The Finale and The Intermission are by far two of my most favorite pieces that we create annually. One, they’re chances to sneak a look into what my Crewmates are really listening to and liking when no one else is around. And, as a result, their contributions usually go straight into my listening rotation because I know the songs they recommend here are the ones they co-sign to the fullest.
As well, both articles call for honest reflection. When we do these lists, each one of us is allotted only a small number of picks so it means you have to dig into folders, thumb through the iPod or my phone and really play through a lot of songs to decide which ones mean the most. Their shelf life extends way past the year itself and they end up being the ones I carry with me long after this list publishes.
Whittling down the year for 2015’s Finale has been no joke and may be one of the toughest years we’ve done in a while. Rap and music as a whole were active with big names coming with releases, upstarts making an impact and even veterans bringing fresh, new content to the table. Obviously, we couldn’t list every single track that mattered but we went through and grabbed the ones that meant the most to us. And here they are for you to enjoy.
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1. Pusha T – “Untouchable” — One half of the brothers Thorton is dedicated to making hoodie and Timberland music, but this time he does it with Timbaland on the beat. Not two who seem like a fitting pair, but El Presidente of G.O.O.D. Music seems to bring out the darkness in producers, getting them to channel all of their negative energy into a joint that fits him perfectly. It’s a match made in hell, and hopefully, the perfect appetizer for King Push: Darkest Before Dawn as well as suitable music when the snow starts to fall. Also, “f**k Donald and his pledge.” (Listen)
2. Syph Ft. Keegan Daniro – “Finesse” — It was a good year for strip club aficionado and rapper-turned-sanger Syph from the Nu Money Gang. Not only was his oft-delayed Rookie of the Year tape finally released, but he managed to take his brand to new heights with features from Tory Lanez, Belly, and banging records like “Finesse.” If the flesh game ever dries up, it’s good to know the rap game comes so easy to the hot spitter. “Finesse, finesse, finesse these hoeeeees…” (Listen)
3. Dr. Dre Ft. Justus and BJ The Chicago Kid – “All On Me” — Nobody will ever do gangsta rap quite like Dr. Dre. And while “All On Me” doesn’t exactly qualify as such, it’s further proof that even OGs have hearts, too. The billion dollar doctor recaps his entire professional career with the most soothing CliffsNotes of 2015. (Listen)
4. Mac Miller – “ROS” — I generally like when my rappers rap, and my singers sing, but there’s something endearing about Mac Miller opening up GO:OD AM’s “ROS” by crooning over a piano. Once it settles into an actual rap song Mac continues serenading his unnamed lover “rain or shine,” for one of the best tracks on one of the most surprisingly solid releases of the year. (Listen)
5. The Game Ft. Anderson .Paak – “Magnus Carlsen” — The Game’s decision to drop an album with two discs and about 20, 203 songs seemed ill advised. Then you press play, and are greeted with so much quality music you stop caring. The opener to Documentary 2.5 is just one of many that could be placed here. Game wisely watches Anderson .Paak handle much of the heavy lifting here, but when he steps in and weaves a tale about meeting El Chapo, it only enhances all the groundwork Paak laid beforehand. (Listen)
6. Drake – “Back To Back” — In the words of the great Peter Clemenza, “These things gotta happen every five years or so, ten years. Helps to get rid of the bad blood.” Drake finally had a willing foe in his sights and unleashed the most scathing diss of the Internet/meme era on Meek Mill. It’s bad enough he struck twice before Meek even threw his first punch, but lines like “Is that a world tour or your girl’s tour” going viral only added even more salt into Meek’s wounds. (Listen)
7. Young Thug – “Pacifier” — In July, Thug dropped the song that was supposed to be the lead single to his album, Hi-Tunes, which was supposed to drop in August. Things didn’t go according to plan, and with the album still is nowhere in sight “Pacifier” just floats in orbit, a forgotten track in a year when he released more than 60. That’s a shame, though, because by stepping out of his comfort zone, Thugger made one of the best songs of the year with some help from Mike WiLL Made-It. (Listen)
