ML3's Top 100 Songs Of 2018
2018 was home to a lot of great music, with most of the industries top artists releasing a project or being a part of someone else's. A lot of upcoming artists and rising stars released singles or their first albums as well. With a plethora of music to go through, I've come up with my personal top 100 songs of the year. Sit back, relax, and enjoy.
100. Finesse (Remix) [feat. Cardi B] x Bruno Mars
Release Date: January 4th, 2018
With the original cut of "Finesse" releasing in late 2016, the official remix to the record came out with a bang to start this year. Cardi B delivers a good rap verse for an intro to the song, and she also appears in the bridge/chorus near the end of the song. Bruno Mars delivers his signature smooth vocals, but nothing different comes from his end on this remix. "Finesse" proved to be a song that could last, as it peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified 2x platinum by the RIAA.
"Cardi B, straight stuntin', can't me nothin', bossed up, and then I changed the game!"
99. Red Flags x Guapdad 4000
Release Date: December 5th, 2018
Guapdad 4000 has made a name for himself in the industry the past year or so, with the core of his fan base in his home region of the Bay Area. On "Red Flags", the Ferragamo Falcon does his signature braggadocios rap over the smooth but eerie beat. The song hasn't charted, but is currently doing very well in the streaming department on all platforms. This record is a good vibe for any time of the day.
"I make niggas uncomfortable, and we ain't even met..."
98. Shady x 10 Shot Cadence
Release Date: October 31st, 2018
10 Shot has been on the come up in 2018. On Halloween, he released his debut album, Luv Games, which featured quite a few good songs to vibe to. I wanna focus on "Shady" in particular, in my opinion its the best song the album. 10 Shot speaks on the woman in his life and also speaks on his relationship with her family. The beat on this song is very smooth, and something anyone can enjoy, and something that many people can relate to.
"I'm just here to stay, baby I ain't playin' games..."
97. Yeaahh x Bow Wow
Release Date: February 22nd, 2018
Bow Wow hasn't made much of an impact on the music game in the last decade, however, he showed that he can still make a banger with "Yeaahh". This short track has a blaring bassline and great lyrics for someone that hasn't been checked for in recent years. This record might have gotten more recognition if Bow Wow wasn't viewed the way he is now, which is for the most part, as a joke, despite his track record for hits and success in the industry.
"Give a fuck about no hater, and I'm all about my paper..."
96. These Days (feat. Yhung T.O.) x E-40
Release Date: August 24th, 2018
E-40 has been around for three decades now, and it doesn't look like he's going anywhere anytime soon. The Bay Area Ambassador linked up with the SOBxRBE upcoming start Yhung T.O. to make it and all-Vallejo affair. This record seems to be a exchanging of the guard between the two Bay Area hip-hop artists, old school to new school.
"I know the Lord chose me to have the vision that most don't see..."
95. At Least I Know (feat. Anderson .Paak) x T.I.
Release Date: October 5th, 2018
T.I. tapped the soulful Anderson .Paak for this feel good track about leaving and/or understanding the fair weather people in your life. Some people aren't going to always be there for you, and that's okay, at least you know.
"How long are you gon' stick around? When the money get low...it's like I never see your pretty smile..."
94. Be Careful x Cardi B
Release Date: March 30th, 2018
This record wasn't about her personal life when it was released, however, it looks pretty similar to it now. Cardi speaks about a dysfunctional relationship due to a cheating partner on this song, and in late 2018, her husband Offset was caught in a cheating scandal. They're currently trying to fix their marriage after a divorce scare.
"You even got me trippin', you got me lookin' in the mirror different...thinkin' I'm flawed because you inconsistent..."
93. PettyWap x Young M.A.
Release Date: July 3rd, 2018
Young M.A. is one of the best rappers in this generation that doesn't have a full project. On this record, she speaks on a past relationship, and also throws shots at haters throughout her rhymes. Who knows when she'll put out a project, but there's no denying her rap ability.
"I'm rich and they fuckin' hate it..."
92. Eyez on C x King Combs
Release Date: April 9th, 2018
Combs makes his first appearance on this list with his controversial song "Eyez On C". The young rapper flows over the late Tupac Shakur's "All Eyez On Me" instrumental. With the East Coast/West Coast beef still in some hip-hop fans minds, they immediately felt disrespected to have Puff Daddy's son spit over a Death Row Records beat. The controversy alone could've gotten the song onto this list, but the fact that Combs really flowed over the track well and gave the world a music video cemented it. He even pays homage to an old Bad Boy rapper, G Dep, with his last line on the track, "change your name to saran, 'cause it's a wrap".
"Bad Boy nigga, ain't a damn thing change..."
91. Ain't Got No Haters (feat. Too $hort) x Ice Cube
Release Date: December 7th, 2018
While I didn't connect with Ice Cube's Everythang's Corrupt as a project, this song really stood out to me. The legendary DJ Pooh produced this record, sampling Delegation's classic 1977 hit "Oh Honey". Cube and Short don't come with hard hitting bars, but more laid back flows, and the song is something that you can enjoy at any time of day. This song has a very 90s vibe, something that almost anyone can enjoy.
"Thirty years later still spittin' flows...gettin' paid to call these bitches hoes..."
90. Thought You Knew x K C
Release Date: November 16th, 2018
This record is a breathe of fresh air into the Bay Area R&B scene, as K C lets the world know that nothing is going to stop her during her rise to the top. Her vocals are intoxicating, and if you haven't heard of her yet, she thought you knew.
"The things they say about me just make me laugh..."
