25 Best R&B Songs Written By Missy Elliott: The Ultimate List

Missy Elliott, a true visionary in the music industry, has not only graced us with her own groundbreaking hits but has also penned some of the most iconic R&B tracks for other artists. Her signature blend of futuristic sounds, catchy hooks, and innovative lyrics has made her one of the most sought-after songwriters and producers in the game. Guys, let's dive into the incredible world of Missy Elliott's songwriting prowess and explore 25 of the best R&B songs she's written for other artists.

1. "Where My Girls At?" - TLC

When we talk about Missy Elliott's songwriting genius, we absolutely have to start with "Where My Girls At?" This track, performed by the iconic girl group TLC, is an anthem for female friendship and empowerment. Released in 1999 as part of TLC's third studio album, FanMail, it quickly climbed the charts and became a massive hit. What makes this song so special? Well, it's the perfect blend of a catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and that signature Missy Elliott touch. The song's production, which Missy co-handled, is a seamless fusion of R&B and hip-hop elements, creating a sound that was both fresh and timeless. Lyrically, “Where My Girls At?” speaks to the importance of female camaraderie and support, a theme that resonates deeply with listeners even today. Think about the opening lines: "Hey, all the girls 'round the world, listen up, it's 'bout that time. For every woman, every girl, to stand up and be heard." It’s an invitation to women everywhere to unite and celebrate their bonds. Missy Elliott’s ability to craft lyrics that are both meaningful and memorable is a testament to her songwriting talent. But it's not just the lyrics; it's the entire vibe of the song. The infectious beat, the harmonies, and the overall energy make you want to grab your besties and hit the dance floor. And let’s not forget the music video, which perfectly captures the song's playful and empowering spirit. The colorful visuals and dynamic choreography add another layer to the song’s appeal, making it a true cultural touchstone of the late '90s. The impact of "Where My Girls At?" on the music industry and pop culture is undeniable. It not only solidified TLC's status as one of the biggest girl groups of all time but also showcased Missy Elliott's versatility and skill as a songwriter and producer. This song paved the way for more female artists to explore themes of female empowerment and solidarity in their music. It's a reminder that music can be both fun and meaningful, and that the bonds between women are something to be celebrated. So, the next time you're hanging out with your girls, crank up "Where My Girls At?" and let the good times roll. This is a timeless classic that will always hold a special place in our hearts.

2. "Hot Boyz" - Missy Elliott ft. Lil' Mo, Nas, Eve & Q-Tip

"Hot Boyz," performed by Missy Elliott, featuring Lil' Mo, Nas, Eve, and Q-Tip, isn't just a song; it's a cultural phenomenon. Released in 1999 as part of her second studio album, Da Real World, this track is a bold and unapologetic celebration of female desire and empowerment. Missy Elliott's genius shines through in every aspect of the song, from its infectious beat to its playful and provocative lyrics. What makes "Hot Boyz" so memorable? First off, the beat is undeniably catchy. It's the kind of track that makes you want to move, whether you're on the dance floor or just cruising in your car. Missy's production skills are on full display here, blending elements of hip-hop, R&B, and funk into a sound that's uniquely her own. The song’s structure is also brilliant, with each verse delivered by a different artist, adding layers of flavor and personality. Lil' Mo's smooth vocals, Nas's lyrical prowess, Eve's fierce delivery, and Q-Tip's smooth flow all complement Missy's own distinctive style. But it’s the lyrics that truly set "Hot Boyz" apart. Missy doesn't shy away from expressing her desires and preferences, creating a refreshing and empowering narrative for women in a genre often dominated by male perspectives. The chorus, "I want a hot boy, a real hot boy, 99 degrees, he got to be hot," is an instant earworm that encapsulates the song's playful and confident vibe. It's a statement of female agency, declaring that women have the right to express their desires without apology. The music video for "Hot Boyz" is just as iconic as the song itself. The futuristic visuals, bold fashion choices, and dynamic choreography perfectly capture the song's energy and attitude. It's a feast for the eyes and a testament to Missy Elliott's creative vision. The video also features cameos from some of the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B, further solidifying the song's status as a cultural event. The impact of "Hot Boyz" on the music industry and pop culture is significant. It not only cemented Missy Elliott's place as a trailblazing artist and producer but also opened the door for more female artists to explore themes of sexuality and empowerment in their music. The song's success demonstrated that there was a hunger for female voices that were both confident and authentic. "Hot Boyz" is more than just a song; it's a statement. It's a celebration of female desire, a testament to Missy Elliott's genius, and a reminder that women can be both powerful and playful. So, turn up the volume and embrace your inner "Hot Boyz" enthusiast. This is a classic that will always make you feel good.

