When discussing the best songs of Top5, we’re diving into the catalog of one of Toronto’s most influential drill artists who helped shape the city’s modern rap landscape. Top5, known for his raw energy and unapologetic street narratives, has built a discography that resonates with authenticity and reflects the realities of his environment. His music carries the weight of lived experience, blending aggressive delivery with surprisingly melodic moments that showcase his versatility as an artist. From his breakthrough tracks to his more recent releases on the Pedro Activated album, Top5 has consistently delivered music that captures the essence of Toronto’s drill scene while carving out his own distinctive sound.
The Toronto drill movement has produced several notable artists, but Top5’s approach stands out for its directness and emotional intensity. His production choices—often featuring dark, menacing beats with hard-hitting 808s—create the perfect backdrop for his storytelling. Whether he’s reflecting on loss, celebrating success, or addressing his detractors, Top5 brings an unmistakable authenticity that has earned him a dedicated following. Let’s explore the tracks that define his career and showcase why he remains one of the most talked-about figures in Canadian hip-hop.
2 Cases
Opening with one of the standout tracks from Pedro Activated, “2 Cases” immediately establishes the album’s tone with its aggressive production and Top5’s characteristic delivery. The track features a menacing instrumental with layered synths and punchy drums that give Top5 plenty of room to showcase his flow versatility. Lyrically, he addresses the street politics and legal troubles that have become recurring themes throughout his career, delivering each bar with conviction that makes it clear these aren’t just rap lyrics—they’re lived experiences. The production quality on this track is particularly noteworthy, with crisp mixing that allows every element to shine without overwhelming the vocal performance.
21 Questions
Offering a different flavor from his typical output, “21 Questions” finds Top5 exploring more introspective territory while maintaining his signature edge. The track’s title nods to the classic 50 Cent record, but Top5 makes it entirely his own with updated production that blends melodic elements with the hard-hitting drums his fans expect. His vocal delivery alternates between rapid-fire verses and more measured, contemplative moments that showcase his artistic growth. The song demonstrates Top5’s ability to create hooks that stick with you long after the track ends, a skill that separates him from many of his contemporaries in the drill scene.
Drill Some More
Released in 2021, “Drill Some More” became one of Top5’s defining tracks and remains a fan favorite that encapsulates everything that makes his music compelling. The production is absolutely relentless, with a dark, atmospheric beat that feels like it’s constantly building tension throughout the entire track. Top5’s delivery matches the intensity of the instrumental perfectly, riding the pocket with precision while delivering bars that are both threatening and technically impressive. This track really showcases his understanding of what makes drill music effective—it’s not just about aggression, but about creating an atmosphere that pulls listeners into his world. The mixing on this track deserves special mention, with the bass hitting hard enough to rattle speakers while keeping the vocals clear and present.
Heard of Me
“Heard of Me” serves as an introduction for those unfamiliar with Top5’s work, functioning almost as a mission statement about his place in Toronto’s rap hierarchy. Released in 2020, this track finds him confidently asserting his influence while addressing those who doubted his staying power in the industry. The production features a hypnotic loop that creates the perfect backdrop for Top5’s boastful but earned confidence, with 808s that hit with visceral impact. What makes this track particularly effective is how Top5 balances braggadocio with self-awareness, acknowledging his journey while making it clear he’s not finished climbing. For anyone exploring quality music experiences, this track provides an excellent test of your audio setup’s bass response and clarity.
Demons
Going back to 2019, “Demons” represents an earlier chapter in Top5’s career when he was still establishing his sound and finding his artistic voice. The track features darker, more introspective production than some of his later work, with haunting melodies that complement the serious subject matter. Top5 addresses internal struggles and external pressures with a vulnerability that he doesn’t always show in his music, making this one of his most emotionally resonant tracks. The way he rides the beat demonstrates the raw talent that would later be refined into the polished delivery heard on Pedro Activated. This track is essential listening for understanding Top5’s artistic evolution and the experiences that shaped his perspective.
With The Mandem
“With The Mandem” celebrates loyalty and brotherhood, themes that run throughout Top5’s entire catalog but are explored with particular depth on this track. The production has an almost celebratory feel despite maintaining the dark edge that characterizes most of his work, with melodic elements that make this one of his more accessible tracks. Top5’s delivery conveys genuine affection for his crew while making it clear that the bonds he’s discussing were forged through shared hardship. The track works equally well as a statement of solidarity and as a warning to those who might consider crossing his circle, showcasing Top5’s ability to layer multiple meanings into his music.
Drop Shit
Another highlight from Pedro Activated, “Drop Shit” exemplifies Top5’s ability to create tracks that hit hard both sonically and lyrically. The production is sparse but effective, with minimal elements arranged to maximum impact—exactly what you want when testing out premium audio equipment. Top5’s flow on this track is particularly impressive, as he navigates the beat with effortless precision while delivering quotable bars that have become fan favorites. The track’s energy never lets up, maintaining intensity from the opening bars to the final seconds, making it a staple in any Top5 playlist.
