The Best Rap Verses Of 2023 (So Far)

From Babyface Ray to Cardi B and Doja Cat, here are the artists who have delivered the best verses of 2023 thus far.

Jun 22, 2023

Complex Original

There has yet to be a No. 1 hip-hop album in 2023, but there has been no shortage of elite rap verses from a variety of artists this year so far. From the energetic and innovative Jersey Club and New York drill fusion in Mali Smith’s On The Radar MHPG Cypher to the introspective toilings of Tyler, the Creator on his “Sorry Not Sorry” verse and the coveted Cardi B add-on—this time, on Latto’s “Put It On Da Floor Again;” rap has still yielded impressive bars despite the genre not topping the charts as it has in the past. Hip-hop is constantly changing, but it’s trending in the right direction, even if the numbers haven't reflected that yet.

Here are the best rap verses of 2023 so far.

Verse: 1
For “Ron Artest,” Babyface Ray is a little all over the place—but in the best way possible. Here, he swirls death threats, unaffected brags and pathos with a mix of precision and colorful imagination, invoking Ron Artest's infamous NBA brawl (“Niggas yellin' from the stands, watch what you sayin'”) before implicitly threatening nosy neighbors with his gun collection (“Grab the Draco off the couch”). Piercing, yet effortless, Ray’s verse is a mesmerizing combination of menace, emotional complexity and icy cool.—Peter A. Berry — YouTube

**Verse:** 1
For “Ron Artest,” Babyface Ray is a little all over the place—but in the best way possible. Here, he swirls death threats, unaffected brags and pathos with a mix of precision and colorful imagination, invoking Ron Artest's infamous NBA brawl (“Niggas yellin' from the stands, watch what you sayin'”) before implicitly threatening nosy neighbors with his gun collection (“Grab the Draco off the couch”). Piercing, yet effortless, Ray’s verse is a mesmerizing combination of menace, emotional complexity and icy cool.—Peter A. Berry

YouTube

**Verse:** 1
For “Ron Artest,” Babyface Ray is a little all over the place—but in the best way possible. Here, he swirls death threats, unaffected brags and pathos with a mix of precision and colorful imagination, invoking Ron Artest's infamous NBA brawl (“Niggas yellin' from the stands, watch what you sayin'”) before implicitly threatening nosy neighbors with his gun collection (“Grab the Draco off the couch”). Piercing, yet effortless, Ray’s verse is a mesmerizing combination of menace, emotional complexity and icy cool.—Peter A. Berry

Verse: 1
New Jersey rap is more easily defined by energy than sound, and Mali Smith fully embodied the unbridled feeling of being a Jersey rapper in the way he opened MHPG Sound’s On The Radar freestyle with his verse. “Are you dumb?” Smith asks sincerely before ripping apart the soulful sped-up sample drill version of Twista’s “Overnight Celebrity.” While the MHPG Sound rapper keeps energy high throughout the entire verse, he also laces it with clever punchlines like “Bread over butter, I keep me a toaster” all while gliding over the beat with ease. This performance is capped by an emphatic question that is worth repeating whenever anything fraudulent occurs and closes the verse perfectly, “The fuck are we really doing here?” —Jordan Rose — YouTube

**Verse**: 1
New Jersey rap is more easily defined by energy than sound, and Mali Smith fully embodied the unbridled feeling of being a Jersey rapper in the way he opened MHPG Sound’s *On The Radar* freestyle with his verse. “Are you dumb?” Smith asks sincerely before ripping apart the soulful sped-up sample drill version of Twista’s “Overnight Celebrity.” While the MHPG Sound rapper keeps energy high throughout the entire verse, he also laces it with clever punchlines like “Bread over butter, I keep me a toaster” all while gliding over the beat with ease. This performance is capped by an emphatic question that is worth repeating whenever anything fraudulent occurs and closes the verse perfectly, “The fuck are we really doing here?” *—Jordan Rose*

YouTube

**Verse**: 1
New Jersey rap is more easily defined by energy than sound, and Mali Smith fully embodied the unbridled feeling of being a Jersey rapper in the way he opened MHPG Sound’s *On The Radar* freestyle with his verse. “Are you dumb?” Smith asks sincerely before ripping apart the soulful sped-up sample drill version of Twista’s “Overnight Celebrity.” While the MHPG Sound rapper keeps energy high throughout the entire verse, he also laces it with clever punchlines like “Bread over butter, I keep me a toaster” all while gliding over the beat with ease. This performance is capped by an emphatic question that is worth repeating whenever anything fraudulent occurs and closes the verse perfectly, “The fuck are we really doing here?” *—Jordan Rose*

Verse: 3
Yung Miami's verse on the "Don't Play With It" remix is a solid addition that takes the track to new heights. While Lola Brooke's original solo record was already a hit, the collaboration with Latto and Yung Miami brings a fresh dynamic. Yung Miami's verse is an explosive display of her ability to create viral moments. Her bold and unapologetic delivery demands immediate attention, showcasing her undeniable presence. As she joins forces with the other talented artists on the track, Yung Miamie adds an extra layer of fire and intensity with her verse. —Jessica McKinney — YouTube

