Pop rap, a fusion of pop and hip-hop elements, has become one of the most popular genres in modern music. It combines catchy hooks, melodic beats, and the energy of rap, making it appealing to a broad audience. Over the years, numerous artists have blurred the lines between pop and rap, creating songs that top charts and dominate the airwaves. In this article, we will explore some of the most recommended pop rap songs that have defined the genre. These tracks blend memorable lyrics with infectious beats, appealing to both hip-hop and pop music lovers alike.
15 Catchy Pop Rap Songs You Should Listen To
1. “Hotline Bling” – Drake
Drake’s “Hotline Bling” is a quintessential example of pop rap, with its laid-back beat and catchy chorus. Released in 2015, the song quickly became a cultural phenomenon, thanks to its mellow vibe and relatable lyrics about late-night phone calls from an ex. Drake’s smooth, melodic delivery made this track an instant hit, and its memorable music video further propelled its success. “Hotline Bling” showcases Drake’s ability to effortlessly blend pop melodies with rap verses.
2. “See You Again” – Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth
“See You Again,” by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth, is a powerful tribute to friendship and loss. Written for the Furious 7 soundtrack in honor of the late actor Paul Walker, the song combines Puth’s emotional vocals with Wiz Khalifa’s heartfelt rap verses. The combination of Puth’s piano-driven melody and Khalifa’s introspective lyrics make this track a standout in the pop rap genre. Its universal message of love and remembrance resonated with listeners, making it one of the most successful pop rap songs of all time.
3. “Empire State of Mind” – Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys
“Empire State of Mind” is a tribute to New York City, blending Jay-Z’s rap verses with Alicia Keys’ soaring vocals. Released in 2009, the song became an anthem for the Big Apple, capturing the spirit and ambition of the city. Jay-Z’s vivid storytelling and Keys’ powerful chorus made the track a massive success, topping charts worldwide. The song’s uplifting message and catchy hook make it a prime example of how pop and rap can come together to create something timeless.
4. “Love the Way You Lie” – Eminem ft. Rihanna
Eminem’s collaboration with Rihanna on “Love the Way You Lie” is a haunting pop rap ballad that explores themes of toxic relationships and emotional pain. Eminem’s raw, confessional rap verses contrast with Rihanna’s soaring, emotional chorus, creating a song that is both powerful and relatable. Released in 2010, the track became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts and resonating with listeners worldwide. The song’s blend of hip-hop aggression and pop melodicism makes it a standout in Eminem’s discography.
5. “The Monster” – Eminem ft. Rihanna
Following the success of “Love the Way You Lie,” Eminem and Rihanna teamed up again for “The Monster.” This 2013 track continues to blend rap and pop, with Eminem delivering rapid-fire verses and Rihanna providing the haunting chorus. The song addresses themes of fame, mental health, and inner demons, with Eminem’s introspective lyrics contrasting with Rihanna’s ethereal vocals. “The Monster” became another chart-topping hit for the duo, showcasing their undeniable chemistry and ability to create pop rap anthems.
6. “Sunflower” – Post Malone & Swae Lee
“Sunflower,” by Post Malone and Swae Lee, became an instant hit when it was released as part of the Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse soundtrack in 2018. The song blends elements of pop, rap, and R&B, creating a smooth, melodic track that showcases both artists’ vocal abilities. Post Malone’s laid-back delivery and Swae Lee’s high-pitched, melodic chorus make “Sunflower” a feel-good anthem that appeals to a wide audience. The track’s catchy hook and laid-back vibe make it a staple in the pop rap genre.
7. “Old Town Road” – Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus
“Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X took the world by storm in 2019, blending rap with country elements to create a genre-defying hit. While it’s not a traditional pop rap song, its infectious melody and viral success make it a must-include on this list. Lil Nas X’s simple, catchy rap verses paired with Billy Ray Cyrus’s country twang created a song that dominated charts for weeks. The track’s cross-genre appeal and undeniable catchiness make it one of the most iconic pop rap songs of the last decade.
