Top 10 Best Rappers of All Time
Rap music is a genre that started off as an underground movement and has now become a global powerhouse, influencing everything from fashion to social justice. Born in the late '70s in the streets of the Bronx, rap has gone through countless evolutions, from its old-school roots to the lyrical complexity and beats of today. And let's not forget the icons who have emerged, wielding their mics like wands and captivating the world with their wordplay, flow, and stories.Whether you're a fan of the Golden Age legends, the '90s luminaries, or the modern-day poets, your vote is crucial in creating this list of the best rappers of all time. This isn't just a list. It's a salute to the individuals who have taken rap to unbelievable heights, mastering their craft and changing the game in unimaginable ways.
So go ahead, cast your vote and have your say in shaping a list that aims to honor the MCs who have forever shaped the landscape of music and culture.
Eminem, also known as Marshall Mathers, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. He first gained mainstream popularity with his second album, "The Slim Shady LP," which won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album in 1999. Eminem is known for his controversial and often dark lyrics, which touch on subjects such as drug addiction, poverty, and family issues. He has sold over 150 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Best flow, best lyrics, best beats, best singing, best voice, best rapper ever - he's the best artist ever. Both of his personalities, Slim Shady and Marshall Mathers, are great to listen to. He has a song for whatever mood you're in. If you need to get pumped up, listen to Till I Collapse.
Eminem is easily number 1. His first three albums (SSLP, MMLP, and The Eminem Show) introduced rap fans to a style never heard before. His metaphors and wordplay are crazy, and his lyrics are probably the best ever.
He was the first rapper to blow up from the underground battling scene, and he always talks about real issues, unlike Wayne and all the other mainstream rappers. Hell, The Sequel is going to be insane! SHADY 4 LIFE!
Tupac Shakur, also known by his stage name 2Pac, was an American rapper and actor. He is considered one of the most influential and iconic rappers of all time. Tupac's music often addressed social and political issues, including poverty, racism, and police brutality. He released several critically acclaimed albums, including "All Eyez on Me" and "Me Against the World." Tupac was also known for his acting roles in films such as "Poetic Justice" and "Above the Rim." He was tragically shot and killed in 1996 at the age of 25. Enough said! Tupac's a community dude. Rapping for the people, it doesn't get better than that. Eminem is great, agreed! But Tupac gives a whole new meaning to what rapping is supposed to be about.
I agree. Listening to Tupac's music is like a journey through his life and thoughts. By the way, I started listening to Tupac a while after he died. Actually, I started listening to Eminem first.
Tupac treats rap as what it should be: an art form, not just entertainment. Poetry, not nursery rhymes. Intellect, more so than wit. Even in his casual songs strictly for entertainment, he still displays a tremendous level of talent. He is immensely passionate about his poetry and has something real to say.
Tupac will forever be the greatest rapper ever... Period! Followed by Nas...
The Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls, was an American rapper and songwriter. He is considered one of the greatest rappers of all time and is known for his storytelling ability and intricate rhymes. His debut album "Ready to Die" was a critical and commercial success and is widely regarded as a hip-hop classic. The Notorious B.I.G. was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting in 1997 at the age of 24. His raps are genius. You can actually picture what he's saying. Story to Tell and Hypnotize are his top songs.
Sorry, it's a disgrace that Lil Wayne is put above him. Long live the flow. Biggie was to the East Coast what 2Pac was to the West Coast. Biggie released the hip hop classics "Ready to Die" and "Life After Death" and became a hip hop icon.
He changed the way an MC flows and stopped everyone in their tracks when he dropped his verse on "Notorious Thugs," using the Bone Thugs style better than they did themselves. Also, one of the great storytellers in hip hop, The Notorious One had every element an MC could dream of. He would have easily been number one if not for his untimely death in 1997.
