15 Best Rappers of All Time

Rappers are artists who use spoken word, rhyme, and rhythm to deliver their lyrics over musical beats. They are a vital part of the hip-hop genre and have become prominent figures in the music industry. Rapping involves skilled wordplay, storytelling, and often addresses a wide range of topics, including social issues, personal experiences, and cultural commentary.

Rap music emerged in the 1970s in the Bronx, New York City, as a form of expression for African American and Latino communities. Over the years, it has evolved into a global phenomenon, influencing music, fashion, and culture.

Talented rappers possess a natural flow, delivery, and creativity, allowing them to craft captivating verses that resonate with listeners. They may write their own lyrics or collaborate with other songwriters, but their ability to communicate powerful messages through their words is what defines their artistry.

Rap battles, freestyling, and cyphers are common aspects of hip-hop culture, showcasing rappers’ improvisational skills and their ability to think on their feet.

Many successful rappers release albums, mixtapes, and singles, collaborating with producers and fellow artists to create diverse and groundbreaking music. Some rappers use their platform to address social issues, advocate for change, and inspire their audience.

Iconic rappers like Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, Eminem, Nas, and Kendrick Lamar have achieved legendary status, leaving an enduring impact on hip-hop and the music industry as a whole. Their influence continues to shape the trajectory of rap music and inspire aspiring rappers worldwide.

Rappers often represent their backgrounds, experiences, and communities, making hip-hop a powerful tool for self-expression and storytelling. With its global reach and cultural significance, rap remains a dynamic and influential genre, giving voice to a diverse array of perspectives and emotions.

1. Tupac Shakur

Tupac Shakur was a legendary rapper, renowned for his artistic talent and profound lyrics. He is unmatched in terms of his contribution to the hip-hop industry, making him one of the most influential figures in music history.

With his compelling story-telling and poetic verses, Tupac enthralled audiences with his intense emotions and thought-provoking messages. He also used his platform to draw attention to social issues such as racism, poverty, and police brutality.

Tupac had the ability to merge many musical styles, from gangsta rap to conscious hip-hop, which demonstrated his prowess as an artist. He boldly pushed the boundaries of societal norms through his music.

Not only was Tupac known for his musical aptitude, but he also had a successful acting career. He featured in films like "Juice" and "Poetic Justice", which greatly magnified his presence in popular culture.

A fun fact: Tupac's album "All Eyez on Me" is one of the best-selling hip-hop albums of all time, with 10 million copies sold worldwide! (Source: RIAA).

Tupac Shakur will forever be remembered as a legendary figure in the rap industry. His legacy continues to motivate future generations of musicians who use their voices to bring about change. His rhymes were so big, they needed their own zip code!

2. The Notorious B.I.G.

The Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls, is renowned as one of the greatest rappers ever. His mark on the rap industry and his talent for lyrics made him a top pick.

• B.I.G. had an amazing ability to tell stories that entranced people around the world. Through his relatable words, he painted a picture of life in the streets and the challenges they faced.
• His unique flow and delivery set him apart. His smooth rhymes showcased his skill and made him easily recognizable.
• Biggie's first album, "Ready to Die," was a hit. It was successful and acclaimed for its introspection and captivating stories.

B.I.G. could collaborate with other great artists without giving up his individuality. He blended different styles and sounds without affecting his signature sound.

Pro Tip: To understand B.I.G.'s talent, listen to his discography in order. You'll be able to witness his development as an artist.

Enjoy the masterful lyrics of Eminem – the rap god!

3. Eminem

Eminem stands out from his peers. His talent for rap and wordplay astonishes listeners. Not just that, he's great at conveying stories with his lyrics.

On top of his musical feats, Eminem has had to face a lot of hardship. He's opened up about addiction, mental health issues, and social injustice. This has made him an advocate for those who feel unheard.

One example of Eminem's impact is Stan, a fictional character who's obsessed with him. It shows Eminem's storytelling prowess, as well as the risks of unhealthy fandom and not addressing mental health.

