Over time, the music industry has experienced various peaks and valleys, with certain artists consistently maintaining their prominence amidst the fluctuating landscape. Among these enduring figures stand Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, and Jay-Z, who have not only retained their positions among the ever-expanding pool of contenders but have also significantly influenced mainstream hip-hop with their shared musical vision. Besides their individual endeavors, both artists have collaborated extensively, contributing to the evolution of hip-hop culture.

Their collaborative history spans two decades. Hence, reflecting on their collective output, here are five notable songs born from their collaboration.

Ye and Jay-Z’s creative partnership dates back to the 2000s, when the former served as a producer on many of the latter’s early hits. Following this, the Atlanta rapper began his solo career as a rapper when the two then collaborated from time to time. Lately, the rappers have grown apart, both on personal and musical fronts, with their only collaboration in the last nine years being in West’s 2021 record, ‘Donda’. But in 2010, when Ye’s ‘My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy’ was released, a song that made rounds of every playlist across the globe was ‘Monster’ featuring Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross, and Bon Iver.

The song features a solid verse by Jay-Z and in the 2010s; it was named the best song by Gigwise. The track also stayed for five weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 18, and was certified 2x Platinum in the US by RIAA. 

Ye and Jay-Z's relationship may not exude the same splendor as it once did, but their willingness to support each other remains steadfast, transcending any past conflicts. This year's Grammy Awards bore witness to such a moment, as the Atlanta rapper aligned himself with Jay-Z, highlighting the enduring roots of their alliance. It's important to note that these occasional mentions are merely snapshots of the present, contrasting with the era when their names were synonymous with mutual admiration and support.  

Their enduring commitment to music has birthed numerous hits, one of which significantly impacted both the musical landscape and award ceremonies: 'Run This Town', featuring Jay-Z, Rihanna, and Ye from Jay-Z's album 'The Blueprint 3'. Serving as the album's second official single, the track garnered acclaim, earning the Best Rap Song award at the 52nd Grammy Awards. Following its digital release, 'Run This Town' debuted impressively at number three on the Digital Songs chart, climbing from number 66 to three on the Hot 100 in its third week. Eventually peaking at number two, the song became Jay-Z's second-highest-charting single as a lead artist.  

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In May 2012, 'Run This Town' reached the milestone of 3 million digital sales, marking the third 3-million seller for Jay-Z, the sixth for West, and a record ninth for Rihanna. This track not only dominated the hip-hop charts but also transcended genre boundaries, making its mark on the pop charts as well.  

As long-standing collaborators and dominant forces in the realm of shared recordings, Ye and Jay-Z’s chemistry evolved with each stepping stone to their name and all its culmination bore evidence on ‘Never Let Me Down’ from the former’s ‘The College Dropout’ record from 2004. This was also the first time the two traded mics on West’s debut album.

The track quickly became a hit and a recurring title on people’s playlists while Time named it the second-best song of 2004. Billboard dubbed it as the second greatest hit by the duo in August 2011, post the release of their collaborative album ‘Watch the Throne’. Despite never being released as a single, the track still holds an unfettering legacy. 

Throughout their collaborative journey, Ye and Jay-Z's partnership has navigated its share of complexities. However, throughout their creative alliance, those flukes of shortcomings never landed on the music’s sacred grounds. This commitment was evident when West released his second album, 'Late Registration', featuring a notable track titled 'Diamonds from Sierra Leone'. The album included two versions of the song, with the remix featuring Jay-Z occupying the 13th position as a bonus track.

This remix marked a significant milestone for both artists as they delved into the moral quandary surrounding the use of blood diamonds in jewelry. Their poignant exploration earned them the Best Rap Song award at the 2006 Grammys and recognition at the BMI London Awards. In 2013, Rolling Stone ranked the track as West's ninth-best song based on a poll conducted among the audience.

‘Niggas in Paris’ is undeniably one of those tracks that etched itself into the annals of hip-hop history. The collaboration between Ye and Jay-Z on their album ‘Watch the Throne’ was a seismic event in the music industry, bringing together two titans of rap for a project that resonated across generations. The song's infectious beat, anchored by that iconic synth bell loop from the 'Dirty South Bangaz music library, immediately captured listeners' attention and refused to let go.

Its rise on the Billboard Hot 100 chart is a testament to its impact and popularity, climbing from a modest debut to a top-five hit within weeks of its release. The accolades it received, including the Grammy Awards for Best Rap Song and Performance, further solidified its status as a cultural phenomenon. But perhaps what is most impressive about ‘Niggas in Paris’ is its longevity. Beyond its initial success, the track has continued to thrive, spawning countless remixes and serving as a touchstone for artists looking to tap into its energy and creativity.

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In many ways, 'Niggas in Paris' represents the apex of Ye and Jay-Z's collaborative efforts, showcasing their ability to push boundaries and redefine what is possible within the genre. It is a timeless classic that remains as relevant and impactful today as it was upon its release, a shining example of the golden days of hip-hop and the enduring power of musical innovation.

What is your favorite pick from the above-mentioned top 5 collaborations between Ye and Jay-Z? Let us know in the comments below!