Few artists in recent years have made as profound an impact as XXXTENTACION. In a short life that ended far too soon, he managed to create a genre-bending discography—blending hip hop, punk, R&B, and lo-fi soul into music that resonated deeply with a generation. Through raw vulnerability, genre fluidity, and unapologetic honesty, XXXTENTACION (aka Jahseh Onfroy) tackled everything from heartbreak to mental health, building a devoted fanbase that continues to celebrate his legacy. This is a look at the top 10 XXXTENTACION songs: a full ranking and analysis of the anthems, breakthroughs, and hidden gems that shaped his unforgettable journey.
The Evolution of XXXTENTACION’s Sound
To understand the weight of every xxxtentacion song, it helps to grasp his musical arc. Early on, his tracks thrived in the rough, urgent energy of SoundCloud rap—raw, distorted beats and piercing emotion. But as he matured, XXXTENTACION ventured into sparkling melodic hooks, acoustic ballads, and R&B confessions. His willingness to be honest about pain, depression, and personal struggles set him apart—his best work was both soundtrack and therapy for a generation dealing with its own turmoil.
The Top 10 XXXTENTACION Songs: Ranked and Explained
Here it is: our full, considered list of xxxtentacion songs that truly defined his music legacy. Each selection includes highlights about why it matters, its unique sound, and the story or message within.
1. SAD!
When people think XXXTENTACION, “SAD!” is often the first track that comes to mind. It’s his biggest hit and remains one of the most streamed xxxtentacion songs ever, spending weeks on the Billboard charts and going multi-platinum around the world. The haunting simplicity, infectious melody, and lyrics about lost love and depression (“I’m sad, I know, yeah…”) make it not just a sad song by xxxtentacion, but an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt broken-hearted.
- Impact: Broke streaming records, became a global meme, and stands tall in any xxxtentacion tribute playlist
- Why it matters: The emotional honesty and minimalistic beat capture the essence of X’s appeal.
2. Jocelyn Flores
Inspired by the tragic suicide of a close friend, this track captures grief, regret, and the raw aftermath of loss. “Jocelyn Flores” pulls listeners into X’s struggles with mental health and features one of his most memorable hooks.
- Legacy: A go-to xxxtentacion mental health song, it’s widely cited for helping fans process their own emotions.
- Distinct sound: Melancholic, haunting, and intimate, it’s X at his most vulnerable.
3. Moonlight
“Moonlight” combines catchy melodies with introspective lyrics, masking deep emotional pain beneath a bouncy beat. The line “Feel like I’m destined…” still hits listeners with chill optimism and sadness all at once.
- Iconic moment: The music video, released posthumously, serves as a moving tribute—filled with symbolism and visual references for fans to discover.
4. changes
This softer xxxtentacion song leans into R&B and stripped-back production, foregrounding lyrical heartbreak and self-reflection. “Changes” highlights the evolution in X’s artistry—his willingness to be gentle, honest, and open.
- Best for: Late-night listening, reflection, and anyone going through relationship upheaval.
5. Look At Me!
The track that first sent shockwaves through the internet. With its blown-out bass, wild energy, and punk attitude, “Look At Me!” announced XXXTentacion as the new face of SoundCloud rap xxxtentacion tracks.
- Why it’s legendary: This is pure adrenaline—an unapologetic burst that set the stage for X’s rapid rise and the broader SoundCloud movement.
6. Everybody Dies In Their Nightmares
Short, hypnotic, and deeply existential, this song deals frankly with depression, anxiety, and fleeting hope. Its repetitive, reflective structure mirrors internal struggle, making it a staple of xxxtentacion sad songs.
- For fans who: Appreciate “sad Disney songs” or the darker shades in “sad songs by the Beatles,” but want something that feels truly modern.
7. Hope
X dedicated “Hope” to the victims of the Parkland school shooting, expanding his commentary to wider societal pain. The song is uplifting yet tragic—urging listeners to hold out for better days, even when loss feels insurmountable.
