BIA’s 5 Biggest Hits & Collaborations

Cardi B’s viral lyric, ‘Name five BIA songs, gun pointin’ to your head,’ sparked a conversation about recognition in the rap game, particularly for women. While the comment was designed to sting, it also highlighted a curiosity about BIA’s actual musical achievements. Her career, built steadily from the margins, includes memorable verses, chart success, and significant collaborations that have solidified her place in the industry.

Crafting a Career: From Sisterhood to Chart Success

BIA’s journey began on ‘Sisterhood of Hip Hop’ and continued as a writer and featured artist, notably signed to Pharrell Williams. Hailing from Boston with Puerto Rican and Italian heritage, her cool, low-toned voice offers a distinct presence in hip-hop. While not always flashy, her calculated collaborations have been key to her rise, including a breakout verse on Russ’s ‘Best On Earth,’ a chart-climbing remix with Nicki Minaj, and a notable feature with J. Cole.

This list celebrates five of BIA’s most impactful songs and collaborations, showcasing her ability to make noise, move numbers, and capture new fans, whether you’re already familiar with her catalog or just discovering her talent.

BIA’s Top 5 Tracks:

1. **1. ‘Whole Lotta Money (Remix)’ Ft. Nicki Minaj (2021):** This collaboration was a game-changer, turning BIA’s original track into a summer anthem. Nicki Minaj’s verse propelled the song to No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking BIA’s first chart entry, and has since garnered over 170 million streams. The track’s viral TikTok moment, with the line ‘I put on my jewelry just to go to the bodega,’ further cemented its cultural impact.
2. **2. ‘London’ With J. Cole (2022):** Featured on her ‘Really Her’ project, this track showcased BIA’s ability to hold her own against J. Cole. The minimalist, UK-Drill-influenced beat provided a smooth backdrop for both artists. Cole’s verse, delivered in a British accent, went viral, but it was BIA’s consistent, signature tone that anchored the record, subtly reversing the usual dynamic where male artists adapt to her sound.
3. **3. ‘Best On Earth’ (Russ Feat. BIA) (2019):** Rihanna’s Instagram post lip-syncing to this track sparked widespread attention for BIA. Though officially Russ’s song, BIA’s calm, confident verse became the standout moment, leading to the track peaking at No. 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 and eventually going Platinum. This collaboration marked her arrival as an artist with a unique pocket.
4. **4. ‘Cover Girl’ (2020):** From her ‘For Certain’ EP, this track is perhaps BIA’s most distilled. Without features or an algorithm-driven hook, her low, unfazed vocal stylings create a luxurious, closed-door atmosphere. The song became a slow-burn anthem in beauty and streetwear circles, with TikTok clips and Instagram influencers syncing it to their content.
5. **5. ‘Skate’ (2020):** Released on the deluxe version of ‘For Certain,’ ‘Skate’ finds BIA at full momentum. The hard-hitting beat and direct lyrics, like ‘If we talking ’bout these levels, I’m the highest in my rank,’ showcase her unadorned style. While it didn’t hit mainstream charts, ‘Skate’ became a fan favorite in underground circles and playlist rotations, proving BIA’s ability to carry a track without needing external validation.

BIA’s catalog proves her hustle hasn’t slowed, with records that have landed in rotation and made a lasting impression. Her career is a testament to staying true to her unique sound and vision, earning her a dedicated fanbase and significant industry recognition.