In the wake of the recent police killings of Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge and Philando Castile in Minnesota, the hip-hop community has taken a stand like never before. Sharing their thoughts on social media and through different media outlets, rappers of all sorts have stepped up to express their concern with the current state of police brutality towards men and women of color. Many have even spoken out on the recent incidents by creating songs responding to the tragic events and hoping for a better tomorrow through their lyrics.

One rapper in particular who didn't waste any time in addressing the situation with a song was none other than mogul and rap superstar Jay Z. Last Thursday (July 7), the 46-year-old rapper released "Spiritual," a track he dropped for free on his Tidal service. On the song, Hov expresses his condolences for the lives lost due to police brutality. "Yeah, I am not poison, no I am not poison/Just a boy from the hood that/Got my hands in the air/In despair don't shoot," he raps.

Jay isn't the only hip-hop act to step up and speak on the recent shootings at the hands of police. Swizz Beatz teamed up with the legendary Texas MC Scarface to create the heartfelt "Sad News" and rapper Z-Ro partnered with renowned producer Mike Dean to create the anthem "No Justice No Peace."

As the U.S. still deals with unlawful police brutality occurring society, the hip-hop community continues its protest and support of the Black Lives Matter movement. Today, XXL rounds up the eight songs that have been released since the tragic killings of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling in light of recent police shootings.

  • "Spiritual"

    Jay Z

  • “No Justice No Peace”

    Z-Ro and Mike Dean
  • "Riot"

    Young Buck
  • "My Friend"

    Chris Brown
  • “6 Shots”

    Mistah F.A.B.
  • "IDKY"

    Slim Thug
  • "Sad News"

    Swizz Beatz Feat. Scarface
  • "Enuff"

    Young Lito

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