Although competition in award shows are usually still, Hip-Hop artists have an even tougher time breaking through just to get a nomination. Common and John Legend’s Oscar win for “Glory” last night had the Hip-Hop community rejoicing, partially for the simple fact that such an occasion isn’t the norm. It’s the exception.
Don’t believe us? Take a look at all the Hip-Hop songs that won big time awards outside the rap category we could think of.
50 Cent – “In Da Club”
Billboard Music Song of the Year (2003)
Fiddy is still salty he missed his Grammy night shine. Given this record’s decade-plus dominance, it’s hard to truly fault him.
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Photo: WENN
Erykah Badu ft. Common – “Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip-Hop)”
Black Reel Award for Best Original or Adapted Song (2002)
When did you fall in love in Hip-Hop? This former couple told us it was never too late to admit it.
Outkast — “Hey Ya!”
MTV Europe Music Award for Best Song (2004)
Andre Three Stacks’ genre-bending jam hit a nice mark overseas when it dropped.
Jay-Z ft. Kanye West & Rihanna – “Run This Town”
People’s Choice Awards For Favorite Music Collaboration (2009)
This was the inaugural year this category was introduced and Roc Nation ran it.
Three 6 Mafia – “It’s Hard out Here for a Pimp”
Academy Award for Best Original Song (2005)
The Mafia Six milked this rare opportunity for all it was worth (Adventures in Hollyhood anyone?) as they should have.
Eminem ft. Rihanna “Love The Way You Lie”
People’s Choice Awards For Favorite Song & Favorite Music Video (2010)
It was Mission Impossible trying to escape this joint upon it’s release. Hard to believe it didn’t make good on more of its nominations.
Kardinal Offishall ft. – “Dangerous”
Juno Award for Single of the Year (2009)
After countless years of putting in work, Mr. Kardinal finally got some respect from his Canada homeland.
Will Smith – “Men In Black”
MTV Movie Award for Best Song from a Movie (1998)
This Grammy Award-winner (Best Rap Solo Performance) took home a Moonman at the height of the award show’s dominance.
Eminem – “Lose Yourself”
Academy Award for Best Original Song (2002)
Simply put, this is one the best Hip-Hop songs to ever hit the commercial front and first Oscar-winning rap song.
Usher ft. Lil Jon & Ludacris – “Yeah!”
Billboard Music Song of the Year (2004)
While rap music is already scarce amongst rap winners, crunk is virtually nonexistent. Except, here.
Outkast – Speakerboxxx/The Love Below
Grammy Award for Album of the Year (2004)
Never mind just one song. The Aquemini twins have the only Hip-Hop LP to ever nab Grammy Award for Album of the Year.
In addition to its Oscar win, Common and John Legend’s “Glory” also took home a Golden Globe Award, Critics’ Choice Movie Awards, and African-American Film Critics and Georgia Film Critics Association honors. A classic from the heart of Selma, Alabama.