8. Ty Dolla $ign Ft. Sevyn Streeter – “Credit” — Making his living as one of the premiere ratchet experts in the current landscape of music, Ty Dolla scales it back and lays it all on the line with this Free TC standout. Sevyn Streeter’s soulful outro gives the record a feel of a long lost song from the Baby Boy soundtrack. (Listen)
9. Future – “Rotation” — B*TCH, I’M GETTIN’ THE SAME MONEY AS CAM NEWTON. **dabs** At least one person at TSS believes DS2 is the best album of 2015. So maybe that’s all the motivation Future needs to finally drop the damn video. (Listen)
10. Drake – “Hotline Bling” — Words don’t even do it justice how badly Cash Money dropped the ball by not submitting this song for Grammy consideration. In a career littered with monster records, Drake’s feel-good banger — or D.R.A.M. remake, depending how you see it — elevated him to another level of power and notoriety. The song impacted everywhere and everybody, from Adele to presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. Love it or hate it, you know you sing the lyrics in your head when it comes on. It’s impossible not to. And to think, this was just an OVO/Beats 1 loosie when it first dropped. (Listen)
11. Future – “Stick Talk” — The debate over the best song on DS2 may never end, but it shouldn’t be a tough decision. It’s “Stick Talk,” by a country mile. Whether it’s the shrieking Southside production, the bouncy hook, or the best butt-hole related line this side of Jhene Aiko’s groceries it all just works. (Listen)
12. Erykah Badu Ft. Andre 3000 – “Hello” — One of the most unexpected collaborations was also one of its most pleasing. The two former lovers prove their chemistry hasn’t lost a beat. And I mean, seriously, if we can’t get at least one more ‘Kast album, Seven’s parents should at least toss out a Valentine’s Day EP. Or something. Right? (Listen)
13. 50 Cent – “9 Shots” — Whenever Fif has gone to his pre-Get Rich Or Die Tryin’ days for inspiration, he’s never failed to deliver and “9 Shots” is no different. Yeah, we’ve heard this story before, but 50’s flair for dramatics and vivid imagery, along with an equally cinematic instrumental make it an especially entertaining tale this go round. (Listen)
14. Young Dolph Ft. Rick Ross and Jeezy – “Preach (Remix)” — This Zaytoven-produced heat rock was featured on a few of Dolph’s early mixtapes, but it wasn’t till former arch enemies Rick Ross and Jeezy jumped on the remix that it took off properly and put Young Dolph on the nationwide map. (Listen)
15. G Herbo aka Lil’ Herb – “I’m Rollin'” — If it’s not THE most aggro ecstasy song of 2015, it’s certainly runner up. (Listen)
16. Freddie Gibbs – “F*ckin’ Up The Count” — So you make what will undoubtedly become a career defining album with a legendary producer and receive rave reviews from critics and fans alike. Bravo, Freddie Gibbs! Question is, after such a stellar 2014, how do you follow it up? Answer? You do what it took The Wire 60 episodes to do in three and a half minutes. “Fuckin’ Up The Count,” the lead single from this year’s Shadow Of A Doubt, is a brilliant example of not only how much better of a rapper Freddie GIbbs is then everybody else, but also of how well he can take the most well-worn gangsta rap tropes and turn them into a visceral experience. (Listen)
17. Rick Ross Ft. The-Dream – “Money Dance” — Where “Foreclosures” found Renzel grousing about the harsh realities of the music industry, “Money Dance” returns him to his comfort zone. Money, of course. Joined by The-Dream, Rick Ross two steps all over a lush Jake One production, spouting Rich Nigga witticisms in ways only the biggest boss could envision. (Listen)
18. Tink – “I Like” — Maybe it was that 3am Uber ride with her head on my shoulder and this song on loop, or maybe it was C-Sick’s production tugging at my heart strings, but this song has been added into every playlist I’ve made it since it dropped. Tink has the emotional wisdom of a woman three times her age and the vocal chops to impart it on a record that will play in the background of thousands of young romances around the world. If her album cuts are all better than this, the young Chicago spitter with a face fit for magazine covers is going to be trading her tiara for a crown in 2016. (Listen)
