Few artists in hip-hop have achieved the perfect balance of charisma, humor, and raw skill that Redman brings to the table. With a career spanning over three decades, Redman stands as one of the most respected and influential figures in the genre, celebrated for his unique approach to music and his enduring impact on hip-hop culture.
Here are 10 hit tracks that tell the story of one of rap’s most illustrious careers.
“Time 4 Sum Aksion” (1992)
The explosive opener from his studio debut studio album, Time 4 Sum Aksion would set the tone for the Redman that fans would come to love. His chaotic energy and brash delivery work hand in hand over the Cypress Hills sampled beat to create a funky instant party starter.
“Tonight’s Da Night” (1992)
Like few other emcees in his generation, Red wasn’t afraid to take creative risks for the sake of good music. On Tonight’s Da Night, he briefly exhibits a debonair flow and reveals his ‘groovy’ side before returning to the in-your-face, New Jersey demeanor that defined his early career.
“How High” (1995)
Funk Doctor Spock and Johnny Blaze’s first collaboration was a pivotal move for the success of both artists’ careers. Be that as it may, it was merely the first iteration of a friendship that would continue to grow and produce cultural classics – all thanks to a shared interest in lighting up and laying back.
“I’ll Bee Dat!” (1998)
If nothing else, Redman was a comedian. When he wasn’t laying down funky ballads or showing up other emcees, the rapper was serving up comedic punchlines to manufacture some of the wildest storytelling songs in hip hop. Then again, who among us hasn’t caused dogs to bark after shaking their stankin’ ass in the party?
“Da Rockwilder” (1999)
Another installment in the superiority of Method Man and Redman as a duo, Da Rockwilder is a club classic that had no chorus (and let’s face it, that in itself speaks volumes). Still, the track feels too familiar to pair’s main base as they set each other up for a barrage of bars that feels too similar to a mid-session rap battle.
“Can’t Wait” (1994)
Can’t Wait is a relatively underrated tape in Reggie Noble’s discography, but inquiring minds will point out the song’s significance in hip-hop history. It is the first of four Redman songs to reach the Billboard Hot 100 chart. As if that weren’t enough, the track’s production served as inspiration behind producer Mike City’s hit singles – “I Wish” by Carl Thomas and “Full Moon” by Brandy.
“Whateva Man” (1996)
The second track on Muddy Waters couldn’t be more encapsulating of Redman’s persona. He taps into his signature laid-back style while gliding over the funky Erick Sermon produced beat, delivering some top-notch comedic timing along the journey.
“Let’s Get Dirty (I Can’t Get in da Club)” (2001)
The lead single from the 2001 studio album Malpratice is just as grimy as the New Jersey streets that reared Redman. The menacing lyricism would, ideally, elicit fear in anyone listening if not for that classic groovy production that makes the track an instant club classic.
“Blow Your Mind” (1992)
The lead single off Redman’s debut album is an electrifying introduction to one of hip-hop’s most charismatic and innovative emcees. A perfect blend of funk-infused production, witty lyricism, and infectious energy, the track captures everything that makes Redman a standout artist in the genre.
“Sooperman Luva” (series)
Redman was always one to take creative risks and the Sooperman Lover series is just another example of why that makes him a legend in the hip hop world. His technical prowess for storytelling is only enhanced by the continuously evolving production. Of course, it wouldn’t be a real Redman story without some crude humor, now, would it?
