There have been some very good verses this year.
As we hit the halfway point of 2025, Complex has unveiled its much-anticipated list of the Best Rap Verses of the Year (So Far)—and it’s packed with both surprises and heavyweights. This year’s list features an eclectic mix of rap titans, global voices, and rising stars, underscoring that elite lyricism is still alive and thriving in the genre.
Claiming the top spot is Meek Mill with his impassioned verse on “Proud Of Me” by Fridayy. It’s a hungry, reflective performance that plays like a statement of purpose—reminding fans that Meek is one of those ones.
Right behind him is Kendrick Lamar, who delivers a powerful, cinematic verse on “Chains & Whips,” a standout from Clipse’s upcoming album Let God Sort Em Out. What’s even more remarkable is that we haven’t yet heard the full version of the track, and it still made Complex’s list. Pusha T follows closely with Verse 3 from “So Be It,” where he takes direct aim at Travis Scott with surgical precision.
Also in the top five is Drake, who came swinging with Verse 1 on “Gimme A Hug,” dropping pointed lines shortly after weathering some of the most intense backlash of his career. Rounding out the list are notable names like NBA YoungBoy, JID, Joey Badass, Billy Woods, and Doechii, whose verse on the “EGYPT Remix” is earning her widespread praise for its ferocity and finesse.
One of the most impressive parts of this year’s ranking is its balance of legacy and freshness. Malice taps into deep introspection on “Ace Trumpets,” while newcomer Nino Paid earns his spot with the vivid storytelling of “Joey’s Story.” The UK is well represented too—Central Cee delivers a standout performance on “Don’t Know Anymore,” and Little Simz impresses with Verse 2 on “Free,” a personal favorite verse of mine.
From underground heroes to household names, Complex’s 2025 list serves as a potent reminder: great verses still matter.
Check out Complex’s full list below:
The Best Rap Verses of 2025 (So Far), According to Complex:
Meek Mill — “Proud Of Me”
Kendrick Lamar — “Chains & Whips”
Pusha T — “So Be It” (Verse 3)
Drake — “Gimme A Hug” (Verse 1)
NBA YoungBoy — “Alive”
JID — “Bodies”
Billy Woods — “Cold Sweat” (Verse 1)
Malice — “Ace Trumpets”
Joey Badass — “Crash Dummies” (Verse 1)
J. Cole — “cLOUDs” (Verse 2)
Doechii — “EGYPT Remix”
Nino Paid — “Joey Story”
Central Cee — “Don’t Know Anymore”
Little Simz — “Free” (Verse 2)
2 Chainz — “Bad Choices”
The Best Rap Verses of 2025, according to Complex ?
— NFR Podcast (@nfr_podcast) June 30, 2025
??1. Meek Mill — Proud Of Me
??2. Kendrick Lamar — Chains & Whips
??3. Pusha T — So Be It (Verse 3)
??4. Drake — Gimme A Hug (Verse 1)
??5. NBA YoungBoy — Alive
??6. JID — Bodies
??7. Billy Woods — Cold Sweat (Verse 1)
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Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
