15 Best Kanye West Tracks

10. Flashing Lights (Graduation)

Best Line: "Ordered the hor d'oeurves views of the water, straight from the page of your favorite author" Kanye has always been known as more of a producer than a rapper, and Flashing Lights turns that intended insult into a compliment. It's not easy making supremely catchy beats, but Mr. West has never failed in that regard and tying it all together with a great hook is icing on the cake. Unlike many critics I don't view Flashing Lights as Graduation's highlight, but it is probably the most memorable track on the album and it is a guarantee to be stuck in your head after every time you hear it. The music video for the song also broke some ground as Kanye co-directed it with Being John Malkovich helmer Spike Jonze, which lead the way for a few experimental films made by Kanye. What makes Flashing Lights so great is its distinctive sound, even though it has now been remixed and remade so many times that its freshness has been forcibly removed somewhat. A common criticism of dance music is that due to the similar beat pattern it all sounds the same, but Flashing Lights distinguishes itself with its great string opening followed by the impressive hook and synth beat.