From Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem’s exuberant collaboration to billy woods’ apocalyptic visions to Little Simz’s myth-making swagger

Discover the freshest beats and chart-topping rhymes with "The 42 Best Rap Songs of 2023" playlist, capturing the essence of a stellar year in hip-hop. Featuring standout tracks like Noname's introspective "namesake" and Ice Spice's viral hit "Deli," this collection spans the spectrum of rap, from the raw energy of Kenzo B's "N.B.L." to the gritty narratives in billy woods’ collaborations on "Year Zero" and "The Gods Must Be Crazy." The playlist also brings you high-octane bangers from artists like JPEGMAFIA and Danny Brown with “Fentanyl Tester,” alongside melodic grooves from global superstars Drake and Kendrick Lamar on “8am in Charlotte” and “The Hillbillies” respectively.

This playlist is your go-to for the hottest tracks of the year, with a blend of emerging artists and seasoned veterans. Stream Maiya The Don’s smooth flow in "Dusties" or vibe with the infectious rhythm of Sexyy Red’s “SkeeYee.” For a mix of live performance energy, check out LaRussell and Sada Baby’s “Pergola Freestyle - Live.” From underground gems like Skech185 and Jeff Markey’s "Up to Speed" to mainstream juggernauts such as Baby Keem's musings with Kendrick Lamar, "The 42 Best Rap Songs of 2023" is an unmissable ride through the best that modern rap has to offer.