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On Thursday, September 5, the heart of New York City’s music scene came alive as Tres Generaciones Tequila hosted an intimate dinner, bringing together the industry’s movers and shakers. Held ahead of the much-anticipated 2024 Hip Hop and R&B Power Players Award Celebration, this exclusive evening served as both a prelude to the prestigious awards and a celebration of the profound connection between music, culture, and community.
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The dinner, held in a stunning green oasis in the heart of Times Square, was graced by key decision-makers, trendsetters, and notable artists, including NLE Choppa, Toosie, Serayah, and Saint Jhn, adding to the evening’s sense of prominence. A curated guest list ensured an air of exclusivity, where conversations flowed between the stars shaping the soundtracks of today and tomorrow. The dinner also marked a toast to those shaping the future of music, showcasing the powerful partnership between Tres Generaciones and Billboard.
Rashida Zagon
As the evening began, Rocsi Diaz, celebrated host of the Get Up Anthems series, took to the stage to share heartfelt words on the enduring power of music in the community. Her speech set the tone for the night, sharing how music, much like tequila, has the power to move, inspire, and unite us, reminding everyone in the room of the shared mission of Tres Generaciones: to bring people together in celebration.
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Diaz then introduced the evening’s guest of honor, Joey Bada$$, a fellow New Yorker and Get Up Anthem participant, whose impact on the hip-hop scene has been undeniable.
Guests savored a perfectly paired, elevated culinary experience featuring signature cocktails crafted by Tres Generaciones Tequila, adding a luxurious flair to the evening. The “Trespresso Martini” and the “Tres 75,” both custom creations, perfectly complemented the sophisticated palette dinner. These drinks, like the artists in the room, were crafted with complexity and innovation, reflecting the essence of Tres Generaciones’ 50-year history of excellence. Born in 1973 to celebrate three legendary generations of distillers, Tres remains a symbol of Mexican pride, made with only three simple ingredients—agave, yeast, and water—and triple-distilled for a smoother finish.
Following the dinner, attendees were invited to descend two floors into the iconic Paradise Room, where the 2024 Hip Hop and R&B Power Players Award presentation awaited. The energy was electric as the room filled with industry titans ready to celebrate the night’s honorees. Joey Bada$$, having already captivated the dinner audience with his humility and wisdom, was honored with the prestigious Impact Award, presented by Tres Generaciones Tequila. The award recognized his enduring influence, innovative artistry, and his role in shaping the next generation of musicians and creatives.
This night, defined by intimacy, elegance, and a shared passion for the art form, set the stage for what promises to be a defining year for Hip Hop and R&B, reminding all in attendance of the cultural and creative power music holds. The Impact Dinner, like the music it celebrated, was more than just an event—it was a moment, a memory, and an ode to the voices that continue to move the world.
Continue the vibes at home and relive the night by watching Joey Bada$$’s acceptance speech HERE and check out the recap sizzle of this unforgettable evening.
Tres Generaciones’ partnership with Billboard is built on a shared mission of inspiring and uplifting communities through music and celebration. Together, they spotlight the pivotal role that both music and tequila play in bringing people together—whether through the Get Up Anthems content series, which travels city to city celebrating iconic tracks, or the Get Up Sessions concert tour, showcasing the next great generation of artists.
To keep the evening’s magic alive, try recreating the signature cocktails served at the event.
Cheers to music, culture, and continuing the celebration at home!
Izzy Nuzzo
Joey Bada$$ accepts the Impact Award from Billboard Deputy Director of R&B/Hip-Hop Carl Lamarre at Billboard’s R&B Hip-Hop Power Players 2024 event. Joey Bada$$:Can I get a yer? That’s right, you know, I’m from New York. I’m from Brooklyn, so when I yer, y’all got to yodel back. Yer! Yo listen, man, thank you to […]
Few songs withstand time, distinguished by their infectious beats, experimental sounds, poignant lyrics or enduring appeal, rendering them as classics. In partnership with Tres Generaciones Tequila, a brand that champions the journey and not just the destination, we’re on an exploration to roundup the top Get Up Anthems over this next year from these six cities: Houston, Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Miami and Los Angeles. Guided by curated panels, we delve deep into each city’s sonic history, spotlighting tracks that embody resilience, authenticity, and innovation and celebrate the power music has to inspire listeners to get up and chase their passions, in the spirit of perseverance.
