Reading Time: 10 min read

26. Beyoncé, “Don’t Hurt Yourself”

[Lemonade]

Has Beyoncé ever rocked harder than “Don’t Hurt Yourself?” No, and it’s not even close. Furthermore, has she ever been this explicit? Also NO.

27. Declan McKenna, “Paracetamol”

[Liar – EP]

The moving “Paracetamol” was influenced by the  death of Leelah Alcorn (an Ohio transgender teen). Up-and-coming teenaged singer/songwriter Declan McKenna aims to ease the pain, build respect, and show support for the LGBT community

 

28. Pusha T ft. Jay-Z, “Drug Dealers Anonymous”

Jay-Z is one of the greatest MCs.  Pusha T is one of the most under-appreciated, but certainly among the elite.  Put them together to discuss their hustling past and you get F-I-R-E.

 

29. Sia, “Bird Set Free”

[This Is Acting]

There’s nothing better than an empowering, uplifting record, especially when it’s memorable.  The opener from Sia’s This Is Acting, “Bird Set Free,” is not only one of the best songs on the album, but one of her best ever.

 

30. Chance the Rapper featuring Lil Wayne & 2 Chainz, “No Problem”

[Coloring Book]

Chance the Rapper’s Coloring Book was filled with sensational songs – pretty much all of them! Single “No Problem” pairs Chance brilliantly with Lil Wayne & 2 Chainz for an irresistible “don’t mess with us” joint.  Chance the Rapper uses “No Problem” as a forum to flip the bird to record labels.


the musical hype

the musical hype (Brent Faulkner) has earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in music (music education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and freelance music blogger. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.

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