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Timeless Tracks That Shaped Hip-Hop and Beyond
More than two decades after bursting onto the scene with “Through the Wire,” Kanye West, now known as Ye, has produced a catalog so influential that ranking his greatest songs remains a subjective yet endlessly debated exercise among critics, fans and music historians as of April 2026.
From soul-sampled anthems on his 2004 debut “The College Dropout” to the ambitious, genre-blending epics of “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” and later experimental works, West’s music has consistently pushed hip-hop boundaries while delivering massive commercial hits. His recent 2026 album “Bully,” which earned mixed reviews with standout tracks like “All the Love,” has reignited conversations about his legacy even amid ongoing personal controversies.
Compilations from outlets such as Highsnobiety, RateYourMusic, Billboard and fan-driven lists on platforms like Album of the Year consistently highlight a core group of tracks that blend innovation, emotional depth, production brilliance and cultural impact. While no universal ranking exists, a consensus top 10 emerges when weighing critical acclaim, streaming numbers, awards recognition and lasting influence.
Here is one widely respected synthesis of Kanye West’s 10 best songs of all time, presented in ascending order:
10. “Stronger” (2007, from “Graduation”)
West’s Daft Punk-sampled hit became a stadium anthem and a symbol of his stadium-rap ambitions. The track’s pulsating electronic production and motivational lyrics about perseverance helped “Graduation” sell over 957,000 copies in its first week. It earned a Grammy for Best Rap Solo Performance and remains one of his most streamed songs, frequently appearing in sports montages and workout playlists.
9. “All Falls Down” (2004, from “The College Dropout”)
Featuring Syleena Johnson’s soulful chorus, this introspective cut tackled consumerism, self-doubt and racial identity with clever wordplay. Its chipmunk soul production style defined early Kanye and showcased his vulnerability at a time when bravado dominated rap. Critics praise its honesty, and it continues to resonate as a thoughtful critique of material culture.
8. “Jesus Walks” (2004, from “The College Dropout”)
One of West’s most daring early statements, “Jesus Walks” confronted industry skepticism about faith-based rap while addressing social issues like violence and redemption. The gospel-tinged beat and bold lyrics helped the song win two Grammys and cemented West as a risk-taker unafraid of controversy. Its video and message remain powerful decades later.
7. “Power” (2010, from “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy”)
Sampling King Crimson, this bombastic track served as a declaration of artistic supremacy. With its orchestral swells and defiant chorus, “Power” captured West at the peak of his creative confidence following a series of personal and professional setbacks. It has been hailed for its cinematic production and remains a concert staple.
6. “Heartless” (2008, from “808s & Heartbreak”)
Auto-Tune-heavy and emotionally raw, “Heartless” marked a pivotal shift toward melodic, minimalist production after West’s mother’s death. The song’s icy beat and candid lyrics about heartbreak influenced an entire generation of emo-rap and trap artists. Its massive streaming numbers reflect enduring popularity.
5. “Gold Digger” (2005, from “Late Registration”)
Featuring Jamie Foxx’s Ray Charles interpolation, this chart-topping single blended humor, social commentary and infectious hooks. It became West’s first No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and showcased his knack for crafting pop-rap crossovers without sacrificing clever bars. The track’s cultural footprint includes countless memes and covers.
4. “Flashing Lights” (2007, from “Graduation”)
A cinematic masterpiece with sweeping strings and Dwele’s haunting vocals, “Flashing Lights” explored fame’s pitfalls through a luxurious yet melancholy lens. Many critics, including those at Highsnobiety, rank it among West’s most visionary productions for its atmospheric depth and storytelling. It exemplifies his evolution from backpack rapper to auteur.
3. “Blood on the Leaves” (2013, from “Yeezus”)
Sampling Nina Simone and TNGHT’s industrial beats, this track fused civil rights themes with personal excess in a bold, abrasive package. Its unconventional structure and raw energy made “Yeezus” a polarizing yet groundbreaking album. The song is frequently cited for its sonic risk-taking and social commentary.
2. “Runaway” (2010, from “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy”)
Often topping all-time lists, the nine-minute epic features Pusha T and a haunting piano coda where West repeatedly admits “I’m a jerk.” Recorded during a period of intense self-reflection, it blends self-loathing, apology and sonic ambition. Collider recently named it one of the greatest songs of the 21st century, praising its emotional rawness and artistic bravery.
1. “Through the Wire” (2003/2004, from “The College Dropout”)
West rapped through a wired-shut jaw after a near-fatal car crash, turning adversity into his breakthrough single. The chipmunk soul sample of Chaka Khan and gritty determination made it an instant classic. It established his producer-rapper duality and storytelling prowess, launching a career that would redefine hip-hop.
