Lately, mainstream rap has been looking in the direction of Memphis. In an effort to reinvent their sound, rappers have been borrowing from its signature hard-hitting production and triplet flows. This is nothing new. The early 2010s’ underground rap scene (featuring collectives like Rvidxr Klvn (Raider Klan) and ASAP Mob) was heavily influenced by Memphis. Although the region contributes greatly to the modern Hip Hop scene, I made this playlist to highlight songs from the most-referenced era of Memphis music: The 90s.
Looking 4 Da Chewin’ (feat. Skinny Pimp, 8Ball & MJG, DJ Zirk & Kilo G): This song, despite its lengthy and vulgar intro, is one of the most influential songs to come out of Memphis. It’s been sampled countless times and its production has inspired tracks like: “Slob on My Knob”, “No Limit”, and “Plain Jane”.
Ten Wanted Men – Victimized: This song exemplifies the genre’s glorification of dark imagery and the sample-heavy style of production.
Three 6 Mafia (feat. UGK) – Sippin’ on Some Syrup: One of their more popular songs, Three 6 was a major factor for making Memphis Rap known internationally.
DJ Paul & Lord Infamous – Back Against da Wall Pt.1: This track precedes the beginning of Three 6 Mafia, marking the origins of their style, and how the scene’s sound was evolving near the start of the 90s.
Project Pat – Out There: Intriguing intro + Solid Beat + Project Pat = Drake quoting you in a future Memphis-centric song.
Three 6 Mafia (feat. La Chat) – Weak Azz B***h: Bringing the ‘tude, this track is a violent banger that hides nothing.
Lil Noid – Load My Clip: Following the previous track’s theme, this one keeps the violent imagery going over a chilling beat.
Eightball & MJG – 9 Little Millimeta Boys: Bringing it back to the oldies, Eightball and MJG demonstrate deadly lyricism while keeping the flow classic.
Hypnotize Camp Posse (Project Pat) – Driveby: Collaboration was a huge part of Memphis and this example of Project Pat and Three 6 Mafia is no exception.
Prophet Posse (M-Child) – Orange Mound: This song’s production is wild and shows how gritty Memphis rap can get/sound.
Triple 6 Mafia – Wonabees: This track points out the influence that Memphis has had on the rap scene. Plus each person delivers, performance-wise.
Tear Da Club Up Thugs (Juicy J) – Slob On My Knob: One of the most iconic tracks on this list; Legendary Status.
Lil Noid – Hoe Call: An over-compressed bass line mixed with some hard-hitting production by Blackout can almost guarantee a banger.
Triple 6 Mafia – M.E.M.P.H.I.S. (Remix): This song is a highlight from Triple 6 Mafia’s discography with its solid verses and dynamic production.
Triple 6 Mafia – Da Summa: Something smooth to conclude this playlist, the more laidback side to Memphis Rap.
