XXXTentacion, born Jahseh Onfroy, was a rapper hailing from Florida who quickly rose to fame with his raw and aggressive style of music. Despite his controversial and tumultuous personal life, XXXTentacion was adored by many, especially among the younger generation. His music, which often explored themes of depression, pain, and love, resonated with many listeners due to its emotional vulnerability and authenticity.
Tragically, XXXTentacion’s promising career was cut short when he was fatally shot at the age of 20. Despite his premature death, his music continues to live on, achieving a cult-like popularity among fans who connect deeply with his lyrics and the emotions they convey.
In this article, we aim to celebrate XXXTentacion’s musical legacy by ranking his top 33 songs. This comprehensive list showcases the full range of his artistry, from his most popular hits to lesser-known tracks that demonstrate his unique blend of hip-hop, emo-rap, and SoundCloud rap. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, this list will provide a guide to the best of XXXTentacion’s discography.
The Rise of XXXTentacion
Early Life and Struggles
XXXTentacion was born Jahseh Dwayne Ricardo Onfroy on January 23, 1998, in Plantation, Florida. Raised primarily by his grandmother due to his mother’s struggles, Onfroy had a turbulent upbringing. He faced numerous challenges growing up, including getting expelled from middle school for physical altercations.
From an early age, Onfroy demonstrated an interest in music and began writing and recording songs in his early teens. However, his life took a darker turn as he got involved in legal issues and served time in a juvenile detention center.
Despite these struggles, Onfroy found solace in music. His experiences shaped his raw and emotional lyrical style, and he used music as an outlet to express his feelings of rage, sorrow, and vulnerability. These themes would later become central to his artistry as XXXTentacion, resonating with many fans who related to his honest and often painful exploration of mental health and personal hardship.
Breakthrough in Music
XXXTentacion’s breakthrough in the music industry was as unconventional as his musical style. He started by releasing music on SoundCloud, a platform popular with aspiring musicians due to its accessibility and freedom of expression. His first song, “Vice City”, was uploaded to the platform in 2014 when he was just 16 years old.
Despite the low production quality, XXXTentacion’s unique blend of genres and his raw, emotional lyrics quickly garnered attention. His music resonated with listeners who identified with his open discussions about depression, anxiety, and personal struggles.
In 2016, his track “Look at Me” became a viral hit, catapulting him into the mainstream music scene. The song’s lo-fi sound, aggressive lyrics, and catchy hook made it an instant success, and it eventually peaked at number 34 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This was a significant milestone for XXXTentacion, marking his transition from a SoundCloud artist to a recognized name in the music industry.
Following this success, XXXTentacion released his debut album, “17”, in 2017. The album, which further explored themes of mental health and personal hardship, debuted at number 2 on the Billboard 200 and received positive reviews from critics.
XXXTentacion continued to push boundaries with his music, often blending elements of rap, rock, and R&B. Despite his controversial image and the various legal issues he faced, his music continued to resonate with a large and dedicated fanbase.
His tragically short career was marked by a relentless drive to create and share his art, leaving behind a powerful legacy that continues to influence the music industry today.
XXXTentacion’s Musical Style and Themes
Aggressive rap style
XXXTentacion was known for his aggressive rap style, characterized by hard-hitting beats and bass-heavy production. His music often exuded a raw intensity that mirrored the emotional depth of his lyrics.
One of the best examples of his aggressive style is “Look at Me!”. The track, which served as his breakout single, features a distorted, booming bassline that underscores his confrontational lyrics. The song’s lo-fi production and relentless energy reflect XXXTentacion’s unapologetic attitude and his refusal to conform to traditional hip-hop norms.
Another notable track is “Riot”, in which XXXTentacion delivers a powerful commentary on societal issues over a gritty beat. The song showcases his ability to combine hard-hitting production with thought-provoking lyrics, further cementing his reputation as an artist unafraid to push boundaries.
XXXTentacion’s musical style was not limited to aggression and intensity, however. He also demonstrated a willingness to explore softer, more melodic sounds, often incorporating elements of R&B and indie rock into his music. This versatility allowed him to express a wide range of emotions in his songs, from anger and frustration to sorrow and vulnerability.
