A countless number of mainstream hits were released in 1996, an extremely stacked year in music. The casual Hip-Hop fan had a great deal of major singles to listen to, but true Hip-Hop heads also know that there were a decent amount of forgotten-about records that were also very influential. We’ve compiled a list of ten great Hip-Hop records that are often forgotten about, in no particular order.
10. Goodie Mob - “Blood”
This record is amazing because it blends lyricism and consciousness seamlessly. Goodie Mob uses this record as an opportunity to promote critical thinking in regards to violence in communities. They also have amazing imagery, describing what they see in the ghetto every day. Listeners are asked to truly reconsider before shedding anyone’s blood.
9. Ain’t Nuthin 2 It - MC Eiht
This track is amazing due to its cool, laid back G-funk beat coinciding with MC Eiht’s signature flow. He tells his story in a unique way, detailing his early days of gangbanging and the reckless choices that followed. Although the song’s hook is a bit simple, it's easy to rock to and inspires all of us to master our C-walk.
8. Cashmere Thoughts - Jay-Z
Although Reasonable Doubt is arguably Jay-Z’s most prolific album, many people don't know much about the this song. The album spawned a number of singles, but surprisingly this record is often overlooked by the casual listener. Featuring a simple, looping beat, listeners are able to hear HOV clearly articulate all of his braggadocious banter about his wealth, both material and personal. Anyone that's a fan of traditional East Coast rap loves his delivery and style on this track.
7. What They Do - The Roots
This smooth cut combines elements of Hip-Hop and R&B with effortless, enigmatic flows. This song mainly focuses on authenticity in the rap game and whether or not artists are truly representing the craft. If there were ever a perfect sung hook to a rap song, this song would claim it.
6. Motherless Child - Ghostface Killah
This record has a strange juxtaposition to it that ends up working rather well. While the slow sung hook is full of an energy of its own, Ghostface’s aggressive, quick flow brings a completely different level of attitude. With his rapid-fire flow, Ghostface is able to vividly paint us a picture of a young hustler’s rise and untimely fall.
5. It’s O.K. - Eminem
From the debut album Infinite, “It’s O.K.” is a jarringly different style of rap than what we’ve come to know and love from Eminem. Considerably more radio-friendly and upbeat, this record clearly represents Eminem at a place in his life where he is still rather youthful and optimistic. It’s impossible to hear this song and not feel at least a little inspired.
4. Crush on You - Lil Kim
Since Lil’ Kim has left the spotlight and moved more towards obscurity in the music industry, it's easy to forget all she's accomplished. One the first female rappers to truly own her sexuality and monetize the appeal, this song is the perfect example of her skill as a lyricist. She makes a record that is fun for both men and women to listen to, a rare feat in the rap game at the time. Kim sets the standard for other rappers of her time, and very few have filled her shoes ever since.
3. Firewater - Big Pun
This is a very important record due to its context. Big Pun was the first Latino rapper to platinum, and “Firewater” was one of the first records he ever released, beginning his career. Many fans of Hip-Hop today fail to realize how skilled Pun was as a rapper, as well as how much he's influenced other Latino rappers, such as Fat Joe. Many people where Pun’s place in Hip-Hop history would be if he were still alive today.
2. Gettin’ It - Too Short
This record differs slightly from the wild, controversial style of music Too Short had become known for over time. Laid over a gallant, methodical beat, Too Short chooses to speak on the issues of getting money and staying successful in the hood, rather than his typical subject matter of pimping women and sexual activities. Not many people will even remember that Too Short decided to switch things up for a moment.
1.Where da Killaz Hang - Three 6 Mafia
Three 6 Mafia had an undeniable impact on the sound and trajectory of Southern Hip-Hop, especially crunk music. Known for their bombastic beats and horror themed lyrics, this song is the perfect manifestation of both. This record has a hypnotic, crazed beat with a combination of rap styles--extremely sped up and slowed, Southern drawls. A song like this is easily overshadowed by Three 6 Mafia’s other critically acclaimed, more popular records, but this song gives a truer representation of what Three 6 Mafia’s musical style personified.