89. Summertime Busta (feat. M3) x MainyMaine
Release Date: July 16th, 2018
On this record, Maine is warning everyone about the dangers on summer relationships, or in this case, situationships. He gives an example for both ends of the spectrum over a nostalgic 90's era beat.
"...you really think you love her, but she just playin' you bruh..."
88. Praise The Lord (Da Shine) [feat. Skepta] x A$AP Rocky
Release Date: May 25th, 2018
A$AP Rocky had a pretty quiet 2018 for the most part, however, "Praise The Lord" made some noise. This is another hip-hop track that rides a flute driven instrumental that makes you wanna bounce as soon as it comes on. Rocky tapped London's Skepta for the feature on this one, and he did pretty well.
"My shades, Dior, my pants, velour, create, explore, expand, conquer..."
87. Player x Lil Deether
Release Date: April 30th, 2018
On this record, Lil D lets the world know that he's gonna keep it player at all times, whether his haters keep hating or not. This is a great record to help you keep going despite the obstacles you face in life.
"It's dough to be made, don't be playin' these games..."
86. Made It (feat. Jay Critch & Rick Ross) x Rich the Kid
Release Date: March 30th, 2018
Rich the Kid has made quite the name for himself recently, with his debut album, The World Is Yours, coming out in early 2018. My favorite track off of the album has to be "Made It". Rich talks about exactly what the title says, making it, despite the haters and impossible odds along the way. Rick Ross and Jay Critch join him on the record to brag about the same thing.
"Broke ass niggas said we wouldn't make it..."
85. Indica Badu (feat. Wiz Khalifa) x Logic
Release Day: March 9th, 2018
Logic made a pretty flawless marijuana anthem with "Indica Badu". He got Wiz Khalifa to deliver a classic verse, got a smooth, almost "I'm already high..." vibe on the production, and then made the song exactly four minutes and twenty seconds long. I don't personally smoke, but I love this track.
"And if you don't know by now...I smoke weed!"
84. Could've Been (feat. Bryson Tiller) x H.E.R.
Release Date: August 3rd, 2018
When it's not meant to be, it hurts. On this record, H.E.R. and Bryson Tiller speak from the perspectives of two people who are in love (or lust), but can't be in a relationship together due to already being in relationships with others. This track is the epitome of rainy day music.
"We could've been...and we try to pretend..."
83. Self Care x Mac Miller
Release Date: July 13th, 2018
Mac Miller's Swimming is a very personal album, but "Self Care" in particular is one of the most in depth. He speaks about his plans to get better, for himself, mainly due to the media's attack on him after the Ariana Grande breakup and subsequent bad mistakes that occurred after it. Mac shows his ability and plan to keep going no matter what, overcoming death itself in the music video...but sadly...we lost the very talented artist on September 7th, 2018...
"Self care...I'm treatin' me right..."
82. Redemption (feat. SZA) x Jay Rock
Release Date: June 15th, 2018
Jay Rock gets very personal on this record as he thinks about how life would've been if he didn't survive his motorcycle crash in 2016. He speaks on righting wrongs in life, and gets help from fellow TDE member SZA on the hook, as well as some background vocals from TDE superstar Kendrick Lamar.
"Instagram's a dead man's best friend. Everybody lookin' for likes, but wasn't likin' you when you needed somethin' to hold on, dealin' with life stress..."
81. Cops Shot The Kid (feat. Kanye West) x Nas
Release Date: June 15th, 2018
Nas and Kanye West get political on this track, both giving their takes on police brutality. Kanye samples Slick Rick's Children's Story" and loops it beautifully, as well as an old Richard Pryor clip to set up the tone for the song in the beginning.
"Let's remind 'em why Kaep kneels..."
80. Yes Indeed (feat. Drake) x Lil Baby
Release Date: May 12th, 2018
Lil Baby's breakout hit song was assisted by Drake, who used a double time flow to coast over the instrumental. Lil Baby himself let the world know he was coming with multiple quotable lyrics on this track that was blasting all summer.
"Brand new whip got no keys..."
79. Thotiana x Blueface
Release Date: February 2nd, 2018
LA's Blueface began to blow up in late 2018, with his biggest hit being "Thotiana". The track is clearly inspired by the Bay Area, as well as the 500dip in the music video that has made its resurgence due to Blueface as well. Time will tell if Blueface is here to stay, but for now, respect his crypn, on the dead locs.
"Bust down thotiana...I wanna see you bust down..."
78. Uptown x The Diplomats
Release Date: November 22nd, 2018
Juelz Santana and Jim Jones link up on this record, showing that The Diplomats can still make good music. In my opinion, this is the best song on their recent album, Diplomatic Ties. The sample of Jack Bruce's 1971 record "Born To Be Blue" blends flawlessly into the instrumental, making a great upcoming summer anthem for 2019.
"I'm P. Diddy with the semi, nigga take that..."
77. Bickenhead x Cardi B
Release Date: April 6th, 2018
This record is a banger, and the Bronx superstar brags about her riches and the continuous influx of money she has, as well as telling others to get their bread up. This is a track that comes on in the club and makes women start acting up on the dance floor, and rightfully so.
"Don't matter if you fuck with me, I get money regardless..."
76. Don't Matter To Me (feat. Michael Jackson) x Drake
Release Date: June 29th, 2018
Drake was able to get clearance and use previously unreleased vocals from the King of Pop on this record. The vocals used are from a 1983 recording session that Jackson did with Paul Anka. The track sis a basic Drake song, as he sings to a woman about her personal issues and how they affect him, and gets assistance from Michael on the hook.
