Killer Mike, London on da Track & More Name “Rubber Band Man” & “Player's Ball” a Tie for Top Atlanta Get Up Anthems

Tres Generaciones Tequila, a 50-year-old brand introduced by the family that made tequila a symbol of Mexican pride, and Billboard are teaming up for an annual celebration of music's transformative power to reveal the top songs that have energized, uplifted and excited six select cities. known as “Get Up Anthems”. These playlists are curated through a combination of editorial insights and data analytics and honor the songs that define each city's history and culture.

_______________

In a hidden studio on Atlanta's Westside, Killer Mike and London on da Track sat down with Billboard editors Damien Scott and Trevor Anderson to pay tribute to the city's musical heritage. As the discussions unfolded Tres Generaciones TequilafAtlanta: The Batanga's signature service for the city, Rocsi Diaz expertly moderated the passionate discussion of the top 10 Get Up Anthems. After an initial list of 30+ hometown hits, a consensus emerged: a tie for the coveted number one spot. In this venerable space, two tracks stand tall as epitomes of the city's hip-hop prowess: OutKast's “Player's Ball” and TI's “Rubber Band Man.” Despite being released in different eras, both songs embody the cultural impact and the city's lasting influence on hip-hop.

“There are two different seasons in Atlanta!” the Grammy-winning rapper pointed out as he adjusted his posture in the seat to defend the need for a draw. He explains that the first era marked the emergence of Atlanta with its own unique sound, differentiating it from other cities like Miami, and the second was about redefining that sound. “TI's 'Rubber Band Man' is just as important as 'Player's Ball' because it defined what Atlanta would be for the next 20 years. And you can't be trivial to each other because they were both drastically informative about what we [Atlanta] they were going to happen.”

“Player's Ball” burst onto the scene in 1993 as OutKast's lead single from their debut album, Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, marking the duo's arrival as Southern hip-hop pioneers and their first entry on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number thirty-seven. Released when the East and West coasts dominated the genre, the song helped turn the spotlight on the South, highlighting Atlanta's unique musical identity. The celebration of the player lifestyle and vivid depiction of Southern culture resonated with audiences, establishing OutKast as ambassadors for Atlanta's burgeoning hip-hop scene.

A decade later, “Rubber Band Man” emerges as a rallying cry for TI, reflecting the grit and resilience of Atlanta's streets. The track was pivotal in TI's career, serving as a breakthrough single that propelled him to superstardom. Released within the ever-growing trap music movement, the song helped cement TI's reputation as a pioneer of the genre and established him as one of the leading voices in southern hip-hop. Lyrically, “Rubber Band Man” explores themes of tenacity, hustle and street authenticity, resonating with listeners who identified with TI's history and unapologetic hustle.

Both “Player's Ball” and “Rubber Band Man” feature distinct production styles that have earned them recognition in the hip-hop pantheon. “Player's Ball,” helmed by Organized Noize, exudes a laid-back, funk beat that epitomizes quintessential Southern hip-hop. The use of live instruments and inspired sampling constructs a sonic tapestry imbued with timelessness. In contrast, the David Banner-produced “Rubber Band Man” introduces a darker, more foreboding palette characterized by resonant 808s and haunting melodies. The track's hypnotic beat and atmospheric production reflect the harsh realities of the Atlanta streets, providing the perfect backdrop for TI's raw lyricism and commanding performance.

Decades after its release, “Player's Ball” remains a beloved classic in hip-hop culture. His influence can be heard in the work of countless artists inspired by OutKast's innovative approach to music and storytelling. The song's infectious groove, clever wordplay and timeless appeal continue to captivate audiences, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone.

From OutKast's infectious grooves to TI's rugged lyricism, each song reflects the city's rich tapestry of sounds, stories and experiences. Through distinct production, compelling lyricism, and cultural resonance, these songs, though separated by decades, embody the spirit of Atlanta.

Watch the full Atlanta discussion HERE and be sure to watch all the content for the Get Up Anthems series HERE