Wiz Khalifa, one of the most celebrated rappers in the world of hip-hop, turns 37 today and what better way to celebrate this special day than by revisiting his top 10 powerful tracks? Known for his cool, unforgettable and insane hits, Khalifa has successfully carved a niche for himself in the world of pop.
Khalifa rose to fame with his most popular hit Black and Yellow, which not only topped the Billboard Hot 100 but also earned him two Grammy nominations. Wiz then went on to deliver some of the biggest hits of the decade, such as Roll Up and See You Again, which became global sensations, staying at number one for 12 consecutive weeks.
As it’s his 37th birthday today, it’s time to get to know his top 10 songs that still resonate in people’s hearts and have earned him a huge fan base across the globe. Each track offers something different, from party anthems to reflective melodies, making his music as versatile as it is memorable. So, let’s begin.
1. See you again
One of Khalifa’s most popular and memorable songs, See You Again, is more than just a hit track, it’s an emotional tribute to beloved Fast and Furious series actor Paul Walker. Released in 2015, the track was made in memory of the star who tragically died in a car accident.
The combination of Charlie Puth’s soulful voice and Khalifa’s heart-touching rap made this song such a hit that in no time it topped the charts in 28 countries across the world. This is the track that really brought Khalifa to fame and earned him a huge fan base.
The sweet piano melody in the intro, followed by the beautiful lyrics, immediately sets the tone for the entire track. So, if you are a fan of Wiz Khalifa’s music or the Fast and Furious series, this track will definitely stir up your emotions and remind you of the healing power of music.
2. Pain addict
Another hit in Khalifa’s catalogue is his 2016-released album ‘Sucker for Pain’, known for its memorable collaborations with Imagine Dragons, Lil Wayne, Logic, Ty Dolla Sign, and X Ambassadors.
The song was released as a part of the Suicide Squad soundtrack, showcasing the raw emotions of pain, suffering, struggle and the inner battles of our daily lives that connect beautifully with people. The fusion of rap and hard rock gives it a distinct edge, making it not just a background score but the voice of the film’s antihero and anyone battling their inner demons.
Lyrically speaking, Sucker For Pain delves deep into societal burdens and feelings of isolation. You will definitely feel the weight of those internal struggles through each verse, which makes it relevant even beyond the screen.
3. Young, wild, free
Released in 2011 as part of the Mac & Devin Go to High School soundtrack, Young, Wild Free was an iconic collaboration between Khalifa, Snoop Dogg and Bruno Mars. It became viral among the youth soon after its release and got the tag of a perfect carefree anthem filled with heavy G-funk tracks that are perfect to play at any party occasion.
The lyrics are all about living life without shame, partying, enjoying the moment, living in the present and not caring what others think. It’s a song you could easily picture at weekend pool parties or on long road trips in the summer, making it the perfect anthem for those moments when you just want to relax and be comfortable.
The song was so successful that it was included in the 2013 Grammy nominations and also won an ASCAP Pop Music Award that same year. Whether you want to relive memories of your youth or find a song that matches your weekend vibe, listen to this track now and embrace the fun, wild side of life
4. Black and Yellow
Released in September 2010, the song quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The song is a vibrant tribute to Khalifa’s hometown of Pittsburgh, where the Pittsburgh Steelers and other sports teams wear black and yellow. The song not only beautifully reflects his sense of pride for his hometown, but it also has a unique sound that appeals to a wide range of listeners as it combines Wiz Khalifa’s distinctive cool delivery with East Coast and hardcore rap styles.
It charted on the Billboard Hot 100 thanks to its catchy hook and energetic beat, proving to be a standout moment in Khalifa’s career. The track’s lush production and Khalifa’s effortless charm elevated Black and Yellow above its regional roots. It exemplifies the power of hometown pride and the universal appeal of great music, serving as a classic example of how a personal tribute can turn into a national anthem.
5. Roll Up
The next song is Roll Up, which was released as a part of their debut album Rolling Papers in 2011. The song radiates a carefree vibe mixed with catchy pop and hip-hop elements.
In “Roll Up,” Khalifa assures his girlfriend of his unwavering support throughout the ups and downs of their relationship, resonating with the many highs and lows between the struggles of love and heartbreak.
