Kanye West. Love him or hate him, his influence on music and culture is undeniable. From his early days as a sought-after producer to his meteoric rise as a solo artist, Kanye has consistently pushed boundaries, defied expectations, and sparked conversations. While his personal life and recent controversies have often overshadowed his artistic output, one thing remains unequivocally true: his discography is packed with groundbreaking, genre-bending, and utterly brilliant music. Choosing the best Kanye songs from such a vast and innovative catalog is no easy task. It’s a process that demands hours of debate, revisiting classic albums, and acknowledging the sheer volume of masterpieces he has created. When an artist operates at Kanye’s level, where even his deep cuts are often better than other artists’ biggest hits, ranking them becomes an exercise in splitting hairs. However, we’ve taken on the challenge. Below, you’ll find our definitive list of the 45 best Kanye West songs of all time, spanning nearly his entire studio album discography, his collaborative triumph Watch the Throne with JAY-Z, and a few essential standalone singles. Prepare to delve into the genius of Ye, and perhaps rediscover some of your own favorite tracks along the way.
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Here are the 45 Best Kanye West Songs of All Time.
45. “Homecoming”
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“Homecoming” is a heartwarming ode to Kanye’s roots. With its instantly recognizable piano riff and the soaring chorus vocals provided by Chris Martin of Coldplay, this track is a classic for a reason. Recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London, the song beautifully personifies Kanye’s hometown of Chicago as a cherished, long-lost love. It’s a testament to simpler times and the enduring power of home.
44. “Get Em High”
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While Kanye’s discography is filled with introspective and thought-provoking tracks, sometimes you just need a pure, unadulterated banger. “Get Em High” is that track. Legend has it that Talib Kweli witnessed Kanye craft this incredibly infectious beat in a mere 15 minutes. Kweli himself ended up jumping on the track at the last minute, joining Common who had already laid down his verses. Although the Clipse-esque production might not be Kanye’s most groundbreaking, it’s undeniably the perfect soundtrack for good times and elevated vibes.
43. “SELAH”
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“SELAH,” from the Jesus is King album, is a powerful and hard-hitting track. While some might argue that earlier versions were even stronger, this iteration still stands out as arguably the best song on the album. It’s a commanding intro that masterfully blends the uplifting sounds of the Sunday Service Choir with one of Kanye’s most impassioned vocal performances on the entire project. Within the context of Kanye’s vast catalog, “SELAH” might not reach the very top tier, but its impact and energy are undeniable.
42. “FML”
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“FML” offers a deeply intimate and candid glimpse into Kanye’s psyche. It’s a track where he’s at his most self-aware, vulnerable, and emotionally charged. Enhanced by a stellar feature from The Weeknd, who perfectly complements the song’s atmospheric beat, “FML” is a mesmerizing journey into the complex mind of Kanye West. The double meaning of the title, exploring both “For My Life” and the more explicit phrase, highlights the internal conflict between lust and love that often permeates Kanye’s work. And that spectral outro? Absolutely haunting and brilliantly executed.
41. “The New Workout Plan”
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Kanye’s sense of humor, when unleashed, is truly something to behold. “The New Workout Plan” is a prime example. This satirical take on workout mixtapes is not only a certified bop but also a sharp commentary on the unrealistic beauty standards imposed on women. The music video is pure campy delight, featuring the iconic Anna Nicole Smith and Tracie Ellis Ross in a hilariously over-the-top portrayal of fitness culture. It’s Kanye at his most playful and socially conscious, all wrapped in a catchy tune.
40. “Ghost Town”
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The ye album arrived amidst a period of personal turmoil for Kanye, and that tumultuous energy is inextricably linked to the album’s reception. However, within ye, “Ghost Town” shines brightly. This track represents the album’s emotional zenith, the one moment where Kanye’s often-cited hubris feels fully justified by the sheer artistry on display. Beyond Kanye’s own performance, “Ghost Town” will forever be celebrated as the platform for 070 Shake’s breathtaking and show-stopping guest verse, a true highlight in Kanye’s discography.
