Top 50 Hip Hop Songs of 2023

2023 Hip Hop Hits: The Soundtrack of a Generation: From Bangers to Bops: Top 50 Hip Hop Songs in 2023

The hip hop genre continues to push the boundaries of creativity, innovation, and cultural impact. From chart-topping bangers to thought-provoking lyricism, hip-hop artists are leaving a significant mark on the music industry and shaping the sound of a generation. Here are the top 50 hip-hop songs that have dominated the airwaves and playlists in 2023:

1. Lil Durk – All my life ft J.cole

“All My Life” by Lil Durk featuring J. Cole is a captivating mid-tempo hip hop track released on May 26, 2023. The song celebrates perseverance, resilience, and hope, with memorable performances from both artists. Its catchy melody, soulful vocals, and thought-provoking lyrics have earned it critical acclaim and commercial success. “All My Life” is a powerful and inspiring addition to any music collection.

2. Ice Spice & Nicki Minaj – Princess Diana

“Princess Diana” by Ice Spice featuring Nicki Minaj is a captivating hip hop track released on April 14, 2023. The song celebrates themes of female empowerment, wealth, and fame with catchy melodies and confident delivery from both artists. Critics and fans alike praise the song’s empowering lyrics and glamorous appeal. “Princess Diana” has earned commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Nigerian Apple Music chart. This powerful and inspiring anthem is sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners.

3. Lil Mabu – Mathematical Disrespect

“Mathematical Disrespect” is a self-released song by Lil Mabu, produced by Hemz. Lil Mabu playfully admits to exaggerating his lifestyle and injects humor into the song. The track gained popularity on TikTok, and he proudly claims authorship of the lyrics. He refers to other artists as “fleas” and confidently asserts his dominance in the rap industry using the term “pi.” Despite his claims to fame, Lil Mabu emphasizes that his main goal is to maintain peace and avoid conflicts with fellow rappers.

4. Kalii – Area Codes

“Area Codes” is a song by rapper Kali, released on March 17, 2023, and produced by Tate Kobang and YG! Beats. The track samples Ludacris’ 2001 song of the same name featuring Nate Dogg. It gained popularity on TikTok and became Kali’s first charting song, reaching number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song is part of the reissue of Kali’s second mixtape, Toxic Chocolate, titled the “Area Codes Edition,” released on June 29, 2023.

Lyrically, Kali boasts about her numerous relationships with men and their willingness to give her money due to her attractiveness. She shares details about her partners and relationships, including a white boy who takes her shopping. In the chorus, she references having “hoes in different area codes,” while also warning some women that their partners might be involved with her.

5. Paul Damixie – Secrets

The song’s lyrics express the artist’s desire for love and connection. Despite knowing many secrets, there is a longing to know the other person better. The lyrics emphasize the transformative power of love, taking the artist to new heights and igniting a passionate fire within. The overall tone is mysterious and romantic, reflecting the artist’s personal style and musical preferences, which range from minimalistic to melodic instrument lines.

6. YoungBoy Never Broke Again – Bitch Lets Do it

The song “Bitch Let’s Do It” by YoungBoy Never Broke Again is the opening track from his mixtape Richest Opp (2023). The song features lively rapping over an aggressive beat with dancing piano keys. The lyrics include subliminal shots at Lil Durk and DJ Akademiks, as well as references to drug and firearm dependency and connection to crimes. The song received positive reviews from critics, with praise for its energetic style and slick songwriting.

7. GloRilla – Tomorrow 2 ft. Cardi B

“Tomorrow 2” is a song by American rapper GloRilla released on July 15, 2022. The song features piano chords and bass in the production and showcases GloRilla rapping in an aggressive manner. The lyrics dismiss her detractors and highlight her good qualities, while expressing her status and standards with an optimistic tone. The song’s official remix, “Tomorrow 2“, with Cardi B, propelled it to number 9 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The music video, released alongside the single, depicts GloRilla and her friends partying and twerking at an airport tarmac, inside a private jet, and on a Bentley, with stacks of cash throughout.

