The fusion of rap music with piano chords has led to the creation of some truly noteworthy compositions.
This amalgamation of elements from contrasting musical genres introduces a compelling richness, maintaining the inherent intensity of rap while adding rhythmic balance through the piano.
Traditionally known for its lyrical strength, rap’s dominance is sometimes perceived as overpowering.
However, the incorporation of piano not only contributes to an aesthetically pleasant sound but also enhances the overall depth of the composition.
This intriguing convergence has been explored by numerous artists, resulting in songs that have left indelible marks in the music industry.
Let’s delve into the resonance of these exceptional pieces, exploring the aspect that makes them sound so good.
Contents
- Rap Songs With Piano That Sound Good
- 1. “In Da Club” by 50 Cent
- 2. “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys
- 3. “Stan” by Eminem ft. Dido
- 4. “Still D.R.E.” by Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Dogg
- 5. “Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)” by Jay-Z
- 6. “Gin and Juice” by Snoop Dogg
- 7. “Hypnotize” by Notorious B.I.G.
- 8. “Runaway” by Kanye West ft. Pusha T
- 9. “Dear Mama” by 2Pac
- 10. “Juicy” by Notorious B.I.G.
- 11. “Ms. Jackson” by OutKast
- 12. “Changes” by 2Pac ft. Talent
- 13. “Drop It Like It’s Hot” by Snoop Dogg ft. Pharrell Williams
- 14. “N.Y. State of Mind” by Nas
- 15. “Dead Presidents II” by Jay-Z
- 16. “Kick, Push” by Lupe Fiasco
- 17. “My Name Is” by Eminem
- 18. “All of the Lights” by Kanye West
- 19. “Go DJ” by Lil Wayne
- 20. “Roses” by OutKast
- 21. “Stronger” by Kanye West
- 22. “The World Is Yours” by Nas
- 23. “Hey Ya!” by OutKast
- 24. “Forgot About Dre” by Dr. Dre ft. Eminem
- 25. “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” by Kanye West
- The Bottom Line
Rap Songs With Piano That Sound Good
1. “In Da Club” by 50 Cent
“In Da Club” by 50 Cent is a standout rap song with an unforgettable piano melody.
The hip-hop artist 50 Cent, born as Curtis Jackson, is renowned for his gritty yet catchy rhymes which contributed substantially to the 2000’s hip hop scene.
“In Da Club” was released in 2003 and quickly became a signature track for 50 Cent.
The song’s distinctive piano riff, accompanying beat and bass line combine to create a catchy and memorable track.
The lyrics of “In Da Club” give insights into the lifestyle and mindset of 50 Cent, known for his forthrightness and authenticity.
50 Cent’s raw and direct delivery is at the forefront of the song, his unique voice compels attention from the first line.
Furthermore, the song also stands as a depiction of the party and club scene, riddled with flashy and lavish elements.
The underlying piano throughout the song bridges the gap between classical music elements and the hard-edged beat of rap.
“In Da Club” is not merely a song, but a piece of 50 Cent’s narrative and legacy within the rap industry.
This song has universal appeal that transcends generations, embodying the essence of the rap genre with its undeniably addictive piano beat.
2. “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys
“Empire State of Mind” is a notable song from Jay-Z, a renowned rapper, featuring the talented vocalist Alicia Keys.
Released in 2009 on the album “The Blueprint 3”, this song blends rap and R&B to create a memorable track.
The song’s melody centers around brilliant piano work, which is truly distinctive and adds a certain flair to the track.
Alicia Keys performs the refrain, her soulful voice beautifully complementing the rap verses of Jay-Z.
The lyrics are a love letter to New York City, depicting the challenges and triumphs experienced by many residents.
Jay-Z himself was born and raised in the city, and his personal connection to New York shines through in his verses.
The song has since been covered by a variety of musicians, showing its broad appeal and recognizable melody.
One aspect that makes this song special is its melding of genres, proving rap and piano-centric music can blend seamlessly.