Half Of Dis
Released as a standalone single in 2021, “Half Of Dis” showcases Top5’s growth as both a rapper and songwriter. The production features layered instrumentation that creates a fuller, more complex soundscape than some of his earlier work, with melodic elements that complement his increasingly refined vocal delivery. Lyrically, Top5 reflects on success and what he’s sacrificed to achieve it, offering listeners a glimpse into the costs of the lifestyle he portrays in his music. The mixing is exceptional, with each element sitting perfectly in the mix and the vocal delivery crystal clear despite the dense instrumental arrangement.
Steppaz
Featured on the Canada’s Most Wanted compilation from 2021, “Steppaz” finds Top5 collaborating within the broader Toronto drill scene while maintaining his distinctive voice. The track’s production is aggressive and forward-moving, perfectly matching its title with relentless energy that demands attention. Top5’s verse stands out for its technical precision and the confidence with which he delivers each bar, proving he can hold his own alongside other prominent voices in Canadian hip-hop. This track represents an important moment in documenting the Toronto drill scene’s collective strength and the community that supports these artists.
Your Homie
“Your Homie” takes a more confrontational approach, with Top5 addressing fake friends and fair-weather supporters who only show up when things are going well. The production features a menacing instrumental that perfectly complements the track’s aggressive tone, with hard-hitting drums and dark melodic elements creating an ominous atmosphere. His delivery is particularly pointed on this track, with every bar feeling like a direct message to specific individuals rather than general posturing. The raw emotion in his voice elevates the track beyond typical diss records, making it feel personal and urgent.
Movie
Released in 2021, “Movie” showcases Top5’s ability to create cinematic narratives within the constraints of a single track. The production features dramatic strings and atmospheric elements that create a sense of scale and importance, while Top5’s storytelling paints vivid pictures of the life he’s lived and witnessed. His flow adapts to the expansive production, with moments of rapid-fire delivery contrasting with more measured, emphatic statements that hit like punctuation marks. This track demonstrates why Top5 has remained relevant in Toronto’s competitive rap scene—he understands how to create moments that feel larger than life while staying grounded in authentic experience.
Died With a 30
From the Cronem project released in 2022, “Died With a 30” represents some of Top5’s most mature work, both thematically and sonically. The production is refined without losing the edge that defines his sound, featuring crisp percussion and atmospheric elements that create space for Top5’s vocals to command attention. The title references street life and the ever-present danger that characterizes the environment he describes throughout his music. His delivery on this track shows notable growth in technical ability, with complex rhyme schemes delivered effortlessly over the intricate beat. For fans who appreciate the technical aspects of music production, this track offers plenty to dissect and appreciate.
First Time
“First Time” explores the experiences and emotions that come with navigating new territory, whether in relationships, success, or street situations. The production features melodic elements that give the track a different feel from Top5’s hardest drill records, though it maintains enough edge to fit comfortably within his catalog. His vocal performance shows versatility, moving between sung melodies and rapped verses with ease, demonstrating growth as an artist willing to experiment with different approaches. The track’s relatability makes it accessible to listeners who might not typically gravitate toward drill music, potentially expanding Top5’s audience beyond his core fanbase.
Murder She Wrote
Taking inspiration from the classic reggae riddim while flipping it for a Toronto drill context, “Murder She Wrote” shows Top5’s awareness of musical history and his willingness to draw from diverse influences. The production cleverly references the original while updating it with modern production techniques and harder-hitting drums. Top5’s delivery rides the riddim with confidence, proving he can adapt his flow to different types of beats while maintaining his identity. This track stands out in his catalog for its boldness in reimagining a classic, and the execution justifies the creative risk.
IDK
“IDK” captures the uncertainty and questioning that comes with navigating success, relationships, and street politics simultaneously. The production features introspective elements with moody melodies that create space for Top5 to explore more vulnerable territory lyrically. His delivery on this track is notably more restrained than on his hardest records, allowing the lyrics to breathe and giving listeners time to absorb the messages he’s conveying. The track shows artistic maturity and willingness to show different facets of his personality beyond the aggressive persona that dominates much of his work.
Stay Dangerous
“Stay Dangerous” serves as both a warning and a lifestyle statement, with Top5 emphasizing the constant vigilance required in his environment. The production is appropriately tense, with ominous melodies and hard-hitting percussion creating an atmosphere of paranoia and readiness. His flow on this track is relentless, matching the energy of the instrumental while delivering bars that emphasize street awareness and survival instincts. The mixing ensures that every element hits with maximum impact, making this an essential track for understanding Top5’s worldview and the realities that inform his music.
Rollie On My Wrist
Celebrating success and material achievement, “Rollie On My Wrist” finds Top5 in a more braggadocious mood, though the underlying edge never completely disappears. The production features brighter elements than many of his darker tracks, with celebratory melodies that complement the track’s theme of enjoying the fruits of his labor. His delivery conveys genuine satisfaction with his accomplishments while making it clear he hasn’t forgotten where he came from or the work required to reach this point. The track balances celebration with the awareness that success brings its own challenges and responsibilities.
