MF DOOM. The name itself conjures images of a masked enigma, a lyrical titan, and one of hip-hop’s most revered figures. For many, including myself, discovering MF DOOM’s music feels like uncovering a hidden gem, a comforting dive into lo-fi beats and unparalleled wordplay. From the nostalgic chords of “Doomsday” sampling Sade, to the intricate narratives woven throughout his vast catalog, Daniel Dumile, the man behind the mask, left an indelible mark on the music world.
Before his untimely passing at just 49 years old on October 31st, 2020, MF DOOM crafted a monumental body of work. His discography boasts six studio albums, alongside a wealth of collaborative, instrumental, and compilation projects, offering a universe ripe for exploration for both longtime fans and new listeners. Beyond the music, DOOM’s persona, inspired by the Marvel supervillain Doctor Doom, became iconic. He built a world of characters and stories, blending fiction with autobiographical hints, all underscored by his signature cartoon samples and sound effects, solidifying his place as hip-hop’s ultimate supervillain. Often described as a one-man Hanna-Barbera of hip-hop, DOOM was the genre’s Stan Lee, a self-proclaimed Doctor Doom, yet equally a master engineer akin to Tony Stark in his sonic craftsmanship. His legacy continues to expand, inviting listeners to revisit and discover new layers within his complex and captivating universe.
In 2024, we celebrate the 20th anniversary of MM..FOOD, a seminal MF DOOM album, now re-released with fresh artwork by Sam Rodriguez. This record, a journey into a whimsical world of food metaphors, remains a cornerstone of his discography.
MF DOOM MM..FOOD Album Cover
To commemorate his enduring impact, I’ve curated a selection of my personal favorite Mf Doom Songs. These tracks are not just songs; they are portals into the intricate worlds DOOM constructed, showcasing his lyrical genius and the profound emotional depth within his music. Join me as we delve into some of the greatest MF DOOM songs, celebrating the artistry of a true hip-hop legend. Rest in beats, to the greatest to ever do it.
MF DOOM Masked Portrait
Constipated Monkey
Bl_ck B_st_rds (as KMD)
Before the masked persona of MF DOOM, there was KMD. This group, formed in 1988 in Long Beach, New York, featured Daniel Dumile as Zev Love X alongside his brother Dingilizwe “DJ Subroc” Dumile and Jade 1. KMD embodied the pro-Black consciousness prevalent in 90s golden age hip hop. “Constipated Monkey,” from their second and final album Bl_ck B_st_rds, perfectly captures their quirky humor and the undeniable chemistry between the group members. The track is a testament to their playful banter and off-kilter style. Tragically, the camaraderie was cut short by Subroc’s untimely death in a road accident. Coupled with label disputes over the album’s artwork, KMD disbanded, and Zev Love X disappeared from the music scene, only to re-emerge later as the masked enigma, MF DOOM. This song offers a glimpse into the origins of a legendary artist, showcasing his early talent within a group setting.
Doomsday
Operation Doomsday
“On Doomsday, ever since the womb / ‘Til I’m back where my brother went, that’s what my tomb will say / Right above my government; Dumile / Either unmarked or engraved; hey, who’s to say?”
“Doomsday” is arguably one of the most iconic MF DOOM songs, and for good reason. Despite its lyrical contemplation of mortality and legacy, the track evokes a profound sense of peace. It feels almost prophetic, with DOOM reflecting on his life’s work and his eventual end. The genius lies in the seamless blend of the melancholic drum beat with the ethereal vocals sampled from Sade’s “Kiss of Life”. This sample elevates the track, creating a sonic landscape that is both introspective and soothing. “Doomsday” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem that encapsulates the depth and complexity of MF DOOM’s artistry, making it a cornerstone of his renowned discography. It’s a perfect entry point for anyone wanting to understand the magic of MF DOOM songs.
Fancy Clown
Madvillainy (Madvillain, Madlib, MF DOOM)
“Fancy Clown” might just feature my all-time favorite sample in any MF DOOM song. It might even surpass my love for “Doomsday”! The track masterfully loops Z.Z. Hill’s soulful and heartbroken “That Ain’t the Way You Make Love,” creating a poignant backdrop for the lyrical interplay between DOOM and his Viktor Vaughn persona. Yes, on this track, DOOM raps from two distinct perspectives, showcasing his narrative prowess. Viktor Vaughn laments his girlfriend’s infidelity with DOOM himself, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the storytelling. This heartbreak anthem is nestled within Madvillainy, widely considered one of the greatest hip-hop albums ever created. The collaboration with the masterful beatmaker Madlib on Madvillainy elevates MF DOOM songs to another level, and “Fancy Clown” is a prime example of their combined brilliance.
