If you know me, you know I love rap and hip hop – really smart, intelligent rap, especially. That's not the only kind I like, but it's my favorite because I think smart, truly on point and poetic rap can send a great message. These are the songs that make me think – and yeah, there'll probably be a lot of Eminem on here, just to let you know. Some of them are lyrically clever and some of them come with a deep message. Share your favorite songs, too!
1. “Lose Yourself” – Eminem
Of course I'm starting with my boy! “Lose Yourself” is smart for its message, its rhyme structure, and its perspective. Marshall knows how to twist a word like nobody's business and he knows how to bring gritty realism that you wouldn't guess from all his popular, funny radio edits.
2. “Moment of Clarity” – Jay-Z
Jay-Z is absolutely a smart rapper and a smart writer. The way he channels his ideas is often brilliant, and he really does have this clarity that almost lets him see the future.
3. “N.Y. State of Mind” – Nas
Nas channels Homer in this beat. It's both lyrically clever and just smart, plus it's emotionally deep. Triple threat!
4. “Poetic Justice” – Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar is brilliant. I love him for the same reason I love Eminem: the poetry in his lyrics. He also knows how to bring a message and how to uplift with his music. I mean, listen to these lyrics.
5. “Superstar” – Lupe Fiasco
Lupe Fiasco may be one of the most intelligent voices in rap. He's got a ton of songs that will make you think, but this one's my absolute favorite.
6. “Same Love” – Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
Say what you will about Macklemore, but he tries, kind of. This song's special to me, though, for obvious reasons.
7. “Alibi” – Dessa
Listen to this. If you don't know Dessa, you need to. I love the story in this song – it'll give you chills!
8. “No Tears” – Scarface
If you've watched Office Space, you've heard this. Well, you've heard part of it. You need to hear all of it.
9. “Contrails” – Astronautalis
My love of Tegan & Sara and of Tegan Quin led me to this song. I beg you to give it a listen.
10. “Reagan” – Killer Mike
Although it's technically about Reagan, I think this song is pretty on point about today's politicians, too. Get it, Mike.
11. “Renegade” – Jay-Z and Eminem
Eminem has a gift for telling the future, too, as well as for skewering the versions of himself created by the public. I really would love to hear more collaborations with Em and Jay-Z.
12. “Changes” – 2Pac
Tupac was such a smart rapper. His rhythms, his lyrical twists, and his stories were seething, sizzling, and so deeply cutting. This is a great song to listen to when you need to cool your pride.
13. “the World is (below the Heavens)” – Blu & Exile
Blu just … this isn't just music. This is pure poetry.
14. “a Bird in the Hand” – Ice Cube
You'd be surprised how many rappers tackle political topics in their music. This is one of my favorites, however, because the word play is just so clever!
15. “I Feel like Dying” – Lil Wayne
Don't pass Wayne off as a joke. Listen. He does surrealism like no rapper I've ever heard before. Listen to “Drop the World” with Eminem for another example.
16. “Retrospect for Life” – Common
This song features Lauryn Hill, who helps make it what it is. It's powerful beyond belief. I mean, this will give you chills.
17. “the Way I Am” – Eminem
Ending with my boy, too! Come on, you've gotta love an artist who knows exactly why he's hated, who can pinpoint exactly why people loathe him, and still comes out swinging.
Now seriously, share your favorite beats! What's the smartest rap song you've ever heard?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are intelligent rap songs?
- Intelligent rap songs are tracks that have thoughtful, complex lyrics. They often explore deep topics like life, society, and personal struggles, making you think hard while you enjoy the beats.
- Can rap music be deep and thought-provoking?
- Yes, rap music can be very deep and thought-provoking. Many rappers use their songs as a way to express their insights, tell stories with powerful messages, or discuss important issues, which can give listeners a lot to think about.
- What makes a rap song poetic?
- A rap song becomes poetic when it features creative wordplay, storytelling, vivid imagery, and layered meanings in the lyrics, much like poetry. This kind of rap often resonates on an emotional level as well.
- How can rap songs be about being smart?
- Rap songs about being smart often focus on the artist's intelligence, their clever lyricism, and their understanding of complex issues. These songs can inspire listeners to learn and think critically about the world around them.
- Are there rap songs that can teach you life lessons?
- Definitely! Many rap songs with deep meaning discuss real-life experiences and challenges, offering wisdom and life lessons. They can motivate and teach listeners about resilience, empathy, and self-awareness.