The captivating hook, the fluidity of the rap, and the emotive piano chords work together to make “Empire State of Mind” a standout track in the genre of piano-based rap songs.
3. “Stan” by Eminem ft. Dido
“Stan” by Eminem ft. Dido is a recognizable track in the rap genre which features notable piano melodies.
The lyricism of Eminem coupled with Dido’s haunting vocals over a repetitive piano loop make this song a unique piece within rap music.
Eminem’s storytelling ability in this song creates a vivid portrait of a fan’s intense obsession, reinforcing his status as a skilled lyricist.
The track’s raw emotion and deep songwriting stood out in the rap scene during the time of its release, further underlining Eminem’s versatility as an artist.
The constant piano melody in “Stan” provides a chilling backdrop to the song’s narrative, acting as a consistent reminder of the track’s sinister storyline.
Eminem lays his verses bare on this striking piano-driven beat, highlighting the song’s theme of desperation and obsession.
Meanwhile, Dido’s soft vocals weave seamlessly into the track, adding extra layers to Eminem’s storytelling and capturing the listener’s attention.
Without a doubt, “Stan” is a remarkable display of Eminem’s skilled lyricism and his ability to combine with diverse musical elements such as piano melodies.
4. “Still D.R.E.” by Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Dogg
“Still D.R.E.” is a classic track by famed rapper-producer Dr. Dre featuring longtime collaborator Snoop Dogg.
The song showcases piano samples, a definitive touch in many iconic rap songs, making it relevant to this list.
Not only does the usage of piano lend a rhythmic base to the song, but it also gives it a certain soulful aspect.
Furthermore, the lyricism in “Still D.R.E.” precisely narrates the experiences and thoughts of the artists.
While Dr. Dre, renowned for his production skills, creates a captivating backdrop, Snoop Dogg complements it with his unique vocal delivery.
The song, with its memorable beat and infectious rhythm, has become synonymous with the West Coast hip-hop era, of which both artists were pivotal figures.
“Still D.R.E.” served as a reaffirmation of both artists’ statuses in the rap game after a period of absence.
Its catchy rhythm and iconic piano riff, along with its blend of lyricism and storytelling, make it a memorable inclusion in any list of piano-driven rap songs.
5. “Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)” by Jay-Z
“Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)” is a hit single by the talented and renowned rapper, Jay-Z.
The track features a distinctive piano riff sampled from the Broadway musical, “Annie”.
Its lyrics provide a raw depiction of Jay-Z’s experiences growing up in the Brooklyn streets.
This song is regarded as a classic within the hip-hop genre due to its unique blend of street realism and vibrant melody.
The creativity behind integrating a sample from a Broadway show into a rap track illustrates Jay-Z’s dynamic range as an artist.
His delivery is both relatable and engaging, resonating with listeners from all walks of life.
Most notably, the song showcases the resilience of those living in tough conditions, as reflected in the repeated chorus, “It’s a hard knock life”.
Jay-Z’s authentic storytelling is one of his strongest points as a rapper, and “Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)” is surely a highlight in this regard.
6. “Gin and Juice” by Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg is undeniably one of the most influential figures in the hip-hop industry, with “Gin and Juice” being one of his most recognized tracks.
The song was produced by Dr. Dre featuring a catchy piano riff that still resonates with many listeners today.
“Gin and Juice” showcases Snoop’s laid-back yet engaging rap style that has made him a fan favorite for decades.
With its distinct beat and smooth piano undertones, “Gin and Juice” can be seen as an example of how piano can add a unique touch to rap music.
Its lyrics talk about a day in the life in the Long Beach, California suburbs where Snoop grew up, shedding light on the life and culture there.
While it maintains a light-hearted tone, the song does address some serious social issues, elevated by Snoop’s poetic and straightforward delivery.
From backyard parties to the practice of ‘set tripping’, Snoop’s descriptive rhymes paint a vivid picture of West Coast lifestyle, all the while flowing seamlessly over the piano-infused beat.
Without a doubt, “Gin and Juice” stands as a relevant rap song that incorporates piano chords to highlight the storytelling aspect of the genre.
