Top 100 Hip Hop Songs Of The 1980s
Remember when Hip Hop was a local scene before it exploded globally? Emerging from the Bronx in the 1970s, it wasn’t until 1979 that the Sugarhill Gang’s “Rapper’s Delight” brought Hip Hop into the mainstream, complete with its iconic disco beats. During the early 80s, artists mostly released singles to keep the party vibes going. But by the mid-80s, record labels began to notice, leading to a wave of Hip Hop albums flooding the market. This period marked Hip Hop’s rapid expansion and its global domination.
Take a look at our list of the Top 100 Hip Hop tracks from the 80s. Did your favorites make the cut? Share your thoughts and any tracks we might have missed in the comments!
1. Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five – The Message (1982)
In 1982, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five shook the Hip Hop world with “The Message.” This track delivered powerful social commentary, providing a stark and realistic depiction of life in the inner city. The origins of the song trace back to 1980, when Duke Bootee and Melle Mel wrote it as a response to a crippling transit strike in New York City. Melle Mel’s iconic verse, starting with “A child is born with no state of mind…”, vividly captured the struggles faced by inner-city youth. “The Message” didn’t shy away from addressing harsh truths, setting the stage for a new wave of conscious rap. It was a pivotal moment in Hip Hop that forever changed the genre’s direction.
2. Public Enemy – Rebel Without A Pause (1987)
Public Enemy’s magnum opus, It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back, wasn’t crafted in a day. In 1987, P.E. released “Rebel Without a Pause,” the album’s lead single and a crucial piece in its development. This track served as the link between the gritty intensity of their debut, Yo! Bum Rush The Show, and the refined production brilliance of the Bomb Squad on It Takes a Nation. Dropping a year ahead of the full album, “Rebel Without a Pause” offered a searing glimpse into the explosive force that was about to revolutionize Hip Hop.
3. Run DMC – Sucker MCs (1983)
Run-DMC came out swinging in 1983. Their debut single, “It’s Like That,” was a gamechanger, but it was the B-side, “Sucker MCs,” that really shook things up. This wasn’t just another early 80s Hip Hop track; the beat was stripped down and powerful, providing the perfect backdrop for Run and DMC’s bold, new rap style. It was a defiant break from the past and a clear signal of a new era. “Sucker MCs” set the stage for the golden age of Hip Hop, driven by raw beats and even rawer rhymes. And Run-DMC? They were the ones who sparked the revolution.
4. Eric B & Rakim – Microphone Fiend (1988)
Eric B & Rakim ignited the rap scene with “Microphone Fiend.” The beat thumps with intensity, perfectly complementing Rakim’s lyrical prowess. Each word is delivered with razor-sharp precision, creating a track that’s both sonically and lyrically powerful. Released in 1988, “Microphone Fiend” may not have climbed the charts instantly, but it’s since earned its place as a cornerstone in Hip Hop history.
5. Doug E Fresh & The Get Fresh Crew – The Show / La Di Da Di (1985)
In 1985, Doug E. Fresh & The Get Fresh Crew delivered two iconic tracks, “The Show” and “La Di Da Di,” both featuring the emerging talent of Slick Rick. These double A-side releases quickly became legendary, showcasing Doug E. Fresh’s groundbreaking beatboxing and Slick Rick’s unique style. These songs remain foundational pieces of golden-age Hip Hop.
6. LL Cool J – Rock The Bells (1985)
LL Cool J’s debut album Radio was a pivotal moment in Hip Hop when it hit the scene in 1985. Among its defining tracks was “Rock the Bells,” which solidified LL’s reputation as a formidable lyricist.
For the true Hip Hop enthusiasts, there’s an original, uncut version of “Rock the Bells” that’s worth seeking out. This seven-minute version showcases LL’s relentless flow over Rick Rubin’s intense beat, accentuated by those unmistakable bells. Both versions are must-listens for anyone looking to grasp the essence of Hip Hop’s golden era.