39. “Real Friends”
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The seamless transition from “FML” into “Real Friends” is a testament to Kanye’s masterful album sequencing. The initial release of “Real Friends” on Kanye’s SoundCloud prior to The Life of Pablo album drop caused a social media frenzy, generating immense excitement even among his toughest critics. “Real Friends” has become one of those timeless tracks perfect for late-night sessions with your closest confidantes, as the first rays of dawn peek through the blinds. It’s a song that speaks volumes in silence, fostering connection and understanding without a single word needing to be spoken.
38. “Fade”
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“Fade” is an electrifying blend of classic Chicago house samples, a touch of perfectly placed Autotune, and an absolutely explosive drum breakdown. The result? Pure fire. And let’s not forget the iconic music video featuring Teyana Taylor’s unforgettable dance performance. “Fade” is not just a song; it’s an experience, cementing its place as one of the best Kanye West songs and music videos of all time, showcasing his ability to fuse genres and create unforgettable moments.
37. “Send It Up”
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Yeezus is known for its sonic aggression and its eclectic roster of guest appearances. “Send It Up” is a prime example, featuring a truly bizarre and unforgettable cameo from King Louie. His wild, almost manic cackle is juxtaposed with what sounds like an air raid siren in the song’s opening moments, creating immediate sonic chaos. But it’s at the song’s conclusion, after a strong verse from Kanye himself, where we are left with a surprisingly introspective and poignant thought: “Memories don’t live like people do.” This reflection, delivered over a jarring and unconventional beat, encapsulates the album’s experimental and thought-provoking nature.
36. “Hey Mama”
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“Hey Mama” began as a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to Kanye’s mother, Donda West, on his Late Registration album. However, the song transcended its original meaning and became a timeless tearjerker after Kanye’s emotionally charged performance at the 2008 Grammy Awards, shortly after Donda’s passing. Poignant and overwhelmingly powerful, that Grammy rendition is impossible to watch without feeling a profound sense of emotion and connection to Kanye’s grief and love for his mother.
35. “Everything I Am”
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“Everything I Am” is a collaboration with the legendary DJ Premier, resulting in a motivational masterpiece and one of Kanye’s most underrated tracks from his Graduation album. The combination of twinkling piano melodies, Premier’s signature scratching, and Kanye’s brilliantly introspective lyrics creates pure gold. Distinctly Chicago in its sound and sensibility, “Everything I Am” is a testament to the power of collaboration and self-reflection in music.
34. “Gorgeous”
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“Gorgeous” masterfully juxtaposes beautiful, soulful production with a scathing critique of racial injustice in America. The song unflinchingly depicts the ugliness of a nation that continues to marginalize minority rights, particularly poignant considering the political climate at the time of its release. The standout bar, “What’s a black Beatle anyway, a f***ing roach?” delivered with Malcolm X-like intensity, is a stroke of lyrical genius and a powerful statement on race and identity.
33. “On Sight”
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“On Sight” serves as the jarring and audacious opening track to Kanye’s seventh studio album, Yeezus. It’s a sonic assault, an immediate plunge into the abrasive and experimental world of the album. Daft Punk’s signature metallic synths and blown-out drums create a chaotic yet compelling backdrop for a fired-up and confrontational Kanye. Though concise at under three minutes, “On Sight” embodies Kanye’s relentless pursuit of innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of his own music and contemporary music as a whole.
32. “Good Morning”
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“Good Morning” is both the perfect opening track for Graduation and the ultimate song to kickstart your day. Disarmingly simple yet incredibly potent, its uplifting message resonates universally. Whether you’re facing a major life transition like graduation or simply navigating a rough patch, “Good Morning” is a sonic pick-me-up, a healing balm for any kind of emotional wound. Its infectious energy and positive message make it a timeless feel-good anthem.
31. “Wash Us in the Blood”
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Leading up to DONDA, rumors swirled about Kanye’s 10th studio album, with one particularly intriguing suggestion that it would be a sonic fusion of Yeezus and Jesus is King. Many were skeptical, but “Wash Us in the Blood” delivered exactly that. This track is aggressive and stripped-down, yet fundamentally centered around Kanye’s newfound faith. It strikes a balance, feeling both powerful and sincere. Many fans wished the entirety of Jesus is King had captured this raw and intense energy.