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The Get Up Anthems from New York were crafted through a blend of editorial expertise, data-driven analytics, social impact and personal sentiment, to create a stimulating conversation of the songs which inspired, captivated, and energized the city. In a historical dive from 1973 to present day, the city’s playlist [click HERE to play] features hometown hits that are synonymous with the city’s rich history and culture.
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RASHIDA ZAGON
Amidst the lively whirl of 5th Avenue, where the city’s heartbeat pulses through its bustling streets and perpetual traffic, a hidden enclave of artistic fervor thrives. In a secluded studio nestled in the heart of New York City, Method Man and Joey Bada$$ converged with Billboard editor, Carl Lamarre to celebrate the city’s unmatched musical heritage. As the conversation unfolded over Tres Generaciones Tequila’s signature serve for New York City: The Trespresso Martini, Rocsi Diaz expertly navigated the fervent conversation over some of the city’s most iconic anthems.
Take a look some of the discussed Get Up Anthems for New York City:
“Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See” – Busta Rhymes (1997)
Produced by Shamello and Buddah, the beat is characterized by its sparse, hypnotic production, using subtle basslines and percussion rather than the bombastic sound typical of Busta’s earlier work. It was a stylistic departure, drawing inspiration from African rhythms and early funk influences, which complemented Busta’s smooth, almost whisper-like delivery. This shift in sound helped the track stand out on When Disaster Strikes and became a signature song in New York’s late ’90s club scene.
“Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)” – Jay-Z (1998)
Jay-Z’s “Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)” is a brilliant fusion of Broadway and hip-hop that transformed the genre in 1998. Featured on the rapper’s third studio album, Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life, and produced by The 45 King, the song ingeniously samples “It’s the Hard Knock Life” from the musical Annie. Jay-Z’s sharp lyricism, detailing the trials and tribulations of street life, struck a chord with a wide audience, propelling the track to No. 15 on the Hot 100. This song not only expanded Jay-Z’s reach but also showcased his knack for innovative sampling and storytelling.
“I’ll Be There For You/ You’re All I Need to Get By” – Method Man feat. Mary J. Blige (1995)
“I’ll Be There For You/ You’re All I Need to Get By” is a timeless collaboration between Method Man and Mary J. Blige, released in 1995. Featured on Method Man’s debut album, Tical, this track, produced by RZA, Puffy, and Trackmasters, seamlessly blends hip-hop and R&B, sampling the classic Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell duet. The chemistry between Method Man’s gritty verses and Mary J. Blige’s soulful chorus created a magic that earned them a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group, making it a beloved 90s classic.
“N.Y. State of Mind” – Nas (1994)
Nas’s “N.Y. State of Mind” from his landmark debut album, Illmatic, released in 1994, is a gritty, cinematic portrayal of life in New York City. Produced by DJ Premier, the track features a haunting piano loop and Nas’s razor-sharp lyricism, painting vivid pictures of urban struggle and resilience. Although not released as a single, “N.Y. State of Mind” is hailed as one of the greatest hip-hop songs of all time, showcasing Nas’s storytelling prowess and the raw, unfiltered essence of the streets.
“Quiet Storm (Remix) – Mobb Deep feat. Lil Kim (1999)
The original “Quiet Storm” was produced by Havoc, one half of Mobb Deep, known for crafting dark, brooding beats with atmospheric tension, a hallmark of East Coast hardcore rap. The remix, featuring Lil’ Kim, brought new life to the song, adding her fierce delivery and solidifying her as a key figure in New York’s rap scene. The production, with its haunting loop, matched the raw street narratives that defined Mobb Deep’s Murda Muzik album, becoming a favorite in NYC radio and clubs.
“Bodak Yellow (Money Moves)” – Cardi B (2017)
Produced by J. White Did It, the beat of “Bodak Yellow” was built around heavy 808s and a menacing piano riff, providing a hard-hitting, bass-heavy sound that matched Cardi B’s aggressive flow. The track was created while Cardi was still an emerging artist in the Bronx, and its minimalist, trap-style production echoed the sound of Southern hip-hop, which was dominating the charts at the time. “Bodak Yellow” became a historic hit, catapulting her from local fame to global stardom, marking a major moment in the city’s rap comeback.
“Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” – DMX (1998)
“Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” is an adrenaline-fueled rallying cry from DMX’s 1998 debut album, It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot. Produced by Swizz Beatz, the track’s aggressive beat and DMX’s ferocious delivery captured the raw energy of the streets, making it an instant hit. Landing at No. 94 during its original rollout, the anthem re-entered the Hot 100 in 2021 following DMX’s untimely passing, reaching No. 16. This track remains a testament to DMX’s explosive talent and enduring influence in the genre.
“C.R.E.A.M. (Cash Rules Everything Around Me)” – Wu-Tang Clan (1993)
A cornerstone of hip-hop, “C.R.E.A.M. (Cash Rules Everything Around Me)” by Wu-Tang Clan is an indelible part of their groundbreaking 1993 album, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers). Produced by the genius of RZA, this track’s minimalist yet haunting piano riff underscores Raekwon and Inspectah Deck’s penetrating verses. The song’s exploration of economic struggle and ambition resonated with countless listeners, encapsulating the raw, unfiltered ethos of Wu-Tang Clan and the reality of street life.
“Still Not a Player” – Big Pun feat. Joe (1998)
Big Pun’s “Still Not a Player,” featuring Joe, is a quintessential late 90s hip-hop hit that radiates smooth charisma and undeniable swagger. Released in 1998 as part of his debut album, Capital Punishment, this track, produced by Knobody and Dahoud Darien, is a masterful blend of hardcore rap and R&B. Sampling Brenda Russell’s “A Little Bit of Love,” the song’s irresistible groove and Pun’s clever wordplay captivated audiences, propelling it to No. 24 on the Hot 100. This track is a testament to Big Pun’s larger-than-life persona and his extraordinary lyrical talent.
“Dior” – Pop Smoke (2019)
Features a signature dark, foreboding drill beat with pulsating 808s and a minimalist piano loop, the 2019 record, produced byUK drill producer 808Melo, set the tone for Pop Smoke’s deep, gruff vocals. This production style was instrumental in introducing the Brooklyn drill sound, heavily influenced by UK drill music, to a wider American audience. The track’s success played a pivotal role in popularizing drill music beyond New York and was a key track on Meet the Woo and Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon.
“Paid In Full” – Eric B. & Rakim (1987)
The title track from Paid in Full revolutionized hip-hop production by pioneering the use of sampling. Eric B. sampled “Ashley’s Roachclip” by The Soul Searchers, adding a prominent bassline and minimalist percussion. Rakim’s smooth, complex lyricism was groundbreaking, moving away from the simpler rhymes of early rap and influencing a new generation of New York MCs. The song’s innovative production and lyrical sophistication helped establish the duo as legends in NYC’s golden age of hip-hop.
“Hot Boy” – Bobby Shmurda (2014)
Exploding onto the scene in 2014, Bobby Shmurda’s “Hot Boy” (often stylized as “Hot N—a”) was a nuclear hit in the hip-hop world, and throughout Brooklyn’s streets. Featured on his debut EP, Shmurda She Wrote, the track, produced by Jahlil Beats, showcases Bobby’s electrifying delivery over a beat that’s both infectious and relentless. The song’s virality was propelled by the iconic “Shmoney Dance,” which took social media by storm. Peaking at No.6 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Hot Boy” wasn’t just a hit—it was a cultural phenomenon that marked Bobby Shmurda entry into the rap game.
“Lean Back” – Terror Squad feat. Fat Joe & Remy Ma (2004)
Produced by Scott Storch, the beat for “Lean Back” was built around a prominent Middle Eastern-inspired string melody and a heavy, slow-rolling bassline that made it instantly recognizable. Storch was known for blending hip-hop with cinematic, orchestral elements, and this track was no exception. The production’s simplicity and infectiousness helped it become a club anthem. Released on Terror Squad’s True Story album, the song’s success was pivotal in keeping New York on the hip-hop map during a time when Southern rap was dominating the charts.
