Rap music has been a staple of the music industry for decades and has produced some of the most talented and innovative artists of all time. While there are countless talented rappers in the world, the following is a list of the top 10 best rappers of all time, based on their skills, creativity, and impact on the industry.
Here list of Top 10 Best Rappers of All Time
- Tupac Shakur (1971-1996) Category: Gangsta Rap Famous Songs: “California Love“, “Dear Mama”, “Changes”
- The Notorious B.I.G. (1972-1997) Category: East Coast Hip Hop Famous Songs: “Juicy”, “Hypnotize”, “Big Poppa”
- Eminem (born 1972) Category: Hardcore Rap Famous Songs: “Lose Yourself”, “Not Afraid”, “The Real Slim Shady”
- Jay-Z (born 1969) Category: East Coast Hip Hop Famous Songs: “99 Problems”, “Empire State of Mind”, “Hard Knock Life”
- Nas (born 1973) Category: East Coast Hip Hop Famous Songs: “One Mic”, “Hate Me Now”, “Illmatic”
- Kendrick Lamar (born 1987) Category: Conscious Rap Famous Songs: “Alright”, “King Kunta”, “DNA”
- Snoop Dogg (born 1971) Category: West Coast Hip Hop Famous Songs: “Drop It Like It’s Hot”, “Gin and Juice”, “Sensual Seduction”
- Dr. Dre (born 1965) Category: West Coast Hip Hop Famous Songs: “Nuthin’ But a G Thang”, “The Next Episode”, “Still D.R.E.”
- Ice Cube (born 1969) Category: Gangsta Rap Famous Songs: “It Was a Good Day”, “Check Yo Self”, “Today Was a Good Day”
- LL Cool J (born 1968) Category: East Coast Hip Hop Famous Songs: “Mama Said Knock You Out”, “I Need Love”, “Going Back to Cali”
1. Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur, also known as 2Pac, was a rapper, actor, and cultural icon who rose to fame in the 1990s. He was born in East Harlem, New York, in 1971 and was raised in the Bay Area of California. Tupac is widely considered one of the greatest rappers of all time, and his influence on the hip hop genre and popular culture continues to this day.
Tupac’s music often dealt with themes of poverty, violence, and the African American experience. He was known for his charismatic and confrontational style, and his powerful lyrics struck a chord with many listeners. Tupac was also a pioneer in the world of gangsta rap, and his music was both celebrated and criticized for its violent and controversial content.
Tupac released his first album, “2Pacalypse Now,” in 1991, and he quickly became one of the most popular rappers in the world. Over the next few years, he continued to release successful albums and gain a massive following. However, Tupac was also involved in several legal battles and public controversies, and his life was marred by violence and conflict.
Tragically, Tupac was murdered in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas in 1996, at the age of 25. Despite his death, Tupac’s music and legacy have lived on, and he continues to be one of the most influential rappers of all time.
Some of Tupac’s most famous songs include “California Love,” “I Ain’t Mad Atcha,” and “Dear Mama.” These songs showcase Tupac’s powerful lyrics and charismatic style, and they continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.
In addition to his music career, Tupac was also involved in acting and activism. He appeared in several films, including “Poetic Justice” and “Above the Rim,” and he was known for his outspoken views on political and social issues. Tupac’s influence on popular culture and the entertainment world has been immense, and he remains an important figure to this day.
Tupac’s legacy is further solidified by the numerous honors and awards he has received over the years. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and he has been named to numerous lists of the greatest rappers of all time.
In conclusion, Tupac Shakur was a true icon of hip hop, and his influence on the genre and popular culture will continue to be felt for generations to come. Whether you’re a fan of his music or simply admire his activism and charismatic style, Tupac is sure to leave a lasting impact on the world.
2. The Notorious B.I.G.
The Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls, was a rapper from Brooklyn, New York. He is widely considered one of the greatest rappers of all time and is often ranked alongside Tupac Shakur as one of the defining voices of East Coast hip-hop in the 1990s.
Biggie Smalls was born Christopher Wallace in May of 1972 and grew up in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bedford-Stuyvesant. He began rapping as a teenager and caught the attention of Sean “Puffy” Combs, who signed him to his record label, Bad Boy Records.
Biggie’s debut album, “Ready to Die,” was released in 1994 and was met with critical and commercial success. The album’s dark and introspective lyrics, combined with Biggie’s distinctive storytelling style, earned him comparisons to literary greats like Edgar Allan Poe. The album spawned several hit singles, including “Juicy” and “Big Poppa.”
