Rap is a genre that’s influential, emotional, and inspirational. With National Hip-Hop Month approaching in November, we wanted to do something special to show our appreciation for the genre. That’s why we put together a list of our favorite hip-hop movie soundtracks. Rap songs have elevated movies for almost 40 years, and today we want to recognize some films that utilized the music to perfection.
Boyz n the Hood (1991) (Rated R)
Boyz n the Hood is one of the greatest movies of all time, and Ice Cube’s effect on the film was massive. Not only does he star in the incredible hood flick, but he kicks off the killer soundtrack with “How to Survive in South Central.” Other notable songs include “Mama Don’t Take No Mess” by Yo-Yo and “Growin’ Up in the Hood” by Compton’s Most Wanted, which both elevate the overall vibe of the film.
Get Rich or Die Tryin’ (2005) (Rated R)
50 Cent and G-Unit were on fire in the early 2000s, and when Get Rich or Die Tryin’ was released in 2005, it took them straight to the top. 50 is featured in 12 of the 16 songs, and the soundtrack includes some of his best singles ever released, including “Hustler’s Ambition,” “Window Shopper,” and “Best Friend.” Max out the volume on your speakers for this one.
Friday (1995) (Rated R)
Once again, Ice Cube comes up clutch, this time on the soundtrack for 1995’s comedy powerhouse Friday. Cube’s smokin’ hot single sets the tone for the movie, and the rest of the soundtrack is jam-packed with hits. Dr. Dre’s “Keep Their Heads Ringin’” stands out as a major highlight. With hypnotizing synth, bumping bass, and of course some tight rhymes from Dre, this track packs some serious heat.
Black Panther (2018) (Rated PG-13)
Unlike Ice Cube and 50 Cent, Kendrick Lamar didn’t get to show off his acting chops in Black Panther. But it didn’t matter. His effect on the film is inevitable, as he’s featured in almost every song from the star-studded soundtrack. Other artists featured on the album include Anderson .Paak, The Weeknd, Travis Scott, Future, SZA, 2 Chainz, ScHoolboy Q, and so many more. Simply put, there’s not a single skip on this project.
8 Mile (2002) (Rated R)
If you’re going to make a movie about the beginning of Eminem’s rap career, then you better be sure the music is on point. 8 Mile absolutely delivers, providing an intense track list that features music from Eminem, 50 Cent, Nas, Jay-Z, and many more. But most importantly, 8 Mile gave us one of Shady’s most iconic songs, “Lose Yourself,” which might be the best “pump up” song ever created.
Juice (1992) (Rated R)
Tupac Shakur might be the star of Juice, but his music is oddly absent from the soundtrack. That being said, the tracklist still hits like a haymaker. Some of the standouts include “Uptown Anthem” by Naughty by Nature and “So You Want to Be a Gangster” by Too $hort, but the song that puts this album over the top is “Know the Ledge” by Eric B. & Rakim. Bump this track as loud as possible.
Space Jam (1996) (PG)
Everybody’s favorite 90s basketball movie has a soundtrack that goes hard. This album is loaded with classic hip-hop stars, including Coolio, Salt-N-Pepa, and Biz Markie. But the clear winner on this soundtrack is the song “Hit ‘Em High (The Monstars’ Anthem).” Featuring lines from B-Real, Busta Rhymes, Coolio, LL Cool J, and Method Man, this mind-blowing song takes the movie to the next level.
Men in Black (1997) (PG-13)
It makes perfect sense that a movie about aliens has a soundtrack that’s out of this world. Will Smith’s song, which shares the same name as the movie, is still stuck in our heads 25 years later. But the jams don’t end there. The project also features songs from A Tribe Called Quest, Nas, Ginuwine, and Alicia Keys. Truly a superstar lineup!
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