Tech N9ne, the Kansas City King, boasts a vast and diverse discography that has captivated fans for decades. For those looking to delve into his extensive catalog, especially his earlier work, understanding where to start can be overwhelming. This guide serves as your curated entry point into the world of “Old Tech N9ne,” highlighting the essential tracks that define his raw talent and innovative sound from his initial rise. This selection mirrors a classic mixtape, focusing on the period before his career shifted towards a more celebratory phase, offering a potent dose of his signature darkness and lyrical dexterity.
Tech N9ne with spiked hair in 2009, showcasing his iconic look from his older era.
This curated list of Tech N9ne Songs is perfect for longtime fans seeking a nostalgic revisit and new listeners eager to discover the foundations of his legendary status. It’s designed to capture the essence of what many consider his golden era, a time when his music was characterized by intense lyrical complexity and a darker, more introspective tone.
1. “Hellevator” – The Descent Begins
Originally a brief but impactful interlude from the Anghellic album, “Hellevator” is the perfect sonic gateway to this collection of classic Tech N9ne songs. In just 17 seconds, it sets a menacing tone with the spoken line, “Welcome to Hell, we have such sights to show you.” This track acts as a stark warning and an invitation to the intense musical journey ahead, preparing the listener for the lyrical onslaught that is quintessential Tech N9ne.
2. “Tormented” – Raw Energy and Lyrical Themes
“Tormented” explodes onto the scene with aggressive guitar riffs, sharp hi-hats, and explosive sound effects, immediately establishing the high-energy vibe of early Tech N9ne songs. This track is a quintessential example of his early style, delving into themes of ambition, temptation, and inner conflict. The distorted vocal interplay and the recurring phrase “father pleases” add layers of complexity and intrigue. Lyrically, “Tormented” encapsulates the raw, unfiltered themes prevalent in “Old Tech N9ne” music: the pursuit of wealth, indulgence in vices, and the struggle with inner demons. A standout line, “Can’t shake it/Try to pass it by but homey I/Can’t make it/If it was non-existent I would die!” perfectly captures this internal battle.
3. “Here Comes Tecca Nina” – Introducing the Signature Flow
Built upon a simple yet effective kick-clap beat, “Here Comes Tecca Nina” is a masterclass in flow and rhythm. This song highlights Tech N9ne’s signature rapid-fire delivery and intricate rhyme schemes. The track is instantly catchy with its memorable chorus and showcases his “gritty flow” that dominates the beat, particularly in the second verse. Notably, “Here Comes Tecca Nina” also contains one of the earliest references to “Caribou Lou,” a cocktail that would later become iconic in Tech N9ne’s musical universe. The line, “You got me bent, we rolls all peelin skrilla/Roll call willin’ killaz froze yall feelin’ millas,” exemplifies his lyrical dexterity and vivid imagery.
4. “Big Bad Wolf” – Lyrical Mastery and Intricate Diction
“Big Bad Wolf” begins with a menacing wolf growl, setting the stage for a track that is both playful and fiercely lyrical. While the chorus samples Soft Cell’s “Tainted Love,” adding an unexpected twist, the focus quickly shifts to Tech N9ne’s unparalleled lyrical prowess. This song is a showcase of his intricate diction and complex rhyme patterns, solidifying his reputation as one of hip-hop’s most technically gifted lyricists. The concluding lines, “Cause I’ma let ya know that wolf in reverse says flow/I gotta big bad flow and I’ma let ya nigga know that I rip it,” are a self-aware nod to his lyrical dominance and the song’s clever wordplay.
5. “I’m A Playa” – Catchy Hooks and Guilty Pleasures
“I’m A Playa” stands out as a potential radio hit that unfortunately never reached its full potential. Sampling Falco, the song creates a unique and undeniably catchy backdrop for Tech N9ne’s verses. It blends a narrative of his musical journey with his signature “wickedness,” creating a compelling contrast. Verse three provides a humorous “Playa instruction manual,” adding a playful element. The song also features an early appearance from Krizz Kaliko, who delivers the memorable line, “I’m in hot pursuit of a prostitute.” Despite its catchy nature, “I’m A Playa” retains the lyrical complexity and thematic depth characteristic of Tech N9ne songs from this era.