3. "Free Yourself" - Fantasia

"Free Yourself," performed by the incredibly talented Fantasia Barrino, is a powerful anthem of self-discovery and empowerment, and this is another testament to Missy Elliott's songwriting prowess. Released in 2004 as the lead single from Fantasia's debut album of the same name, this track showcases Missy's ability to craft songs that are not only catchy but also deeply meaningful. What makes "Free Yourself" such a standout? It’s the perfect blend of soulful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and a beat that just makes you want to move. Fantasia's voice is the star of the show here, delivering the lyrics with raw emotion and power. She truly embodies the song's message of breaking free from past hurts and embracing a brighter future. But let’s not forget the magic touch of Missy Elliott, who co-wrote and produced the track. Missy’s production is on point, creating a soundscape that’s both contemporary and timeless. The beat is infectious, blending elements of R&B, hip-hop, and gospel into a unique and compelling mix. The lyrics of "Free Yourself" are where the song truly shines. They tell a story of a woman who has been through tough times but is finally ready to let go of the pain and move forward. The chorus, with its soaring vocals and empowering message, is particularly impactful: "Free yourself, let it go, ain't nobody worth your tears. Free yourself, let it go, time to face your fears." It’s a reminder that we all have the strength within us to overcome challenges and create the lives we deserve. The music video for "Free Yourself" is a visual representation of the song’s message. It depicts Fantasia going through a transformation, shedding her past and embracing her future. The imagery is powerful and inspiring, further enhancing the song’s message of self-empowerment. The impact of "Free Yourself" on Fantasia's career and on popular culture is undeniable. It helped launch Fantasia into the spotlight after her American Idol win and established her as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. The song also resonated with listeners around the world, becoming an anthem for anyone who has ever struggled with self-doubt or adversity. "Free Yourself" is more than just a song; it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that we all have the power to change our lives for the better and that we deserve to be happy. So, if you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, take a listen to "Free Yourself" and let its message inspire you. This is a song that will always lift your spirits and remind you of your own inner strength. Missy Elliott's contribution to this track is a testament to her ability to create music that not only entertains but also empowers and uplifts.

4. "One Minute Man" - Missy Elliott ft. Ludacris

"One Minute Man," performed by the one and only Missy Elliott featuring Ludacris, is a bold and unapologetically sexual track that pushes boundaries and challenges societal norms. This song, another gem in Missy Elliott's songwriting and production catalog, was released in 2001 as part of her third studio album, Miss E... So Addictive. It's a song that isn't afraid to be provocative and is a testament to Missy's fearless approach to music. So, what makes "One Minute Man" so iconic? It’s the combination of a killer beat, witty lyrics, and the undeniable chemistry between Missy and Ludacris. Missy’s production is top-notch, creating a soundscape that’s both futuristic and funky. The beat is infectious, with its driving rhythm and catchy hooks, making it impossible not to groove along. The song's lyrics are where it truly shines, though. Missy tackles the topic of sexual satisfaction head-on, addressing the issue of men who are, well, less than stellar in the bedroom. The song's title itself is a playful jab at this phenomenon, and the lyrics are full of clever wordplay and innuendo. "I need a one-minute man, a man that can do it all," Missy declares in the chorus, setting the tone for a song that's both humorous and empowering. Ludacris's verse adds another layer to the song, providing a male perspective on the issue. His playful and charismatic delivery complements Missy's perfectly, creating a dynamic back-and-forth that's both entertaining and engaging. The music video for "One Minute Man" is just as bold and provocative as the song itself. The futuristic visuals, quirky costumes, and playful choreography perfectly capture the song's energy and attitude. It’s a visual feast that further enhances the song's impact. The impact of "One Minute Man" on the music industry and popular culture is significant. It sparked conversations about female sexuality and challenged the traditional power dynamics in relationships. The song's success demonstrated that women could be just as assertive and sexually confident as men in their music. "One Minute Man" is more than just a song; it’s a statement. It’s a celebration of female desire and a reminder that sexual satisfaction is a two-way street. Missy Elliott's fearless approach to this topic paved the way for more artists to explore themes of sexuality and empowerment in their music. So, if you're looking for a song that's both fun and thought-provoking, "One Minute Man" is the perfect choice. Just be prepared to blush a little – and maybe even learn a thing or two. Missy Elliott's ability to create music that's both entertaining and boundary-pushing is what makes her a true icon.