8. Lil Baby – California Breeze

“California Breeze” by Lil Baby is a moody and melodic song that samples “Gwen” by Coco O. It highlights Lil Baby’s success and luxurious lifestyle, as well as his ability to mistrust some while protecting others. The song received positive reviews, and its music video shows Lil Baby enjoying a cruise on a yacht on a sunny day. It became the highest-charting song on his album, peaking at number four on the Billboard Hot 100.

9. Rod Wave – Street Runner

“Street Runner” by Rod Wave is a personal and introspective song released as the lead single from his album “SoulFly.” The song reflects on the sacrifices he made to pursue his career while dealing with the success and chaos that comes with it. It also touches on the theme of missing someone despite achieving his dreams. The song received positive reviews for its introspective nature. Alongside the single, Rod Wave also launched a video game of the same name to bring his story to life beyond the music. The music video shows Rod Wave’s life on tour, performing concerts, and missing a special person in his life. “Street Runner” peaked at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100.

10. Metro Boomin & Future – Superhero

“Superhero (Heroes & Villains)” is a trap song by Metro Boomin, featuring Future and Chris Brown. It serves as the title track from Metro Boomin’s album “Heroes & Villains.” The song features pummeling 808s and muted horns in the production, with Future’s customary chant-like flow and Chris Brown’s distorted melodies. The song received positive reviews from critics for its bone-chilling and anthemic qualities. It also contains a sample of Jay-Z’s line about living long enough to see yourself become a villain. The music video, released alongside the album, portrays Metro Boomin and Future involved in a tense diamond theft, along with surreal scenes. Chris Brown’s verse does not appear in the video. “Superhero (Heroes & Villains)” reached number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100.

11. YoungBoy Never Broke Again – Big Truck

“Big Truck” serves as the opening track on YoungBoy Never Broke Again’s sixth studio album, Don’t Try This at Home, and it was launched on April 21, 2023, by the American rapper.” The song has a strong and assertive vibe, blending elements of Louisiana Rap and modern Hip Hop. It delivers an unrestrained message about living true to one’s words and disliking those who are all talk and no action.

12. Pop Smoke – For the Night ft Lil Baby, DaBaby

“For the Night” is a track by Pop Smoke, an American rapper, featuring Lil Baby and DaBaby, both fellow American rappers. The song is part of Pop Smoke’s posthumous debut studio album, “Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon,” released in 2020, and it’s also featured in the EP of the same name. The artists themselves, along with producers CashMoneyAP, Palaze, and Mike Dean, contributed to its creation, with additional production credits going to Wylo and Jess Jackson. The single was released on October 3, 2020, by Victor Victor Worldwide and Republic Records, followed by the EP shortly after.”

13. Drake – Laugh now cry later

“Laugh Now Cry Later” is a single by Drake, a Canadian rapper, which features American rapper Lil Durk. The song was released on August 14, 2020, through Republic Records and OVO Sound. Both artists collaborated with producers Cardo, Rogét Chahayed, G. Ry, and Yung Exclusive to create the track. Initially, it was meant to be the lead single for Drake’s sixth studio album, “Certified Lover Boy,” released in 2021.

14. Lola Brooke ft Billy B – Don’t Play with it

“Don’t Play with It” is a song performed by Lola Brooke, an American rapper, with a feature from Billy B, another American rapper. The track was released in May 2021 and was produced by Dizzy Banko. Although it initially went unnoticed, it gained popularity in 2022 thanks to TikTok and became a major success for both artists.

15. Kodak Black – Super Gremlin

“Super Gremlin” is a track by Kodak Black, an American rapper, which came out on October 30, 2021, as part of the Sniper Gang label compilation “Sniper Gang Presents Syko Bob & Snapkatt: Nightmare Babies,” a Halloween-themed project. It made its mark on US urban contemporary radio on January 11, 2022, and reached a high position at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song is also featured on Kodak’s fourth studio album, “Back for Everything.”