**Verse:** 3
Yung Miami's verse on the "Don't Play With It" remix is a solid addition that takes the track to new heights. While Lola Brooke's original solo record was already a hit, the collaboration with Latto and Yung Miami brings a fresh dynamic. Yung Miami's verse is an explosive display of her ability to create viral moments. Her bold and unapologetic delivery demands immediate attention, showcasing her undeniable presence. As she joins forces with the other talented artists on the track, Yung Miamie adds an extra layer of fire and intensity with her verse. *—Jessica McKinney*

YouTube

**Verse:** 3
Yung Miami's verse on the "Don't Play With It" remix is a solid addition that takes the track to new heights. While Lola Brooke's original solo record was already a hit, the collaboration with Latto and Yung Miami brings a fresh dynamic. Yung Miami's verse is an explosive display of her ability to create viral moments. Her bold and unapologetic delivery demands immediate attention, showcasing her undeniable presence. As she joins forces with the other talented artists on the track, Yung Miamie adds an extra layer of fire and intensity with her verse. *—Jessica McKinney*

Verse: 1
Killer Mike made a grand, both strong and tender return with his already acclaimed, self-titled project Michael. In an attempt to encapsulate his essence, the Run the Jewels rapper created his most personal project to date. Anchored by the soulful voice of Detroit’s Eryn Allen Kane, the track’s opening verse is a reflective love letter to his late mother, “sweet Denise,” and grandmother, who died in 2017 and 2012 respectively. “If God set me back to normal to be next to you/I would gladly trade it all 'cause I be missin' you,” he raps from his core. In an album filled with noteworthy collaborative tracks that honor Mike’s legend and welcome him anew, it’s in honoring the woman who raised him that his delivery is strongest and, despite the subject at hand, he feels lightest. —Ecleen Luzmila Caraballo — YouTube

**Verse:** 1
Killer Mike made a grand, both strong and tender return with his already acclaimed, self-titled project *Michael*. In an attempt to encapsulate his essence, the Run the Jewels rapper created his most personal project to date. Anchored by the soulful voice of Detroit’s Eryn Allen Kane, the track’s opening verse is a reflective love letter to his late mother, “sweet Denise,” and grandmother, who died in 2017 and 2012 respectively. “If God set me back to normal to be next to you/I would gladly trade it all 'cause I be missin' you,” he raps from his core. In an album filled with noteworthy collaborative tracks that honor Mike’s legend and welcome him anew, it’s in honoring the woman who raised him that his delivery is strongest and, despite the subject at hand, he feels lightest. *—Ecleen Luzmila Caraballo*

YouTube

**Verse:** 1
Killer Mike made a grand, both strong and tender return with his already acclaimed, self-titled project *Michael*. In an attempt to encapsulate his essence, the Run the Jewels rapper created his most personal project to date. Anchored by the soulful voice of Detroit’s Eryn Allen Kane, the track’s opening verse is a reflective love letter to his late mother, “sweet Denise,” and grandmother, who died in 2017 and 2012 respectively. “If God set me back to normal to be next to you/I would gladly trade it all 'cause I be missin' you,” he raps from his core. In an album filled with noteworthy collaborative tracks that honor Mike’s legend and welcome him anew, it’s in honoring the woman who raised him that his delivery is strongest and, despite the subject at hand, he feels lightest. *—Ecleen Luzmila Caraballo*

Verse: 1
As the title suggests, Babytron’s “100 Bars” hinges on a specific numerical concept. For five minutes, he rattles off 100 bars, counting upward as he figures out how to include the numbers 1–100 in each bar. From a lesser rapper, this could come across like a half-baked gimmick. But from Babytron, it’s a wildly entertaining exercise that pushes the Michigan rapper into wacky new territory as he jumps from bar to bar with philosophical musings (“Ten out of ten timеs, can tell a liar from the truth”), Detroit shoutouts (“I-75 to Eight Mile, just the usual”), and more than a few sports allusions (“Cuban hit for seventy-seven, Luka Trončić on the Mavs/ Mark Cuban, you get it?”). Run this one back 100 times until you catch all the references. —Eric Skelton — YouTube

**Verse:** 1
As the title suggests, Babytron’s “100 Bars” hinges on a specific numerical concept. For five minutes, he rattles off 100 bars, counting upward as he figures out how to include the numbers 1–100 in each bar. From a lesser rapper, this could come across like a half-baked gimmick. But from Babytron, it’s a wildly entertaining exercise that pushes the Michigan rapper into wacky new territory as he jumps from bar to bar with philosophical musings (“Ten out of ten timеs, can tell a liar from the truth”), Detroit shoutouts (“I-75 to Eight Mile, just the usual”), and more than a few sports allusions (“Cuban hit for seventy-seven, Luka Trončić on the Mavs/ Mark Cuban, you get it?”). Run this one back 100 times until you catch all the references. *—Eric Skelton*