Biggie’s follow-up album, “Life After Death,” was released just weeks after his untimely death in March of 1997. The album was another critical and commercial success and cemented Biggie’s legacy as one of the greatest rappers of all time. The album featured several classic tracks, including “Hypnotize” and “Mo Money Mo Problems.”
Biggie’s impact on the world of hip-hop cannot be overstated. He was a pioneer of East Coast gangsta rap and helped to establish New York City as a hub for the genre. His smooth flow and intricate wordplay have influenced countless rappers and have made him a cultural icon.
In addition to his musical contributions, Biggie was known for his larger-than-life personality and charismatic stage presence. He had a magnetic energy that drew people to him, and his death at just 24 years old was a devastating loss for hip-hop fans around the world.
Despite his short career, Biggie’s impact on the world of hip-hop is still felt today. His music continues to be celebrated and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary rappers. He remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in hip-hop and will forever be remembered as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
3. Eminem
Eminem, also known as Slim Shady, is one of the most successful and acclaimed rappers of all time. He was born Marshall Bruce Mathers III in St. Joseph, Missouri, in 1972, and he rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Eminem is widely considered one of the greatest rappers of all time, and his impact on the hip hop genre and popular culture is undeniable.
Eminem’s music is characterized by its dark, confrontational style and explicit lyrics. He is known for his quick-witted, highly skilled rapping, and his music often deals with themes of poverty, drug use, and personal struggles. Despite the controversial nature of his music, Eminem has gained a massive following, and his music has been celebrated for its honesty and raw emotional power.
Eminem released his first album, “The Slim Shady LP,” in 1999, and it quickly became one of the best-selling hip hop albums of all time. Over the next several years, he continued to release successful albums and win critical acclaim. In addition to his music career, Eminem has also been involved in acting and has appeared in several films, including “8 Mile” and “The Interview.”
Eminem’s music has won numerous awards and honors, and he has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He has sold over 150 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Some of Eminem’s most famous songs include “Lose Yourself,” “The Real Slim Shady,” and “Not Afraid.” These songs showcase Eminem’s incredible rapping skills and his confrontational style, and they continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.
In addition to his musical accomplishments, Eminem is also known for his activism and support of various causes. He has been involved in numerous charities and has used his platform to raise awareness about issues such as drug addiction and poverty.
Despite his success and popularity, Eminem has faced numerous controversies and legal battles throughout his career. He has been criticized for the explicit nature of his lyrics, and he has been sued for his depictions of violence and sexual content. Despite these controversies, Eminem remains one of the most popular and influential rappers of all time.
In conclusion, Eminem is a true icon of hip hop, and his impact on the genre and popular culture will continue to be felt for generations to come. Whether you’re a fan of his music or simply admire his skills as a rapper, Eminem is sure to leave a lasting impact on the world.
4. Jay-Z
Jay-Z, born Shawn Corey Carter, is a rapper, record producer, and entrepreneur from Brooklyn, New York. He is widely considered one of the greatest rappers of all time and is known for his innovative style, introspective lyrics, and entrepreneurial spirit. Jay-Z’s music often tackles themes of poverty, success, and the African American experience, and his smooth delivery and powerful rhymes have earned him a massive following.
Jay-Z began his music career in the late 1980s, releasing his first album, “Reasonable Doubt,” in 1996. The album was a critical and commercial success, and it established Jay-Z as one of the most talented and influential rappers of his generation. Over the next two decades, Jay-Z continued to release successful albums and grow his reputation as a rapper and businessman. He has since released more than a dozen albums and has won numerous awards, including 21 Grammy Awards.
In addition to his music career, Jay-Z is also known for his business ventures. He has been involved in numerous startups and investments over the years, and he is widely regarded as one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the entertainment industry. He has also been a strong advocate for social and political causes, using his platform and influence to raise awareness about important issues and to inspire change.
Some of Jay-Z’s most famous songs include “99 Problems,” “Empire State of Mind,” and “Izzo (H.O.V.A.).” These songs showcase Jay-Z’s unique style and powerful lyrical skills, and they are testament to his place as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Jay-Z has also been recognized for his contributions to the world of hip hop, receiving numerous honors and awards over the years. In 2019, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, becoming the first rapper ever to receive the honor. He has also been named to Forbes’ list of the richest people in entertainment multiple times, and he has been recognized as one of the most influential people in the world by Time magazine.
In conclusion, Jay-Z is a true icon of hip hop, and his contributions to the world of music and entertainment will continue to inspire and influence future generations. Whether you’re a fan of his music or simply admire his entrepreneurial spirit and social activism, Jay-Z is sure to leave a lasting impact on the world.
5. Nas
Nas, born Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones, is a rapper and songwriter from Queens, New York. He is widely considered one of the greatest rappers of all time and has been influential in shaping the sound and style of East Coast hip-hop.