Regardless of the style or genre, XXXTentacion’s music always remained deeply personal. His songs often dealt with themes of mental health, heartbreak, and personal struggle, reflecting his own experiences and struggles. This authenticity resonated deeply with his fans, many of whom saw their own experiences reflected in his music.
Emotional Vulnerability in XXXTentacion’s Music
XXXTentacion’s music often delved into the realm of emotional vulnerability, a trait that distinguished him in the hip-hop scene. Emotional vulnerability is defined as the willingness to acknowledge your emotions, especially those that are uncomfortable or painful. It involves a state of emotional exposure that comes with a degree of uncertainty.
Two standout tracks where XXXTentacion explores this theme are “Jocelyn Flores” and “Everybody Dies in Their Nightmares”. In “Jocelyn Flores”, he raps about the suicide of a close friend, expressing his grief and confusion over her death. His lyrics are raw and heartfelt, reflecting the deep emotional pain he experienced.
Similarly, in “Everybody Dies in Their Nightmares”, XXXTentacion explores themes of depression and anxiety. The song’s somber tone and introspective lyrics reveal his struggles with mental health, showcasing his willingness to be emotionally vulnerable in his music.
These songs, among others, demonstrate XXXTentacion’s ability to express his emotions openly and honestly, an aspect of his music that resonated deeply with many fans. Despite the often aggressive and intense nature of his music, he was not afraid to show his softer side and discuss his struggles, making his music a source of comfort and connection for many listeners who were dealing with similar issues.
Abusive Relationships in XXXTentacion’s Music
XXXTentacion often used his music as a platform to discuss difficult topics, including abusive relationships. These are characterized by a pattern of behaviors used to maintain power and control over a partner, including physical, sexual, or emotional abuse.
Songs like “Revenge” and “Dead Inside” provide insight into the toxic, violent relationships that he had experienced or observed. In “Revenge”, XXXTentacion reflects on feelings of resentment and the desire for retaliation, common emotions in victims of abusive relationships. “Dead Inside”, on the other hand, encapsulates the emotional numbness that often comes from enduring such trauma.
It’s important to note that while these songs provide a perspective on abusive relationships, they should not be taken as an endorsement of such behavior. Instead, they serve to shed light on the dark reality that many people face, encouraging listeners to seek help if they find themselves in similar situations.
Hopefulness in XXXTentacion’s Music
Despite the heavy themes that pervade much of his music, XXXTentacion also conveyed moments of hope and uplift. Songs like “Moonlight” and “Before I Close My Eyes” offer glimpses of optimism amidst the darkness.
“Moonlight”, one of his most popular tracks, features a more upbeat production compared to his other songs, creating a sense of hope and positivity. Meanwhile, “Before I Close My Eyes” serves as a hopeful prayer for a better tomorrow, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, it’s possible to find moments of peace and optimism.
These songs highlight the complexity of XXXTentacion’s music and his ability to explore a wide range of emotions, from pain and despair to hope and resilience. His willingness to tackle difficult topics and express his emotions so openly is part of what made him such a compelling artist.
The Ranking Methodology for XXXTentacion’s Music
When ranking the music of an artist as prolific and versatile as XXXTentacion, a comprehensive methodology is needed to ensure that all aspects of his work are considered. Here’s a look at the key components of the ranking methodology used.
- Statistics from Spotify and YouTube: These two platforms are among the most popular for music streaming, making them reliable sources for gauging a song’s popularity. The number of streams or views a song has received on these platforms can provide insight into its reach and impact.
- Input from Music Critics: While popularity is important, critical acclaim is also a significant factor. The opinions of music critics, who often have a deep understanding of music and its cultural context, can provide valuable insights into a song’s quality and significance.
- Representation Across Themes and Albums: To fully appreciate XXXTentacion’s versatility as an artist, it’s essential to consider songs from various themes and albums. This ensures that both his aggressive rap style and his more emotionally vulnerable tracks are represented.
- Focus on Signature Songs That Define His Legacy: Some songs are particularly defining for an artist, either because they were commercially successful, critically acclaimed, or simply because they encapsulate the artist’s style and message. These signature songs often play a big role in shaping the artist’s legacy.
Top 33 XXXTentacion Songs
1. “SAD!”