30. “True Love”
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“True Love” is a collaboration that brings together Kanye and the late XXXTENTACION. While XXXTENTACION’s legacy is complex and marred by serious allegations, his musical talent and ability to create genre-bending music cannot be ignored. Towards the end of his life, he also publicly expressed a commitment to personal growth. Focusing on the music, “True Love” showcases one of XXXTENTACION’s most powerful and emotionally resonant hooks. Paired with Kanye’s equally reflective lyrics on his divorce from Kim Kardashian, the track becomes a poignant and compelling breakup anthem, exploring themes of love, loss, and reflection.
29. “Off the Grid”
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The chaotic rollout of the DONDA album tempered expectations for some, but “Off the Grid” was a track that immediately silenced any doubts. It’s a phenomenal song that highlights one of Kanye’s greatest strengths: his ability to elevate his collaborators while simultaneously asserting his own artistic presence within current musical trends. Fivio Foreign delivers some of the most memorable bars on the entire album, and Kanye steps up to prove he can still go toe-to-toe with any artist in the game, showcasing his enduring relevance and skill.
28. “Praise God”
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While its virality on TikTok might feel like it trivializes the song for some, “Praise God” was undeniably a fan favorite from DONDA. The minimalist production, featuring heavy drums and distant, pulsing church strings, creates a captivating sonic landscape. Kanye and Travis Scott’s chemistry drives the first half of the track, while Baby Keem contributes a verse in his signature baby voice style. Despite any external trends, “Praise God” simply works as a powerful and well-crafted song.
27. “Mercy”
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“Mercy” features what is arguably the darkest sample to dominate car radios in the summer of 2012. This G.O.O.D. Music collaboration is a standout within Kanye’s catalog. The track is a masterclass in show-and-tell, where the often absurdist lyrics from Big Sean, Pusha T, and 2 Chainz are shrouded in a cryptically foreboding production. The darkness only breaks when Kanye himself enters, descending like a radiant figure as a heavenly chorus announces his arrival, portraying him as a merciful lord amidst suffering.
26. “Famous”
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“Famous” is infamous for its controversial lyrics and the media storm it ignited. But beyond the controversy, it’s a production marvel. The Sister Nancy sample is one of Kanye’s most brilliant chops in recent years, creating an instantly recognizable and infectious beat. Rihanna’s vocal contributions perfectly embody the essence of fame itself, while Kanye is at his most confidently boastful, delivering memorable lines over a truly bountiful beat.
25. “Love Lockdown”
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“Love Lockdown” is the emotional core of 808s & Heartbreak. It’s the bleeding heart of an album that is itself a portrait of heartbreak. The minimalist beat remains constant throughout the track, a steady pulse even amidst forceful piano chords, hand claps, drums, and Kanye’s revolutionary use of Autotune. Looking back, “Love Lockdown” not only stands as one of the best Kanye songs but also highlights his visionary approach to music, years before Autotune became a dominant force in the industry. The song ends as it began, with that persistent beat, a stark reminder of the devastation lying beneath the surface.
24. “Blame Game”
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Tracks like “Blame Game” reaffirm the artistic stratosphere Kanye occupied during the My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy era. The song expertly juggles his complex love-hate relationship with fame and romantic partners. It also features one of the most iconic skits in hip-hop history, courtesy of Chris Rock. “Blame Game” is a testament to Kanye’s lyrical depth, production genius, and ability to blend humor and introspection seamlessly.
23. “Bound 2”
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The music video for “Bound 2” is arguably one of the most polarizing of all time, yet the song itself is undeniably canonical Kanye. Set against hyperreal pastoral landscapes, Kanye and Kim Kardashian ride a motorcycle, distorting classic Americana tropes into a uniquely Kanye-esque utopian vision. Unlike much of Yeezus, “Bound 2” sees Kanye return to his sampling roots, utilizing soaring gospel vocals. However, he ingeniously juxtaposes these old-school vibes with a blown-out bass line in the chorus, creating a track that is both familiar and strikingly modern.
