There’s something undeniably magnetic about Jack Harlow’s rise through hip-hop’s ranks. The Louisville native has carved out a distinctive lane in modern rap, blending confident wordplay with an accessible charm that’s made him one of the most compelling voices in contemporary music. When I first heard his breakthrough moments, I was struck by how effortlessly he balanced technical skill with mainstream appeal—a rare combination that keeps you hitting replay whether you’re analyzing the bars or just vibing out during your commute.
Harlow’s catalog represents more than just catchy hooks and viral moments; it’s a masterclass in personality-driven hip-hop. His ability to craft songs that feel simultaneously laid-back and meticulously constructed has created a signature sound that stands apart in today’s crowded landscape. From his early SoundCloud days to dominating Billboard charts, his evolution showcases an artist who understands both the craft and the culture. These twenty tracks capture the essence of why Jack Harlow has become one of hip-hop’s most reliable hitmakers, offering everything from club-ready bangers to introspective showcases of lyrical prowess.
WHATS POPPIN
This is the track that changed everything. Released in January 2020, “WHATS POPPIN” became the infectious earworm that introduced Jack Harlow to mainstream consciousness, and there’s a reason it dominated TikTok feeds and radio rotations for months. The Jetsonmade and Pooh Beatz production features that minimalist bounce that gives Harlow’s flow center stage, and he absolutely delivers with the kind of effortless charisma that makes you understand why this song peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100. What really elevates this track beyond novelty status is Harlow’s vocal delivery—there’s this conversational quality to how he rides the beat that makes every line feel spontaneous, even though you know the craftsmanship behind it is anything but accidental.
The remix featuring DaBaby, Tory Lanez, and Lil Wayne only amplified its cultural impact, but honestly, the original version captures lightning in a bottle with its stripped-down confidence. I remember hearing this at a friend’s house party right before the pandemic shutdowns, and even then, you could feel it had that special quality that separates viral moments from genuine hits.
Tyler Herro
Named after the Miami Heat basketball player, this track from “Thats What They All Say” showcases Harlow’s ability to blend pop culture references with genuine swagger. The production, handled by Boi-1da and Jahaan Sweet, has this breezy, summery quality that perfectly complements Harlow’s laid-back delivery, and the result is one of those tracks that just feels good to blast with the windows down. What I appreciate most about “Tyler Herro” is how it demonstrates Harlow’s growth as a hook writer—the chorus is simple but incredibly effective, lodging itself in your brain after just one listen.
The basketball metaphors throughout aren’t forced or corny; instead, they feel like natural extensions of Harlow’s confident persona. When he delivers lines about his success with that signature half-smile you can practically hear through the speakers, it’s peak Jack Harlow energy. This song charted respectably and became a staple of his live shows, where the crowd participation on the hook creates those electric moments that remind you why hip-hop performances hit differently when the artist has genuine charisma.
First Class
Sampling Fergie’s “Glamorous,” this 2022 single became Harlow’s first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100, and honestly, it’s easy to hear why. The nostalgic production instantly transports listeners back to the mid-2000s while Harlow’s contemporary bars keep everything firmly planted in the present, creating this perfect bridge between eras that resonates across demographics. What makes “First Class” so effective is its unabashed celebration of success without tipping into obnoxious territory—Harlow’s delivery maintains that friendly relatability even when he’s rapping about flying private and living lavishly.
The way he interpolates Fergie’s vocals while adding his own perspective on making it big shows real sophistication in song construction. I’ve thrown this on countless playlists because it’s one of those rare tracks that works equally well at a cookout, in your headphones during a morning workout, or as background music while you’re grinding through work tasks. The music video’s airport theme perfectly complements the song’s travel motifs, and the whole package feels like a victory lap that invites listeners to celebrate alongside him rather than watching from the outside.
Industry Baby (with Lil Nas X)
This collaboration with Lil Nas X became one of 2021’s defining hip-hop moments, reaching number one on the Hot 100 and generating endless conversation. The Kanye West and Take a Daytrip production is absolutely massive, with these triumphant horns and driving drums that demand your attention from the first second. Harlow’s verse here is particularly strong—he matches Lil Nas X’s boldness with bars that showcase his technical abilities while maintaining perfect chemistry with his collaborator.