YouTube

**Verse:** 1
As the title suggests, Babytron’s “100 Bars” hinges on a specific numerical concept. For five minutes, he rattles off 100 bars, counting upward as he figures out how to include the numbers 1–100 in each bar. From a lesser rapper, this could come across like a half-baked gimmick. But from Babytron, it’s a wildly entertaining exercise that pushes the Michigan rapper into wacky new territory as he jumps from bar to bar with philosophical musings (“Ten out of ten timеs, can tell a liar from the truth”), Detroit shoutouts (“I-75 to Eight Mile, just the usual”), and more than a few sports allusions (“Cuban hit for seventy-seven, Luka Trončić on the Mavs/ Mark Cuban, you get it?”). Run this one back 100 times until you catch all the references. *—Eric Skelton*

Verse: 1
Lil Wayne is a force and his verse on “Kant Nobody” continues to solidify his position as a pro in the rap game. With his trademark wordplay and clever punchlines, Wayne effortlessly commands attention on the track. His delivery is both confident and charismatic, showcasing his mastery of the rap game. Wayne's verse adds a dynamic energy to the song, and it's a reminder of his enduring talent and why he remains one of the most influential figures in hip-hop. —Jessica McKinney — YouTube

**Verse:** 1
Lil Wayne is a force and his verse on “Kant Nobody” continues to solidify his position as a pro in the rap game. With his trademark wordplay and clever punchlines, Wayne effortlessly commands attention on the track. His delivery is both confident and charismatic, showcasing his mastery of the rap game. Wayne's verse adds a dynamic energy to the song, and it's a reminder of his enduring talent and why he remains one of the most influential figures in hip-hop. *—Jessica McKinney*

YouTube

**Verse:** 1
Lil Wayne is a force and his verse on “Kant Nobody” continues to solidify his position as a pro in the rap game. With his trademark wordplay and clever punchlines, Wayne effortlessly commands attention on the track. His delivery is both confident and charismatic, showcasing his mastery of the rap game. Wayne's verse adds a dynamic energy to the song, and it's a reminder of his enduring talent and why he remains one of the most influential figures in hip-hop. *—Jessica McKinney*

Verse: 3
It doesn't sound possible to be agitated and unbothered at the same time, but with a blend of dismissive shit talk and pristine pettiness, Aminé pulls it off. Coasting over a dreamy Jermaine Jackson sample, the Portland spitter threads Kenneth Cole and Lord of the Rings references with a mix of ease and finesse that seeps into the beat. His quippy put-downs spill out like casual scoffs. Aminé's not chasing Hot 100 hits, but as he notes, that's a lot harder to care about when Halle Berry's one of your close friends on Instagram. — Peter A. Berry — YouTube

**Verse**: 3
It doesn't sound possible to be agitated and unbothered at the same time, but with a blend of dismissive shit talk and pristine pettiness, Aminé pulls it off. Coasting over a dreamy Jermaine Jackson sample, the Portland spitter threads Kenneth Cole and *Lord of the Rings* references with a mix of ease and finesse that seeps into the beat. His quippy put-downs spill out like casual scoffs. Aminé's not chasing Hot 100 hits, but as he notes, that's a lot harder to care about when Halle Berry's one of your close friends on Instagram. *— Peter A. Berry*

YouTube

**Verse**: 3
It doesn't sound possible to be agitated and unbothered at the same time, but with a blend of dismissive shit talk and pristine pettiness, Aminé pulls it off. Coasting over a dreamy Jermaine Jackson sample, the Portland spitter threads Kenneth Cole and *Lord of the Rings* references with a mix of ease and finesse that seeps into the beat. His quippy put-downs spill out like casual scoffs. Aminé's not chasing Hot 100 hits, but as he notes, that's a lot harder to care about when Halle Berry's one of your close friends on Instagram. *— Peter A. Berry*

Verse: 3
Central Cee’s second verse on “Sprinter” is a master class for slick talk. For the track, he skates around a frenetic beat and anything close to true intimacy, using some quippy one-liners to make his point: “Give me my space, I'm intergalactic/Before I give you my Insta' password, I'll give you the pin to my Amex.” It’s fuckboy energy, but it’s all playful enough that he doesn’t come off as trying too hard to be toxic. It’s a blunt verse coated in a playboy’s mix of charm, finesse, and dismissal. —Peter A. Berry — YouTube

**Verse:** 3
Central Cee’s second verse on “Sprinter” is a master class for slick talk. For the track, he skates around a frenetic beat and anything close to true intimacy, using some quippy one-liners to make his point: “Give me my space, I'm intergalactic/Before I give you my Insta' password, I'll give you the pin to my Amex.” It’s fuckboy energy, but it’s all playful enough that he doesn’t come off as trying too hard to be toxic. It’s a blunt verse coated in a playboy’s mix of charm, finesse, and dismissal. *—Peter A. Berry*

YouTube

**Verse:** 3
Central Cee’s second verse on “Sprinter” is a master class for slick talk. For the track, he skates around a frenetic beat and anything close to true intimacy, using some quippy one-liners to make his point: “Give me my space, I'm intergalactic/Before I give you my Insta' password, I'll give you the pin to my Amex.” It’s fuckboy energy, but it’s all playful enough that he doesn’t come off as trying too hard to be toxic. It’s a blunt verse coated in a playboy’s mix of charm, finesse, and dismissal. *—Peter A. Berry*