Nas, born Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones, is an American rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur. He is considered one of the greatest rappers of all time, known for his vivid storytelling and socially conscious lyrics. Nas has released several critically acclaimed albums, including "Illmatic" and "It Was Written," which are considered hip-hop classics. He has also been involved in various business ventures, including a record label and a clothing line. The best lyricist and storyteller of all time, coming from the biggest project complex in the United States, Nas is the epitome of the streets, and hip-hop is the word of the streets. He dropped out of middle school and was forced to educate himself, putting him on a whole other level than other rappers.
He is the best rapper because he truly has grown with his music. Listen to the music, and you cannot deny that Nas is the best rapper of all time.
Nas is a living legend. Although he has had a few upsetting albums (I Am... and Nastradamus), Nas has shown strength to come back from these upsets along with his beef with Jay-Z. His debut, Illmatic, is the most brilliant example of pure rap talent in regards to storytelling and poetry.
Since Nas' comeback, he has released excellent titles which continue to showcase the artist's lyrical greatness such as Stillmatic, God's Son, Hip Hop Is Dead, Street's Disciple, Untitled, and the recent classic Life Is Good. Nas' reign will forever live on in the rap game, although he may not be mentioned as much in the mainstream media as his past rival Jay-Z.
Jay-Z, born Shawn Corey Carter, is an American rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur. He is one of the most successful and influential rappers of all time, with numerous hit albums and singles. Jay-Z is also known for his business ventures, including co-founding the record label Roc-A-Fella Records and launching the streaming service Tidal. He is married to the singer Beyonce and is also involved in philanthropic efforts. Jay-Z is not only one of the best rappers still in the game, but he's also one of the most successful men on this planet. Coming from the streets, he turned himself into a businessman. He's discovered most of the greatest talents in the industry today. He discovered Kanye. Nobody thought Kanye could rap until Hova supported him. Jay has been putting music out for the past 19 years. What rapper can stay relevant for that long? This dude is in his 40s. And with age, his lyrics have grown. He went from a '90s thug, making freestyles about killing cops with Big L, to being one of the most influential artists in pop culture today.
Listen to one song on Magna Carta Holy Grail, and you'll be scratching your head at the lyrics. You look up what he's talking about, and you realize that Jay-Z is a lyricist like no other. He's getting to the point where his music is almost art. Can he spit fast like Eminem? No, but he's got a style that surpasses speed. And the only reason Tupac and Biggie are above him is because they were good rappers and they died. Not taking away from them, but people treat them like martyrs because they got shot, and they think their preserved lyrics are gold. Jay-Z, in my opinion, is sitting on the rap game.
Dr. Dre, born Andre Romelle Young, is an American rapper, record producer, and entrepreneur. He first gained fame as a member of the rap group N.W.A., and later launched a successful solo career. Dr. Dre is also known for his work as a record producer, producing albums for artists such as Snoop Dogg and Eminem. He is considered one of the greatest hip-hop producers of all time, and has won several Grammy Awards for his work. Dr. Dre has also been involved in various business ventures, including co-founding the headphone company Beats by Dre. Alright, Dr. Dre has definitely contributed the most to hip-hop out of everyone on this list by far. To start off, he made two of the most classic rap albums ever: 2001 and The Chronic. Anyone who disagrees just has to listen to them. He was also part of the best rap group ever, NWA. Moreover, he made the careers of Game, Eminem, 50 Cent, Snoop, and even contributed to Nas' career. He is widely known as the best producer/beatmaker ever. He is the best rapper alive.
Dre should definitely be higher up. He is the most influential rapper ever, with classics like 2001 and The Chronic. My two favorite songs of all time are Nuthin' but a G Thang and Still D.R.E. I've looked down this list and seen Will Smith, Lil Wayne, Chris Brown, Drake, John Cena, Soulja Boy, etc., which just makes this a joke of a list straight away! This frustrates me! DETOX!
