The 10 Best Naughty By Nature Songs of All-Time
Naughty By Nature, an American hip-hop trio from East Orange, New Jersey, has made music for over 25 years. With hits like “O.P.P.,” “Hip Hop Hooray,” and “Cotton Eye Joe,” they are one of the most well-known and loved rap groups in history. They are also known for their positive and uplifting messages, which is a refreshing change in the often-violent world of hip hop.
10. We Could Do It (1999)
This song was featured on the film “The Wood” soundtrack and showcased Naughty By Nature’s signature sound and Big Pun’s lyrical prowess. The lyrics are about two friends who are determined to make it in the music industry, no matter what obstacles life throws their way.
9. Everything’s Gonna Be Alright
The ninth-best Naughty by Nature song of all time is “Everything’s Gonna Be Alright.” Released in 1991 on their debut album, the track samples The O’Jays’ 1973 hit of the same name. An uptempo song with a positive message, it was one of the group’s earliest hits and helped establish them as one of the most popular rap groups of the early 1990s.
8. Uptown Anthem (1991)
The song was written by Treach, Vin Rock, and DJ Kay Gee. The song is about the trio’s experiences in their hometown of East Orange, New Jersey. The first verse pays homage to local legends, including Queen Latifah and 2Pac. The second verse recalls the group’s days as street performers, while the third verse speaks to the dangers of life in the inner city. The song was a hit, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The accompanying music video was directed by Spike Lee and filmed in East Orange. It features cameo appearances by Queen Latifah, Eazy-E, and Zhane.
7. Pin the Tail on the Donkey (1991)
This playful track takes shots at numerous people and things, including MC Hammer, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Vanilla Ice. The song’s official music video was nominated for Best Rap Video at the 1992 MTV Video Music Awards. The song describes the trio’s rise to fame and how they plan to take down their rivals.
6. Jamboree (1999)
This upbeat and fun song was featured on the 1999 album Nineteen Naughty Nine: Nature’s Fury. It peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2000. The lyrics are about having a good time and enjoying life. The catchy chorus will have you singing along in no time. Naughty By Nature’s signature sound makes this one a classic.
5. Yoke the Joker (1991)
The first single from Naughty by Nature’s 1991 album, Naughty by Nature, “Yoke the Joker” was a dark and serious track about the dangers of drugs. The song was produced by D.J. Premier and featured vocals from fellow East Orange native Apache. It is about a young man’s struggles with addiction and features lyrics like, “I’m at war with the bottle/It won’t let me be/I’m at war with the powder/That ain’t make me free.”
4. Holiday (1999)
The fifth spot on this list of the 10 best Naughty By Nature songs is their 1999 hit, “Holiday.” This song was featured on their album Nineteen Naughty Nine: Nature’s Fury, and it quickly became a fan favorite. With its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics, it’s easy to see why it is so popular. The lyrics of “Holiday” are about celebrating life and enjoying the moment. The song is a perfect choice for parties and celebrations, and it’s sure to get everyone on their feet dancing. Phiness’ vocals add an extra layer of excitement to the song, making it even more fun to listen to. If you’re looking for a song to get you in the mood to celebrate, “Holiday” is the one to choose.
3. O.P.P. (1991)
“O.P.P.” is one of Naughty by Nature’s most well-known and well-loved songs. Released in 1991 on their album Naughty by Nature, the song was an instant hit, topping the charts in the United States. The song’s lyrics are about the joys of s*x and proudly proclaiming one’s “other people’s p***y” conquests. It’s a fun, upbeat song that’s sure to get your party started.
2. Feel Me Flow (1995)
“Feel Me Flow” is one of the most popular songs by the American hip hop trio Naughty By Nature. It was released as a single in 1995 and appeared on their third studio album, Poverty’s Paradise. The song samples “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. The song peaked at number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). It has been featured in various films and television shows, including 8 Mile. In a 2013 interview, group member Treach said that “Feel Me Flow” is “one of the most slept-on records ever.”
1. Hip Hop Hooray (1993)
Released in 1993, “Hip Hop Hooray” is considered one of the best songs by Naughty by Nature. The song was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group. The upbeat track samples “Amen, Brother” by The Winstons and celebrates the history and culture of hip hop music. The song is about the trio’s love for hip hop and how it has positively affected their lives. It is a feel-good anthem that is still popular today.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the best Naughty by Nature songs of all time. The trio has released many hits over the years, each unique sound and message. Whether you’re a fan of hip hop or not, these songs are well worth a listen. So crank up the volume and get ready to party.