5. "I'm Real (Remix)" - Jennifer Lopez ft. Ja Rule

"I'm Real (Remix)," performed by Jennifer Lopez featuring Ja Rule, is a true early 2000s anthem, and Missy Elliott's songwriting contribution to this track is undeniable. Released in 2001 as part of the re-issue of Lopez's second studio album, J.Lo, this remix took the original song to a whole new level. It's a perfect blend of pop, R&B, and hip-hop, and it cemented Jennifer Lopez's status as a pop superstar. What makes "I'm Real (Remix)" so iconic? It’s the infectious beat, the catchy chorus, and the undeniable chemistry between Jennifer Lopez and Ja Rule. The production is slick and polished, with a driving rhythm that makes you want to dance. The song samples Yellowman's 1982 song "Zungguzungguguzungguzeng," giving it a unique and memorable sound. But it’s the lyrics and the delivery that truly make this song stand out. Jennifer Lopez's vocals are smooth and confident, while Ja Rule's signature gruff delivery adds an edge to the track. The chorus, "I'm real, what you get is what you see," is an affirmation of self-acceptance and authenticity. It's a message that resonates with listeners of all ages, reminding them to embrace their true selves. Missy Elliott's influence on the song is evident in the lyrics and the overall vibe. Her signature blend of sass and swagger is all over this track, giving it a distinctive flavor. While she didn't perform on the song, her songwriting contributions were crucial to its success. The music video for "I'm Real (Remix)" is a quintessential early 2000s visual experience. The fashion, the hairstyles, and the overall aesthetic are a perfect time capsule of the era. The video also showcases Jennifer Lopez's incredible dance skills and her undeniable star power. The impact of "I'm Real (Remix)" on the music industry and pop culture is significant. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became one of the biggest hits of the year. The song helped to solidify the trend of remixing pop songs with hip-hop elements, a formula that would continue to be successful for years to come. "I'm Real (Remix)" is more than just a song; it’s a cultural artifact. It captures the sound and the spirit of the early 2000s perfectly, and it continues to be a crowd-pleaser to this day. Jennifer Lopez and Ja Rule's collaboration on this track is a match made in musical heaven, and Missy Elliott's songwriting contributions helped to make it a true classic. So, if you're feeling nostalgic for the good old days of pop and R&B, crank up "I'm Real (Remix)" and let the memories flood back. This is a song that will always make you feel good and remind you to be true to yourself.

6. "Girlfight" - Lil' Mo ft. Missy Elliott

7. "Turn Off the Lights" - Nelly Furtado

8. "That's What Friends Are For" - Lil' Mo ft. Remy Ma

9. "Oops (Oh My)" - Tweet ft. Missy Elliott

10. "Take Away" - Missy Elliott ft. Ginuwine

11. "Trippin'" - Valerie Davis

12. "X-O-L-O-V-E" - Gina Thompson

13. "I Want You" - Jasmine Guy

14. "Same Ol' Story" - Brooke Valentine

15. "Selfish" - Nicole Wray

16. "Let It Go" - Sharissa

17. "Crazy Chick" - Angie Stone

18. "If I Was Your Girl" - Blaque

19. "Hey Papi" - Jay-Z

20. "So Emotional" - Brooke Valentine

21. "All Nite Long" - Mel B ft. Missy Elliott

22. "Can We Do It Again" - Truth Hurts ft. Missy Elliott

23. "Partytime" - Lil' Kim

24. "Why I Came to California" - Kia Jeffries

25. "Best Friends" - Tamia

Missy Elliott's impact on the R&B landscape is undeniable. Her songwriting and production skills have not only shaped her own career but have also contributed to the success of numerous other artists. These 25 songs are just a glimpse into her incredible talent and her ability to create music that is both innovative and timeless. So, next time you're listening to your favorite R&B hits, take a moment to appreciate the genius of Missy Elliott, the songwriter behind the stars. Guys, let's keep celebrating the music that moves us and the artists who make it happen!