Kendrick Lamar is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. He is known for his socially conscious and introspective lyrics, as well as his unique style of blending jazz, funk, and spoken word into his music. Kendrick Lamar has released several critically acclaimed albums, including "good kid, m.A.A.d city" and "To Pimp a Butterfly," which have been praised for their storytelling and political messages. He has won numerous awards, including several Grammy Awards, and is considered one of the greatest rappers of his generation. 78? This must be a joke, right? Kendrick is one of, if not the most, talked-about artists at the moment. After releasing a brilliant album, Section.80, he signed with Dr. Dre to Aftermath and just recently put out his major label debut, good kid, m.A.A.d city. That album is a future classic.
Honestly, Kendrick's style is very similar to 2Pac's. He has deep lyrics with meaning, which make him easy to relate to. The one thing Kendrick has that 2Pac didn't really have is the potential to be one of the greatest lyricists of all time. Not to mention his crazy and unique flow/delivery. Kendrick is the future and is sure to be one of the best by the time he's done. Mark my words.
Rakim, also known as William Michael Griffin Jr., is an American rapper and songwriter. He is considered one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time. Rakim's music often features intricate rhyme schemes and smooth flow, and he is known for his philosophical and introspective lyrics. He first gained recognition as part of the duo Eric B. & Rakim, and has released several solo albums throughout his career. He has been cited as a major influence by many other rappers, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012. Rakim's style, flow, delivery, lyrics, and versatility are not only unmatched, but they also laid the blueprint for true lyricists and changed the way everyone viewed hip hop and flowed. He is responsible for the modern-day flow of rappers and the standard by which everyone is judged today. That's why the hip hop artists themselves call him the "GOD," not just the GOAT when it comes to lyrics, and no one has ever challenged him on the mic.
Keep in mind that Biggie, Pac, Eminem, and others today are using his style, and he did it back in 1986. Truly, the GOD on the MIC.
Ice Cube, also known as O'Shea Jackson Sr., is an American rapper, actor, and filmmaker. He first gained popularity as a member of the rap group N.W.A., which was known for its controversial and politically charged lyrics. Ice Cube later pursued a solo career, releasing several critically acclaimed albums such as "AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted" and "Death Certificate." He is also known for his acting roles in films such as "Boyz n the Hood," "Friday," and "Are We There Yet?" Ice Cube is considered one of the pioneers of gangsta rap, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time. Ice Cube is a legend. He can be considered one of the best overall, as he possesses a well-balanced flow, voice, beat, pitch, lyrics, and rhymes. He has a lot of original material. Ice Cube and Dre must excel at piano, while other rappers play different instruments, as the musical notes in many of his songs are impressive.
He continues to be one of the best, showcasing clever rhymes. For example, in Straight Outta Compton, he delivers two rhymes in each line, mostly comparing it to MC Ren and Eazy-E in a more complete word manner, whereas Ren and Eazy-E have syllable rounding in their verses. In his latest album, he maintains consistency, as he has always done. Ice Cube is also one of the masters of diss tracks, showcasing his well-rounded talent.
Snoop Dogg, also known as Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. He first gained popularity in the early 1990s with his debut album "Doggystyle," which became a commercial and critical success. Snoop Dogg's music often features laid-back beats and his unique rapping style, which is characterized by his drawled-out vocals. He has released numerous albums throughout his career, and has collaborated with a wide range of artists from different genres. Snoop Dogg is also known for his acting roles in films such as "Training Day" and "Starsky & Hutch." He's very world-famous, probably one of the faces of this rap era.
He's Snoop Dogg. Wayne, Kanye, and even Eminem wouldn't know how to freestyle without Snoop.
Snoop Dogg is awesome. In terms of putting out albums for his fans, Snoop Dogg is very consistent, and I believe that he thoroughly enjoys what he does, being a rapper. His flow is great, and his natural ability to rap is extremely smooth. If there's anyone that belongs in the "rap hall of fame," it's most certainly Snoop.
The Newcomers
Thomas "Tom" MacDonald (born September 21, 1988) is a Canadian rapper, songwriter, and former wrestler who first rose to fame after the release of his song "Dear Rappers" and has had three songs that have appeared in the Billboard Hot 100 since then. Great rapper who speaks nothing but facts.
Hated because he's controversial.
One of the sexiest rappers in existence.
Kanye West is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. He is known for his innovative and experimental music, blending different genres such as hip-hop, R&B, and rock. Kanye has released several critically acclaimed albums, including "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" and "Yeezus." He is also known for his outspoken and controversial personality, often making headlines for his public statements and actions. Kanye has also been involved in fashion design and has launched his own clothing line. It can't get any better than Kanye West. He's a lyrical genius and always knows what he stands for. He's not like any other artist out there - his mind runs wild with art and creativity. He never stops, no matter what.
The media seems to label him as heartless, an ass, and garbage, but he's nothing like that. You need to look beyond the surface. Listen to Last Call on The College Dropout album. You'll definitely see him differently after checking that out, in a good way.
The College Dropout and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy are two of my favorite albums by him. Just because he never really talks about living in the hood or having a tough childhood doesn't mean he's not full of knowledge or doesn't know how to rap. He's a very talented musician - you just have to look beyond the image the media presents.
50 Cent, born Curtis James Jackson III, is an American rapper, actor, and entrepreneur. He first gained popularity with his debut album "Get Rich or Die Tryin'," which was a commercial and critical success. 50 Cent is known for his aggressive and confrontational style, and has sold over 30 million albums worldwide. He has also been involved in various business ventures, including a record label and a beverage company. People have to admit, 50 Cent is one of the best rappers they've ever heard. His first album was unbelievably good, so much so that famous rappers like Eminem and Dr. Dre were impressed with his work.
Get Rich or Die Tryin' is his best album, which sold 15 million copies. He should be in everyone's top 10 rapper list.
Best of all time! Great lyrics, done so much for the industry, can freestyle unlike Lil Wayne, doesn't do depressing songs like Eminem all the time. G-Unit!
Andre 3000, also known as Andre Benjamin, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. He is best known as one half of the hip-hop duo Outkast, which has sold over 25 million records worldwide. Andre 3000 is known for his distinctive style and inventive wordplay, and has been recognized as one of the greatest rappers of all time. He has also appeared in several films, including "Four Brothers" and "Semi-Pro." He should be top 10, minimum, probably top 5. Definitely, he should be above #30. His flow, lyrics, and creativity with production are all top-notch. If he had ever released a solo album (The Love Below doesn't really count), he would be near the top of this list.
He dominates every song he is on, so you listen to it just for his part. I can understand him being ranked below people like Wiz, as they just get joke votes. However, it's a disgrace that Kendrick is ranked above him.
Big Boi should be in the top 20. He outshines Andre on some of their songs and kills his verse on Roses (songs can be commercial and good). He deserves better than #298, but he doesn't get any votes because nearly everyone who listens to Outkast prefers Dre.
Eazy-E, also known as Eric Lynn Wright, was an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. He was a founding member of the influential rap group N.W.A., and is considered one of the pioneers of gangsta rap. Eazy-E's music often addressed issues such as police brutality, racism, and gang violence. He released several successful albums during his career, including "Eazy-Duz-It" and "It's On (Dr. Dre) 187um Killa." Eazy-E died in 1995 at the age of 31 due to complications from AIDS. Eazy's voice distinguishes him from everybody else in NWA, which is definitely an advantage. He has also been a symbol of the group for ages. It should also be noted that when it comes down to it, NWA is basically the reason a lot of other rappers made it.
Snoop Dogg and Eminem both signed with Dre, and Eminem later made 50 Cent famous. Just the fact that Eazy is a part of NWA means he could destroy anybody recording today.
Eazy puts the G in OG if you ask me. No MC has ever done hardcore crime rap with as much menace and brutal honesty as E. He set the standard for rhyming detailed lyrics about committing felonies. They're scarier when they come from a high voice that sounds mad, mean, serious, anxious, excited, devious, and mechanical all at the same time, rather than a slow, mellow voice that sounds like it's exhaling blunt smoke. I'm a peaceful hippie, but E makes me feel like breaking laws.
