30 | Mos Def - "Mathematics" | Download | 
Following the success of Black Star's debut album, expectations were high for Mos Def's solo debut, Black on Both Sides. Innovative songs like "Umi Says" and "Mathematics" helped Mos meet and surpass those expectations.
29 | Brand Nubian - "Slow Down" | Download |
"Slow Down" is chock full of wisecracks I'd love to put on a t-shirt someday. Sada X spends his entire verse on this song ridiculing crackheads: "On your crack card you're getting only A's and C's for come back."
28 | Big Daddy Kane - "Ain't No Half Steppin'" | Download |
Mr. Asiatic shows us the definition of microphone presence on arguably his biggest smash.
27 | Mobb Deep - "Shook Ones II" | Download |
Havoc's steely production drives his partner's salvo of threats on "Shook Ones II."
26 | Kurtis Blow - "The Breaks" | Download |
Kurtis Blow breakfest still rocks parties all across America. Suddenly, you find yourself bobbing and snapping and you can't even explain why.
25 | Talib Kweli - "Get By" | Buy |
Kweli's jam about survival helped him make the transition from "one half of a dynamic duo" to "strong solo artist."
24 | Beastie Boys - "Paul Revere" | Download |
Bad boys of rap tell a fictional story of the group's formation, while Rick Rubin works up a snake charmer.
23 | MC Lyte - "Paper Thin" | Download |
Lyte's tough talk on this smash solidified her arrival as the new queen in town.
22 | The Pharcyde - "Passin' Me By" | Download |
A lazy summer song perfect for lounging on the loveseat while enjoying a cold beverage.
21 | dead prez - "Hip-Hop" | Download |
A bouncy anthem that showcased DP's versatility while underlining a commitment to activism.