Verse: 1
André 3000 doesn't do guest verses often, but when he does, it's usually incredible. The latest example is his turn on Killer Mike's "Scientists & Engineers," a colorful exhibition for wordplay and air-tight rhyming. Here, he splits words and syllables into unpredictable halves and fluctuating flows, creating complex rhyme schemes that only materialize at the last possible second: “A stamina stampede of happily happenings, dabblin' into oblivion, neon, beyond the ambience.” With alliteration, symbolism, and rare rap agility, 3 Stacks simply does it again. —Peter A. Berry — YouTube

**Verse:** 1
André 3000 doesn't do guest verses often, but when he does, it's usually incredible. The latest example is his turn on Killer Mike's "Scientists & Engineers," a colorful exhibition for wordplay and air-tight rhyming. Here, he splits words and syllables into unpredictable halves and fluctuating flows, creating complex rhyme schemes that only materialize at the last possible second: “A stamina stampede of happily happenings, dabblin' into oblivion, neon, beyond the ambience.” With alliteration, symbolism, and rare rap agility, 3 Stacks simply does it again. *—Peter A. Berry*

YouTube

**Verse:** 1
André 3000 doesn't do guest verses often, but when he does, it's usually incredible. The latest example is his turn on Killer Mike's "Scientists & Engineers," a colorful exhibition for wordplay and air-tight rhyming. Here, he splits words and syllables into unpredictable halves and fluctuating flows, creating complex rhyme schemes that only materialize at the last possible second: “A stamina stampede of happily happenings, dabblin' into oblivion, neon, beyond the ambience.” With alliteration, symbolism, and rare rap agility, 3 Stacks simply does it again. *—Peter A. Berry*

Verse: 1
It doesn't matter if it's a movie soundtrack, commercial spot, guest feature or otherwise, JID is going to spit, and he does just that on the Creed 3 soundtrack cut “In The Room” featuring Tierra Whack and BJ The Chicago Kid. The Dreamville rapper’s brain is just wired differently, which allows him to come up with so many interesting similes, like comparing “weed crackle like the pops on a vinyl” or when he threatens to “pull up on yo' set likе tape decks, rewind you.” This verse further proves that even in between albums and tours, JID is always in the lab. —Jordan Rose — YouTube

**Verse**: 1
It doesn't matter if it's a movie soundtrack, commercial spot, guest feature or otherwise, JID is going to spit, and he does just that on the *Creed 3* soundtrack cut “In The Room” featuring Tierra Whack and BJ The Chicago Kid. The Dreamville rapper’s brain is just wired differently, which allows him to come up with so many interesting similes, like comparing “weed crackle like the pops on a vinyl” or when he threatens to “pull up on yo' set likе tape decks, rewind you.” This verse further proves that even in between albums and tours, JID is always in the lab. *—Jordan Rose*

YouTube

**Verse**: 1
It doesn't matter if it's a movie soundtrack, commercial spot, guest feature or otherwise, JID is going to spit, and he does just that on the *Creed 3* soundtrack cut “In The Room” featuring Tierra Whack and BJ The Chicago Kid. The Dreamville rapper’s brain is just wired differently, which allows him to come up with so many interesting similes, like comparing “weed crackle like the pops on a vinyl” or when he threatens to “pull up on yo' set likе tape decks, rewind you.” This verse further proves that even in between albums and tours, JID is always in the lab. *—Jordan Rose*

Verse: 2
There are fleeting moments in life where everything gets quiet and your most complicated dilemmas finally come into focus. (Picture a late-night drive on the freeway where you suddenly have a moment of clarity about a major life decision.) 7xvethegenius’ guest feature on Conway the Machine’s "Won't He Do It" is the rap equivalent of a moment like that. Before she starts rapping, the drums fall out of the beat, surrounding her vocals in a feeling of calm. As she addresses her doubters head-on, 7xvethegenius recounts her come-up from less-than-ideal circumstances, clearly stating that she’s “bound to be the queen, it's been written.” Delivered with poise and clarity, it’s the kind of verse that’ll stop you in your tracks, even if it’s the first time you’ve ever heard her rap. Stop what you’re doing right now, go listen to this verse, and then look up all of 7xvethegenius’ other music. You won’t be disappointed. —Eric Skelton — YouTube

**Verse:** 2
There are fleeting moments in life where everything gets quiet and your most complicated dilemmas finally come into focus. (Picture a late-night drive on the freeway where you suddenly have a moment of clarity about a major life decision.) 7xvethegenius’ guest feature on Conway the Machine’s "Won't He Do It" is the rap equivalent of a moment like that. Before she starts rapping, the drums fall out of the beat, surrounding her vocals in a feeling of calm. As she addresses her doubters head-on, 7xvethegenius recounts her come-up from less-than-ideal circumstances, clearly stating that she’s “bound to be the queen, it's been written.” Delivered with poise and clarity, it’s the kind of verse that’ll stop you in your tracks, even if it’s the first time you’ve ever heard her rap. Stop what you’re doing right now, go listen to this verse, and then look up all of 7xvethegenius’ other music. You won’t be disappointed. *—Eric Skelton*