What’s fascinating about “Industry Baby” is how it functions as both a celebration and a middle finger to critics, with both artists addressing their respective controversies while creating something undeniably catchy. The prison-themed music video became instantly iconic, and the song’s impact on LGBTQ+ representation in hip-hop adds cultural significance beyond just the sonic qualities. Every time I hear that horn intro, there’s this pavlovian response that makes you want to turn the volume up—it’s just one of those productions that demands to be played loud. The song’s longevity on charts and in rotation proved it was more than a novelty collaboration; it’s a legitimate hit that showcases both artists at their most confident.
Nail Tech
Released as a single in February 2022, “Nail Tech” finds Harlow reflecting on his journey with a more introspective lens than many of his party anthems. The Boi-1da, Rogét Chahayed, and Jasper Harris production has this contemplative quality that lets Harlow’s storytelling breathe, and he uses the space to address criticism, relationships, and the weird dynamics that come with fame. There’s something refreshing about hearing Harlow in this mode—less concerned with crafting the perfect hook and more focused on getting thoughts off his chest.
The verses pack plenty of quotables, but they feel earned rather than manufactured for Twitter captions. I find myself returning to “Nail Tech” during those late-night drives when you’re in your head about things, and it hits differently than his more celebratory tracks. The song’s commercial performance showed that Harlow’s audience was willing to follow him into more contemplative territory, which speaks to the genuine connection he’s built with listeners. If you’re looking to understand Jack Harlow beyond the viral moments and memes, this is essential listening that reveals the thoughtful artist beneath the charismatic exterior.
Churchill Downs (featuring Drake)
Having Drake on your album is always a statement, but “Churchill Downs” from “Come Home the Kids Miss You” is more than just a cosign—it’s a genuine collaboration that brings out the best in both artists. Named after the famous Louisville racetrack, the song leans into Harlow’s Kentucky roots while the luxurious production from Boi-1da, Jahaan Sweet, and others creates this cinematic backdrop for both rappers to flex their storytelling abilities. Harlow holds his own alongside Drake, which is no small feat, delivering verses that match the quality of one of hip-hop’s most consistent hitmakers.
The chemistry between them feels natural rather than forced, like two artists who genuinely respect each other’s craft swapping bars over dinner. What I love about this track is how it balances accessibility with substance—casual listeners can vibe to the smooth production and catchy moments, while hip-hop heads can appreciate the technical execution and subtle flexes throughout. It’s become one of those tracks I recommend when someone wants to understand what modern mainstream hip-hop sounds like when it’s done well, bridging commercial appeal with artistic credibility in a way that feels effortless.
Dua Lipa
This unexpected gem from “Come Home the Kids Miss You” isn’t actually a collaboration with the pop star, but rather Harlow’s imaginative exploration of romantic possibilities. The playful concept allows Harlow to showcase his personality-driven songwriting, and the relaxed production gives him space to be conversational and charming. What makes “Dua Lipa” work so well is how it captures that feeling of developing a crush and letting your imagination run wild with the possibilities, something universally relatable despite the celebrity-focused premise. Harlow’s delivery here is particularly engaging—he’s not trying too hard to impress, just letting his natural charisma carry the track.
The song actually led to a real-life meeting with Dua Lipa at the Variety Hitmakers event, creating this full-circle moment that added another layer to the track’s story. I’ve found this to be one of those songs that reveals more with repeated listens; initially, it seems like a lighthearted throwaway, but there’s genuine craftsmanship in how Harlow constructs the narrative and maintains interest across the verses. It’s the kind of track that reminds you why personality matters so much in hip-hop—technically proficient rappers are abundant, but artists who can make you feel like you’re hanging out with them through the speakers are rare.
Lovin On Me
This 2023 single marked another evolution in Harlow’s sound, sampling the iconic “Whatever” by Cadillac Don and J-Money. The production feels both nostalgic and fresh, and Harlow’s confident delivery shows an artist comfortable in his skin and his position in hip-hop. What strikes me about “Lovin On Me” is how it captures that sweet spot between club banger and genuine artistic statement—it’s designed to move bodies but doesn’t sacrifice Harlow’s personality or perspective.
