5 rap videos that changed the game in 2016

Rae Sremmurd - Photo Credit Jonell Whitt via Steed Media
Rae Sremmurd – Photo Credit Jonell Whitt via Steed Media

Along with singles, artwork, and features, music videos still hold weight in today’s musical scenery. Music videos from the past such as Missy Elliot’s “I Can’t Stand the Rain,” and Kanye West’s “Touch The Sky” are visuals that pushed the culture forward. 2016 saw tons of artists attempting this same feat. Take a look at the rap videos that changed the game in 2016.

Rae Sremmurd ft. Gucci Mane – “Black Beatles”


The pandemonium that ensued when “Black Beatles” was released proved that videos are still important in music. Rae Sremmurd inspired everyone to attempt “The Mannequin Challenge,” and rage out afterwards. And Gucci Mane’s verse was pretty good too.

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DJ Khaled ft. Jay-Z and Future – “I Got the Keys”


The Godfather trilogy must have been the aim for director Daniel Kaufman for the “I Got the Keys” video. Our favorite rap superstars donned in suits? No brainer. This video may inspire other artists to suit up before the action is called.

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J Cole – “False Prophets”

J Cole has mastered the art of the surprise. Who would have thought to include music videos inside of a documentary? “False Prophets” takes us in the mundane yet colorful world of J. Cole and his thoughts on music today. The end of the video also features a funny interaction with a man whose obviously been on set all day.

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Big Sean- “Bounce Back”

Big Sean’s video is like a 3:46 unveiling of an art museum. The warm colors and various camera angles give you an inside look as to where Big Sean and the culture of rap videos is headed visually.

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Kanye West- “Fade”

“Fade” was probably the most impactful rap video of 2016. Kanye West strategically removed himself from this video and allowed Teyana Taylor to showcase her exceptional dancing abilities and impeccable physique. This is another example of visual perfection at its finest.

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