19. Kendrick Lamar – ”Alright” — How do you bottle the feelings of frustration of an entire race after a year of police brutality? If you’re Kendrick, you make it a song about hope with the simple ethos that “We gon be alright.” We can talk about the dexterity in the mic, the wordplay, the ease in which he switches cadences, but ultimately, emotion wins out. And this song is packed with it. It’s a guy in his 20s looking at the temptation, violence, and despair around him and knowing that his inner strength and his faith is all he needs to make it through. This year, the revolution was televised and it had a dope theme song to boot. This was that song. (Listen)
20. Puff Daddy Ft. Ty Dolla $ign and Gizzle – “You Could Be My Lover” — With No Way Out 2 on the way, Diddy tapped up the hottest writer in the game for a new age disco groove that boasts enough quotables to keep an open bar singing all night long. Even though you can still hear Ty coaching Puff through his verse, Diddy truly owns the song with his “I brought drugs to the party!” line that will be echoing out of dancehalls and Ubers for the next decade. This sh*t could turn into the new “Blurred Lines” for 2016 once the radio gets behind it. Don’t forget TSS told you. (Listen)
21. Game Ft. Drake – “100” — On paper, Game grabbing Drake for his lead single seemed like a cheap ploy for spins, which was especially disturbing considering this was supposed to be the lead track from the rehash of his Documentary classic. Yet, the mellow dedication to staying down turned out especially potent, delivering ominous production from 40 that warranted repeat-ready verses from everyone involved, and a hook that never left your head. (Listen)
22. Bonkaz Ft. Avelino – “Shine” — South London is proving to be an unstoppable force in the music scene, breeding artists like Stormzy and Bonkaz seemingly at will. While the former exploded onto global radars a while back, Bonkz (no typo, keep it as Bonks/Bonkz) has been building his brand the old fashioned way by taking every show possible and dropping visuals for all of his bangers while crafting his new album. If “We Run The Block” and its aggressive slap wasn’t your cup of Buckfast, the brooding sounds and altruistic message are hard to disagree with. Spin this tune while you drive your little brother to graduation, your homey to his court date, or your girl to her big interview. (Listen)
23. Justin Bieber – “Sorry” — Justin Bieber’s Purpose was littered with standouts, but one of the highlights had to be “Sorry.” The song is an uptempo, highly relevant relationship record for Beliebers and non-Beliebers alike that is taking the charts and radio by storm. (Listen)
24. Freddie Gibbs Ft. Tory Lanez – “Mexico” — On paper, Freddie and Tory may not sound like the strongest lineup imaginable but sweet baby Jesus “Mexico” got so much burn it’s ridiculous. The track’s slow, crawling production by Murda set the stage for both artists to floss their strengths: for Lanez, a chorus that drilled its way into your brain, and Gibbs, his quick-tongued lines dedicated to dope-peddling. (Listen)
25. Future – “Slave Master” — Future’s DS2 was full of memorable moments, and “Slave Master” was one of his more touching songs. It reaches its pinnacle by the end, when he chants “Long Live ASAP Yams,” as we think about the lean addiction that is glamorized in rap today. (Listen)
26. Lil Wayne Ft. Mannie Fresh – “Fresh” — No Ceilings 2 had its moments, but “Fresh” was the intro track that transported us back in time to when Lil Wayne and Mannie Fresh regularly worked together. (Listen)
27. Boone – “Pop A Perc” — This North Philly no-namer’s song has been stuck in my head since I heard it on Instagram last month. “Pop a perc/Let it flow through my body/Oooh oooh mac daddy, mac daddy!” I expect this one to blow in 2016. (Listen)
28. iLoveMakonnen – “Second Chance” — Someone screwed up by not getting Makonnen’s “Second Chance” on FM radio. The “Tuesday” star had his second hit in the clip, by getting sentimental and turning DJ Mustard’s downtrodden head-nodder into a longing love song that would’ve worked on both pop and urban radio. Yet, no push. No matter where Mak stands with his label, OVO left money on the table by not promoting this one. (Listen)
29. Big K.R.I.T. Ft. Warren G – “No Static” — When jamming to this standout from Big Krizzle’s It’s Better This Way, I imagine the Mississippi spitter cooking up his southern G-Funk and thinking to himself, “Man, Warren G would sound perfect on this.” Then, because he’s the man, he went out of his way to track him down. Whether that’s what happened or not, the result is very natural and 100% cool. (Listen)