The song’s commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100, proved that Harlow’s audience had only grown since “First Class,” and his formula of accessible production combined with charismatic delivery continued to resonate. I’ve played this while getting ready to go out more times than I can count because it has that perfect energy that puts you in the right headspace for a good night. The way Harlow’s flow adapts to the production’s shifts shows technical growth, and his confidence in the delivery suggests an artist who knows exactly what works for him. For anyone tracking Harlow’s evolution, “Lovin On Me” represents another successful chapter in a career defined by consistency and mainstream appeal without compromising his core identity.
Route 66 (featuring EST Gee)
This Kentucky connection between Harlow and fellow Louisville rapper EST Gee creates one of the most energetic tracks in Harlow’s catalog. The aggressive production and Gee’s harder-edged style push Harlow slightly outside his typical comfort zone, and the result is electric. What I appreciate about “Route 66” is how it showcases Harlow’s versatility—he can hold his own alongside a street-oriented rapper without sounding out of place or inauthentic. The hometown collaboration feels genuine, like two artists who came up in the same scene supporting each other’s success rather than a calculated pairing for commercial purposes.
The contrast between their styles actually enhances the track, with Harlow’s smoothness playing perfectly against Gee’s grittier approach. This is the kind of song that reminds you Harlow isn’t just a pop-rap crossover artist; he’s grounded in legitimate hip-hop culture and can navigate different subgenres convincingly. When this comes on shuffle, it always catches me slightly off-guard because it hits harder than some of Harlow’s more polished singles, offering a glimpse of what his music might sound like if he leaned more consistently into this aggressive production style.
Already Best Friends (featuring Chris Brown)
This collaboration finds Harlow exploring more melodic territory alongside Chris Brown, and the result is a smooth, radio-friendly track that showcases different dimensions of his musical palette. The production is lush and R&B-influenced, giving both artists space to show off their melodic sensibilities. What works about “Already Best Friends” is the chemistry between Harlow and Brown—their voices complement each other well, and the trade-offs feel natural rather than disjointed. Harlow’s willingness to experiment with different sounds and collaborate across genres demonstrates artistic ambition beyond just staying in his lane.
The song explores the complicated territory between friendship and romance, a theme that resonates particularly well when delivered with the smoothness both artists bring to this track. I’ve found this song works perfectly for those chill evening playlists when you want something mellow but not sleepy, something with groove but not aggressive energy. It’s also worth noting how Harlow adapts his delivery to match the song’s vibe—he’s not trying to force his typical rapid-fire flow onto production that calls for something more laid-back, showing maturity in understanding how to serve the song rather than just showcasing his skills.
Ghost
From Harlow’s earlier work, “Ghost” represents the foundation of what would become his signature style. The production here is more minimalist than his later hits, but you can hear the confidence and charisma that would eventually propel him to mainstream success. What’s fascinating about revisiting “Ghost” after experiencing Harlow’s evolution is recognizing the blueprint was already there—the conversational delivery, the clever wordplay, the ability to make seemingly simple lines stick with you.
This track was bubbling in the underground before his major breakthrough, and it’s easy to see why early adopters were excited about his potential. The song has this effortless coolness that defined the SoundCloud era’s best moments, before artists felt pressure to create instant TikTok moments or viral hooks. Listening to “Ghost” now feels like catching a glimpse of an artist before the weight of expectations and industry machinery changed the creative process. For deep-cut fans and those interested in Harlow’s full journey, this track is essential listening that shows his core talents were evident from the beginning.
Way Out (featuring Big Sean)
The collaboration with Big Sean brings together two Detroit and Louisville connections (via Sean’s Detroit roots and Harlow’s Louisville base) for a track that showcases both artists’ technical abilities. The production is crisp and allows both rappers space to demonstrate their flow patterns and wordplay. What makes “Way Out” particularly enjoyable is hearing Harlow trade bars with someone who influenced his generation of rappers—Sean’s impact on the melodic-meets-lyrical style is undeniable, and hearing them together creates this mentor-student energy even though they approach the track as equals.
