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Contrary to popular belief, hip-hop can be played around children. Most parents may think that modern-day hip-hop just promotes drug use and violence but there is a multitude of new hip-hop artists that make songs that inspire and speak to young people about family and love, working hard to achieve their dreams, and addressing social issues.
I've compiled a list of songs that parents, devoted aunties and uncles and even older siblings can play around the young ones without worrying about them picking up strong language or hearing about popping xans and making it rain in the clur.
Also read: 22 great old-skool hip-hop tracks you can play around little ears: Part 1
Popular culture: 5 ways you can direct its influence on your kids
Here is my list of modern hip-hop songs to play around your kids:
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1. Patience - Ray Blk
The South London singer/rapper sings about working hard to be successful. "They're running just to get in first place. I'm walking going at my own pace." She urges her listeners to not compare their progress with others', if they keep their heads down and work hard, they'll also make it on the "A-list".
2. Black Girl Magik - Sampa the Great
This song celebrates being a black girl. Sampa addresses the injustices that black women face and stands up proudly to say that she's got magic and that every black womxn is a beautiful and magical being that keeps getting stronger and more powerful: "It’s so strong it’s like a magnet. You would think that God is here."
Also read: Exposing your baby to music really can produce a genius
3. The Glow - Ivy Sole
Ivy is giving herself a pep talk in this song. She mentions how college wasn't cheap so she has to succeed because her mother is rooting for her. All she needs to do is focus on her work and she will get what she deserves. It's a good song to keep your children motivated, especially when they're faced with challenges. All they have to remember is Ivy saying, "The time is now so all my doubts and fears they gotta rest in peace."
4. Anthem - Jay Prince
It's hard not to dance along to this song. Jay Prince's intention is to turn this song into an anthem so he can make his dreams come true. All he wants to do is provide for his mother and make people feel good through music. So put your hands up! The kids will definitely sing along to this one.
Also read: How music-inspired free play can nurture creative young minds
5. Sunday Candy - Donnie Trumpet and the Social Experiment
In my opinion, this is the ultimate grandma anthem! Chance the Rapper is nostalgic about his church-going grandmother and 'gasses her up'. From the way she disciplined him and his brother, the sweets she always had on her and the big hats she wore to church, he believes his grandmother is the best. Accompanied by Jamila Woods and a choir, you may want to pick up the phone so the kids can talk to grandma and flashback to the good times you had with yours. This song definitely gives you a greater appreciation for grandparents.
6. Love Lockdown - Kanye West
Yes, you read right, Mr West made it onto the list. Not all of his songs reference his sexual life with his wife Kim Kardashian. Love Lockdown has an amazing beat that will have you jumping around and waving your arms around (at least that's what I do when I listen to it with my baby sister). This is a break-up song about miscommunication and a love that has gone wrong. The girl failed to reveal her true feelings, keeping her 'love locked down' and now she's lost him. The sound of the drums will get stuck in your head and the only way to get rid of them is to play it over and over again.
7. My Favorite Part - Mac Miller ft. Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande first gained popularity on the Nickelodeon show Victorious. Since then, she's made a big name for herself in the music industry. This sweet love song sung by her and her boyfriend is about how he finds her so beautiful and yet she doesn't know. He may not know what the future holds for them, but they'll just enjoy the moment and try not to rush anything.
Also read: Top music education apps to help your kid to tune in
8. Big Fish - Vince Staples
Vince raps about his struggles growing up in Ramona Park, California. He was "late night ballin'" but it was all worth it since he is a big fish now. He grew up in an area that was full of violence and was always on the alert for any gun shots ("the click, clack, clap or the boopm, bop, bam") when he stood at the bus stop as a young boy. This song is so catchy, you'll want to dance and once you've mastered the lyrics, you'll feel like the coolest parent alive.
9. Water Baby - Tom Misch ft. Loyle Carner
The two Londoners came together to make a song about leaving all your worries behind and going with the flow. Just take your time, don't worry about what people think of you and don't sweat the small stuff. These are words we constantly need to remember during challenging times. With Tom's soothing soulful voice and Ben's (Loyle) calm flow, it's a good song to listen to in the morning when you're dropping the kids off at school.
10. Get 'Em Up - Anderson .Paak
Anderson has this amazing ability to put a smile on his listener's face. He makes songs that are lyrically smart and still perfect to dance to. Get 'Em Up is no different. The song is about a confusing relationship that's now "all up in the air", but what really stands out is the fast-paced instruments in the song. It's great for Friday afternoon pick-ups so you and your kids can celebrate the weekend ahead.
Also read: This song makes baby happy!
If you're an Apple Music user, you can play the playlist below.
Have you made any changes to the music you used to listen to now that you're a parent? Let us know at chatback@parent24.com and we may publish your comments.
Read more:
- 22 great hip-hop tracks you can play around your kids
- Watch what happens when this little girl sings to her brother who has Down syndrome
- 'Shut that music off!'
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