Twista, Vic Mensa, Dreezy & More Rank their Chicago Top 10 Get Up Anthems: See The List

August 28, 2024 E Jazz Reporter

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Few songs withstand time, distinguished by their infectious beats, experimental sounds, poignant lyrics or enduring appeal, rendering them as classics. In partnership with Tres Generaciones Tequila, a brand that champions the journey and not just the destination, we’re on an exploration to roundup the top Get Up Anthems over this next year from these six cities: Houston, Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Miami and Los Angeles. Guided by curated panels, we delve deep into each city’s sonic history, spotlighting tracks that embody resilience, authenticity, and innovation and celebrate the power music has to inspire listeners to get up and chase their passions, in the spirit of perseverance.

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The Top 10 Get Up Anthems from Chicago were crafted through a blend of editorial expertise, data-driven analytics, social impact and personal sentiment, to create a ranked list of the songs which inspired, captivated, and energized the A. In a historical dive from 1973 to present day, the city’s playlist [click HERE to play] features hometown hits that are synonymous with the city’s rich history and culture, hand selected by Chicago’s very own, Twista, Vic Mensa and Dreezy, Billboard editor, Kyle Denis, and moderated by Rocsi Diaz.

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Did they get it right? Or were they off the mark?

Take a look at the Top 10 Get Up Anthems for Chicago:

10. “Kill S**t” – G Herbo and Lil Bibby (2012)

“Kill Shit” is a powerful embodiment of Chicago’s drill movement, a subgenre that captures the raw and often harsh realities of life in the city’s neighborhoods. The track, produced by DJ L, is more than just a song; it’s a declaration of resilience and survival. G Herbo and Lil Bibby’s aggressive delivery and vivid storytelling resonated with a generation of Chicago youth who saw their own lives reflected in the lyrics. While it didn’t chart on the Billboard Hot 100, its influence on the drill genre and the careers of both artists is undeniable. This track served as a catalyst, not just for G Herbo and Lil Bibby, but for the entire drill scene, which would go on to shape the sound of hip-hop for years to come.

9. “This Ain’t What You Want” – Lil Durk (2013)

“This Ain’t What You Want” marked a turning point for Lil Durk, both artistically and commercially. The track’s dark, menacing production, paired with Durk’s introspective lyrics, delves into the complexities of life in Chicago’s streets. It’s not just a song, but a reflection of the tension, struggles, and aspirations that define the drill music scene. By capturing these elements so effectively, Lil Durk solidified his role as one of the most influential voices in Chicago rap. The track also highlighted his ability to blend gritty street narratives with a more polished sound, a balance that would become a hallmark of his later work. It’s a song that helped put Lil Durk on the map nationally, while remaining deeply rooted in the city that shaped him.

8. “Percolator” – Cajmere (1992)

“Percolator” is a quintessential Chicago house track that exemplifies the city’s rich history in electronic music. Cajmere (aka Green Velvet) crafted a minimalistic yet infectious beat that became an instant classic on the dance floors of Chicago’s clubs. The repetitive, hypnotic nature of the track is a testament to the power of simplicity in music production. Though “Percolator” didn’t chart in the mainstream, its impact on the house music scene was profound, influencing countless DJs and producers around the world. The track’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to get people moving, a true “get up” anthem that speaks to the spirit of perseverance and joy that is at the heart of Chicago’s music culture.

7. “Kick, Push” – Lupe Fiasco (2006)

“Kick Push” is a breath of fresh air in the world of hip-hop, offering a narrative that was both unique and universally relatable. Lupe Fiasco’s debut single, produced by Soundtrakk, tells the story of a young skateboarder navigating life’s challenges, using his passion as a means of escape and expression. This was a stark departure from the prevailing themes in hip-hop at the time, and it showcased Lupe’s ability to bring new perspectives to the genre. The song’s smooth, jazzy production complements the storytelling perfectly, creating a track that feels both introspective and uplifting. “Kick Push” didn’t just introduce Lupe Fiasco to the world; it also expanded the boundaries of what hip-hop could be, resonating with listeners who found their own passions reflected in the lyrics.

6. “No Problems” – Chance the Rapper feat. Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz (2016)

“No Problems” is more than just a hit song; it’s an anthem of independence and celebration. Chance the Rapper’s collaboration with Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz on this track from his Coloring Book mixtape embodies the spirit of triumph over adversity. Produced by Brasstracks, the song’s upbeat energy and infectious hook made it an instant favorite, not just in Chicago but across the country. The track’s success—culminating in a Grammy win for Best Rap Performance—is a testament to Chance’s unique approach to music and business. As an independent artist, Chance’s success with “No Problems” sent a powerful message to the industry: you don’t need a major label to achieve greatness. The song resonates deeply with those who have faced obstacles and come out on top, making it a perfect addition to this list of Get Up Anthems.