Harlow’s verse shows him at his most technically focused, clearly pushing himself to match Sean’s decade-plus of experience. The song explores themes of success, perseverance, and maintaining authenticity despite growing fame, topics both artists can speak to authentically. When I’m in the mood for something more bars-focused and less hook-dependent, “Way Out” scratches that itch perfectly. For those exploring Jack Harlow’s music, you’ll find this track demonstrates his commitment to craft alongside his ability to create accessible hits—a balance that defines the best mainstream rap.
Talk of the Town
This track captures Harlow at his most confident, addressing his rising status in hip-hop with the kind of self-assured delivery that made him stand out. The production has a swagger to it that perfectly matches Harlow’s energy, and his flow throughout is consistently engaging. “Talk of the Town” works because Harlow backs up his claims with undeniable evidence—by the time this released, he genuinely was becoming one of rap’s most discussed figures, and the song captures that momentum perfectly. What I appreciate is how he addresses success without sounding defensive or overly braggadocious; there’s a matter-of-fact quality to his delivery that suggests someone comfortable with his position.
The hook is sticky without being overly simplistic, walking that line between memorable and substantial. This is one of those tracks that sounds great through good speakers or quality headphones like the ones we compare on our site, where you can appreciate the production’s layered elements and Harlow’s vocal nuances. For playlist purposes, “Talk of the Town” fits perfectly in those confidence-boosting, hype-yourself-up collections that we all need for those mornings when motivation is running low.
River Road (featuring Bryson Tiller)
Bringing fellow Kentucky artist Bryson Tiller onto this track creates a natural chemistry that elevates both artists. The production is smooth and soulful, giving Tiller space to showcase his melodic strengths while Harlow adapts his approach to complement the vibe. “River Road” feels like cruising through your hometown late at night, reflecting on how far you’ve come—there’s a nostalgic quality to the production and lyrics that hits especially hard if you’ve experienced that mixture of pride and bittersweetness that comes with outgrowing your origins. What works particularly well is how neither artist tries to dominate the track; it’s genuinely collaborative, with both bringing their strengths to create something greater than what either could have done alone.
The Kentucky connection adds authenticity to the track—this isn’t a random regional pairing for marketing purposes, but two artists from the same area acknowledging their shared roots. I find myself gravitating toward “River Road” during those introspective moments when you want something with emotional depth but not overwhelming heaviness. The track shows Harlow’s willingness to step back and let collaborators shine, a generosity that speaks to his confidence as an artist.
Heavy Hitter
This track brings the energy immediately with production that demands your attention from the first bar. Harlow’s delivery here is more aggressive than many of his mainstream hits, showcasing the versatility that keeps his catalog interesting beyond just the radio singles. “Heavy Hitter” works as a statement track, reminding listeners that beneath the charming, accessible persona is a rapper with genuine technical skills and hunger.
The wordplay throughout is sharp, and Harlow’s flow switches keep the track dynamic across its runtime. What I appreciate about this song is how it serves a different purpose than his chart-toppers—this is for the fans who want to hear Harlow in his bag, less concerned with mass appeal and more focused on proving his credentials. The production’s hard-hitting drums and minimal melodic elements put Harlow’s rapping front and center, and he rises to the challenge convincingly. When comparing this to something like “First Class,” you get a full picture of Harlow’s range—he can create accessible pop-rap hits and harder hip-hop tracks with equal competence. “Heavy Hitter” is essential for anyone who thinks Harlow is just a pop rapper coasting on charisma.
They Don’t Love It
This track showcases Harlow addressing criticism and skepticism with the kind of confidence that comes from proven success. The production has a defiant energy that matches his lyrical content, and his delivery carries that slight edge that makes the track feel like a direct response to doubters. What makes “They Don’t Love It” compelling is how Harlow acknowledges the hate while remaining unbothered—there’s no desperation in his defense, just matter-of-fact statements about his position and accomplishments.
The song explores the complicated relationship between artists and critics, success and backlash, authenticity and commercial appeal. I find this track particularly relevant in today’s music landscape where every artist faces immediate, loud criticism from all directions. Harlow’s approach to handling detractors feels mature and measured rather than reactive. The production’s bounce keeps the mood from getting too heavy despite the serious subject matter, maintaining that balance Harlow does so well. For anyone following Harlow’s career trajectory, “They Don’t Love It” represents an important moment of addressing his position in hip-hop’s hierarchy while maintaining the confidence that got him there.