- Release Date: March 2, 2018
- Album Name: ? (Question Mark)
“SAD!” is a song by American rapper XXXTENTACION from his second studio album ?. The track stands out due to its emotive lyrics and unique blend of lo-fi and trap beats. The song explores themes of depression and self-loathing, with XXXTENTACION expressing feelings of emptiness and the struggle with letting go of a loved one.
What makes this track particularly notable is its commercial success. After XXXTENTACION’s untimely death in June 2018, “SAD!” jumped from No. 52 to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making XXXTENTACION the first artist to top the chart posthumously in a lead role since The Notorious B.I.G. with “Mo Money Mo Problems” in 1997.
The song has also amassed over 1 billion streams on Spotify, demonstrating its enduring popularity.
Listen to the song here.
2. “Roll In Peace”
- Release Date: August 18, 2017
- Album Name: Project Baby 2
“Roll in Peace” is a song by American rapper Kodak Black featuring XXXTENTACION from his mixtape Project Baby 2. The song stands out for its catchy hook performed by XXXTENTACION and its raw lyrics that discuss both rappers’ legal troubles.
What makes this track particularly notable is its commercial success. It peaked at number 31 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of Kodak Black’s highest-charting songs.
The song also gained further attention after the release of a remix by T-Pain and its subsequent inclusion in his 2017 mixtape Oblivion.
3. “F**k Love”
- Release Date: August 25, 2017
- Album Name: 17
“F**k Love” is a song by American rapper XXXTentacion, featuring guest vocals from Trippie Redd. It’s from XXXTentacion’s debut album, 17. The track stands out for its melancholic sound and raw lyrics about heartbreak and unrequited love.
What makes this track particularly notable is its immense popularity and commercial success. It peaked at number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it is one of XXXTentacion’s most streamed songs, with over 1 billion streams on Spotify.
Listen to the song here.
4. “Look At Me!”
- Release Date: December 30, 2015
- Album Name: Revenge
“Look At Me!” is a song by American rapper XXXTENTACION from his debut commercial mixtape, Revenge. The track is known for its distorted production and aggressive lyrics.
The song gained popularity in early 2017 while XXXTENTACION was incarcerated. It’s considered his breakthrough hit and has been credited with helping to pioneer the SoundCloud rap movement.
“Look At Me!” peaked at number 34 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
5. “Jocelyn Flores”
- Release Date: August 25, 2017
- Album Name: 17
“Jocelyn Flores” is a song by American rapper XXXTentacion from his debut studio album, 17. The song is a tribute to a friend of the rapper who suffered from depression and committed suicide.
The track is noted for its melancholic theme and lo-fi sound, featuring a moody piano sample from Potsu’s track “I’m Closing My Eyes”. XXXTentacion’s lyrics discuss his feelings of shock and devastation following his friend’s death.
“Jocelyn Flores” was a commercial success, peaking at number 31 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving Multi-Platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Listen to the song here.
6. “Changes”
- Release Date: March 2, 2018
- Album Name: ?
“Changes” is a song by American rapper XXXTentacion from his second studio album, ?. The track is a departure from the more aggressive style of his earlier work, showcasing a softer, more introspective side.
The song is a melancholic piano-driven ballad in which XXXTentacion discusses a failing relationship and his desperate desire for it to improve. The lyrics are simple yet poignant, reflecting his emotional state.
“Changes” was commercially successful, peaking at number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving Platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Listen to the song here.
7. “Moonlight”
- Release Date: March 16, 2018
- Album Name: ?
“Moonlight” is a song by American rapper XXXTentacion from his second studio album, ?. The track is a fusion of alternative R&B and trap music, with lyrics that depict a romantic encounter under the moonlight.
The song showcases XXXTentacion’s versatility as an artist, with its catchy melody and memorable hook. The music video for “Moonlight,” released posthumously, features XXXTentacion alone in a moonlit forest, observing a party happening around him.
“Moonlight” was a commercial success, peaking at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving Multi-Platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
8. “Arms Around You”
- Release Date: October 25, 2018
- Artists: XXXTENTACION x Lil Pump Featuring Maluma & Swae Lee
“Arms Around You” is a posthumous single by American rappers XXXTentacion and Lil Pump featuring Colombian singer Maluma and American rapper Swae Lee. The song was released after XXXTentacion’s death and is a tribute to him.