7. “Hypnotize” by Notorious B.I.G.
The song “Hypnotize” is by the late artist, Notorious B.I.G.
His real name was Christopher George Latore Wallace, widely known for his candid lyrics and distinct flow.
“Hypnotize” is a standout with its distinct sound defined by a memorable piano loop.
The piano’s harmonious rhythm complements B.I.G.’s unique vocal style, exemplifying the intersection of classic and modern elements.
The lyrics of the song represent Notorious B.I.G.’s experiences and personal relation with the burgeoning hip-hop scene of the 1990s.
They portray his life’s challenges and victories, transporting listeners to his time and place.
Despite the song’s release in 1997, its influence and legacy stretch so far that it remains one of the most recognized hip-hop songs today.
The constant piano beat sustains the song’s tension and rhythm, underpinning the narrative of the lyrics.
“Hypnotize” is a clear representation of how piano can be intimately incorporated within hip-hop to create a distinct and catchy sound.
Notorious B.I.G has left his mark of ingenuity and influence on the genre with this unforgettable track.
8. “Runaway” by Kanye West ft. Pusha T
“Runaway” by Kanye West ft. Pusha T is indeed one of those rap songs that uses piano effectively.
Featuring unmistakable piano chords that set the tone for the song, Kanye delivers introspective lyrics that lay bare his flaws and insecurities.
West’s raw honesty and self-awareness seem to resonate with a wide range of listeners, showing a vulnerable side of the rapper not often seen.
Accompanied by Pusha T, both artists discuss past mistakes and failed relationships, providing a thought-provoking narrative.
The punctuation of poetic rhymes by Pusha T gives the song an added layer, highlighting the complexity of self-reflection.
The chorus of “Runaway” is hard-hitting and memorable, with Kanye urging listeners to “runaway from me, baby”.
Throughout the song, the piano remains a constant, adding weight and grounding the lofty emotions explored in the lyrics.
In sum, “Runaway” offers a unique listening experience, featuring both slick rap verses and emotive piano motifs, making it a standout in the realm of piano-infused rap songs.
9. “Dear Mama” by 2Pac
“Dear Mama” is a song created by the renowned rap artist 2Pac.
The track features undulating piano rhythms, providing a soulful base to the raw and emotive lyrics.
The key side of the music is the piano, which is more than just a background instrument in this piece.
It works in harmony with 2Pac’s prominent and expressive vocals, weaving a tale steeped in the nuances of inner-city living and personal reflections.
The lyrics express a deep-found respect for his mother, acknowledging her struggles and sacrifices.
It’s an intimate slice of 2Pac’s life, detailing his upbringing and experiences with a sincerity that resonates with many listeners.
The dynamic between the piano and 2Pac’s lyricism creates a balanced soundscape, showcasing the versatile use of piano in rap music.
Ultimately, “Dear Mama” is a compelling example of how the piano can be implemented effectively within the context of rap.
It provides an insight into how a single instrument can play a significant role, both musically and emotively, within the complex structure of a rap song.
10. “Juicy” by Notorious B.I.G.
The song “Juicy” by Notorious B.I.G. is a renowned composition with a commanding piano backdrop.
Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls, was a key figure in East Coast hip hop during the 1990s.
His approach to storytelling through his lyrics set him apart in the music scene.
“Juicy” is recognized for its catchy piano melody which lays the foundation for Biggie’s rhymes.
The piano riffs coupled with the rapper’s unique flow result in an infectious and memorable tune.
![The Notorious B.I.G. - Juicy (Official Video) [4K]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/_JZom_gVfuw/0.jpg)
“Juicy”‘s lyrics cover Biggie’s harsh beginnings and triumphant rise to success, resonating with many listeners.
His narrative about overcoming hardships is strikingly portrayed over the distinctive piano backdrop.
It also showcases his lyrical prowess and storytelling ability, making the track a staple in his catalog.
The humility and honesty embedded in “Juicy”‘s lyrics justifies why it’s regarded as one of Biggie’s best works.
