E-40, a name synonymous with Bay Area rap, has carved out an illustrious career spanning decades. From the streets of Vallejo to national recognition, his unique flow and entrepreneurial spirit have solidified his place as a hip-hop icon. Known for his flamboyant raps and the establishment of Sick Wid’ It Records, E-40 has been instrumental in nurturing the vibrant rap scene of the East San Francisco Bay. Before diving into his extensive catalog, it’s worth noting the diverse venues E-40 has graced, from intimate clubs like Parq and Time to iconic stages such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the YouTube Theater, showcasing his widespread appeal and enduring presence in the music scene. Fans eager to catch him live can look forward to upcoming performances in Reno/Lake Tahoe, Las Vegas, Seattle, and Napa Valley, further proving his active and continuous engagement with his audience.
Now, without further ado, let’s delve into the essential tracks that define his legacy. Here are the top 10 E-40 songs of all time, tracks that not only represent his musical journey but also highlight his influence on the rap genre.
Top 10 E-40 Songs: Essential Tracks from the 40 Fonzarelli
Here’s a countdown of the top 10 E-40 songs that every fan should know, showcasing his evolution and impact on hip-hop culture.
1. Captain Save a Hoe (feat. The Click, D-Shot, B-Legit & Suga T)
Released early in his career, “Captain Save a Hoe” is a quintessential E-40 track featuring his group The Click. This song, with its raw energy and memorable hook, became a regional anthem and showcased E-40’s signature style. The collaboration with The Click, including D-Shot, B-Legit, and Suga T, highlights the family affair that is Sick Wid’ It Records and their collective impact on the Bay Area rap scene. The track’s provocative title and lyrical content sparked conversations and cemented E-40’s reputation as a bold and unapologetic artist.
2. U and Dat (feat. T. Pain & Kandi Girl)
“U and Dat” marked a significant moment in E-40’s career, bringing him mainstream success in the mid-2000s. Featuring T-Pain and Kandi Girl, this track is a perfect blend of Bay Area hyphy and Southern crunk influences, reflecting his partnership with Lil Jon’s BME Recordings. The infectious beat and catchy chorus propelled “U and Dat” to become one of the most recognizable E-40 songs, crossing over into mainstream radio and introducing him to a broader audience. This collaboration showcased his ability to adapt and innovate while staying true to his roots.
3. Big Subwoofer (feat. Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, E-40 & Too $hort) – Single Version
“Big Subwoofer” is a powerhouse collaboration that brings together West Coast rap royalty. Featuring Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, E-40, and Too $hort, this track is a celebration of West Coast hip-hop and its enduring legacy. Each artist brings their signature style to the track, creating a high-energy anthem that resonates with fans of classic West Coast rap. E-40’s verse stands out with his complex rhyme schemes and distinctive delivery, holding his own alongside rap legends.
4. Choices (Yup)
“Choices (Yup)” is arguably E-40’s most globally recognized song, thanks to its viral popularity and catchy hook. The song’s simple yet effective concept of listing choices and asking “Yup or Nah?” became a cultural phenomenon. Beyond its meme-worthy nature, “Choices” is a testament to E-40’s ability to create engaging and relatable content. The track’s widespread appeal demonstrates his knack for connecting with audiences across different demographics, solidifying his status as a rap innovator.
5. Tell Me When to Go (feat. Keak da Sneak)
“Tell Me When to Go” is a quintessential hyphy anthem that captures the energy and spirit of the Bay Area movement. Featuring Keak da Sneak, this track is known for its high-octane beat and infectious energy, becoming a staple in clubs and parties. The song is a prime example of E-40’s commitment to promoting Bay Area culture and sound, helping to bring hyphy music to a national stage. Its raw and energetic vibe is distinctly E-40, showcasing his ability to create music that is both energetic and uniquely Californian.
6. My Shit Bang
“My Shit Bang” is a classic E-40 track that exemplifies his signature sound and lyrical prowess. With its hard-hitting beat and confident delivery, this song is a statement of E-40’s artistry and impact. The track is a favorite among longtime fans, representing the core elements of his music – strong beats, intricate rhymes, and a no-nonsense attitude. “My Shit Bang” underscores his consistency in delivering quality hip-hop throughout his extensive career.