The track is a blend of Latin pop and hip-hop, with lyrics expressing love and the desire to protect a significant other.
“Arms Around You” was a commercial success, peaking at number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving Platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Listen to the song here.
9. “BAD!”
- Release Date: November 9, 2018
- Album Name: Skins
“BAD!” is a posthumous single by American rapper XXXTentacion from his third studio album, Skins. This song was released after the rapper’s death.
The track is known for its catchy melody and minimalistic production, with lyrics expressing feelings of longing and heartbreak.
“BAD!” charted at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrating its commercial success. It has also been certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Listen to the song here.
10. “Falling Down”
- Release Date: September 19, 2018
- Artists: Lil Peep & XXXTENTACION
“Falling Down” is a posthumous single by American rappers Lil Peep and XXXTentacion. The song was released after both artists had tragically passed away.
The track is a melancholic reflection on fame, struggles, and loss, with lyrics expressing feelings of loneliness and despair. It features a blend of emo-rap and alternative rock, typical of Lil Peep’s style.
“Falling Down” was well-received commercially, peaking at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving Platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Listen to the song here.
11. “Everybody Dies In Their Nightmares”
- Release Date: August 25, 2017
- Album Name: 17
“Everybody Dies In Their Nightmares” is a song by American rapper XXXTentacion from his debut studio album, 17. The song is a blend of emo-rap and lo-fi hip-hop, with introspective lyrics that touch on themes of depression, loneliness, and anxiety.
The track stands out for its raw emotionality and XXXTentacion’s somber vocal delivery, offering a glimpse into the rapper’s struggles with mental health.
“Everybody Dies In Their Nightmares” achieved commercial success, peaking at number 54 on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving Platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Listen to the song here.
12. “The Remedy For A Broken Heart (Why Am I So In Love)”
- Release Date: March 16, 2018
- Album Name: ?
“The Remedy For A Broken Heart (Why Am I So In Love)” is a track by American rapper XXXTentacion from his second studio album, ?. The song is characterized by its lo-fi sound and emo-rap style, with introspective lyrics that discuss heartbreak and emotional turmoil.
The song reached number 58 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Listen to the song here.
13. “Numb”
- Release Date: March 16, 2018
- Album Name: ?
“Numb” is another track by XXXTentacion from the same album. This song blends alternative rock and rap, featuring melancholic lyrics that deal with feelings of emptiness and desolation.
“Numb” peaked at number 83 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is also certified Platinum by the RIAA.
Listen to the song here.
14. “Don’t Cry”
- Release Date: September 28, 2018
- Artists: Lil Wayne featuring XXXTENTACION
Don’t Cry” is a song by American rapper Lil Wayne from his twelfth studio album, Tha Carter V. The track features vocals from the late rapper XXXTentacion.
The song is a mix of emo-rap and hip-hop, with lyrics that delve into themes of mortality, legacy, and perseverance. XXXTentacion’s posthumous contribution to the track adds a poignant layer to the song’s emotional depth.
“Don’t Cry” was a commercial success, peaking at number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving Platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Listen to the song here.
15. “whoa (mind in awe)”
- Release Date: December 7, 2018
- Album Name: Skins
“whoa (mind in awe)” is a song by American rapper XXXTentacion from his posthumously released third studio album, Skins. The song is a blend of lo-fi hip-hop and alternative R&B, featuring minimalistic lyrics that convey a sense of introspection and awe.
The song reached number 37 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Listen to the song here.
16. “Revenge”
- Release Date: May 18, 2017
- Album Name: Revenge
“Revenge” is a song by American rapper XXXTentacion from his mixtape of the same name. Originally titled as “Garrett’s Revenge,” the song was written, produced, and performed by XXXTentacion.
The song is dedicated to his late friend, Jocelyn Flores, who committed suicide in the bathroom of his hotel room while visiting him.
You can listen to the song here.
17. “Hope”
- Release Date: March 2, 2018
- Album Name: ?
