Rap intros set the tone for an entire album, often becoming iconic in their own right. These opening tracks have the power to captivate listeners, introducing themes and establishing the artist’s mindset. From introspective confessions to bold statements of intent, the best rap intros leave an impression on every listener.
Splitting hairs here to generate our top 15 picks for the greatest rap album intros of all time. We don’t want to double dip and have a one intro per artist rule, which added to the difficulty to selection. Each choice showcases the artist’s best of their intros and sets the tones for some of the best albums ever.
Tuscan Leather – Drake
An early masterpiece in Drake’s discography, serving as the opening track for his third studio album, Nothing Was the Same. Its 6:04 runtime of pure rapping stands out, even as Drake’s subsequent work leans more towards R&B influences. This atmospheric hip-hop song, produced by Noah “40” Shebib and Nathan Sessoms, showcases Drake’s growing confidence and artistic vision following the success of Take Care.
Nothing Was the Same
The track’s unique structure including no choruses, but still holds four distinct parts . It heavily samples Whitney Houston’s “I Have Nothing,” cleverly distorted and manipulated throughout the song. The production samples elements from Steady B and KRS-One’s “Serious,” and Curtis Mayfield’s vocals from the 1987 Montreux Jazz Festival.
Looking back on Tuscan Leather is iconic in 2024. It still stands the test of time. With his famous “Just give it time, we’ll see who’s still around a decade from now,” his life is close to a completed checklist in the ultra competitive music landscape.
Other Notable Drake Intro’s
With his body of work, you can separate this debate to just the best Drake intros. While Tuscan Leather is widely regarded as Drake’s best intro, it’s worth noting his consistent strength in album openers.
Here is the chronological list of Drake’s studio albums, including his collaboration albums, along with their intro tracks:
- So Far Gone – Lust For Life
- Thank Me Later – Fireworks
- Take Care – Over My Dead Body
- Nothing Was the Same – Tuscan Leather
- If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late – Legend
- What a Time to Be Alive (with Future) – Digital Dash
- Views – Keep the Family Close
- More Life – Free Smoke
- Scorpion – Survival
- Care Package – Dreams Money Can Buy
- Dark Lane Demo Tapes – Deep Pockets
- Certified Lover Boy – Champagne Poetry
- Honestly, Nevermind – Intro
- Her Loss (with 21 Savage) – Rich Flex
- For All the Dogs – Virginia Beach
Intro – DMX
We have talked about the impact DMX’s debut album, It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot made when released in 1998. His epic arrival on the scene started right from the Intro. Used to open his seismic shift on the hip-hop landscape with the famous skit dropping into one of the hardest states to any album. The intro hook was so effective the album sold an impressive 251,000 copies in its first week, propelling DMX to the forefront of the rap scene. As rapper paved the way for future rap collectives like G-Unit, Diplomats, and Roc-A-Fella.
Ambitionz Az a Ridah – 2Pac
In one of the most recognizable tracks in rap history, Ambitionz Az a Ridah opened 2Pac’s iconic 1996 album, All Eyez on Me. This song serves as a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the rapper’s mindset, reflecting his struggles, aspirations, and resilience. As one of the first tracks Pac produced after his release from jail, it perfectly demonstrates his ability to balance sinister themes with incredible storytelling.
He addresses the constant police attention he receives but remains unfazed, asserting his strength and invincibility as a ‘G’. The lyrics delve into the harsh realities of Tupac’s life, including the scars from numerous battles and the pressures of being a rap star.
All Eyez On Me
The last album released during his lifetime will last a lifetime. Being one of the first double-disk hip-hop albums, the content moved away from the social and political consciousness of his earlier works. Instead focusing on an intense unapologetic celebrations of the “Thug Lifestyle.” The album alluded to 2Pac’s feeling of being under constant surveillance, particularly by the police and those wishing to harm him. This paranoia and defiance are evident where 2Pac touches on themes of vengeance, suicide, and his refusal to return to prison.
Dreams and Nightmares – Meek Mill
This intro stands as a defining moment in Meek Mill’s career, serving as the opening track to his debut studio album of the same name in 2012. The song was recorded at the Ocean Sky Hotel in Miami during the late sessions for the album in September 2012. The song’s structure is unique, unfolding in two distinct acts that have even white people knowing all the lyrics. Beginning with somber keys as Meek chronicles his ascent, then the abrupt shift makes it one of the best sports walk outings. This stark contrast between “dreams” and “nightmares” is reflected in the songs explosive, adrenaline-fueled performance .
