It’s already the beginning of March, which means that spring is quickly approaching. Whether it’s the sunny days, warm weather, or spring break trips (for those lucky enough to still have those), the spring always calls for a change in music. Spring music is usually faster in tempo and less serious with the lyrics. It’s the kick back and relax, good times, and no worries mentality. Every spring I tend to get a little hip hop/rap itch. This year isn’t any different, and although I’m not a specialist in the genre, I still know what I like. Here are a few of my current favorites:
- “Rocketeer” by Far East Movement featuring Ryan Tedder: Far East Movement is an LA based electro-hip hop group that made their first big break onto the popular music scene with “Round Round,” which was featured in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift. Many people didn’t recognize the group until 2010 when “Like a G6″ made it’s way to the #1 spot on Billboard and iTunes charts. Although that song is still getting significant playtime on American radio waves, I am partial to “Rocketeer.” There is something about the song that keeps me turning the volume up and my body moving. The simple beat is mixed with background keyboard and electric soundboards and it’s accompanied by easily understood lyrics. It’s a great track to put on when you need a pick-me-up during a run or a feel-good boost during a workout. (Other songs that have potential to be made into singles: “White Flag,” “Don’t Look Now,” and “Fighting For Air“)
“Where we go we don’t need roads (roads), Where we stop nobody knows (knows), To the stars if you really want it. Got, got a jetpack with your name on it, Above the clouds in the atmosphere (phere), Just say the words and we outta here (outta here), Hold my hand if you feeling scared (scared), We flying up, up outta here.
Here we go, come with me. There’s a world out there that we should see. Take my hand, close your eyes. With you right here, I’m a rocketeer.
Let’s fly. Up, up here we go, go. Up, up here we go, go. Let’s fly, Up, up here we go, go. Where we stop nobody knows, knows”
- “Buzzin’” by Mann featuring 50 Cent: A shout-out to one of my friends for sending me this song awhile ago. I always found it catchy, but it has made its way to one of my favorite fun songs after it kept being played on my shuffled playlist. This is one of the ultimate good mood songs. It takes a good portion from the 1980′s Nu Shooz hit “I Can’t Wait.” Who doesn’t love a throwback with a new school vibe?
- “Champion” by Chipmunk featuring Chris Brown: This track contains two of my weaknesses: Brits and pianos. The combination of the two create what may be my favorite current pop song. (That’s hard for me to do with my taste of music being so far reaching). Chipmunk is a hot British hip-hop artist that has been making a name for himself over the past few years after winning to MOBO awards in the UK in 2008. This was a solid track for Chris Brown to be a part of through his work of reinstating his position as an artist after the social turmoil that became his life a few years ago. One thing that sets this song apart from the others on this list are the lyrics. They actually hold some meaning. Bring yourself to be beyond your best, and live to the potential that you were born with.
“Work your own way to the top. If they put you on a pedestal, they can take you off. And there’s a higher level than the top. You gotta make more, don’t make do with what you got.
Yeah, so go and get it in sonny. Not everybody get’s a second chance at getting money. Or even getting lucky, So you gotta fill the hunger in your tummy.
I’m always pushing myself to the limit. Making sure I stay ahead, You made me who I am, From the words you said.
Some people have to learn. Some people wait their turn. Some people, but not me. I was born champion.
Some people have to fight. Some people give their lives. Some people don’t believe, But I was born a champion. But I was born a champion. But I was born a champion.Ok, no one wants to help, I guess you’re on your own. Build the foundation with the bricks they’ve thrown. In a black and white world true colours show. Change if you want, everybody grows
And life’s like an ill, but try an’ get a hold. Opinions ain’t facts take ‘em in an’ let ‘em go. You made me who I am, From the words you said.
Some people have to learn. Some people wait their turn. Some people, but not me. I was born champion.”
- “Show Goes On” by Lupe Fiasco: Chicago based hip hop rapper Lupe Fiasco stormed the scene with his Billboard hit “Superstar.” The single garnered nominations for multiple awards, from the BET awards, Grammys, VMA’s, MOBO’s, and Teen Choice Awards. Lupe is releasing a new album, Lasers, at the end of this week, and this album is going to explode on the charts. There are so many great tracks that it is hard to pick just a few to talk about. “Shining Down“ was rumored to be the first single from the album, and even though it was released in 2009, I think there are other songs on the upcoming album that are going to amass a larger following. The first track that really stood out to me was “The Show Goes On.” This song definitely has a mass appeal that will hit the pop/hiphop stations around the country. The steady beat harvests and easy to follow chorus, but Fiasco steps up his flow in each verse. I have loved running to this song for the past week. ”I Don’t Wanna Care Right Now” (featuring MDMA) is another song from the album that I am really digging. It exhibits Lupe’s signature rap flow, but it also has electric accents in the chorus that will bring commercial appeal. I dare you to try to hold back dancing to this song. It’s nearly impossible! Lasers has the potential to hit the charts in a big way. I highly suggest checking it out. (“Coming Up” feat MDMD is also bound to be another party hit!)
Other songs that are big for the spring:
