New York drill music has rapidly grown into one of the most influential subgenres of hip-hop in recent years. With its aggressive beats, fast-paced flows, and often gritty lyrical content, this style of rap continues to dominate the streets and airwaves. The genre blends elements of Chicago drill, UK drill, and the unique culture of New York, creating a sound that’s impossible to ignore. This article highlights 15 New York drill songs that capture the essence of the city’s drill scene, from rising stars to established legends. Each of these tracks showcases the genre’s intense energy, vivid storytelling, and unique twist on drill’s signature sound.
15 New York Drill Songs You Should Be Listening To Right Now
1. “Suburban” – Sleepy Hallow
Sleepy Hallow’s track “Suburban” is one of the most notable songs in the New York drill scene. The song stands out because of Sleepy’s ability to blend drill’s hard-edged production with a smooth, melodic delivery. It’s a perfect example of the evolving drill style, where the production stays gritty while the artist adds a more fluid, introspective flow. The track is an exploration of Sleepy Hallow’s journey, from tough street life to aspirations of a better future, all while maintaining the authenticity that drill fans appreciate. The production is cinematic, making it a standout in the current drill scene.
2. “Dior” – Pop Smoke
Although Pop Smoke is now a global name, “Dior” remains one of the defining songs of New York drill. The track’s signature beat, which combines haunting melodies with heavy bass and syncopated drums, perfectly complements Pop Smoke’s gravelly voice and trademark flow. The song’s lyrics reflect his ambition, his confidence, and his aspirations of success, making it a celebration of his journey to the top. With “Dior,” Pop Smoke not only solidified his place in the drill scene but also helped introduce New York drill to a worldwide audience, leaving an undeniable legacy.
3. “Gimme the Loot” – Fivio Foreign
Fivio Foreign is one of the leading figures in the New York drill scene, and “Gimme the Loot” is one of his standout tracks. The song features a catchy hook that instantly grabs listeners’ attention. Fivio’s delivery is fast-paced, yet precise, emphasizing his skill at weaving together street tales with his sharp, confident rap style. The production is hard-hitting, with distorted 808s and a relentless beat that drives the song forward. Fivio Foreign’s charisma and distinct flow are on full display here, showcasing why he’s one of the biggest names in New York drill.
4. “The Woo” – Pop Smoke, 50 Cent, Roddy Ricch
Another track from Pop Smoke that solidified his status in the drill world is “The Woo,” featuring 50 Cent and Roddy Ricch. The song’s infectious beat and the energy from all three artists make it a quintessential drill anthem. Pop Smoke’s voice is as commanding as ever, while 50 Cent adds a classic New York touch with his signature style. Roddy Ricch, known for his melodic contributions, brings a different flavor to the track, creating a balanced mix of hard drill sounds and melodic elements. “The Woo” became a massive hit, and it shows how drill music can transcend local boundaries.
5. “Twirlanta” – Lil Tjay and Fivio Foreign
On “Twirlanta,” Lil Tjay and Fivio Foreign team up for an energetic collaboration that showcases their chemistry and respective styles. Lil Tjay, known for his ability to fuse drill with melodic elements, pairs well with Fivio’s raw, street-heavy flow. The track is filled with catchy ad-libs, hard-hitting 808s, and intense energy. Lyrically, “Twirlanta” talks about street life, loyalty, and surviving the dangerous environments they come from. The chemistry between the two artists is evident, making this one of the strongest New York drill collaborations in recent years.
6. “No Suburban, Pt. 2” – Kay Flock
Kay Flock’s “No Suburban, Pt. 2” is an unrelenting drill anthem that showcases his raw, aggressive flow. Kay Flock, known for his intense delivery and street-centric lyrics, brings the heat with this track. “No Suburban” is a declaration of authenticity, with the artist making it clear that he doesn’t play by the rules of the mainstream rap game. The production complements his style perfectly, with fast-paced drums and sharp 808s. It’s a track that encapsulates the gritty energy of New York drill and emphasizes Kay Flock’s position in the drill scene.
7. “Bigger Than Life or Death” – Lil Durk and King Von (NY Drill Remix)
While originally a track by Chicago drill artists Lil Durk and King Von, the New York drill remix of “Bigger Than Life or Death” brings a whole new energy. The remix features hard-hitting beats that are synonymous with New York’s drill scene, giving it an undeniable edge. The song’s lyrics dive deep into themes of loyalty, struggle, and survival, a reflection of the harsh realities both Durk and Von often rap about. The New York remix features a faster pace, giving it a more intense vibe, perfectly tailored for the local drill sound.