30. Young Thug – “Best Friend” — Thugger was taking them boys to school all year long, but this bouncy single from Slime Season might be his most infectious. Atop conspiring production from Ricky Racks and Young Shad, the YSL representative let it be known big ol’ booty bitches and money are his top dogs, while turning up his fans to level ten along the way. (Listen)
31. Justin Bieber Ft. Travi$ Scott – “No Sense” — Despite the Internet’s general disdain for former teeny bopper Justin Bieber, the dude has simply killed it with the music for a few years now. Journals was greatness, and Purpose took much of what worked there and built on it. The album’s best cut was undoubtedly the Travi$ Scott featured “No Sense.” (Listen)
32. Ta-ku Ft. JMSN and Sango – “Love Again” — Absolute beauty. The lyrics. The sparse production. The vocal arrangements. The sentiments behind it. (Listen)
33. Kevin Gates – “Kno One” –– This early single from Kevin Gates’ album, Islah, is super catchy and unintentionally hilarious. Gates is clearly aiming for radio and still using lines like “Other lames take you out shoppin’, dinner, and a movie/ Suck your titty in the mirror with a finger in your booty.” Never change, Kevin. (Listen)
34. Spoon Ft. Iamsu!, Kurupt and Boogie – “Inside Out” (DJ Quik Remix)” — As part of Yours Truly’s Song From Scratch series, DJ Quik brought together some of the Left Coast’s finest MCs for his snapping remix to Spoon’s “Inside Out.” Despite being completely out of left field, everyone nails their verse and the production is flawless, as expected. (Listen)
35. Ransom – “Commission (Freestyle)” — Bars, baby. Nothing but bars. (Listen)
36. Scotty ATL Ft. B.o.B. – “Bust It Open” — With production that sounds straight from a One Way or Gap Band album, Scotty ATL and Bobby Ray had no problem getting ladies to “Bust It Open” with this dab-ready single from his underrated project, The Cooligan. (Listen)
37. Janet Jackson – “Dammn Baby” — To the delight of her diehard fans, Janet’s 11th album, Unbreakable, was packed to the brim with all sorts of versatile vibes. However, amidst all the nostalgic and powerful jams, the new school funk found on Janet’s “Dammn Baby” is a dance record that’s seasoned to perfection and bound to leave listeners reaching for more deodorant. (Listen)
38. Fabolous Ft. Jazzy – “Real One” — Lauryn Hill’s beatific vocals from The Fugees “Killing Me Softly” remake form the substance of Automatik’s affecting production, and Fab’s tales of love and lust complements the beat like 40 belows and cold Brooklyn concrete. (Listen)
39. The Game Ft. Kendrick Lamar – “On Me” — Game’s sprawling two-disc epic, The Documentary 2, is Jayceon’s scattered representation of the city of Los Angeles which he holds so dearly. There are plenty of winners to pick from, but check out Kendrick killing Game on his own track. With lines like “And if Game told me, ’Drive by it,’ I raise AK / Ain’t no shame on it, cry about it, f*ck that, I’ll play,” K-Dot set the tone for one of the best albums of the year. (Listen)
40. Isaiah Rashad – “Nelly” — Dear Spottie, please let the new album come soon. Thanks! (Listen)
41. Method Man Ft. Raekwon and Inspectah Deck – “The Purple Tape” — Ghostface aside, Raekwon has been one of the most active members of Wu-Tang Clan in recent years. So, it’s no surprise when Chef maintains his storytelling ways after Method Man sets the table with a verse full of multiples. Inspectah Deck sounds reinvigorated as well, using a “flow everlasting” for a show-stealing final verse. Oh, and the track also reveals Mr. Mef’s son is named Raekwon. (Listen)
42. TUT – “Living On The Sun” — TUT’s Preacher’s Son project was filled with soul and the track brimming with it the most was “Living On The Sun” where the MC and collaborators Angel Mae, Swayyvo Sax and producer Ktoven put together tasty gem with live instrumentation. (Listen)
43. Justin Bieber – “Love Yourself” — “My mama don’t like you and she likes everyone” is one of the lines which sold me on Purpose. Whether or not it’s about Bieber’s ex, Selena Gomez, is irrelevant. It’s slick, grown man’s R&B, and that’s what made the album a sign of the 21-year-old’s musical evolution. (Listen)
44. Meek Mill – “Check” — Before things came crashing down, Meek Mill was riding a supreme high with the release of his sophomore album, Dreams Worth More Than Money. The Metro Boomin-produced track lead the summer and the album, serving as one of its early singles, catching much play in clubs and car speakers. (Listen)
45. Erykah Badu – “Cel U Lar Device” — The past five years have led up to this. Erykah adapted to Twitter almost immediately and as such, she’s felt like a constant present in my life. Her legacy seems to grow everyday, in no small part to her presence as @fatbellybella being a constant reminder of her living brilliance. And yet Badu hasn’t dropped an album since 2010, since the “Window Seat” video, since the Azealia Banks beef and Jay Electronica break-up, since Ferguson. Rather than returning to us splintered, and huffing and puffing, she comes back smoother than ever. She’s cool with love, even when it hurts. She’s old school but can make your new favorite song better. Like “Hotline Bling,” she’s timeless. (Listen)
46. Dr. Dre Ft. Anderson.Paak – “Animals” — Look, we can sit here and heap praise on “Animals” for tackling an unfortunately too familiar subject matter, or Anderson.Paak’s powerful words. But let’s not gloss over the fact that Dr. Dre and DJ Premier collaborated on a track. Like, that actually happened. (Listen)
47. Adele – “Hello” — I wasn’t sure I liked it, but it overtook me like a great wind. (Listen)
48. Tinashe Ft. Chris Brown – “Player” —– Tinashe is growing on me day by day! I love her when she’s making crisp, confident pop, like on “Player.” The fact that she would drop a song like this, a crossover anthem like the Snakehips and Chance collaboration, “All My Friends,” and the dark, growling “Party Favors,” all in quick succession, is a statement almost as big as any album could hope for. She’s got a Chris Brown-like work ethic, hopping from pop vanguard to pop vanguard with style, wit, and a broad, overwhelming sex appeal. And dope music, fam. (Listen)
49. The Internet Ft. KAYTRANADA – “Girl” — The Internet’s Ego Death has some wonderful singles. Alongside the indelible “Get Away,” “Girl” is a shot of neo soul that reaches Jill Scott-like levels of pop perfection. “Girl” commands attention while soothing the mind. It’s the song you put on at a party when you want people to think you’re cool. (Listen)
50. The Internet – “Get Away” — Whether you can’t take the real world stresses of a lack of funds, or who the next president might be, or you’re avoiding finishing up that year end write up, Syd’s suggestion for her lover’s stress over this brooding baseline might help you relax too. (Listen)
51. Kendrick Lamar – “How Much A Dollar Cost” — President Obama’s co-sign obviously helped in terms of shining light on “How Much A Dollar Cost,” but it wasn’t necessary. It only took listening to the TPAB cut to understand how gripping rap can still be and that our MCs are still some of the best songwriters and storytellers in music, regardless of genre. Kendrick’s thoughtful depiction of a random crossing of paths between two individuals was the kind of cut that will leave you thinking long after the beat stops. (Listen)
52. Jay Rock Ft. Black Hippy – “Vice City” — While Jay Rock finally dropped a post-GKMC solo, there was one track that had everyone’s attention. The Black Hippies got together to use some staccato flows and talk about their vices (big money AND big booty bitches). (Listen)
53. Wale Ft. Skeme – “Know Me” — Wale’s been holed up in L.A. recording tons of music, and he thankfully linked up with Inglewood’s Skeme while on his side of the country. “Know Me” is a disappointingly short, but still satisfying, pair of verses between the two talented rappers with Harry Fraud on production. The trio shared great chemistry, so let’s hope that this wasn’t just a one-off, but a preview of more to come in 2016. (Listen)
54. Ty Dolla $ign – “Horses in the Stable” — With enough strategy, Cuffin’ Season can be the most glorious time of the year. For those wise enough to stock the stable with enough talent, the cold winter months will overflow with dirty linens and empty wine bottles more nights than not, and Ty Dolla has known the blueprint from time. Do yourself a favor, and peep game on one of the hottest tunes from his Free TC debut that still gets daily, no-skip rotation. (Listen)
55. The Weeknd – “Acquainted” — Though a pop album, one of the R&B bright spots on Beauty Behind The Madness was “Acquainted” and I couldn’t get enough this year. The record is one of those rare occasions where Abel isn’t crooning about doing lines or self-loathing, opting to sing of an infatuation instead on the sexy as f*ck track. (Listen)
