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As it's Valentines day here's some classic love jams, perfect for a mood-inducing mix tape or bedroom soundtrack. Grab that special someone and take in the love-laced lyricism.
LL Cool J - "I Need Love"
While this was not the first-ever love rap, LL's classic single from 1987 was a huge hit and helped make him the star he remains today. With its minimalist production, tinkling bells, and exceptional video, this track proved that the Queens pioneer was more than just a ferocious b-boy, and it had an entire generation of females swooning. L, whose name itself means "Ladies Love Cool James," would go on to drop many more budoir-minded hits, including "Around the Way Girl" and "Doin' It," among others. True to form, he recently costarred in the film Last Holiday, a romantic comedy starring fellow rapper/actor Queen Latifah.
Slick Rick - "Teenage Love"
Released in 1988, Slick Rick's debut album, The Great Adventures of Slick Rick, was an immediate hit, thanks largely to the lead single (and accompanying video for) "Children's Story." A sharp contrast to LL's chiseled, tough-but-sensitive image, The Ruler was more of a laid-back player, draped in oversized jewelry, rocking the eye patch, and bringing a smooth, accented flow to the table. "Teenage Love," and its chorus of "don't, don't, don't hurt me again," demonstrated that Rick could bring the romanticism as well, over another simple yet dope, keyboard-laden track. Some of the album's other tunes are far dirtier, but this track remains a club staple, guaranteed to drive the women (at least those in the 30-plus set) crazy.
Biz Markie - "Just a Friend"
Another New York legend, another classic song. Biz was already big among serious hip-hop heads thanks to early gems like "Vapors" and "Nobody Beats the Biz," but it was this track off his second LP, 1989's The Biz Never Sleeps, that really made him a household name. "Just a Friend" got tons of play on MTV and the radio, transforming the beat-boxing oddball into a major star. With his off-key crooning, lisped rhymes, and Beethoven wig, Biz told a story of heartbreak that took the world by storm. He never really scored another mainstream hit after that, but he continues to release quality music, performs around the world, and occasionally pops up on reality shows or '80s-centric specials.
A Tribe Called Quest - "Bonita Applebum"
With their ultra-mellow, jazzed-out production and nonthreatening vocals, ATCQ had a long winning streak throughout the 1990s. Though they haven't put out new material in years, they remain among many listeners' all-time favorite acts. Their first album, People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm, was dope from start to finish, though this one song stands out as a high point. "Bonita Applebum," a sitar-laced dedication to a special lady with perfect assets, was a hit then and remains a hit more than 15 years later. Tribe would go on to craft many key love jams during their five-album career, including "Electric Relaxation," "Hot Sex," and their final single, "Find A Way."
The Notorious B.I.G.
"One More Chance/Stay With Me"
Despite his imposing girth and lazy eye, there is no doubt that Biggie had a gift with the ladies. From his wife, Faith Evans, to his protégé, Lil' Kim (not to mention Charli Baltimore), his raw charisma and sharp skills helped him connect with a bevy of model-worthy honeys. On the microphone, he could switch it up from Bed-Stuy stick-up kid/crack dealer to international playboy with ease, and this track, a remix of the version included on Ready To Die, is perhaps the best example of his inner lothario. Built on a slow DeBarge melody with Faith on the chorus, it basically owned the Billboard R&B charts in the summer of 1995. Eight years later, Irv Gotti recycled the beat for Ashanti's single "Foolish."
Tha Dogg Pound - "Let's Play House"
While hardly known as romantics, Westside VIPs Kurupt and Daz both let their lover-man flag fly on this domestic bliss anthem off of their 1995 full-length Dogg Food. Built on the requisite synth squeals that dominated the G-funk era, "Let's Play House" was also boasted by the harmonious vocals of Michel'le and longtime DPG affiliate Nate Dogg, who has lent his voice to countless hits. This song wasn't nearly as controversial as the lead single "New York, New York," or as freaky as the Snoop-assisted jam "Bomb Azz P****," but it is definitely among the Pound's best jams.
Method Man feat. Mary J. Blige
"I'll Be There For You/You're All I Need"
Teaming up Wu-Tang's Method Man and the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, this single is a remix to an earlier version that appeared on Tical. Produced by Puff Daddy (who played a crucial role in Mary's early career), the tune was inspired by a 1968 duet between Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. It showed a softer side to the Clansman's trademark gruff and grimy style, while also showcasing MJB's ever-intoxicating voice. As a testament to the song's universal appeal, it went on to win for best rap performance by a duo or group at the 1996 Grammy Awards.
Other suggested cuts:
Brand Nubian "Love Me or Leave Me Alone"
Black Star "Brown Skin Lady"
Snoop Dogg feat. Pharrell "Beautiful"
50 Cent "21 Questions"
Raekwon, Ghostface, Cappadonna, Meth "Ice Cream"
Jungle Brothers "Behind the Bush"
De La Soul, Q-Tip, Jungle Bros. "Buddy"
Lil' Kim "Crush on You"
Biggie and R. Kelly "F*** You Tonight"
MC Shan "Left Me Lonely"
Pete Rock and CL Smooth "Lot's of Lovin'"
Big Pun "I'm Not a Player"
Geto Boys "Quickie"
LL cool J done some wicked rap love songs he started that whole thing with i need love and his most recent one was hush baby. He originated the whole rap love thing now every one is doing it.
LL cool J done some wicked rap love songs he started that whole thing with i need love and his most recent one was hush baby. He originated the whole rap love thing now every one is doing it.
Yes sure he has done some great love/rap song, but I cant agree that he started it. There have been many rappers that have done great love songs, maybe slightly grittier than conventional love songs, but still that sort of thing anyhow.
Imo run dmc were one of the best group of rappers, but drugs and alcohol took them as it takes many a good rapper.
Im not a huge rap fan but one song I always loved was Mama I'm in love with a Gangsta by Coolio, not quite "romantic" but the lyrics always got me.
Romantic Rap Classics
Re: Romantic Rap Classics
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