8. “Can’t Hold Us” – Macklemore & Ryan Lewis ft. Ray Dalton
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’s “Can’t Hold Us” is a high-energy pop rap anthem that blends upbeat rap verses with an infectious hook by Ray Dalton. Released in 2011, the song became a global hit, thanks to its lively production and motivational lyrics about perseverance and success. Macklemore’s rapid-fire delivery and Ryan Lewis’s dynamic production make “Can’t Hold Us” a standout track in the pop rap genre. The song’s energetic vibe and catchy chorus make it a favorite for both rap and pop fans alike.
9. “I Like It” – Cardi B, Bad Bunny & J Balvin
“I Like It,” by Cardi B, Bad Bunny, and J Balvin, is a vibrant pop rap song that blends Latin influences with hip-hop beats. Released in 2018, the track became a summer anthem, thanks to its infectious beat and Cardi B’s confident, charismatic rap verses. The song’s Latin-infused production, combined with Bad Bunny and J Balvin’s guest appearances, make it a celebration of culture and identity. “I Like It” is a prime example of how pop rap can incorporate diverse influences to create something fresh and exciting.
10. “Thrift Shop” – Macklemore & Ryan Lewis ft. Wanz
“Thrift Shop,” by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, became a cultural phenomenon when it was released in 2012. The song’s playful lyrics about shopping at thrift stores, combined with its catchy saxophone riff, made it a standout pop rap hit. Macklemore’s humorous, storytelling rap style and Wanz’s deep-voiced chorus created a track that was both fun and socially relevant. The song’s unique concept and catchy beat made it an instant hit, and it remains a favorite in the pop rap genre.
11. “God’s Plan” – Drake
Drake’s “God’s Plan” is a reflective pop rap track that combines introspective lyrics with a smooth, melodic beat. Released in 2018, the song became a massive hit, thanks to its relatable message about success, gratitude, and faith. Drake’s laid-back delivery and the song’s uplifting vibe made it an instant favorite among fans. “God’s Plan” showcases Drake’s ability to blend emotional depth with pop appeal, making it one of his most successful tracks.
12. “Sicko Mode” – Travis Scott ft. Drake
“Sicko Mode” is a dynamic pop rap track that blends multiple beat switches and styles into one cohesive song. Travis Scott and Drake’s collaboration showcases both artists’ strengths, with Scott’s experimental production and Drake’s smooth flow. The song’s unpredictable structure and infectious energy make it a standout in the pop rap genre. “Sicko Mode” became a major hit, topping charts and earning critical acclaim for its innovative approach to pop rap.
13. “Starships” – Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj’s “Starships” is a high-energy pop rap track that blends EDM influences with rap verses. Released in 2012, the song became a party anthem, thanks to its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus. Minaj’s confident, rapid-fire rap delivery, combined with the song’s infectious production, made “Starships” a massive hit. The track’s blend of pop, rap, and electronic elements showcases Minaj’s versatility as an artist and her ability to dominate both the pop and rap worlds.
14. “Fancy” – Iggy Azalea ft. Charli XCX
Iggy Azalea’s “Fancy,” featuring Charli XCX, is a pop rap hit that dominated the charts in 2014. The song’s minimalistic beat, catchy hook, and Azalea’s confident rap delivery made it an instant favorite. Charli XCX’s infectious chorus adds a pop sensibility to the track, making it a perfect blend of both genres. “Fancy” became a cultural moment, with its catchy hook and bold attitude resonating with fans worldwide.
15. “In My Feelings” – Drake
“In My Feelings” became a viral sensation in 2018, thanks in part to the dance challenge that accompanied it. The song’s catchy hook and upbeat production made it an instant pop rap hit. Drake’s smooth delivery and the song’s playful lyrics made it a favorite for both radio play and social media. “In My Feelings” is another example of Drake’s ability to create songs that resonate with both pop and rap audiences.
See Also: 9 Steps to Make a Rap Beat on Chrome Music Lab
Conclusion
Pop rap has carved out a unique space in the music world, blending the catchy melodies of pop with the rhythmic delivery of rap. From emotional ballads to high-energy anthems, the songs in this genre offer something for everyone. Artists like Drake, Eminem, and Post Malone have mastered the art of combining these two genres, creating tracks that dominate both pop and rap charts. Whether you’re looking for a song to dance to or one that speaks to your emotions, pop rap offers a wide variety of tracks that are sure to resonate.
