Rolling Stone’s accolade praised Sexyy Redd’s “conversational delivery and almost whiny trills” on the track, while giving credit to Grammy-winning producer Tay Keith for the production’s nostalgic vibes. But many on social media couldn’t help but question the validity of this choice. Is “SkeeYee” truly the pinnacle of rap in 2023, or is it merely a catchy viral sensation that got carried away?

The reaction on Twitter was swift and unfiltered. One user called the list “fraudulent,” while another suggested renaming it to “most hype hip-hop songs of 2023.”

Fans of Sexyy Redd’s track defended its catchiness, but others argued that catchy does not necessarily equate to best.

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However, amidst the heated debates, some users pointed fingers at Rolling Stone itself, accusing the magazine of “mocking” Black music with this choice. It’s worth noting that this controversy comes on the heels of Rolling Stone’s founder, Jann Wenner, facing backlash for his controversial remarks about Black artists and women in music. Wenner’s comments have left a lasting stain on the magazine’s reputation, making any decision they make related to music and culture highly scrutinized.

“SkeeYee” had indeed dominated the airwaves and social media throughout 2023. It became a viral sensation, even finding its way into NFL locker rooms and college campuses. The song’s irresistible energy and Sexyy Redd’s undeniable charisma contributed to its widespread appeal. However, the question remains: does catchy equate to the best?

Rolling Stone’s ranking, in the end, raises questions not just about the validity of their list but also about the state of rap music in 2023. Is it evolving in a new direction, where viral sensations trump lyrical depth? Or is this just a momentary diversion from the genre’s core values?