Nas first gained attention with his 1994 debut album, “Illmatic.” The album was a critical and commercial success and is widely regarded as a classic of the genre. It showcased Nas’s exceptional lyrical abilities, intricate wordplay, and storytelling skills, and established him as a dominant voice in hip-hop.
Over the course of his career, Nas has released several critically acclaimed albums and has continued to evolve and grow as an artist. He has tackled a wide range of subjects in his lyrics, from personal struggles and relationships to political and social issues. His music is often introspective and thought-provoking, and he is known for his insightful and insightful commentary on the world around him.
In addition to his musical contributions, Nas is also known for his activism and philanthropy. He has used his platform to raise awareness about important social and political issues, and has been a vocal advocate for education, equality, and justice.
Nas’s impact on the world of hip-hop cannot be overstated. He is a visionary artist who has pushed the boundaries of the genre and has inspired countless other musicians and fans. He remains one of the most respected and beloved figures in hip-hop and will forever be remembered as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
6. Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar, born Kendrick Lamar Duckworth, is a rapper, singer, and songwriter from Compton, California. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time and has won numerous awards and accolades for his music.
Lamar first gained attention with his 2011 album “Section.80,” which was met with critical acclaim and established him as a rising star in the rap world. He continued to gain popularity and recognition with the release of his subsequent albums, including “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” (2012), “To Pimp a Butterfly” (2015), and “DAMN.” (2017), which solidified his place as one of the most important voices in contemporary hip-hop.
Lamar’s music is known for its intricate wordplay, thought-provoking lyrics, and innovative production. He tackles a wide range of subjects in his music, from personal struggles and relationships to social and political issues. His music often serves as a commentary on the world around him and is both introspective and thought-provoking.
In addition to his musical contributions, Lamar is also known for his activism and philanthropy. He has used his platform to raise awareness about important social and political issues and has been a vocal advocate for equality and justice.
Lamar’s impact on the world of hip-hop cannot be overstated. He is a visionary artist who has pushed the boundaries of the genre and has inspired countless other musicians and fans. He remains one of the most respected and beloved figures in hip-hop and will forever be remembered as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
7. Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., is a rapper, singer, and actor from Long Beach, California. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of hip-hop and has been a major force in the music industry for over 25 years.
Snoop Dogg first gained recognition as a member of Dr. Dre’s Death Row Records in the early 1990s. He rose to prominence with the release of his debut album “Doggystyle” in 1993, which was met with critical acclaim and established him as one of the biggest stars in hip-hop. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and has since been certified multi-platinum.
Snoop Dogg’s unique style and laid-back delivery have made him one of the most recognizable voices in hip-hop. He has released a total of 19 studio albums and has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Dr. Dre, Pharrell, and Wiz Khalifa, among others. In addition to his musical contributions, Snoop Dogg is also known for his acting, having appeared in numerous films and television shows over the years.
Snoop Dogg has also been a vocal advocate for marijuana legalization and is widely regarded as one of the biggest supporters of the movement. He has used his platform to raise awareness about the issue and has been a vocal advocate for the legalization of marijuana in the United States.
In addition to his musical and acting contributions, Snoop Dogg is also known for his philanthropy. He has been a vocal advocate for various charitable causes, including education and poverty reduction. He has used his platform to raise awareness about these issues and has made significant contributions to organizations working to make a positive impact in communities around the world.
Snoop Dogg’s impact on the world of hip-hop cannot be overstated. He is a true icon of the genre and has inspired countless other musicians and fans. He remains one of the most respected and beloved figures in hip-hop and will forever be remembered as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
ALSO READ – TOP 10 RICHEST ACTORS IN THE WORLD
8. Dr. Dre
Dr. Dre, born Andre Romelle Young, is a rapper, producer, and entrepreneur from Compton, California. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of hip-hop, having helped shape the sound of West Coast rap and revolutionized the music industry with his innovative production techniques.
Dre first gained recognition as a member of the influential rap group N.W.A in the late 1980s. He went on to launch a successful solo career, releasing his seminal album “The Chronic” in 1992, which has been credited with popularizing the “G-Funk” sound and introducing a new generation to West Coast rap.
Dre’s production skills have been highly sought after by other artists in the music industry, and he has worked with a wide range of artists, including Snoop Dogg, Eminem, 50 Cent, and Kendrick Lamar, to name a few. He has also been a successful entrepreneur, co-founding the popular headphone brand Beats by Dr. Dre, which was later sold to Apple for billions of dollars.
In addition to his musical contributions, Dre is also known for his activism and philanthropy. He has used his platform to raise awareness about important social and political issues and has been a vocal advocate for equality and justice.
