Hip hop is a genre known for its rhythmic beats, thought-provoking lyrics, and its cultural impact worldwide. While many hip hop songs emphasize hard-hitting, aggressive sounds and complex lyrical flows, there is also a subgenre of hip hop that leans toward softer, smoother, and more introspective vibes. These tracks create a laid-back atmosphere, offering a refreshing contrast to the usual intensity associated with the genre. Soft hip hop is perfect for relaxed listening, chill moments, or background music when you want to unwind. In this article, we will explore some of the best soft hip hop tracks that showcase this mellow side of the genre.
Top 11 Soft Hip Hop Tracks of All the Time
1. “Best I Ever Had” by Drake
Released as a single in 2009, “Best I Ever Had” was one of the tracks that catapulted Drake to mainstream success. The song features a smooth, melodic beat and introspective lyrics about love, relationships, and admiration. Drake’s laid-back delivery and emotional vulnerability shine throughout the track, making it one of his most iconic songs. The production is minimalistic yet rich, with lush synths and a steady kick drum that propels the song forward without overpowering the delicate mood. “Best I Ever Had” is the perfect example of how hip hop can embrace smooth, soulful elements while still maintaining its lyrical depth.
2. “Good Life” by Kanye West feat. T-Pain
From Kanye West’s 2007 album Graduation, “Good Life” is a soft, celebratory track that blends upbeat vibes with an overall relaxed atmosphere. The song features a smooth, disco-inspired beat, courtesy of Kanye’s production, while T-Pain provides a catchy, auto-tuned hook that adds to the track’s feel-good energy. The lyrics, while still reflective of Kanye’s typical themes of success and struggle, are delivered with an uplifting tone that makes the song perfect for moments of celebration. “Good Life” is a track that merges classic hip hop with a polished, smooth feel that makes it both easygoing and motivating.
3. “The Light” by Common
“The Light” by Common is one of the most soulful and tender hip hop songs of all time. Released in 2000 as part of his Like Water for Chocolate album, the track features a soft, jazzy instrumental backdrop that perfectly complements Common’s smooth flow and emotionally reflective lyrics. The song is about love and finding the perfect partner, and Common’s delivery is both heartfelt and gentle. The track stands out in hip hop for its positive message and its ability to balance introspection with smooth, easygoing production. “The Light” is a perfect example of how hip hop can be used to express vulnerability without sacrificing musical quality.
4. “Sunflower” by Post Malone & Swae Lee
“Sunflower” is a collaboration between Post Malone and Swae Lee for the 2018 Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse soundtrack. The track blends elements of soft hip hop with pop and R&B influences, creating a mellow, breezy atmosphere that makes it perfect for laid-back listening. The smooth guitar riff and airy beats are complemented by the airy vocals of both artists. The lyrics express themes of love and devotion, making the track feel both personal and universal. “Sunflower” showcases how hip hop can seamlessly merge with other genres to create an easygoing, feel-good song that is perfect for winding down.
5. “Crew” by GoldLink feat. Brent Faiyaz & Shy Glizzy
Released in 2016, “Crew” by GoldLink featuring Brent Faiyaz and Shy Glizzy is a smooth, upbeat track with a laid-back vibe. The song’s mellow production, featuring a soft, groovy beat, makes it a perfect example of soft hip hop. The track blends elements of hip hop with R&B and soulful melodies, with Brent Faiyaz’s smooth hook providing a sense of tranquility. The lyrics are about camaraderie, loyalty, and enjoying the good moments in life, making it both an introspective and uplifting track. “Crew” is one of the most popular tracks in the subgenre of “Alternative Hip Hop,” proving that hip hop can be both chill and impactful at the same time.
