Tyler, The Creator is one of the most fascinating artists of our time. From his early days as the leader of the controversial Odd Future collective to his evolution into a Grammy-winning solo artist, Tyler’s music has continuously defied expectations. What makes Tyler stand out isn't just his unique sound but his ability to grow and change with each album. He’s unapologetically himself, whether he’s making experimental beats, rapping about love and heartbreak, or exploring his deepest insecurities. For those who are new to Tyler or long-time fans, these 10 songs showcase the range of his talent and how he’s constantly reinventing his artistry.

1. Yonkers (Goblin, 2011)

When Tyler, The Creator released Goblin in 2011, “Yonkers” immediately became a defining moment in his career. The song was a bold statement, featuring a haunting piano riff and Tyler’s raw, confrontational lyrics. He raps about his inner demons, self-loathing, and the struggle of finding his identity. The music video, where Tyler famously eats a cockroach, added to the unsettling atmosphere of the track. “Yonkers” wasn’t just a song—it was a manifesto of who Tyler was at the time: aggressive, raw, and unapologetically real.

This track was Tyler’s breakthrough into the mainstream, introducing the world to his unfiltered perspective. The song’s eerie production and Tyler’s intense delivery made it impossible to ignore. It also set the tone for the kind of artist Tyler would become—someone who would continuously challenge both himself and his audience with every release.

2. See You Again (Flower Boy, 2017)

By the time Tyler released Flower Boy in 2017, he had already evolved into a more introspective and melodic artist. "See You Again" marked a major shift in his sound, blending elements of smooth R&B with lush, dreamy production. Featuring Kali Uchis, whose smooth voice complements Tyler’s airy falsetto, “See You Again” is a bittersweet song about longing, love, and desire. The lyrics explore the yearning for a relationship that might never come to fruition, but the track is more than just a love song. It’s a deeply emotional piece that touches on themes of vulnerability and self-discovery.

For many, this was the moment Tyler proved he could make more than just aggressive rap music—he could create something beautiful and vulnerable. “See You Again” became an instant favorite for its gentle yet poignant delivery, and it marked the beginning of Tyler’s exploration of romantic and emotional themes, a thread that would continue in later albums.

3. EARFQUAKE (IGOR, 2019)

If there’s one track that defines Tyler’s IGOR era, it’s “EARFQUAKE.” The song was a major hit, thanks to its infectious beat and Tyler’s unorthodox approach to vocals. It blends elements of funk, pop, and electronic music, with Tyler singing in a falsetto that’s emotionally charged. The song addresses the turmoil of a toxic relationship, and the hook—“You make my earth quake”—sums up the emotional chaos Tyler is experiencing. Despite its upbeat vibe, the lyrics are drenched in pain, highlighting the push and pull of love and heartbreak.

The magic of “EARFQUAKE” lies in how it balances joy and sadness in a way that feels both experimental and relatable. The song’s success proves that Tyler can blend accessibility with his signature experimental style. It's a pop anthem that carries real emotional weight, and it remains one of his most iconic tracks.

4. Who Dat Boy (Flower Boy, 2017)

“Who Dat Boy” is a complete contrast to the mellow vibes of "See You Again," but it’s just as memorable. The song is a high-energy banger from Flower Boy that features a guest verse from A$AP Rocky. The track opens with a quirky beat that soon turns into an adrenaline-pumping anthem. Tyler’s verses are full of confidence, asking the rhetorical question, “Who dat boy?” as he reflects on his place in the rap game and his evolution as an artist.

The song’s brashness is part of what makes it so compelling. Tyler embraces his newfound fame with a sense of humor and swagger, and it’s a perfect example of his ability to go from deeply emotional tracks to ones that are just plain fun. “Who Dat Boy” is also a nod to his growing versatility, as it blends hip-hop and experimental sounds with a mainstream appeal that resonates with a wide audience.

