2013, A helluva year for Hip Hop, Part three. 2013년의 힙합을 말한다

Text by John Glynn

This is a last article about the best 20 rappers and hiphop songs in 2013 by contributor John Glynn.

 

14. J. Cole Feat Nas: Let Nas Down (Remix)
As hip-hop edges closer to middle age (let’s not forget that rap is well into its mid 30s), the metaphorical lyrical torch is passed from a true great to a talented, aspiring rapper. Make himself vulnerable through thought provoking sentiments, J. Cole’s “Let Nas Down” was one of 2013’s golden moments. Nas, a true master of the art, guest appears and absolutely steals the show. This is in no way a poor reflection on Cole, as Nasir is one of the most inspiring rappers to ever grace the world of music. Cole puts it all on the line, bearing his soul through lyrical nostalgia.

 

15. Rick Ross feat. Dr. Dre and Jay Z: 3 Kings
A larger than life character, both physically and artistically, Rick Ross certainly knows how to deliver tunes steeped in brilliance. The reason this track isn’t further up the list is simply because there was so much hype and marketing prior to its drop, and while it is an excellent offering, it didn’t deserve the publicity that accompanied it. Getting the nod on the production front, Jake One assists in building an instrumental on top of a classic hip-hop foundation. The slightly enigmatic Dr. Dre kicks off with an expressive opening verse. Following up is Ross with a characteristically Maybach influenced verse. A track saturated in egotistical boasts and tales of billionaire aspirations; it really is no surprise that Jay-Z appears. As “modest” as ever, Jigga raps about being the “richest rapper alive,” quite a memorable ending to a stellar offering.

 

16.  2Chainz Feat. Pharrell: Feds Watching
While 2 Chainz is not renowned for his in depth knowledge of governmental procedures, one of 2013’s most Googled names seems to be extremely alarmed by the level of supervision over the lives of US citizens. On the first single from his sophomore album, 2Chainz refuses to let his arrogance and swagger be dictated by the government, spurting the defying line:“I’m goanna be fresh as hell if the Feds Watching.”

 

17. Chris Brown Feat. Aaliyah : Don’t Think They Know
Mel & Mus, the masters of infectious beats, provide a blissful ambience that compliments Brown beautifully. The controversial artist trades sentimental, somewhat enigmatic lines with a truly unforeseen companion: a goddess from the 90s known as Aaliyah. Newly discovered vocals from the iconic R&B songstress are unearthed for this affectionate duet.

 

18. Pusha T Feat. Pharrell: S.N.I.T.C.H.
Utterly influential in every way imaginable, this track tells the story of an individual plotting to rat a friend out, and in return he will be rewarded early release from jail. The sublime beats on the Pharrell Williams-produced track compliment not just this song but this incredible album.

 

19. ScHoolboy Q: Yay Yay
No matter whether he is guest appearing or individually dictating a track, Q never fails to leave an indelible impression. ScHoolboy has always thrived on rapping about the graphic side of street life, just listen to and appreciate the rhythmic beats of “Oxy Music” and “Kamikaze.” Both tracks are extremely gritty, yet “Yay Yay” may be his grittiest work yet. While far from his greatest ever piece of work, the lyrics still carry significant weight.

 

20. A$AP Ferg feat. A$AP Rocky: Shabba
The A$AP duo launch an assault through a tirade of communicative bullets. It’s aggressive, strident and loathsome, and it’s idolizing an odious homophobe in the process, yes, Shabba Ranks. Yet, amidst all this controversy,  its alluring and infectious beat is undeniable, and some of the finest rhyming of 2013 appears right here.

 

Contributor, John Glynn

As a contributor of CultureM Magazine, he is writing about global culture, for example, movie, music so on. And he has a PhD in Psychology.

영국 출신의 컬쳐엠매거진 컨트리뷰터 존 그린은 영화, 음악 등 문화 관련 컨텐츠에서 날카로운 분석을 통한 심도 깊은 이야기를 전해주고 있다.