Yes, it's true Kanye's creative mind is a bit out there and yes his ego is ridiculous, but you can't deny that since Mr. West's debut album back in 2004 that he hasn't had some of the best hip hop singles. Not only does he have some of the best, but he consistently releases great singles that connect with his audience. I'm not a big fan of his personality, but there is no reason to not give him some shine when it comes to his music. Below are my top 15 picks of Kanye West's best singles to date. Granted, there are a few more and this is strictly my opinion, but if you disagree or have a different order hit up the comments below and let us know.
15). All of the Lights (My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, 2010)
Probably one of Kanye's catchiest commercial songs, but lyrically not as strong. It also helps that he snagged Rihanna, who basically was taking over the world when this song came out. Kid Cudi is on here too, which I think he should of been used more.
14). Love Lockdown (808s & Heartbreak, 2008)
In 2008, people were a bit surprised that Kanye went the autotune way and sang for most of the album. At first, it turned a lot of people off, but now I think it really showed Kanye's willingness to experiment creatively. It's a pretty powerful track.
13). All Falls Down (The College Dropout, 2004)
Kanye's debut album is probably his masterpiece, "All Falls Down" had one of the best vocal hooks and a great video to boot. Yet, it was some of the lyrics that made this . Plus, it still was a mainstream hit.
12). Good Life (Graduation, 2007)
One of those anthems for relaxing too or even if you are at a party, "Good Life" had those positive vibes. It also featured T-Pain when he was a hug commodity in music, but now I think Future took that crown from him. I also feel like T-Pain was his encouragement for his own autotune phase.
11). Ni**as in Paris (Watch the Throne, 2011)
When it was announced Jay-Z and Kanye were releasing a collaborative album back in 2011, hip hop went ape shit. While I wouldn't say the record was a disappoint me, I had a bit more hope for it. There are some enjoyable jams, with this one being a huge single. Along with "Otis" and "HAM."
10). Through the Wire (The College Dropout, 2004)
This was the introduction to Kanye West the rapper, instead of just the producer and did it leave an impact. Not only did it have that classic vocal sample, but proved Kanye had some introspective bars. Plus, he rapped this with his jaw wired shut after a bad car accident.
9). Heartless (808s & Heartbreak, 2008)
One of my favorites of Kanye, even with the autotune I thought this was even stronger than "Love Lockdown." The concept of the story and the beat are incredible.
8). Touch the Sky (Late Registration, 2005)
Not only did this one have a feel good vibe, but it gave the world an introduction to fellow Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco. The two sounded so strong together and wish they would link up once more.
7.) Stronger (Graduation, 2007)
Putting good use of a Daft Punk sample, Kanye returned strong with one of his most popular and mainstream tune to dates. It also brought Daft Punk into more people's lives, but also alienated some hardcore Daft Punk fans. I however, can't deny how important this song was for Kanye.
6.) Power (My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, 2010)
Out of all of West's collection, "Power" is one of those songs that gives you energy while retaining a strong message. It gets me pumped up and is one of those songs between the thumping soldier-like beat and Kanye's growl that goes down as one of his best.
5). Jesus Walks (The College Dropout, 2004)
Another important song for solidifying Kanye as the next king of the hip hop world was the incredible track "Jesus Walks." A song that went mainstream, but retains powerful messages throughout. This is where he grabbed a lot of fans and hip hop heads attentions.
4.) Black Skinhead (Yeezus 2013)
Kanye's last album, Yeezus, wasn't one of my favorites but it did have some great music. The single "Black Skinhead" was a stand out for one hell of an interesting beat. Plus, he gets a bit wonky with his flow.
3). Slow Jamz (The College Dropout, 2004)
I personally do not know anyone that dislikes this song and how could you? That mellow beat, the classic Kanye line "She got a light-skinned friend look like Michael Jackson, Got a dark-skinned friend look like Michael Jackson." Then you add Jamie Foxx and Twista? Game over.
2). Runaway (My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, 2010
Kanye came back strong in 2010 with My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy and "Runaway" was one of those songs that stood out. I'll admit, at first I wasn't really feeling the song. But as I heard it more and time went on, I find this to be one of his best singles out there. Between the slow buildup from piano to full beat, Kanye crooning a bit, and then some bars from Pusha T, you really find that he hasn't lost his touch.
1).Gold Digger (Late Registration, 2005)
"Gold Digger" might not be one of Kanye's greatest songs of all time, but as a single there is no denying this one. The use of Jamie Foxx to sing some lyrics of Ray Charles was pure genius. Then the whole concept of the track has made this one of the ultimate classic singles. Go anywhere and when this song pops on, most people instantly get excited or sing along. Yet, this also depends where you are as a bingo night at a retirement home I don't think would have that reaction.
Posted in: Feature,Hip Hop,Kanye West