LIGHTWORKS
BORN LIKE THIS
BORN LIKE THIS, MF DOOM’s sixth and final studio album, was released by the esteemed British independent label Lex Records, a haven for experimental hip-hop and electronic music. My personal connection to this album runs deep – I bought it on vinyl even before working at Rough Trade, recognizing its essential status. It stands as a monumental collaboration between two titans of hip-hop: MF DOOM and J Dilla. DOOM himself described his creative synergy with Dilla as “telepathy,” and BORN LIKE THIS undeniably showcases some of Dilla’s most luminous production work. “Lightworks” is a brilliant reimagining of a track from Dilla’s instrumental masterpiece Donuts. The opening sample, taken from a 1960s electronic jingle composed by electronic music pioneer Raymond Scott for Lightworks cosmetics, is unexpectedly juxtaposed with the buoyant 60s jazz vocals of singer-actress Dorothy Collins. This unconventional blend creates a sonic tapestry that is both surprising and utterly captivating, highlighting DOOM’s genius for sonic alchemy.
Hoe Cakes
MM…FOOD
MM…FOOD is an album that truly exemplifies MF DOOM’s mastery of satire and sampling. Throughout the record, he cleverly uses food analogies to enrich and illustrate his narratives, creating a unique and whimsical listening experience. “Hoe Cakes” is a standout track from this project, instantly recognizable for its sample of Anita Baker’s smooth and soulful “Sweet Love.” DOOM flips the sparkling piano and lush funk arrangement into a head-nodding beat, proving his unparalleled ability to transform seemingly disparate musical elements into hip-hop gold. “Hoe Cakes” is a prime example of how MF DOOM songs can be both playful and profound, solidifying its place as a fan favorite from the MM..FOOD album.
Next Levels
Take Me To Your Leader (as King Geedorah)
“Next Levels,” under DOOM’s King Geedorah alias, creates a similar immersive atmosphere as “Doomsday.” In a meta twist, DOOM samples his own work, utilizing the beat from the Special Herbs 1 track “Arrow Root.” Take Me To Your Leader is a concept album that features a diverse array of voices from various solo rap artists and groups, all unified under the persona of King Geedorah. Inspired by the three-headed monster King Ghidorah, Godzilla’s nemesis, DOOM’s King Geedorah embodies an extraterrestrial observer offering an alien perspective on our world and the hip-hop landscape. “Next Levels” perfectly captures this concept, with its otherworldly soundscape and thought-provoking lyrics, making it a standout track within the King Geedorah project and the broader spectrum of MF DOOM songs.
Licorice
Metal Fingers Presents: Special Herbs, Vol.7 and 8
“Licorice” might be an unexpected choice for this list, but this instrumental track holds a special place in my heart. It became a personal favorite after a deep dive into MF DOOM’s extensive catalog years ago, so much so that I even used it for a film project during my university days. This track is a quintessential example of DOOM’s signature sound: a boom-bap beat layered with shimmering instrumentation that captivates even without vocals. “Licorice” samples a section of “All I Ask” by The Blackbyrds, a jazz-funk fusion band that heavily influenced DOOM’s imaginative production style. This instrumental gem showcases his mastery of crafting evocative soundscapes, proving that MF DOOM songs can be just as powerful without lyrics, highlighting his production prowess.
Rapp Snitch Knishes
MM…FOOD
“Rap snitches, telling all their business!” With “Rapp Snitch Knishes,” MF DOOM truly struck gold. The infectious guitar riff sample, taken from the guitar break in David Matthew’s “Space Odyssey,” is instantly captivating and almost speaks for itself. Enlisting the enigmatic Mr. Fantastik, who also features on Take Me To Your Leader, DOOM and his collaborator deliver some of their sharpest and most memorable bars, directly calling out the “snitches” within the rap world. This track from MM..FOOD is not just a catchy tune; it’s a lyrical assault on betrayal and gossip, delivered with DOOM’s signature wit and wordplay, making it a standout and widely recognized MF DOOM song.