Even after his premature demise, Biggie’s “Juicy” continues to inspire and remains a classic hip-hop track.
11. “Ms. Jackson” by OutKast
OutKast is an influential hip-hop duo from Atlanta, famed for their dynamic and innovative music.
“Ms. Jackson” is one of their most popular songs, featuring compelling piano arrangements that seamlessly blend with their rap lyrics.
The song, released in 2000, brilliantly showcases both André 3000 and Big Boi‘s lyrical prowess.
The piano intro immediately sets the rhythmic groundwork for the song, creating a memorable melody that’s hard to forget.
What makes “Ms. Jackson” remarkable is its honest storytelling, relaying a personal apology to the mother of André 3000’s ex-partner Erykah Badu.
This authentic narrative paired with a smooth piano-driven beat creates a unique soundscape that resonates with many listeners.
Layered with emotive piano riffs and statement-making beats, the song delivers a unique blend of pure rap and soulful melodies.
André 3000 and Big Boi’s distinctive rap styles complement the piano accompaniment, pushing the envelop of genre boundaries.
Despite its complex lyrics, the song maintains a catchy, easy-to-follow flow, making it a great listen.
Thus, “Ms. Jackson” by OutKast is not just a typical rap song, but an artful integration of heartfelt storytelling, notable lyrical ability, and the timeless allure of the piano.
12. “Changes” by 2Pac ft. Talent
“Changes” is an iconic song by rapper Tupac Shakur, commonly known as 2Pac, featuring the artist Talent.
This song is unique for its outstanding piano riff, which brings a certain sophistication to the rap genre.
2Pac is revered in the world of rap for his thought-provoking lyrics and strong socio-political commentary.
The song “Changes” epitomises this approach, shedding light on the issues of poverty, racism, and police brutality.
The rhythm of the piano in this song pairs exceedingly well with 2Pac’s heartfelt verses.
The underlying piano tune in this track evokes a sense of understated urgency, which suits the critical theme of the song.
While the song is inherently political, it does not alienate listeners who simply enjoy good music.
The interplay between the piano, the beats, and 2Pac’s riveting lyrics make “Changes” a standout track.
Despite its release in the late ’90s, “Changes” remains relevant today due to its timeless sound and theme.
In an era of bling-focused rap, “Changes” stays memorable for its intense social commentary and distinctive piano backdrop.
Rap enthusiasts and casual listeners alike can enjoy this song because of its intrinsic musical brilliance and the raw emotion expressed by 2Pac.
Without a doubt, “Changes” will continue to sound good and will remain a classic in the rap genre for its employment of the piano and its thought-provoking lyrics.
13. “Drop It Like It’s Hot” by Snoop Dogg ft. Pharrell Williams
“Drop It Like It’s Hot” by Snoop Dogg ft. Pharrell Williams is one of those unique rap songs that beautifully incorporate a piano melody into its composition.
The minimalistic piano sound blends with an interesting rhythm pattern to create an infectious beatscape.
The Snoop Dogg’s silky smooth flow layers beautifully over this beat, providing a relaxed yet compelling listening experience.
The catchy hooks and memorable lyrics make this song a notable one within the rap genre.
Pharrell Williams’ clear, distinct vocals contribute to the overall charm of the track.
The song is marked by its casual, laid-back vibes, that make it enjoyable at any time.
The subtle piano notes not only enhance the piece but also tie it together, emblematic of the potential of piano in rap music.
This song is a clear demonstration of Snoop Dogg’s signature vocal style and Pharrell’s crisp production.
The reinterpretation of piano in this composition highlights the versatility of the instrument in an unconventional genre.
With “Drop It Like It’s Hot” Snoop Dogg and Pharrell Williams have firmly established their creative genius and the song remains a firm favorite amongst fans.
It is a vivid example of the potential amalgamation of piano in a genre that’s rhythm and poetry.
It’s a refreshing shift from the usual rap tracks and opens up diverse musical possibilities.
