Onyx is a legendary hip-hop group known for their raw, aggressive style and streetwise lyrics. Formed in the early 1990s, they quickly became one of the most influential groups in the hardcore rap scene. Their music blends intense delivery, hard-hitting beats, and gritty lyrical content. Onyx has been a staple in rap culture, known for their fiery tracks and their impact on the evolution of rap during the 90s.
Onyx’s music often discusses themes of violence, life in the streets, and personal struggles, delivering these topics with relentless energy. The group is led by the dynamic duo of Sticky Fingaz and Fredro Starr, who are known for their distinctive voices and energetic performances. Their music, while deeply rooted in the hardcore rap tradition, also includes elements of humor, self-reflection, and a sense of defiance. Over the years, Onyx’s style has become iconic, influencing many artists in the rap and hip-hop world.
In this article, we will explore some of Onyx’s most recommended rap hits. These songs highlight the group’s signature style, showcasing their lyricism, delivery, and impact on the rap scene. Each track represents a different facet of Onyx’s sound and musical journey, offering a glimpse into the evolution of one of the most important rap groups of the 1990s.
Onyx’s 6 Awesome Rap Tracks
1. “Slam”
“Slam” is Onyx’s most iconic track, and it’s easy to see why. The song is an explosion of energy, from the opening beat to the final verse. The track’s hard-hitting bassline and aggressive delivery perfectly capture Onyx’s raw, unfiltered approach to rap. The chorus, “Slam, slam, slam!” became a chant that would echo through clubs and radio stations. The song speaks to the feeling of defiance and aggression, typical of Onyx’s style. Sticky Fingaz and Fredro Starr’s delivery is intense and filled with emotion, while the production complements their style with hard-hitting beats and aggressive instrumentation. “Slam” remains a rap anthem, continuing to define Onyx’s legacy.
2. “Throw Ya Gunz”
“Throw Ya Gunz” is another powerful track from Onyx’s debut album. It’s a raw, unrelenting anthem, featuring a menacing beat and hard-edged lyrics. The track’s intensity is fueled by its aggressive tone, both in terms of its production and its lyrical content. Onyx raps about violence, survival, and street life with a blunt, unapologetic style. The imagery in the song is vivid and grim, matching the urgency in their delivery. The track stands out as a reminder of Onyx’s ability to create music that captures the dangerous, chaotic energy of their environment. “Throw Ya Gunz” helped solidify Onyx’s reputation as one of the most hardcore rap groups of the time.
3. “Shiftee”
“Shiftee” is one of the standout tracks from Onyx’s second album, All We Got Iz Us. This song shows a slightly different side of Onyx, blending their signature aggressive delivery with a more introspective approach. The beat is laid-back yet still hard enough to carry the song’s weight. The lyrics are full of street-smart wisdom, with the group reflecting on their experiences in the harsh world around them. The song’s steady flow and catchy hooks make it one of the more accessible tracks in Onyx’s catalog, but it still retains that trademark gritty edge. “Shiftee” represents a more reflective Onyx, showing that they are not just about aggression, but also about survival and navigating a tough world.
4. “Last Dayz”
“Last Dayz” is a haunting track from All We Got Iz Us, offering a dark reflection on the struggles of life. The song features a slower, more ominous beat, which allows the group to explore more serious themes. The lyrics touch on topics of mortality, loss, and the inevitability of death, with Onyx’s members providing a raw, emotional delivery. The beat is a perfect backdrop for the introspective content, giving the track a sense of urgency. “Last Dayz” stands out as one of Onyx’s most thought-provoking songs, showing their depth and ability to explore heavier themes while maintaining their hardcore edge.
5. “Da Nexx Nigguz”
“Da Nexx Nigguz” is a classic example of Onyx’s style, blending hardcore lyrics with a pounding beat. The track is filled with the group’s signature aggressive delivery, and it discusses issues of loyalty, survival, and street life. Onyx’s raw and unapologetic flow is at its peak here, as they dive into the realities of living in a tough environment. The beat features intense drums and dark, haunting melodies that give the track a gritty feel. “Da Nexx Nigguz” is one of the standout tracks from Shut ‘Em Down, and it’s a great representation of Onyx’s ability to deliver tough, street-focused content with unmatched intensity.
6. “Shut ‘Em Down”
The title track from Shut ‘Em Down is a fierce anthem that showcases Onyx’s ability to create an aggressive, energetic track. The song features a head-banging beat and a fast-paced flow that perfectly complements the group’s in-your-face delivery. The lyrics are filled with defiance and confidence, as Onyx declares their dominance in the rap game. The beat is heavy, with a driving rhythm that creates an urgent, aggressive atmosphere. “Shut ‘Em Down” is one of the quintessential tracks in Onyx’s catalog, representing their fearless approach to making music and their commitment to staying true to their hardcore roots.
See Also: 9 Steps to Make a Rap Beat on Chrome Music Lab
Conclusion
Onyx’s music has left a lasting imprint on the hip-hop genre. From their raw and aggressive delivery to their gritty, street-focused lyrics, they have always stayed true to their roots. Tracks like “Slam,” “Throw Ya Gunz,” and “Shut ‘Em Down” have become staples in the rap world, and their influence can be seen in the work of countless artists that followed. Onyx’s ability to create powerful, high-energy tracks has solidified their place as one of the most important groups in hip-hop history. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists who look up to the group’s uncompromising style. Whether through their confrontational anthems or their more introspective moments, Onyx’s music remains a powerful force in the rap world.
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