Watch the full discussion HERE and recreate the cocktails that powered the conversation at home! And be sure to follow along on all content for the Get Up Anthems series HERE
Billboard and Tres Generaciones Tequila are partnering to find out the Get Up Anthems of select cities, and for this stop, we’re in New York City, New York. In conversation with Rocsi Diaz, Chicago natives Joey Bada$$ and Method Man sat with Billboard’s Carl Lamarre to honor a few Get Up Anthems for New York […]
Billboard and Tres Generaciones Tequila are partnering to discover the Get Up Anthems of select cities, and the next stop is New York City. Ahead of the curated list, in this “Man on the Street,” we tapped New Yorkers to share some of their favorite hometown hits that have inspired and energized their city, including […]
Few songs withstand time, distinguished by their infectious beats, experimental sounds, poignant lyrics or enduring appeal, rendering them as classics. In partnership with Tres Generaciones Tequila, a brand that champions the journey and not just the destination, we’re on an exploration to roundup the top Get Up Anthems over this next year from these six cities: Houston, Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Miami and Los Angeles. Guided by curated panels, we delve deep into each city’s sonic history, spotlighting tracks that embody resilience, authenticity, and innovation and celebrate the power music has to inspire listeners to get up and chase their passions, in the spirit of perseverance.
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The Top 10 Get Up Anthems from Chicago were crafted through a blend of editorial expertise, data-driven analytics, social impact and personal sentiment, to create a ranked list of the songs which inspired, captivated, and energized the A. In a historical dive from 1973 to present day, the city’s playlist [click HERE to play] features hometown hits that are synonymous with the city’s rich history and culture, hand selected by Chicago’s very own, Twista, Vic Mensa and Dreezy, Billboard editor, Kyle Denis, and moderated by Rocsi Diaz.
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Did they get it right? Or were they off the mark?
Take a look at 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 Chicago’s drill movement, a subgenre that captures the raw and often harsh realities of life in the city’s neighborhoods. The track, produced by DJ L, is more than just a song; it’s a declaration 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 own lives reflected in the lyrics. While it didn’t chart on the Billboard Hot 100, its influence on the drill genre and the careers of both artists is undeniable. This track served as a catalyst, not just for G Herbo and Lil Bibby, but for the entire drill scene, which 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, paired with Durk’s introspective lyrics, delves into the complexities of life in Chicago’s streets. It’s not just a song, but a reflection of the tension, struggles, and aspirations that define the drill music scene. By capturing these elements so effectively, Lil Durk solidified his role as one of the most influential voices in Chicago rap. The track also highlighted his ability to blend gritty street narratives with a more polished 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 quintessential Chicago house track that exemplifies the city’s rich history in electronic music. Cajmere (aka Green Velvet) crafted a minimalistic yet infectious beat that became an instant classic on the dance floors of Chicago’s clubs. The repetitive, hypnotic nature of the track is a testament to the power of simplicity in music production. Though “Percolator” didn’t chart in the mainstream, 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 that is 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 stark departure from the prevailing themes in hip-hop at the time, and it showcased Lupe’s ability to bring new perspectives to the genre. The song’s smooth, jazzy production complements the storytelling perfectly, creating a track that feels both introspective and uplifting. “Kick Push” didn’t just introduce Lupe Fiasco to the world; it also expanded 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’s an anthem of independence and celebration. Chance the Rapper’s collaboration with Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz on this track from his Coloring Book 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 win 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 powerful 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 deeply 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 Chicago’s hip-hop scene, as it highlighted a more thoughtful, 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 it also solidified 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 that was unlike anything else at the time. The song’s twangy production and catchy hook made it an instant hit in Chicago, and its success helped to shine a spotlight on the city’s West Side. Included in the group’s debut album The Final Tic, “Hay” played a crucial role in expanding the boundaries of hip-hop, showing that the genre could draw on 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 broad appeal.
4. “Po Pimp” – Do or Die feat. Twista (1996)
The seminal 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 rapid-fire verses, epitomizing the Midwest’s unique twist on gangsta rap. The song became a massive hit in Chicago and beyond, reaching No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 and played a crucial role in popularizing the “speed rap” style and brought national attention to Chicago’s hip-hop scene.