Means the Most
NEHRUVIANDOOM (Bishop Nehru, MF DOOM)
At just 16 years old, Bishop Nehru played his first show outside the US, and his first ever international trip, in London’s iconic 100 Club. He was supporting his heroes: MF DOOM and Ghostface Killah in a co-headline performance. This pivotal moment paved the way for Bishop Nehru to become DOOM’s protégé and young sidekick, leading to the creation of the NEHRUVIANDOOM project. While NEHRUVIANDOOM songs may not always be top picks for die-hard DOOM purists, the collaborative album showcases DOOM’s strength in nurturing talent and exploring different sonic territories. “Means The Most” exemplifies a softer, more melodic side of DOOM’s production. Nehru’s delivery and lyricism evoke the positive vibes of 90s boom bap, with story-driven verses and warm, analogue sounds. This track highlights the versatility within MF DOOM songs and his ability to adapt his style to complement other artists.
One Beer
MM…FOOD
“One Beer” is a masterclass in sample-heavy production, showcasing MF DOOM’s eclectic taste and unparalleled skill in weaving together disparate sound sources. The track is peppered with snippets from diverse media, including The New Fantastic Four TV show, the Spider-Man TV show, and The Late Show With David Letterman. However, the most prominent and captivating sample is undoubtedly from the French jazz band Cortex’s “Huit Octobre 1971.” This sample, a rich tapestry of jazz, funk, soul, and rock with distinctive warbling vocals, is skillfully integrated into the track. MF DOOM is often credited with introducing countless hip-hop fans and music lovers to Cortex through this song, serving as a testament to his exceptional ear for music discovery and his love for sharing his influences through his MF DOOM songs.
Accordion
Madvillainy (Madlib, MF DOOM)
“Living off borrowed time, the clock tick faster.” This chilling opening line of “Accordion” feels particularly poignant when considering DOOM’s life and legacy. Built upon a deceptively simple beat and a melancholic sample, this Madlib-produced track allows DOOM to fully showcase his nonchalant yet impactful streetwise lyricism. “Accordion” is a prime example of the musical synergy between DOOM and Madlib. It demonstrates how their collaborative MF DOOM songs on Madvillainy were able to create something truly unique and timeless, solidifying its place as a standout track within their joint discography.
All Caps
Madvillainy (Madlib, MF DOOM)
Another gem from Madvillainy, “All Caps” is an epic sonic journey. The track is built upon tumbling piano chords, a deliberate and driving flow, and layers of building trumpets and intricate instrumentation. Interspersed with cartoon and superhero TV samples, “All Caps” evolves into a grand world-building experience, perfectly embodying the supervillain persona. The track culminates in an instructional message, a demand for respect: “ALL CAPS when you spell the man’s name!” This iconic line and the song as a whole have become synonymous with MF DOOM, solidifying “All Caps” as an anthem and one of the most recognizable MF DOOM songs.
GAZILLION EAR
BORN LIKE THIS
“GAZILLION EAR” further exemplifies the unparalleled alchemy between MF DOOM and J Dilla. This track is a showcase of DOOM’s remarkable beat switches and his signature, intricate wordplay. The song’s structure and sonic shifts keep the listener constantly engaged, highlighting both artists’ innovative approaches to hip-hop production and lyricism. For those seeking another dimension to the track, the Thom Yorke remix is definitely worth exploring, offering a different perspective on this already multifaceted MF DOOM song.
Break in the Action
Super What? (CZARFACE, MF DOOM)
The wordplay and pop culture references in “Break in the Action” are simply off the charts. Lines like “Last name Lannister, call me Kingslayer,” “None this ill since Kareem was a Laker,” and “Sick of playing optimistic like I’m in Thom Yorke’s band, You lost your mystique and leaked on 4chan for your four fans” are packed with wit and clever allusions. Amidst zany sound effects and vinyl scratches, Czarface and DOOM effortlessly bounce off each other, creating a playful and energetic track that is endlessly replayable. “Break in the Action” from Super What? highlights MF DOOM’s collaborative spirit and his ability to elevate any track with his unique lyrical style.
Can I Watch?
Vaudeville Villain (as Viktor Vaughn)
“Can I Watch?” is taken from Vaudeville Villain, an entire album written and performed under DOOM’s Viktor Vaughn alias, a play on a shortened version of Doctor Doom’s real name, Victor Von Doom. This track features Apani B. Fly, adding another layer to the narrative by portraying both sides of a complex and perhaps troubled romantic relationship. The atmosphere is eerie and dark, perfectly complementing the song’s themes of voyeurism and relationship dynamics. “Can I Watch?” is a prime example of DOOM’s narrative storytelling prowess and his ability to create distinct sonic and lyrical worlds within his various personas, making it a standout among Viktor Vaughn and MF DOOM songs.