YouTube

**Verse:** 2
There are fleeting moments in life where everything gets quiet and your most complicated dilemmas finally come into focus. (Picture a late-night drive on the freeway where you suddenly have a moment of clarity about a major life decision.) 7xvethegenius’ guest feature on Conway the Machine’s "Won't He Do It" is the rap equivalent of a moment like that. Before she starts rapping, the drums fall out of the beat, surrounding her vocals in a feeling of calm. As she addresses her doubters head-on, 7xvethegenius recounts her come-up from less-than-ideal circumstances, clearly stating that she’s “bound to be the queen, it's been written.” Delivered with poise and clarity, it’s the kind of verse that’ll stop you in your tracks, even if it’s the first time you’ve ever heard her rap. Stop what you’re doing right now, go listen to this verse, and then look up all of 7xvethegenius’ other music. You won’t be disappointed. *—Eric Skelton*

Verse: 1
Defiant, commanding, and dexterous, Conway The Machine gives the impression of someone genetically engineered for Hot 97 rhyme sessions. He serves up a reminder with his latest Funk Flex freestyle. Slicing into an ominous instrumental, he changes cadences as seamlessly as he unloads hyper-specific flexes and slick death threats. He punctuates them with quips that contextualize his transition from life or death struggles to a quest for rap dominance: "Got off that hospital bed and I planned to be king/A dome shot couldn't stop, y'all niggas can't do a thing." —Peter A. Berry — YouTube

**Verse:** 1
Defiant, commanding, and dexterous, Conway The Machine gives the impression of someone genetically engineered for Hot 97 rhyme sessions. He serves up a reminder with his latest *Funk Flex* freestyle. Slicing into an ominous instrumental, he changes cadences as seamlessly as he unloads hyper-specific flexes and slick death threats. He punctuates them with quips that contextualize his transition from life or death struggles to a quest for rap dominance: "Got off that hospital bed and I planned to be king/A dome shot couldn't stop, y'all niggas can't do a thing." *—Peter A. Berry*

YouTube

**Verse:** 1
Defiant, commanding, and dexterous, Conway The Machine gives the impression of someone genetically engineered for Hot 97 rhyme sessions. He serves up a reminder with his latest *Funk Flex* freestyle. Slicing into an ominous instrumental, he changes cadences as seamlessly as he unloads hyper-specific flexes and slick death threats. He punctuates them with quips that contextualize his transition from life or death struggles to a quest for rap dominance: "Got off that hospital bed and I planned to be king/A dome shot couldn't stop, y'all niggas can't do a thing." *—Peter A. Berry*

Verse: 2
Latto's verse on the "FreakyT" remix is an absolute standout, showcasing her rap skill and commanding presence. With a confident delivery and clever wordplay, Latto takes control of the track, spitting, “Bitches weak in the knees, in them tweets, on them beats/Diamonds twitchin' like they Kai, hold my wrist up, make 'em freeze.” Latto’s energy and charisma shines through, elevating the song to new heights and also making her verse one of the most memorable of the year so far. —Jessica McKinney — YouTube

**Verse:** 2
Latto's verse on the "FreakyT" remix is an absolute standout, showcasing her rap skill and commanding presence. With a confident delivery and clever wordplay, Latto takes control of the track, spitting, “Bitches weak in the knees, in them tweets, on them beats/Diamonds twitchin' like they Kai, hold my wrist up, make 'em freeze.” Latto’s energy and charisma shines through, elevating the song to new heights and also making her verse one of the most memorable of the year so far. *—Jessica McKinney*

YouTube

**Verse:** 2
Latto's verse on the "FreakyT" remix is an absolute standout, showcasing her rap skill and commanding presence. With a confident delivery and clever wordplay, Latto takes control of the track, spitting, “Bitches weak in the knees, in them tweets, on them beats/Diamonds twitchin' like they Kai, hold my wrist up, make 'em freeze.” Latto’s energy and charisma shines through, elevating the song to new heights and also making her verse one of the most memorable of the year so far. *—Jessica McKinney*

Meek Mill’s “Dreams and Nightmares” might be one of the best intros of all time, but Kenzo B commandeers the beat and makes it her own on her emphatic On The Radar Freestyle. It takes a unique talent (and insane breath control) to make a beat that is so closely tied to Philly sound so New York, but the Bronx spitter does just that as she embodies the same get-it-out-the-mud energy as Meek on the track. “They think I do this shit ‘cause it looks cute when I’m really just going crazy for the block/And that’s a part of the reason these rap bitches scared on the gram, actin crazy when they not,” Kenzo spits. The 19-year-old rapper doesn’t flinch once and spits with the determination of an artist who’s only made it this far thanks to her wits and her unrelenting bars. —Jordan Rose — YouTube

