“Vultures” made its debut on November 17, premiering on Chicago radio station Power 92, marking West’s first official release since his collaboration with Cardi B and Lil Durk on “Hot Shit” in July 2022. In a surprise appearance at a Dubai nightclub alongside Lil Durk and Ty Dolla Sign, Kanye West delivered a live rendition of their latest track, “Vultures.” The impromptu performance unfolded during Lil Durk’s show at Blu Dubai nightclub, with snippets of the song making their way onto social media through the club’s Instagram Stories. West’s dynamic delivery included the song’s provocative lyrics, such as the line, “How am I antisemitic? I just had an encounter with a Jewish woman.”
15. “Painting Pictures” – Superstar Pride
The song “Painting Pictures” by Superstar Pride is a reflection on the artist’s life and experiences. The lyrics touch on themes of violence, survival, and the struggle to succeed without any help.
The artist pays tribute to his mother and father for teaching him important life lessons, and sheds tears over the pain he has seen. The chorus emphasizes the importance of self-reliance, as the artist states that no one offered him any handouts when he had nothing. The song features a laid-back beat and simple, direct lyrics that convey a sense of toughness and resilience.
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16. Jack Harlow – Lovin On Me
“Lovin On Me” by Jack Harlow is a playful and confident song that explores the themes of self-assuredness and carefree romantic relationships. The lyrics express a desire to avoid traditional relationship constraints and embrace affection and passion without commitment. The chorus emphasizes the singer’s preference for uncomplicated relationships and enjoys the attention of an older woman in Detroit. In the first verse, Jack Harlow presents himself confidently and suggests his influence on his partner. Throughout the song, there’s an appreciation for passionate moments while celebrating the joy of living in the present and enjoying love without overthinking it. Overall, “Lovin On Me” is a fun and carefree track that embodies the spirit of youthful, casual romance.
17. “Watch This (ARIZONATERS Pluggnb Remix)” – Lil Uzi Vert
“Watch This (ARIZONATERS Pluggnb Remix)” by Lil Uzi Vert is a hip-hop song that features Uzi bragging about his wealth and ability to make people watch him. He boasts about his expensive car and his ability to do what people only dream of.
He also claims that he can make the whole crowd mosh pit and make their girlfriends stop and watch him. The song also talks about Uzi staying true to himself and not changing for anyone. The chorus repeats the phrase “Benjamins sittin’ in my left, right pocket, watch this” and talks about how Uzi can make people stop and watch him. The final verse talks about Uzi’s ability to throw money and his disregard for the people who try to bring him down.
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18. Drake – ‘Red Button’
In Drake’s song “Red Button,” featured on the album “For All The Dogs Scary Hour Edition,” the rapper delves into a darker and confrontational mindset, setting the tone for the track and the album. The title “Red Button” carries a dual meaning, alluding to both a detonation device and the recording equipment’s illuminated button. Drake’s lyrics showcase his dedication to his craft, his impact on the music industry, and his readiness to address conflicts head-on. He gives a nod to Taylor Swift’s influence and highlights his lyrical prowess with metaphors and wordplay. Overall, “Red Button” is a bold and intense track that demonstrates Drake’s willingness to confront controversies and make a mark in the music world.
19. “Breakfast” – Kevin Gates
“Breakfast” by Kevin Gates is a sexually explicit song in which the rapper expresses his desire for a woman. The chorus revolves around his promise to give her a “special” early breakfast and have sex with her until she’s snoring. In the verses, he talks about his life as a “real general” and a “breadwinner,” and how he is trying to leave his old ways behind. The song ends with Gates declaring that he has found love.
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20. “Out The Way” – Yeat
“Out The Way” by Yeat is a song about the rapper’s success and wealth. In the chorus, Yeat boasts about buying a Lamborghini Urus and having lots of money.
He talks about his daily routines of causing mayhem and having sex with attractive women. In the verse, he describes his ability to evade law enforcement and the lavish lifestyle he leads with his wealth, including expensive cars and jewelry. Yeat also warns against those who try to get involved with his gang and claims his money will only continue to grow while others’ money will decrease.
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21. “Pussy & Millions” – Drake & 21 Savage Featuring Travis Scott
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nj1t3tfXwBM
The song “Pussy & Millions” by Drake, 21 Savage, and Travis Scott is about their focus on money, women, and success. They rap about their pursuit of riches and their willingness to face the problems that come with it.
The chorus talks about their desire for sex and wealth, while the verses mention their experiences with women, the difficulties of relationships, and the grind to make money. Travis Scott raps about his accomplishments in the music industry and his wealth, while Drake and 21 Savage talk about their experiences with women and their focus on the hustle. The song features trap beats and an overall aggressive tone, which is typical in this genre of music.
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22. “Niagara Falls (Foot Or 2)” – Metro Boomin, Travis Scott & 21 Savage
“Niagara Falls (Foot Or 2)” is a song by Metro Boomin, Travis Scott, and 21 Savage. The chorus talks about being surrounded by people and needing extra space while they surround the person. The verses talk about experiences with women and luxury items like a Birkin bag and a Maybach. The outro is a spoken word by Morgan Freeman that reflects on the nature of villains and heroes.
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23. “Jumbotron Shit Poppin” – Drake
The song “Jumbotron Shit Poppin” by Drake features a chorus and a verse with explicit language and references to drugs and sexual activity. The chorus mentions riding around with an F&N gun and not backing and forth over no net. The verse talks about the artist’s confidence and sexual encounters with various women, as well as drug use and a willingness to fight those who pose a threat. The song has a trap-influenced beat and features production from Oogie Mane.
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24. Young Thug – Oh U Went
“Oh U Went” by Young Thug and Drake is a collaboration celebrating success, wealth, and confidence. The song highlights their achievements, luxurious lifestyles, and prowess with women. Young Thug’s lyrics suggest he holds authority and power within the music industry, possibly referencing his personal legal issues. Drake reinforces his success, positioning himself as the “6 God” and emphasizing his abundance of wealth and romantic encounters. The song also acknowledges non-traditional avenues for financial success, like OnlyFans. Overall, it’s a track that showcases their opulence and confidence while acknowledging their longevity in the music industry.
25. Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice – ‘Barbie World’
“Barbie World” by Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice is an empowering and playful song that draws inspiration from the iconic Barbie doll. The lyrics convey confidence, femininity, and a desire for a glamorous lifestyle. The song emphasizes self-assuredness, attractiveness, and a bold attitude, comparing the artists to Barbies who are exceptional and admirable. Nicki Minaj’s verse highlights her success and influence, while Ice Spice asserts her power and desire for financial success. The song concludes with a reference to Aqua’s “Barbie Girl,” reinforcing the connection to the Barbie concept and the celebration of imagination and creativity.
26. Doja Cat – Attention
Doja Cat’s song “Attention” is a self-assured anthem in which she asserts her independence and desire for recognition. She doesn’t necessarily seek love but craves attention and validation. The lyrics reflect her rise to fame, resilience against criticism, and empowerment through vulnerability. Despite challenges, she maintains her confidence and positivity, concluding with the word “cute.”
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