14. “N.Y. State of Mind” by Nas
Picture a young Nasir Jones, better known as Nas, navigating the rugged streets of Queensbridge, NYC.
The song “N.Y. State of Mind” serves as a detailed narration of his reality.
What really sets this song apart is its raw honesty paired with a dusky piano melody.
Nas makes use of vivid storytelling, transmitting raw emotions through every poignant line.
The hook “I never sleep, / ‘Cause sleep is the cousin of death” is a hard-hitting revelation from a young man surrounded by urban decay.
One of the track’s major attractions is the crisp piano riff, a sample from jazz musician Joe Chambers.
A stark contrast to the gritty lyrics, the piano imprints a touch of sophistication and complexity.
This unforgettable piano melody creates an almost haunting backdrop to Nas’s visceral lyricism.
The song has cemented its place as a classic in the world of hip-hop, a vivid depiction of urban life narrative over an unforgettable piano beat.
15. “Dead Presidents II” by Jay-Z
“Dead Presidents II” is a compelling song by Jay-Z, an acclaimed rapper and music mogul.
This track features piano accompaniment that harmonizes with Jay-Z’s lyrical flow, creating a pleasing sound.
The song, integrated in his debut album “Reasonable Doubt“, crafts a distinct vibe showcasing Jay-Z’s storytelling prowess.
The lyrical content explores themes like aspiration, hustling, and struggles, reflecting the reality of urban life.
Jay-Z’s compelling lyrics and the rhythmic piano music create a song that is still recognized and respected among fans and critics.
The combination of piano and hip-hop in “Dead Presidents II” offers a unique stylistic approach in the rap music of the mid-’90s.
Despite its age, this song continues to be a significant influence in the world of hip-hop music.
The artistic style and cultural significance of “Dead Presidents II” have cemented its place among iconic rap compositions.
The song’s lasting popularity demonstrates its resonance with a diverse audience, further proving its relevance within the genre.
Jay-Z’s “Dead Presidents II” is not just a good rap song with piano; it is an enduring representation of the genre.
16. “Kick, Push” by Lupe Fiasco
One song that blends rap and piano brilliantly is “Kick, Push” by Lupe Fiasco.
This song tells a narrative about a young boy discovering his love for skateboarding.
Using the piano, Lupe Fiasco establishes a mellow, almost introspective beat.
The lyrics then build a visceral picture of the highs and lows the boy experiences in his journey.
The flow of Lupe Fiasco’s rap is undoubtedly smooth, it’s neither too aggressive nor too placid.
Lupe Fiasco is a Chicago-based rapper, famous for his insightful themes and his skillful lyricism.
In “Kick, Push”, Lupe uses skateboarding as a metaphor, demonstrating his knack for storytelling.
On the surface, it’s a song about a skateboarder, but deeper, it’s about navigating life’s challenges and finding your path.
The piano beat of the song adds complementing textures, helping shape the narrative and convey the various emotions.
Thus, Lupe Fiasco’s “Kick, Push” makes a solid case for the use of piano in rap music.
17. “My Name Is” by Eminem
In “My Name Is” by Eminem, the artist employs a distinctive piano sample to enhance the track’s melodic appeal.
This song, released as part of Eminem’s second studio album, “The Slim Shady LP”, showcases the rapper’s innovative incorporation of piano into rap music.
The piano’s tuneful rhythm couples seamlessly with Eminem’s raw and aggressive rapping style, producing a harmonious fusion of musical elements.
Eminem’s compelling storytelling, delivered through rapid-fire, pun-laden verses over a subdued piano accompaniment, gives the song its unique flavor.
The lyrics, marked by Eminem’s typical blend of humor and commentary, offer an intimate look into the artist’s tumultuous personal life and early struggles.
The use of piano in this track also acts as a vehicle to convey the highs and lows of his narrative, complementing his expressive lyrical delivery.
“My Name Is” was an early indication of Eminem’s creative flair for melding traditional rap elements with surprising influences, such as piano arrangements.
