“Rap is a competitive sport, and the biggest prize is the money. A lot of rappers focus on that, and that’s what the fans gravitate towards.”
Those were the words of popular rapper Kendrick Lamar as he explained why a lot of rap songs seem to focus more on bucks.
From the ’90s until now, wealth is a dominant theme in Hip-Hop music and the way artists present themselves. Rappers often love flaunting their wealth and fans love hearing about it because it’s a status symbol.
To be honest, money and success are what most people strive for. Hip-Hop doesn’t shy away from that. For the artists, it’s not just about producing great music. It’s also about getting that No. 1 hit, being on top and living large.
Here, we explore all fans need to know about why wealth is so important in rap and music culture.
Is Hip-Hop’s Obsession with Wealth Really Important to an Artist’s Image?
Wealth is a big deal in Hip-Hop because a lot of fans come from backgrounds where money is tight. Beyond just the middle-class suburbia, the genre focuses on the struggles and aspirations of those who have less.
Interestingly, artists and fans believe that money means power and freedom. It means taking care of loved ones and living a better life. That’s why it’s so prominent in music. In fact, the pursuit of financial freedom can be an exciting adventure, and in most cases, it feels like playing a game of chance such as poker.
If you’re learning how to play Caribbean Stud Poker, for instance, some will find out that the game is just about strategy and skill. And once you understand the rules, they can go ahead to make informed decisions that will increase your winnings. With financial literacy, anyone can find their way up to financial freedom.
Besides, wealth is also a motivator because most people want to live a life of luxury and having money seems to solve a lot of problems. Plus, imagining yourself in the rapper’s shoes gives one a glimmer of hope to get through the tough times.
Wealth in Hip-Hop: From Rags to Riches
Hip-Hop’s massive appeal lies in its ability to connect with people from all walks of life. It provides real music that’s both relatable and uplifting. It also shows us that we don’t have to be defined by our circumstances–that we can rise above our struggles and achieve something more.
Hip-hHp is all about transformation and growth. For the most part, it’s a kind of music that proves that our current situation doesn’t have to be our final destination. And as Jay-Z puts it, “Hip-hop is about taking your experiences and turning them into something new, something better.”
Sure, Hip-Hop can sometimes go overboard with the wealth thing, and some of that criticism is totally valid. But for some young people in the United States, music has created opportunities that wouldn’t have existed otherwise. It has turned folks like JAY-Z into billionaires, and that’s a complete game-changer.
As much as music is fun, and money seems to be a huge part of it, flaunting wealth in Hip-Hop has a deeper meaning. Many think it’s just about showing off, but there’s a lot more to it than that. In fact, it’s sometimes about showing what’s possible.
So far, people are desperate to achieve success and curious about what wealth can do for them; Hip-Hop will keep talking about it. And that in itself is not out of place.
The Best Rap Songs About Money
Below are some of the best rap songs about money you’ll find on the playlist of most hip-hop lovers:
“Bands A Make Her Dance” by Juicy J f. Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz
This popular club anthem is all about the power of money and how it can get you noticed. The beat is infectious and the bass is heavy. It’s what you can call the perfect combo for a wild night out.
“C.R.E.A.M. (Cash Rules Everything Around Me)” by Wu-Tang Clan
The main idea in this cash-centric song is the struggles that come with being poor and how much people desire financial freedom.
“BMF Blowin’ Money Fast” by Rick Ross f. Styles P
This high-energy track focuses on living that luxurious life, and Styles P’s standout verse is straight fire. It’s more or less a celebration of all the excess that comes with being a successful rapper: the money, the fame, the whole nine yards.
“Bank Account” by 21 Savage
“Bank Account” is a great song to listen to if you’re feeling good about your finances. It’s all about success and the almighty dollar, and the hook is really sticky. Plus, the beat is relaxed and easy-going, so it’s a great choice for a chill celebration.
“Money On My Mind” by Lil Wayne
This song is primarily about hustle and determination. Weezy’s got his eyes on the prize, and he won’t let anything get in his way. The beat is gritty, the lyrics are rea and it’s just like he’s daring anyone to stand in his way.
“Gold Digger” by Kanye West f. Jamie Foxx
Kanye West’s#### song “Gold Digger” is a warning about getting too close to someone who’s only interested in your money. With Jamie Foxx’s catchy hook, this track is still a fan favorite and a great reminder to keep an eye out for people with ulterior motives.
“Money Maker” by Ludacris f. Pharrell
This is arguably the ultimate feel-good anthem for anyone chasing financial freedom. Thanks to its infectious beat and motivational lyrics, fans will be singing along and hustling for that paper in no time.
“I Get Money” by 50 Cent
From the title of this song, you can already tell that it’s about 50 Cent’s ability to make money.
“A Milli” by Lil Wayne
This particular song showcases Lil Wayne’s unparalleled flow in an interesting way. Among other things, the wordplay is something that can help anybody step up their financial game.
“Money” by Cardi B
Cardi B’s “Money” is a fun song about her unapologetic love for the high life. She’s got a great beat and her own style that makes the song really work.
“Money in the Grave” by Drake f. Rick Ross
Drake and Rick Ross came together for a killer song about getting money. The beat is intense and the lyrics are all about stacking up that wealth.
“Money Trees” by Kendrick Lamar f. Jay Rock
Here’s a powerful song that takes you back to Kendrick’s childhood in Compton, California. The beat is smooth and Jay Rock’s verse is incredible.
“Mo Money Mo Problems” by The Notorious B.I.G. f. Diddy and Ma$e
In this song, The Notorious B.I.G. is rapping with Diddy and Ma$e about the downsides of being famous and rich.