7. Public Enemy – Fight The Power (1989)
It’s impossible to discuss Public Enemy without highlighting “Fight the Power.” This powerful track served as the anthem for Spike Lee’s groundbreaking film Do the Right Thing, amplifying its social message. Beyond the movie, “Fight the Power” became a defining call to action for a generation, cementing its place as an enduring Hip Hop classic.
8. Eric B & Rakim – I Ain’t No Joke (1987)
What a way to kick off an album. “I Ain’t No Joke” not only sets the tone for Eric B. & Rakim’s debut but also cements Rakim’s iconic status in Hip Hop. Following the success of their 1986 singles “Eric B. Is President” and “My Melody,” the duo came back even harder in 1987 with Paid in Full. This opening track is a cornerstone of Hip Hop, much like the album itself.
9. Big Daddy Kane – Set It Off (1988)
Big Daddy Kane’s debut album, Long Live The Kane, is a classic, and “Set It Off” perfectly illustrates why. With a timeless beat crafted by Marley Marl, Kane takes center stage, showcasing his sharp, witty lyrics and unmistakable swagger. “Set It Off” served as Kane’s bold statement of his arrival and the beginning of his legendary status.
10. Boogie Down Productions – My Philosophy (1988)
In 1988, Boogie Down Productions unleashed a powerful statement with “My Philosophy.” KRS-One critiqued the commercialization of Hip Hop, targeting “wack” rappers who valued fame and wealth over genuine artistry and honesty. With its memorable lines and strong message, “My Philosophy” emerged as a key anthem for conscious rap. Decades later, its call for authenticity remains relevant, proving it’s not just a relic but a timeless piece that maintains the essence of Hip Hop.
11. Run DMC – Peter Piper (1986)
“Peter Piper” kicks off Run-D.M.C.’s groundbreaking album Raising Hell, their third and most acclaimed release. This opening track serves as a nod to the skills of Jam Master Jay, showcasing his prowess on the turntables. With a playful blend of rhymes inspired by fairy tales and nursery rhymes, Run and D.M.C. flaunt their lyrical dexterity while celebrating JMJ’s exceptional talent behind the decks.
12. Public Enemy – Black Steel In The Hour Of Chaos (1988)
Unfiltered, political, and strikingly impactful, Chuck D’s lyrics in “Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos” narrate a gripping tale of a prison break, challenging a flawed system with intense defiance. His verses brim with righteous indignation, harmoniously paired with a high-energy instrumental. This track is a powerful critique of injustice, showcasing Public Enemy’s talent for merging narrative with social critique. It embodies the essence of Public Enemy as a formidable force in the pursuit of social transformation.
13. Boogie Down Productions – South Bronx (1986)
Boogie Down Productions’ track “South Bronx” served as a rebuttal to MC Shan’s “The Bridge,” firmly establishing the Bronx as Hip Hop’s birthplace and asserting BDP’s dominance on the mic. The beat, crafted by DJ Scott La Rock, KRS-One, and Ced Gee of Ultramagnetic MCs, complements KRS-One’s intense lyrical delivery. This track was the standout opening of BDP’s influential debut album, Criminal Minded, which debuted in 1987.
14. Audio Two – Top Billin’ (1987)
Released in 1987, Audio Two’s “Top Billin’” remains a timeless Hip Hop classic. With its energetic revival of the “Impeach the President” beat, the track was the lead single from their 1988 album What More Can I Say?. Its infectious rhythm makes it a perennial favorite, ensuring its place in Hip Hop history as a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
15. N.W.A – Straight Outta Compton (1988)
N.W.A’s Straight Outta Compton made a seismic impact in 1988. The album was gritty, unfiltered, and boldly authentic. N.W.A was instrumental in shaping gangsta rap, offering a raw portrayal of life in Compton that both shocked and intrigued listeners. Dr. Dre’s groundbreaking production set a new standard for West Coast Hip Hop, while Ice Cube, MC Ren, and Eazy-E delivered powerful lyrics with intense energy and brutal honesty.
