13 Best D12 Songs

John Godfrey

Hip-hop fans rejoice because we’re diving into the high-energy world of D12, a group that made waves in the music industry. D12, also known as the Dirty Dozen, is a rap crew from Detroit with a bold style that stands out. Get ready to nod your head to their unforgettable beats.

D12’s music is like a roller coaster of words and rhythms, where every song tells a story with a punch. They’ve teamed up with big names like Eminem and created tracks that make you want to jump up and dance. The group has a special way of mixing fun with tough topics, making their songs stick in your heart and head.

1. My Band – D12

Artist: D12
Track Name: My Band
Album: D-12 World
Release Year: 2004
spotify

My Band is a hit single by D12, a hip-hop group featuring the renowned rapper Eminem, released in 2004. The song stands out for its catchy hook and humorous take on the band’s dynamics, particularly the exaggerated perception that Eminem is the only notable member.

The track was inspired by the group’s real-life frustration with the media’s focus on Eminem, overshadowing the collective talent of the entire group. Its lyrics satirically address the issue of uneven recognition, resonating with artists who feel underappreciated in collaborative projects.

Since its release, My Band has left a memorable mark on the hip-hop community, praised for its comedic approach and relatable theme. Fans and critics alike have celebrated the song for its cleverness, helping solidify D12’s identity beyond Eminem’s shadow.

2. Purple Pills – D12

Artist: D12
Track Name: Purple Pills
Album: Devils Night
Release Year: 2001
spotify

Purple Pills, hit the airwaves in 2001, showcasing D12’s unrestrained and vibrant style within the hip-hop scene. The track became notable for its energetic beat and playful, controversial lyrics, as it humorously delved into substance use.

Drawing from their gritty Detroit roots, D12 members, including the celebrated Eminem, crafted Purple Pills to offer an exaggerated, comedic take on their encounters with drug culture. The song’s raw and unapologetic narrative resonated strongly with a generation facing the realities of addiction and escapism.

Over time, Purple Pills has etched its mark in hip-hop history, garnering both admiration and critique for its bold approach. It remains a significant piece in D12’s discography, remembered by fans for its catchy hooks and stark portrayal of substances altering reality.

3. Fight Music – D12

Artist: D12
Track Name: Fight Music
Album: Devils Night
Release Year: 2001
spotify

Fight Music is a high-octane track from D12’s debut album, Devil’s Night, released in 2001. The song is known for its aggressive rap verses and anthemic chorus, showcasing the group’s raw energy and lyrical prowess.

Inspired by the group’s experiences with conflict and aggression in urban Detroit, Fight Music captures the intensity of street life and personal struggles. It serves as both a cathartic expression of frustration and a call to stand up against adversity.

The track resonated with fans, becoming one of D12’s most recognized and enduring songs, and it solidified the group’s reputation in the rap genre. Though it did not garner significant awards, Fight Music remains a powerful anthem reflective of its era and continues to influence hip-hop culture.

4. American Psycho II – D12, B-Real

Artist: D12, B-Real
Track Name: American Psycho II
Album: D-12 World
Release Year: 2004
spotify

American Psycho II is a 2004 track by rap group D12 featuring B-Real of Cypress Hill. Its aggressive rhythm and raw lyrics deliver a distinctive sound typical of D12’s darker, more intense works.

The song draws from the artists’ personal battles and industry frustrations, weaving a tale of psychological edges, and struggles with fame. It resonates with listeners for its unfiltered take on the highs and lows of a turbulent lifestyle.

Despite not garnering major awards, American Psycho II left a mark with its honest expression and gritty storytelling. Both fans and critics praise the track for its authenticity and the way it captures the essence of D12’s unique contribution to hip-hop culture.

5. Rap Game – D12, 50 Cent

Artist: D12, 50 Cent
Track Name: Rap Game
Album: 8 Mile (Music From And Inspired By The Motion Picture)
Release Year: 2002
spotify

Rap Game is a hard-hitting track by D12 featuring 50 Cent, released in 2002 on the soundtrack for the film 8 Mile. Its gritty lyrics and aggressive beats exemplify the raw energy of Detroit’s rap scene at the time.

The song draws from D12 and 50 Cent’s personal struggles and the gritty reality of pursuing success in the rap industry. It resonates with themes of perseverance and authenticity, reflecting the artists’ dedication to their craft amidst adversity.

Rap Game has left a lasting mark on fans and critics alike, often praised for its authentic portrayal of the challenges faced by artists. Its influence endures in the world of hip-hop, continuing to inspire new generations of rappers who relate to its powerful message.

6. How Come – D12

Artist: D12
Track Name: How Come
Album: D-12 World
Release Year: 2004
spotify

How Come is a raw and emotional track from D12’s second album, D12 World, released in 2004. The song showcases the group’s ability to blend gritty rap with poignant storytelling, highlighting their unique dynamic as Eminem’s rap collective.

The inspiration for How Come lies in the strained relationships and internal conflicts within D12. It delves into feelings of betrayal and the complexities of maintaining friendships amidst fame, reflecting the personal struggles the group members faced.

The impact of How Come resonates with fans who appreciate the vulnerability of the lyrics and the relatability of falling out with close friends. Critics and audiences alike have recognized the song as one of D12’s standout tracks, cementing its place in early 2000s hip-hop culture.

7. Girls – D12

Artist: D12
Track Name: Girls
Album: Devils Night
Release Year: 2001
spotify

Girls is a track by hip-hop group D12, featured on their 2001 album Devil’s Night. Its aggressive style and direct lyrics set it apart, showcasing the group’s raw and unfiltered approach to addressing conflict.