5. Smuckers (Cherry Bomb, 2015)

Cherry Bomb was one of Tyler’s most chaotic and experimental projects, and “Smuckers” is one of the standout tracks. Featuring Lil Wayne and Kanye West, the song’s production is a blend of jazz, punk, and trap. Tyler’s verse is as brash as ever, but there’s also a sense of playfulness to it. The chemistry between Tyler, Kanye, and Wayne is undeniable, and the song feels like an all-out celebration of the hip-hop world they inhabit.

“Smuckers” is one of those tracks that shows off Tyler’s growth as an artist—he’s not just playing in one genre anymore; he’s bending and blending different styles to create something new and exciting. The track is a reminder of Tyler’s ability to balance experimentation with accessibility, making it both a personal and widely appealing song.

6. New Magic Wand (IGOR, 2019)

Another standout from IGOR, “New Magic Wand” is a darker, more intense track that explores obsession and the dangers of trying to control a relationship. The song’s production is hypnotic, with its distorted synths and jarring beats creating a feeling of unease. Tyler’s voice is distorted as well, reflecting the emotional chaos of trying to hold onto something that’s slipping away. The song builds in intensity, with Tyler’s frantic vocals mirroring the turmoil he’s experiencing.

“New Magic Wand” is one of the most powerful tracks on IGOR, and it’s a perfect example of Tyler’s ability to convey complex emotions through production and vocal manipulation. It’s a song that pulls you in and doesn’t let go, leaving you with a sense of emotional exhaustion by the time it ends.

7. The Brown Stains of Darkeese Latifah Part 6-12 (Goblin, 2011)

For fans of Tyler’s early work, “The Brown Stains of Darkeese Latifah Part 6-12” is a quintessential track. It’s weird, raw, and totally unapologetic, much like the rest of Goblin. The song is filled with absurd humor, shocking lyrics, and an overall sense of chaos. It’s a reflection of the mindset Tyler had when he first burst onto the scene—angry, unpredictable, and determined to do things his way, no matter how uncomfortable it might make people feel.

While “The Brown Stains” may not be for everyone, it’s a perfect example of the kind of unfiltered artist Tyler was at the time. It’s provocative and bizarre, but it’s also a snapshot of Tyler’s early approach to music—unafraid to be controversial and willing to take risks in both his lyrics and production.

8. Bastard (Bastard, 2009)

The title track from Bastard, Tyler’s debut album, is a raw and confessional song about his troubled upbringing. The production is minimal, and Tyler’s lyrics are deeply personal, dealing with themes like abandonment, anger, and mental health. There’s a sense of isolation in “Bastard,” and the track captures the pain and confusion that Tyler was experiencing at the time. The song is unflinchingly honest, and it sets the tone for the entire album.

“Bastard” is one of the most emotionally raw songs in Tyler’s catalog. It’s a powerful introduction to his artistry and gives fans a glimpse into the experiences that shaped him as an artist. The song shows Tyler’s vulnerability, and it’s clear from the start that he’s not afraid to confront his darkest feelings.

9. A Boy Is A Gun (IGOR, 2019)

Another gem from IGOR, “A Boy Is A Gun” is an emotionally complex track that explores the intersection of love and danger. The song’s production is atmospheric and haunting, with Tyler’s processed vocals adding to the ethereal quality of the track. The song addresses the tension between love and pain, as Tyler sings about a relationship that feels both exhilarating and destructive.

The haunting beauty of “A Boy Is A Gun” lies in its ability to capture the complexities of love in a way that feels raw and real. The song is one of the highlights of IGOR, showcasing Tyler’s ability to blend vulnerability with experimental production. It’s a standout track on an album full of them.



10. Glitter (Flower Boy, 2017)

Finally, we close with “Glitter,” a track from Flower Boy that’s as sweet and introspective as it is heartbreaking. The song’s soft, shimmering production is paired with Tyler’s tender vocals, creating a sense of warmth and hope. "Glitter" is about the intoxicating nature of love and the desire to hold onto something beautiful and fleeting. It’s a moment of sincerity and softness in a career that’s been full of intense and often challenging material.

“Glitter” is a beautiful, reflective track that highlights Tyler’s ability to create emotional depth through simplicity. It’s one of those songs that sticks with you, leaving a lingering feeling of longing and wonder.