Number 3: Natasha Bedingfield “These Words” 2004
If there was ever a truly perfect pop-song, this was it. In 2004 Natasha Bedingfield released “These Words”, the second single off her debut album. The song was very popular across Europe, but only enjoyed mild Billboard success in the US. My only guess as to why “These Words” didn’t become a monster smash hit is that it was a little ahead of its time. The American appeal of Euro-dance pop was not yet a proven entity in 2004 and as a result, her record label didn’t promote “These Words” the way they would now. Nevertheless, all it takes is one listen to this song and you’re hooked. The composition here is highlighted by a drum machine that adds hip-hop flavors to an otherwise traditional pop song. Further, Bedingfield has a great voice with the right amount of confidence to really sell the hook in this song. This is as good as music gets.
Number 2:The Killers “Read my Mind” 2006
I expect a lot of backlash for putting a Killers song on a list that uses the word underrated. I know it’s not cool to like this band anymore, but I don’t care. “Read my Mind” is my favorite rock song of the past ten years. The song never made it to the Billboard Top 40, but it did receive some critical praise. In fact, Rolling Stone listed as the 12th best song of 2006. However, that’s not enough. This is one of the best rock songs of all time. The song’s sound is best characterized as a mixture between Bruce Springsteen and 80’s British New Wave pop. That of course makes for a unique blend, but the songs energy and passion are what make it a classic. Brandon Flowers vocals build slowly throughout the song until they reach epic arena style heights when Flowers sings “I wanna breathe that fire again.” What’s more, this song was featured in the famous “Mud Bowl” episode of Friday Night Lights. Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can’t Lose.
Number 1: Birdman & Lil Wayne “Stuntin’ Like my Daddy” 2006
There are plenty other rap songs that are certainly more important, more revolutionary, more artistic, and more impactful. However, this is simply the greatest rap song ever made. Don’t believe me? Listen to this song while driving fast in your car three different times over the next week. If you still don’t think it’s the greatest rap song of all time, then feel free to troll the Boat Shoes and Burritos message boards all you want.
In the mid-2000’s Lil Wayne transformed himself from a mildly
popular New Orleans rapper into the King of Hip-Hop. So in the time
period between 2005 and the release of the Carter III, Lil Wayne seemingly appeared
in every other rap song. As a result, when “Stuntin’ Like my Daddy” was released
in the Summer of 2006 it unfortunately got lost in the shuffle of about 30
other rap songs Weezy had dropped that same Summer. However, anyone who’s heard
this song more than once recognizes its greatness. Lil Wayne’s flow is never
better than it is here and the song contains the tightest rap lyrics I’ve
ever heard. The song’s composition contains a cool brass sound and has all the energy
of a Southern Marching Band. However, what’s so refreshing about this song is its
just straight-up rap featuring no samples or Macklemore style self-importance.
Give it a listen. The true greatness of this song cannot be described, but can
only be heard.
No comments:
Post a Comment