Meek Mill’s “Dreams and Nightmares” might be one of the best intros of all time, but Kenzo B commandeers the beat and makes it her own on her emphatic *On The Radar* Freestyle. It takes a unique talent (and insane breath control) to make a beat that is so closely tied to Philly sound so New York, but the Bronx spitter does just that as she embodies the same get-it-out-the-mud energy as Meek on the track. “They think I do this shit ‘cause it looks cute when I’m really just going crazy for the block/And that’s a part of the reason these rap bitches scared on the gram, actin crazy when they not,” Kenzo spits. The 19-year-old rapper doesn’t flinch once and spits with the determination of an artist who’s only made it this far thanks to her wits and her unrelenting bars. *—Jordan Rose*

YouTube

Meek Mill’s “Dreams and Nightmares” might be one of the best intros of all time, but Kenzo B commandeers the beat and makes it her own on her emphatic *On The Radar* Freestyle. It takes a unique talent (and insane breath control) to make a beat that is so closely tied to Philly sound so New York, but the Bronx spitter does just that as she embodies the same get-it-out-the-mud energy as Meek on the track. “They think I do this shit ‘cause it looks cute when I’m really just going crazy for the block/And that’s a part of the reason these rap bitches scared on the gram, actin crazy when they not,” Kenzo spits. The 19-year-old rapper doesn’t flinch once and spits with the determination of an artist who’s only made it this far thanks to her wits and her unrelenting bars. *—Jordan Rose*

Verse: 1
The true measure of an elite rhyme-spitter is how they’re always able to find new things to rap about. Despite being in the game for three decades, Jadakiss is still consistently finding new and unique ways to conquer a verse. Kiss’ verse on Swizz Beatz’ “Take Em Out,” featuring Benny the Butcher and Scar Lip, stands out because it demonstrates how timeless the Lox rapper’s flow is, and how he still has his ear to the streets. There’s just something so hip-hop about Jadakiss rapping about throwing “the stocking over the Pooh Shiesty.” —Jordan Rose — YouTube

**Verse**: 1
The true measure of an elite rhyme-spitter is how they’re always able to find new things to rap about. Despite being in the game for three decades, Jadakiss is still consistently finding new and unique ways to conquer a verse. Kiss’ verse on Swizz Beatz’ “Take Em Out,” featuring Benny the Butcher and Scar Lip, stands out because it demonstrates how timeless the Lox rapper’s flow is, and how he still has his ear to the streets. There’s just something so hip-hop about Jadakiss rapping about throwing “the stocking over the Pooh Shiesty.” *—Jordan Rose*

YouTube

**Verse**: 1
The true measure of an elite rhyme-spitter is how they’re always able to find new things to rap about. Despite being in the game for three decades, Jadakiss is still consistently finding new and unique ways to conquer a verse. Kiss’ verse on Swizz Beatz’ “Take Em Out,” featuring Benny the Butcher and Scar Lip, stands out because it demonstrates how timeless the Lox rapper’s flow is, and how he still has his ear to the streets. There’s just something so hip-hop about Jadakiss rapping about throwing “the stocking over the Pooh Shiesty.” *—Jordan Rose*

Verse: 1
Doja Cat paints pictures when she raps, and her verse on SZA’s “Kill Bill” remix illustrates a new perspective of the story where the TDE singer croons about slaying her ex-lover. Doja comes in through the kitchen door, turning her bars into binoculars as she makes listeners feel like they’re watching the deed from behind the neighbor's fence when she accidentally shoots her ex’s new lover: “‘Cause she was seeing red, and all I saw was you.” It feels like listening to an audible novella, and one that ends in dramatic fashion as Doja closes the verse revealing that the shot “wasn’t for her,” giving SZA the perfect runway to slide back in to sing through the rest of the story. —Jordan Rose — YouTube

**Verse**: 1
Doja Cat paints pictures when she raps, and her verse on SZA’s “Kill Bill” remix illustrates a new perspective of the story where the TDE singer croons about slaying her ex-lover. Doja comes in through the kitchen door, turning her bars into binoculars as she makes listeners feel like they’re watching the deed from behind the neighbor's fence when she accidentally shoots her ex’s new lover: “‘Cause she was seeing red, and all I saw was you.” It feels like listening to an audible novella, and one that ends in dramatic fashion as Doja closes the verse revealing that the shot “wasn’t for her,” giving SZA the perfect runway to slide back in to sing through the rest of the story. *—Jordan Rose*

YouTube

**Verse**: 1
Doja Cat paints pictures when she raps, and her verse on SZA’s “Kill Bill” remix illustrates a new perspective of the story where the TDE singer croons about slaying her ex-lover. Doja comes in through the kitchen door, turning her bars into binoculars as she makes listeners feel like they’re watching the deed from behind the neighbor's fence when she accidentally shoots her ex’s new lover: “‘Cause she was seeing red, and all I saw was you.” It feels like listening to an audible novella, and one that ends in dramatic fashion as Doja closes the verse revealing that the shot “wasn’t for her,” giving SZA the perfect runway to slide back in to sing through the rest of the story. *—Jordan Rose*

