Hip-hop – which consider it or not turns 50 this yr — has all the time blossomed from love. It might appear corny to the typical hip-hop head, however in an business primarily based on stealing the hearts of listeners, love is a common language. Rappers who can steadiness vulnerability with machismo are simple chart-toppers whether or not it involves self-love, love for his or her homies and even love of riches. In the event you’re a love hater, right here’s a truth — Licensed Lover Boy Drake was topped Billboard’s Artist of the Decade in 2021.
However on this listing, just one tune from Drake’s love catalog can be talked about. We’re additionally rounding up our prime affectionate hip-hop cuts from traditional ‘80s throwbacks to Y2K-era favorites to fashionable masterpieces.
To kick-off Valentine’s Day, try the Greatest Hip-Hop Love Songs of All Time beneath.
Editor’s Observe: Numerous these songs come from among the best to ever decide up a mic. Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj, Tupac, Snoop Dogg, Lil Kim, LL Cool J, Drake, 50 Cent and The Infamous B.I.G. all seem on Billboard and Vibe’s lately unveiled listing of the 50 Best Rappers of All Time, launched to coincide with the fiftieth anniversary of hip-hop, which was born out of block events within the Bronx again in 1973.
Whereas the very best rappers of all time is a topic for decent debate, there’s additionally a much less contentious prime 50 listing you’ll be able to flip your consideration to. Billboard’s Prime 50 Love Songs of All Time isn’t an editorial listing, however moderately a roundup of songs with love (or some variation on the phrase) within the title which have carried out the very best on Billboard’s charts through the years. You’ll be able to examine that out right here.