16. Nardo Wick – Who want Smoke? Ft Lil Durk, 21 Savage & G Herbo

“Who Want Smoke?” is a track by Nardo Wick, an American rapper, and it came out as a single on January 22, 2021, under Flawless Entertainment and RCA Records. Later, a remix with G Herbo, Lil Durk, and 21 Savage was released on October 8, 2021. The original song earned platinum certification from the RIAA in November 2021. Additionally, it’s featured on Nardo Wick’s debut album, titled “Who Is Nardo Wick?,” which was released on December 3, 2021.

17. Future – Wait For U ft Drake, Tems

“Wait for U” is a track by Future, an American rapper, in collaboration with Canadian rapper and singer Drake, and Nigerian singer Tems. This song was released on May 3, 2022, as the second single from Future’s ninth studio album, titled “I Never Liked You,” and was sent to rhythmic contemporary radio stations.”

18. Drake, 21 Savage – Spin Bout U

“Spin Bout U” is a track featured in the joint studio album “Her Loss” (2022) by the Canadian rapper Drake and Atlanta-based rapper 21 Savage. Banbwoi and 40 were the producers, and the song includes samples from “Give Me Your Lovin” by Oobie. It achieved considerable success, reaching the fifth position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

19. Metro Boomin, Don Toliver, Future – Too many nights

“Too Many Nights” is a track from Metro Boomin’s second studio album Heroes & Villains (2022), where he collaborated with American rapper Future and fellow rapper Don Toliver. The song was co-written by the artists themselves, along with Honorable C.N.O.T.E. and Allen Ritter, who also co-produced it with Metro.

20. Lil Baby – In a minute

“In a Minute” is a track by Lil Baby, an American rapper, which came out as a single on April 8, 2022, alongside another single titled “Right On“. The song was produced by Kaigoinkrazy and co-produced by Haze, and it features a sample from English singer Ellie Goulding’s song “Don’t Say a Word” from her album “Halcyon” released in 2012. Both songs were released under Quality Control Music and Motown.

21. Lil Yatchy – Strike

“Strike (Holster)” is a track performed by Lil Yachty, the American rapper. It was released on April 7, 2023, under Quality Control Music and Motown labels. The song’s production was handled by Teddy Walton and Aaron Bow.

22. Finesse2Tymes – Backend

“Finesse2tymes, an American rapper hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, is currently signed to Atlantic Records. His song ‘Backend‘ stands out as one of his most significant and uplifting tracks, showcasing his powerful voice and inspirational lyrics. Notably, he made his major label debut with the mixtape ’90 Days,’ which hit the shelves on December 2, 2022.”

23. Pooh Shiesty – Black in blood ft Lil Durk

“Back in Blood” is a track by Pooh Shiesty, an American rapper, featuring Lil Durk, another American rapper. It was released on November 6, 2020, as the lead single from Pooh Shiesty’s debut mixtape, “Shiesty Season,” which came out in 2021. The song was co-written by both artists and produced by YC. Interestingly, this song marked their first collaboration, and they later teamed up again in 2021 for Lil Durk’s track “Should’ve Ducked” on the deluxe edition of his sixth studio album, “The Voice.”

24. Kevin Gates – Super General

“Super General” likely served as the necessary contextual groundwork leading up to Khaza’s release. While the album mainly aimed to generate attention-grabbing headlines, Gates does admit to some mistakes he faced in the music industry, like his fallout with Moneybagg Yo and the release of “I’m Him.” The record also makes mentions of various figures, including Nipsey Hussle, Kodak Black, Yung Mazi, his children, Jay-Z, Kenneth Petty, Boo Dirty, among others.

