The 14 Best Jay-Z Songs of All Time

Gritty street classics, chart-conquering anthems and late-career statements that trace the rise of a hip-hop empire. Which one reigns?

1

Izzo (H.O.V.A.)

Kanye West-produced Jackson 5-sampling hit that announced a new era for both artists.

1000pts

2

99 Problems

Rick Rubin-produced rock-rap anthem and one of the most recognizable songs in hip-hop.

973pts

3

Song Cry

Emotional Blueprint ballad praised as one of his most heartfelt records.

826pts

4

Takeover

Ferocious diss track from The Blueprint that defined a legendary rap rivalry.

809pts

5

Holy Grail

Magna Carta Holy Grail single featuring Justin Timberlake.

708pts

6

The Story of O.J.

Acclaimed 4:44 single tackling race and wealth, widely praised as late-career brilliance.

707pts

7

Big Pimpin'

Lavish UGK collaboration with a Timbaland beat that became a summer anthem.

643pts

8

Public Service Announcement

Swaggering Black Album interlude with one of his most quoted opening lines.

643pts

9

Otis

Soul-sampling Watch the Throne romp with Kanye West built on Otis Redding.

566pts

10

Run This Town

Grammy-winning powerhouse with Rihanna and Kanye West.

566pts

11

Dead Presidents II

Classic Reasonable Doubt cut frequently named among his very best by fans.

566pts

12

Empire State of Mind

His chart-topping ode to New York featuring Alicia Keys, his first No. 1 as a lead artist.

471pts

13

Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)

Breakthrough hit built on an Annie show tune sample that turned Jay-Z into a superstar.

471pts

14

03 Bonnie & Clyde

Hit duet with Beyonce that launched one of music's most famous partnerships.

471pts