The title track, “Straight Outta Compton,” served as a powerful introduction to this revolutionary album. It marked the arrival of a new wave of rap artists ready to make their mark. Though the album inspired many imitators, few could match the originality and depth of N.W.A’s work. “Straight Outta Compton” remains a timeless classic and a major influence in the world of Hip Hop.
16. Slick Rick – Children’s Story (1988)
Slick Rick’s debut album, The Great Adventures of Slick Rick, made its mark in 1988, following his standout contributions to Doug E. Fresh’s tracks “The Show” and “La Di Da Di” in 1985. While the album showcases Rick’s lyrical prowess across various tracks, “Children’s Story” stands out as the highlight. This song perfectly captures Rick’s unique blend of humor, cleverness, and seamless flow, embodying the storytelling that has made him a legend in Hip Hop. From the first verse, “Children’s Story” hooks listeners, solidifying Slick Rick’s reputation as a master storyteller.
17. Kurtis Blow – The Breaks (1980)
Kurtis Blow achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first rapper to sign with a major record label, and his track “The Breaks” made waves as the first Hip Hop single to earn gold certification. This groundbreaking song played a crucial role in paving the way for Hip Hop to enter the mainstream.
18. Just Ice – Going Way Back (1987)
Just-Ice’s “Going Way Back” serves as a nostalgic journey into Hip Hop’s origins. Featuring a young KRS-One, the track immerses listeners in the early days of the genre. Just-Ice guides the way, mentioning key figures and honoring the roots of Hip Hop. It’s a vibrant history lesson wrapped in compelling rhymes, celebrating the genre’s birthplace in the Bronx.
19. Eric B & Rakim – Eric B Is President (1986)
Produced by the legendary Marley Marl, this track makes an impact right from the start. Rakim’s memorable opening lines (“I came in the door, I said it before…”) are instantly recognizable and etched in Hip Hop history. With Marley Marl’s groundbreaking production laying the groundwork, Rakim delivers a display of lyrical brilliance.
20. LL Cool J – I’m Bad (1987)
LL Cool J’s 1987 track “I’m Bad” stands as a powerful assertion of confidence and lyrical prowess. In this track, LL Cool J challenges his rivals while showcasing his mic skills and undeniable charisma. “I’m Bad” quickly became one of his most iconic hits, solidifying LL Cool J’s status as Hip Hop’s first major superstar.
21. Ice T – 6 N The Morning (1986)
In 1985, Schoolly D’s “P.S.K. What Does It Mean” set the stage for the emergence of gangsta rap. By 1986, Ice-T’s “6 N The Morning” took the subgenre to new heights. Ice-T offered a unique take on the scene, blending authenticity with humor and exuding confidence without the typical bravado. His approach was distinct, steering clear of the clichéd tough-guy image common among later gangsta rappers. “6 N The Morning” is notable for its raw and vivid storytelling. Ice-T’s candid honesty and sharp wordplay create a compelling portrayal of street life, establishing him as a pioneering force in gangsta rap and solidifying his place as a true innovator in the genre.
22. Funky 4 Plus 1 – That’s The Joint (1980)
“That’s The Joint” marks two significant milestones. It’s the debut single from Funky 4 Plus 1, who made history as the first rap group to secure a record deal. Additionally, this track features the pioneering presence of a female rapper, setting a precedent for future generations of women in Hip Hop. The song has achieved classic status and its samples have been featured in numerous Hip Hop tracks over the years.
23. Schoolly D – PSK, What Does It Mean? (1985)
In 1985, Schoolly D’s “P.S.K. What Does It Mean?” marked a significant shift in Hip Hop, establishing itself as a fundamental track in the emergence of gangsta rap. The song’s unflinching honesty and dark humor provided a stark, authentic portrayal of street life, setting a new precedent in the genre. Its impact is evident, influencing future artists like Ice-T, who drew inspiration from this groundbreaking track. “P.S.K. What Does It Mean?” endures as a seminal piece, reshaping Hip Hop with its raw and compelling narrative.
24. Ice T – Colors (1988)
Ice-T’s impactful track offers a stark portrayal of the harsh realities underlying gang violence. The song’s lyrics vividly illustrate street life, reflecting Ice-T’s trademark honesty and incisive social critique.
