Let's be real, French Montana is one of those artists who, for a while, became almost as famous for his ad-libs and memes as he did for his music. But if you're only casually familiar with "Haaan" or "Skrrt," you're missing out on a discography packed with certified bangers, street anthems, and surprisingly introspective cuts. French Montana has carved out a unique lane in hip-hop, blending gritty East Coast street tales with a knack for catchy hooks and global-sounding production. He's the guy who can effortlessly link up with everyone from Rick Ross and Drake to Swae Lee and Kodak Black, always delivering that distinct Bronx swagger. For years, the Moroccan-born, Bronx-raised rapper has been a consistent force, a staple on club speakers and car radios. His sound is instantly recognizable: a laid-back yet confident flow, a penchant for melodic trap beats, and those unforgettable, almost hypnotic ad-libs that pull you right into his world. But beyond the chart-topping hits, there's a treasure trove of tracks that deserve more than just a passing listen. They deserve a permanent spot on your go-to hip-hop playlist, ready to drop at a moment's notice to set the mood, whether you're cruising down the highway or just chilling with the crew. So, clear some space on your digital deck, because we're diving deep into the vault. Forget the fleeting trends; these ten French Montana tracks are timeless, encapsulating the essence of his artistry and proving why he's much more than just a one-hit wonder. Get ready to elevate your playlist game.
The Essential French Montana Experience: Top 10 Tracks
Shot Caller (2012)
Before "Pop That" blew up, there was "Shot Caller," and if you know, you know. This track is a masterclass in street elegance, a quintessential New York anthem that cemented French Montana's name in the underground. The beat, crafted by Harry Fraud, is pure cinematic gold – airy, ominous, and incredibly smooth. French’s flow here is relentless, confident, and drips with the kind of street wisdom only a real one possesses. It’s the sound of a rapper on the cusp, proving he had the lyrical chops and the undeniable swagger to make it big. This isn't just a song; it's a statement, a declaration of intent. It's the perfect track to bump when you need to feel like the main character in your own hustle.
Pop That (feat. Rick Ross, Drake, Lil Wayne) (2012)
Okay, we can't talk French Montana without talking about "Pop That." This track isn't just a hit; it's a cultural reset button for summer parties worldwide. It's the epitome of a banger, an absolute juggernaut produced by the legendary Lee on the Beats. The beat drops, the bass hits, and suddenly everyone is moving. With an all-star lineup of Rick Ross, Drake, and Lil Wayne, each bringing their A-game, it’s pure, unadulterated hip-hop decadence. French Montana effortlessly holds his own among these titans, proving his star power. It’s loud, it’s brash, it’s unapologetically hedonistic – and it’s an absolute must-have for any playlist designed for maximum energy. Good luck not moving your body to this one; it’s practically impossible.
Ain't Worried About Nothin' (2013)
This track is French Montana in his purest form: confident, carefree, and slightly defiant. "Ain't Worried About Nothin'" boasts a hypnotic beat by Rico Love and Earl & E. that just slaps. It’s got that signature French vibe – laid-back but assertive, perfect for cruising with the windows down. The hook is infectious, repetitive in the best way possible, drilling itself into your brain and making you feel like you truly ain't worried about a single thing. It’s an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like they’ve overcome challenges and are now just enjoying the fruits of their labor. It’s that feel-good, I-made-it, nothing-can-stop-me type of track that just hits different.
Freaks (feat. Nicki Minaj) (2013)
"Freaks" is a testament to French Montana's ability to create catchy, radio-friendly bops without sacrificing his street cred. Featuring a fiery verse from Nicki Minaj, this track flips a familiar instrumental (Chaka Demus & Pliers' "Murder She Wrote") into a modern-day club smash. It's playful, explicit, and utterly irresistible. Nicki’s verse is, as expected, a highlight, but French’s smooth delivery over that classic riddim is what gives the track its undeniable bounce. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to get up and dance, no matter where you are. A definite party starter and a testament to his versatility.
