30 Best 80s Rap Songs You Must Listen

Thank you for joining us on our page, readers! Today we will be looking at 80s rap songs. Some of the 80s rap music features are: 

1. Sampling: 80s rap music heavily relied on sampling
2. Beatboxing: Beatboxers added a human touch to the beats, enhancing the overall rhythmic experience.
3. Turntablism: This added a dynamic and interactive aspect to the music.
4. Storytelling: This style of lyricism provided a compelling and relatable connection with the audience.
5. Social and Political Commentary: Artists used their music as a platform to address issues like racism, poverty, and inequality, making a significant impact on listeners.

Furthermore, unique fashion, call-and-response, vocal delivery and flow, regional styles, and DJ Drops are the other features of the 80s rap scene. 

READ MORE – 60 Best 2000s Rap Songs That Will Bring Back Your Memories

Do you know why 80s rap songs became popular? 

The popularity of 80s rap songs can be attributed to several key factors that made them resonate with a wide audience during that decade. First and foremost, the emergence of rap music provided a fresh and innovative sound compared to other genres of the time. It represented the voice of urban youth, expressing their experiences, struggles, and aspirations in a raw and relatable manner.

The lyrics of 80s music often addressed social and political issues, such as poverty, racism, and inequality, which struck a chord with many listeners. The songs served as a powerful form of self-expression for marginalised communities, giving them a platform to voice their concerns and demand change.

Additionally, the catchy beats and infectious rhythms of 80s music made them highly danceable and enjoyable, drawing in audiences from diverse backgrounds. The use of sampling and innovative production techniques also contributed to their appeal.

Moreover, the rise of music videos in the 80s further boosted the popularity of rap songs. Visual storytelling through music videos allowed artists to showcase their personalities and creativity, creating a stronger connection with their fans.

Furthermore, the emergence of iconic rap artists and groups like Run-D.M.C., LL Cool J, Beastie Boys, and Public Enemy played a crucial role in elevating the genre’s popularity. Their unique styles, fashion, and personas became influential cultural symbols, shaping the music and fashion landscape of the decade.

READ MORE – 31 Best Sad Rap Songs You Must Listen

However, the 80s was a pivotal era for developing rap music. These songs played a significant role in shaping the genre’s trajectory.

1- “Rapper’s Delight” by Sugarhill Gang (1979) 

One of the first commercially successful rap songs, it helped popularise the genre.

2- “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five (1982) 

An iconic social commentary on life in the inner city.

3- “Walk This Way” by Run-DMC feat. Aerosmith (1986)

A groundbreaking rap-rock collaboration.

4- “Fight the Power” by Public Enemy (1989)

An influential anthem for social and political activism.

5- “Planet Rock” by Afrika Bambaataa & The Soul Sonic Force (1982) 

A pioneering electro-funk rap track.

6- “Push It” by Salt-N-Pepa (1987)

Helped propel female rappers to the forefront of the genre.

7- “Paid in Full” by Eric B. & Rakim (1987) 

Known for its innovative lyricism and sampling.

8- “I Need Love” by LL Cool J (1987)

A groundbreaking rap ballad.

9- “Parents Just Don’t Understand” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince (1988)

A humorous and relatable take on parent-teen relationships.

10- “My Adidas” by Run-DMC (1986) 

Celebrated the popularisation of hip-hop fashion.

11- “The Breaks” by Kurtis Blow (1980) 

One of the first rap songs to receive widespread mainstream attention.

12- “White Lines (Don’t Don’t Do It)” by Grandmaster Flash and Melle Mel (1983) – 

An anti-drug song with a catchy beat.

13- “Buffalo Gals” by Malcolm McLaren (1982) 

Influential in bringing hip-hop culture to the UK.

14- “It’s Like That” by Run-DMC (1983) 

Helped establish Run-DMC’s presence in the rap scene.

15- “Rockit” by Herbie Hancock (1983) 

A groundbreaking fusion of jazz and hip-hop.

16- “La Di Da Di” by Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick (1985) 

Known for its memorable beatboxing and storytelling.

17- “Funky Cold Medina” by Tone Lōc (1989) 

A humorous rap track with catchy hooks.

18- “Children’s Story” by Slick Rick (1988) 

A cautionary tale narrated in a captivating storytelling style.

19- “Jam On It” by Newcleus (1984) 

A classic electro-rap party anthem.

20- “Nuthin’ But a ‘G’ Thang” by Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Doggy Dogg (1992) 

Released late ’92, but its G-funk sound helped define the 80s rap style.

21- “Girls Ain’t Nothing But Trouble” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince (1986) 

One of the duo’s early hits.

22- “Don’t Believe the Hype” by Public Enemy (1988) 

A politically charged track challenging media misinformation.

23- “Wild Wild West” by Kool Moe Dee (1988) 

 Inspired by the 1965 film “Wild Wild West.”

24- “I Can’t Live Without My Radio” by LL Cool J (1985) 

An ode to LL’s love for his boombox.

25- “Top Billin'” by Audio Two (1988) 

It is A classic Golden Age rap track.

26- “Ain’t No Half-Steppin'” by Big Daddy Kane (1988) 

Known for its intricate rhyme schemes.

27- “Self-Destruction” by The Stop the Violence Movement (1989) 

A collaboration by multiple artists promoting anti-violence.

28- “Treat ‘Em Right” by Chubb Rock (1989) 

Known for its catchy chorus and danceable beat.

29- “Rebel Without a Pause” by Public Enemy (1987) 

An energetic and politically charged rap anthem.

30- “Push It” by Salt-N-Pepa (1987) 

A significant hit that helped pave the way for female rappers.