UK hip hop has grown into a powerful force in the music world. It blends local culture, unique slang, and fresh sounds. This article explores 17 influential UK hip hop songs. Each track reflects the diverse talent and spirit of the UK scene. The descriptions are detailed and fact-based. We also use simple language for clarity and originality. Two keywords, Hip Hop Songs and Hip Hop singers, are naturally integrated to guide readers to more music discoveries.
Discover 17 UK Hip Hop Songs Heating Up the Scene
1. “Shut Up” – Stormzy
“Shut Up” is one of Stormzy’s breakthrough hits. Released in 2015, it quickly gained attention for its catchy hook and raw energy. The song was originally a freestyle on the BBC Radio 1Xtra’s “Fire in the Booth.” Stormzy’s clever wordplay and confident delivery made it a UK hip hop anthem. It pushed grime and hip hop closer, showing how the two genres can mix.
2. “German Whip” – Meridian Dan feat. Big H & JME
Released in 2014, “German Whip” brought grime and UK hip hop to the charts. Meridian Dan raps about luxury cars and street life over a bass-heavy beat. Big H and JME add strong verses, making the song energetic. Its catchy chorus and slick production helped it reach mainstream listeners. This track is an example of how UK hip hop embraces local culture.
3. “Wiley Flow” – Stormzy
This song pays homage to Wiley, a grime legend. Stormzy’s lyrics reflect his respect for Wiley’s influence on UK music. The beat is fast and sharp, typical of grime but with hip hop rhythm. “Wiley Flow” shows how UK artists honor their roots while pushing hip hop forward. It is a modern tribute and a display of lyrical skill.
4. “Man’s Not Hot” – Big Shaq
Big Shaq’s “Man’s Not Hot” became a viral hit in 2017. The song is comedic, yet it uses classic grime and hip hop beats. Big Shaq’s humorous lyrics and memorable catchphrases made it popular worldwide. Despite its joke nature, the track brought UK hip hop to a broader audience. It highlights the genre’s ability to mix fun with strong music.
5. “Know Me From” – Stormzy
Another hit from Stormzy, “Know Me From,” was released in 2015. It has a raw sound with deep bass and sharp lyrics. The song is about proving oneself in the UK music scene. Stormzy’s confident flow and storytelling skills stand out here. It is a significant track that helped him rise in the UK hip hop and grime world.
6. “Freak of the Week” – Krept & Konan feat. Jeremih
Released in 2015, “Freak of the Week” blends UK hip hop with R&B influences. Krept & Konan’s smooth verses combined with Jeremih’s chorus created a catchy and melodic song. It highlights the versatility of UK hip hop artists and their ability to mix genres. The song was well-received and charted highly in the UK.
7. “It’s All Good” – Ghetts
Ghetts is known for his sharp lyricism and storytelling. “It’s All Good,” released in 2018, shows his depth and flow. The track discusses struggle and success in a personal way. Ghetts’ voice and style represent a serious side of UK hip hop. The beat supports his message with a gritty and steady rhythm.
8. “Too Many Man” – Boy Better Know
This 2009 track from Boy Better Know is a grime classic with strong hip hop influences. The song talks about the lack of women in the scene, using witty lyrics and catchy hooks. It features several group members, including JME and Skepta. The song became an anthem in UK urban music, influencing many hip hop songs afterward.
9. “Cold” – Stormzy
“Cold,” released in 2017, is a song where Stormzy addresses critics and reflects on his rise. The beat is intense, with hard-hitting bass and sharp snares. His delivery is emotional and confident. This track is often praised for its raw honesty and powerful message. It stands as one of the essential UK hip hop tracks of its time.
10. “Don’t Waste My Time” – Krept & Konan feat. Dave
This 2019 release features two of the UK’s top hip hop singers. The track has smooth production with a catchy hook. Both Krept & Konan and Dave deliver verses about love and respect. It’s a more melodic, radio-friendly UK hip hop song. The collaboration shows the scene’s growth and appeal to wider audiences.
11. “Shotgun” – Jamie T
Jamie T blends indie and hip hop in “Shotgun,” released in 2007. The song mixes storytelling and catchy beats. Though not pure hip hop, it influenced many UK hip hop singers by combining genres. Its narrative style and rhythm remain memorable in the UK music scene.
12. “Ladbroke Grove” – AJ Tracey
AJ Tracey’s “Ladbroke Grove,” released in 2019, is a tribute to West London. The song mixes UK garage and hip hop beats. AJ Tracey’s relaxed flow and catchy chorus make it a summer hit. It showcases how UK hip hop blends with other urban styles. The song is a cultural landmark, representing place and pride.
13. “Spirit Bomb” – Wiley feat. Giggs
This 2019 track features grime pioneer Wiley and rapper Giggs. “Spirit Bomb” has dark, heavy production and strong bars from both artists. The song reflects the gritty, street-focused side of UK hip hop. It’s praised for raw energy and lyrical skill. Both Wiley and Giggs are respected hip hop singers with huge influence.
14. “No Security” – Skepta feat. A$AP Rocky
From Skepta’s 2016 album, “No Security” blends grime and hip hop with American rap. Featuring A$AP Rocky, the song crosses the Atlantic. It has a smooth beat and catchy rhythm. The collaboration highlights UK hip hop’s global reach and growing respect in the world.
15. “Wanna Know” – Dave feat. Snoh Aalegra
Dave is one of the UK’s most thoughtful hip hop singers. “Wanna Know,” released in 2016, is about relationships and trust. The beat is mellow, letting the lyrics shine. Snoh Aalegra’s soulful voice complements Dave’s rap. This song shows the emotional depth UK hip hop can have.
16. “Shutdown” – Skepta
“Shutdown” is one of Skepta’s most popular tracks. Released in 2015, it became a club and radio hit. The beat is minimal but powerful. Skepta’s confident flow and sharp lyrics make it an anthem for UK hip hop fans. The song’s influence is seen in many artists that followed.
17. “Funky Friday” – Dave feat. Fredo
“Funky Friday” hit number one on UK charts in 2018. Dave and Fredo rap about weekend vibes and street life. The production is smooth with a catchy hook. It’s a feel-good track that balances lyricism with commercial appeal. This song helped solidify Dave’s status in the UK hip hop scene.
SEE ALSO: 15 Essential Hip Hop Songs from the 1970s Everyone Talks About
Conclusion
These 17 UK Hip Hop Songs represent the heartbeat of a growing and diverse scene. From the lyrical depth of Dave to the bold energy of Stormzy and Skepta, each track paints a unique portrait of UK culture, sound, and street expression. Whether it’s a viral anthem like “Man’s Not Hot” or a deep reflection like “Wanna Know,” UK hip hop continues to inspire listeners both locally and globally.
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