As a politically conscious 20 something, very soon to be 30 something, Public Enemy shaped my early political philosophy.  Through their socially charged lyrics I learned of “the struggle”, what the “revolution” was and why the hell it wouldn’t be televised.  PE represented the educational side of hip hop for me and made me really conscious of prevailing messages in rhymes.  For the first time, Rap lyrics were used as an instrument of change and no song ever represented that more than the group’s 1989 black power anthem “Fight the Power.”

To this day that record is and was played at every Hip Hop political rally BUT is it Hip Hop’s greatest song ever?!  Hellllll No!  In one of VH1’s now signature countdown show’s they’re identifying what they believe to be the top 100 Hip Hop records ever. Here’s how the top 5 shaped up.

1. Public Enemy: “Fight The Power”
2. Sugar Hill Gang: “Rapper’s Delight”
3. Dr. Dre: “Nuthin but a ‘G’ Thang”
4. Run-D.M.C.: “Walk This Way” feat. Aerosmith
5. Grandmaster Flash & the Furious Five: “The Message“

One thing I will say is that I’m elated that P.E. and the classic era of Hip Hop was recognized but I can’t co-sign for their top pick.   Like I said its a great record but not worthy of the best and to be quite honest Its virtually impossible to crown a greatest record, there’s so many to pick from and so many different criteria in which to base the selection.  In terms of importance to the culture, you’d definately have to consider “Walk This Way” or “Straight Outta Compton” as I mentioned the other day.  From a staying power stance you could argue a record like “Scenario” is should be the top pick.

So Highbrid Nation…what do you think? The floor is open.  What is your top Hip Hop Song Ever?