3. “All Falls Down” – Kanye West feat. Syleena Johnson (2004)
The self-produced standout track from Kanye West’s debut album The College Dropout, “All Falls Down” blends soulful production with introspective, thought-provoking lyrics, featuring a sample of Lauryn Hill’s “Mystery of Iniquity,” reinterpreted with Syleena Johnson’s powerful vocals. Kanye’s commentary on materialism, self-consciousness, and societal pressures struck a chord with listeners, both in Chicago and beyond. The song’s success, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidified Kanye’s place as a leading figure in hip-hop, known for pushing boundaries both musically and lyrically. “All Falls Down” is more than just a hit; it’s a cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with listeners who grapple with similar themes in their own lives
2. “Don’t Like” – Chief Keef (2012)
“Don’t Like” is a raw, unfiltered anthem that became the defining track of Chicago’s drill movement. Produced by Young Chop, the song’s minimalist production and aggressive lyrics capture the stark realities of life on Chicago’s South Side. Chief Keef’s delivery is unapologetically direct, and the song’s hook became a rallying cry for a generation of listeners. The impact of “Don’t Like” was immense, not only in Chicago but across the world, as it introduced drill music to a global audience. The song’s influence is evident in the countless artists who have 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 G.O.O.D. Music compilation 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 rapid-fire flow over a dramatic, orchestral beat produced by Kanye West. Released as part of Twista’s Kamikaze album, the song is a perfect blend of soulful samples and modern hip-hop, creating a sound that is both timeless and innovative. 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” played a significant role 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, as it exemplifies the creativity and resilience that have always defined Chicago’s hip-hop culture.
Watch the full discussion HERE and recreate the cocktails that powered the conversation at home! And be sure to follow along on all content for the Get Up Anthems series HERE.
Tres Generaciones Tequila, a 50 year old brand introduced by the family that elevated tequila to a symbol of Mexican pride, and Billboard are partnering together for a year-long celebration of music’s transformative power to unveil the top songs that have energized, uplifted and excited six select cities, known as the ‘Get Up Anthems.’ These playlists are curated through a mix of editorial insight and data analytics, and honor the songs that define each city’s history and culture.
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In an exposed brick warehouse on Chicago’s Westside, hometown legends Twista, Vic Mensa, and Dreezy gathered with Billboard editor Kyle Denis to honor the Windy City’s rich musical heritage. Over Tres Generaciones Tequila’s Chicago Fire cocktail, Rocsi Diaz led a spirited debate on the top 10 Get Up Anthems. After a deep dive into 15 local hits, the group unanimously crowned “Overnight Celebrity” by Twista as the definitive Chicago anthem. Despite Twista’s presence on the cohort, the decision was based solely on the track’s undeniable influence on the city’s cultural landscape.
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“Overnight Celebrity,” a standout from Twista’s 2004 album Kamikaze, is more than a hit; it’s a sonic triumph, a cultural milestone in Chicago’s hip-hop legacy, and a commercial powerhouse. The track, produced by Kanye West, is a testament to the perfect synergy between Twista’s rapid-fire flow and Kanye’s innovative production, a blend that is both artistically innovative and culturally significant.
West’s production blends lush orchestration with hip-hop’s gritty edge. It utilizes a sped-up sample of Lenny Williams’ “Cause I Love You” to craft a dramatic, soul-infused backdrop that perfectly complements Twista’s breakneck delivery. The contrast between Twista’s relentless flow and the soulful strings creates a dynamic tension that propels the track forward. At the same time, the moderate tempo allows listeners to fully appreciate the intricacy and speed of his delivery.
Nationally, the track broke new ground, introducing the Midwest’s unique rap style to a broader audience. Twista’s rapid-fire technique and Kanye’s soulful production offered a refreshing alternative to the dominant East and West Coast sounds. The collaboration of these two future powerhouses symbolized Chicago’s ability to shape the national soundscape. With its themes of fame and aspiration, “Overnight Celebrity” captured the spirit of a city where gritty realism meets ambitious dreams while tapping into the mid-2000s zeitgeist when instant fame became a cultural obsession. Twista’s lyrics offered a sharp commentary on celebrity’s allure and fleeting nature, reflecting the broader shift toward the commercialization of personal identity.
Commercially, “Overnight Celebrity” was a triumph, peaking at number six on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Billboard Hot Rap Tracks chart. Its success, with over 312,000 copies sold in its first week, propelled Kamikaze to debut at number one on the Billboard 200. These achievements not only solidified Twista’s place in mainstream hip-hop but also bolstered Kanye West’s reputation as a top-tier producer, making the audience feel the track’s commercial triumph.
