2009 was a monumental year for hip-hop, a year that saw the genre explode with diverse sounds and innovative artists. This wasn't just about catchy hooks; it was about lyrical depth, groundbreaking production, and a cultural shift that resonated far beyond the airwaves. To celebrate this pivotal moment in rap history, and to introduce a new generation to the sounds that defined it, we've compiled a list of unforgettable tracks. From the infectious energy of a certain dance craze to the introspective vulnerability of a Cleveland native, the year showcased a remarkable range of talent. We hear the raw emotion and unmatched storytelling, the undeniable swagger and undeniable collaborations that redefined hip-hop's landscape. This wasn't just about individual artists; it was a collective moment of creative brilliance.
The songs selected for this list represent the multifaceted nature of 2009 rap, capturing both the celebratory anthems and the deeply personal reflections that characterized the year's output. You'll find anthems that defined a generation, tracks that explored complex themes of ambition and self-discovery, and collaborations that cemented the legacy of some of hip-hop's biggest names. Whether you were there experiencing it firsthand or are discovering it for the first time, this is a journey through a year that indelibly shaped the sound of modern hip-hop – a journey that you won't want to miss. Prepare to rediscover the raw power and undeniable artistry that made 2009 such a pivotal year.
1Crank That
Soulja Boy
2007
souljaboytellem.com
2Beautiful
Eminem
2009
Relapse: Refill
3Forever
Drake,Eminem,Kanye West,Lil Wayne
2009
Relapse: Refill
4Pursuit of Happiness
Kid Cudi
2009
5Empire State Of Mind
JAY-Z,Alicia Keys
2009
The Blueprint 3
6Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger
Daft Punk
2001
Discovery
7Hustlin'
Rick Ross
2006
Port Of Miami
8Cyclone
T-Pain,Baby Bash
2009
9Runaway
Kanye West,Pusha T
2010
My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
10My Life
50 Cent
2009
11I Get Money
50 Cent
2009
Curtis
12I'm On a Boat
The Lonely Island
2009
13Love Lockdown
Kanye West
2008
14Best I Ever Had
Drake
2009
So Far Gone
15Good Girls Go Bad
Cobra Starship
2009
16I Can Transform Ya
Lil Wayne,Chris Brown
2009
17Duffle Bag Boy
Playaz Circle
2009
18Throw Some D's
Rich Boy
2009
19A Milli
Lil Wayne
2008
Tha Carter III
20The Boss
T-Pain,Rick Ross
2008
21Ransom
Lil Wayne
2009
22Swagga Like Us
JAY-Z,Kanye West,Lil Wayne,T.I.
2009
23Bastard
Tyler, The Creator
2009
24D.O.A
JAY-Z
2009