Straight Outta Compton – N.W.A
Produced by N.W.A members Dr. Dre, DJ Yella, and Arabian Prince, with lyrics penned by Ice Cube, MC Ren, and The D.O.C., the album became a cultural phenomenon. Its depiction of street life and confrontational lyrics, particularly in tracks like Fuck tha Police, drew both acclaim and controversy, even attracting an FBI warning letter.
Despite limited radio play outside Los Angeles, it achieved platinum status in July 1989, marking a milestone for gangsta rap. The album’s impact has endured, with remastered versions released in 2000 and 2007. In 2015, coinciding with the release of the biographical film, the album was certified 3x Multi-Platinum. Its cultural significance was further cemented in 2016 when it became the first rap album inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Movie
F. Gary Gray’s 2015 biopic Straight Outta Compton brought N.W.A’s story to the big screen. The film skillfully integrates the group’s music with key plot points to underscore pivotal moments and social commentary. Gray’s direction elevates the film beyond typical music biopics, offering a nuanced portrayal of characters like Jerry Heller, N.W.A’s original manager. The movie’s success reinvigorated interest in the album, contributing to its increased sales and cultural resurgence.
Good Morning – Kanye West
Had to flip a coin on this one. Good Morning stands as the opening track of Kanye West’s third studio album, Graduation, released in 2007. Paired with an awesome music video with its unique blend of electronic and ambient was Kanye tapping new arsenals in music production.
The song continues the education theme established in his previous albums, The College Dropout and Late Registration. Kanye cleverly uses the track as an anthemic commencement address, declaring his music as a dissertation and drawing parallels between his career and academia.
Good Morning, Dark Fantasy or Ultralight Beam Debate
Among Kanye’s album openers, Dark Fantasy and Ultralight Beam. Each track made their case before our ultimate selection. These openers demonstrate West’s ability to craft impactful introductions, setting distinct tones for each album with none of them sounding the same.
The Ruler’s Back – Jay-Z
Bully music at it’s finest. The Ruler’s Back serves as the opening track on Jay-Z’s sixth studio album, The Blueprint, paying homage to Slick Rick’s song of the same name. This tribute showcases Jay-Z’s deep respect for hip-hop culture, even in the face of criticism. The track also addresses Nas, setting the stage for their impending confrontation.
The Blueprint
This was a pivotal album in Jay-Z’s career, reportedly recorded in just two weeks, with nine songs completed in a mere two days. This rapid production occurred against a backdrop of personal challenges for Jay-Z, including two pending criminal trials and ongoing feuds with various rappers. The album’s sound is characterized by its use of vintage soul samples, with nearly every track featuring vocal snippets from artists like Al Green, Bobby “Blue” Bland, and The Jackson 5 . This sonic palette, combined with Jay-Z’s lyrical prowess, created a cohesive and impactful listening experience.
As if the intro was not enough to address the feuds, Takeover, directly addresses the feuds with Nas and Mobb Deep’s Prodigy. The song cleverly incorporates samples from The Doors’ Five to One and David Bowie’s Fame, demonstrating Jay-Z’s skill in crafting pointed diss tracks.
Wesley’s Theory – Kendrick Lamar
One hell of an opening track for Kendrick Lamar’s critically acclaimed To Pimp A Butterfly. This powerful introduction blends ’70s funk and soul with modern experimental rap, setting the stage for an exploration of identity, fame, and American capitalism. Kendrick uses this framework to delve into the complexities of success and the pitfalls of the “American Dream” for African-Americans.
To Pimp A Butterfly
The album’s title metaphorically compares the social experience to a caterpillar’s metamorphosis into a butterfly. Kendrick’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young artist seduced by wealth, contrasted with the perspective of “Uncle Sam” – a personification of the U.S. Government and America . This juxtaposition highlights the tension between individual aspirations and institutional barriers, challenging listeners to consider the broader implications of success within a system designed to maintain racial and economic disparities.
Regulate – Warren G
Warren G’s debut album, Regulate… G Funk Era, released on June 7, 1994, was a banger. The album’s title track, Regulate, featuring Nate Dogg, became an instant classic, blending Michael McDonald’s I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near) with smooth G-funk production. This innovative approach to sampling and production helped establish Warren G as a formidable force in the rap scene.
Album
“Regulate… G Funk Era” was a commercial powerhouse, achieving triple platinum status and debuting at No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard Top 200 albums chart. The album’s success not only validated Warren G’s solo career but also played a crucial role in saving Def Jam Records from financial turmoil. Its impact extended beyond sales, earning two Grammy nominations and ranking as the fourth most popular rap album of the year.
