What makes Kick, Push by Lupe Fiasco notable?

The song became a commercial success, peaking at number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim for its refreshing take on hip-hop. It helped establish Lupe as a voice of conscious hip-hop in the mid-2000s and has since influenced numerous artists within the genre. Kick, Push is Lupe Fiasco's debut single, released in early 2006. This track marked his emergence onto the hip-hop scene after signing with Atlantic Records, showcasing his unique style that combines alternative influences with traditional rap elements.

How many songs are on Kick, Push?

Kick, Push has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Kick, Push

Lupe Fiasco · 2006

7 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

A fresh blend of storytelling and melodic hooks that intertwine skate culture with introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Kick Push (album version) — This track serves as a narrative-driven anthem that encapsulates the essence of youth, freedom, and skate culture, making it a defining moment in Lupe's career.
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Tilted — With its catchy melody and introspective lyrics, this track further exemplifies Lupe's skill in blending personal storytelling with broader social themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases a mix of engaging melodies and varied structures but lacks strong cohesion as a two-track release.

What we noticed

The lead track features a steady, mid-tempo beat with layered guitar riffs and a prominent bass line that drives the song forward.
The second track introduces a more experimental sound with off-kilter rhythms and unconventional song structure, contrasting with the first.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single marked Lupe's emergence and established his reputation in hip-hop.
Career context: Kick, Push is Lupe Fiasco's debut single, released in early 2006. This track marked his emergence onto the hip-hop scene after signing with Atlantic Records, showcasing his unique style that combines alternative influences with traditional rap elements.
Stylistic neighbors: Kendrick Lamar· J. Cole· Macklemore