Juice (1992) – Best Hip-Hop Movie Soundtracks

Unlike many of the movies that were released around the same time focusing on “urban” stories, Ernest Dickerson’s directorial debut holds up remarkably well, thanks to great performances, a story that resonates with specificity without seeming too dated, and of course its incredible soundtrack. By itself, Eric B. & Rakim’s 'Juice (Know the Ledge)' would earn this disc a spot on any best-of list, but Naughty By Nature’s 'Uptown Anthem' is just as good, as is Big Daddy Kane’s rapid fire 'Nuff Respect.' Meanwhile, deeper cuts like Too Short’s “So You Want to Be a Gangster,” Salt & Pepa’s “He’s Gamin’ On Ya” and Cypress Hill’s pulsating, sinister 'Shoot ‘Em Up' lend the movie authenticity and gravitas.