These selections draw from recurring appearances across critic and fan rankings as of early 2026. “Runaway” and “Flashing Lights” frequently occupy the top spots for their ambition, while early tracks like “Through the Wire” and “Jesus Walks” earn praise for foundational impact. Later works such as “Ghost Town” from “ye” or “Life of the Party” from “Donda (Deluxe)” sometimes crack extended lists for their introspection and guest features, including André 3000.
West’s influence extends far beyond individual songs. His production style — heavy on soul samples early on, then electronic experimentation and gospel elements — shaped artists from Drake and Travis Scott to modern trap and alternative rap. Collaborations like “Niggas in Paris” with Jay-Z and features on tracks with Rihanna and others amplified his reach.
Streaming data in 2026 shows “Heartless,” “Stronger” and “Gold Digger” among his most played tracks globally, while deep cuts like “Runaway” maintain cult status for their album context. “Bully,” released March 28, 2026, introduced new material such as “All the Love” and “Father” featuring Travis Scott, with some critics noting echoes of his classic soul-chipmunk sound alongside modern electronic touches. However, the album received lukewarm scores from Pitchfork and Rolling Stone, underscoring how West’s later output is often measured against his 2004-2013 peak.
Debates persist over inclusions. Some lists elevate “Ultralight Beam” or “No More Parties in LA” for their ensemble energy and storytelling. Others argue for “Bound 2” or “Fade” due to their cultural moments. Regional and generational tastes vary: older fans may favor “College Dropout” era tracks, while younger listeners stream “Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1” heavily.
West’s personal controversies, including public statements and legal issues, have complicated his legacy. Yet his musical contributions remain undeniable. In 2026, as he continues releasing music and performing, new generations discover these tracks through playlists, samples in newer songs and viral social media moments.
Music scholars credit West with expanding hip-hop’s sonic palette and thematic range, blending high-art ambition with accessible hooks. His use of Auto-Tune on “808s & Heartbreak” inspired emo-rap, while the maximalist approach on “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” influenced orchestral rap productions.
For newcomers, starting with the “College Dropout” through “Graduation” trilogy offers an accessible entry, followed by the ambitious “Fantasy” and experimental “Yeezus.” Playlists on Spotify and Apple Music curated by fans and outlets like Def Jam compile these essentials.
As of April 2026, Kanye West’s 10 best songs represent more than hits — they chronicle an artist’s evolution from hungry producer to global icon to polarizing figure. Whether through triumphant anthems or confessional ballads, these tracks capture the complexity that has kept his music relevant across generations.
Fans and critics alike continue to revisit and re-rank the catalog, ensuring that songs like “Runaway” and “Through the Wire” endure as benchmarks of hip-hop excellence. In an era of short attention spans and algorithm-driven discovery, West’s most acclaimed work reminds listeners of the power of bold vision and personal storytelling in popular music.
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Barclays is charting a decisive U-turn on the high street, with plans to open new branches across the country and reinstate the once-familiar “bank manager” job title, a move that signals a broader rethink of how Britain’s traditional lenders compete in an increasingly digital age.
Vim Maru, who has led Barclays UK since 2024, told Business Matters that the bank intended to grow its branch network beyond the current 206 outlets, having already paused a closure programme that saw roughly 80 per cent of its branches shut since 2019. One of his first acts after taking charge was to halt the cull, and he is now pressing ahead with expansion, though he declined to put a precise figure on how many new sites would open.
The shift comes as digital-only challengers such as Revolut and Wise make increasingly aggressive moves into the current-account market, threatening the established banks’ grip on everyday consumer banking. Rather than trying to outpace them on technology alone, Maru is placing his chips on a blend of slick digital services and genuine, in-person support, what he described as the winning formula for modern banking.
He was characteristically blunt about the shortcomings of purely automated customer service. Barclays customers, he insisted, would not find themselves trapped in an endless loop with a chatbot when they needed real help. The bank has also quietly reintroduced traditional role titles, so that customers walking through the door can once again ask to speak to the branch or bank manager.
Maru stopped short of conceding that Barclays had been too aggressive in its earlier round of closures, but acknowledged that the bank needed to reassess how it served its customers every few years. The new branches will sit alongside the shared banking hubs operated through the Post Office, rather than replace them.
Beyond the branch network, Barclays is pursuing growth on several fronts. The bank reported a record number of mortgage applications last year, with processing times slashed from 45 minutes to just 15 thanks to technology improvements that have proved popular with brokers. Its acquisition of the Tesco credit card business in 2024 and Kensington Mortgages, which has doubled in size since Barclays bought it in May 2023, have broadened the division’s reach considerably.
Artificial intelligence is also being deployed to streamline internal processes, though Maru was cautious about the workforce implications. He drew a parallel with the introduction of ATMs, noting that while the machines were expected to eliminate cashier roles, the subsequent rise in fraud and scams meant staff were redeployed rather than made redundant.