Big L, born Lamont Coleman, was an American rapper and songwriter. He first gained popularity in the early 1990s with his underground mixtapes and collaborations with other New York City rappers. Big L is known for his aggressive and often violent lyrics, which showcase his battle rap skills. He released his debut album "Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous" in 1995, which was critically acclaimed but did not achieve commercial success. Big L was tragically shot and killed in 1999 at the age of 24. Big L, I would say, was and is still the king of Harlem. He had punchlines so fierce and amazing that nobody ever wanted to beef with him, which was a smart idea. Even Nas didn't want to beef with him.
Big L, I would say, is the most underrated rapper ever, or maybe AZ. Sadly, Big L only had one solo album released when he was alive: "Lifestylez ov the Poor & Dangerous". If Big L was still alive, he would probably be number one on my list. But with his short discography, he still has the skills to make it to my top 10.
Best album: "The Big Picture"
Best posthumous album: "The Big Picture"
Best song: "Ebonics"
Best verse: "98' Freestyle"
Best collaboration: "Deadly Combination" ft. 2Pac
Drake, also known as Aubrey Drake Graham, is a Canadian rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. He first gained recognition with his debut album "Thank Me Later" in 2010, and has since become one of the most successful and influential artists in hip-hop. Drake's music often combines rap and R&B, and he is known for his introspective lyrics and melodic hooks. He has won four Grammy Awards and sold over 150 million records worldwide. I have been following Drake's music before he got signed and just released the mixtape Comeback Season. He is my favorite rapper right now. No other singer or rapper has lyrics like Drizzy right here! His emotion and lyrics that he gives and shows us are incredible! He talks personally and is relatable to nearly everyone. He has a song for every person, for every mood! A fantastic genius!
He can also sing as well as rap. His new album, Take Care, is the most phenomenal thing I've heard in a long time. Every single song I can listen to without skipping. This shows he's wicked! His flows are also unique! Haven't heard Drake? Man, listen and vote for him. He needs to be in the top ten of this list!
Lil Wayne, born Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He first gained popularity in the mid-2000s with his mixtapes and his album "Tha Carter III," which won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album in 2009. Lil Wayne is known for his unique flow and clever wordplay, and has collaborated with many other artists throughout his career. He has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. It's funny how people hate on Wayne for doing things differently on his albums. He's been in the rap game more than he's been out of it. He's won every possible award there is to win for rap. He took a local recording group and made them into a worldwide phenomenon.
Lil Wayne never lost skill. He lost hunger. He's won everything there is to win. What more does he have to prove? To the idiot who said he took on "Lil" like every other rapper, I have two things to say to you: 1. You obviously know nothing about Southern music. 2. He was nine when he came up with the name.
Wayne has impacted the rap game, whether you take it in a positive or negative way. It's up to you. He is great and will go down as a great regardless of what anybody says about it.
Immortal Technique, also known as Felipe Coronel, is an American rapper and activist. He is known for his politically charged lyrics, which address issues such as poverty, social inequality, and government corruption. Immortal Technique has released several albums throughout his career, including "Revolutionary Vol. 1" and "The Martyr." He is also involved in various social and political causes, such as immigrant rights and prison reform. Immortal Technique has a lot of diversity in his lyrics, unlike the mainstream. He talks about politics, wars, philosophy, religion, and so on. He is highly educated and dedicated to the community. He possesses the ability to freestyle and engage in battle rap, unlike all the commercial rappers. He speaks the truth.
I'm certain that most mainstream rappers are too unintelligent to comprehend the topics of his lyrics or even his vocabulary. He is the most underrated rapper of all time. However, as he himself stated regarding industry rappers: "If you go platinum, it has nothing to do with luck. It simply means that a million people are stupid!"
Big Pun, also known as Christopher Rios, was an American rapper and songwriter. He first gained popularity in the late 1990s with his debut album "Capital Punishment," which was a commercial and critical success. Big Pun's music often addressed his struggles with obesity and his experiences growing up in the Bronx. He was known for his intricate rhyming and wordplay, and was considered one of the best technical rappers of his time. Big Pun passed away in 2000 at the age of 28. Sick flow and rhymes! Dead in the middle of Little Italy, little did we know that we riddled two middlemen who didn't do diddly! Who else do you know that can rap like that? He's no Eminem, he's no Tupac, but he's definitely something special and deserves at least top 20.
