Hip hop and rap have consistently been genres that explore various aspects of life, and one of the recurring themes in their lyrics is friendship. Over the years, many artists have crafted heartfelt and relatable songs about the significance of camaraderie and loyalty. In this article, we present the 15 best hip hop/rap songs about friendship, showcasing the profound impact these tracks have had on the culture of friendship in the music world. From classic anthems to contemporary masterpieces, these songs exemplify the true essence of friendship in hip hop. Let’s dive into the list, complete with the release year for each song.
The 15 Best Rap Songs About Friends:
1. “I Ain’t Mad at Cha” – 2Pac
- Artist: 2Pac
- Song Title: I Ain’t Mad at Cha
- Released: 1996
Released posthumously, this poignant track by 2Pac reflects on the changing dynamics of friendships amidst life’s struggles. Through heartfelt verses, 2Pac shows unconditional love and understanding for friends who have chosen different paths.
2. “Just a Friend” – Biz Markie
- Artist: Biz Markie
- Song Title: Just a Friend
- Released: 1989
A classic in the hip hop realm, Biz Markie’s “Just a Friend” narrates a humorous tale of unrequited love and the bond between friends. The catchy melody and witty lyrics have made this track a timeless friendship anthem.
3. “Best Friends” – Missy Elliott feat. Aaliyah
- Artist: Missy Elliott feat- Aaliyah
- Song Title: Best Friends
- Released: 2005
Missy Elliott’s groovy track “Best Friends” celebrates the unbreakable bond between close friends. With her signature style and infectious beats, she reminds us of the importance of having someone to lean on through thick and thin.
4. “No New Friends” – DJ Khaled ft. Drake, Lil Wayne, & Rick Ross
- Artist: DJ Khaled ft. Drake, Lil Wayne, & Rick Ross
- Song Title: No New Friends
- Released: 2013
In this star-studded collaboration, DJ Khaled and his team emphasize the significance of loyalty and the belief in sticking with old friends rather than seeking new ones. The track is a reminder of the value of true, long-standing friendships.
5. “Crew” – GoldLink feat. Brent Faiyaz and Shy Glizzy
- Artist: GoldLink feat. Brent Faiyaz and Shy Glizzy
- Song Title: Crew
- Released: 2017
Puff Daddy’s collaboration with hip-hop heavyweights pays tribute to the iconic $100 bill, symbolizing the pursuit of financial success in the rap game.
6. “See You Again” – Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth
- Artist: Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth
- Song Title: See You Again
- Released: 2015
From the soundtrack of “Furious 7,” Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth crafted a heartrending tribute to the late actor Paul Walker. The song’s touching lyrics convey the strength of their friendship and the memories they shared.
7. “All Me” – Drake ft. 2 Chainz & Big Sean
- Artist: Drake ft. 2 Chainz & Big Sean
- Song Title: All Me
- Released: 2013
Drake, 2 Chainz, and Big Sean team up on this catchy track that celebrates success and friendship. “All Me” showcases their camaraderie while sharing the journey to achieving their dreams together.
8. “Real Friends” – Kanye West
- Artist: Kanye West
- Song Title: Real Friends
- Released: 2016
Kanye West’s introspective song “Real Friends” delves into the complexities of maintaining genuine connections amidst fame and fortune. The track highlights the struggles and challenges faced in sustaining authentic friendships.
9. “My Homies Still” – Lil Wayne ft. Big Sean
- Artist: Lil Wayne ft. Big Sean
- Song Title: My Homies Still
- Released: 2012
Lil Wayne and Big Sean’s collaboration captures the essence of being there for your friends through thick and thin. The song emphasizes the value of loyalty and the understanding that true friends will always have your back.
10. “Umbrella” – Rihanna ft. JAY-Z
- Artist: Rihanna ft. JAY-Z
- Song Title: Umbrella
- Released: 2007
While primarily a pop/R&B song, JAY-Z’s rap verse on Rihanna’s “Umbrella” showcases the support he offers her as a friend. The song reflects the protective and nurturing aspect of friendship.
11. “Hypnotize” – The Notorious B.I.G.
- Artist: The Notorious B.I.G.
- Song Title: Hypnotize
- Released: 1997
This iconic track from The Notorious B.I.G. brings a light-hearted and fun perspective on friendship. With smooth rhymes and a captivating beat, “Hypnotize” reminds us of the good times spent with friends.
12. “Best I Ever Had” – Drake
- Artist: Drake
- Song Title: Best I Ever Had
- Released: 2009
In this heartfelt song, Drake expresses his appreciation for the support and love he has received from his friends. The track has become a favorite anthem for celebrating cherished friendships.
13. “Tha Crossroads” – Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
- Artist: Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
- Song Title: Tha Crossroads
- Released: 1996
A heartfelt tribute to their fallen friend Eazy-E, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s “Tha Crossroads” embodies the pain of losing a loved one and the importance of cherishing the time spent with friends.
14. “My Buddy” – G-Unit
- Artist: G-Unit
- Song Title: My Buddy
- Released: 2002
G-Unit’s “My Buddy” serves as an ode to their loyal companions, their guns. However, beneath the surface, the song also showcases the bond between friends in a world full of challenges and danger.
15. “Find Your Love” – Drake
- Artist: Drake
- Song Title: Find Your Love
- Released: 2010
In this heartfelt song, Drake expresses gratitude for the friends who have been there for him throughout his journey to success. The track’s release in 2010 marked another milestone in the rapper’s career.
Final Thoughts:
Hip hop and rap have given us a treasure trove of songs about friendship, with artists using their lyrical prowess to celebrate, honor, and reflect on the profound connections we share with our closest companions. These 15 best hip hop/rap songs about friendship have etched their names in history, resonating with audiences across generations and showcasing the genre’s power to express the most meaningful aspects of life through music.