22. “Good Life”
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“Good Life” captures Kanye at his most purely joyful. Alongside an effervescent and on-form T-Pain, it remains one of Kanye’s most uplifting and celebratory songs. T-Pain’s shoutout to his grandmother adds another layer of heartwarming sincerity to this feel-good anthem. “Good Life” is simply musical sunshine, radiating positivity and infectious energy.
21. “All of the Lights”
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“All of the Lights” is another triumphant banger from the pantheon of best Kanye West songs. The sheer scale of the track is breathtaking: a full orchestral arrangement, thunderous drums, and a superstar cast of vocalists. The-Dream penned the instantly memorable hook, and Rihanna, Fergie, Alicia Keys, La Roux, and even Elton John lend their voices to create a truly collaborative and epic sonic experience.
20. “Diamonds From Sierra Leone”
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Kanye is renowned for his ability to unearth obscure samples, making “Diamonds From Sierra Leone” somewhat of an anomaly. He boldly samples a theme song from one of cinema’s most successful franchises – James Bond. The big band instrumentation from John Barry’s score seamlessly blends with film composer Jon Brion’s work on Late Registration. This unlikely pairing works brilliantly, providing a grand and cinematic backdrop for Kanye’s most explicitly activist lyrics to date, addressing issues of conflict diamonds and social injustice.
19. “Ultralight Beam”
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Kanye described The Life of Pablo as his ‘gospel album,’ but that description most accurately applies to “Ultralight Beam.” It is one of the most experimental and haunting tracks he has ever created. Vast silences punctuate the song, giving way to a hazy synth warble that resembles an underwater organ. Despite being the album’s opening track, Kanye’s presence is surprisingly minimal. “Ultralight Beam” truly belongs to the awe-inspiring gospel vocals of legends like Kirk Franklin and Chance the Rapper’s career-defining verse. It’s a sonic landscape of reverence and inspiration, simultaneously honoring musical heritage and celebrating the next generation of artists.
18. “All Falls Down”
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“All Falls Down” is a track that many fans argue deserves a spot in the top 10. The unforgettable guitar riff, the iconic music video featuring Kanye going through an X-ray machine – it’s all instantly recognizable. Kanye delves into themes of materialism, societal flaws, and his own insecurities, all in 2004, setting a new benchmark for lyrical depth and introspective hip-hop. Built upon a Lauryn Hill sample (cleared only if she wasn’t singing), Kanye ultimately enlisted Syleena Johnson, who was conveniently in the studio next door, to provide the vocals. “All Falls Down” is a cornerstone of Kanye’s early work and ironically foreshadowed his ascent to becoming one of the greatest artists of all time.
17. “New Slaves”
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For many, the initial introduction to Yeezus was through clandestine projections of Kanye’s face on buildings worldwide, showcasing “New Slaves.” The ghoulish, billboard-sized visage of Kanye, rasping the song’s lyrics with burning intensity, was unforgettable. Even years later, listening to “New Slaves” evokes that same powerful imagery, channeling a righteous anger born from centuries of oppression. The song’s message, potent from the outset, has only become more prophetic with time, addressing themes of consumerism and modern-day slavery with unflinching honesty.
16. “Monster”
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“Monster” is a track that acknowledges Kanye’s controversial public persona while simultaneously aiming for mainstream success. It expertly balances Kanye’s increasingly avant-garde production style with his inherent pop sensibilities. Bon Iver provides the haunting intro and outro, JAY-Z and Rick Ross contribute strong verses, but it’s Nicki Minaj who steals the show with what many consider one of the greatest guest verses in hip-hop history, a truly iconic moment in a song packed with star power.
15. “Black Skinhead”
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Imagine an alternate reality where Kanye fronts a punk rock band. “Black Skinhead” would be their anthem. This high-octane, cathartic track is pure energy, the song Kanye famously smashes guitars to during live performances. Amidst the raw intensity, Kanye casually drops anti-racist and anti-establishment sentiments, all while solidifying his status as a rap god, unafraid to experiment and push musical boundaries.