8. “War” – A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie
Although A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie is primarily known for his melodic style, his “War” track brings a refreshing twist to the New York drill sound. The song blends his signature melodic flows with drill’s heavier, more aggressive production. It creates an exciting contrast that helps A Boogie stand out from his peers. “War” is an anthem for anyone facing adversity, with lyrics reflecting on the struggles of the streets and the fight to rise above. The track’s eerie production and hard-hitting drums make it a perfect fit for the drill scene.
9. “Big Drip” – Fivio Foreign
“Big Drip” is another massive track by Fivio Foreign that has cemented his role as one of the key figures in the New York drill scene. The song features a haunting piano melody, combined with a deep bassline that sets the tone for the track. Fivio’s distinct flow and braggadocious lyrics elevate the track, making it one of his most successful releases. The song focuses on Fivio’s rise in the rap game and his newfound success, as he flaunts his wealth and status. It’s a quintessential drill anthem that highlights the genre’s flashy, larger-than-life vibe.
10. “Shake It” – Shy Glizzy and Sleepy Hallow
“Shake It” brings together Shy Glizzy and Sleepy Hallow for an energetic drill banger. The track is a perfect blend of gritty drill production and catchy hooks, with both artists bringing their distinct styles to the table. Shy Glizzy’s smooth, confident flow complements Sleepy Hallow’s melodic delivery, creating a dynamic track that keeps listeners hooked. Lyrically, “Shake It” focuses on confidence, success, and making it out of tough situations, all while staying true to their roots. It’s a prime example of how drill music continues to evolve and innovate.
11. “Welcome to the Party” – Pop Smoke
Pop Smoke’s “Welcome to the Party” is perhaps one of the most iconic New York drill tracks to ever be released. The track was a breakout hit that introduced Pop Smoke’s unique drill style to a global audience. The infectious beat, combined with Pop Smoke’s deep voice and street-heavy lyrics, creates an atmosphere of celebration and aggression. “Welcome to the Party” is a song that brings people together in the club or at a party, but it also serves as a raw, unfiltered expression of Pop Smoke’s lifestyle and the gritty world he came from.
12. “Plugged In” – Sosa Geek
Sosa Geek’s “Plugged In” is a standout track within the New York drill scene. Known for his aggressive delivery and street-oriented lyrics, Sosa Geek brings an intensity to this track that’s hard to match. The production is fast-paced, with rapid-fire hi-hats and hard-hitting bass, making it a perfect fit for his high-energy flow. “Plugged In” showcases Sosa Geek’s ability to stay true to drill’s roots while also experimenting with his sound. It’s a track that’s quickly gained attention for its rawness and its ability to capture the essence of New York drill.
13. “Get Back” – Chef G
Chef G’s “Get Back” is another standout in the New York drill scene. The track has a slower tempo than most drill songs, but it’s just as impactful. The deep bass and eerie synths create a dark, moody atmosphere that perfectly complements Chef G’s calm, yet intense delivery. “Get Back” is a reflection of the streets, focusing on themes of revenge, loyalty, and survival. It’s a song that feels both personal and universal, making it a hit with fans of drill music.
14. “Murder Rate” – Sheff G
Sheff G has been a major force in shaping the New York drill scene, and “Murder Rate” is one of his most memorable tracks. The song combines a sinister, dark instrumental with Sheff G’s distinct flow. His lyrical content often touches on his upbringing in Brooklyn, his rise in the rap game, and the harsh realities of street life. “Murder Rate” is not only a testament to Sheff G’s storytelling ability but also an example of how New York drill music continues to push boundaries while staying true to its roots.
15. “We Up” – Lil Tjay, Fivio Foreign, and Pop Smoke
“We Up” brings together Lil Tjay, Fivio Foreign, and the late Pop Smoke, making it an all-star New York drill track. The chemistry between the three artists is evident, with each contributing their own unique style to the track. The production is energetic and fast-paced, providing the perfect backdrop for the artists’ hard-hitting lyrics. The song focuses on overcoming struggles and reaching the top, celebrating the success they’ve achieved despite the odds. “We Up” is a powerful anthem for anyone striving for success, making it a must-listen for drill fans everywhere.
See Also: What Is the Techno Rap?
Conclusion
New York drill music is undeniably one of the most exciting movements in the rap game today. Its unique blend of aggressive beats, catchy hooks, and vivid street storytelling has captured the attention of listeners around the world. The 15 tracks highlighted in this article represent the diversity and evolution of the genre, from classic hits by Pop Smoke to newer anthems by rising stars like Kay Flock and Sheff G. Each song demonstrates the power of drill to reflect the realities of street life, while also pushing the boundaries of what’s possible within the genre. If you’re a fan of hard-hitting beats and bold, unapologetic lyrics, these New York drill songs are a great place to start.
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