The Top 10 Most Popular Hip Hop Singles The Week Of 3/5/2012

If you’re a fan of Hip Hop (which you probably are if you’re on this site), then you have alot to be excited about. Many, many fans are making the trip to Austin this week for SXSW, as are new talent (and some established talent) hoping to open people’s ears and eyes at SXSW. To think, a few years back, this gathering was primarily for Indie Rock acts. Hip Hop has taken over, so now your favorite bands and your favorite emcees are chillin’ under the same roof. The reality of this week’s list is that no one is “new” new. There are some surprises (which you’ll find below), but all in all, we know these people. But in the way that SXSW exposes people to new talent, some of these guys showed up there in previous years to promote themselves. Now they’re our staples. See how that goes? Hopefully some artists you check out at “South-by” will show up on this list at some point too.

Snoop Dogg Stays Smoking, Ruste Juxx Surprises Everyone

Snoop Dogg is gearing for the release of his album Reincarnated. It will mark his 12th studio album, and he’s obviously remained consistent – meaning, he still likes weed. After working with Wiz Khalifa on the Mac + Devin Go To High School film and soundtrack, Snoop keeps the smoke blowing with “Stoner’s Anthem.” The track made #1 on our list this week. His fellow smoker Wiz Khalifa came in at #7 with the Fashawn assisted “Mt. Money.” The biggest surprise, though, was longtime Boot Camp Clik collaborator Ruste Juxx checking in at #6 with his posse cut “Three The Squad Way.” He’s joined by Vinnie Paz and Rock of Heltah Skeltah on the track. Is Brooklyn in the house? Apparently it is!

J.Cole Plays Doubles, Tyga Roars On

Last week we predicted that J.Cole’s “Visionz Of Home” would end up on the list this week. We were right, and it came in at #3. Cole’s other single “Grew Up Fast” moved down to #8 along with Slaughterhouse’s bumped down “Hammer Dance” at #9. One member, Joell Ortiz, hit #2 with his freestyle over “The Motto.” But back to J.Cole. Two weekends ago, J.Cole got his own holiday weekend and premiered “Visionz” right as the weekend started. When Cole wins, we all win. Tyga has reason to celebrate too. His “Kings & Queens” track with Nas and Wale is still on the list, marking the #5 spot with his YMCMB stamp. Tyga’s waited a long time to get this kind of success. Bravo. Representing the R&B singers is Frank Ocean. His new track “Thinking About You” checked in at #4. That’s great, but where’s the album, Frank?