25. 21 Savage & Metro Boomin – Glock in my Lap

“Glock in My Lap” is a track featured in the album Savage Mode II (2020), a collaboration between Atlanta-based rapper 21 Savage and American record producer Metro Boomin. The song was produced by Metro Boomin, Southside, and Honorable C.N.O.T.E.

26. Metro Boomin, Travis Scott, Young Thug – Trance

“Trance” is a track featured on Metro Boomin’s second studio album, Heroes & Villains (2022), which he created in collaboration with American rappers Travis Scott and Young Thug. The song was jointly produced by Metro Boomin and Allen Ritter.

27. Quavo & Takeoff – Hotel Lobby

“Hotel Lobby (Unc & Phew)” is a track performed by Quavo and Takeoff, members of the hip-hop group Migos, under the moniker Unc & Phew. The song, produced by Murda Beatz, Keanu Beats, and Fabio Aguilar, debuted on May 20, 2022, marking their first release as a duo. It serves as the lead single from their joint album, titled “Only Built for Infinity Links.”

28. Cardi B – Wap ft megan thee stallion

“WAP” is a track by Cardi B, an American rapper, with guest vocals from Megan Thee Stallion, also an American rapper. It was released on August 7, 2020, as the lead single from Cardi B’s second studio album under Atlantic Records. The song falls under the hip-hop genre, featuring heavy bass, drum beats, and a sample from Frank Ski’s Baltimore club single “Whores in This House” (1993). In the lyrics, Cardi B and Megan express their desire to be sexually satisfied by men, referencing various sexual practices.

29. DJ Khaled – Every Chance I get ft Lil Baby, Lil Durk

“Every Chance I Get” is a track by DJ Khaled, an American record producer, which includes collaborations with Lil Baby and Lil Durk, both American rappers. It was released as the third single from DJ Khaled’s twelfth studio album, “Khaled Khaled,” on May 11, 2021. Critics generally responded positively to the song, considering it one of the standout tracks on the album. In terms of lyrics, the rappers express their pride and achievements.

30. Luh Tyler – Law & Order

Luh Tyler, whose real name is Tyler Meeks, was born on February 20, 2006, and he is an American rapper hailing from Tallahassee, Florida. He is currently under contract with Atlantic Records. His first studio album, “My Vision,” achieved significant success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Top Heatseekers chart. “Law and Order” is a motivational track featured in his debut album.

31. Lil Tjay – Calling My Phone ft 6lack

“Calling My Phone” is a track featured on Lil Tjay’s second studio album “Destined 2 Win” (2021), a collaboration with American singer 6lack. The song was officially released on February 10, 2021, under the labels Columbia and Sony.

32. Lil Mabu – Trip to the Hood

Lil Mabu is an American Rapper who gained huge fame for his singles such as “Trip To The Hood”, “On The Radar Freestyle”, “Demon Time” and “Move It”. He released his first album, titled DOUBLE M’S, in 2022. Apart from music, he has gained an immense fan following across social media like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. He has more than 2.8 million followers on TikTok and more than 655,000 Subscribers on YouTube Channel.

33. Sam Smith – Stay with me

“Stay with Me” is a heartfelt ballad by Sam Smith, featured in their debut studio album “In the Lonely Hour” (2014). The song, released in the United States on April 14, 2014, and in the United Kingdom on May 18, 2014, draws inspiration from gospel music and narrates the plea of the protagonist to their one-night stand not to leave. The track was co-written by Sam Smith, James Napier, and William Phillips, and later acknowledged Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne as co-writers due to its notable melodic similarity to Petty’s single “I Won’t Back Down”.

34. Drake and 21 savage – Rich Flex

“Rich Flex” is a collaborative song by Drake and 21 Savage, released on November 4, 2022, as the opening track from their joint album, “Her Loss.” The song creatively incorporates elements from various tracks, including Megan Thee Stallion’s “Savage,” T.I.’s “24’s,” and 21 Savage’s “Red Opps,” along with samples from Sugar’s “I Want You, Girl” and Charles Bernstein’s “Nora’s Transformation.” It achieved significant success, spending three weeks at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, tying with “My Life” as 21 Savage’s highest-charting song. Unfortunately, it was unable to secure the top spot due to Taylor Swift’s “Anti-Hero.” However, “Rich Flex” did reach number one on the Canadian Hot 100 chart, marking Drake’s eleventh number one single in Canada.

