“Lean Back,” - Terror Squad: One of the best rap songs of the 2000s, this legendary track has one of my favorite beats of all time. The memorable cello loop and hard hitting drums on the Scott Storch produced beat adds a layer of darkness to the track as Fat Joe and Remy Ma each provide aggressive verses.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnhaN88isRI
“We As Americans,” - Eminem: One of my favorite Eminem tracks, this came from one of his worst albums, Encore, which had a few other highlights, as well. I love the Eminem and Luis Resto produced beat, and Eminem’s angry flow. Everything he says he means, and it comes from a place of real rage towards law enforcement which was written when he was on a two year probation for carrying a concealed weapon. It’s a solid political track, and has a very socially conscious vibe to it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbUEkqcY0oU
“How You Remind Me,” - Nickelback: Before you judge me, this is the only Nickelback track I like, I love the guitar riffs, as well as the raw, emotional delivery of Chad Kroeger’s vocals. This is easily the best track they’ve ever made, and sure, it’s kind of a 2000s relic, but I heard it all the time on the radio growing up, and it was one of my favorite modern rock songs as a kid. The hook is so catchy, as well.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aiay8I5IPB8
“Cardinal,” - Kacey Musgraves: One of my favorite tracks from country singer Kacey Musgraves’ latest album, Deeper Well. It sounds like a track that would be featured on the Red Dead Redemption 2 soundtrack, I love the folksy and melancholy sound of the song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHI7wnv58ws
“Comfortably Numb,” - Pink Floyd: One of my favorite songs off of The Wall, as well as one of my favorite Pink Floyd tracks of all time. The guitar solo on this track from David Gilmour makes me ascend. It’s just heavenly and iconic.