Few songs stand the test of time, notable for their infectious beats, experimental sounds, soulful lyrics, or enduring appeal that make them classics. In collaboration with Tres Generaciones Tequilaa brand that champions the journey and not just the destination, we're on an exploration to gather this year's top Get Up Anthems from these six cities: Houston, Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Miami and Los Angeles. Guided by curated panels, we delve into each city's sonic history, highlighting tracks that embody resilience, authenticity and innovation, and celebrate music's power to inspire listeners to get up and pursue their passions, in the spirit of perseverance.
The Top 10 Get Up Anthems from Chicago were created through a blend of editorial expertise, data-driven analysis, social impact, and personal emotion to create a ranked list of the songs that inspired, captivated, and empowered A. In a historical dive from 1973 to date, the playlist of the city [click HERE to play] features hometown hits synonymous with the city's rich history and culture, hand-picked by Chicago's own Twista, Vic Mensa and Dreezy, Billboard editor Kyle Denis, and moderated by Rocsi Diaz .
Did they get it right? Or was it off target?
Check out the top 10 Get Up anthems for Chicago:
10. “Kill S**t” – G Herbo and Lil Bibby (2012)
“Kill Shit” is a powerful embodiment of the Chicago drill movement, a subgenre that captures the raw and often harsh reality of life in the city's neighborhoods. The track, produced by DJ L, is more than just a song. it is a statement of resilience and survival. G Herbo and Lil Bibby's aggressive delivery and vivid storytelling resonated with a generation of Chicago youth who saw their lives reflected in the lyrics. Although it did not make the Billboard Hot 100, its influence on the drill genre and the careers of both artists is undeniable. This track acted as a catalyst, not just for G Herbo and Lil Bibby, but for the entire drill scene, that would go on to shape the sound of hip-hop for years to come.
9. “This Ain't What You Want” – Lil Durk (2013)
“This Ain't What You Want” marked a turning point for Lil Durk, both artistically and commercially. The track's dark, menacing production, coupled with Durk's introspective lyrics, delves into the complexities of life on the streets of Chicago. It's not just a song, but a reflection of the tension, struggles and aspirations that define the music scene. By capturing these elements so effectively, Lil Durk cemented his role as one of the most influential voices in Chicago rap. The track also showcased his ability to blend gritty street narratives with a more refined sound, a balance that would become a hallmark of his later work. It's a song that helped put Lil Durk on the map nationally while remaining deeply rooted in the city that shaped him.
8. “Percolator” – Cajmere (1992)
“Percolator” is a Chicago staple that exemplifies the city's rich history in electronic music. Cajmere (aka Green Velvet) created a minimalist yet infectious beat that became an instant classic on the Chicago club circuit. The repetitive, hypnotic nature of the track is a testament to the power of simplicity in music production. Although “Percolator” did not enter the mainstream charts, its impact on the house music scene was profound, influencing countless DJs and producers around the world. The track's enduring appeal lies in its ability to get people moving, a true get-up anthem that speaks to the spirit of perseverance and joy at the heart of Chicago's music culture.
7. “Kick, Push” – Lupe Fiasco (2006)
“Kick Push” is a breath of fresh air in the world of hip-hop, offering a narrative that was both unique and universally relatable. Lupe Fiasco's debut single, produced by Soundtrakk, tells the story of a young skateboarder navigating life's challenges, using his passion as a means of escape and expression. This was a complete departure from the dominant themes in hip-hop at the time, and highlighted Lupe's ability to bring new perspectives to the genre. The song's smooth, jazzy production complements the narrative perfectly, creating a track that feels both introspective and uplifting. “Kick Push” didn't just introduce Lupe Fiasco to the world. it also pushed the boundaries of what hip-hop could be, resonating with listeners who found their own passions reflected in the lyrics.
6. “No Problems” – Chance the Rapper feat. Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz (2016)
“No Problems” is more than just a hit song. it is an anthem of independence and celebration. Coincidentally the Rapper collaborated with Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz on this track from his Book with coloring pages The mixtape embodies the spirit of triumph over adversity. Produced by Brasstracks, the song's upbeat energy and infectious hook made it an instant favorite, not just in Chicago but across the country. The track's success – culminating in a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance – is a testament to Chance's unique approach to music and business. As an independent artist, Chance's success with “No Problems” sent a strong message to the industry: you don't need a major label to achieve greatness. The song resonates deeply with those who have faced obstacles and come out on top, making it a perfect addition to this list of Get Up Anthems.
