Meta title: 7 Aussie Hip Hop Tracks That Australians Love
Meta Description: Don’t know your Australian hip hop? You’re about to get schooled, with seven tracks from across the years that are certified gold – by Aussies themselves.
Aussie Hip Hop is like nothing else – and while there isn’t as big a scene as say, the US or the UK, there are some certified bangers that every Australian is likely to know. If you haven’t discovered the different complexities of Australian hip-hop, well we are here to give you a little introduction – with 7 of the greatest hip-hop tracks of all time.
This music genre’s lyrics reflect the country’s unique culture, struggles, and triumphs, these songs have become iconic. From anthems of identity to beats that get any crowd moving, Aussie hip-hop has carved its place in the music industry and everyday life.
Chances are, you’ve heard some of these legendary tracks in unexpected places—pumping through your car radio, echoing through supermarket aisles, or even adding rhythm to moments of luck while playing win-real-money casino games from casinos listed on AussieCodes.com. These songs have gained immense popularity due to their authenticity and relatability, resonating with audiences across generations. As artists continue to push boundaries, the legacy of Australian hip-hop is alive and thriving, proving that these beats and bars are here to stay.
1. The Nosebleed Section – Hilltop Hoods
After coming in hot at the turn of the century, these lads have been going strong for over two whole decades. The Hilltop Hoods are about as close to hip-hop royalty as it gets in Australia. The Nosebleed Section is that song when, whenever any Australian is in a bar overseas and it comes on, they’ll start mouthing the lyrics and nodding their head. The song itself is an impossible-to-escape earworm and party starter, and that’s what makes the Nosebleed Section so well-deserving of the number one spot.
2. The Message – OneFour
Love them or hate them, OneFour has certainly made an impact on the Australian music scene, especially in the West Sydney drill sector. The boys from OneFour are attributed to starting the drill sound over in Australia, spurred on by the UK drill scene, but putting their spin on it. The Message packs a powerful punch (as do their fists, allegedly), and you can even watch the 2023 Netflix series about their come-up and dust-ups with rival gangs and the law.
3. 1955 – Hilltop Hoods with Montaigne & Tom Thum
A cheeky throwback to the 50s, featuring Montaigne & Tom Thum? Yep, The Hilltop Hoods did it again with this catchy tune. It’s a little bit of pop, a lot of rap, and a whole lot of throwback in this 2018 song: a summery fun bop. While ‘harder’ hip hop fans might find this one a little hard to swallow, just take it for what it is – a great singalong.
4. My Scene – Seth Sentry
Seth Sentry’s presence in the Melbourne music scene was a big deal in the early 2000s, with the man all over town gigging, hosting, and MCing. Seth won Aria Gold in 2012 and 2013 with Float Away and Dear Science, and also has a track with Bliss n Eso, 360, Pez, and Drapht – but it’s My Scene that still gets played around the country today. While Seth hasn’t put out new music since 2021, we hope to hear from him soon.
5. Papercuts – Illy with Vera Blue
A staple of the Aussie airwaves, Frankston’s own Illy burned the house down with the 2016 song with Vera Blue titled Papercuts. At the time, both of their stars were at their peak, and the song landed Illy a staggering six Aria nominations including for Best Male Artist. While he went on to win Best Australian Live Act with the Two Degrees Tour the following year, you can bet that a lot of that love came from the success of the still-beautiful Papercuts.
6. Jimmy Recard – Drapht
“It’s J.R., Jimmy Recard! Raise your glass for the king of the bar!” Ah yes, Jimmy Recard, the curious track from Drapht that still slaps today. As the song goes, he’s annoyed that his parents gave him a name like “Plain old boring old Paul” and picks the name Jimmy Recard to plot out his new fantasy life – as the king of the castle, and yes, the king of the barstool.
7. Chase That Feeling – Hilltop Hoods
Don’t come for us to add another Hilltop Hoods track to this list! Hey, we could’ve just sat here and rattled off 10 of the Hoods track – but that wouldn’t be fair now, would it? Chase That Feeling is interesting in its composition because it fluctuates from a bit darker to coming into the light. The song touches on addiction – the title is Chase That Feeling after all, but champions happiness above all else, without needing substances. It’s a powerful listen, and many in the music industry will know well the struggles of addiction.