10 Good Rap Songs To Run To

By: Elizabeth Stewart

Break Studios Contributing Writer

These 10 good rap songs to run to include thumping drum and bass beats to some good guitar riffs. Rap has been identified as synonymous to hip-hop, although this has been contentious and argued as two separate genres by rap purists. At the end of the day, however, rap music with its synthesized beats and powerful lyrical verses make it an ideal type of music for getting your legs moving.

  1. “99 Problems” “If you’re having girl problems, I feel bad for you, son / I’ve got 99 problems but a b*tch ain’t one.” For a man married to R&B superstar Beyonce, girl problems are definitely not high on Jay-Z’s list. This rap song’s heavy bass and guitar samples has a monotonous feel, which is a perfect compliment for the constant rhythm of running.
  2. “Run This Town” A single from Jay-Z’s “Blueprint 3” album, “Run This Town” is in collaboration with Rihanna and Kanye West. The music starts with a slow sample and Jay-Z’s rapping does not come until after a minute through the song. It is the kind of rap song that is great for warming up until you get your pace on.
  3. “On to the Next One” Running can be an almost zen-like experience, giving the runner clarity of mind. “On to the Next One” has a very catchy beat and Jay-Z’s repetitive rapping suits a tedious workout, such as running. The lyrics can also prove inspiring: “Double your money and make a stack.”
  4. “Wavin’ Flag” A good rap song when you are warming up for a run and mentally preparing yourself for the pain. K’naan’s “When I get older, I will be stronger” lyrics might just be the song you need. 
  5. “Bang Bang” Fun and witty, the lyrics of this rap song from K’Naan and Maroon Five vocalist Adam Levine should be on a runner’s music player. It’s the kind of song that will make you laugh and ease the exhaustion of a long run.
  6. “Bombs Over Baghdad” This 2007 track from Outkast is the kind of rap song that will make your heart keep on thumping. The drum and bass and fast beats ensures that you will go on running and not cut corners.
  7. “Pump It” Perfect for the gym as it is on the road, Black Eyed Peas’ “Pump It” is an ideal rap song for runners. “Pump it! / Louder!” on your headphones is like having your own drill sergeant and guarantees that you do that extra mile.
  8. “Lose Yourself” Eminem starts slow with a simple piano building up into his rap. The song picks up after 30 seconds with Eminem’s booming voice, just enough time for you to have raised your heart rate for a good run.
  9. “Pon de Replay” “Run, run, run, run, everybody move / Let me see you move,” screams Rihanna on “Pon de Replay.” This song has pumping music and a repetitive drum and bass sample, the kind you need for a good workout.
  10. “The Show Goes On” This Lupe Fiasco song is excellent for cooling down after a long run. The music starts slow and picks up, but neither loud nor fast enough. It is the kind of rap song that calms your heart instead of making it burst with some heavy bass.
Posted on: Apr. 06, 2011