"And you tested my manhood as we yelled at each other..."
75. Senorita (feat. Puff Daddy) x King Combs
Release Date: April 11th, 2018
This track is a musical passing of the torch, as King Combs remixes his father's 1997 track of the same name. Combs even keeps the original chorus that his father did, making it a sort of a modern throwback track. Refreshing to hear such a classic song remade by the next in line for the label.
"I rock Dolce Gabbana and Gucci too, and if you don't believe me, ask Groovy Lue..."
74. This Is America x Childish Gambino
Release Date: May 6th, 2018
This is the most political song that Gambino has ever put out, as he raps about the evils of the country he resides in. There are a plethora of featured adlibs, all from black artists, with a few of them having their own music with political stances. This deep, multilayered record topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in May, and the music video has amassed almost half a billion views.
"Look how I'm livin' now...police be trippin' now..."
73. Going Bad (feat. Drake) x Meek Mill
Release Date: November 30th, 2018
Meek Mill and Drake finally reunited on a track after three year of beefing. The two friends go back and forth over the piano driven beat about women and their enemies. This track has peaked at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 so far, giving Meek his first top 10 hit, and has also just become eligible for gold status.
"You asked to see the boss, so they sent me, dawg..."
72. Made Men x Migos
Release Date: January 26th, 2018
Takeoff takes center stage on this laid back record as he and the his fellow Migos brag about their expensive lifestyles. This is the perfect track to play riding around with your windows down on a warm summer night.
"Don't ask about them whips and them houses and jewelry, 'cause all that shit is paid for..."
71. Blue Tint (feat. Future) x Drake
Release Date: June 29th, 2018
This record is a banger. While the subject matter is about an ex in Drake's life that wants another chance, the beat and delivery make it a hard record. This is definitely something that will be a summer anthem for years to come. (I can only give the 30 second SoundCloud clip of this track, as I couldn't find it in full anywhere else online in good quality and be able to link in the article.)
"She had an attitude in the summer, but she bein' nice again..."
70. Sauce x Ella Mai
Release Date: October 12th, 2018
Ella Mai's rise in the industry has been beautiful to see, with a breath of fresh air in the R&B genre. On this record, Ella describes being brutally honest in an early relationship, which doesn't always end well, but at least the truth is out there.
"Even though I'm good without you, I'm fuckin' with you regardless..."
69. Come Over x The Internet
Release Date: May 30th, 2018
This record is nothing short of a beautiful soothing vibe as Syd serenades her lover to come over and spend the night. The song can make the listener think of a youthful relationship, where the two people are still playing the cat and mouse game. The R&B project that The Internet put out wasn't matched this year with a distant second being H.E.R. and then Ella Mai. Hive Mind is easily my top pure R&B album of 2018.
"Home alone...for the night...I can turn you on...with my dirty mind..."
68. 713 x The Carters
Release Date: June 16th, 2018
Jay-Z and Beyoncé take it back to the early 2000's with this record, showing love to their roots even though they've grown so much since then. This song covers a little bit of everything, from the couple's relationship, love for their respective home areas, as well as black love in general. The chorus also samples Dr. Dre's classic chorus from "Still D.R.E." from 1999, a chorus that Jay-Z wrote.
"America's a motherfucka to us, lock us up, shoot us..."
67. Dangerous (feat. PnB Rock & Jeremih)
Release Date: July 6th, 2018
Meek Mill got into his R&B rap bag on this record to create a summer night anthem. This late night track would eventually be certified gold, two days before Meek's Championships album was released.
"You feel the vibe, it's contagious...look in your eyes, shit is dangerous..."
66. Don't Judge Me x Janelle Monae
Release Date: April 27th, 2018
Janelle Monae recently opened up about her personal life and sexuality, and it's began to reflect in her music, especially on her Grammy nominated album from this past year , Dirty Computer. On this record, Monae speaks on the relationship between herself, the media, and her fans as well. The instrumental and vocal placement gives the song a vibe similar to that of Prince, something difficult to duplicate successfully.
"Let's reintroduce ourselves, from a free point of view..."
65. Let It All Work Out x Lil' Wayne
Release Date: September 28th, 2018
Wayne got really personal on his outro to Tha Carter V. On this record, Weezy talks about his inner demons and success in the industry. He even speaks on his infamous suicide attempt at age 12. This was a deep cut from Wayne that was much needed after such a long album hiatus. (I can only give the 30 second SoundCloud clip of this track, as I couldn't find it in full anywhere else online and be able to link in the article.)
"God came to my side and we talked about it...He sold me another life and he made a prophet..."
64. ATM x J. Cole
Release Date: April 19th, 2018
J. Cole gave the entire industry a message with KOD, and "ATM" was one of the songs that everyone should've tuned into. Cole speaks on the love of money on this record, and the music video shows what that love can lead to. We all need money to survive, but putting it on a pedestal is never going to lead to sustained success.
"Can't take it when you die, but you can't live without it..."
63. Pedigree x Ari Lennox
Release Date: November 13th, 2018
Ari Lennox is going to be special for R&B. The Dreamville singer has a voice very similar to that of Ms. Erykah Badu, and this song is a perfect example of that. On this short track (only 1:58), speaks on her night life, and even gives a shout out to one of her musical influences, the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
"Oh baby won't you kiss me there...make me forget how you don't care..."
