05's Top Tracks

As promised, my picks for the best songs of '05. Audio links courtesy HipHopSite.com.


1. Common feat. John Legend & Kanye West - They Say - Geffen
"They say because of the fame and stardom I'm somewhere in between the church and insane asylum" - Kanye
"They say life is a game, so I play hard / Writing for my life cause I'm scared of a day job."
Incredible combo of Com/Kan/John with Kanye on the beat. Slammin' & sincere.

2. Perceptionists - Memorial Day - Definitive Jux
Thoughtful anti-war verses from the perspective of enlisted soldiers.

3. The Game feat. 50 Cent - Hate It Or Love It - Aftermath
Forget what these top tier rhymers are talking about, Just Blaze absolutely killed the beat.

4. Paul Wall feat. Big Pokey - Sittin' Sidewayz - Atlantic
Sort of like diving into a bath full of maple syrup.

5. Matisyahu - King Without A Crown - Or Music
This hasidic reggae rhymer busts from the heart.

6. Kanye West feat. Adam Levine - Heard 'Em Say - Roc-A-Fella
Levine's high pitched wails make the ideal compliment to the upper piano notes that grace the track.

7. Fort Minor Feat. Bobo & Styles Of Beyond - Believe Me - Warner Bros.

8. Giant Panda - 90's - Tres
Yes, this tune is a sort-of-remake of A Tribe Called Quest's lazy classic "Midnight." Since we'll never have another Tribe LP, enjoy.

9. Amerie - 1 Thing - Sony
The year's most hypnotic jam, produced by DC's own Rich Harrison.

10. Madonna - Hung Up - Warner Bros.
Thank you Abba and Stuart Price.