Khalifa’s laid-back delivery style, combined with the song’s catchy hook and upbeat rhythmic flow, has fans going crazy. Its minimal production keeps the focus on Khalifa’s captivating vocals, adding to the track’s universal appeal. Roll Up not only showcases Khalifa’s distinctive style, but also solidifies its status as a fan favorite.
6. We own it
We Own It, released as part of the Fast & Furious 6 soundtrack in 2012, was a blistering song that marked Khalifa’s journey from an artist to a music icon. A powerful anthem of ambition and self-empowerment, the song’s lyrics deliver an inspiring message about taking control of one’s destiny and the relentless pursuit of success.
We Own It vividly reflects Khalifa’s personal growth and triumph over challenges. The song’s lyrics emphasize the importance of dreaming big and pushing your limits to overcome obstacles in your life. The music video complements the song’s themes with vibrant visuals that depict Khalifa’s rise to fame, celebrating his accomplishments with dynamic visuals and eye-catching colors.
This visual presentation adds depth to the song, reinforcing its message of resilience and personal triumph. It’s not just a song, it’s a motivating force that encourages you to pursue your dreams with determination and energy.
7. Oh My Level
Released in 2014 alongside the Black Hollywood album, Oh My Level is a song celebrating Khalifa’s rise to fame and success. The track was produced in collaboration with DJ Mustard and is a special blend of confidence and joy that reflects Khalifa’s journey from an underdog to an influential icon in the world of hip-hop.
The song bursts with energetic beats and infectious rhythm, making it a feel-good anthem that resonates with many fans. It exemplifies Khalifa’s ability to mix clever wordplay with celebratory themes, solidifying his place as a major figure in the music industry.
The track not only highlights Khalifa’s success but also underlines his unique approach to music and visual storytelling and has remained a favorite among hip-hop enthusiasts around the world.
8. Work hard, play hard
Wiz Khalifa’s track Work Hard Play Hard from his album ONIFC, released in 2012, perfectly represents the balance between hard work and enjoyment. The song soon became an anthem for those who work tirelessly in search of fun as it was released at a time when Khalifa was making his mark in hip-hop.
This track is not just about working hard, but also about celebrating your accomplishments. Co-written with producer Benny Blanco, the song has a catchy beat that blends well with Khalifa’s laid-back flow. It’s a great track that appeals to listeners striving for success while enjoying the pleasures of life thanks to Khalifa’s smooth delivery and upbeat production.
As Khalifa celebrates his 37th birthday, the song is a testament to his ability to entertain and inspire at the same time.
9. Lack of sleep
If you’re looking for a track that really reflects Wiz Khalifa’s laid-back, party-loving vibe, then No Sleep is a must-listen. Released in 2011 as part of his debut studio album Rolling Papers, the hit was made in collaboration with Stargate, and it quickly became a favorite for those who needed an anthem to live life without limits.
The sweet, mellow beats coupled with Khalifa’s catchy hook make it perfect for a night out or having fun with friends. The song’s lyrics encourage you to embrace each moment and live it without worrying about everyday pressures.
It’s a celebration of letting loose, and that vibe shines through in the music video, where wild parties and fast-paced visuals reflect the track’s high-energy, carefree spirit. Even years after its release, No Sleep continues to resonate with fans for its fun, celebratory tone and its catchy, feel-good energy, ensuring it remains a party highlight.
This track is not just about having fun, it is a reminder to enjoy life and make the most of every moment. So, if you are in the mood to escape reality and just have fun, then this is the perfect one to add to your playlist.
10. Giving medicine
Ending our list is Khalifa’s 2011 release, Medicated, which was originally released as a part of his album, Rolling Papers. With a seamless blend of soothing melodies and Khalifa’s signature relaxed flow, this song is a perfect example of his talent for creating a calm atmosphere.
What makes this song even more amazing is the production by Stargate, which blends perfectly with Khalifa’s effortless flow. The lyrics focus on taking life easy and enjoying the moment. The beat with its steady tempo complements this vibe perfectly, making Medicated a perfect track for anyone in need of a calm, relaxing tune.
As the final song on this list, Medicated shows you why Wiz Khalifa has remained a powerful force in hip-hop over the years. Whether you’re a longtime fan of his or new to his music, this track is a reminder of the artist’s unique ability to create music that speaks of cool vibes and good times.
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