27 Best Underrated Rap Songs: Rap’s Hidden Gems

Hey music mavens and beat spinners! Dive into the uncharted depths of the rap world with our curated list of “27 Best Underrated Rap Songs”.

It’s a treasure trove of lyrical genius and pulsating beats that didn’t make it to the limelight, but totally deserve your ears and decks! Let’s explore.

Here are the best underrated rap songs that you can check out:

List Of Best Underrated Rap Songs

Best underrated rap songs songs in a list format:

1. Blu & Exile – “Cold Hearted” (Below the Heavens)

Here’s an unsung jewel from Blu & Exile. “Cold Hearted” is a profound tune from their “Below the Heavens” album. With Blu’s razor-sharp rhymes and Exile’s soulful beat, this song delivers raw emotion in every verse.

2. Big K.R.I.T – “The Vent” (Return of 4eva)

If you want to experience rap as a pure art form, try “The Vent” by Big K.R.I.T from his “Return of 4eva” mixtape. K.R.I.T’s lyrics speak volumes about personal struggles and society’s issues, riding smoothly over a hauntingly beautiful instrumental.

3. Elzhi – “Memory Lane” (Elmatic)

Elzhi’s lyrical prowess in “Memory Lane” off his “Elmatic” mixtape paints a vivid picture of his youth in Detroit. It’s an incredible nod to Nas’s original, but with a unique twist.

4. Rapsody – “Crown” (Crown)

From her “Crown” EP, Rapsody’s title track serves as a powerful anthem about self-respect and resilience. A lyrically intense song that showcases Rapsody’s flawless ability to deliver hard-hitting bars with elegance.

5. Oddisee – “Own Appeal” (Tangible Dream)

“Own Appeal,” a track from Oddisee’s “Tangible Dream” mixtape, is an eloquent expression of individuality and self-determination. Oddisee’s introspective lyrics over a mellow beat make this song a hidden gem.

6. Phonte – “Euphorium (Back To The Light)” (No News Is Good News)

Phonte’s “Euphorium (Back To The Light)” from his “No News Is Good News” album is a deeply touching piece about life’s ups and downs. Phonte’s sincere delivery makes this song a masterpiece.

7. Rejjie Snow – “Rainbows” (Dear Annie)

“Rainbows” from Rejjie Snow’s “Dear Annie” album is a funky, psychedelic ride. It showcases Snow’s capability to bend genres while still delivering rap verses that hit home.

8. Little Brother – “The Feel” (May the Lord Watch)

“The Feel” from Little Brother’s “May the Lord Watch” album is a classic hip-hop track with a modern twist. Their conscious lyrics over nostalgic beats transport you back to the golden age of rap.

9. Jay Electronica – “Better In Tune With The Infinite” (A Written Testimony)

From his debut album “A Written Testimony”, Jay Electronica’s “Better In Tune With The Infinite” is an introspective track. It’s a thoughtful blend of spirituality and social commentary that deserves a wider audience.

10. MF DOOM – “Doomsday” (Operation: Doomsday)

“Doomsday” off MF DOOM’s “Operation: Doomsday” album is a timeless piece of art. DOOM’s unconventional rhyme schemes and lyrical genius make this track a treat for any rap enthusiast.

11. Bishop Nehru – “Fickle Mind$” (Nehruvia)

“Fickle Mind$” is a standout track from Bishop Nehru’s debut mixtape “Nehruvia”. Nehru’s calm demeanor and insightful lyrics shine through, making this an underrated classic in underground hip-hop.

12. Ka – “Honor Killed The Samurai” (Honor Killed The Samurai)

“Honor Killed The Samurai”, the title track from Ka’s album, is a haunting narrative of street life. Ka’s poetic storytelling is a breath of fresh air in the realm of hip-hop.

13. Flatbush Zombies – “Palm Trees” (BetterOffDEAD)

“Palm Trees” from the mixtape “BetterOffDEAD” by Flatbush Zombies is a psychedelic masterpiece. Its dreamy soundscape paired with gritty lyrics make this track an underrated standout.

14. Shad – “Keep Shining” (TSOL)

In his track “Keep Shining” from the album “TSOL”, Canadian rapper Shad delivers a positive, insightful message about women empowerment. His clever wordplay and smooth flow are truly a marvel to listen to.

15. Freddie Gibbs & Madlib – “Shame” (Pinata)

“Shame” off the “Pinata” album by Freddie Gibbs & Madlib is a perfect blend of Gibbs’ street-smart lyrics and Madlib’s soulful production. This track truly showcases the synergy between the rapper and the producer.

16. Skyzoo – “Inheritance” (Music For My Friends)

“Inheritance” from Skyzoo’s “Music For My Friends” album is a heartfelt tribute to family and heritage. Skyzoo’s intricate rhymes paint a touching picture, making this song a hidden gem.

17. Milo – “Sorcerer” (Who Told You To Think??!!?!?!?!)

“Sorcerer” from Milo’s “Who Told You To Think??!!?!?!?!” album is a thought-provoking track. Milo’s philosophical musings over a jazzy instrumental make this song a standout in alternative hip-hop.

