2023’s Rap Video Roundup: These Are the Best Music Videos of the Year!
From Nicki Minaj to Lil Durk, 2023 saw the release of a some ground breaking visuals. Here are the best rap music videos of the year.
By D.M.Dec. 27 2023, Published 11:46 a.m. ET
Hip-hop had a big year in 2023, with Drake and Travis Scott landing on Spotify’s list of Top 10 most streamed artists globally.
The year also brought releases from Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, Offset, and Kendrick Lamar. Accompanying the songs are music videos that perfectly pair with the provoking lyrics.
These videos serve as a testament to the continual innovation and creativity within the world of rap and often pay homage to other aspects of Black culture.
From internet-breaking concepts to narrative ingenuity, the rap music videos released in 2023 set a new standard for visual storytelling. Here are some of the best videos from the bunch.
“The Hillbillies” by Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem
Cousins Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem reunited in March for “The Hillbillies,” a song produced by Surf Gang’s lead producer EvilGiane. The video, directed by Neal Farmer, Kendrick and Keem travel to various spots across the globe. It also features a cameo from Tyler the Creator, rocking a Camp Flog Gnaw button – seemingly confirming the return of the music festival.
“All My Life” — Lil Durk and J. Cole
Lil Durk and J. Cole appear in the "All My Life" music video.
Lil Durk’s “All My Life” is the rapper’s biggest song to date, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track, which features J. Cole, is filled with poignant lyrics that showcase Durk’s growth as an artist and person.
“I decided I had to finish, but the media called me a menace,” he raps. “I done sat with the mayor and politicians, I'm tryna change the image.”
“Jealousy” — Cardi B and Offset
On-again, off-again couple Cardi B and Offset teamed up for a rap collaboration that fans can’t get enough of.
The music video for “Jealousy,” which has raked up more than 24 million views, is an ode to the 2001 film Baby Boy. Cardi embodies Taraji P. Henson’s character, Yvette while Offset plays Jody – a role originally played by Tyrese.
“They ate tf down,” one fan said. “The video was all that, the visuals, the bars, the whole family. I love Cardi and Offset's musical chemistry.”
“Paint The Town Red” — Doja Cat
Doja Cat appears in "Paint The Town Red" Music Video
Doja Cat proved that she is one of the most creative rappers around with the release of the music video for “Paint The Town Red.”
Doja rides a giant horned creature, dances with the grim reapers, and plays with raw meat in the video, which, by the way, has been viewed more than 153 million times on YouTube.
“Creepin’ (Remix)” by Metro Boomin, The Weeknd, 21 Savage, and Diddy
“Creepin” may have been released in December 2022, but the remix and music video for the song did not come until March of 2023. Along with the gripping visuals, the video featured an appearance and verse from Diddy.
“Barbie World” by Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice
Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice appear in "Barbie World" music video.
Few rap music videos released in 2023 were as colorful as Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice’s “Barbie World” visual. The rappers play real-life Barbie dolls in the clip, equipped with pink jet skis, a mansion, and the iconic Barbie convertible.
The song marked the second collaboration by Nicki and Ice Spice, as “Princess Diana” was released in April.
“Cobra” by Megan Thee Stallion
Megan returned from her hiatus in November, with the release of her hit song “Cobra.”
The single came just months after rapper Tory Lanez was sentenced to 10 years in prison for shooting the Houston native after a party in 2020.
Megan doesn’t hold back on the song. She raps about thoughts of depression, suicide, and infidelity in a past relationship. The video shows Megan shedding her own skin, symbolizing her musical metamorphosis.
The author’s content and opinions have not been pre-reviewed, approved or endorsed by Discover.
