For so many years, the hip-hop scene in India was being controlled by artists like Yo Yo Honey Singh and Badshah. But very few people were aware of the underground scene that was running in parallel. This year finally saw these underground artists entering the mainstream, giving a tough challenge to the big artists. The ultimate beneficiary of this uprising has been the audience, which has been treated to spectacular hip-hop music all year long. Let us recount some of the best hip-hop songs that came out this year.
Kaam 25 – Divine
Sacred Games was all the rage earlier this year, and this song from its OST didn’t take much time to achieve popularity. It showcases Divine’s stronghold on grounded lyrics and his brilliant rapping style.
Samajh Mein Aaya Kya – Emiway
This is the first song from the diss that was to provide so much entertainment to fans. In this one, Emiway picked up a beef with not just Raftaar, but also Divine and a Pune rapper named MC Stan.
Sheikh Chilli – Raftaar
And this was Raftaar’s reply to Emiway’s jibes. Sheikh Chilli is an utterly energetic track that gives a fitting reply to the diss from Emiway’s Samajh Mein Aaya Kya.
Girlfriend – Dino James
The lyrics to Girlfriend may be questionable, but it has still managed to grab more than 14 million views on YouTube. The song is a high-octane rant against how women behave in relationships.
Paintra – Divine
From the movie Mukkabaaz, Paintra has been rendered by Divine, but its foot-thumping music has been provided by none other than Nucleya. It’s the kind of song that instantly succeeds in getting you charged up.
Mazak Hai Kya – Emiway
This is yet another big hit from Emiway. A volatile song filled with resilient raps, Mazak Hai Kya is one of Emiway’s finest performances till date.
Jaag Jao – Kaam Bhaari
This is not exactly a full-fledged song, but it’s one that will definitely make you fall in love with the artist. Recorded at the famous Gully Gang cypher in Mumbai, Jaag Jao by Kaam Bhaari has a truck full of originality in it and nothing else. Expect a full version of this song in next year’s Gully Boys, starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt.
What are the songs that you would have chosen to be added to this list?
