Kidz Bops: These Rappers Showed Love to Their Little Ones With Heartfelt Lyrics
Parenting is not for the faint of heart and a few rappers reflect on that in songs dedicated to their children. Here are a few of them!
By S.Y.Dec. 14 2023, Published 7:35 p.m. ET
Rappers are especially known for their love of flashy, material things.
Once in a while, though, rappers break away from their hard-core lyrics to show their gentler side with a song about their kid.
Here are rappers who have reflected on the beauty — and challenges — of being parents in their songs. But before you scroll, you better grab some tissues.
Will Smith — "Just The Two Of Us"
Will Smith is a hip-hop OG and one of the first rappers to deliver a memorable song to his child through his art form. In "Just the Two of Us," the Fresh Prince samples Grover Washington, Jr. and Bill Withers's song, which has the same classic name.
The song highlights a more vulnerable side of him that celebrities are more hesitant to show in commercial projects. Also, the opening line of the song doesn't get any more tear-jerking.
Jay-Z — "Glory"
Jay-Z is often praised for his rise from New York's Marcy projects to his ascent as one of hip-hop's living legends.
The now father of three released "Glory" in 2012, shortly after Blue Ivy Carter was born, and the New Yorker, who was well known then for his stern demeanor, did not shy away from showing a softer, more nurturing side. These kids will do that to you. The song also featured Blue, who was only a tiny tot then.
Lauryn Hill — "Zion"
Lauryn Hill is a trailblazer known for her husky voice, and her iconic former group, The Fugees.
To celebrate the birth of her son Zion Marley, Lauryn penned the poignant song "Zion," released on her groundbreaking album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.
In the six-minute song, she opens up about her journey to motherhood and the ebbs, flows, and sacrifices she made along the way. Zion is now a parent, which is kind of a full-circle moment.
DMX — "Letter to My Son (Call Your Father)"
At the peak of his career, the late, great DMX was known for being rough around the edges. But deep down, the New Yorker had a big heart, especially when it came to his kids.
In his song "Letter to My Son (Call Your Father)," DMX took a more emotionally charged approach to his storytelling and penned a heartfelt message to his son, Xavier.
In the song, DMX also addressed his imperfections as a father and also expressed regret for not being more present in his son's life.
Kanye "Ye" West — "Only One"
Kanye West is known for being contentious but he's not scared to be vulnerable, especially when it comes to his kids.
In "Only One" Kanye gives a unique perspective on fatherhood and the enduring bond between parent and child. The memorable and soulful ballad features Sir Paul McCartney.
The single highlights a softer, more introspective side of the Chicago rapper.
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