If you’re a fan of old-school rap, this list of the best 90s rap songs is for you. From classics like “Gin and Juice” by Snoop Dogg to more recent hits like “99 Problems” by Jay-Z, these are the most significant hip-hop tracks from the 1990s.
So crank up the volume and enjoy some of the best music from one of rap’s golden eras!
List of the Best 90s Rap Songs 2023
1. “Gin and Juice” by Snoop Dogg
“Gin and Juice” is a 90s rap song by Snoop Dogg, originally featured on his debut studio album “Doggystyle.” This classic track was produced by Dr. Dre and released in 1993, becoming a massive hit on the Billboard charts and claiming the spot of #8 on VH1’s 100 Greatest Hip Hop Songs of All-Time.
The smooth production provided by Dr. Dre combined with Snoop Dogg’s catchy lyricism makes this an undeniable classic in 90s rap songs still beloved today.
2. “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” by Dr. Dre
“Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” by Dr. Dre is an iconic hip-hop song filled with exciting beats and amazing lyrics that have stood the test of time. Released in 1992 as the lead single for Dr. Dre’s album, “The Chronic,” this popular song introduces us to the rapper Snoop Doggy Dogg, who spits his famous verses accompanied by Dr. Dre’s deep-voiced chorus.
The track quickly reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart, making it a pioneer of West Coast rap and rap as a genre in general.
Since then, this infectious tune has resonated with generations of music lovers, inspiring countless singers and rappers in their music-making journey.
3. “Baby Got Back” by Sir Mix-a-Lot
“Baby Got Back” by 90s rap pioneer Sir Mix-a-Lot is one of the most iconic songs from the 90s and arguably one of the funniest Rap anthems ever to hit the Billboard charts.
The 1992 track celebrates women of all shapes and sizes with a humorous refrain highlighting a particular female body type.
While some may view it as a novelty song, there’s no denying its cultural impact regarding body positivity and self-acceptance. Nearly 30 years later, “Baby Got Back” remains an anthem for booty appreciation!
4. “California Love” by 2Pac
“California Love” by 2Pac is a classic hip-hop song and an ode to the state of California. The single was released in 1995, making it an anthem for the West Coast rap scene. It is one of the 90s rap songs of all time.
Featuring verses from Dr. Dre, this hit song topped multiple Billboard charts and stayed on the Hot 100 for 21 weeks, subsequently strengthening 2Pac’s status as one of the most successful rap artists of all time.
In 2009, this iconic collaboration was even added to the Library of Congress’s National Recording Registry, forever cementing its place in pop music culture! With its heavy bass line and lyrics full of romanticized violence, “California Love” has continued to speak to millions over the decades since its debut.
5. “Regulate” by Warren G
The 90s was a great time for hip-hop and rap music; there’s no denying that! One of the most popular 90s rap songs of all time is “Regulate” by Warren G., Featuring Nate Dogg, the iconic duo from Long Beach, California, to make this classic song sound like a musical masterpiece.
The song quickly gained popularity thanks to its storytelling lyrics and incredible hook. To this day, “Regulate” remains a go-to for people looking to take a trip down nostalgia lane. It’s undoubtedly one 90s rap song you need to have in your playlist!
6. “I Wanna Be Down” by Brandy
The classic R&B song “I Wanna Be Down” is one of 90s sensation Brandy’s staple hits. Released in 1994, it was her debut single and instantly became an iconic anthem for young women growing up in the decade.
A standout feature of this track is the diverse array of talents who worked on its production, including babyface, Keith Crouch, and Ray J – making it a veritable sonic masterpiece! As time passes, “I Wanna Be Down” resonates more strongly within us as we seek to define ourselves outside society’s norms.
The timelessness of Brandy’s art makes her music a perpetual reminder for us that proper initiation into adulthood will only come once we truly uncover our unique voice and identity.
7. “C.R.E.A.M” by Wu-Tang Clan
“C.R.E.A.M.” is one of the most popular rap songs of all time, and it was released by Wu-Tang Clan in 1993 as their single from their album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers).
The song speaks to an audience affected by poverty during the early 90s, with powerful lyrics that implore listeners to pursue financial independence, no matter how difficult it may be.
“C.R.E.A.M.” rose to the top of the Hot 100 chart and has become an anthem for other rap artists looking for inspiration on their journeys toward success. This track inspires people everywhere, encouraging us to strive for a better future no matter what life throws our way.
With its hard-hitting beats and incredible storytelling, Wu-Tang Clan’s “C.R.E.A.M.” is an undeniable classic of 90s rap!