56. Puff Daddy Ft. Jadakiss, Styles P, Pusha T, and Tish – “Everyday (Armor)” — Kiss describes the song as theme music to the Godfather trilogy, and it’s tough to argue with him. There’s something so violent, yet so elegant about the song, as Puff joins the three vets in talking a little street sh*t as only they can. On an album that sets the stage for No Way Out 2, this feels like something that could be on the original, and is a great sign of what’s to come. (Listen)
57. Jadakiss – “First 48” — Jada sets off his latest joint with 48 bars. No hook, no bridge, no filter. Just rhymes on top of rhymes, configured in different schemes, while lying in the beat perfectly. You know what you’re going to get with Jada when it comes to content, so there’s no surprises, but he’s so damn good at what he does and how he does it, there’s no need to complain. He knows who he is and what he’s about. It comes so effortlessly to him that you gotta wonder: Maybe he is top 5 dead or alive. (Listen)
58. Starlito Ft. Don Trip – “Check (Freestyle)” — Craig and Craig always manage to bring the best out of each other and “Check” is no different. Lito starts things off but it’s Trip’s rolling wordplay on verse two that sends this one over the top. (Listen)
59. Mac Miller – “Clubhouse” — Mac’s third album, GO:OD A.M., was an encyclopaedic journey through all of the sounds that have helped mold the Pittsburgh rhymer through the years. His turn on “Clubhouse” showed that his most comfortable lane, however, is tackling the ‘90s-tinged East Coast rap and twisting his flow to fit every contour of the beat. Other album cuts hit harder; “Clubhouse” just sounded right. (Listen)
60. Beach House – “PPP” — The sort of music you hope scores your dreams. (Listen)
61. Rick Ross Ft. Nas – “One of Us” — It was a bit of a surprise when Ross stepped up his game to keep up with Nas on On Deeper Than Rap‘s “Usual Suspects.” Over six years later, Rozay’s refined his pen game and flow, and doesn’t struggle in the least to follow Nasir’s lead. Per usual, the beat is on point, making “One of Us” a highlight from the Miami rapper’s return to form, Black Market. (Listen)
62. PARTYNEXTDOOR – “Kehlani Freestyle (Things and Such)” — PND’s warble is one of the most defining characteristics of his music. It probably serves to keep him as distant as possible from the listener with whom he’s sharing an intimate space, allowing him to wax poetic about all the vices his music details. However, on “Kehlani Freestyle,” the Mississauga, Ont., R&B star’s voice is front-and-center, describing the remorse he feels from messing up a relationship (allegedly with up-and-coming R&B star Kehlani). The whole track’s slightly unsettling, but serves to remind fans that the OVO star isn’t all smoke and mirrors. (Listen)
63. The Game – “Don’t Trip” Ft. Ice Cube, Dr. Dre and will.I.am — “That new bounce, new bounce, new bo-” sounds so nice on some speakers worth a damn. Game kind of sort of really showed out on this one, too. (Listen)
64. Jadakiss – “Synergy” Ft. Styles P — Shout out to Just Blaze for letting legendary New York rappers remind us why we gave them our ears in the first place. Their familiar in-and-out flow took us back to a time of oversized jerseys, headbands and Girbaud jeans. Those were some good times, bro. (Link)
65. Dr. Dre – “For The Love of Money” Ft. Jill Scott, Jon Connor and Anderson .Paak — Give Cardiak an inch of Bone Thugs’ hit and he re-imagines it into a new masterpiece. Jill’s vocals make the track extra chilly in a good way, while Dre follows Jon Connors’ lead flow-wise. (Listen)
66. Sango – Mudança Ft. Jarreau Vandal — Sango’s shooting 100% from the field with his ‘Da Rocinha’ series and his latest entry stands as his best one yet. ‘Mudança’ sees trap and baile funk worlds collide into the hardest beat on the album. Play it loudly until your neighbors bang on your door. (Listen)
67. Jelly Roll – “Smoking Section” — Over the years, Jelly Roll’s undergone a lot of growth and change personally and musically. Through it all, his ability to spin a narrative has only gotten stronger, which his exhibits in each of the verses on “Smoking Section.” (Listen)
68. Drake – “30 for 30 Freestyle” — Personally speaking, Drake’s at his best when he leaves his dry vocals at the door and raps his feels out. The 40 connection here also proves he sounds better with his bro behind the boards than with Metro Boomin’ snappin’ and trappin’ instead. Please make more of this kind of music, sir. (Listen)
