HYPETRAK Top 10 Songs of 2014

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After presenting our community’s top full-length releases in 2014, we now turn to this year’s highest rated songs. The past 12 months brought us a diverse palette with catchy sounds but also thought-provoking lyrics and narrative raps, that documented the spirit of this generation. Below, you can go through our editorial team’s selection of songs that shaped the musical landscape and also see our reader’s Top 5 choices that came out in our latest poll.

Better In Tune…

Jay Electronica

Another year passes and still, no signs of a Jay Electronica album. At this point, fans can’t do much but be patient with the whom many consider the “hip-hop savior,” however one thing we can expect as fans, is the annual Jay Electronica single that seemingly appears out of thin air and puts the hip-hop game on freeze. In 2014, that single was “Better In Tune With The Infinite.” It provided the expected dose of spiritual depth as it opens with spoken word samples from Nation of Islam leader Elijah Muhammad and The Wizard of Oz while LaTonya Givens assisted Jay with soulful backdrop over a clever sample of Ryuichi Sakamoto’s “Bibo No Aozora.” Jay Electronica was certainly less reclusive towards the end of 2014 the rapper made a surprise appearance at the AAHH! Festival alongside Kanye West and Common, and who can forget his impressive feature on Vince Staples and Common’s remix of “Kingdom,” and lastly, the nine-city joint tour with Common that capped off his year. It’s all speculation at this point, but this could perhaps be a build up for something in 2015.

Kendrick Lamar

Having only entered the industry for a few years, Kendrick is already regarded by many as a legend. In “i,” the rapper illustrates that it was his perseverance and optimistic mentality that aided him through various trails and tribulations, and demonstrates to listeners the importance of loving oneself in an non-narcissistic way.

Recognize

PARTYNEXTDOOR & Drake

The Toronto newcomer had proved to be promising with a strong debut last year, but the club favorite “Recognize” was the standout track truly set him apart. Drake’s feature only added to the track’s vainglorious yet mesmeric essence.

Tuesday (Remix)

ILOVEMAKKONEN & Drake

Musicians, as well as other people who engage in multiple hustles instead of a standard nine-to-five, may struggle with having work-occupied weekends. ILOVEMAKKONEN delivered the perfect anthem for this situation, which many have found to be relatable.

Test & Recognise

Seekae

Sydney’s growing Future Classics imprint found its unofficial anthem in Seekea’s infectious “Test & Recognise,” which has easily become one of the most remixed songs of the year. Bitter, belligerent and confessional.

Try Me

Dej Loaf

With prominent co-signs from the likes of Drake and Wiz Khalifa and laced with glistening production or her sedated flow—, Dej Loaf’s ubiquotous “Try Me” has initiated the next chapter of Detroit’s vibrant rap scene.

Faded

ZHU

Not much is known about this electronic musician, as he prefers to remain anonymous. We do, however, know for certain that his musicality is nothing short of excellent; this simple yet hypnotically addicting track demonstrates just that.

I Can’t Help Myself

Brodinsky & SD

Brodinski’s musical range has proven to be much more vast with elements of techno, hip-hop and bass-heavy house which is strikingly noticeable in his production style on “I Can’t Help Myself” featuring GBE’s own SD, which became a massive cut in the club circuit.

Say My Name

Odesza featuring Zyra

Chopping background vocals might have been one of the most oversaturated production quirks from these past few years. Odesza, however, skillfully demonstrates that proper utilization will not only prevent the song from sounding cliché, but that the outcome can turn out remarkably well.

Skyfall

Travi$ Scott & Young Thug

Days Before Rodeo placed in our best albums list this year, and Skyfall is undeniably one of the standout tracks of the tape. The hypnotic chanting and the intertwining of melodic verses made this track the inauguration of the foolproof sonic relationship between the two influential artists.

Notable Mentions