Dre’s impact on the world of hip-hop cannot be overstated. He is a visionary artist who has pushed the boundaries of the genre and has inspired countless other musicians and fans. He remains one of the most respected and beloved figures in hip-hop and will forever be remembered as one of the greatest producers of all time.
9. Ice Cube
Ice Cube is a rapper, actor, and film director who has had a major impact on hip-hop music and culture. He was born in South Central Los Angeles in 1969, and began his music career as a member of the influential gangsta rap group N.W.A. in the late 1980s.
Ice Cube is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of gangsta rap, a subgenre of hip-hop that emerged in the mid-1980s and was characterized by its aggressive, often violent, and socially conscious lyrics. Ice Cube was a key member of N.W.A. and was responsible for writing many of the group’s most famous songs, including “Straight Outta Compton,” “F— Tha Police,” and “Gangsta’s Paradise.”
After leaving N.W.A. in 1989, Ice Cube embarked on a successful solo career. He released his debut solo album, “AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted,” in 1990, which was met with critical and commercial success. The album was known for its politically charged and socially conscious lyrics, which tackled issues such as racism, police brutality, and poverty.
Ice Cube has since released several other critically acclaimed solo albums, including “Death Certificate” (1991), “The Predator” (1992), and “Laugh Now, Cry Later” (2006). He has also had a successful career as an actor, appearing in films such as “Boyz n the Hood” (1991), “Barbershop” (2002), and “Ride Along” (2014). He has also been involved in several film projects as a writer, producer, and director.
Throughout his career, Ice Cube has been known for his innovative and genre-defying approach to hip-hop music and his commitment to socially conscious and politically charged lyrics. He has had a major impact on the genre as a whole, and is widely regarded as one of the best and most influential rappers of all time.
In addition to his musical and acting careers, Ice Cube is also known for his activism and political views. He has been an outspoken critic of the U.S. government and has used his platform to raise awareness about issues such as police brutality, racism, and poverty. He has also been involved in several philanthropic and community projects, including the Big3 basketball league, which he co-founded in 2017.
Ice Cube’s impact on hip-hop music and culture cannot be overstated. He has been a major influence on several generations of rappers and musicians, and his innovative and genre-defying approach to hip-hop production has had a lasting impact on the genre as a whole. He remains a relevant and influential figure in hip-hop today, and his contributions to the genre will not soon be forgotten.
10. LL Cool J
LL Cool J (James Todd Smith) is an American rapper, actor, and author who is widely considered one of the founding fathers of hip-hop music. He was born in Bay Shore, New York, in 1968, and first rose to prominence in the mid-1980s with his debut album, “Radio.”
LL Cool J is known for his smooth and charismatic delivery, which quickly made him one of the most popular rappers of his time. His early work was characterized by his energetic and confident delivery, as well as his innovative and genre-defying production. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of hip-hop, and his impact on the genre has been significant.
Throughout his career, LL Cool J has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Bigger and Deffer” (1987), “Walking with a Panther” (1989), and “Mr. Smith” (1995). He is best known for his hit songs, including “I Can’t Live Without My Radio,” “I Need Love,” and “Mama Said Knock You Out.” He is also known for his contributions to the hip-hop genre, as well as his impact on popular culture more broadly.
In addition to his musical career, LL Cool J has also had a successful career as an actor. He has appeared in several films and television shows, including the hit TV series “NCIS: Los Angeles,” in which he has played the lead role of Special Agent Sam Hanna since 2009. He has also been involved in several other film projects, including “Any Given Sunday” (1999) and “S.W.A.T.” (2003).
LL Cool J’s contributions to hip-hop music and culture cannot be overstated. He is widely regarded as one of the best and most influential rappers of all time, and his impact on the genre has been significant. He remains a relevant and influential figure in hip-hop today, and his contributions to the genre will not soon be forgotten.
Throughout his career, LL Cool J has also been known for his philanthropic work. He has been involved in several charitable organizations and causes, including the LL Cool J’s NCIS: Los Angeles Charity Golf Classic, which raises money for a variety of charitable causes. He is also a passionate advocate for health and fitness, and has released several books and videos on the subject.
LL Cool J’s impact on hip-hop music and culture has been profound. He has been a major influence on several generations of rappers and musicians, and his innovative and genre-defying approach to hip-hop production has had a lasting impact on the genre as a whole. He remains a relevant and influential figure in hip-hop today, and his contributions to the genre will not soon be forgotten.
Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of their works and only includes a few of their most famous songs. Additionally, this list is subjective and can vary greatly depending on personal taste and interpretation.