Compiling a list of the top 10 best Jadakiss songs of all time proved to be a challenging task, given the rapper’s consistent delivery of quality verses throughout his illustrious 20+ year career. Hailing from Yonkers, New York, Jadakiss, also known as Kiss, formed the LOX alongside Sheek Louch and Styles P, navigating the realms of both rap and street life.
With an extensive discography, including five solo albums, four LOX albums, and numerous classic mixtapes, Jadakiss has secured his position as a certified OG in the hip-hop world and undeniably one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Here’s a rundown of the top 10 best Jadakiss songs, featuring iconic tracks that showcase his lyrical prowess and storytelling:
1. “We Gonna Make It” (August 7, 2001 – Kiss tha Game Goodbye)
- Producer: The Alchemist
- Standout line: “Fuck the frail shit, uh, ’cause when my coke come in / They gotta use the scale that they weigh the whales with”
- Commentary: A New York anthem, this track’s impact was palpable during the LOX vs. Dipset Verzuz, with the entire Madison Square Garden chanting along.
2. “Who Shot Ya (Freestyle)” (May 2, 2010 – The Champ Is Here 3)
- Producers: Nashiem Myrick, Jean-Claude Olivier, Sean Combs
- Standout line: “The Black Mamba of the vocals, MJ of the Pro Tools, anti-social / Phil Jack on the track but I can’t coach you”
- Commentary: While not claiming to outdo Biggie, Jadakiss delivered an exceptional freestyle, ensuring its place alongside the original.
3. “It’s All About the Benjamins (Remix)” (July 22, 1997 – No Way Out)
- Producers: Puff Daddy, D-Dot
- Standout line: “I’m with Mo’ sippers, watched by gold diggers”
- Commentary: Jadakiss emerged as the MVP on this remix, contributing not only his own bars but also key elements to Puffy’s verse.
4. “Last Day” (March 25, 1997 – Life After Death)
- Producers: Havoc, Puffy, Stevie J.
- Standout line: “Who gon’ stop us? Your last joint double copper”
- Commentary: Despite Biggie’s dominance on the track, Jadakiss showcased his lyrical prowess, determined to prove his bars to the legendary figure.
5. “Why” (June 22, 2004 – Kiss of Death)
- Producer: Havoc
- Standout line: “Yo, why is Jadakiss as hard as it gets? / Why is the industry designed to keep the artist in debt?”
- Commentary: This crossover hit, featuring Anthony Hamilton, raised critical questions, securing its place as a standout track in Jadakiss’ repertoire.
6. “Knock Yourself Out” (August 7, 2001 – Kiss tha Game Goodbye)
- Producer: The Neptunes
- Standout line: “I knew her man, he was just up North / And would’ve got left up North, but he was the chef up North”
- Commentary: Initially hesitant about the beat, Jadakiss listened to Pharrell, resulting in a classic track that showcased his versatility.
7. “Made You Look (Remix)” (September 10, 2002 – N/A)
- Producer: Salaam Remi
- Standout line: “I’m top five, dead or alive, and that’s just off one LP”
- Commentary: In this remix, Jadakiss, alongside Ludacris, asserted his top-tier status, sparking the “top five dead or alive” conversation.
8. “Rite Where U Stand” (June 24, 2003 – The Ownerz)
- Producer: DJ Premier
- Standout line: “You wanna know why I invest / All my money into haze and into dope? / ‘Cause right now, I’m currently a slave for Interscope”
- Commentary: Teaming up with Gang Starr, Jadakiss delivered a catchy hook and formidable bars, solidifying his MVP status.
9. “New York” (October 27, 2004 – R.U.L.E.)
- Producers: Cool & Dre
- Standout line: “And I’m not cocky, I’m confident / So when you tell me I’m the best it’s a compliment”
- Commentary: Despite the ongoing 50 Cent vs. Ja Rule beef, “New York” emerged as a dope track, with Jadakiss representing Ruff Ryders and D-Block.
10. “Run” with Ghostface Killah (April 20, 2004 – The Pretty Toney Album) – Producer: RZA – Standout line: “Don’t leave nothing unbagged, shave everything / I learned from the OGs to save everything” – Commentary: Connecting with Ghostface Killah, this collaboration over gritty RZA production delivered vivid storytelling and cinematic vibes.
This list celebrates the diverse facets of Jadakiss’ career, featuring tracks that showcase his lyricism, versatility, and impact on the hip-hop landscape.