69. Puff Daddy Ft. Lil’ Kim, King Los and Styles P – “Auction” — This is not Diddy. This is not Sean Combs. This is Puff Daddy. All of the bombast and swagger that ran urban radio for the better part of a decade is on display on this heart-racing sprint of a track. I thought he told you he won’t stop? (Listen)
70. Young Thug – “Hercules” — Young Thug officially released nearly 60 songs this year, and none may be more infectious than “Hercules.” Produced by Metro Boomin’ and leaked smack dab in the middle of their social media feud, the track probably helped to assuage whatever petty issues the duo were having. The song is simply fun, as evidenced by this video of Thug and his girlfriend having a sing-along with the catchy hook. (Listen)
71. Dej Loaf Ft. Big Sean – “Back Up” — Dej Loaf quietly had a follow-up hit on her hands with “Back Up,” her banging single with Big Sean off #AndSeeThatsTheThing, which had both the ladies and fellas acting tougher than usual. (Listen)
72. Rick Ross – “We Gon Make It” — Rick Ross had been stuck in a rut of making good, but ultimately forgettable, music over the past few years. His September mixtape, Black Dollar, felt like a jolt of energy from a seemingly complacent Ross, and “We Gon Make It,” with its surprisingly keen political commentary, is the tape’s standout. (Listen)
73. NxWorries (Anderson.Paak and Knxwledge) – “Suede” — Yes Lawd! Paak sanging that game over Knxwledge’s soul sampling resulted in one of the smoothest songs heard all year. (Listen)
74. D’banj Ft. Idris Elba and Shadowboxer – “Confidential” — Music knows no barriers, including language. The fact that I’ve probably been singing the wrong lyrics to Nigerian hitmaker D’Banj’s “Confidential” means not a damn thing because what I do know is the track has been a personal favorite these last several months. (Listen)
75. Dr. Dre – “Talking to My Diary” — This song played during the opening scene of Straight Outta Compton and set the movie off beautifully. It also has the distinct honor of closing Compton, possibly Dr. Dre’s last album. There’s something about those horns, drums, and strings that provide a perfect backdrop for a 30 year vet to talk to his mom, Eazy-E, and the rest of NWA as he reminisces. There’s a lot of emotion and honesty in the song, perfectly encapsulated with a saxophone outro that says more than words ever could. (Listen)
76. Jidenna – “Long Live The Chief” — Who knew the dapper dan behind “Classic Man” had some bars under his Calvin Candie clothing. (Listen)
77. Rick Ross Ft. Chris Brown – “Sorry” — Rick Ross is most in his element when he’s rapping over luxurious beats. Not saying his “harder” stuff lacks, but my comments are backed by the Chris Brown-featured “Sorry.” There’s just something about those lavish beats that brings out the fat man’s flow and makes listening to his fables so much more enjoyable. (Listen)
78. Kranium Ft. Ty Dolla $ign – “Nobody Has To Know” — Technically, Kranium’s explicit “Nobody Has To Know” is pretty old, but the Jamaican artist signed to Atlantic Records earlier this year and re-released the record with a Ty Dolla $ign verse. (Listen)
79. Trouble – “She In Love Wit Trouble” — Trouble had a busy year releasing a couple tapes, and the loosie “She In Love With Trouble” just might be one of the highlights. Who knows who inspired it, but the song showcases Trouble’s typical impressive lyrical display. (Listen)
80. 2 Milly – “Milly Rock” — Your hood party was nowhere near popping if the DJ didn’t play 2 Milly’s hood anthem which was always followed by Rowdy Rebel’s “Computers.” Perfect milly rocking jams. (Listen)
81. Vince Staples – “Norf Norf” — Easily one of the most memorable singles off one of the more memorable albums to drop in 2015, “Norf Norf” perfectly melds 90s-era G-Funk with new-age aesthetics. The result is a repeat-ready track that has racked up plays on my personal library since it’s release. (Listen)
82. Raury – “Friends” — There are moments when Raury is defintely classified as an MC. “Friends” is not one of them. On this loose inclusion from the versatile ATL artist’s Indigo Child debut, fans are treated to a jet-setting groove that’s more New Wave than rap, pairing the 18-year-old prodigy with Tom Morello on guitar for a meaningful message of peace and togetherness. Kumbaya and all that, you know? (Listen)
84. Janet Jackson — “No Sleeep” – Janet’s comeback track was the kind of music I love listening to while sipping tea at a coffee shop. If I actually sipped tea at coffee shops. (Listen).