6. “The Light” – Common (2000)
“The Light” is a beautiful example of how hip-hop can be both personal and universally resonant. Produced by the legendary J Dilla, the track features a smooth, soulful beat that perfectly complements Common's heartfelt lyrics about love and commitment. Released as part of his Like Water for Chocolate album, “The Light” stands out as a conscious, introspective track that showcases Common's lyrical prowess. This song had a significant impact on the Chicago hip-hop scene, as it brought out a more reflective, positive side of the genre at a time when mainstream hip-hop was dominated by more aggressive content. “The Light” not only earned Common a Grammy nomination, but also cemented his place as one of the most respected and influential voices in hip-hop. It's a song that continues to inspire listeners to connect with their emotions and express themselves authentically.
5. “Hay” – Crucial Conflict (1996)
“Hay” is a track that encapsulates the eclectic nature of Chicago's hip-hop scene. Crucial Conflict's fusion of hip-hop with country vibes created a unique sound unlike anything else at the time. The song's lush production and catchy hook made it an instant hit in Chicago, and its success helped shine the spotlight on the city's West Side. It is included on the group's debut album The Final Tick“Hay” was instrumental in expanding the boundaries of hip-hop, showing that the genre could draw from a wide range of musical influences. The song's success on the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at No. 18, is a testament to its widespread appeal.
4. “Po Pimp” – Do or Die feat. Twista (1996)
The title track from Chicago rap group Do or Die, featuring Twista and produced by The Legendary Traxster, “Po Pimp” is characterized by its smooth, melodic production and fast-paced lyrics that epitomize the Midwest's unique twist in gangsta rap. The song became a huge hit in Chicago and beyond, peaking at No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was instrumental in popularizing the “speed rap” style and bringing national attention to the Chicago hip-hop scene.
3. “All Falls Down” – Kanye West feat. Syleena Johnson (2004)
The self-produced standout track from Kanye West's debut album Dropping out of college“All Falls Down” combines inspired production with introspective, thought-provoking lyrics, with a sample of Lauryn Hill's “Mystery of Iniquity” reinterpreted with powerful vocals from Syleena Johnson. Kanye's commentary on materialism, self-consciousness and societal pressures struck a chord with listeners, both in Chicago and beyond. The song's success, which peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, cemented Kanye's position as a leading figure in hip-hop, known for pushing boundaries both musically and lyrically. “All Falls Down” is more than just a hit. is a cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with listeners struggling with similar issues in their lives
2. “Don't Like” – Chief Keef (2012)
“Don't Like” is a raw, unfiltered anthem that became the defining track of the Chicago drill. Produced by Young Chop, the song's minimalistic production and aggressive lyrics capture the harsh realities of life on Chicago's South Side. Chief Keef's delivery is unmistakably direct, and the song's hook has become a rallying cry for a generation of listeners. The impact of “Don't Like” was huge, not just in Chicago but around the world, as it introduced the music to a global audience. The song's influence is evident in the countless artists who adopted the drill sound, and its legacy continues to shape the trajectory of hip-hop. The remix by Kanye West and other artists on the GOOD Music collection further cemented its status as a modern classic.
1. “Overnight Celebrity” – Twista (2004)
“Overnight Celebrity” is a masterclass in hip-hop production and lyrical delivery, showcasing Twista's quick flow over a dramatic, orchestral Kanye West production beat. Released as part of Twista's Kamikaze The album, the song is a perfect blend of soulful samples and modern hip-hop, creating a sound that is both timeless and cutting-edge. The track's narrative of sudden fame and its pitfalls resonates with listeners, making it more than just a club hit. Peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Overnight Celebrity” was instrumental in elevating Twista's status in the music industry while also highlighting the unique style of rap that Chicago is known for. The song's impact on the city's music scene is profound, exemplifying the creativity and resilience that have always defined Chicago's hip-hop culture.
Watch the full discussion HERE and recreate the cocktails that fueled the discussion at home! And be sure to catch up on all the content for the Get Up Anthems series HERE.
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