6. “Blessings” by Chance the Rapper feat. Jamila Woods
“Blessings” from Chance the Rapper’s 2016 album Coloring Book is a soulful, uplifting track that combines soft hip hop beats with gospel influences. The song’s rich instrumentation, including horns and a soulful choir, creates a joyful and reflective atmosphere. Chance the Rapper’s verses are smooth and introspective, as he raps about gratitude, faith, and personal growth. Jamila Woods’ contribution on the hook adds an ethereal, gospel-inspired layer to the track, making it feel both spiritual and celebratory. “Blessings” is a beautiful example of how soft hip hop can merge with other genres to create a song that’s as soothing as it is thought-provoking.
7. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Lauryn Hill
Though Lauryn Hill is often associated with neo-soul, her hip hop tracks also incorporate elements of soft, mellow vibes. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” featured on her 1998 album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, is a prime example of her ability to mix soft hip hop with soulful melodies. The track’s laid-back beat and lush instrumentation provide the perfect backdrop for Lauryn Hill’s heartfelt vocals. The lyrics explore deep feelings of affection and infatuation, and Hill’s delivery is both tender and passionate. The track showcases how hip hop can seamlessly blend with R&B to create a smooth, loving anthem.
8. “Go!” by The Chemical Brothers feat. Q-Tip
Though The Chemical Brothers are primarily known for their electronic music, “Go!” from their 2015 album Born in the Echoes features a memorable guest verse from Q-Tip, bringing hip hop into the mix. The track features a deep, thumping bassline and a smooth, ambient beat that builds throughout the song. Q-Tip’s verses are delivered with a relaxed flow, perfectly complementing the atmospheric production. The song’s lyrics discuss self-empowerment, urging listeners to keep pushing forward. “Go!” is a great example of how soft hip hop can be combined with electronic beats to create a track that is both soothing and energizing.
9. “Cold Little Heart” by Michael Kiwanuka
Though Michael Kiwanuka is primarily an indie soul artist, his track “Cold Little Heart” has been widely appreciated within the soft hip hop community for its slow, introspective mood and melodic elements. The song is built around a haunting, soulful melody, which creates a reflective atmosphere that resonates with hip hop’s introspective themes. The lyrics discuss personal struggles and emotional healing, which can connect with listeners who enjoy more thoughtful hip hop tracks. “Cold Little Heart” blends soft hip hop with indie soul and is a perfect example of how genres can cross-pollinate to create mellow, emotionally charged music.
10. “So Far Away” by J. Cole
“So Far Away” from J. Cole’s 2013 album Born Sinner features mellow production and introspective lyrics that showcase his ability to blend soft hip hop with personal storytelling. The track’s slow, relaxed beat is accompanied by atmospheric synths and smooth percussion, creating a contemplative mood. J. Cole reflects on his journey and the difficulties of staying grounded as he gains fame. The song’s tone is both reflective and melancholic, capturing the complexities of success and personal growth. “So Far Away” is a standout track that exemplifies J. Cole’s mastery of blending soft beats with profound, introspective lyrics.
11. “Love Yourz” by J. Cole
Another track by J. Cole, “Love Yourz,” from his 2014 album 2014 Forest Hills Drive, is a powerful soft hip hop song about self-acceptance and appreciating what you have. The track features a soulful, piano-driven instrumental that creates a relaxed, meditative vibe. J. Cole’s delivery is smooth and reflective, urging listeners to focus on the positive aspects of their lives instead of chasing superficial ideals. The song’s emotional depth and the easygoing production make “Love Yourz” a standout in J. Cole’s discography, demonstrating how soft hip hop can be both uplifting and reflective.
See Also: Why Do People Think Hip-Hop Is Not Music?
Conclusion
Soft hip hop is a genre that provides a refreshing contrast to the typical hard-hitting sounds of mainstream hip hop. Whether it’s introspective tracks like Common’s “The Light” or celebratory anthems like Kanye West’s “Good Life,” soft hip hop has the ability to combine smooth, mellow production with profound and heartfelt lyrics. These tracks are perfect for moments of relaxation, self-reflection, or just enjoying a laid-back vibe. With its blend of soulful beats, introspective flows, and emotive themes, soft hip hop proves that the genre is as diverse and multi-dimensional as any other.
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