6. “Earthquake” – Innovative Production and Reverse Rap
“Earthquake” is a sonic experiment featuring a reversed bassline and Tech N9ne utilizing reverse rapping techniques, showcasing his innovative approach to music creation. The track is intellectually stimulating, referencing concepts of melanin and psychology. However, it also delves into darker themes, exemplified by the line, “love is irrelevant when you hittin the demon lookin hella elegant.” “Earthquake” demonstrates Tech N9ne’s willingness to push boundaries both lyrically and sonically, making it a standout track in his catalog.
7. “Devil Boy” – Confrontation and Controversy
“Devil Boy,” from the re-release of Anghellic, is a direct and aggressive response to accusations and criticisms leveled against Tech N9ne. This track is a powerful display of defiance and lyrical attack, with Tech N9ne holding nothing back in his confrontation. The song features a notable metal breakdown in the second verse, marked by the intense declaration, “I love Lucifer I will kill all of you!!!!” “Devil Boy” is a raw and unfiltered expression of anger and artistic integrity, solidifying its place as a crucial Tech N9ne song for understanding his artistic battles.
8. “Slacker” – Guilty Pleasure with Depth
“Slacker,” despite being debated as a lead single choice, is a track that resonates with many as a guilty pleasure. Lyrically, it’s rich with allusions to hip-hop legends Biggie and 2Pac and contains socially conscious lines like, “I’m a product of Reagonomics,” touching upon the impact of economic policies. While some may find it slightly “corny,” the track is undeniably catchy and relatable, particularly with lines like, “I stay rid of you lames (yall gay) and play video games (all day).” “Slacker” highlights Tech N9ne’s ability to blend serious themes with lighter, more accessible elements.
9. “This Ring” – Honesty and Personal Turmoil
“This Ring” is considered by many to be one of the most profoundly honest songs in hip-hop. In this deeply personal track, Tech N9ne lays bare his inner turmoil and struggles with fame, fortune, and family life. He openly shares his feelings of unease, confusion, and torment as he navigates the challenges of his personal life amidst his growing career. The song’s emotional rawness and vulnerability are palpable, especially in lines like, “With all the fame and fortune shit ought to be fine/But what happens when the divorce papers just gotta be signed/And you lose half and your children cause you gotta be N9ne.” “This Ring” offers a rare glimpse into the personal life of Tech N9ne, making it a deeply impactful song.
10. “Now It’s On” – Fierce Rebuttal and Lyrical Fury
“Now It’s On” is another example of Tech N9ne channeling criticism into aggressive and technically brilliant music. When faced with doubt, he responds with tracks like this, filled with “gritty, biting, intricate, and furious” flows designed to ignite the listener’s energy. The song features rapid-fire deliveries from both Tech N9ne and Lejo, creating a dynamic and intense listening experience. It also marks one of the early uses of “Beatrice,” his slang term for “bitch,” adding another layer to his evolving lyrical style. “Now It’s On” is a testament to Tech N9ne’s resilience and ability to turn negativity into powerful art.
11. “Stamina” – Concise and Powerful Interlude
“Stamina” serves as a brief but potent interlude that encapsulates Tech N9ne’s musical ethos. In just a few bars, he distills the essence of his music and artistic drive. The track is so impactful that it’s known for its bass-heavy intensity, with the author humorously noting its potential to damage car speakers. “Stamina” is a concentrated burst of energy and lyrical precision, solidifying its place as a memorable interlude in this collection of Tech N9ne songs.
12. “Psycho Bitch” – Dark Humor and Cautionary Tales
“Psycho Bitch” takes a darkly humorous turn, offering a cautionary tale about relationships with unstable partners. Sampling the “Halloween Theme,” the song amplifies the sense of dread and paranoia, painting “crazy women” as a formidable force. While potentially controversial, the song resonates with listeners who have experienced similar relationship dynamics. The opening verse, “the fatal attraction will only get you ice packs/Better watch what you do when you sleep with a woman that’s on the edge/ in your bed cause you’ll be resting in red,” vividly illustrates the song’s central theme. “Psycho Bitch” blends dark humor with a serious undertone, making it a uniquely memorable Tech N9ne track.
13. “Trapped in a Psycho’s Body” – Introspective Darkness and Pain
“Trapped in a Psycho’s Body” shifts the tone dramatically, creating a mood of profound darkness and introspection. With its slow beat, melancholic piano chords, and somber strings, the song evokes feelings of stress and pain. It’s a raw and unsettling track, yet Tech N9ne’s lyrical skill makes even this darkness strangely compelling. Krizz Kaliko’s appearance at the end adds another layer of emotional depth. The opening line, “Don’t you come near me cause the devils sittin’ next to me/I drink my drink and smoke my weed and pop my ecstasy,” immediately plunges the listener into Tech N9ne’s troubled state of mind. “Trapped in a Psycho’s Body” is a powerful example of his ability to explore and articulate profound emotional depths through his music.