Anti-Matter
Take Me To Your Leader (as King Geedorah)
“Anti-Matter,” another collaboration with Mr. Fantastik under the King Geedorah moniker, is a showcase of impeccable rhymes and precise sound design. The opening slant rhyme, “Expeditiously I be on my grizzly,” is particularly crisp and sets the tone for the track’s lyrical dexterity. DOOM masterfully manipulates sound to create complex yet accessible rhyme structures, perfectly suited to the immersive production and the array of sound effects. The lines “Warfare in your ear CLAK CLAK CLAK CLAK CLAK / What’s that you’re hearing things TAT TAT TAT TAT TAT” exemplify this sonic warfare, highlighting the attention to detail in MF DOOM songs and their overall impact.
Great Things
NEHRUVIANDOOM
“Great Things” sees Bishop Nehru and DOOM trading verses over punchy drum beats and a sun-drenched jazz-funk sample from Waltel Branco’s “Zoraia.” The track embodies the essence of golden age NYC hip-hop, radiating effortless cool and timeless appeal. The smooth, polysyllabic rhyme flows glide seamlessly over the upbeat instrumental, creating a track that is both uplifting and lyrically rich. “Great Things” is a testament to the cross-generational appeal of MF DOOM songs and his ability to connect with younger artists while staying true to his signature style.
Red and Gold
Operation Doomsday
Featuring an array of string samples, a coral sitar, intricate percussion, and powerful drums, “Red and Gold” is another stellar example of the captivating soundscapes MF DOOM constructed for his narratives. The track is rich in sonic textures and layers, creating a cinematic backdrop for DOOM’s lyrical explorations. “Red and Gold” makes numerous references to King Geedorah and even includes a variation of the character’s name, “King Ghidra.” This might be a reflection of the song’s exploration of DOOM’s Godzilla-inspired alter ego, adding a layer of mystery to the name variation. Regardless, “Red and Gold” is a testament to the sonic depth and narrative complexity found within MF DOOM songs.
Gas Drawls
Operation Doomsday
“Gas Drawls” is a fiery track from DOOM’s debut album, Operation Doomsday. It prominently samples Steely Dan’s “Black Cow” with the recurring vocal snippet “You Were Very High!” DOOM’s vocals on this track are punchy and reminiscent of his early style with KMD, showcasing a raw and head-nodding flow. “Gas Drawls” is a quintessential example of early MF DOOM songs, highlighting his sampling prowess and his ability to create compelling tracks even in his formative years as the masked villain.
Hey!
Operation Doomsday
What’s that dog yelp you hear? True to his form, MF DOOM masterfully chops and screws the first 15 seconds of the Scooby-Doo theme song for “Hey!”, layering sinister chords underneath the familiar melody. This track truly embodies MF DOOM’s boundless imagination and his penchant for the unexpected. “Hey!” is a key example of the epic and imaginative ride that is Operation Doomsday, showcasing the playful yet dark elements that define MF DOOM songs.
MF DOOM Performing Live
The Man Behind The Mask…
For those seeking to delve deeper into the world of MF DOOM, and for true DOOM purists and fanatics, there are resources to explore the enigmatic legend further.
S. H. Fernando – The Chronicles of Doom: This definitive biography charts the life, career, and enduring legacy of MF DOOM. Packed with behind-the-scenes insights and exclusive interviews with his collaborators, The Chronicles of Doom offers an unparalleled look into the man behind the mask. Signed copies are available for pre-order at Rough Trade.
MF DOOM ReAction Figures Wave 2 MF DOOM (Mm..Food): Embrace the DOOM ethos with the MF DOOM ReAction Figure Cereal Bowl Set. Inspired by the iconic MM..FOOD album cover, this collectible is a perfect way to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this classic record and to start your day off right with a bowl of the finest beats and rhymes.
Further Listening…
To continue your exploration of MF DOOM songs, delve into his collaborative projects. Explore JJ DOOM (with Jneiro Jarel), Rock Co.Kane Flow with De La Soul, “Belize” from the Danger Mouse and Black Thought album Cheat Codes, Sonnyjim and the Purist’s Barz Simpson featuring verses from MF DOOM and Jay Electronica, and the DangerDoom project, The Mouse and the Mask, produced with Danger Mouse. Each project offers a unique facet of DOOM’s artistry and expands the universe of MF DOOM songs to discover.