Verse: 1
Kendrick Lamar's verse on the “America Has a Problem” remix is a powerful and thought-provoking addition to the track. With his trademark poetic style and cartoonish delivery, K. Dot delivers poignant commentary on pop culture and social issues. “Even AI gotta practice clonin' Kendrick/The double entendre, the encore remnants/I bop like ten men, the opps need ten men,” he raps. It's hard to pay attention to anyone but Beyoncé, but Kendrick Lamar offers some friendly competition thanks to his standout verse. —Jessica McKinney — YouTube

**Verse:** 1
Kendrick Lamar's verse on the “America Has a Problem” remix is a powerful and thought-provoking addition to the track. With his trademark poetic style and cartoonish delivery, K. Dot delivers poignant commentary on pop culture and social issues. “Even AI gotta practice clonin' Kendrick/The double entendre, the encore remnants/I bop like ten men, the opps need ten men,” he raps. It's hard to pay attention to anyone but Beyoncé, but Kendrick Lamar offers some friendly competition thanks to his standout verse. *—Jessica McKinney*

YouTube

**Verse:** 1
Kendrick Lamar's verse on the “America Has a Problem” remix is a powerful and thought-provoking addition to the track. With his trademark poetic style and cartoonish delivery, K. Dot delivers poignant commentary on pop culture and social issues. “Even AI gotta practice clonin' Kendrick/The double entendre, the encore remnants/I bop like ten men, the opps need ten men,” he raps. It's hard to pay attention to anyone but Beyoncé, but Kendrick Lamar offers some friendly competition thanks to his standout verse. *—Jessica McKinney*

Verse: 2
J. Cole is a master at speaking for the everyday man, and his verse on Lil Durk’s “All My Life” demonstrates how well the Carolina rapper can still fit heavy topics in the frameworks of his bars. What’s been impressive about the recent flurry of verses from Cole is that they sound like flows of consciousness, and he addresses that here when spitting, “Don’t even rap, I just vent to you/I’d rather that than an interview most days.” He goes on to try and advise rising artists to cherish the moments they create because “shit could be gone in an instant,” while also sending a clear message to media outlets that try to capitalize on Black death in the genre: “If you ain't never posted a rapper when he was alive/You can't post about him after he get hit.” These are the subjects Cole has become known for spotlighting, and on “All My Life” he proves that he can still find new and unique flows to carry the messages that he finds important. —Jordan Rose — YouTube

**Verse**: 2
J. Cole is a master at speaking for the everyday man, and his verse on Lil Durk’s “All My Life” demonstrates how well the Carolina rapper can still fit heavy topics in the frameworks of his bars. What’s been impressive about the recent flurry of verses from Cole is that they sound like flows of consciousness, and he addresses that here when spitting, “Don’t even rap, I just vent to you/I’d rather that than an interview most days.” He goes on to try and advise rising artists to cherish the moments they create because “shit could be gone in an instant,” while also sending a clear message to media outlets that try to capitalize on Black death in the genre: “If you ain't never posted a rapper when he was alive/You can't post about him after he get hit.” These are the subjects Cole has become known for spotlighting, and on “All My Life” he proves that he can still find new and unique flows to carry the messages that he finds important. *—Jordan Rose*

YouTube

**Verse**: 2
J. Cole is a master at speaking for the everyday man, and his verse on Lil Durk’s “All My Life” demonstrates how well the Carolina rapper can still fit heavy topics in the frameworks of his bars. What’s been impressive about the recent flurry of verses from Cole is that they sound like flows of consciousness, and he addresses that here when spitting, “Don’t even rap, I just vent to you/I’d rather that than an interview most days.” He goes on to try and advise rising artists to cherish the moments they create because “shit could be gone in an instant,” while also sending a clear message to media outlets that try to capitalize on Black death in the genre: “If you ain't never posted a rapper when he was alive/You can't post about him after he get hit.” These are the subjects Cole has become known for spotlighting, and on “All My Life” he proves that he can still find new and unique flows to carry the messages that he finds important. *—Jordan Rose*

Verse: 1
Some rap verses stand out because they’re well-written, full of witty entendres and poetic observations. Other verses are great because of their delivery, recited with passion and hunger. Tyler, The Creator’s “Sorry Not Sorry” verse is the best of both worlds. Over a '70s soul sample ("He Made You Mine" by Brighter Side of Darkness), Tyler pulls off a clever concept—running through a list of apologies, both sarcastic and sincere—as he peels back layers of his own psyche. For the first three-quarters of the verse, he plays it cool, nonchalantly running through each apology (and non-apology) until he gets to the 2:30 mark. Then the drums speed up and Tyler allows his own pent-up emotion to spill into the verse, rapping about misconceptions (and accomplishments) until he’s full-on yelling over the beat. Heart on his sleeve, he lets his voice run ragged, gasping to the finish line with an all-important final two words: “fuck 'em.” Amen. —Eric Skelton — YouTube