25. Boogie Down Productions – Criminal Minded (1987)
KRS-One delivers a masterclass in lyrical sharpness and clever wordplay with this track, setting a new standard in the genre. The beat is equally powerful, complementing the intense lyrical flow perfectly. “Criminal Minded” stands out as a highlight on the pioneering album of the same name. This album, along with other influential releases such as Run-DMC’s Raising Hell, Eric B. & Rakim’s Paid in Full, Public Enemy’s Yo! Bum Rush the Show, and LL Cool J’s initial albums, played a crucial role in defining Hip Hop’s Golden Age.
26. Beastie Boys – Paul Revere (1986)
The track stands out with its distinctive bassline and innovative reverse beat. Created by Run-DMC and Rick Rubin, the song humorously imagines the origins of the Beastie Boys in a fictional narrative. Its creativity is nothing short of brilliant.
27. Public Enemy – Don’t Believe The Hype (1988)
Public Enemy’s “Don’t Believe the Hype” from their groundbreaking second album takes aim at media deceit with incisive lyrics. Chuck D delivers a powerful message, encouraging listeners to scrutinize the information they receive and challenge prevailing narratives. With its iconic beat providing a strong backdrop, “Don’t Believe the Hype” stands as a lasting call for critical thinking and continues to resonate with audiences today.
28. Ultramagnetic MCs – Ego Trippin’ (1986)
In 1986, Ultramagnetic MCs released “Ego Trippin’”, a precursor to the brilliance that would fully unfold in their 1988 album Critical Beatdown. This track is a showcase of creative ingenuity, with its sharp rhymes, dynamic energy, and groundbreaking production setting the stage for their future success.
29. MC Lyte – Cha Cha Cha (1989)
MC Lyte makes a powerful statement with “Cha Cha Cha,” the opening track from her second album, Eyes on This. Dropped in 1989, this song bursts with energetic Hip Hop vibes. MC Lyte delivers her verses with precision and authority, while the classic beat underpins her commanding performance. “Cha Cha Cha” is a standout anthem that solidified MC Lyte’s status as a leading force in Hip Hop’s golden era.
30. N.W.A – F*** Tha Police (1988)
The release of this track sparked immediate controversy due to its stark and unvarnished depiction of police brutality in Compton. The lyrics, infused with intense anger and frustration, struck a chord with a generation. Unfortunately, the issues it addressed are still relevant. “F*** tha Police” endures as a powerful anthem and a testament to the ongoing struggle for justice.
31. Stop The Violence Movement – Self Destruction (1989)
Remember when Hip Hop was driven by messages of awareness and positive change? The Stop the Violence Movement, initiated by KRS-One to address violence within the Hip Hop and African American communities, embodied this ethos. Their 1989 hit, featuring an impressive roster of East Coast talent, was a major track of the year and continues to hold significance today.
32. Eric B & Rakim – Paid In Full (1987)
With its memorable bass line and Rakim’s legendary verses, “Paid In Full” stands out as a defining track in Hip Hop history. Rakim’s powerful lyrics are some of the best in the genre, and it’s a song that many people can recite by heart.
33. The Treacherous Three – Body Rock (1980)
The Treacherous Three, a pioneering Hip Hop group, includes Kool Moe Dee as its standout member. Their track “Body Rock” showcases the classic Old School rap style of its time, with extended verses and a traditional feel. Notably, it is recognized as the first Hip Hop song to blend rock elements into its sound.
34. De La Soul – Buddy (1989)
“Buddy,” the third single from De La Soul’s groundbreaking debut 3 Feet High and Rising, radiates a vibrant and playful energy with its witty, layered lyrics. The music video features guest appearances from the Jungle Brothers, Q-Tip, and Monie Love, enhancing its charm. The original track, found on the 3 Feet High and Rising album, is equally impressive.