“Hope” is a song by XXXTentacion from his second studio album, ?. The song was dedicated to the victims of the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida. The song’s lyrics convey a message of consolation and assurance during times of despair and hardship.
The song peaked at number 70 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
You can listen to the song here.
18. “Infinity (888)”
- Release Date: March 16, 2018
- Artists: XXXTentacion featuring Joey Bada$$
“Infinity (888)” is a song by XXXTentacion from his second studio album, ?. The track features vocals from Brooklyn rapper Joey Bada$$. The song showcases both rappers’ lyrical prowess over a jazz-tinged boom-bap beat.
The song peaked at number 83 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Listen to the song here.
19. “Going Down!”
- Release Date: March 16, 2018
- Album Name: ?
“Going Down!” is another track from XXXTentacion’s second studio album, ?. The song is a blend of trap and emo-rap, with lyrics that delve into themes of fame and materialism.
The song reached number 79 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Listen to the song here.
20. “Save Me”
- Release Date: August 25, 2017
- Album Name: 17
“Save Me” is a song by XXXTentacion from his debut studio album, 17. The song’s lyrics delve into themes of depression and suicidal ideation, with XXXTentacion pleading for someone to save him from his inner turmoil. The song is characterized by its acoustic guitar-driven instrumental and raw, emotional vocals.
“Save Me” did not chart on the Billboard Hot 100, but the album 17 debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200, and the song has been noted for its emotional depth and honesty.
Listen to the song here.
21. “Vice City”
- Release Date: March 5, 2014
- Album Name: N/A
“Vice City” is one of the earliest songs released by XXXTentacion. It was first uploaded to his SoundCloud account on March 5, 2014. The song does not appear on any of his studio albums.
In “Vice City,” XXXTentacion raps about his life, ambitions, and struggles, over a jazzy and relaxed instrumental. This track showcases his early sound and style, which includes a mix of raw emotions and lyrical depth.
Listen to the song here.
22. “Carry On”
Release Date: August 25, 2017 Album Name: 17
“Carry On” is a song by XXXTentacion from his debut studio album, 17. The lyrics of the song touch on themes of depression, betrayal, and mental health struggles. The song features minimalist production, with a simple guitar melody and soft drums, which allows XXXTentacion’s raw and emotive vocals to take center stage.
The album 17 debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200, and “Carry On” has been lauded for its emotional depth and stark portrayal of mental health issues.
Listen to the song here.
23. “Depression & Obsession”
- Release Date: August 25, 2017
- Album Name: 17
“Depression & Obsession” is the 3rd track from XXXTentacion’s debut studio album, 17. The song was first previewed on August 5th on X’s Snapchat story. The lyrics convey themes of mental health struggles, specifically focusing on depression and an unhealthy fixation or obsession.
The music production is minimalistic, with a simple guitar strumming that underpins XXXTentacion’s raw and emotive vocals. This allows the song to create a poignant atmosphere that complements its heavy subject matter.
The album 17 debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200, and “Depression & Obsession” has been recognized for its candid portrayal of mental health issues.
Listen to the song here.
24. “Train Food”
- Release Date: December 7, 2018
- Album Name: Skins
“Train Food” is a song by XXXTentacion from his third studio album, Skins. The song was released posthumously after the rapper’s death in June 2018.
In “Train Food,” XXXTentacion tells a chilling story of a man meeting his end on the train tracks. The lyrics are introspective and dark, dealing with themes of mortality and regret. The track is stripped back, featuring minimal production that allows XXXTentacion’s narrative and expressive vocals to be at the forefront.
The album Skins debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, and “Train Food” stands out as one of its most haunting and powerful tracks.
Listen to the song here.
25. “One Minute”
- Release Date: December 7, 2018
- Album Name: Skins
“One Minute” is a song by XXXTentacion featuring Kanye West and Travis Barker from his third studio album, Skins. This song was released posthumously after XXXTentacion’s death in June 2018.
The song is a fusion of rap and rock, with Kanye West delivering an extensive verse while XXXTentacion handles the chorus and an aggressive outro. Travis Barker, drummer for Blink-182, provides the intense drumming that propels the song.
The album Skins debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, and “One Minute” stands out as one of its most unique tracks due to its genre-blending nature and the involvement of high-profile artists.