Ocho Cinco (feat. Diddy, MGK, Red Cafe, Los) (2013)
Talk about a posse cut! "Ocho Cinco" is a deep cut from French's debut album, Excuse My French, and it’s a total flex. The beat is dark and gritty, providing the perfect canvas for a lineup of diverse flows. It feels like a moment, a snapshot of Bad Boy’s resurgence in the early 2010s, with Diddy leading the charge. French holds his own amongst a motley crew, delivering a solid performance that underscores his ability to curate a banging track. It’s got that raw, East Coast energy that just feels authentic, a reminder that French can go from club anthems to grimy street narratives with ease. This one is for those who appreciate a good lyrical exercise over a menacing beat.
Marble Floors (feat. Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz) (2013)
Another star-studded affair from Excuse My French, "Marble Floors" is pure luxury rap. The beat, another Harry Fraud masterpiece, is lush and expansive, perfectly complementing the opulent boasts of French, Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, and 2 Chainz. This track paints a vivid picture of success, excess, and living life to the fullest. Each artist brings their A-game, trading verses about lavish lifestyles, but it’s French’s signature relaxed confidence that truly sets the tone. It’s the kind of song you put on when you’re feeling yourself, when you’re celebrating a win, big or small. It drips with aspiration and achievement, a real mood-setter for feeling like a boss.
Unforgettable (feat. Swae Lee) (2017)
You can't talk about French Montana's global impact without mentioning "Unforgettable." This track, featuring the melodic genius of Swae Lee, transcended hip-hop and became a worldwide phenomenon. The infectious, Afrobeat-infused production by Jaegen, 1Mind, and C.P Dubb, coupled with the poignant lyrics about love and struggle, created a truly unique sound. French's relatively stripped-down, conversational flow here perfectly complements Swae Lee's ethereal vocals. It’s a beautifully crafted song that showed a different side of French, proving his versatility and ability to connect with a massive, diverse audience. It’s a feel-good, universally appealing track that deserves endless replays.
Lockjaw (feat. Kodak Black) (2016)
Before "Unforgettable" took over, "Lockjaw" was a certified street hit that showcased French Montana’s ear for emerging talent. Teaming up with a then-burgeoning Kodak Black, the song rides a dark, thumping beat that just oozes street credibility. Kodak’s distinct flow and raw energy perfectly complement French’s laid-back yet authoritative presence. It’s gritty, authentic, and has that undeniable head-nodding quality that makes it perfect for late-night drives. This track is a testament to French’s ability to stay relevant and tap into the pulse of the streets, always bringing fresh collaborations to the forefront. It’s a banger that has definitely stood the test of time.
No Stylist (feat. Drake) (2018)
Reuniting with Drake, "No Stylist" is a modern-day flex anthem that immediately became a staple in clubs and on radio waves. The beat is slick, understated, and allows both artists to shine with their distinct flows. French Montana delivers a confident, fashion-forward hook, while Drake offers a characteristically sharp and quotable verse. It’s the kind of track that just feels cool, effortless, and undeniably stylish. It captures the essence of contemporary hip-hop while retaining that classic French Montana charm. If you're looking for a track to make you feel like you're walking the runway every time you step out, this is it.
Figure It Out (feat. Kanye West, Nas) (2016)
This is probably one of French Montana’s most underrated tracks, and it’s an absolute gem. Featuring none other than Kanye West and Nas, "Figure It Out" is a reflective, introspective cut that shows a deeper side of French. The production is expansive and soulful, creating a powerful backdrop for the three artists to share their thoughts on life, success, and overcoming obstacles. French delivers a thoughtful performance, while Kanye and Nas drop some truly memorable verses. It’s not a club banger, but it's a powerful narrative piece that showcases French’s growth as an artist and his ability to hold his own with legends. It's a testament to his respect within the game and a track that reveals more layers with every listen.
So there you have it: ten tracks that barely scratch the surface of French Montana’s extensive catalog, but certainly provide a robust foundation for anyone looking to dive deeper. From the gritty street anthems that launched his career to the global pop hits and introspective collaborations, French Montana has consistently delivered a unique flavor to the hip-hop landscape. He's more than just catchy ad-libs and viral moments; he's a true architect of sound, a master of mood, and a consistent hitmaker who knows how to stay relevant without ever losing his authentic self. These songs are proof positive that French Montana deserves a permanent, respected place in your hip-hop rotation. So go ahead, add them to your playlist, turn up the volume, and let the good vibes roll. You won't regret it. Haaan!