Warren G’s production skills shine throughout the album, showcasing his ability to craft a unique G-funk sound. He incorporated live instrumentation and sampled from quiet storm and funk tracks of the early ’80s, creating a laid-back, feel-good atmosphere.
Culture – Migos
Migos’ rise to stardom reached new heights with their hit single Bad and Boujee. The track, featuring Lil Uzi Vert and produced by Metro Boomin, became a cultural phenomenon, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for two consecutive weeks. Its success catapulted Migos into the mainstream, with the song’s catchy lyrics and distinctive trap sound resonating with audiences worldwide. The track’s popularity set the stage for the a strong and fun intro featuring DJ Khaled.
Migos released their album Culture in 2017. The album showcased the group’s signature style, featuring their trademark rapid-fire flows and quotable lyrics . The album’s impact extended beyond music, influencing fashion and pop culture. Migos’ unique ad-libs and the became widely imitated, and allowed them to release this album in a trilogy.
a lot – 21 Savage
An emotional opening track for 21 Savage’s sophomore album, i am > i was, released on December 21, 2018. The song, featuring J. Cole, showcases 21 Savage’s growth as an artist, blending introspective lyrics with a multi-layered soundscape. Produced by DJ Dahi, the track opens with gospel-inspired R&B vocals before transitioning into a unique beat that J. Cole absolutely crushed on his feature .
i am > i was
The album reflects 21 Savage’s personal and artistic evolution. Debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, the album sold approximately 131,000 album-equivalent units in its first week. a lot emerged as the highest-charting song from the album, debuting at No. 37 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track’s success contributed to the album’s platinum certification by the RIAA on January 8, 2020.
Villuminati – J.Cole
“Sometimes I brag like HOV”, the opening words J. Cole’s sophomore album, set the stage for his arrival as one of the generations best. I don’t care what has happened in 2024 this intro is as hard as any. The track’s production, featuring a Biggie sample and a hook that pays homage to Jay-Z, showcases Cole’s ambition to be compared to hip-hop’s best. He boldly declares, “Allow me to reintroduce myself, my name is Cole,” signaling his readiness to claim his place among rap’s elite.
Born Sinner Album
J. Cole’s second studio effort, Born Sinner, not only met but exceeded the high expectations set by his debut. The album features collaborations with industry heavyweights such as 50 Cent, Kendrick Lamar, TLC, and Miguel, highlighting Cole’s growing stature in 2013. What truly distinguishes the album is its subtle yet impactful R&B influences. Tracks like Sparks Will Fly and Crooked Smile revealed a softer, more melodic side of Cole while maintaining his trademark authenticity and purposeful messaging.
the ends – Travis Scott
Yup, forget Stargazing, this is his best work, go argue with a wall. This track serves as the intro for Travis Scott’s best album Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight. The album, released in 2016, marked a significant milestone in Scott’s career, providing the gas that launched him into a different atmosphere when Astroworld was released nearly two years later.
Birds In The Trap Sing McKnight
Scott explained the album’s title in a Billboard interview, describing it as a reflection of his upbringing and the social constraints he and his friends experienced. Despite facing multiple delays due to technical difficulties and mixing issues, the album was finally completed on August 31, 2016. Upon release, it debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, earning 88,000 album-equivalent units in its first week.
Thought It Was A Drought – Future
Saving one of the best for last was the internet sensation this song became. A song that sent Gucci flip-flops sales rising was the intro for Future’s album DS2. released on July 17, 2015 . The song, produced by Allen Ritter and Metro Boomin, aided Future in creating his best album among his dense discography. The album delves into themes of drug use, success, and personal struggles, creating a powerful narrative that resonates with his audience.
In this track, Future addresses the scarcity of Actavis cough syrup, thus the drought. He boasts about his connections, implying that he still has access to the sought-after substance despite its removal from the market. The rapper’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of his lifestyle, touching on his drug-dealing past and his rise to fame. The theme of turning pain into art recurs throughout the album, showcasing Future’s ability to channel his experiences into compelling music.
Difficult Decisions
Choosing the best rap intros is no easy task. The art of crafting an impactful opening track has been mastered by numerous artists across different eras and styles. We couldn’t even squeeze in Lil Wayne’s 3-Peat or any Nas intro. Although the selections are based on biases of our exposure and albums released during our generation.
The best rap intros do more than just start an album – they make a statement. Whether it’s through hard-hitting beats, clever wordplay, or emotional depth, these tracks gave listeners a preview of the album’s energy. As hip-hop continues to grow and change, the art of the album intro is critical, finding new ways to capture the attention with the challenge of musical saturation and the shortening human attention span.
Leave A Comment