62. Bonjour x Nas
Release Date: June 15th, 2018
Nas, Kanye production, and the world famous Tony Williams. Similar to 2005's "We Major", the three make you nod your head to the soulful instrumental while Nas lyrically slices up everything Kanye's beat throws at him. Tony Williams gives a silky smooth chorus, perfectly packaging it all together.
"All these beautiful places, but the cities be poor...you wealthy when your kid's upbringin' better than yours..."
61. Off Deez (feat. J. Cole) x JID
Release Date: November 6th, 2018
J. Cole made a great decision by signing JID to his Dreamville label. The young rapper has drawn comparisons to Kendrick Lamar due to his voice changing ability, a very unique skill. On "Off Deez", JID and Cole trade bars over the fast paced instrumental.
"East Atlanta playboy, don't got much to say boy..."
60. No Stylist (feat. Drake) x French Montana
Release Date: September 20th, 2018
This record was leaked before it's official release, due to Drake's Kanye diss on his feature verse. However, when the full track released, it wasn't all directed at Kanye West as previously believed. Drake threw his shot, but the song is more of an upbeat but eerie vibe, and the music video is full of celebrity cameos.
"Keep it a g, I told her don't wear no 350s 'round me."
59. Feels Like Summer x Childish Gambino
Release Date: July 11th, 2018
Childish Gambino shows off his vocal skills with this soothing track. While the track is beautiful itself, the music video elevates it to another level, with cameos from just about everyone in the industry that you can think of. Well done, Mr. Glover.
"Every day gets hotter than the one before..."
58. BLACK EFFECT x The Carters
Release Date: June 16th, 2018
Unapologetically black. Jay-Z and Beyoncé let the world know how much they love their blackness and their status as a symbol of black wealth. This is such a beautiful track, and was a summer anthem on my playlists this year for sure. Good on any MLK boulevard.
"I like purple and purple rain...tryin' to put red and blue together, bitch, that's on gang..."
57. My Boy (feat. J. Cole) [Freestyle] x Wale
Release Date: September 14th, 2018
This record is all bars. Wale and Cole link up just like they used to early in their careers, cutting up the instrumental back and forth. This was very refreshing for fans of Wale and J. Cole's early work together earlier this decade. Hopefully more is in store in 2019 for this talented rap duo.
"Yeah, stepped in the building with my vibe on a million...slide on the beat like my God, I'm so brilliant..."
56. Taste (feat. Offset) x Tyga
Release Date: May 16th, 2018
Tyga made a career resurgence in 2018 by going back to his roots, making summer anthems and hits for the club scene. The catchy beat and lyrics of "Taste" would land Tyga a top 10 hit, peaking at #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
"Yeah that's cool, but he ain't like me..."
55. Not A Love Song (feat. Ma$e) x Eric Bellinger
Release Date: April 5th, 2018
Eric Bellinger's Eazy Call is one of the catchier albums of the past year, and "Not A Love Song" is probably the catchiest song on the album. The bouncy beat and a smooth verse from the rap icon Ma$e make a good summer anthem for this year, Eric Bellinger never disappoints. This gon' be your favorite song.
"This that...tell you what I want and then I get it..."
54. New Patek x Lil Uzi Vert
Release Date: September 18th, 2018
Uzi has been teasing his upcoming album Eternal Atake for a while now, which is set to drop in 2019. "New Patek" was the promotional single, and the track would make waves upon release, with Uzi flowing for a over 5 minutes, much longer than the normal time for a Lil Uzi song.
"New Patek on my wrist...white diamonds, them shits hit pink..."
53. Look Alive (feat. Drake) x BlocBoy JB
Release Date: February 8th, 2018
The beginning of 2018 had a lot of bangers come out, and "Look Alive" was the first of many Drake features in 2018. This hard hitting track would go on to peak at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and eventually be certified platinum.
"Pushed me to the edge, so it really ain't my mothafuckin' fault man..."
52. Uproar (feat. Swizz Beatz) x Lil' Wayne
Release Date: September 28th, 2018
Lil' Wayne's masterpiece of an album contains a few homage paying records, and "Uproar" paid homage to an old Bad Boy Records anthem. The Swizz Beatz produced record directly samples G Dep's classic "Special Delivery", and the infectious instrumental took the world by storm, with New York leading the way of bringing the Harlem shake back to prominence.
"Five, four, three, two, I let one go, bow! Get the fuck though, I don't bluff bro..."
51. ZEZE (feat. Travis Scott & Offset)
Release Date: October 12th, 2018
The highly anticipated single from Kodak lived up to it's expectations upon release, with it's contagious beat taking the industry by storm for a short while. This is a song I expect to blow up again for summer parties in 2019, even though it's already peaked at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
"Self-made, I don't owe a nigga nann favor..."
50. Stay Down Forever x Lil Deether
Release Date: November 15th, 2018
This single released after the untimely loss of the upcoming rap star. On this record, Deether speaks on his personal life and trying to move on, as well as speaking to a woman and asking her if she’s gonna stay around. All of Lil Deether’s true fans are going to stay down forever.
“Young black in an expensive car will have them real annoyed..."
49. East Atlanta Love Letter (feat. Future) x 6lack
Release Date: September 14th, 2018
6lack taps the Atlanta trap icon to join him on this smooth late night anthem. The two go back and forth crooning over this piano based instrumental, talking to past lovers.
"...you would be searching far and wide but you wouldn't want another..."
48. Reminisce x KD The Poet
Release Date: November 28th, 2018
KD speaks to the women of his past on this smooth record. His nonstop flow with the deep-cutting lyrics take the listener on a flashback trip and make them truly think about their own past relationships. A truly beautiful song, pure poetry.