“Overnight Celebrity” remains a landmark in Twista’s career and Chicago hip-hop history. Its intricate production, powered by Kanye West’s genius and Twista’s unparalleled lyrical speed, created a track that was as artistically innovative as it was culturally significant. Locally, it became an anthem of Chicago’s hip-hop prowess and redefined the rap landscape nationally.
Watch the full Chicago discussion HERE and be sure to follow along on all content for the Get Up Anthems series HERE
Billboard and Tres Generaciones Tequila are partnering to find out the Get Up Anthems of select cities, and for this stop, we’re in Chicago. In conversation with Rocsi Diaz, Chicago natives Twista, Vic Mensa, and Dreezy sat with Billboard’s Kyle Denis to curate their top 10 Get Up Anthems for Chicago. The list includes songs that inspired and energized their city, by Chicago artists, presented by Tres Generaciones Tequila.
Be sure to follow the multi-city conversations at Billboard.com.
Dreezy:Wait, so we’re going to put it as No. 1 for real?
Twista:For now.
Rocsi Diaz:For now. First of all, let me tell you something: This is one city I ain’t going to mess with nobody in Chicago. I want to be able to come back and get my Harold’s Chicken.
Hey there, I’m Rocsi Diaz alongside Billboard and Tres Generaciones Tequila. We’re embarking on a journey to celebrate the profound impact of music both personally and within the community. Our mission? To uncover the ultimate Get Up Anthems for cities across the nation.
Today, we’re in the iconic city of Chicago, where the winds blow strong and the blues rhythms thrive. Thank you, Tiana. Contributing to this discussion, I’m joined by Chicago’s very own legend Twista, known for his rapid-fire delivery that earned him a world record for speed. Also, Vic Mensa, known for his thought-provoking lyrics and diverse mix style. The dub princess of Chicago rap Dreezy, celebrated for her versatile flow and work life. And lastly, Billboard’s very own hip-hop writer Kyle Denis.
Just a few days ago, we began the selection process for Chicago’s Get Up Anthems. Now it was challenging, but with Billboard’s exclusive chart data, we narrowed it down to 15 tracks, now in this bowl. These selections are up for discussion as we finalize the top 10 list and crown Chicago’s No. 1 Get Up Anthem.
All right, guys. Before we jump into the conversation, let’s go ahead and raise our glasses to the city we love so much, the WIndy City. Chi Town with this Chicago Fire drink from Tres Generaciones Tequila. Cheers!
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Billboard and Tres Generaciones Tequila are partnering to find out the Get Up Anthems of select cities, and the next stop is Chicago. Ahead of the curated list, in this “Man on the Street,” we tapped Chicago locals to help share some of their favorite hometown hits that have inspired and energized their city, including artists such as Ye, G Herbo and more! Be sure to check out the official Get Up Anthems for Chicago presented by Tres Generaciones Tequila.
Tetris Kelly:Hey, it’s Tetris Kelly with Billboard and Tres Generaciones Tequila asking locals in the Windy City what song best represents it. We’re trying to find the biggest get up anthem in Chicago. Hanging out in the streets of Chicago, now, which neighborhood are you in?
Guest 1:I live in Hyde Park.
Tetris Kelly:Tell me about the history of Chicago’s music. What is the anthem that gets this city going?
Guest 1:For me personally, it’s “Faneto” by by Chief Keef. It’s the beat, it’s the lyrics. It’s very opposite of me. But for some reason, I just really **** with it.
Tetris Kelly:What is the get up anthem for Chicago?
Guest 2:“Kill S–t” by Herb. Anytime I hear it, everyone just turns their lasers to the front and they know the first minute and a half, crazy.
Tetris Kelly:Oh you say, you know the first minute and a half, let me put you on the spot.
Guest 2:You gonna put me on the spot?
Tetris Kelly:Let’s do it!
Guest 2:[Singing]
Tetris Kelly:See, he got it! That’s Chicago, baby. Tell me what is the get up anthem in this city?
Guest 3:I am gonna say Kanye “Homecoming.”
Tetris Kelly:Oof, “Homecoming.”
Guest 4:I’m from the South Side.
Tetris Kelly:What’s the best part about the South Side?
Guest 4:Everything.