Listen to the song here.
26. “I Don’t Let Go”
- Release Date: December 7, 2018
- Album Name: Skins
“I Don’t Let Go” is another track from XXXTentacion’s posthumous album, Skins. The song features a catchy beat and melodic flow, with lyrics that touch on themes of resilience and determination.
Just like the rest of the album, the production on “I Don’t Let Go” is minimalistic, allowing XXXTentacion’s vocals to shine. The song is a testament to XXXTentacion’s versatility as an artist, showcasing his ability to switch between different styles and genres.
Listen to the song here.
27. “Staring At The Sky”
- Release Date: December 7, 2018
- Album Name: Skins
“Staring At The Sky” is a track from XXXTentacion’s third studio album, Skins. This song was released posthumously after the artist’s death in June 2018.
The song is a blend of acoustic guitar and screamed vocals, showcasing XXXTentacion’s versatility as an artist and his willingness to experiment with different genres. The lyrics touch on themes of emotional turmoil and despair.
Skins debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, with “Staring At The Sky” being recognized for its unique fusion of styles.
Listen to the song here.
28. “What Are You So Afraid Of”
- Release Date: December 7, 2018
- Album Name: Skins
“What Are You So Afraid Of” is the closing track of XXXTentacion’s Skins album. The song is a haunting acoustic ballad, with XXXTentacion pondering fear and love.
The simplicity of the song allows the raw emotion in XXXTentacion’s vocals to take center stage. The lyrics delve into themes of fear, vulnerability, and introspection, providing a fitting end to the album.
Listen to the song here.
29. “Difference (Interlude)”
- Release Date: December 7, 2018
- Album Name: Skins
“Difference (Interlude)” is a short song from XXXTentacion’s posthumous album, Skins. The track was released after the rapper’s death in June 2018.
This interlude is a soothing acoustic piece, featuring XXXTentacion’s melodic vocals over a gentle guitar riff. The lyrics, while sparse, touch on themes of love and longing. As an interlude, it serves as a brief moment of tranquility within the album.
Listen to the song here.
30. “Sauce!”
- Release Date: January 23, 2019
- Album Name: Members Only, Vol. 4
“Sauce!” is a song by XXXTentacion from the compilation album “Members Only, Vol. 4”. This song was also released posthumously.
“Sauce!” is a bouncy, upbeat track that showcases XXXTentacion’s playful side. The song features a blend of hip hop and reggae influences, with lyrics that exude confidence and swagger.
The track stands out for its catchy hook and lively energy, offering a different vibe compared to the darker tones found in much of XXXTentacion’s discography.
Listen to the song here.
31. “Middle Child”
- Release Date: June 7, 2019
- Album Name: TrapStar Turnt PopStar
“Middle Child” is a song by PnB Rock featuring XXXTentacion from his second studio album, TrapStar Turnt PopStar. The track was released posthumously after XXXTentacion’s death in June 2018.
The song is a tribute to XXXTentacion with PnB Rock reflecting on their friendship and the impact of his passing. XXXTentacion’s verse was recorded prior to his death and incorporated into the song as a feature.
TrapStar Turnt PopStar peaked at number four on the US Billboard 200, with “Middle Child” being recognized for its emotional depth and poignant lyrics.
Listen to the song here.
32. “Bad Vibes Forever”
- Release Date: December 6, 2019
- Album Name: Bad Vibes Forever
“Bad Vibes Forever” is the title track of XXXTentacion’s fourth and final studio album. The song features PnB Rock and Trippie Redd.
The track is a blend of acoustic guitar and hip hop beats, with all three artists delivering verses about love and heartbreak. Despite the somber subject matter, the song has an uplifting melody that contrasts with its lyrics.
Bad Vibes Forever debuted at number five on the US Billboard 200[^4^], with the title track standing out for its collaborative nature and emotive lyrics.
Listen to the song here.
33. “Danny Phantom”
- Release Date: August 20, 2021
- Album Name: Trip At Knight
“Danny Phantom” is a song by Trippie Redd featuring XXXTentacion from his fourth studio album, Trip At Knight. The track was released posthumously after XXXTentacion’s death in June 2018.