"...and now I'm stuck searchin' for you in every woman that I see..."
47. Tints (feat. Kendrick Lamar) x Anderson .Paak
Release Date: October 4th, 2018
"Tints" was Oxnard's first single, as Anderson .Paak speaks about keeping to himself and handling business while keeping others out of it, hence needing "tints". .Paak also speaks on trying to keep some of his life personal, while being heavily in the spotlight. This is a fun track with a great message of the good (and bad, as shown in the music video) of the things you keep out of the public eye. Kendrick is the perfect addition to this record, as he brags about his lifestyle and his own difficulty balancing fame and private life. Some of his bars are a nod to fellow legend Andre 3000, using a similar play on words from his intro on "Return of the G", from Outkast's classic album, Aquemini.
"I got way too much to lose, so roll your window up real quick..."
46. Championships x Meek Mill
Release Date: November 30th, 2018
Meek Mill's Championships is a candidate for album of the year in my opinion, though I think that it was released too late for Grammy consideration this year. The title track is a great hip-hop song, a beautiful beat, hard bars, and a good message. Meek Mill's growth this year has been a wonderful thing to see.
"We had to beat the streets, beat the system, beat racism, beat poverty...and now we made it through all that...we at the championship..."
45. Story Of Adidon x Pusha T
Release Date: May 29th, 2018
It's not everyday that Drake is handed an L in a rap beef, but Pusha T made sure that he did just that with "The Story of Adidon". Push's scathing response to Drake's "Duppy Freestyle" exposed his secret son, baby mother, and the cover art even exposed a photoshoot Drake did in blackface in the early 2000s. The reason behind Drake's old photoshoot wasn't even important in the context of the diss, because just seeing it had such shock value. A diss this well thought out and executed had to make this list.
"A baby's involved, it's deeper than rap..."
44. SAD! x Xxxtentacion
Release Date: March 2nd, 2018
X makes his only appearance on this list with his biggest hit, "SAD!". The late star spoke about the pain of losing a loved one on this record, and the music video shows him killing off his old persona. Sadly, the artist was murdered in his home state while setting up a charity event. After his death, "SAD!" would go on to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
"Who am I? Someone that's afraid to let go..."
43. Dedication (feat. Kendrick Lamar) x Nipsey Hussle
Release Date: February 13th, 2018
This was Nip's lead single for Victory Lap, and getting a local icon to join him on the track made it a moment. On this record, the two LA hip-hop stars rap back and forth about their rises to fame from their respective Los Angeles areas.
“Royalties, publishing, plus I own masters. I'll be damned if I slave for some white crackers..."
42. All The Stars x Kendrick Lamar & SZA
Release Date: January 4th, 2018
TDE stars join forces for the first single from the Black Panther soundtrack, as Kendrick Lamar and SZA deliver a beautiful song. The intoxicating beat and SZA’s vocals envelope the listener, and Kendrick’s slick bars keep the listener on their toes.
"Confrontation ain’t nothin’ new to me...”
41. After Dark (feat. Static Major & Ty Dolla $ign) x Drake
Release Date: June 29th, 2018
This is one of the smoothest R&B tracks of the year. This song is very special, as it features the late Static Major, who worked with Lil' Wayne on his 2008 hit, "Lollipop". Drake croons over the soft, bass driven instrumental, and is joined by LA's own Ty Dolla $ign. The end of the song pays homage to Drake's hometown area, as a local radio station, 93.7 WBLK, is sampled. (I can only give the 30 second SoundCloud clip of this track, as I couldn't find it in full anywhere else online and be able to link in the article.)
"You can put your phone down, you're gonna need two hands..."
40. The West (Free Greedo) [feat. King Combs & 03 Greedo] x Kai Ca$h
Release Date: July 16th, 2018
CYN member Kai Ca$h made his breakthrough with this single. The summer anthem has racked up over 1 million plays on every streaming service and was even one of the song that Shiggy danced to this year. Bad Boy's future relies on King Combs and Kai Ca$h, and if this is the future in store, Bad Boy Records will be just fine.
"On my bullshit like Jordan is..."
39. FlEXiBle (feat. Chris Brown & Lil Baby) x Tory Lanez
Release Date: October 26th, 2018
Tory Lanez released a beautiful project with LoVE me NOw, and the record "FlEXiBle" cracks the top 40 for this list. The upbeat R&B instrumental serves perfectly for Tory and Chris Brown, as they sing smoothly as if their voices were a part of the beat itself. Upcoming hip-hop star Lil Baby also delivers a short feature verse.
"I just wanna be the one you textin'..."
38. a lot (feat. J. Cole) x 21 Savage
Release Date: December 21st, 2018
21 Savage has become a star in the hip-hop world over the last couple of years, and his latest project, I am > I was, didn't disappoint. The standout track on the album was the intro, and over the beautifully sampled 1971 track "I Love You" by East of Underground, 21 flows the way he's known to flow, but on this song it just feels refreshing, like it’s a new chapter for the artist. J. Cole also drops gems in his surprise feature. "a lot" is one of 2018's best album intros in my opinion, the difference that a good soul sample can make.
"How many people done doubted you? A lot."
37. Double Up (feat. Belly & DOM KENNEDY) x Nipsey Hussle
Release Date: February 16th, 2018
Nipsey Hussle released a Grammy nominated album this year, and a few songs from Victory Lap made this top 100 list. On "Double Up", Nip is joined by Belly and fellow LA rapper Dom Kennedy over the smooth instrumental. This song is a great vibe, and the music video brings it all to life.