14. “The Industry Is Punks” – Defiance and Artistic Integrity
“The Industry Is Punks” is an anthem of defiance against industry pressures and a declaration of artistic independence. Filled with anger and frustration, Tech N9ne asserts his commitment to staying true to himself and refusing to conform to mainstream expectations. The aggressive horns in the beat amplify the song’s confrontational tone, reminiscent of tracks like 50 Cent’s “I’ll Whip Ya Head Boy.” The third verse is particularly intense, showcasing Tech N9ne’s lyrical aggression. Lines like, “How many 2 pacs and JZ’s and Master P’s can they conceive? Don’t they know a few gloc’s 380’s and master keys will make’em bleed,” highlight his frustration with industry trends and his unwavering artistic vision.
15. “Planet Rock 2K” – Party Anthem with a Twist
“Planet Rock 2K” unexpectedly samples the “Theme From Dragnet,” transforming it into a high-energy party track. This song showcases Tech N9ne’s ability to innovate and create something fresh and fun from unlikely sources. It’s a high-energy, original track with a great beat, catchy flow, and memorable hook. Reflecting on this song in retrospect, it raises questions about why Tech N9ne didn’t achieve even greater mainstream recognition earlier in his career, given his evident talent and originality. The line, “Call it what you want it, ghetto futuristic come get up on it, there’s a Bianc up in my section can I bone it?” exemplifies the song’s playful and energetic vibe. “Planet Rock 2K” is a testament to Tech N9ne’s versatility and ability to craft compelling music across different styles.
16. “Imma Tell” – Technical Brilliance and Lyrical Patterns
“Imma Tell” is a masterclass in technical rapping, characterized by its intricate lyrical patterns and tight delivery. The song is known for its complex rhyme schemes, including double-time sections that showcase Tech N9ne’s exceptional breath control and rhythmic precision. The bass-heavy beat provides a solid foundation for his lyrical acrobatics. The song also includes references to chakra, appealing to listeners with an interest in esoteric themes. The verse containing, “Stagger, when you with the nuthouse we gonna have ya/Taking everything up in the book from ex to that puff you/Lookin’ to get took. Abracadabra, 151 and coke is Viagra,” exemplifies the song’s complex wordplay and rapid-fire delivery. “Imma Tell” is a must-listen for those who appreciate the technical aspects of rap music.
17. “Biancas and Beatrices” – Fast Rap and Womanizing Themes
“Biancas and Beatrices” is a high-energy track driven by fast raps and a womanizing theme. While some may find it abrasive, fans of fast-paced rapping will appreciate Tech N9ne’s delivery and the song’s relentless energy. The beat features harem-like strings, enhancing the song’s thematic focus on women. The chorus is catchy and becomes increasingly enjoyable with familiarity. The line, “You’s a biank baby, whether you like it or not/but you hot especially with ex & vicaden popped,” is a quintessential example of the song’s brash and fast-paced lyrical content. “Biancas and Beatrices” is a high-octane track that showcases Tech N9ne’s ability to command fast tempos.
18. “Einstein” – The Pinnacle of “Old Tech N9ne”
“Einstein” concludes this collection, perfectly encapsulating the essence of “Old Tech N9ne.” Sampling the Beat Box Boys, Tech N9ne delivers a murderous flow that embodies his self-proclaimed brilliance. “Einstein,” meaning gifted or exceptionally intelligent, is a track that celebrates his lyrical prowess and villainous persona. It is considered a hall-of-fame level rap song by many fans and represents the pinnacle of the creativity, cleverness, and intricacy that defined his early work. The opening lines, “If you got scratch nigga get the fuck up/Throw your hands up if you hella fucked up,” are iconic and immediately grab the listener’s attention. “Einstein” is the definitive track to understand and appreciate the raw talent and innovative spirit of “Old Tech N9ne.”
This curated selection provides a comprehensive introduction to the essential Tech N9ne songs from his earlier era. While platforms like iTunes might impose limits on playlist length, this collection captures the core of what makes “Old Tech N9ne” so compelling. Dive into this playlist and rediscover the raw, unfiltered genius of Tech N9ne’s foundational work. Create your own mixtape and experience the evolution of a true hip-hop innovator.