8. “Juicy” by The Notorious B.I.G.
The Notorious B.I.G.’s song “Juicy” is one of the most iconic rap songs of all time, and it was released in 1994 as part of his debut album Ready to Die. This single rose to the top of the Billboard charts and remains a fan favorite today, thanks to its positive message about overcoming hardships on the path to success.
“Juicy” is full of inspiring lyrics that encourage listeners to never give up on their dreams, no matter how hard things may get. It has been described as an anthem for the youth during the 90s Rap era and continues to be celebrated today as a timeless song that resonates with everyone who listens.
9. “Ginn & Juice” by Snoop Dogg
“Ginn & Juice” is one of the most popular rap songs of all time, and Snoop Dogg released it in 1994 as part of his debut album Doggystyle. This song quickly became a hit due to its catchy chorus and lyrics about partying and living life to the fullest.
The song continues to be popular today, as it still speaks to people looking for an escape from the everyday. It is one of the greatest 90s rap songs of all time.
Snoop Dogg’s song “Ginn & Juice” is an excellent example of 90s rap music that remains relevant today. It’s an anthem for those seeking a good time, with its catchy hook and positive message about living life to the fullest. This song will stay in your head long after you hear it!
10. “It Was A Good Day” by Ice Cube
It Was A Good Day song was released in 1993 as part of Ice Cube’s album “The Predator.” It is one of the most iconic rap songs of the ’90s. It’s a song that reflects on the good moments of growing up in South Central L.A. and how much the rapper appreciated an excellent day in the hood.
Moreover, the song was highly successful and won multiple awards, including a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Solo Performance. It is a classic song that still resonates with rap fans today. This song will always remain among the most memorable songs of the ’90s rap era.
11. “Mama Said Knock You Out” by L.L. Cool J
Mama Said Knock You Out is another song that dominated 90s rap music. The song was released in 1990, and L.L. Cool J’s delivery has made it a classic piece.
In addition, the song is about L.L. Cool J’s determination to take back the rap game and prove his dominance with this song. It has a hard-hitting beat and strong lyrics exemplify the 90s rap song style. It is one of the most iconic rap songs of all time, and it was certified platinum by the R.I.A.A.
12. “Ruff Ryders Anthem” by D.M.X.
This song is an anthem song of the rap group Ruff Ryders, which was formed in 1988 by Joaquin “Waah” Dean and Darin “Dee” Dean. This song was released in 1998-1999 and is one of the classic 90s rap songs to come from the group.
The song is also full of hardcore rap lyrics that talk about the group’s street lifestyle and ability to make it out of their harsh living conditions. It is one of the most famous 90s rap songs of all time.
D.M.X.’s song is not only a tribute to the Ruff Ryders but also an inspirational song for all those working hard to make it out of their challenging situations.
It was one song that really resonated with 90s rap fans and is still popular today. It’s a song about the power of friendship and loyalty, which made it stand out in the rap scene.
13. “U.N.I.T.Y” by Queen Latifah
U.N.I.T.Y. song is an anthem for female empowerment released in 1993. It was a song that criticized women’s treatment in rap music of the 90s and called out men who used derogatory terms to refer to women.
Queen Latifah was one of the first female rap artists to embrace a female-centric message in her music, and U.N.I.T.Y. was a song that set the tone for other rap songwriters to follow her example in the 90s.
14. “Who Am I (What’s My Name)” by Snoop Dogg
Who Am I is one of the most iconic 90s rap songs and is considered one of the classics from Snoop Dogg. The song was released as part of his debut studio album, Doggystyle, and was produced by Dr. Dre.
It peaked at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, giving Snoop his first top 10 songs. Who Am I has that classic 90s rap sound, and the song’s lyrics find Snoop talking about his life, career, and how he is the “best rapper out there.”
The song has been sampled by many other artists since its release and continues to be an essential song in the rap genre today. It’s a must-listen for any fan of rap and 90s music.
15. “My Name Is” by Eminem
No song better encapsulated the 90s rap movement than Eminem’s iconic single “My Name Is.” It was released in 1999 as the lead single from Eminem’s major-label debut album, The Slim Shady LP, and it was an immediate hit.
Also, you can’t deny that the song was fun and catchy, as it included humorous lyrics and clever rhymes, which helped to make Eminem a star.
16. “Sound Of Da Police” by KRS-One
If you are looking for a song about police brutality, KRS-One’s song “Sound Of Da Police” is a great choice. This song was released in 1993 and is one of the defining rap songs of the 90s.