Sundown
The moodier production on “Sundown” allows Harlow to explore different emotional territory than his typical output. There’s something almost melancholy about this track, with Harlow reflecting on relationships and success with more vulnerability than usual. What strikes me about “Sundown” is how comfortable Harlow sounds in this introspective space—he’s not forcing radio-friendly hooks or trying to create viral moments, just letting thoughts flow naturally over the atmospheric production.
The song benefits from repeated listens, revealing layers that aren’t immediately apparent on first play. This is late-night driving music, perfectly suited for those moments when you’re processing complicated feelings and need something that matches your mood without overwhelming you. The production choices here are particularly interesting, with subtle melodic elements and restrained drums that give Harlow’s vocals space to breathe. “Sundown” won’t be the song that introduces casual fans to Jack Harlow, but for those already invested in his artistry, it offers depth and dimension that proves there’s substance beneath the viral moments and charismatic performances.
warsaw
This track, named with lowercase styling that hints at its more underground aesthetic, showcases Harlow’s connection to the sounds that influenced his early development. The production is grittier and less polished than his major label singles, and there’s something refreshing about hearing Harlow in this rawer context. “warsaw” feels like Harlow reconnecting with the energy that drove him before mainstream success, when the focus was purely on creating impressive hip-hop rather than calculating commercial potential.
The technical execution throughout is sharp, with Harlow demonstrating the flow patterns and wordplay that earned him underground respect before “WHATS POPPIN” changed his trajectory. What I appreciate about this track is its lack of compromise—it’s not trying to be anything other than solid hip-hop, and that focus creates something more authentic than tracks overthought for mass appeal. For listeners exploring Harlow’s catalog through curated song lists like ours, “warsaw” represents an important contrast to his commercial hits, showing the artistic foundation that supports his mainstream success. This is the kind of track that reminds you why Harlow earned his opportunities rather than just lucking into viral fame.
SUVs (Black on Black)
The production on this track is luxurious and cinematic, matching Harlow’s descriptions of success and the lifestyle that comes with it. “SUVs (Black on Black)” works as a flex track, but Harlow’s delivery keeps it from feeling obnoxious—there’s still that relatable quality to his voice even when rapping about high-end vehicles and expensive tastes. What makes this song work is the detail in his descriptions and the conviction in his delivery; you believe these experiences because he’s lived them, not just rapping about aspirations.
The beat’s bass hits particularly hard on good speakers, making this another track that benefits from quality audio equipment. I’ve thrown this on countless times when I need something with swagger but not aggressive energy, perfect for those moments when you want to feel yourself without getting too hype. The song explores how material success changes daily life while Harlow maintains his personality throughout—he hasn’t been transformed by wealth into someone unrecognizable, just someone with nicer cars. For understanding how Harlow balances mainstream appeal with authentic hip-hop sensibilities, “SUVs (Black on Black)” is instructive listening.
Creme
This track’s smooth, creamy production (pun clearly intended) provides the perfect backdrop for Harlow’s most relaxed delivery. “Creme” is all about vibe—there’s no aggressive push for attention, just confident bars flowing naturally over production that sounds expensive and carefully crafted. What I love about this song is how effortless everything feels; Harlow isn’t straining for impressive moments or forcing complexity, just letting his natural ability carry the track. The song works particularly well for those situations where you want hip-hop without high energy—studying, working, or just relaxing after a long day.
Harlow’s wordplay throughout is subtle but effective, rewarding close attention while remaining accessible enough for passive listening. The production choices show sophistication, with live instrumentation elements that give the track warmth and texture. “Creme” represents the kind of album-deep track that separates good artists from great ones—not every song needs to be a single or viral moment, sometimes the best music just exists to be enjoyed by those paying attention. This track has become one of my late-night favorites, perfect for winding down while still wanting something with substance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jack Harlow’s biggest hit song?