I don't know what's wrong with you people. Big Pun, #35? You guys need to reevaluate what you think is real hip-hop. It's 2013, listen to any of those guys in the top 10. Go back and put on a Big Pun album, any album (from 13 years ago), and tell me that he is not the nicest... I dare you all!
MF Doom, also known as Daniel Dumile, was a British-born American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. He first gained popularity in the late 1990s with his group KMD, and later as a solo artist under the name MF Doom. MF Doom's music often featured intricate wordplay and off-kilter beats, and he was known for wearing a metal mask during his performances. He released several critically acclaimed albums, including "Operation: Doomsday" and "Mm.. Food." MF Doom passed away in 2020 at the age of 49. I want to cry when I see this legend placed under so many mediocre rappers (like Nicki Minaj). This guy literally possesses an unbelievable amount of talent. I guarantee you will never find a better lyricist. I still remember the first time I listened to "Hoe Cakes," and I've loved him ever since.
DOOM comes up with such innovative raps and never disappoints. His unique style, voice, and lyrics are near impossible to replicate. He influenced artists like Earl Sweatshirt and Joey Badass. MF DOOM considers himself to be a villain, but to the rap game, he's a hero.
Tech N9ne, also known as Aaron Dontez Yates, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He is known for his intricate and rapid-fire style of rapping, which has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Tech N9ne has released numerous albums throughout his career, including "Anghellic," "Absolute Power," and "All 6's and 7's." He is also the co-founder of the independent record label Strange Music. No one strings rhymes and flows together like Tech does. The way his tracks and rhymes blend is exquisite, forming beautiful music. He's the fastest out of this list, and he's independent. If he had all the media attention that Em and Wayne have, he would probably be different.
When Em was underground, he was awesome. But when he went mainstream, it all went to his head, just like the self-proclaimed king, Lil Wayne. I'm glad Tech didn't go mainstream early in his career. If he did, he probably wouldn't be as good. Mainstream ruins people. It makes them overconfident. Moreover, people nowadays listen to bad music with no lyricism whatsoever. Just look at Wayne's lyrics... All I can say is, what?! He brings the delivery, but not the lyrics. As for Em, I think he's number two, but Tech is the king all the way. I'll solidify my point: mainstream ruins talent. Tech is the king, no doubt.
KRS-One, whose real name is Lawrence Krisna Parker, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. He first gained popularity as a member of the hip-hop group Boogie Down Productions in the 1980s. KRS-One is known for his socially conscious and politically charged lyrics, which often address issues such as police brutality, poverty, and racism. He has released numerous solo albums and is considered one of the most influential figures in hip-hop history. KRS-One has the quantity (unlike Biggie or L), the beats (sorry, Em), the voice (sorry, Em), and, most importantly, his lyrical content keeps it real (unlike Jay and Wayne). His lyrics are for the PEOPLE in the STREETS, not Hollywood or upscale boutiques. Other rappers try to be "conscious" but also worry about having mass appeal (Kanye, Common). KRS doesn't pull any punches and doesn't worship money. I like the other rappers I mentioned here, but KRS-One is #1!
KRS-One may be the most popular golden-age MC, deserving of the title. Boogie Down Productions was about one spot away from being in the top 5 rap duos of all time due to KRS-One's exquisite rhymes. He has one solo classic album: Return of the Boom Bap, and his BDP classics are Criminally Minded, by far considered one of the 500 best albums of all time, and By All Means Necessary.
KRS-One can transition from a serious protesting rapper to a fun rapper to a lyrical genius. During his prime (BDP and Return of the Boom Bap era), KRS-One was close to being as skilled as Rakim, maybe even as skilled.