The song’s title references the popular animated television series “Danny Phantom”, and the lyrics contain various pop culture references. XXXTentacion’s verse on this track was recorded prior to his death and included in the song as a feature.
“Danny Phantom” showcases the aggressive and energetic rap style that both Trippie Redd and XXXTentacion are known for. The song has been recognized for its catchy hook and hard-hitting beats.
Listen to the song here.
34. “Guardian Angel”
Release Date: December 7, 2018 Album Name: Skins
“Guardian Angel” is a song from XXXTentacion’s posthumous album, Skins. The track was released after the rapper’s death in June 2018.
The song stands out for its introspective lyrics and emotional depth. XXXTentacion reflects on his struggles and acknowledges the guardian angel who has been watching over him.
The instrumental of “Guardian Angel” is a reversed version of “Jocelyn Flores”, a song from XXXTentacion’s previous album, 17. This gives the track a haunting, melancholic feel that complements the raw vulnerability of the lyrics.
Listen to the song here.
The Legacy of XXXTentacion
Impact on Music Industry
XXXTentacion, born as Jahseh Dwayne Ricardo Onfroy, was a groundbreaking artist who left an indelible mark on the music industry. Known for his genre-defying artistry, he blended elements of hip-hop, punk, and R&B into his music.
This unique approach to music production led to the popularization of the “emo rap” subgenre, paving the way for a new wave of artists unafraid to experiment with their sound.
Moreover, XXXTentacion’s achievements as a zeitgeist-grabbing, industry-defying, boundary-destroying phenomenon have been recognized by many. His emotionally charged lyrics and experimental soundscapes have resonated with millions of fans worldwide. Despite the controversies surrounding his life and career, there is no denying the influence he had on the music industry.
Remembering XXXTentacion
XXXTentacion’s legacy extends beyond his music. In addition to his artistic contributions, he made notable efforts to give back to his community. He created the XXXTentacion Foundation and organized charity events that fed more than a thousand people. These actions demonstrate the rapper’s desire to make a positive impact on the world.
XXXTentacion’s music continues to touch people’s hearts, and his influence can be seen in the work of many artists today. Despite his untimely death, his musical legacy lives on, and he remains ever present in headlines.
Final Thoughts
XXXTentacion’s musical career was short-lived but impactful. His contributions to the music industry continue to inspire artists to push boundaries and explore new sounds. Songs such as “Guardian Angel”, “Bad Vibes Forever”, and “Middle Child” are testament to his talent and creativity. These tracks encapsulate the raw emotion, unique sound, and innovative spirit that defined XXXTentacion as an artist.
Despite the controversies surrounding his life, XXXTentacion’s music continues to resonate with fans worldwide. His influence on the industry and the artists of today is undeniable, marking him as a significant figure in the history of music.
FAQs
What was XXXTentacion’s biggest hit song?
XXXTentacion’s biggest hit was “Sad!”, released posthumously after his death. It debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
How can I listen to XXXTentacion’s music?
You can stream XXXTentacion’s discography on all major platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, etc. His two studio albums are ? and Skins.
What songs showcase XXXTentacion’s emotional side best?
Songs like “Jocelyn Flores”, “Everybody Dies in Their Nightmares”, and “Changes” highlight his vulnerable lyrics about depression.
Did XXXTentacion release any new music after his death?
Yes, XXXTentacion has had several posthumous song releases. His song “Sad!” came out shortly after death as did his third and final album Skins. Recently he was featured on the Kanye song “True Love”.
What genre is XXXTentacion’s music?
He pioneered the sub-genre emo rap, which fuses hip-hop production with raw vulnerability covering topics like sadness, suicidal thoughts, heartbreak & more.
References:
- Saponara, M. (2018, June 26). Billboard. Billboard. https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/xxxtentacion-charity-event-8462553/
- Weingarten, C. R. (2023, October 6). Rolling Stone. Rolling Stone. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/weve-only-begun-to-understand-xxxtentacions-musical-legacy-665891/
- Arun, E. (n.d.). The Legacy of XXXTentacion: The artist ever present in headlines. The Issaquah High Times. https://ihsjournalism.online/1355/news/the-legacy-of-xxxtentacion-the-artist-ever-present-in-headlines/
