The Best Rhythm and Blues Hip Hop Songs of 2004

A look at the best Rhythm and Blues Hip Hop songs of 2004.

Outkast- Hey Ya

“Hey Ya!” is a song written and produced by André 3000 for his 2003 album The Love Below, released as the lead single from The Love Below soundtrack album on September 9, 2003. The song’s music video features a live performance by a band mimicking Outkast’s own showmanship, interspersed with cinematic special effects illustrating the lyrics.

The single topped the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and the UK Singles Chart, among others. It won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group and was nominated for Record of the Year. “Hey Ya!” was one of the most popular songs of 2004, peaking at number one in many countries around the world.

Nelly- My Place

Nelly’s “My Place” was one of the best rhythm and blues hip hop songs of 2004. The song features Nelly rapping about a number of topics including his hometown of St. Louis, his successful career, and his love for women. The song’s catchy hook and beat make it an instant classic, and Nelly’s lyrical prowess is on full display.

Usher- Yeah

“Yeah” is a song recorded by American singer Usher, featuring American rapper Lil Jon and American producer Ludacris. It was released on January 27, 2004, as the lead single from Usher’s fourth studio album, Confessions (2004). The song was written by Lil Jon, Usher, and Ludacris, with the production being handled by the former. Yeah peaked at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 and in New Zealand, as well as reaching the top ten in many other countries.

Alicia Keys- If I Ain’t Got You

Alicia Keys’ If I Ain’t Got You is one of the best rhythm and blues hip hop songs of 2004. The song is about Keys’ dedication to her husband, swain, and how she would still love him even if he was penniless. The beat is fresh and soulful, and Keys’ voice is perfect for the track.

Jamie Foxx- Slow Jamz

“Slow Jamz” is a single by American rapper Twista, featuring American R&B singer Jamie Foxx and produced by Kanye West. It was released in late 2003 as the lead single from his album Kamikaze and reached number one on both the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts in early 2004. The Kanye West produced song is a smooth hip-hop track with a classic R&B feel to it, making for a radio friendly, crossover hit. The song features young singer Jamie Foxx singing the chorus which adds to the overall old school vibe of the track. “Slow Jamz” helped to launch both Twista’s and Foxx’s careers into mainstream success.

Twista- Overnight Celebrity

off of Trevor’s album Kamikaze, “Overnight Celebrity” was produced by Kanye West. The beat is an all-time great, and Twista’s insane machine-gun flow is on full display. It’s one of the few times where you can hear all of the words he’s saying despite how fast he’s going. The hook is catchy as hell, and the song blew up when it was released, even getting remixed by Twista himself with some help from Beyoncé.

Snoop Dogg- Drop It Like It’s Hot

“Drop It Like It’s Hot” is a song by American rapper Snoop Dogg featuring American singer and producer Pharrell. The song was released on October 11, 2004 as the lead single from his sixth studio album, R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece (2004). It peaked at number one on both the US Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart, becoming Snoop Dogg’s second and Pharrell’s third US number-one single. “Drop It Like It’s Hot” is considered to be one of the best hip hop songs of all time.

Maroon 5- This Love

This Love is a song by American band Maroon 5. The song was released on June 25, 2002, as the second single from their debut album, Songs About Jane (2002). The lyrics are about the beginning and end of a romantic relationship. Upon its release, the song received generally positive reviews from music critics and was a commercial success worldwide. “This Love” peaked at number four on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and became one of Maroon 5’s signature songs. The single was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

The music video was directed by Phil Heyes and starts with Adam Levine waking up in bed with his girlfriend. As he leaves for work, she tells him that she loves him, to which he replies that he does not love her anymore. While at work in an old-fashioned laundry room, Levine writes the lyrics to “This Love” on a set of dirty overalls. He subsequently becomes distracted by daydreaming about his girlfriend, who appears in various settings including in a field and singing in front of a fire.

The Black Eyed Peas- Let’s Get It Started

The Black Eyed Peas- “Let’s Get It Started”
The Black Eyed Peas take you on a ride with this high-energy song that starts with a bang and doesn’t let up. The beat is catchy and will keep you moving, while the lyrics flow together perfectly. This is one of those songs that you can’t help but sing along to, no matter how many times you hear it.

Alicia Keys- Diary

“Diary” is a song by American singer Alicia Keys from her second studio album, The Diary of Alicia Keys (2003). Written by Keys, Kerry Brothers, Jr., and SamsonITE, the song was released as the album’s fourth single in March 2004. It peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and became Keys’ fourth consecutive top five hit from The Diary of Alicia Keys. “Diary” was nominated for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance and Best R&B Song at the 47th Grammy Awards.