14. “Slow Jamz”
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“Slow Jamz” is pure nostalgia, a song that instantly transports you back to halcyon days whenever it plays. The song title itself practically coined a genre. A staple on countless “sex and party starter” playlists, it evokes a rush of emotions and memories. From the timeless Michael Jackson reference to Twista’s mesmerizingly rapid flow, taking over from Kanye, “Slow Jamz” is an absolute classic in every sense of the word, a perfect blend of smooth R&B and hip-hop energy.
13. “POWER”
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Kanye consciously avoided making radio-friendly tracks on My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, but “POWER” is the closest thing on the album to a traditional pop song structure. Even then, it’s a beast of its own kind. With a beat that feels like it could shake the earth, a sample of infinitely melismatic war chants, and a relentless barrage of quotable one-liners (“At the end of the day/ God damn it I’m killing this shit”), “POWER” is Kanye firing on all cylinders. It’s the most maximalist effort on an album defined by maximalism, a sonic explosion that leaves you breathless and understanding why he ends the song by metaphorically jumping out the window.
12. “Touch the Sky”
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“Touch the Sky” is another early Kanye classic, sampling Curtis Mayfield’s uplifting “Move On Up.” The slowed-down horns perfectly complement DJ Blaze’s massive drums, creating a sound that is both soulful and powerful. Kanye’s effortless transitions between smooth flows and non-Autotuned vocals solidify this track as one of his best. The iconic music video, featuring Pamela Anderson and Evel Knievel vibes, foreshadowed Kanye’s own out-of-this-world trajectory as a musician and pop culture icon in the years that followed.
11. “Niggas in Paris”
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Kanye West and JAY-Z performed “Niggas in Paris” eleven times consecutively during their tour stop in Paris. Does anything more need to be said about its greatness? This Watch the Throne anthem is pure energy, a stadium-shaking, crowd-pleasing masterpiece that showcases the unparalleled chemistry between two titans of hip-hop.
10. “Can’t Tell Me Nothing”
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“Can’t Tell Me Nothing” is the ultimate anthem of defiant self-confidence. For many, it’s a nostalgic track deeply tied to specific moments in their lives. It’s the perfect soundtrack for embracing your own path, regardless of external expectations or judgments. The raw energy and unapologetic attitude of “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” resonate deeply, making it a timeless expression of independence and self-belief.
9. “Stronger”
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“Stronger” embodies peak “shutter shades / Louis Vuitton Don” era Kanye. Confident enough to sample Daft Punk (and later hire them for a Grammy performance), Kanye not only makes it work, he elevates it to another level. The track was meticulously mixed countless times, with Timbaland eventually enlisted to redo the drums. The result is a pop masterpiece. “Stronger” cemented Kanye’s place in the mainstream consciousness and remains one of his most recognizable and impactful songs from his early career.
8. “Heartless”
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“Heartless” marks a stark departure from the maximalism and optimism of Kanye’s previous albums. Stripped down to a Roland-808 drum machine and Autotuned melodies, the song is dramatic, cold, and detached. In contrast to the warm samples and old-school hip-hop sounds of his earlier work, “Heartless” reveals a different side of Kanye, reminding us that even at the height of his success, he experiences the isolating depths of loneliness and heartbreak. But from that vulnerability, he creates something undeniably beautiful and groundbreaking.
7. “Devil in a New Dress”
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“Devil in a New Dress” boasts a beat that is simply phenomenal. Perhaps the standout track from My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, it perfectly captures Kanye’s unique rapping style. From the scintillating opening lines, “Put your hands to the constellations/ The way you look should be a sin, you my sensation,” to the wry humor of “That’s Dior Homme, not Dior Homie,” it’s Kanye at his most acerbic and captivating. Then Rick Ross arrives to deliver what many consider his greatest guest verse of all time, capping off a track that consistently delivers goosebumps.