35. MoneyBagg Yo ft GloRilla – On what U on

‘On Wat U On‘ is a track performed by Moneybagg Yo and GloRilla, both American rappers. It was released on January 12, 2023, along with a music video. This song serves as the second single from Moneybagg Yo’s mixtape titled ‘Hard to Love,’ which came out in 2023. The production of the song was handled by YC, Skywalker OG, and DrumGod.”

36. Morray – quicksand

“Quicksand” marks the first-ever single by Morray, an American rapper. Its music video first aired in March 2020, and it was later re-released on October 30, 2020, through Pick Six Records and Interscope Records. The song serves as the main track from Morray’s inaugural mixtape, “Street Sermons,” which was released in 2021. In February 2021, “Quicksand” entered the Billboard Hot 100 at number 100, eventually reaching its peak position at number 65.

37. Saweetie – Best Friend ft Doja Cat

“Best Friend” is a track by Saweetie, an American rapper, featuring Doja Cat, another American rapper and singer. It was released on January 7, 2021, as the third single from Saweetie’s debut studio album, Pretty Bitch Music. The song was co-written by the two artists, Asia Smith, Kaine, Alyssa Lourdiz Cantu, and Theron Thomas, with production credits to Dr. Luke and Rocco Did It Again!.

38. SleazyWorld Go – Sleazy Flow

“Sleazy Flow” marks the debut track of SleazyWorld Go, an American rapper, which was launched on October 15, 2021. The song gained popularity towards the end of 2021 and is recognized as the song that propelled his career. As a result of its success, an official remix with American rapper Lil Baby was released on May 26, 2022.

39. Lil Durk – Hanging With Wolves

“Lil Durk’s track, ‘Hanging with Wolves,’ emerged on December 9, 2022, as the second single from his joint compilation album, Loyal Bros 2 (2022), with Only the Family. The song was crafted by producer Chopsquad DJ.”
Youtube link: https://youtu.be/CnT6NRiTz9M

40. Ice Spice – In Ha Mood

“Ice Spice’s track titled ‘In Ha Mood‘ was dropped on January 6, 2023, by 10K Projects and Capitol Records.”

41. Drake – Jimmy Cooks ft 21 Savage

“Jimmy Cooks” is a track performed by Drake, the Canadian-American rapper, and features 21 Savage, the Atlanta-based rapper. It was included in Drake’s seventh studio album titled “Honestly, Nevermind” and was released on June 17, 2022. Among the album’s songs, “Jimmy Cooks” stands out, according to HotNewHipHop, as it is the only one to have a guest appearance.

42. CJ – Whoopty

“Whoopty” marks the first release from American rapper CJ. Initially self-released on July 30, 2020, the song caught the attention of Warner Records after he signed with them, leading to a re-release. This track gained significant popularity, reaching number 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in February 2021. It also achieved success in the UK, reaching number three, and made it into the top 10 of the Billboard Global 200 chart. The song was produced by the Cypriot producer Pxcoyo and incorporates samples from Arijit Singh’s “Sanam Re” (2015). Notably, “Whoopty” received official remixes, one titled “Whoopty NYC” by fellow American rappers French Montana and Rowdy Rebel, and another titled “Whoopty Latin Mix” by Puerto Rican rappers Anuel AA and Ozuna.

43. Drake – Fair Trade ft Travis Scott

“Fair Trade” is a track on Drake’s sixth studio album, Certified Lover Boy, released on September 3, 2021. The song includes contributions from Canadian rapper Drake and American rapper/producer Travis Scott in both vocals and production.