85. Chance The Rapper Ft. Saba – “Angels” — The lead single from Chance’s upcoming solo project was debuted in big fashion onstage at the Colbert Show and didn’t disappoint with this one. Showing growth as an artist and a man, the Chicago MC is much more squarely focused on life and his newly found fatherhood, perhaps a foreshadowing of the content over the horizon. (Listen)
86. Joey Purp – “Morgan Freeman” — Mark my words that you will all be talking about Chicago’s Joey Purp by the end of 2016 and this single is a glimpse at why. One half of the duo Leather Corduroys, Purp goes all the way in on “Morgan Freeman” over the iKaz production sets the tone for what should prove to be a very exciting 2016 from what may be the best technical rapper out of the city’s SaveMoney collective. (Listen)
87. Donnie Trumpet and soX – “Just Wait” — My personal favorite track off of this year’s SURF release seemed to sum up the project as a whole. Powered entirely by Donnie’s distorted hornlines, it is easily one of my favorite listens of the year in any genre and truly proves how anyone can find a cross-section within the world of hip-hop. Free of any words too, it’s a rap track through and through that stands to prove where the music can continue to grow moving forward. (Listen)
88. Hurt Everybody Ft. Mick Jenkins and Twista – “Stay Awake” — The most radio-ready track the Hurt Everybody team has produced to date has been in regular rotation since dropping on the group’s 2K47 album earlier this year. Featuring Mick Jenkins and Twista to create a sort of Chicago Voltron, this one finds Supa BWE, Carl and Mulatto all hitting their stride in perfect harmony while finding ways to create an easily digestable, head-nodding single that will make you bring it back a few times before you move on to the next one. (Listen)
89. FKA Twigs – “In Time” — “In Time” is a frantic ballad dripping with FKA’s characteristic complexity. “Complexity” isn’t a euphemism for it being hard to listen to compared to a more traditional R&B pop song — the instrumental break toward the end is one of the most moving things I’ve ever heard On M3LL155X and elsewhere, FKA is making very beautiful music that feels progressive and worthy of its celebrated status around the world. (Listen)
90. Despot – “House Of Bricks” — Don’t let anyone tell you any differently: This is the song of the year. The reclusive New York City rhymer dropped a literal house of bricks on the entire Internet with this track, rapping with the bravado of an in-form veteran as the production from Ratatat’s E*Vax slams the listener’s face against the dashboard. Of course, Despot rarely drops music, but “House Of Bricks” proves that hip-hop’s better when he does. (Listen)
91. Drake and Future – “Big Rings” — Drake absolutely owns this Metro Boomin track from What a Time To Be Alive. He has some fun with the song, celebrating his “really big team” and boasting about his win over Meek Mill. As usual, Future raps about drinking lean and adds in some subliminals — “You just a battle rapper, I’m an official trapper” — but the song belongs to Aubrey. (Listen)
92. TEK.LUN – “All That” — Things sound a little too quiet at first. Then those big ass drums hit and you fall victim to that swing. Have a neck brace handy because you’ll need it by the time this beat’s over. (Listen)
93. Deerhunter – “All The Same” — The opening cut off Deerhunter’s 2015 LP, Fading Frontier, shows just how far the Athens, Ga., group has come since it first burst onto the scene. The psychedelic haze still underscores the song, but Bradford Cox and co. positioned “All The Same” into a roaring, vaguely poppy anthem that helped make the album one of the most enjoyable rock releases of the year. (Listen)
94. Cuz – “Trapaphobia” — Most tales from the hood are considered to be elementary in rhyme styles and wordplay. Cuz’s “Trapaphobia” is an exception to that false perception as he stacks lines on top of lines and does it at a breakneck pace. (Listen)
95. Dreaded Cas Ft. Ventage – “White Clouds” — One of the nicer entries from BEWARE’s Block this year was “White Clouds,” from Dreaded Cas. Treating her own eclectic production like surfboard, the ATL MC uses her flawless, fast flow to stylishly speak on how she strives for more, and never takes anything for granted. Admirable, all around. (Listen)
96. Big Bank Black and B. Green – “Round My Way” — When Big Bank Black decides to make music — though unfortunately it’s not as often as it should be — he always comes through with tough tracks. Featuring fellow DTE member B. Green, “Round My Way” is a rambunctious number that will rile you up before you know it. (Listen)
97. Boosie Badazz Ft. PJ – “All I Know” — Boosie Badazz had to find his footing after returning to the game fresh off a prison bid. Something about “All I Know” sounded like a classic, “I’m gonna get mine no matter what” anthem by the realest since Pac. (Listen)
98. The Knocks Ft. Cam’ron – “New York City” — Killa Cam had a quiet year, with Purple Haze 2 and his joint EP with A-Trak, Federal Reserve, nowhere to be found. Thankfully, he randomly popped up on a single from The Knocks’ debut album. Delivering a warning to anyone coming to Harlem, Cam’ron raps over a Come Home With Me era, cinematic beat. More songs like this, please. (Listen)
99. Big K.R.I.T. Ft. DeLorean And Big Sant – “Got Me Thru” — K.R.I.T.’s always fashioned himself as a by-the-bootstraps MC and making everyman jams is one of the things he does best. On “Got Me Thru,” he enlists DeLo and Sant to add their testimonials to the track and the end result will have you waving your hand in the air like church on a Sunday morning as each MC paint a picture of how they’ve gotten by. (Listen)
100. Travis Scott Ft. Justin Bieber and Young Thug – “Maria, I’m Drunk” — I want a supergroup album from these three. Then a tour. Then a tour documentary. Then a tell-all book. Then a break up. Then a reunion. Then a reunion tour. Then a reality show where they all live together in a senior assisted living complex. After hearing this song, I don’t think I want to ever hear these three separately from one another again. (Listen)