35. Eric B & Rakim – Follow The Leader (1988)
“Follow The Leader” highlights Rakim’s exceptional lyrical skill, offering five minutes of pure mastery. The track demonstrates Rakim’s advanced technique and depth, inviting listeners to experience its layers through multiple listens. It takes you on a metaphorical journey, exploring both outer space and inner thoughts—truly a lyrical tour de force.
36. Public Enemy – Public Enemy No. 1 (1987)
Public Enemy’s debut single, launched in 1987, marked a pivotal moment in Hip Hop. It was musically unprecedented, featuring a revolutionary sound crafted by the Bomb Squad that became synonymous with the group. With Chuck D’s commanding voice and his energetic interactions with Flavor Flav, Public Enemy defined a distinctive style that propelled them to prominence in the Hip Hop world.
37. EPMD – You Gots To Chill (1988)
“You Gots To Chill” is a defining track for EPMD, showcasing their signature blend of relaxed, funk-driven Hip Hop. This song, which is as enduring as the album it comes from, Strictly Business, continues to stand out as a timeless classic.
38. Beastie Boys – Shake Your Rump (1989)
This track encapsulates the brilliance of Paul’s Boutique. Although the album initially struggled commercially—possibly due to expectations for more of the “Fight For Your Right” frat rap style—Paul’s Boutique is now celebrated as a creative and innovative masterpiece.
39. Stetsasonic – Talkin’All That Jazz (1988)
“Talkin’ All That Jazz” addresses the criticisms surrounding sampling in Hip Hop. It stands out as a highlight from Stetsasonic’s strong sophomore album, In Full Gear.
40. Boogie Down Productions – The Bridge Is Over (1987)
Targeted at the Juice Crew and crafted as a retort to MC Shan’s “Kill That Noise,” “The Bridge Is Over” delivers the decisive blow in the Bridge Wars. Its brilliance lies in its simplicity, featuring a distinctive beat, crisp drum kicks, and a timeless piano melody that make it immediately memorable.
41. EPMD – So Whatcha Sayin’ (1989)
Selecting the ideal opening track for an album is a skill that EPMD excelled at. They achieved this with their debut album and repeated the feat with their second release. “So Whatcha Sayin’” perfectly establishes the mood for Unfinished Business, which ultimately matched the excellence of their first album.
42. MC Lyte – Paper Thin (1988)
As a top-tier emcee, regardless of gender, MC Lyte’s debut album remains an enduring classic that every Hip Hop enthusiast should own. The standout track, “Paper Thin,” is where Lyte truly made her name.
43. MC Shan – The Bridge (1986)
The track that ignited the famous “Bridge Wars” was a response to MC Shan’s assertion that Hip Hop originated in Queens. Although “The Bridge” may not have explicitly claimed this, it prompted a strong rebuttal from KRS-One’s Boogie Down Productions. This sparked one of Hip Hop’s early rivalries and led to several memorable BDP tracks. Produced by Marley Marl, “The Bridge” itself stands as a timeless classic.
44. N.W.A – Dopeman (Original) (1987)
Included in the NWA & The Posse compilation alongside Eazy-E’s original “Boyz N The Hood,” this track marked N.W.A’s bold debut. With iconic lyrics from Ice Cube and groundbreaking production from a young Dr. Dre, it laid the groundwork for the group’s significant impact on Hip Hop.
45. Biz Markie – Vapors (1988)
As the lead single from Biz Markie’s debut album Goin’ Off, this track showcases Biz’s storytelling prowess. He vividly portrays how people’s attitudes change when one achieves success.
46. Eric B & Rakim – Move The Crowd (1987)
Rakim transformed boastful rap by adding an intellectual touch. His approach to declaring his superiority was marked by a blend of casual confidence and sophistication, all while steering clear of explicit language.
47. Biz Markie – Make The Music With Your Mouth, Biz (1986)
Produced by Marley Marl, this iconic track features Biz Markie, who initially gained recognition beatboxing for Roxanne Shante before establishing himself as a solo artist. A prominent figure in the Juice Crew, Biz was also a close collaborator with Big Daddy Kane, who would later leave his own significant impact on Hip Hop. This song first appeared as the lead track on a 1986 EP and was later included on Biz Markie’s 1988 debut album, Goin’ Off.