It remains a shining example of how effective the intersection of rap and piano can sound.
18. “All of the Lights” by Kanye West
“All of the Lights” is an innovative track from Kanye West’s fifth studio album.
What makes the song unique in rap music is its prominent piano riff.
The piano music combined with West’s passionate vocals creates a gripping musical experience.
Instrumentally, the song is richly textured with piano, drawing listeners into its unique sound.
Apart from piano, “All of the Lights” incorporates robust orchestral arrangements, adding to its musical depth.
The song carries the distinctive storytelling style of Kanye West, narrating the struggles of a fraught relationship.
The musical prowess of Kanye West is apparent in this song, as he successfully fuses different styles together.
The piano bits are not just background music but play a central role, setting the tempo and mood of the song.
“All of the Lights” shows how piano can be used in hip-hop to build intense musical narratives.
The song hints at the diverse musical influences that Kanye West incorporates into his creations.
Through “All of the Lights”, Kanye West illustrates that rap songs with piano can sound incredibly good.
19. “Go DJ” by Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne is an unforgettable figure in the world of hip hop.
The track “Go DJ” is from his third studio album, Tha Carter.
This song exhibits unique artistry by combining Wayne’s rap with piano.
The piano serves as the fundamental element of the song’s beat.
When listening to “Go DJ,” its musicality stands out as impressive.
In the lyrics, Wayne showcases his rhythmic flow and creative wordplay.
He communicates a clear message to his listeners through his verses.
Throughout the song, the piano remains consistent, echoing the rhythm of the lyrics.
The harmonious blending of piano and rap makes the track pleasing to the ear..
“Go DJ” by Lil Wayne is a classic example of a rap song with good piano.
This song serves as an exemplary model for aspiring artists wishing to incorporate piano into hip hop.
20. “Roses” by OutKast
“Roses” by OutKast is an undoubted classic from the famous American rap duo.
The song, released as part of their double album “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below” in 2003, manages to blend various musical genres, such as hip-hop, soul, and pop into a pleasant listening experience.
As artists, Andre 3000 and Big Boi (the two members of OutKast) are known for their genre-bending creativity and “Roses” is no exception.
The lyrics are clever, witty and, at times, hilariously cutting, offering both a love story and a critique of said love interest.
It features piano prominently, which adds a unique melodic line to the song, giving it a catchy and distinctive sound.
This usage of piano, melded with the rap verses, creates a fun, rhythmic and tuneful song that stands out within the rap genre.
“Roses” has influenced many current artists and continues to be appreciated by listeners around the globe because of its unique composition and memorable lyrics.
Through “Roses,” OverKast has successfully demonstrated how piano can be used effectively within rap music to create engaging and memorable tunes.
21. “Stronger” by Kanye West
One of the most recognizable songs by American rapper Kanye West is “Stronger”.
“Stronger” is uniquely infused with piano sounds, juxtaposed with electronic beats, adding to its appeal.
The song samples Daft Punk’s “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger”, demonstrating the artist’s creativity in blending different music genres.
While the song’s lyrics highlight struggles, it also promotes a message of resilience and determination.
Many enthusiasts of the rap genre point to “Stronger” as a key example of how piano can complement rap in music composition.
Despite being a celebrated icon in the rap industry, Kanye West is also known to be a versatile artist, crossing over to other music styles.
Kanye West’s “Stronger” left a significant imprint on the rap industry with its distinctive piano elements and varied music styles.
22. “The World Is Yours” by Nas
“The World Is Yours” by Nas is a memorable track from the 1994 album, Illmatic.
This song prominently features the piano keys being sampled from iconic jazz musician Ahmad Jamal’s “I Love Music”.
The rich piano melody contrasts the lyrical content, which provides insight into life within inner city neighborhoods.
Nas, born Nasir Jones, hails from Queensbridge, New York, and this song draws from his life experiences.
“The World Is Yours” was the album’s second single, and it gained immediate acclaim for its skillful use of instrumentals, particularly the piano.
The piano sample used in this song serves to highlight Nas’ storytelling ability and lyrical prowess.