The song is a diss track aimed primarily at Limp Bizkit and their frontman Fred Durst, fueled by D12’s personal grievances and industry disputes. The emotionally charged lyrics reflect the tension and betrayal felt by the group, highlighting the realities of rap feuds.

Over the years, Girls has carved out a niche for itself as a memorable diss track within hip hop culture. Despite not garnering major awards, its boldness resonated with fans and provided a candid look at D12’s perspective on loyalty and respect in the music business.

8. Pimp Like Me – D12

Artist: D12
Track Name: Pimp Like Me
Album: Devils Night
Release Year: 2001
spotify

Pimp Like Me is a track from D12’s 2001 album, Devil’s Night, which showcases the group’s gritty, raw style. The song creates a vivid narrative with a blend of aggressive lyrics and a funky backdrop.

The track draws from the personal experiences and street culture that influenced D12 members, painting a picture of the hustler’s lifestyle. It taps into themes of power, sexuality, and the complexities of relationships in the urban setting.

Over the years, Pimp Like Me has become an emblematic song that reflects D12’s authentic storytelling and their ability to capture the mood of Detroit’s underground scene. The song remains a cult favorite for its bold approach and the raw talent exhibited by the group, though it did not receive mainstream awards.

9. 40 Oz. – D12

Artist: D12
Track Name: 40 Oz.
Album: D-12 World
Release Year: 2004
spotify

40 oz. is a hard-hitting track from D12’s 2004 album, D12 World. It showcases the group’s gritty rhymes and aggressive beats, capturing the raw energy of Detroit’s hip-hop scene.

The song reflects D12’s street experiences and the challenges they faced in their rise to fame. Its rebellious tone and anthemic chorus resonate with themes of defiance and camaraderie.

40 oz. left a lasting mark on fans with its bold style and unapologetic lyrics. Both critics and listeners praised the track for its authenticity, securing D12’s place in the landscape of early 2000s hip-hop.

10. American Psycho – D12

Artist: D12
Track Name: American Psycho
Album: Devils Night
Release Year: 2001
spotify

American Psycho is a gritty track by D12, featured on their 2001 album Devil’s Night. Its harsh lyrics and aggressive beat embody the raw style of early 2000s hip-hop, unfiltered and intense.

The song delves into the dark, psychological themes inspired by the group’s encounter with fame and personal demons. It embodies the struggles and inner conflicts they faced, reflecting a mix of bravado and vulnerability.

Despite its chilling tone, American Psycho struck a chord with fans, securing a spot in D12’s legacy as a cult classic. The song’s authenticity and visceral storytelling continue to resonate, making it a standout example of the group’s influence on hip-hop.

11. Shit On You – D12

Artist: D12
Track Name: Shit On You
Album: Devil’s Night (Expanded Edition)
Release Year: 2021
spotify

Shit on You by D12, released in 2021, delivers a hard-hitting, aggressive hip-hop sound. The song’s uniqueness lies in its raw delivery and the group’s signature blend of dark humor and sharp lyricism.

The track draws from D12’s real-life struggles and confrontations, laying out a rebellious message against their detractors. It resonates with themes of defiance and camaraderie, encapsulating the group’s gritty and unapologetic ethos.

Shit on You has left a mark for its bold expression and has garnered a strong reaction from both fans and critics for its unfiltered approach. Its cultural significance is underscored by the group’s loyal fanbase, celebrating D12’s audacious style and the song’s impact within the hip-hop community.

12. Git Up – D12

Artist: D12
Track Name: Git Up
Album: D-12 World
Release Year: 2004
spotify

Git Up is a hard-hitting track by the hip-hop collective D12, released as part of their 2004 album, D12 World. Famed for their gritty lyrics and aggressive beats, D12, which included the late, great Proof and the superstar Eminem, delivered a song that’s high in energy and defiance.

The track draws from D12’s struggles with the challenges and criticisms they faced in the music industry. It serves as a battle cry, urging listeners to stand up against adversity and own their power, mirroring the group’s fierce determination and resilience.

Git Up resonated with fans for its unapologetic attitude and raw intensity, cementing D12’s legacy in the hip-hop community. Though it didn’t receive major awards, the track remains a testament to the group’s talent and their impact on the genre’s soundscape.

13. It Ain’t Nothin’ But Music – D12

Artist: D12
Track Name: It Ain’t Nothin’ But Music
Album: Devils Night
Release Year: 2001
spotify

It Ain’t Nothin’ but Music is a dynamic track by the hip-hop group D12, released in their 2001 album Devil’s Night. The song stands out for its lively beat and scathing commentary on media and pop culture.

The inspiration for It Ain’t Nothin’ but Music stems from D12’s desire to tackle the criticism hip-hop often faces for influencing violence and negative behaviors. Emotionally charged and unapologetically bold, the song expresses the group’s frustration with being scapegoats for society’s deeper issues.

Over time, It Ain’t Nothin’ but Music has carved out its place in hip-hop history, resonating with fans for its raw honesty and the group’s stellar lyrical delivery. Though it didn’t win major awards, its cultural impact is evidenced by its enduring relevance and the strong reactions it continues to elicit from listeners.

Share:

John Godfrey

John Godfrey is a music lover and the guy behind Songpier.com, where you’ll find all kinds of music guides. He picked up the drums in high school, which got him hooked on rock. With a Master’s in music education, he now enjoys writing about music and sharing his passion with others.

Tags