7. Underrated (feat. Moneysign Suede) – Remix
“Underrated (Remix)” featuring Snoop Dogg and Moneysign Suede is a powerful track that highlights E-40’s continued relevance and ability to collaborate with both established and upcoming artists. The remix brings a fresh take to the original, with Snoop Dogg adding his iconic West Coast flavor and Moneysign Suede injecting new energy. The song title itself, “Underrated,” speaks to E-40’s career journey, often cited as a highly influential yet sometimes overlooked figure in hip-hop history, making this track resonate deeply with fans and critics alike.
8. Again
“Again” is a testament to E-40’s versatility and ability to create tracks that are both introspective and hard-hitting. While not as commercially popular as some of his other hits, “Again” is a deeply appreciated track by core fans for its lyrical depth and emotional resonance. The song showcases a different side of E-40, moving beyond party anthems to explore more personal and reflective themes, adding another layer to his artistic persona.
9. I Stand On That (feat. Joyner Lucas & T.I.)
“I Stand On That” is a more recent track that demonstrates E-40’s ability to stay current and collaborate with artists from different generations and regions. Featuring Joyner Lucas and T.I., this song is a showcase of lyrical dexterity and hip-hop craftsmanship. The collaboration with artists from different rap scenes highlights E-40’s widespread respect and influence within the hip-hop community. “I Stand On That” is a powerful statement of longevity and continued relevance in a constantly evolving music landscape.
10. B*tch (feat. Too $hort)
“B*tch” featuring Too $hort is a classic collaboration between two Bay Area legends. This track is a raw and unfiltered representation of West Coast hip-hop, known for its explicit lyrics and unapologetic attitude. The chemistry between E-40 and Too $hort is undeniable, making “B*tch” a fan favorite and a staple in their respective discographies. The song embodies the spirit of Bay Area rap – bold, independent, and undeniably impactful.
E-40: The Bay Area Ambassador
Earl Stevens, born on November 15, 1967, in Vallejo, California, is the man behind the moniker E-40. His journey began in 1990 with the formation of The Click and the release of their debut EP, “Let’s Side,” on his own independent label, Sick Wid’ It Records. This entrepreneurial move was not just the start of his music career but also the foundation for a thriving Bay Area rap empire.
E-40’s commitment to independence and regional pride is a defining characteristic of his career. Even after signing with Jive Records in 1994, he maintained a strong connection to his roots, consistently working with Bay Area artists and producers. This dedication fostered a sense of community and helped elevate the entire Bay Area rap scene. His early single “Captain Save a Hoe” was instrumental in securing his deal with Jive, highlighting his early impact and regional popularity.
Throughout the 90s and into the early 2000s, E-40 released a string of albums on Jive, building a dedicated fanbase and solidifying his reputation as a consistent and innovative artist. Albums like “In a Major Way” (1995) marked significant milestones, featuring collaborations with 2Pac, Mac Mall, and Spice 1, and producing fan favorites like “Da Bumble” and “Sideways.” While mainstream chart success was sporadic, his influence and regional dominance were undeniable.
His partnership with Lil Jon and BME Recordings in 2006 for the album “My Ghetto Report Card” marked a resurgence in national attention. The album spawned hits like “Tell Me When to Go” and “U and Dat,” reintroducing E-40 to a new generation of fans and proving his enduring relevance. This period also coincided with the rise of the hyphy movement, with E-40 at the forefront, championing the unique sound and culture of the Bay Area.
E-40’s extensive discography and countless collaborations speak volumes about his work ethic and influence. He has remained a constant presence in hip-hop, mentoring new artists and continuing to release music that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners. His role extends beyond music; he is a cultural icon, an entrepreneur, and a true ambassador for the Bay Area.
In conclusion, E-40’s contribution to hip-hop is immense and multifaceted. From his early independent releases to his mainstream successes, he has consistently pushed boundaries and innovated while staying true to his Bay Area roots. Explore his discography, listen to these top 10 songs, and witness the journey of a true hip-hop legend.
