Critics often charge that rap music is synonymous with violence and misogyny. Buried within the treasure chest of hip-hop, however, is a bottomless pile of songs that pay homage to womanhood. In fact, for every "Biological Didn't Bother" there are 50 "Dear Mama"s. Not that anyone is complaining. (After all, fathers have had their share of hip-hop tributes) Moms absolutely deserve all the praise they get.
This Mother's Day, impress your mom by making her a playlist of these 10 mother-friendly hip-hop songs. (Tip: This also works on birthdays.)
9. Snoop Dogg - "I Love My Momma"
Through all the drama he faced at the time, Snoop Dogg still had the courage to declare love for momma. Hey, gangstas need love, too.
7. Brand Nubian - "Momma"
Lord Jamar, Sadat X, and Grand Puba (of Brand Nubian) take time off their busy schedule to thank their moms for all the whooping they endured in their early days. ("You might not like it now, but you'll thank me someday.") I guess momma was right after all.
6. Talib Kweli - "Momma Can You Hear Me"
You can almost hear the tear in Kweli's voice as he commends mom for her wisdom and sound advice on this precious gem that was originally recorded for Ear Drum. Kanye West lays the musical ground work -- a pristine piano loop backed by booming drums. Kweli waxes poetic, "She showed me how to shoot for the stars until I put a hole in the sky." It's an emotion-laden tribute that mom will truly cherish.
4. Canibus - "I Honor U"
"I Honor U," a standout cut from Canibus' self-titled debut, narrates the story of a child whose birth was surrounded by drama. I can relate to parts of Canibus' story because of the dramatic circumstances that accompanied my own arrival. "I Honor U" pays tribute to all mothers for their strength and passion, even in trying times.
3. Ghostface Killah - "All That I Got Is You"
Ghostface presents a heartbreaking account of his rough childhood, while acknowledging the ones that made life easier: mom and grandma. Crashing in a congested apartment, drinking sugar water, and plucking roaches out of a cereal box is all good because of mom's soothing presence. Mary J Blige's tear-jerk crooning and Poppa Wu's solemn words add a nostalgic touch.
2. Kanye West - "Hey Mama"
An adorable gesture of admiration and honor from producer/emcee Kanye West to his mom, Donda. The expression "hey mama" never sounded so good. Though the song was written while Kanye's mom was alive, he now performs it at his shows in her memory.