48. Eazy E – Boyz N The Hood (1988)
This updated version on Eazy-E’s debut album, Eazy-Duz-It, surpasses the original from 1987. It stands out as another classic, produced by Dr. Dre.
49. Big Daddy Kane – Smooth Operator (1989)
“Smooth Operator” is one of Big Daddy Kane’s most famous and iconic tracks. It showcases his suave, ladies-man image while lyrically outshining his rivals. This track epitomizes Big Daddy Kane’s signature smooth style at its best.
50. Eric B & Rakim – My Melody (1986)
Here’s another standout track produced by Marley Marl, featuring Rakim delivering top-tier verses over a compelling and powerful beat. The intricate rhymes and clever wordplay are remarkable, with the references to the ‘7 emcees’ becoming some of the most iconic lines in Hip Hop history.
51. Jazzy Jay & T La Rock – It’s Yours (1984)
52. Eric B & Rakim – Lyrics Of Fury (1988)
53. Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five – New York New York (1983)
54. Run DMC – Darryl & Joe (1985)
55. Big Daddy Kane – Ain’t No Half Steppin’ (1988)
56. Ice T – Squeeze The Trigger (1987)
57. The D.O.C. – It’s Funky Enough (1989)
58. LL Cool J – I Can’t Live Without My Radio (1985)
59. Marley Marl – The Symphony (1988)
60. Afrika Bambaataa – Planet Rock (1982)
61. Ice T – You Played Yourself (1989)
62. Special Ed – I Got It Made (1989)
63. Fearless Four – Rockin It (1982)
64. Run DMC – Beats To The Rhyme (1988)
65. Public Enemy – Night Of The Living Baseheads (1988)
66. Grandmaster Melle Mel & The Furious Five – White Lines (1983)
67. Just Ice – Cold Gettin’ Dumb (1986)
68. Gang Starr – Manifest (1989)
69. UTFO – Leader Of The Pack (1985)
70. J.V.C. Force – Strong Island (1987)
71. Queen Latifah ft Monie Love – Ladies First (1989)
72. Big Daddy Kane – Warm It Up Kane (1989)
73. Stetsasonic – Go Stetsa I (1986)
74. DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince – Brand New Funk (1988)
75. Grandmaster Melle Mel & The Furious Five – Step Off (1984)
76. Kool G Rap & DJ Polo – Road To The Riches (1989)
77. Biz Markie – Just A Friend (1989)
78. Slick Rick – Hey Young World (1988)
79. Mantronix – Bassline (1985)
80. Roxanne Shante – Bite This (1985)
81. Boogie Down Productions – You Must Learn (1989)
82. Run DMC – King Of Rock (1985)
83. De La Soul – Say No Go (1989)
84. Ultramagnetic MCs – Watch Me Now (1988)
85. Run DMC – My Adidas (1986)
86. Grandmaster Melle Mel & The Furious Five – Beat Street (1984)
87. Tuff Crew – My Part Of Town (1988)
88. Big Daddy Kane – Raw (1987 / 1988)
89. Cold Crush Brothers – Fresh, Wild, Fly & Bold (1984)
90. N.W.A – Express Yourself (1988)
91. Run DMC – It’s Like That (1983)
92. Kool Moe Dee – Go See The Doctor (1986)
93. The D.O.C. – The Formula (1989)
94. 3rd Bass – Brooklyn Queens (1989)
95. Beastie Boys – The New Style (1986)
96. Public Enemy – Bring The Noise (1987)
97. LL Cool J – Jack The Ripper (1988)
98. Treacherous Three – The New Rap Language (1980)
99. Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock – It Takes Two (1988)
100. Fat Boys – Stick Em (1984)
Credit photo: “Who still listen it? My morning BGM to working today. ‘The Message – GRANDMASTER FLASH AND THE FURIOUS FIVE’ #grandmasterflash #themessage” by Takeshi Life Goes On is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
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