"Lord knows it's a cold game...switched up on you hoes mane..."
36. Don't Trust No (feat. Philthy Rich, Too $hort, & Serius Jones) x Mistah F.A.B.
Release Date: August 24th, 2018
The King of Oakland and the Prince of Thizz link up with fellow Bay Area royalty for this banger. Over a sample of SOBxRBE's "Anti", the group of emcees explain why they don't trust women & brag about their success. This record is sure to be a Bay Area summer anthem for years to come.
"I used to love a bitch, I used to trust a bitch, heart got broke, won't do that with another bitch..."
35. Money x Cardi B
Release Date: October 23rd, 2018
Cardi B could've easily not released any new music in 2018 after her album Invasion Of Privacy, but she decided to keep going and released "Money", the first single to her sophomore album. Cardi lets the world know what's most important to her on this anthem.
"...nothin in this world that I love more than checks..."
34. Since 99 x Lil Deether
Release Date: September 23rd, 2018
Lil Deether's final appearance on my top 100 comes with his homage-paying record to Mac Dre. The showcase of knowledge of his home region is refreshing from a young artist. Deether shined on this track, something difficult to achieve over such an iconic instrumental. Long Live Deether.
"A broke bitch dream? I'm livin' proof."
33. Big Shot (feat. Travis Scott) x Kendrick Lamar
Release Date: February 9th, 2018
Welcome to Wakanda. This track is what it would feel like to enter to fictional African kingdom, as K. Dot and Travis trade bars about the lifestyle of being rich and famous. The flutes on this beat make you wanna dance, as the record is an all-around fun collaboration between the two A-list artists.
"Why you emotional? Ah! Bitch you emotional!"
32. NICE (feat. Pharrell) x The Carters
Released Date: June 16th, 2018
This record is a perfect example of why Jay-Z is a jack of all trades when it comes to rap. He flows flawlessly over this Pharrell produced beat on double time and doesn't miss. Beyoncé even gives a great rap verse and Pharrell assists later on in the track, one of the best songs, if not the best song, on Everything Is Love.
"I ain't never seen a ceiling in my whole life, that's word to Blue!"
31. Smile (Living My Best Life) [feat. Snoop Dogg & Ball Greezy] x Lil Duval
Release Date: July 3rd, 2018
Lil Duval teamed up with Snoop Dogg and Ball Greezy for an anthem that will last for a long time. . "Smile" is basically the adult version of Pharrell's "Happy", and it shows whenever you turn it on. I haven't found anyone who doesn't like this song, and that alone is enough to get on this list.
"I ain't goin' back and forth with you niggas!"
30. King's Dead (feat. Kendrick Lamar & Future) x Jay Rock
Release Date: January 11th, 2018
Kendrick Lamar was given the honor of executive producing the soundtrack to Black Panther, and he didn't disappoint in the album he put together. For the first single, he got Jay Rock and Future together for "King's Dead", and even hopped on the track himself. The bars are good on this record, even though Future takes away from the seriousness with his verse while paying homage to Three Six Mafia.
"Miss me with that bullshit..."
29. Blue Laces 2 x Nipsey Hussle
Release Date: February 16th, 2018
"Blue Laces 2" is the best track on Victory Lap in my opinion. The beat sounds like a night in downtown Los Angeles, smooth like a ride in a drop top. Nipsey's verses are solid, and his storytelling is immaculate when he speaks about an old shootout. An all around flawless, well done Nip.
"I flashed back on that shootout on the beach..."
28. Call Out My Name x The Weeknd
Release Date: March 30th, 2018
A broken hearted Abel leads to R&B masterpieces, and "Call Out My Name" is a record that falls into that category. A breakup with Selena Gomez is the main inspiration for this track, as The Weeknd croons and pours out his emotions for just about 4 straight minutes.
"Falling for you was my mistake..."
27. Paramedic! (feat. Kendrick Lamar) x SOBxRBE
Release Date: February 9th, 2018
This record is from the soundtrack to the Black Panther film, taking the perspective of the villain, Erik Killmonger. Kendrick went and tapped the upcoming Bay Area rap group SOBxRBE to handle the track, and they killed it. The bars are there, the beat is ridiculous, and if you didn't hit a thizz face to this, what were you really doing all year?
"One fist in the air, I ain't finna put my hands up."
26. BIG BANK (feat. 2 Chainz, Big Sean & Nicki Minaj) x YG
Release Date: May 25th, 2018
YG shows his love for the Bay Area with this track, with not only the vibes of the song, but the music video as well. The features on this song are all good as well, as the group of rappers have fun over the West coast anthem.
"I could buy a Bentley, don't talk to me..."
25. Love You Better (feat. Chris Brown) x King Combs
Release Date: February 9th, 2018
The young Bad Boy's single samples the beat from the 1996 classic "Touch Me Tease Me" by Case. The slow lackadaisical rap style that Ma$e perfected is used flawlessly by Combs, as the record seems to be a mix between Ma$e's "What You Want" and Jay-Z's "Song Cry". This "R&B rap" was needed in the hip-hop world from Bad Boy, bringing them back into the limelight in the lane of rap that they owned at one point. Even the music video is a remake to Biggie's classic 1995 remix of "One More Chance".
"So why you wanna act like that? Like a nigga never had yo back...?"
24. Wow Freestyle (feat. Kendrick Lamar) x Jay Rock
Release Date: June 15th, 2018
Jay Rock makes his final appearance on this list in the top 25 with his Kendrick Lamar assisted "Wow Freestyle". The two trade bars back and forth like they used to back in the early days of Top Dawg Entertainment, a beautiful thing to hear for the labels longtime fans.
