Critic's Choice: XXXTentacion's 10 Best Tracks
XXXTentacion, a name synonymous with controversial genius, left behind a complex and deeply impactful musical legacy. His raw emotionality, experimental soundscapes, and unflinching vulnerability resonated with millions, solidifying his place as a pivotal figure in modern music. While ranking his vast discography is inherently subjective, this list attempts to highlight ten tracks that showcase his artistic range and enduring power. This isn't just a list; it's a journey through the mind of a troubled artist, exploring his pain, passion, and ultimately, his artistry.
1. SAD!
This isn't just a song; it's a phenomenon. SAD! perfectly encapsulates XXXTentacion's signature blend of melancholic melodies and aggressive beats. Its raw emotionality connected with listeners on a profound level, catapulting it to global success and cementing its place as one of his most iconic tracks. The vulnerability in his voice, the haunting melody, and the surprisingly catchy beat all contribute to its lasting impact. Its success demonstrates his ability to connect with a massive audience while still maintaining his unique artistic voice.
2. Jocelyn Flores
A heartbreaking tribute to his friend, Jocelyn Flores, is characterized by its poignant lyrics and emotionally resonant melody. The song's minimalist production allows XXXTentacion's vocals to take center stage, showcasing his vocal range and emotional depth. The song explores themes of loss, grief, and the complexities of friendship, resonating deeply with listeners who have experienced similar losses. The raw honesty in his lyrics transcends the typical boundaries of genre and transcends into a personal experience.
3. Look at Me!
This track marked a turning point in XXXTentacion's career, catapulting him into the mainstream. Look at Me! showcases his aggressive delivery and distinctive style, blending elements of trap, hip-hop, and emo. Its infectious beat and unforgettable hook made it an instant hit, demonstrating his ability to create both commercially successful and artistically compelling music. The song's raw energy is infectious and its message resonates with those who have experienced struggle and rejection.
4. Changes
Changes offers a more reflective side of XXXTentacion. This emotional ballad demonstrates his incredible vocal range and songwriting prowess. The song's melancholic melody and introspective lyrics explore themes of self-reflection, change, and hope. This softer side showcased his versatility as an artist and demonstrated his ability to connect with audiences on a deeper emotional level.
5. Moonlight
The ethereal soundscapes of Moonlight showcase a different facet of XXXTentacion’s artistry. This track highlights his experimental side, moving beyond the typical confines of hip-hop and delving into atmospheric sounds and melancholic melodies. The song's atmospheric production and emotive vocals create a captivating soundscape that transports listeners to another world.
6. Revenge
Revenge, featuring the late Juice WRLD, displays a potent collaboration between two titans of emo-rap. The song’s hard-hitting production and deeply personal lyrics create a powerful listening experience. This blend of raw talent and dark themes underscores his appeal to the emo-rap generation.
7. Hope
A surprisingly uplifting track, Hope, demonstrates XXXTentacion's ability to explore themes of optimism and perseverance amidst the darkness. The song's melodic hook and hopeful lyrics offer a glimmer of light in his often somber discography. This shows the range of his emotional palette, showcasing his ability to explore positivity alongside the prevalent themes of sadness and grief.
8. King of the Dead
The ominous and foreboding sounds of King of the Dead demonstrate his ability to craft dark and atmospheric soundscapes. The production is heavy and dramatic, perfectly complementing the song's brooding lyrics and aggressive delivery. This track perfectly encapsulates his ability to create emotionally charged and sonically rich experiences for his listeners.
9. Orlando
A deeply personal track reflecting on his hometown of Orlando, Orlando shows a softer side while maintaining emotional intensity. This introspective piece reflects his connection to his roots and delves into his personal experiences.
10. Arms Around You (with Lil Pump, Maluma & Swae Lee)
While a collaboration, Arms Around You demonstrates XXXTentacion's ability to seamlessly integrate his style into a diverse range of collaborations. The upbeat rhythm contrasts with his melancholic vocals, highlighting his versatility.
This list, while subjective, aims to offer a glimpse into the complex musical landscape of XXXTentacion's work. His legacy extends far beyond the controversies surrounding him, and his music continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, proving his lasting impact on the music industry. Exploring his wider discography is highly recommended to fully appreciate the depth and breadth of his artistry.