44. Baby Keem, Kendrick Lamar – Family ties

“Family Ties” (written in all lowercase) is a track performed by American rappers Baby Keem and Kendrick Lamar. It was published on August 27, 2021, by Columbia Records and pgLang. This song marks the fourth single from Baby Keem’s debut album, “The Melodic Blue.” Additionally, it represents Kendrick Lamar’s initial musical release under pgLang, a production company he co-founded in March 2020.

45. Lil Nas ft. Jack Harlow – Industry Baby

“Industry Baby” is a song by Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow, released in July 2021 under Columbia Records. Co-produced by Kanye West and Take a Daytrip, it’s the third single from Lil Nas X’s album Montero. The song achieved significant success, debuting at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and later reaching number one. It also received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Melodic Rap Performance at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards.

46. Kay Flock – PSA

The song “PSA” by Kay Flock features aggressive and violent lyrics, with references to gun violence and gang activity. The artist boasts about being tough and willing to shoot anyone who crosses him. He claims to be the king of New York and implies that he’s responsible for making people run in fear. The lyrics also mention engaging in illegal activities and using drugs. The overall tone of the song is confrontational and threatening, reflecting a violent and dangerous lifestyle.

47. Internet Money – Lemonade ft Don Toliver, Gunna & Nav

“Lemonade” is a trap song by Internet Money featuring Gunna, Don Toliver, and Nav. Released in 2020 as the second single from Internet Money’s debut album “B4 the Storm,” the song became a huge success, peaking at number six on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts in several countries. The song features a “pummeling” beat with aggressive verses from Gunna and Nav and a soulful chorus from Don Toliver. It gained popularity on social media platforms like TikTok during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The music video follows a SpongeBob SquarePants theme, with the artists living lavish lifestyles underwater in a fishbowl of lemonade. The remix of the song featuring Roddy Ricch was also well-received, and a Latin remix with Anuel AA was released later. The song’s creation involved a collaborative effort between the artists and producers, and it experienced several leaks before its official release. The track showcases the artists’ success and rags-to-riches stories, making it a standout hit.

48. Drake – Knife Talk ft 21 savage, Project Pat

“Knife Talk” is a song by Drake featuring 21 Savage and Project Pat. It was released in 2021 as part of Drake’s album “Certified Lover Boy.” Originally intended for 21 Savage and Metro Boomin’s collaboration album, the song features a sample from Project Pat’s verse in “Feed the Streets.” The song has a dark and menacing vibe, with the artists rapping about their experiences with violence and street life. The official music video was released in November 2021.

49. Lil Baby – Right on

“Right On” is a song by Lil Baby. In the song, he talks about his success, lifestyle, and experiences in the hood. He slides his Rolls-Royce through the neighborhood, flexing his wealth and success. Lil Baby also reflects on relationships and trust issues. He emphasizes his authenticity in his music, not putting on a facade. The song showcases Lil Baby’s confident and braggadocious style, backed by a trap beat.

50. Drake – Jumbotron Shit Poppin

“Jumbotron Shit Poppin” is a song by Drake from his collaborative album “Her Loss” with 21 Savage. The song received mixed reviews, with some praising its melodic flow while others found it unnecessary. The music video, released later, showcases Drake living a lavish lifestyle, surrounded by luxury items and hanging out with friends and celebrities. The visuals also include cameos from other artists and celebrities.

Here is our Top 50 Hip Hop Songs of 2023 so far, Hip hop fans can look forward to more exciting releases from their favorite artists and emerging talents. The genre’s ability to reflect social issues, personal struggles, and triumphs ensures that it will continue to resonate with listeners worldwide.

Whether you enjoy the club anthems that make you dance or the introspective tracks that make you contemplate life, hip-hop in 2023 offers something for everyone. So, turn up the volume, immerse yourself in the beats, and let the top hip-hop songs of 2023 be the soundtrack to your year.