The letter X definitely carries that sense of mystery or intensity in music. Despite being an uncommon first letter, some artists have created some memorable tracks starting with it.
What’s interesting is that these songs span decades and genres, from rock to pop to hip-hop.
However, the X prefix sometimes gives these songs an edgy quality or marks them as different from an artist’s usual work.
1. X Gon’ Give It To Ya
This electrifying track by DMX is a defining anthem of early 2000s hip-hop. X Gon’ Give It To Ya is known for its aggressive beats, bold lyrics, and motivational energy.
The song became a cultural phenomenon that is often featured in movies and media, showcasing DMX’s unparalleled intensity and charisma.
Attribute | Details |
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Released | February 18, 2003 |
Album | Verzuz: DMX x Snoop Dogg (2020) |
Writers | DMX, Swizz Beatz & Shatek |
Producers | Shatek |
2. XO
John Mayer’s XO is a heartfelt edition that shows his signature blend of emotional depth and musical craftsmanship.
The song showcases Mayer’s ability to reinterpret themes of love and connection through soulful melodies and intricate guitar arrangements, making it a standout in his discography.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | May 27, 2014 |
Album | Single |
Writers | Beyoncé, The-Dream & Ryan Tedder |
Producers | John Mayer |
3. X
X by Nicky Jam and J Balvin is a vibrant reggaeton hit that took the world by storm upon its release. With its tropical rhythms and infectious beats, the track expresses the playful energy of Latin music.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | March 2, 2018 |
Album | Intimo (2019) |
Writers | Jeon, Juan Diego Medina, J Balvin, Nicky Jam, Rashid Mohamed Siddiq Badloe, Shareef Mohamed Rachmet & Giordano Mohamed Sharif Ahruf |
Producers | Afro Bros & Jeon |
4. Xscape
Michael Jackson’s Xscape, released posthumously, highlights the King of Pop’s timeless artistry.
Featuring unique production and his legendary vocals, the track combines contemporary sounds with Jackson’s signature style, showcasing his ability to remain relevant across generations.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | May 13, 2014 |
Album | Xscape (Deluxe) |
Writers | Michael Jackson, Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins III, LaShawn Daniels, & Harvey Mason Jr |
Producers | Rodney Jerkins |
5. X-Factor
Lauryn Hill’s X-Factor, from her critically acclaimed album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, is a soulful expression of heartbreak and self-improvement.
This song relates deeply with listeners, solidifying Hill’s status as one of music’s most compelling storytellers.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | December 14, 1998 |
Album | The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998) |
Writers | Lauryn Hill, Alan Bergman, Marilyn Bergman, RZA, GZA, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Method Man, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, Inspectah Deck & U-God |
Producers | Lauryn Hill |
6. Xanadu
Xanadu is a timeless collaboration between Olivia Newton-John and the Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), featured in the 1980 film of the same name.
This song mixes Newton-John’s soaring vocals with ELO’s signature orchestral rock, creating a magical and dreamy anthem that has endured across decades.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | June 6, 1980 |
Album | Gold (2005) |
Writers | Jeff Lynne |
Producers | Jeff Lynne |
7. X-Static
X-Static is a pivotal track from the Foo Fighters’ self-titled. Grohl has mentioned that X-Static is one of the few ways he can express both grief and happiness, making it a deeply personal piece.
With its smooth sound and emotional depth, X-Static showcases Foo Fighters’ ability to craft energetic and emotionally affecting songs.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | July 4, 1995 |
Album | Foo Fighters (Rough Mixes) |
Writers | Dave Grohl |
Producers | Barrett Jones & Dave Grohl |
8. X’s We Share
X’s We Share is a soulful R&B track from Jodeci’s debut album Forever My Lady. The song is a heartfelt expression of love and appreciation, focusing on the cherished moments shared between two people.
With its smooth harmonies and emotive delivery, X’s We Share showcases Jodeci’s ability to craft romantic and intimate ballads that relate deeply with listeners.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | May 28, 1991 |
Album | Forever My Lady |
Writers | DeVante Swing |
Producers | DeVante Swing |
9. Xplosion
This high-energy hip-hop track is known for its power beats and clever lyricism, showcasing the duo’s style and charismatic delivery.