- Significance: Shows XXXTENTACION’s empathy and desire to heal through music.
8. Carry On
A frequently overlooked, but deeply moving xxxtentacion song list with meaning. “Carry On” is a simple acoustic track that strips X down to his core—raw voice, minimal production, and a powerful message about perseverance through loss and self-hate.
- Best verses: Among X’s most personally revealing lyrics.
9. Falling Down (with Lil Peep)
One of the best xxxtentacion collabs, released posthumously in partnership with Lil Peep. “Falling Down” is a melancholic, rain-soaked ballad about regret and missed connections, and has become an anthem for those mourning both artists.
- Chart power: Instantly joined lists of xxxtentacion most streamed songs, with broad crossover appeal.
10. RIOT
Rounding out our list, “RIOT” captures XXXTENTACION’s activist edge, taking aim at social injustice and violence. Fueled by urgent delivery and contentious themes, it’s a reminder that his music legacy tackled more than just personal pain.
- Why it matters: “RIOT” challenges listeners to think, not just feel—a key legacy of XXXTENTACION’s artistry.
Honorable Mentions: Songs That Almost Made the List
No xxxtentacion discography list is complete without spotlighting a few tracks that could easily have squeezed into the top ten:
- “NUMB” – Emotional X at his most confessional.
- “the remedy for a broken heart (why am I so in love)” – Dreamy, introspective, and catchy as ever.
- “I Don’t Wanna Do This Anymore” – Vulnerable and relatable for anyone battling their own demons.
- “Bad!” – A late career banger that kept his name buzzing posthumously.
The Impact: XXXTENTACION’s Best Verses and Ongoing Legacy
XXX’s body of work remains a complex conversation among fans, critics, and scholars alike. His best verses came layered with hope, anger, regret, and self-doubt—qualities that fueled a brand of honesty rarely seen in mainstream hip hop. Tracks like “SAD!” and “Jocelyn Flores” moved millions because they spoke the unspeakable; songs like “RIOT” and “Hope” showed a willingness to address societal wounds.
Why These Songs Still Matter
- They offer comfort for young people navigating mental health struggles.
- They reflect a new chapter in the interplay between rap, alternative, and emo music.
- They’ve inspired tribute playlists and countless covers from emerging artists worldwide.
Two Perspectives: How Do You Remember XXXTENTACION?
1. The Artist Who Spoke For a Generation
For many, XXXTENTACION’s greatest gift wasn’t just catchy hooks, but an ability to articulate pain, confusion, and hope. He gave anthems to those struggling and built a community that found meaning in every cracked vocal take.
2. The Controversial Trailblazer
Others view XXXTentacion as a symbol of contradictions—a man wrestling with his own darkness, who left behind challenging and sometimes divisive work. For listeners who value art’s power to shock, stir, or provoke thought, his catalog is endlessly rewarding.
Tips for Exploring XXXTENTACION’s Discography
- Start with the full xxxtentacion song list with meaning—don’t skip deep cuts and early mixes.
- Search for xxxtentacion tribute playlists on Spotify and Apple Music for fan-curated journeys through his work.
- Consider his context: the rise of SoundCloud rap, mental health as a theme in music, and the vulnerability in his interviews and media moments.
Conclusion: Remembering XXXTENTACION’s Music Legacy
Love him or question his legacy, few can deny that XXXTENTACION made music that echoed loudest with a fractured but hopeful generation. His best songs—many featured here—redefined what modern rap could sound and feel like. As his name still trends, new fans discover his story, and tribute playlists grow, we’re reminded that songs by xxxtentacion continue to shape conversations about emotion, struggle, and the power of being real.
What’s your personal favorite xxxtentacion iconic song? Which track inspired you, or helped you through a tough moment? Drop your picks in the comments and keep celebrating XXXTENTACION’s unmatched spirit—one track at a time.