It dives deep into racism, police brutality, and other issues many African Americans faced during the time. A powerful music video accompanies the song that further highlights these topics, and the song itself has an infectious beat that will keep you coming back for more.
17. “Shoop” by Salt-N-Pepa
Shoop is another classic song from the 90s rap duo Salt-N-Pepa. You can’t go wrong with this song. Its catchy beat, cleverly written lyrics, and enthusiastic vocals make it a piece that will never get old.
The song peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and it has been featured in multiple films and T.V. shows. It’s a must-listen song for any 90s fan.
So, if you’re looking for a song to get your feet tapping or want to make a dance floor come alive, this song is for you.
18. “The Rain” by Missy Elliott
The rain is another song that has become an iconic song from the 90s rap era. Released in 1997, it was Missy Elliott’s debut single and took the rap game to an entirely new level.
You can only hear this song by remembering the innovative music video and its implications for a new era in hip-hop. It is one of the fantastic 90s rap songs of all time.
19. “Dear Mama” by 2Pac
This song is a tribute to the song’s late mother and has become one of the most iconic rap songs from the 90s.
With its heartfelt lyrics and classic samples from the song “Changes” by 2Pac himself, this song is a powerful reminder of the importance of family and the strength of a mother’s love.
20. “Triumph” by Wu-Tang Clan
This song, which features an unforgettable intro by Ol’ Dirty Bastard, is a celebration of the Wu-Tang Clan’s success and a tribute to their supporters.
With its heavy bassline and classic rap flow, “Triumph” is a song of victory and determination, making it one of the most iconic rap songs from the 90s.
21. “I Used To Love H.E.R” by Common
This song is one of the most potent rap songs from the 90s and has become a classic. It tells the story of hip-hop’s evolution and struggles for recognition, making it an essential song for any fan of rap music.
With clever wordplay and references, Common paints a vivid picture that speaks to all rap fans.
22. “Mc’s Act Like They Don’t Know” by KRS-One
This song is a classic from the 90s and is known for its powerful lyrics about hip-hop struggles. With KRS-One’s signature flow and a classic beat, this song is an anthem for any fan of rap music.
23. “I Ain’t Mad At Cha” by 2Pac.
This song is a tribute to 2Pac’s fallen friends and serves as a reminder that life can be short. With its heartfelt lyrics and classic production, this song is a powerful reminder of the importance of cherishing our friends and living life to its fullest.
Conclusion
These are just some of the iconic rap songs from the 90s that remain popular today. From classic tracks to party anthems, the 90s rap scene was full of fantastic music that will get you dancing and singing along.
So put on your headphones, turn up the volume, and enjoy some of the best rap songs from the 90s.
I hope you enjoyed our list! Do you have any favorite rap songs from the 90s that we missed? Let us know in the comments!
That’s all! You can also check out Forever in Our Hearts: Remembering the Rappers that Died and 15+ Best White Rappers (2023 Updated).
Best 90s Rap Songs – F.A.Q.s
What are some of the greatest rap songs from the 90s?
Some of the greatest rap songs from the 90s include “Gin and Juice” by Snoop Dogg, “Big Poppa” by Notorious B.I.G., “Shoop” by Salt-N-Pepa, “The Rain” by Missy Elliott, “Dear Mama” by 2Pac, “Triumph” by Wu-Tang Clan, “I Used To Love H.E.R.” by Common and
What song was featured in multiple movies and T.V. shows?
The song “Shoop” from the rap duo Salt-N-Pepa has been featured in multiple films and T.V. shows.
Who was the artist behind “Mc’s Act Like They Don’t Know”?
The song “Mc’s Act Like They Don’t Know” was written and performed by KRS-One.
What song is a tribute to 2Pac’s fallen friends?
“I Ain’t Mad At Cha” by 2Pac is a song that pays tribute to his late friends and serves as a reminder of how life can be short.
What was the #1 rap song in 1990?
The song that held the number one spot on the rap charts in 1990 was “U Can’t Touch This” by MC Hammer. The song became a pop culture sensation, launching Hammer into superstardom and cementing his status as an icon of 90s rap music. The song continues to be popular today, having since been featured in multiple films and T.V. shows.
What is the best old-school rap?
The best old-school rap song is a matter of opinion, as there are many classic rap songs from the 90s. However, some of the most iconic songs from that time include “Gin and Juice” by Snoop Dogg and many more.
John is the Senior Content writer at BandMag. With 8+ years experience in content writing and SEO, he loves talking about content creation, SEO and his dog.