6. “Through the Wire”
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“Every superhero needs their origin story,” and “Through the Wire” is Kanye’s. The story of him recording his verses with his jaw wired shut after a near-fatal car accident is legendary and rightfully so. But even without the backstory, “Through the Wire” stands as a testament to Kanye’s talent and resilience. It’s a prime example of his early, pitch-shifted, sample-driven production, a masterful interpolation of the funk and soul records he grew up listening to, and a powerful introduction to a groundbreaking artist.
5. “Gold Digger”
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“Gold Digger” was one of Kanye’s first major mainstream hits, earning praise from critics like Spike Lee and becoming a crossover sensation. An emblematic early Kanye track from his sophomore album, it showcases his innate musical knowledge, repurposing a Ray Charles classic with Jamie Foxx and adding a surprise synth coda nodding to Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition.” “Gold Digger” is a deliriously inventive track, upending decades of pop music into one lean, mean, unstoppable hit machine. Bonus points for the infectious percussion and Kanye’s laugh-out-loud lyrics, especially the unforgettable chant, “WE WANT PRE-NUP, YEAH!”
4. “Blood on the Leaves”
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Yeezus‘ influence on hip-hop and electronic music is undeniable. Immediately hailed as a classic upon release, “Blood on the Leaves” is a towering achievement within an album full of sonic innovation. “Instant classic” feels like an understatement for this track, a pinnacle of anguish and raw emotion. Above the mercilessly crushing beats, the haunting Nina Simone sample, and the soaring Autotune, it’s the raw, emotional honesty that resonates most powerfully. “Remember when we were so young, when I would hold you,” Kanye laments, plumbing the depths of his soul and presenting it with unflinching vulnerability. As a lament, “Blood on the Leaves” is nothing short of exquisite.
3. “Jesus Walks”
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“Jesus Walks” is an anthemic masterpiece, both militarily driven in its tone and profoundly relevant in its message. Kanye lays down the gauntlet immediately: “We at war with terrorism, racism and most of all, we at war with ourselves.” It’s a powerful statement that resonates deeply even today. “Jesus Walks” is arguably Kanye’s most revered track, the song that arguably launched the “cult of Kanye West.” Soul-stirring, invigorating, and fervor-filled, it’s Kanye at his most transcendent, foreshadowing his later explorations of faith and his own self-proclaimed Yeezus persona. “Jesus Walks” is a requiem for the “old Kanye,” who would soon become recognized as rap’s foremost iconoclast.
2. “Flashing Lights”
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“Flashing Lights,” recorded in 2007, encapsulates Kanye’s journey into the monolithic figure he is today in style, music, and popular culture. The title itself foreshadows the intense media attention and superstardom he has experienced. “Flashing Lights” embodies all the essential elements of a classic Kanye song: stirring strings, archetypal bars about luxury and desire, and an unforgettable hook. Accompanied by an iconic Spike Jonze-directed music video, it marked Kanye flexing his creative muscles in ways that would keep him at the forefront of cultural conversation. He has become an SEO goldmine for publications, and articles like this one exist because of the visionary brilliance of tracks like “Flashing Lights.”
1. “Runaway”
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From a discography spanning decades, countless tracks, and a vast array of musical styles, “Runaway” stands alone as our unanimous choice for the best Kanye West song. Why? Consider the context: “Runaway” was the definitive statement on an album that was a career-defining moment, arriving in the aftermath of public backlash. In My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, an album saturated with self-reflection and apology, “Runaway” is the towering peak. It’s a shrieking wail from the depths of Kanye’s soul, acknowledging the consequences of his own hubris.
We accept his apology, because “Runaway” is nothing short of nine minutes of sheer perfection. Kanye’s experimentation with Autotune reaches its zenith in the song’s extended coda, a haunting duet with a cello that consumes half the track’s runtime. The melody is instantly recognizable yet profoundly simple, gently introduced by opening piano keys. Never before, and arguably never since, has Kanye’s work been so ravishingly beautiful and emotionally resonant.
If this wasn’t enough for you, check out our ranking of the 30 best Drake songs right here.