His message, that one can rise above their circumstances and achieve greatness, is asserted with the chorus “Whose world is this? The world is yours.”
The remarkable blending of rap and piano in this song set it apart from others in the music scene at the time.
This song further solidified Nas as a pivotal figure in the East Coast hip-hop movement.
23. “Hey Ya!” by OutKast
“Hey Ya!” by OutKast quickly became an iconic song in the world of rap following its release.
The song is comprised of vivid lyrics with intense energy carried throughout, making it unforgettable.
The unique piano melodies in the instrumentals of this song set it apart in the hip-hop genre.
While OutKast is known for utlizing a range of instruments in their tracks, the piano stands out in “Hey Ya!”.
These piano rhythms are perfectly juxtaposed with the rhythmic spoken-word style of Andre 3000.
The song’s lyrical content, revolving around love and relationships, is both relatable and humorous.
“Hey Ya!” without a doubt significantly contributed to OutKast’s already impressive discography.
Its uniqueness remains impactful in the world of rap, as various rap artists have attempted to replicate its unique sound.
The song is still celebrated as a classic, and the piano accelerates and fortifies the track’s strong reception.
It’s an example of rap’s potential when fused with other genres, like pop and soul music.
In summary, “Hey Ya!” provides an outlet for boundary-pushing creativity, and this is what gives it a timeless appeal.
24. “Forgot About Dre” by Dr. Dre ft. Eminem
The song “Forgot About Dre” by Dr. Dre featuring Eminem is a significant track in the context of rap songs with piano that sound good.
This catchy tune showcases the profound lyrical talents of Dr. Dre and Eminem
Both artists have shaped contemporary hip-hop and maintained relevance over the years.
The piano riff in “Forgot About Dre” is exceptionally distinctive, and immediately recognisable even to casual listeners.
This element of the track makes it captivating, and enhancement to its overall appeal.
“Forgot About Dre” utilises its piano score to create a rhythmic, though simple backdrop for its complex lyrical delivery.
The genius combination of this in-sync rhythm with assertive rap verses produces a harmonised result that speaks loads about the songwriters’ skills.
Dr. Dre and Eminem leave their identifying marks all over this track, mixing their unique styles into a complementary final product.
The track seamlessly transitions between the piano-bearing choruses and lyrically complex verses making it a return point for listeners.
The song lays out the remarkable ability of rap to engage with a diverse range of instrumentals, including the piano.
This is a typical example of how piano can add depth and charm to rap songs when appropriately used.
25. “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” by Kanye West
Kanye West’s “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” opens with an enticing piano melody that sets the tone for the rest of the track.
It’s a song by eminent rapper Kanye West from his third studio album, ‘Graduation’.
The piano core adds a unique, understated elegance to the strong and bold rap verses of Kanye.
Lyrically, “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” represents West’s defiance against the criticisms and expectations imposed on him by society.
He expresses his struggle with fame, wealth, and personal fulfillment through the verses.
The song’s captivating hook “La, la, la la/ Wait ’til I get my money right,” sticks with listeners long after West’s rap has ended.
The piano background throughout the song complements West’s lyrical flow and adds to the appeal of the song.
“Can’t Tell Me Nothing” demonstrates Kanye West’s visionary take on hip-hop, blending in diverse elements like the piano to create a distinct and memorable sound.
The piano-centric approach adopted in this song enriches the sonic fabric of the track, making it a memorable track in rap music.
The Bottom Line
Rap songs with piano truly create a unique, appealing sound.
Mixing hard-hitting rap lyrics with the smooth tones of piano results in something truly special.
It’s a blend of raw grit and delicate harmonies, melding two distinct music styles into one.
Definitely, it’s a style that’s not going away anytime soon, as it continues to captivate listeners and push the boundaries of what we know and love about both rap and piano music.
These tracks prove that music holds no barriers and any blend of genres can result in amazing sounds.
So, don’t hesitate to explore this genre further, who knows, you might discover your new favorite tune.