The song depicts the essence of Southern rap with its bold sound and rhythmic intensity.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | October 31, 2000 |
Album | Stankonia (Deluxe Version) |
Writers | André 3000, Big Boi, B-Real, Mr. DJ & Witchdoctor |
Producers | Earthtone III |
10. Xo Tour Llif3
Xo Tour Llif3 by Lil Uzi Vert is a melodic hip-hop track that gained significant attention for its emotive lyrics and hook.
The song Lil Uzi Vert’s ability to combine melancholy themes with upbeat production makes it a standout in contemporary rap.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | February 26, 2017 |
Album | Luv Is Rage 2 (Deluxe) |
Writers | Lil Uzi Vert, TM88 & JW Lucas |
Producers | TM88 & JW Lucas |
11. Xoxo
XOXO (Kisses Hugs) is a bold and electrifying hyperpop track. The song combines edgy lyrics with pulsating beats, creating a dark yet danceable atmosphere that depicts the essence of underground rave culture.
With themes of rebellion, glamour, and excess, the track vividly portrays nightlife decadence, blending provocative imagery with infectious hooks.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | September 19, 2022 |
Album | Myspace Addiction |
Writers | 6arelyhuman & horrormovies |
Producers | Pixel Hood |
12. X Offender
X Offender is Blondie’s debut single, released in June 1976 as part of their self-titled album. Originally titled Sex Offender, the song was reworked by Debbie Harry to tell the story of a prostitute falling for the police officer who arrests her.
The track combines punk energy with a retro 1960s girl-group vibe, showcasing Blondie’s ability to mix edgy themes with the melodies.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | June 17, 1976 |
Album | The Platinum Collection |
Writers | Debbie Harry & Gary Valentine |
Producers | Richard Gottehrer & Craig Leon |
13. X.Y.U.
X.Y.U. is a dark and intense track from Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness by The Smashing Pumpkins. The song contrasts heavy guitar riffs with Billy Corgan’s emotionally charged vocals.
It expresses themes of anger, betrayal, and despair, making it one of the most visceral tracks in the band’s catalog.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | October 23, 1995 |
Album | Mellon Collie and The Infinite Sadness (Deluxe Edition) |
Writers | Billy Corgan |
Producers | Flood, Alan Moulder & Billy Corgan |
14. X-Girlfriend
Musically, X-Girlfriend is characterized by its punk sound, drawing comparisons to bands like The Ramones.
The track’s fast-paced rhythm and energetic feel portray Bush’s early days as a band, when they were heavily affected by the grunge and post-grunge movements of the 1990s.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | December 6, 1994 |
Album | Sixteen Stone |
Writers | Gavin Rossdale |
Producers | Clive Langer, Alan Winstanley & Bush |
15. X-Static Process
Static Process is a song by Madonna, released on her eighth studio album, Music. The song has a techno-infused sound and features synthesizers, drum machines, and processed vocal samples.
Lyrically, the song explains themes of technology and its power over our lives. The chorus is repetitive, and with Madonna singing, “X-static process, X-static process.”
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | April 21, 2003 |
Album | American Life (2003) |
Writers | Stuart Price & Madonna |
Producers | Mirwais Ahmadzaï & Madonna |
16. X-Kid
X-Kid is a touching track on loss and growing older. With its heartfelt lyrics and driving punk-rock energy, the song depicts a sense of dream and regret while maintaining the band’s signature sound.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | December 7, 2012 |
Album | ¡Uno…Dos…Tré! |
Writers | Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt & Tré Cool |
Producers | Rob Cavallo, Billie Joe Armstrong, Jason White, Mike Dirnt & Tré Cool |
17. Xerces
Xerces by Deftones is a hauntingly beautiful track from their Saturday Night Wrist album. Known for its atmospheric soundscapes and impressive lyrics, the song explains themes of isolation and existential crisis.