On the broader economy, Maru offered a measured reading from the bank’s unique vantage point. Consumer spending has shown resilience, with hospitality holding up well despite a period of heightened anxiety following the outbreak of the Iran conflict. In the opening days of the war, there was a noticeable surge in fuel purchases as motorists rushed to fill up ahead of expected price rises, though spending patterns quickly normalised.
With Barclays chief executive CS Venkatakrishnan having committed to investing £30 billion more in the UK between 2024 and this year, and despite persistent speculation about possible acquisitions of the likes of Santander UK or TSB, Maru said his priority remained organic growth. The bank, he maintained, already had strong momentum — and a renewed high street presence to match.
Amy Ingham
Amy is a newly qualified journalist specialising in business journalism at Business Matters with responsibility for news content for what is now the UK’s largest print and online source of current business news.
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Total deposits came in at Rs 1.66 lakh crore, up 10% from a year ago and 6.1% higher on a quarter-on-quarter basis. CASA deposits rose 2.8% year-on-year to Rs 48,751 crore, with the CASA ratio at 29.31% at the end of the quarter.
Retail term deposits saw strong growth, increasing 30.1% year-on-year to Rs 73,796 crore. Overall retail deposits, including CASA, rose 17.7% to Rs 1.22 lakh crore. Bulk deposits declined 6.9% year-on-year to Rs 43,797 crore. Meanwhile, the share of retail deposits in total deposits improved to 73.67% from 68.88% in the same period last year.
The bank reported a liquidity coverage ratio of about 131.76% as of March 31, 2026. Collection efficiency remained robust, with pan-bank efficiency, excluding NPAs, at 98.9% for March 2026, compared to 98.1% in December 2025.
Banking stocks have come under sharp pressure over the past three months, with most lenders underperforming the benchmark Nifty 50 amid a challenging macro backdrop marked by sustained foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows, escalating geopolitical tensions, and a surge in energy prices. Bandhan Bank is down 18% in the last 1 month.
The underperformance comes amid persistent FII selling, which has disproportionately impacted financials due to their heavy weightage in benchmark indices. At the same time, the escalation of the Iran-Israel conflict has triggered a spike in crude oil prices, raising concerns over inflation and delaying expectations of interest rate cuts by global central banks.
The lender has also been in the headlines after The Economic Times reported that Bandhan Financial Services is exploring exit options for its long-term investors, including GIC Ventures and International Finance Corporation.Also read: HDFC Bank Q4 business update: Lender reports 15% YoY growth in deposits, advances jump 12%
The report said the company has appointed Jefferies to assess investor interest, particularly from private equity funds. The move is also in line with regulatory requirements that mandate Bandhan Financial to reduce the promoter’s stake in the bank to 26% by 2030.
(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)
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Business
AU Small Finance Bank Q4 business update: Deposits up 23% YoY at Rs 1.52 lk cr, advances rise 25%
The bank’s total deposits stood at Rs 1.52 lakh crore as of March 31, 2026, registering a 22.8% year-on-year growth and a 10.3% increase sequentially from Rs 1.38 lakh crore as of December 31, 2025. CASA deposits came in at Rs 43,360 crore, up 19.6% year-on-year and 8.5% quarter-on-quarter. However, the CASA ratio stood at 28.4%, compared to 29.2% a year ago and 28.9% in the previous quarter.
On the advances front, gross advances stood at Rs 1.36 lakh crore, reflecting a 25.1% year-on-year growth and an 8.7% rise sequentially from Rs 1.26 lakh crore. The bank’s securitised and assigned portfolio was reported at Rs 4,290 crore, compared to Rs 6,926 crore in the year-ago period and Rs 4,689 crore in the previous quarter.
Overall, the gross loan portfolio (A+B) stood at Rs 1.40 lakh crore as of March 31, 2026, marking a 21.3% year-on-year growth and an 8% increase quarter-on-quarter from Rs 1.30 lakh crore.
Banking stocks have come under sharp pressure over the past three months, with most lenders underperforming the benchmark Nifty 50 amid a challenging macro backdrop marked by sustained foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows, escalating geopolitical tensions and a surge in energy prices. AU Small Finance Bank shares have declined 13% since the beginning of the year.
The underperformance comes amid persistent FII selling, which has disproportionately impacted financials due to their heavy weightage in benchmark indices. At the same time, the escalation of the Iran-Israel conflict has triggered a spike in crude oil prices, raising concerns over inflation and delaying expectations of interest rate cuts by global central banks.
In a separate development in February, the Haryana government de-empanelled the lender from government business after suspected fraudulent activities were disclosed.The company issued a clarification late Sunday, stating it initiated an internal review regarding two accounts in question. The bank further said that both these accounts were “duly opened after completion of all applicable KYC checks and requisite authorisations” and were in accordance with the bank’s internal policies and processes.
(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)
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