If you have read some of my past articles, you know I’m obsessed with the show ‘Euphoria’. I think it’s the best show currently on TV. The world its creator Sam Levinson built is unmatched and its production quality is amazing. While the show may be known online for its makeup and original score, it also has great music supervision.
What’s the difference between score music and music supervision? Score music is used constantly through a show or movie. Most of the time (not in ‘Euphoria’) it is only instrumental music and is unique to that one movie or show. However, music supervision is music that is in the show by other artists. For example, Jason Derulo’s “Whatcha Say” in ‘Gossip Girl’ or Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” in ’13 Going on 30′.
One thing about Euphoria’s music supervision- it is about 75% rap music, which I have never really been a fan of. Sure, I had a rap phase throughout middle school, but as I came into my own throughout high school, the only rap I really listened to was from the Early 2000s (think Eminem’s “Real Slim Shady”), not really any artists that are popular currently. However, thanks to ‘Euphoria’, I have slowly been getting more into rap music. It’s not my favorite genre, by any means, but my tolerance, appreciation, and taste have risen, to say the least.
When you hear a song in a movie or show, it’s hard not to think of that scene, movie or show the next time you hear that song. That’s why I think I’m starting to like rap music again, because I can connect it to a show I love so much.
Being in college, rap music is heard all day, every day. In the car with your friends, at a frat party pre-COVID, in the halls of your apartment or dorm, you name it. When it’s not your preferred music genre, it can get overwhelming and annoying at times. So, I’ve compiled a list of rap songs that will satisfy both your rap-loving friends and you and your non-rap tastes.
Here it is:
- “I’m Gone” by Tommy Genesis Ft. Jozzy
This song is addictive and catchy. It also has a great beat. It’s a great get-ready-in-the-morning song.
- “I Know” by Big Sean Ft. Jhene Aiko
This song is slow, moody, and sexy. It’s not like most songs in the genre. It’s such a vibe.
- “I Know There’s Gonna Be (Good Times) by Jamie Xx and Young Thug
This song just puts you in a good mood when it echoes “I know there’s gonna be good times”. It also has a great beat.
- “Nonstop” by Drake
A rap classic that will make you fit right in with any rap lover. Plus, it does have a good beat.
- “Young, Dumb, and Broke” by Khalid
Another rap, but not rap song. It’s moody and angsty.
- “No Role Modelz” by J. Cole
Another mid-2010s rap classic. However, it has a much different sound then most rap songs.
- “Give Her Some Money” by Maliibu Miitch
Echoes Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s bad bitch energy without being too rough-and-tough or overwhelming.
- “Chanel” by Frank Ocean
This song is smooth and classy.
- “151 Rum” by JID
Sounds like Lil Wayne without being, well, Lil Wayne.
- “Bubblin” by Anderson .Paak
This song has an intense party beat that gives major frat party vibes. (Of course, minus the frat party because of COVID-19.)
- “Location” by Khalid
The thing with Khalid is his rap/R&B music is smooth and mellow. This song is a great example of that.
- “Sunday Candy” by Donnie Trumpet & The Social Experiment
This is just a genuine song. It also doesn’t sound like stereotypical rap music.
- “Mount Everest” by Labrinth
This song will soon be your new obsession. The first time I heard it, I had never heard anything like it. It’s smooth, powerful, and striking.
- “No Problem” by Chance The Rapper, Lil Wayne & 2 Chainz
A very catchy song.
- “911 (Clap For Em)” by Grip
Another song with a great beat.
- “Desperado” by Rihanna
A smooth song. A great one to play while the night’s toning down.
- “Symphonies” by Dan Black Ft. Kid Cudi
This song is fun and hopeful, unlike a lot of other rap songs out there.
- “Super Rich Kids” by Frank Ocean
A smooth, classy song that I’m sure your parents would feel fine listening to with you, which with rap music can be rare.
- “Blow The Whistle” by Too $hort
An underrated Early 2000s song that has been getting a resurgence.
- “Buy U A Drank” by T-Pain
A 2000s classic that everyone knows.
- “Professor Finessor” by Bali Baby
Major. Bad. Bitch. Energy.
- “One Dance” by Drake
One of Drake’s more pop-sounding rap songs.
- “Needed Me” by Rihanna
A great smooth, mysterious beat with the beauty of Rihanna’s voice.
- “Dope House” by Black Oshin
This song is intense and deep-sounding, unlike a lot of other songs in this genre.
