The 12 Songs That Turned Empire Into a Phenomenon
Fox's superhot hit series Empire is still hot in season two — thanks in no small part to the utterly incredible music, which was recognized with its first Grammy nomination. When we're not reveling in how badass Cookie is, we're singing along to the instant classics, like the earth-shattering-for-multiple-reasons "Powerful." It's far from the first song that's gotten stuck in our heads, though, so to recognize all the great original music as the show wraps up for the season this week, we're looking at the best songs of the series so far.
"Drip Drop" by Hakeem
Hakeem's (Bryshere Y. Gray) collaboration with Tiana (Serayah) is both terrible and brilliant. Even if you hate the lyrics and theme, you still won't be able to get "drip drippity drop" out of your head.
"Good Enough" by Jamal
Not only is this song heartbreaking, but it tells you everything you need to know about Jamal's (Jussie Smollett) relationship with his father, Lucious — and Jamal's voice sounds incredible.
"Adios" by Tiana
This sexy, upbeat song is how we meet Tiana — launching Hakeem's (and our) infatuation with her.
"You're So Beautiful" by Lucius, Jamal, Delphine, Hakeem, and Tiana
Lucious Lyon's (Terrence Howard) biggest hit has been played several times in the first season, resulting in us being unable to stop singing "You're so beautiful . . . you're so beautiful . . ." You get it.
"You're So Beautiful" (Jamal's Version)
Yes, this is the same song — but this version is so different and so good. It's the song that Jamal uses to come out to the world — and you'll get goosebumps listening to it again.
"Live in the Moment" by Hakeem and Jamal
You may not remember this one as well since it was in the pilot (it opens the show), but it's one of the best songs — and the perfect collaboration between brothers Hakeem and Jamal.
"Keep Your Money" by Jamal
Jamal's ultimate tell-off to his dad tells him he doesn't need Lucious's support (not that he doesn't want it).
"Conqueror" by Delphine and Jamal
Jamal is courting Delphine (guest star Estelle) for Empire, and in doing so, they perform this megapowerful duet.
"Lola" by Jamal
Jamal's brief time with his "daughter" Lola ended up being bittersweet fraud, but his feelings for the little girl were real. Witness the adorable song he wrote for her.
"Nothing to Lose" by Lucious and Jamal
This powerful duet is the first time we see this father and son pair really collaborate, and it's electrifying. Very fitting for the season finale.
"No Doubt About It" by Jamal and Pitbull
Pitbull appears on this fun party jam that's so popular it's a radio hit.
"Powerful" by Skye and Jamal
Talk about powerful — this gorgeous duet inspires such chemistry between Skye Summers (Alicia Keys) and Jamal that they kiss!