Hits from “Icy Grl” to “Best Friend”

From the vibrant streets of the Bay Area to the top of the charts, Saweetie has become a force to be reckoned with. Off the stage, she is known as Diamonté Quiava Valentin Harper. Her charismatic presence and undeniable sense of style have earned her a unique place in a crowded industry. Her music is a mix of confident anthems and female empowerment, making her a standout artist.

Since her debut, Saweetie has consistently delivered songs that dominate the charts and have become cultural classics. Her music often celebrates confidence and fun, making her a favorite with listeners. We’ll explore five essential songs that capture the essence of Saweetie’s artistry and illuminate her journey from rising star to a household name in hip-hop.

“Icy Grl” is the song that put Saweetie on the map. Released in 2017, this debut single became an instant hit. Saweetie samples Khia’s “My Neck, My Back,” turning the story into an anthem of empowerment and confidence. Moreover, the song’s success is also due to Saweetie’s uncompromising dedication to her ambitions and lifestyle. “Icy Grl” serves as an introduction to her personality – cool, ambitious, and confident. It laid the foundation for her brand, with the “icy” theme becoming a signature aspect of her image, symbolizing her love of bling-bling and her cool, composed demeanor in the face of challenges. Saweetie’s deft use of social media helped “Icy Grl” go viral. It also landed her a deal with Warner Records and set the stage for her subsequent hits. The song’s impact is undeniable, marking the beginning of her journey to becoming a household name in hip-hop.

Saweetie’s 2019 hit “My Type” brought her into the mainstream spotlight with its unmistakable energy. The track, which samples Petey Pablo’s “Freek-a-Leek,” has a catchy hook that quickly became a fan favorite. Its bold, unabashed celebration of self-worth struck a chord with listeners and catapulted the song into the charts. The track reached number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 and went platinum, further cementing Saweetie’s place in the music industry.

Beyond its chart success, “My Type” had a significant cultural impact. It became a summer anthem that dominated clubs, parties, and social media. Fans and influencers used platforms like TikTok to create dance challenges and viral videos, further increasing the song’s impact. The playful yet confident lyrics showcase Saweetie’s talent for combining humor with empowerment. “My Type” exemplifies Saweetie’s ability to make entertaining and empowering music and marks a pivotal moment in her career.

With “Tap In,” Saweetie has rediscovered the essence of her Bay Area roots. She’s delivered a track that’s both a nod to her origins and a testament to her growing influence in hip-hop. Released in 2020, the song samples Too $hort’s classic “Blow the Whistle” and blends nostalgia with a fresh, modern twist. What’s more, “Tap In” quickly became a summer hit. It climbed the Billboard Hot 100 and went platinum. Its production made it a favorite for radio and social media challenges.

Furthermore, the response to “Tap In” extended beyond its chart success. The track’s message resonated with a wide audience, especially those familiar with the Bay Area’s unique sound. “Tap In” celebrates Saweetie’s heritage and ability to bring regional sounds to a global audience, cementing her status as a versatile and influential artist in the contemporary music scene.

“Best Friend” featuring Doja Cat is a vibrant anthem that celebrates friendship and female empowerment. This collaboration between two rising hip-hop stars was released in early 2021 and quickly captured the public’s imagination. The song’s beat, playful lyrics, and undeniable chemistry between Saweetie and Doja Cat made it an instant hit. This track also peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been awarded platinum multiple times.

Moreover, the track’s impact goes beyond its commercial success. “Best Friend” became a phenomenon, inspiring countless TikTok challenges, memes, and social media posts. Its message and fun and lighthearted vibe especially resonated with young women. Saweetie and Doja Cat’s dynamic performance in the music video, full of luxury, humor, and camaraderie, further cemented the song’s place as the feel-good hit of the year. “Best Friend” exemplifies Saweetie’s ability to write fun and meaningful songs, and reinforces her position as a key voice in contemporary hip-hop.

“Back to the Streets” featuring Jhené Aiko shows off Saweetie’s more introspective side. Released in late 2020, this track deviates from her typical high-energy anthems and offers a soft and soulful vibe that highlights her versatility as an artist. The collaboration with Jhené Aiko, known for her ethereal voice and serene presence, adds depth and harmony to the song, making it a standout piece in Saweetie’s discography.

The song’s lyrics tell a story of moving on after a relationship and regaining your independence, and it will speak to anyone who has experienced the difficulties of letting go. Saweetie’s lyrics are thoughtful and encouraging, while Jhené Aiko’s soothing vocals complement the theme perfectly. “Back to the Streets” received critical acclaim for its mature and nuanced approach to themes of self-worth and personal growth. The track expanded Saweetie’s musical range and enhanced her ability to connect with listeners on a deeper emotional level.