Tetris Kelly:What song do you feel like represents Chicago in the best way?
Guest 4:“Wife Er” by Spenzo represents Chicago.
Keep watching for more!
Tres Generaciones Tequila, a 50 year old brand introduced by the family that elevated tequila to a symbol of Mexican pride, and Billboard are partnering together for a year-long celebration of music’s transformative power to unveil the top songs that have energized, uplifted and excited six select cities, known as the ‘Get Up Anthems.’ These playlists are curated through a mix of editorial insight and data analytics, and honor the songs that define each city’s history and culture.
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
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In a tucked-away studio in Atlanta’s Westside, the A’s own Killer Mike and London on da Track sat with Billboard editors Damien Scott and Trevor Anderson to pay homage to the city’s musical legacy. As the deliberations unfolded over Tres Generaciones Tequila’s signature serve for the city of fAtlanta: The Batanga, Rocsi Diaz deftly moderated the passionate discussion of the top 10 Get Up Anthems. After sifting through an initial catalog of 30+ hometown hits, a consensus emerged: a tie for the coveted number-one spot. In this revered space, two tracks stand tall as epitomes of the city’s hip-hop prowess: “Player’s Ball” by OutKast and “Rubber Band Man” by T.I. Despite their release in different eras, both songs embody the city’s cultural impact and enduring influence on hip-hop.
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“There are two distinct eras in Atlanta!” emphasized the Grammy-award winning rapper as he adjusted his posture in the seat to defend the need for a tie. He explains that the first era marked Atlanta’s emergence with its own unique sound, distinguishing it from other cities like Miami and the second involved redefining that sound. “T.I.’s ‘Rubber Band Man’ is as equally important as ‘Player’s Ball’ because it defined what Atlanta was going to be for the next 20 years. And you can’t unimportant one of those for the other because they were both drastically informative of what we [Atlanta] were going to become.”
“Player’s Ball” burst onto the scene in 1993 as OutKast’s lead single off their debut album, Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, marking the duo’s arrival as pioneers of Southern hip-hop and their first entry on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number thirty-seven. Released when East and West Coast acts dominated the genre, the song helped shift the spotlight to the South, showcasing Atlanta’s unique musical identity. Its celebration of the player lifestyle and vivid portrayal of Southern culture resonated with audiences, establishing OutKast as an ambassador of Atlanta’s burgeoning hip-hop scene.
A decade later and “Rubber Band Man” emerges as a rallying cry for T.I., reflecting the grit and resilience of Atlanta’s streets. The track was pivotal in T.I.’s career, serving as a breakthrough single that propelled him to superstardom. Released amidst the burgeoning trap music movement, the song helped solidify T.I. ‘s reputation as a genre pioneer and established him as one of the leading voices in Southern hip-hop. Lyrically, “Rubber Band Man” explores themes of perseverance, hustle, and street authenticity, resonating with listeners who identified with T.I. ‘s come-up story and unapologetic swagger.
Both “Player’s Ball” and “Rubber Band Man” exhibit distinctive production styles that have garnered acclaim within hip-hop’s pantheon. “Player’s Ball,” helmed by Organized Noize, exudes a laid-back, funk-infused cadence that epitomizes the quintessence of Southern hip-hop. Its utilization of live instrumentation and soulful sampling constructs a sonic tapestry imbued with timelessness. Conversely, “Rubber Band Man,” produced by David Banner, introduces a darker, more foreboding palette punctuated by resounding 808s and haunting melodies. The track’s hypnotic cadence and atmospheric production mirror the gritty realities of Atlanta’s streets, providing the perfect backdrop for T.I. ‘s raw lyricism and commanding delivery.
Decades after its release, “Player’s Ball” remains a beloved classic in hip-hop culture. Its influence can be heard in the work of countless artists inspired by OutKast’s innovative approach to music and storytelling. The song’s infectious groove, clever wordplay, and timeless appeal continue to captivate audiences, solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone.
From OutKast’s infectious grooves to T.I.’s gritty lyricism, each song reflects the city’s rich tapestry of sounds, stories, and experiences. Through their distinctive production, compelling lyricism, and cultural resonance, these songs, although separated by decades, embody Atlanta’s spirit.
Watch the full Atlanta discussion HERE and be sure to follow along on all content for the Get Up Anthems series HERE