"Can we get it how we used to get it?"
23. 1985 (Intro to "The Fall Off") x J. Cole
Release Date: April 20th, 2018
J. Cole's KOD was a huge teaching moment, from Cole to the industry. He spoke about many aspects that lead to artists' downfalls on this album, but on "1985" he went more direct and spoke to the newest generation of rap. He clearly explained how the young artists are doing things to make money, and where this mindset will put them in the future.
"In five years, you gon' be on Love & Hip-Hop, nigga..."
22. APESHIT x The Carters
Release Date: June 16th, 2018
The Carters surprise released their debut collaboration album at the beginning of the summer. On "APESHIT", the duo tapped Quavo for adlibs on the fast paced, trap influenced track. Hov and Beyoncé drop bars all over this record, they can make a crowd go apeshit.
"I said no to the Super Bowl. You need me, I don't need you."
21. Stir Fry x Migos
Release Date: December 20th, 2017
This is the only song that was technically released in 2017 on this list, but one that I had to include it because it was the start of the Migos' continued dominance as a rap group. The beat is crazy, and the adlibs are perfectly placed (as most are on a Migos record, nothing new), and it's a fun song as well. This song is really hard to sit still to, and this was proven with a peak at #8 on the Billboard Hot 100.
"Dance with my dogs in the nighttime..."
20. If You Know You Know x Pusha T
Release Date: May 25th, 2018
I begin the top 20 with this song simply due to the fact that Push had a fantastic year. On this record, he speaks on being at the top of the trap game, his drug dealing past and the comparison to his present and future as a rap legend/star. Nothing but bars came from Pusha this year, he has a right to brag about whatever he wants to brag about.
"These ain't the same type of hits boy..."
19. Kevin's Heart x J. Cole
Release Date: April 20th, 2018
J. Cole used his brilliant flow to describe Kevin Hart's situation in this smooth, laid back, yet telling record. Cole describes the mind of a man that has everything, and the struggles that men in that position go through. Kevin Hart is used as an example due to the fact that he's fallen short in this situation times before. A great track that gives you a new perspective on the male mind, without making it seem like the situation is okay, because that's not the case. However, everyone messes up sometimes, it's about how you grow and learn from those events.
"Love wouldn't lie like I lie, and it's wild..."
18. It Gets Better (With Time) x The Internet
Release Date: July 20th, 2018
Syd delivers Aaliyah-esque vocals over this watery beat, a combination that can calm just about any listener. The spoken word on this record also encourages you to keep going. A beautiful and soothing track that will last years to come from The Internet's flawless album, Hive Mind.
"Tell me what's goin' on...probably been there before..."
17. Powerglide (feat. Juicy J) x Rae Sremmurd
Release Date: March 1st, 2018
This song is a party. Swae Lee's contagious vocals along with the fast paced beat make it hard to not dance. Slim Jxmmi and Juicy J drop braggadocios bars, and the fun doesn't stop until the beat goes off.
"Can you believe every night we do this?"
16. 24/7 (feat. Ella Mai) x Meek Mill
Release Date: November 30th, 2018
Meek Mill has been underrated in the "R&B rap" category for a while now, and this track is a perfect example of what he's capable of. Over a flawless sample of Beyoncé's "Me, Myself, & I", Ella Mai delivers a beautiful and catchy chorus that's reminiscent of the chorus on the classic track "Saturday Love". Meek Mill delivers two great verses, and Ella's short verse and outro are a perfect wrap up to a crossover hit.
"You forever in my heart...I won't forget about you..."
15. Mona Lisa (feat. Kendrick Lamar) x Lil' Wayne
Release Date: September 28th, 2018
Wayne and K. Dot, it's hard to think of a duo that could give you more bars. The two give stories about scandalous women, with Wayne speaking on the ones he uses to rob the rich, while Kendrick speaks from the perspective of a man who's with a woman cheating on him with Wayne himself. The vivid storytelling and anticipation for the collaboration would lead to a peak at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
"That bitch ain't no angel, I treat her halo like a frisbee..."
14. Walk It Talk It (feat. Drake) x Migos
Release Date: January 26th, 2018
Migos had another huge year with the release of Culture II, and "Walk It Talk It" was a huge hit. This was the full trio's first collaboration with Drake since 2013's remix to "Versace", and the four didn't disappoint. This record was a banger for most of the year, and the music video paid homage to the iconic Soul Train.
"That's my sauce, where you find it?"
13. Complicated x KD The Poet
Release Date: February 26th, 2018
On his highest charting track on my list, KD slows effortlessly over a beautiful sample of Janet Jackson's classic "I Get Lonely". On this record, KD speaks about the complications of love, and the tendencies that people have during relationships. A very relatable track, it makes you truly think about how we act when we're in love, or even think about loving someone.
"Matter of fact they told me love was overrated, but I never would've thought this shit could get this complicated..."
12. Nice For What x Drake
Release Date: April 6th, 2018
Drake showed love to the women with this beautiful track. Produced by Murda Beatz, a sample from Lauryn Hill's "Ex-Factor" is taken and flipped into a bounce beat, classic Cash Money Records style. Drake doesn't just stop with the love for women with the track, the music video features cameos from many of the industry's prominent female figures.
"...but it's alright, it's a short life..."
