Grime: Which Songs Are The Most Nostalgic? 2000-2010 Edition - Part 1

After its emergence in the U.K music scene in the early 2000s, this well-loved genre caused a massive wave of artists dipping their toes in and attempting to out-bar everyone. Grime was developed after the ongoing hype of UK Garage, and from that point, it began to rise. Commonly, the style that instantly gets affiliated with the genre is fast-paced and hard-hitting, usually programmed around 140 BPM. One thing that helped the rise of the genre were pirate radio stations, as it allowed artists to promote themselves as much as they could.

Nothing came close to that rush, racing to school to allow your friends to send you the latest songs via Bluetooth, on a classic Sony Ericsson. At the time, other genres were gaining momentum. Nevertheless, as most listeners were the same demographic as the MCs, the genre quickly gained fans, as it was inspiring to see them on your screens or hear them on the radio. As its popularity heightened, so did the talent levels – saying that, compiling a list of songs to remind you of the great tunes that came out of the genre made sense. So, let's begin the countdown of the 10 singles that give us the most nostalgia.

10: Nu Brand Flexxx ft Maxwell D & others: Anthem

A masterpiece at its time, the well-known group were one of many at the time to form an allegiance with up-and-coming rappers to created a widely-loved 'Anthem'. The track was and still is captivating, entertaining and will leave you hitting the replay button on numerous occasions. Every single verse just gets better and better, without a hint of a decrease in versatility or energy. Remember, try and stay away from getting drawn like Vincent Van Gogh.

9: JME: 96 bars of revenge

Talking about making yourself heard, picture yourself as Skepta's little brother. You had to make a big impression, and that is what JME did with 96 Bars of Revenge. The comparisons may have made it harder for him to stand out. However, JME successfully created a separate lane where he is comfortable, gaining success too. The infamous start of, “96 bars of revenge,” will never be forgotten. There will always be that one song that people remember you for, the one that put you on the map, which the song achieved. This unapologetically honest track gave him the momentum to become the MC he is today.

8: Ghetts: Artillery

Introductions to Ghetts may have come when he dropped, “Don’t phone me,” was involved in the clash with Bashy, made infamous by two words, “ask Carlos,” or his recent work, “Conflict of Interest." All part of the intriguing story of Ghetts’ current acknowledgement thus far in his career. Artillery perfectly depicts the distinctive tone of Ghetts, along with his ability to keep you engaged as he ferociously attacks the beat. One word. breathtaking. The ever-exciting lyricist has done more than enough to cement his legacy in grime, earning his royalty status. Constantly aging like fine wine, every song/project he puts out almost always outdoes his last. He is indeed a certified grime general.

7: More Fire Crew: OI

Consisting of Lethal B, Ozzie B and Neeko, this is one of those ‘you had to be there’ moments in grime history. The trio performed a song that showcased what true grime was. When asked what the heartbeat of grime looks like, look no further than this. From the electrifying lyrics to the distinctive London accent, true grime at its finest. Skepta recently paid homage to the classic, after using the instrumental on his song Eyes on Me, coming from his latest E.P, "ALL In."

6: Chipmunk: Who Are You?

As soon as a crowd hears, “I am the Grime scene saviour,” just be ready to be bombarded by a ferocious mosh-pit. At 16-years-old, Chipmunk, as he was known back then, came for everyone’s necks; and quickly gathered up a loyal fanbase with his lyrical ability and flare. Everything about the songs epitomises him, which is being: confident, talented and assured. Now known as the clash king, the North London resident is one of the best to do it.