The best album with Boogie Down Productions is Criminally Minded. The best solo album is Return of the Boom Bap. The best song is South Bronx. The best collaboration is The Anthem - Sway & Tech featuring RZA, Tech N9ne, Eminem, Xzibit, Pharoahe Monch, Kool G Rap, Jayo Felony, Chino XL, and KRS-One. The best verse is verse 1 of South Bronx.
T.I., also known as Clifford Joseph Harris Jr., is an American rapper, songwriter, and actor. He first gained mainstream success with his second album, "Trap Muzik," which earned him a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rap Solo Performance. T.I. has released several successful albums throughout his career, including "King" and "Paper Trail." He is also known for his acting roles in films such as "ATL" and "Ant-Man." T.I. is considered one of the pioneers of the trap music genre. T.I. is too underrated! He deserves to be in the top 5. He is one of the reasons that Hip Hop, Rap, and southern music are still alive. What T.I. has that most rappers don't have is intellect. Have you ever heard anyone who is this smart and from a hood, let alone Bankhead, Atlanta?
T.I. has proven again and again that nothing can stop his hustle. He has been dropped from labels, gone to jail many times, had life threats, but he still hustles like THE KING. Say no more. Just listen, admire, and witness greatness.
He is one of the best because of his storytelling, smooth voice, rap style, and ability to change up his style while still creating great music, as he did on "No Mercy." Additionally, instead of making you wait for new music while he is in jail, he simply releases albums that you can keep in your car for a year and still enjoy until he gets out, due to the high quality of his music. He should be ranked in the top 5, even above Lil Wayne. I really mean it. The King.
DMX, also known as Earl Simmons, was an American rapper and actor. He first gained popularity in the late 1990s with his debut album "It's Dark and Hell Is Hot," which was a commercial and critical success. DMX's music often addressed his struggles with drug addiction, poverty, and violence. He released several hit albums throughout his career, including "Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood" and "...And Then There Was X." DMX was also known for his acting roles in films such as "Belly" and "Romeo Must Die." He passed away in 2021 at the age of 50. DMX brought his deepest emotions into rap when he decided to rap to sustain his family. He wanted to be good for others and expressed this passion with lyrics deeper than most rappers in the game. His emotions and determination are moving, and his story is sure to bring a tear to your eye. He poured all of his emotions into his songs and made music that was remarkable, launching him into fame.
When he went to meet the president, he was recovering from an accident and had wires in his mouth. People were amazed when Kanye "spoke through the wire," but DMX spat so hard that wires could be heard popping out of his mouth. His downfall was brought on by his cocaine addiction, but if the seemingly harmless blunt he smoked wasn't laced with cocaine, he could have torn down all the rappers of our time. His lyrics are profound, his voice gets an old hag hyped, and his passion is immense. DMX will always be the greatest rapper and man alive.
Busta Rhymes, born Trevor George Smith Jr., is an American rapper, singer, and actor. He first gained popularity in the 1990s as a member of the hip-hop group Leaders of the New School, before embarking on a successful solo career. Busta Rhymes is known for his fast-paced rapping style and dynamic stage presence, and has released several critically acclaimed albums throughout his career. He has won multiple Grammy Awards and has collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Janet Jackson to Eminem. Being fast isn't necessarily what makes Busta so good. It's the way he delivers - with some of the most uplifting, funny, and by far, some of the most unique verses in rap right now. When he strayed from his old style, a lot of people discredited him for it. But right now, he's getting better and better - he doesn't need to stay the same.
"Look at Me Now" wasn't a hit because of Lil Wayne's verse or because of Chris Brown's - even though both have a colossal fanbase. It was a hit because of Busta Rhymes. A lot of people just hadn't gotten that kind of style before, with good reason. No one else has it - Busta taught himself how to rap like that. Hell, he only ever did a one-minute feature, and he managed to own the song with it. That was 2011. It's 2012 now, "Extinction Level Event 2" is coming, and frankly, with some of the stuff he's been dropping really recently, my faith in his new album is through the roof. Old fans are dead right, Busta isn't as good as he used to be. He's better.