11. In My Feelings x Drake
Release Date: June 29th, 2018
Drake comes in again at #11 with the New Orleans influenced record, "In My Feelings". The record was good from its release, but it blew up after Instagram comedian Shiggy did a dance to it and went viral. The song would eventually land at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and get Drake a Grammy nomination. It's crazy how things work these days, social media can change people's lives.
"Kiki...do you love me?"
10. 2009 x Mac Miller
Release Date: August 3rd, 2018
Sadly, we lost the multitalented Mac Miller in 2018. He released his last album, Swimming, in August, and it contained this very touching and in depth record. "2009" shows Mac's growth as an artist, something that he did very well over the course of his career, as well as his growth as a man. Every piece of this record speaks to you if you just listen, showing listeners that we'll never get another Mac Miller.
"Now when it gets hard...I don't panic, I don't sound the alarm...''
9. Gonna Love Me (Remix) [feat. Ghostface Killah, Method Man, & Raekwon] x Teyana Taylor
Release Date: October 19th, 2018
Teyana Taylor is one of the most talented women in Hip-hop and R&B right now, and she showed it on this record. The original version was already great, but collaborating with members of the Wu-Tang Clan elevated this record to another level. The music video is also flawless, harking back to the early days of Bad Boy Records. The music video is also fittingly in memory of the late Kim Porter.
"I wanna spend my nights with you...my life with you..."
8. Bad Girl (feat. TreyLivin) x King Combs
Release Date: April 11th, 2018
This record was everything that Bad Boy Records had been missing since the early 2000s. C3 speaks to the women directly on this track, from the male perspective, something that Ma$e did very well in his heyday. Combs' fellow CYN member Trey Livin' delivers the hook with a direct sample of the first verse and chorus from Bad Boy's classic "Only You" by 112. As his last verse comes to a close, King Combs ends it and chants in the same manner that Lil' Kim did on Mary J. Blige's classic "I Can Love You" in 1997.
"Please don't take your love away..."
7. What's Free (feat. Rick Ross & Jay-Z) x Meek Mill
Release Date: November 30th, 2018
Meek Mill teamed up with MMG executive Rick Ross and the iconic Jay-Z for a track that will most likely become timeless. Rick Ross and Meek both delivered great verses, but Jay-Z stole the show. Over the Biggie sampled instrumental (sampled of B.I.G.'s "What's Beef", hence the title of this track), Jigga spoke on Kanye, black history, and more. Jay-Z proved once again that he's still a top tier rap artist with a candidate for verse of the year.
"In the land of the free where the blacks enslaved...3/5 of a man I believe is the phrase..."
6. Anywhere (feat. Snoop Dogg & the Last Artful Dodgr) x Anderson .Paak
Release Date: November 16th, 2018
This record pays homage to the G-Funk era as well as 90s R&B, as Snoop Dogg raps about his early days on his feature verse and Anderson .Paak gives a shoutout to as many R&B groups as possible through his verse over this super smooth west coast beat. The icing on the cake is the song's flawless sample of One Way's "Cutie Pie" in the chorus.
"We'll get back to all that ghetto shit we like..."
5. Start This Shit Off Right (feat. Ashanti & Mack Maine) x Lil' Wayne
Release Date: September 28th, 2018
Lil' Wayne takes it back with this record. Mannie Fresh samples the baseline from Ma$e's classic record, "The Player Way", and Wayne gets assistance from Mack Maine for the chorus, and Ashanti lends vocals well. This track has Tha Carter II vibes, and shows that even though Wayne is now separate from Cash Money Records in business, he will always be a Cash Money Millionaire.
"I fucked around and made bunch of fuck around money..."
4. Trip x Ella Mai
Release Date: August 3rd, 2018
This track lead to so much controversy after the remix by Jacquees, however, in my opinion, Ella Mai's version is not only better, it's an anthem for the year. This single would eventually peak at #11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and become certified platinum by the RIAA. Ella Mai has done all but cement herself among the major faces of R&B with her very successful 2018. So much for Jacquees having the better version...
"My bad, my bad for trippin' on you..."
3. I Like It (feat. Bad Bunny & J Balvin) x Cardi B
Release Date: May 25th, 2018
Cardi B continued her reign as the biggest female artist in hip-hop this year with multiple hit songs on this list, but the best one in my opinion is "I Like It". The song samples two hits from the legend Pete Rodriguez ,"I Like It Like That (A Mi Me Gusta Asi)" (1966) and "Oh That's Nice" (1967). The songs are blended and given a strong bass to make a flawless instrumental. Cardi flaunts a lot on this song, rightfully so, and Bad Bunny also flexes heavily with his Spanglish verse.
"They call me Cardi Bardi, banging body, Spicy mami, hot tamale..."
2. Sicko Mode (feat. Drake) x Travis Scott
Release Date: August 3rd, 2018
Travis Scott's Astroworld was one of the year's best albums, living up to the hype before it was released. "Sicko Mode" was the undisputed highlight of the album however, and eventually peaked at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. This gave Travis his first #1 hit, and the record is now 4x platinum and counting. The song contains 3 different elements, blended together perfectly with well placed features from Drake, as well as Swae Lee for adlibs, creating a pretty flawless record.
"This shit way too formal, y'all know I don't follow suit..."
1. God's Plan x Drake
Release Date: January 19th, 2018
Drake was all over this list, and it's only fitting that he tops the list with his biggest hit record. "God's Plan" ruled the airwaves from the moment it was released, as it sat at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 11 straight weeks, making Drake the first male artist with two 10 week chart toppers (One Dance spent 10 weeks on the top of the charts in 2016).
"I don’t wanna die for them to miss me..."
Here's to more great music in 2019!
