What makes Push It by Salt-N-Pepa notable?

'Push It' became a cultural phenomenon, reaching No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 and gaining recognition as one of the first rap songs to cross over into pop charts. Its critical reception was overwhelmingly positive, earning a place in various 'greatest songs' lists and solidifying Salt-N-Pepa's legacy in hip-hop history. Released in 1986, 'Push It' marked Salt-N-Pepa's transition from underground hip-hop artists to mainstream icons. This was their breakthrough single, following their debut album 'Hot, Cool & Vicious', which set the stage for their influence on the genre and female representation in rap.

How many songs are on Push It?

Push It has 3 tracks, running approximately 11 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Push It

Salt-N-Pepa · 1986

11 min · 3 tracks · hip-hop

Energetic hip-hop beats collide with playful lyrics, creating an infectious party atmosphere that defined a generation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Push It — As the title track and lead single, this song showcases Salt-N-Pepa's signature blend of catchy hooks and confident delivery, making it an anthem for empowerment and fun.
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A Salt With a Deadly Pepa — This track highlights the duo's clever wordplay and playful bravado while introducing their unique identity within the male-dominated hip-hop scene.
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Spinderella’s Not a Fella (But a Girl‐DJ) — Celebrating female DJs, this song serves as a tribute to Spinderella, emphasizing women's roles in hip-hop and challenging gender stereotypes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The single blends catchy hooks with strong performances, marking a significant moment in hip-hop history.

What we noticed

The title track features a repetitive hook that is layered with energetic beats and playful vocal exchanges.
The final track highlights DJ Spinderella's skills, incorporating scratching and turntablism that adds to the overall dynamic.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 — 'Push It' marked their first major hit, establishing their reputation in hip-hop.
Themes: 80s party culture· female empowerment· dance floor confidence
Moods: Energetic· Uplifting
Career context: Released in 1986, 'Push It' marked Salt-N-Pepa's transition from underground hip-hop artists to mainstream icons. This was their breakthrough single, following their debut album 'Hot, Cool & Vicious', which set the stage for their influence on the genre and female representation in rap.
Stylistic neighbors: MC Lyte· Queen Latifah· Spice Girls