Chino Moreno’s ethereal vocals paired with layered instrumentation make this track a standout in the Deftones’ discography.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | October 31, 2006 |
Album | The Studio Album Collection |
Writers | Deftones |
Producers | Bob Ezrin & Deftones |
18. X-Ray Visions
X-Ray Visions by Clutch is a high-energy rock track from their album Psychic Warfare. The song tells a surreal story filled with vivid imagery and sci-fi undertones.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | July 29, 2015 |
Album | Psychic Warfare |
Writers | Neil Fallon, Dan Maines, Jean-Paul Gaster & Tim Sult |
Producers | Gene “Machine” Freeman |
19. X Marks the Spot
X Marks the Spot is a hidden gem on Coldplay’s A Head Full of Dreams album. This experimental track blends electronic beats with Chris Martin’s soft lyrics, with the themes of self-improvement and hope.
Its production and layered sound showcase Coldplay’s willingness to push creative boundaries while maintaining their signature uplifting style.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | December 4, 2015 |
Album | Single |
Writers | Will Champion, Guy Berryman, Jonny Buckland & Chris Martin |
Producers | Daniel Green, Stargate & Rik Simpson |
20. X-Tasy
It is a dreamy, atmospheric track that blends lush soundscapes with smooth lyrics, creating an indie rock experience.
Its layered textures and emotive melodies invite listeners into an immersive musical path.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Released | January 31, 2016 |
Album | To Where You Are |
Writers | Thomas Luke Strahot, Kaitlyn Ciri & Clinton J Sargen |
Producers | The High Violets |
21. Xtal
Xtal is the opening track on Aphex Twin’s debut album Selected Ambient Works 85–92.
The song features dreamy synths and subtle vocal samples that create a mesmerizing listening experience.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | August 7, 2024 |
Album | Single |
Writers | Aphex Twin |
Producers | Zanthin & Aphex Twin |
22. XXXO
This song blends electronic beats with pop inspirations, showcasing M.I.A.’s ability to create socially conscious music that remains accessible and danceable.
Its infectious hook and layered production make it a standout in her discography.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | May 11, 2010 |
Album | /\/\ /\ Y /\ |
Writers | M.I.A., Cherry Byron-Withers & Charles Smith |
Producers | Blaqstarr & Rusko |
23. XXX Funk
XXX Funk by Funkdoobiest is a classic hip-hop track that highlights the group’s funky beats and playful lyricism.
Known for their West Coast style, Funkdoobiest combines smooth grooves with clever wordplay, making this song a fun and energetic addition to the golden era of hip-hop.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | July 4, 1995 |
Album | Brothas Doobie (1995) |
Writers | FunkDoobiest |
Producers | DJ Muggs & DJ Ralph M |
24. Xtra Cool
Xtra Cool by Young Jonn is an Afrobeat hit that captures the artist’s knack for blending infectious rhythms with relatable lyrics.
The song showcases Young Jonn’s smooth vocals and ability to craft melodies that relate to listeners, making it a favorite in contemporary African music.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | September 23, 2022 |
Album | Love Is Not Enough, Vol. 2 |
Writers | Young Jonn |
Producers | Reward Beatz |
25. XXX
XXX from Kendrick Lamar’s critically acclaimed album DAMN., features U2 and discusses the themes of violence, social injustice, and spirituality.
The track combines Lamar’s intense lyricism with U2’s atmospheric instrumentation, creating a powerful commentary on societal issues. Its structure and thought-provoking content make it one of the standout tracks on the album.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Released | April 14, 2017 |
Album | DAMN. |
Writers | The Edge (Guitarist), Bono, Larry Mullen Jr., Adam Clayton, Top Dawg, Sounwave, Dahi, Mike WiLL Made-It & Kendrick Lamar |
Producers | Mike WiLL Made-It, Sounwave, Dahi, Top Dawg & Bēkon |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Songs that Use the Letter X Symbolically?
Yes, songs like X Gon’ Give It To Ya and Xscape use the letter X to symbolize intensity or change, showing the song’s themes and messages.
How Can I Find More Songs that Start with The Letter X?
You can search music platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music, which often have playlists dedicated to songs starting with specific letters.
Are There Any Hip-Hop Songs That Start with The Letter X?
Yes, notable hip-hop tracks include Gon’ Give It To Ya by DMX and X by 21 Savage and Metro Boomin.