6. “The Light” – Common (2000)

“The Light” is a beautiful example of how hip-hop can be both deeply personal and universally resonant. Produced by the legendary J Dilla, the track features a smooth, soulful beat that perfectly complements Common’s heartfelt lyrics about love and commitment. Released as part of his Like Water for Chocolate album, “The Light” stands out as a conscious, introspective track that showcases Common’s lyrical prowess. This song had a significant impact on Chicago’s hip-hop scene, as it highlighted a more thoughtful, positive side of the genre at a time when mainstream hip-hop was dominated by more aggressive content. “The Light” not only earned Common a Grammy nomination, but it also solidified his place as one of the most respected and influential voices in hip-hop. It’s a song that continues to inspire listeners to connect with their emotions and express themselves authentically.

5. “Hay” – Crucial Conflict (1996)

“Hay” is a track that encapsulates the eclectic nature of Chicago’s hip-hop scene. Crucial Conflict’s fusion of hip-hop with country vibes created a unique sound that was unlike anything else at the time. The song’s twangy production and catchy hook made it an instant hit in Chicago, and its success helped to shine a spotlight on the city’s West Side. Included in the group’s debut album The Final Tic, “Hay” played a crucial role in expanding the boundaries of hip-hop, showing that the genre could draw on a wide range of musical influences. The song’s success on the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at No. 18, is a testament to its broad appeal.

4. “Po Pimp” – Do or Die feat. Twista (1996)

The seminal track from Chicago rap group Do or Die, featuring Twista and produced by The Legendary Traxster, “Po Pimp” is characterized by its smooth, melodic production and rapid-fire verses, epitomizing the Midwest’s unique twist on gangsta rap. The song became a massive hit in Chicago and beyond, reaching No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 and played a crucial role in popularizing the “speed rap” style and brought national attention to Chicago’s hip-hop scene.

3. “All Falls Down” – Kanye West feat. Syleena Johnson (2004)

The self-produced standout track from Kanye West’s debut album The College Dropout, “All Falls Down” blends soulful production with introspective, thought-provoking lyrics, featuring a sample of Lauryn Hill’s “Mystery of Iniquity,” reinterpreted with Syleena Johnson’s powerful vocals. Kanye’s commentary on materialism, self-consciousness, and societal pressures struck a chord with listeners, both in Chicago and beyond. The song’s success, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidified Kanye’s place as a leading figure in hip-hop, known for pushing boundaries both musically and lyrically. “All Falls Down” is more than just a hit; it’s a cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with listeners who grapple with similar themes in their own lives

2. “Don’t Like” – Chief Keef (2012)

“Don’t Like” is a raw, unfiltered anthem that became the defining track of Chicago’s drill movement. Produced by Young Chop, the song’s minimalist production and aggressive lyrics capture the stark realities of life on Chicago’s South Side. Chief Keef’s delivery is unapologetically direct, and the song’s hook became a rallying cry for a generation of listeners. The impact of “Don’t Like” was immense, not only in Chicago but across the world, as it introduced drill music to a global audience. The song’s influence is evident in the countless artists who have adopted the drill sound, and its legacy continues to shape the trajectory of hip-hop. The remix by Kanye West and other artists on the G.O.O.D. Music compilation further cemented its status as a modern classic.

1. “Overnight Celebrity” – Twista (2004)

“Overnight Celebrity” is a masterclass in hip-hop production and lyrical delivery, showcasing Twista’s rapid-fire flow over a dramatic, orchestral beat produced by Kanye West. Released as part of Twista’s Kamikaze album, the song is a perfect blend of soulful samples and modern hip-hop, creating a sound that is both timeless and innovative. The track’s narrative of sudden fame and its pitfalls resonates with listeners, making it more than just a club hit. Peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Overnight Celebrity” played a significant role in elevating Twista’s status in the music industry, while also highlighting the unique style of rap that Chicago is known for. The song’s impact on the city’s music scene is profound, as it exemplifies the creativity and resilience that have always defined Chicago’s hip-hop culture.

Watch the full discussion HERE and recreate the cocktails that powered the conversation at home! And be sure to follow along on all content for the Get Up Anthems series HERE.