**Verse:** 1
Some rap verses stand out because they’re well-written, full of witty entendres and poetic observations. Other verses are great because of their delivery, recited with passion and hunger. Tyler, The Creator’s “Sorry Not Sorry” verse is the best of both worlds. Over a '70s soul sample ("He Made You Mine" by Brighter Side of Darkness), Tyler pulls off a clever concept—running through a list of apologies, both sarcastic and sincere—as he peels back layers of his own psyche. For the first three-quarters of the verse, he plays it cool, nonchalantly running through each apology (and non-apology) until he gets to the 2:30 mark. Then the drums speed up and Tyler allows his own pent-up emotion to spill into the verse, rapping about misconceptions (and accomplishments) until he’s full-on yelling over the beat. Heart on his sleeve, he lets his voice run ragged, gasping to the finish line with an all-important final two words: “fuck 'em.” Amen. *—Eric Skelton*

YouTube

**Verse:** 1
Some rap verses stand out because they’re well-written, full of witty entendres and poetic observations. Other verses are great because of their delivery, recited with passion and hunger. Tyler, The Creator’s “Sorry Not Sorry” verse is the best of both worlds. Over a '70s soul sample ("He Made You Mine" by Brighter Side of Darkness), Tyler pulls off a clever concept—running through a list of apologies, both sarcastic and sincere—as he peels back layers of his own psyche. For the first three-quarters of the verse, he plays it cool, nonchalantly running through each apology (and non-apology) until he gets to the 2:30 mark. Then the drums speed up and Tyler allows his own pent-up emotion to spill into the verse, rapping about misconceptions (and accomplishments) until he’s full-on yelling over the beat. Heart on his sleeve, he lets his voice run ragged, gasping to the finish line with an all-important final two words: “fuck 'em.” Amen. *—Eric Skelton*

Verse: 2
Over the last few years, Cardi B has tickled our fancy with elite guest verses as we await her sophomore album. Staying true to her true girl’s girl and supreme spitter nature, Cardi elevates the already cheeky standout “Put It On Da Floor” with quick and slick references to everything from Britney Spears to Denim Tears as well as an effortless delivery of hard bars that came as subs like “What they got on me? Bodies and a couple years” while twerking on her man. “These hoes don’t do enough, that’s why I always do the most,” she says at some point, and this verse, as well as its delivery in video form, prove just that. Often, feature verses—even, and sometimes especially, the costly and precious sort—feel unfinished and unmotivated with a rushed, slurred, or basic coat that’s there for the look of having the name on the track but holds little to no weight. In feature verses past and perhaps most strongly here, Cardi proves she’s putting it all on the floor every time. —Ecleen Luzmila Caraballo — YouTube

**Verse:** 2
Over the last few years, Cardi B has tickled our fancy with elite guest verses as we await her sophomore album. Staying true to her true girl’s girl and supreme spitter nature, Cardi elevates the already cheeky standout “Put It On Da Floor” with quick and slick references to everything from Britney Spears to Denim Tears as well as an effortless delivery of hard bars that came as subs like “What they got on me? Bodies and a couple years” while twerking on her man. “These hoes don’t do enough, that’s why I always do the most,” she says at some point, and this verse, as well as its delivery in video form, prove just that. Often, feature verses—even, and sometimes especially, the costly and precious sort—feel unfinished and unmotivated with a rushed, slurred, or basic coat that’s there for the look of having the name on the track but holds little to no weight. In feature verses past and perhaps most strongly here, Cardi proves she’s putting it all on the floor every time. *—Ecleen Luzmila Caraballo*

YouTube

**Verse:** 2
Over the last few years, Cardi B has tickled our fancy with elite guest verses as we await her sophomore album. Staying true to her true girl’s girl and supreme spitter nature, Cardi elevates the already cheeky standout “Put It On Da Floor” with quick and slick references to everything from Britney Spears to Denim Tears as well as an effortless delivery of hard bars that came as subs like “What they got on me? Bodies and a couple years” while twerking on her man. “These hoes don’t do enough, that’s why I always do the most,” she says at some point, and this verse, as well as its delivery in video form, prove just that. Often, feature verses—even, and sometimes especially, the costly and precious sort—feel unfinished and unmotivated with a rushed, slurred, or basic coat that’s there for the look of having the name on the track but holds little to no weight. In feature verses past and perhaps most strongly here, Cardi proves she’s putting it all on the floor every time. *—Ecleen Luzmila Caraballo*

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The Best Rap Verses Of 2023 (So Far)

20. Babyface Ray, "Ron Artest"

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19. Mali Smith, On The Radar’s “MHPG Sound Cypher”

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18. Yung Miami, "Don't Play Wit It (Remix)"

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17. Killer Mike, "Motherless"

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16. BabyTron, "100 Bars"

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15. Lil Wayne, "Kant Nobody"

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14. Aminé, "K&A"

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13. Central Cee, "Sprinter"

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12. André 3000, "Scientists & Engineers"

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11. JID, "In The Room"

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10. 7xvethegenius, "Won't He Do It"

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9. Conway The Machine, Hot97 Freestyle

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8. Latto, "FreakyT (Remix)"

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7. Kenzo B, On The Radar Freestyle

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6. Jadakiss, "Take Em Out"

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5. Doja Cat, "Kill Bill (Remix)"

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4. Kendrick Lamar, "America Has A Problem (Remix)"

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3. J. Cole, "All My Life"

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2. Tyler, The Creator, "Sorry Not Sorry"

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1. Cardi B, "Put It On Da Floor Again"

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