Jack Harlow’s biggest hit is “First Class,” which became his first number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2022. The song, which samples Fergie’s “Glamorous,” achieved massive commercial success and spent multiple weeks atop the charts. While “WHATS POPPIN” was his initial breakthrough hit that introduced him to mainstream audiences, “First Class” surpassed it in terms of peak chart position and overall commercial impact. The song’s nostalgic production combined with Harlow’s charismatic delivery created a perfect formula for mainstream success while maintaining his artistic identity. Both tracks represent important milestones in his career, but “First Class” holds the distinction of being his most successful single to date in terms of chart performance and cultural penetration. Another major hit worth mentioning is “Industry Baby” with Lil Nas X, which also reached number one and became one of 2021’s defining hip-hop collaborations.
When did Jack Harlow start making music?
Jack Harlow began making music seriously during his teenage years in Louisville, Kentucky. He started recording and releasing music around 2011-2012 when he was in middle school, initially using the stage name “Mr. Harlow.” By the time he was in high school, he had already released several mixtapes and was building a local following in Louisville’s hip-hop scene. His early work showed promise, but it wasn’t until the late 2010s that he began gaining significant traction beyond his hometown. The release of his 2017 mixtape “Gazebo” and 2018’s “Loose” helped expand his audience, but his true mainstream breakthrough came with “WHATS POPPIN” in 2020. Harlow’s decade-plus of dedication to his craft before achieving mainstream success demonstrates the years of work and development that preceded his viral moment, giving context to the technical skills and artistic maturity he displays in his music today.
What album is “WHATS POPPIN” on?
“WHATS POPPIN” originally appeared on Jack Harlow’s mixtape “Sweet Action” released in March 2020. However, the song gained such massive popularity that it was later included on his debut studio album “Thats What They All Say,” which dropped in December 2020. The album version included the original song along with the star-studded remix featuring DaBaby, Tory Lanez, and Lil Wayne, which further amplified the track’s success. This trajectory from mixtape cut to album centerpiece to remix with major features illustrates how the song’s organic growth exceeded initial expectations. “Thats What They All Say” capitalized on the momentum from “WHATS POPPIN” while showcasing Harlow’s versatility across its tracklist, establishing him as more than just a one-hit wonder. The album’s commercial success, driven largely by the breakout single, solidified Harlow’s position as one of hip-hop’s rising stars.
Who has Jack Harlow collaborated with?
Jack Harlow has collaborated with an impressive roster of artists across hip-hop and beyond. His most notable collaboration is “Industry Baby” with Lil Nas X, which became a number-one hit and cultural moment. He’s worked with Drake on “Churchill Downs,” collaborated with Chris Brown on “Already Best Friends,” and teamed up with Lil Wayne, DaBaby, and Tory Lanez on the “WHATS POPPIN” remix. Additional collaborations include tracks with Big Sean, Bryson Tiller, EST Gee, Pooh Shiesty, and appearances from artists like Justin Timberlake on his albums. Harlow has also been featured on songs by other artists, expanding his presence across different sounds and styles. His willingness to collaborate across different subgenres of hip-hop and even into pop territory demonstrates versatility and industry respect. These partnerships have introduced Harlow to different audiences while showcasing his ability to adapt his style to complement various artists without losing his distinctive personality.
What makes Jack Harlow’s style unique?
Jack Harlow’s unique style stems from his combination of technical proficiency, charismatic delivery, and accessible personality. Unlike many modern rappers who rely heavily on melodic singing or aggressive energy, Harlow’s conversational flow creates an intimacy that makes listeners feel like they’re hearing him speak directly to them. His lyrical approach balances clever wordplay with straightforward storytelling, never becoming too complex to alienate casual listeners while offering enough substance to satisfy hip-hop purists. Production-wise, Harlow gravitates toward clean, well-structured beats that allow his voice and personality to remain central—he’s not hiding behind overwhelming production or effects. His Louisville background and embrace of Southern hip-hop influences combined with clear influences from earlier eras of rap create a sound that feels both contemporary and rooted in tradition. Perhaps most importantly, Harlow’s authenticity and genuine charm translate through his music, creating connections with listeners that go beyond just catchy hooks. Whether you’re listening through quality earbuds during your commute or analyzing his bars closely, his distinctive style remains consistently engaging and identifiable.