Joey Bada$$ has become one of the most respected figures in modern hip-hop, thanks to his lyrical prowess, nostalgic sound, and commitment to staying true to the roots of the genre. With a career spanning over a decade, Joey has dropped numerous tracks that have resonated deeply with fans. Here are ten of his top songs that showcase his versatility, lyricism, and influence on hip-hop.
1. “Paper Trail$” (2012)
One of Joey’s most iconic tracks, “Paper Trail$” is a reflective anthem about the struggles and contradictions of fame and success. The song’s introspective lyrics, paired with a soulful beat, made it a standout on his 1999 mixtape and a defining moment in his career.
2. “Survival Tactics” ft. Capital STEEZ (2012)
“Survival Tactics” is one of the strongest tracks from 1999 and features the late Capital STEEZ. With a raw, gritty beat and thought-provoking lyrics, the song touches on survival in a harsh environment and sets the tone for Joey’s rise in the underground scene.
3. “Christ Conscious” (2015)
From his B4.DA.$$ album, “Christ Conscious” is a powerful track that showcases Joey’s deep spirituality and philosophical thinking. With sharp, impactful verses, the song addresses themes of self-awareness and personal growth, making it a standout track on the album.
4. “Land of the Free” (2017)
“Land of the Free” is an unapologetic political statement from Joey, tackling issues of systemic injustice and inequality in America. The track is a perfect example of Joey’s growth as an artist, using his platform to speak on pressing societal issues while delivering his signature introspective bars.
5. “Devastated” (2017)
“Devastated” is an uplifting anthem about overcoming struggles and finding success despite the odds. With its catchy hook and feel-good vibes, it became one of Joey’s most commercially successful tracks, allowing him to cross over to a broader audience without compromising his authenticity.
6. “No. 99” (2015)
“No. 99” is a standout track from B4.DA.$$ that showcases Joey’s reflective side. The song addresses his rise to fame and the pressure that comes with it, while the mellow beat and smooth flow create a sense of introspection and vulnerability.
7. “Paper Trail$ (Remix)” ft. Freddie Gibbs (2015)
The remix of “Paper Trail$” features Freddie Gibbs and adds a fresh twist to an already great song. With Freddie’s gritty verse complementing Joey’s original bars, the remix solidifies “Paper Trail$” as one of his top tracks, providing a more layered, nuanced version of the classic.
8. “Hazeus View” (2015)
In “Hazeus View,” Joey takes listeners on an introspective journey through his mind, exploring themes of spirituality and personal growth. The track’s jazzy production and deep lyrics highlight Joey’s ability to balance lyrical complexity with a soulful sound, making it one of his best songs.
9. “For My People” (2017)
“For My People” is an emotionally charged track from All-Amerikkkan Badass that touches on issues of race and oppression. With its powerful message and passionate delivery, it’s a track that resonates deeply with listeners who are seeking an artist unafraid to tackle the tough subjects in society.
10. “The Light” (2017)
A standout from All-Amerikkkan Badass, “The Light” is a soulful, introspective track where Joey explores themes of love, personal growth, and overcoming struggles. The song’s uplifting message, paired with its smooth production, makes it one of Joey’s most memorable tracks.
Joey Bada$$’s ability to craft compelling stories and tackle a wide range of themes—from personal struggles to societal issues—has made him one of the most influential voices in hip-hop. These ten songs demonstrate his versatility, lyrical brilliance, and commitment to delivering impactful music that resonates with fans around the world.