18. Brother Ali – “Forest Whitiker” (Shadows on the Sun)

“Forest Whitiker” off Brother Ali’s “Shadows on the Sun” album is an uplifting anthem about self-acceptance. Ali’s positive message combined with his passionate delivery makes this track truly inspiring.

19. Aesop Rock – “Daylight” (Labor Days)

“Daylight” from Aesop Rock’s “Labor Days” album showcases his complex lyricism and unique style. It’s a track that challenges the listener with its depth and wordplay.

20. Mick Jenkins – “Jazz” (The Water[s])

“Jazz” from Mick Jenkins’ “The Water[s]” mixtape is a metaphor-rich track about the importance of authenticity. Jenkins’ thought-provoking lyrics flow effortlessly over the laid-back jazz beat.

21. Isaiah Rashad – “Heavenly Father” (Cilvia Demo)

Isaiah Rashad’s “Heavenly Father” from the “Cilvia Demo” EP is a raw and introspective song about faith and personal struggles. Rashad’s emotive delivery over a soulful beat makes this song resonate deeply.

22. Murs – “Everything” (Murs For President)

“Everything” from Murs’ “Murs For President” album is a heartwarming track about love and loss. Murs’ storytelling skills and his ability to invoke emotions are truly captivating.

23. Open Mike Eagle – “Ziggy Starfish” (A Special Episode Of)

Open Mike Eagle’s “Ziggy Starfish” from the EP “A Special Episode Of” is a smart and quirky track about the anxieties of social pressure. Eagle’s offbeat style and witty lyrics make this track a must-listen for alternative hip-hop fans.

24. Roc Marciano – “Snow” (Marcberg)

“Snow” off Roc Marciano’s “Marcberg” album is a showcase of his laid-back style and vivid storytelling. This track’s minimalist production and raw lyrics create a moody, noir-like atmosphere that’s hard to forget.

25. Denzel Curry – “Taboo” (TA13OO)

“Taboo” from Denzel Curry’s “TA13OO” album is a haunting track that discusses sensitive topics. Curry’s lyrical versatility and depth shine throughout this song, making it an underrated masterpiece.

26. Joey Bada$$ – “Waves” (1999)

“Waves” is a standout track from Joey Bada$$’s mixtape “1999”. The song showcases Joey’s nostalgic style, reminiscent of the 90s era of hip-hop. His potent lyrics and smooth flow are sure to leave you mesmerized.

27. Black Milk – “Sunday’s Best / Monday’s Worst” (No Poison No Paradise)

“Sunday’s Best / Monday’s Worst” from Black Milk’s “No Poison No Paradise” album is a two-part narrative about the dichotomies of life. Black Milk’s captivating storytelling and soulful production make this song a truly unique gem.

Fun Facts: Best Underrated Rap Songs

1. Blu & Exile – “Cold Hearted”

Fun fact: This track was created during a single recording session, with Blu laying down his introspective rhymes in just one take. The organic nature of their process is evident in the raw authenticity of the song.

2. Oddisee – “Own Appeal”

Fun fact: Oddisee, the multitalented rapper and producer, actually creates all of his beats himself. His musical talent extends beyond just writing clever bars – he is also an accomplished instrumentalist.

3. Jay Electronica – “Better In Tune With The Infinite”

Fun fact: Jay Electronica recorded parts of his debut album “A Written Testimony” in 40 days and 40 nights, echoing the biblical story of Noah’s Ark. His spiritual inclinations permeate the album, making it a unique experience.

4. MF DOOM – “Doomsday”

Fun fact: MF DOOM used to perform wearing a mask, inspired by the Marvel Comics character Doctor Doom. His unconventional approach extended to his music, making him a beloved figure in the underground rap scene.

5. Ka – “Honor Killed The Samurai”

Fun fact: Ka, apart from being an underrated lyricist, is also a firefighter in New York City. His life experiences often find their way into his profound lyrics, making his music deeply relatable.

6. Shad – “Keep Shining”

Fun fact: Shad was born in Kenya to Rwandan parents and later moved to Canada. His diverse cultural background greatly influences his music, often incorporating thoughtful social and cultural commentaries.

7. Aesop Rock – “Daylight”

Fun fact: Aesop Rock has one of the largest vocabularies in hip-hop. A study showed that his first four albums contain 7,392 unique words, outperforming Shakespeare’s 5,170 words used across his entire written works.

8. Denzel Curry – “Taboo”

Fun fact: Denzel Curry’s album “TA13OO” is divided into three acts – Light, Gray, and Dark. Each act represents different themes and moods, with “Taboo” being the lead single from the Light section.

9. Joey Bada$$ – “Waves”

Fun fact: Joey Bada$$ was just 17 years old when he released “1999”. The mixtape garnered critical acclaim, and “Waves” was praised for its lyricism and sound, reminiscent of 90s hip-hop.

10. Black Milk – “Sunday’s Best / Monday’s Worst”

Fun fact: This track combines two contrasting pieces into one seamless narrative. Black Milk’s ability to craft a coherent story from such diverse components demonstrates his exceptional storytelling skills.

So, there you have it – 27 hidden rap gems to spice up your playlist. Deep dives into lesser-known rap territory, always bring forth great tunes. Keep exploring, keep vibing!

Thanks for reading.

TBone