40 Wake Your Block Up
With an aggressive title that promises exactly what it delivers, “40 Wake Your Block Up” is one of Top5’s hardest-hitting tracks from a sonic and lyrical perspective. The production is absolutely uncompromising, with thunderous bass and militant percussion that demand to be played at maximum volume. Top5’s delivery matches the intensity of the beat perfectly, with every bar delivered with conviction and force. This track exemplifies what makes drill music effective when done well—it creates an atmosphere of intensity and urgency that’s impossible to ignore.
Free Pedro Interlude
Serving as an interlude on the Pedro Activated album, this track provides context and emotional depth to the project as a whole. The production is more understated than most of Top5’s full tracks, creating space for reflection and setting up the album’s narrative arc. Top5’s delivery on this interlude shows his ability to create impactful moments even without a traditional song structure, using voice and production to convey meaning beyond just the lyrics. It’s a necessary pause in the album’s intensity that makes the surrounding tracks hit even harder.
Mr. Walk Thru
Going back to 2019, “Mr. Walk Thru” represents another early track that helped establish Top5’s reputation and sound. The production features the dark, menacing quality that would become his trademark, with Top5’s confident delivery making it clear he viewed himself as a force to be reckoned with even early in his career. The track’s title references his reputation for moving through different territories and situations with confidence, a theme that resonates throughout his entire body of work. Listening to this track alongside his later releases provides valuable insight into his artistic development and consistency of vision.
Cam H
Named after a fallen friend, “Cam H” is one of Top5’s most emotionally charged tracks, addressing loss and grief with raw honesty. The production features somber melodies that create the appropriate atmosphere for the heavy subject matter, while Top5’s delivery conveys genuine pain and remembrance. This track showcases his ability to move beyond typical drill subject matter to create deeply personal music that connects with listeners on an emotional level. The sincerity in his voice makes it clear this isn’t just another track—it’s a tribute and a way of processing loss through music.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best songs to start with for new Top5 listeners?
For newcomers to Top5’s music, starting with “Drill Some More,” “2 Cases,” and “Heard of Me” provides an excellent introduction to his core sound and the intensity he brings to his tracks. These songs showcase his strongest qualities—aggressive delivery, hard-hitting production, and authentic street narratives—without requiring extensive knowledge of Toronto’s drill scene or his personal history. “Half Of Dis” and “Movie” offer slightly more accessible entry points with their more polished production, while still maintaining the edge that defines his music. After familiarizing yourself with these tracks, diving into the full Pedro Activated album provides comprehensive insight into his artistic vision and range.
How has Top5’s sound evolved throughout his career?
Top5’s evolution from his 2019 releases like “Demons” and “Mr. Walk Thru” to his 2023 Pedro Activated album shows significant growth in production quality, vocal delivery, and songwriting sophistication. His early tracks featured rawer production and more straightforward delivery, while his recent work demonstrates refined technical skills, more complex song structures, and willingness to incorporate melodic elements alongside his signature aggressive approach. The improvement in mixing and mastering across his discography is particularly noticeable, with later releases offering cleaner, more powerful sound that better showcases his artistic vision. Despite this evolution, he’s maintained the authenticity and street perspective that initially attracted his core fanbase.
What makes Top5 stand out in Toronto’s drill scene?
Top5’s distinctiveness in Toronto’s crowded drill landscape comes from his unfiltered authenticity, consistent output quality, and ability to create memorable hooks alongside hard-hitting verses. While many Toronto drill artists share similar thematic content, Top5’s delivery style—characterized by his distinctive voice, flow patterns, and the conviction he brings to every bar—sets him apart. His willingness to be confrontational and controversial has kept him in conversations even during periods between releases, and his music reflects genuine experiences rather than adopted personas. The production choices on his tracks often feature darker, more atmospheric elements than typical drill, creating a signature sound that’s immediately recognizable.
Are Top5’s tracks available on major streaming platforms?
Yes, Top5’s music is available across major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Tidal, making his catalog easily accessible to listeners worldwide. The Pedro Activated album and earlier releases like “Drill Some More,” “Half Of Dis,” and tracks from the Canada’s Most Wanted compilation can all be found on these services. However, it’s worth noting that some tracks may have regional availability restrictions or could be removed temporarily due to various industry and legal factors that sometimes affect street-oriented artists. For the most consistent listening experience, subscribing to a major streaming platform ensures access to his official releases and any new music as it drops.
What production style defines Top5’s best tracks?
The production on Top5’s strongest tracks typically features dark, atmospheric instrumentals with prominent 808 bass, sharp hi-hats, and menacing melodic elements that create tension throughout. Producers working with Top5 favor minimal but impactful arrangements that give his vocals space to command attention while maintaining the intensity that drill music demands. The best examples feature crisp mixing that allows the bass to hit hard without overwhelming the vocal clarity, ensuring that his lyrics remain intelligible despite the aggressive delivery. Tracks like “Drill Some More” and “40 Wake Your Block Up” exemplify this approach, with production that’s both sonically impressive and perfectly suited to Top5’s artistic strengths.