Jay-Z may have 99 problems, but not being one of the greatest rappers of all time isn't one of them.

4. Jay-Z

Jay-Z is an iconic figure in the rap industry. Known for his captivating lyrics and flow, he pushes boundaries and redefines the genre. With a career spanning decades, he has achieved success as a rapper, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. He is unique for his storytelling ability, weaving narratives that paint pictures in listeners' minds. Whether discussing personal struggles or social issues, he connects with audiences on a profound level.

Plus, he's a savvy business mogul, co-founding Roc-A-Fella Records and founding Roc Nation. This multidimensional approach to success has earned him critical acclaim and financial prosperity. To fully appreciate Jay-Z's artistry, take the time to explore the backstory of his albums. Understanding the themes and inspirations behind his music will deepen your appreciation for this legendary rapper.

5. Nas

Nas: hailed as the fifth best rapper of all time. His unique style and thought-provoking lyrics have earned him his place as a legendary figure in the hip hop world. Let's take a closer look at what makes Nas so great.

Stats:

• 13 albums.
• 1 Grammy win.
• Hit singles: "If I Ruled the World", "Hate Me Now", "One Mic".
• Collaborations with Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, Lauryn Hill.

Nas has an impressive discography, plus that Grammy win. His most memorable hits include "If I Ruled the World," "Hate Me Now," and "One Mic". He has collaborated with many renowned artists, showing his ability to work with different styles and bring out the best in each track.

But what truly sets Nas apart is his courage to tackle social issues through his music. He speaks out about racial inequality, poverty, and inner-city struggles with grace and intelligence. His combination of storytelling and deep emotional resonance is a big hit with audiences worldwide.

Haven't experienced Nas yet? You're in for a treat. Dive into his albums and explore every lyric for a totally transformational hip hop experience. Find out why Nas is one of the greatest rappers to ever grace the mic – even more impressive than Kendrick Lamar, who could probably rap an IKEA instruction manual and still win a Grammy!

6. Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar, a prominent artist in the music industry, has made a huge impact with his original style and meaningful lyrics. Let's take a look at some cool facts about this talented musician.

• Real Name: Kendrick Lamar Duckworth
• Birth Date: June 17, 1987
• Hometown: Compton, California
• Main Genres: Hip hop, West Coast hip hop, conscious rap
• Awards and Accolades: Pulitzer Prize for Music, Grammy Awards (13 wins), BET Hip Hop Awards (6 wins), MTV Video Music Awards (5 wins)

His album "To Pimp a Butterfly" received high praise for its strong social messages. His ability to combine powerful storytelling with thoughtful lyrics has cemented him as one of the greatest rappers of all time.

Pro Tip: Get inspired by Kendrick Lamar's storytelling techniques to boost your songwriting skills and connect with your listeners on a deeper level. Rakim, the godfather of lyrical flow, spits rhymes so smooth they could make a baby quiet down and start rapping instead!

7. Rakim

Rakim, a legendary figure in hip-hop, is seventh on the best rappers of all time list. He is unique in style and lyrics. To highlight his achievements, here is a table:

Rakim's flow and words were special. He had intricate wordplay and philosophical meanings in his verses. This set him apart from other rappers.

Jay-Z shared an anecdote about Rakim's influence. He said hearing Rakim made him realize rap could be more than clever rhymes. It could be an art form capable of conveying emotions and storytelling.

André 3000 is highly praised as a musical genius. But he is also skilled at wearing a thousand different hats… literally!

8. André 3000

André 3000 is widely considered one of the greatest rappers ever. His unique style and poetic lyrics have left an indelible mark in the industry. He revolutionized hip-hop with his innovative sound and thought-provoking storytelling. Born on May 27, 1975 in Atlanta, Georgia, he has released albums such as Speakerboxxx/The Love Below (2003), ATLiens (1996), and Aquemini (1998). He has won six Grammy Awards and has transitioned between roles as both a rapper and actor, appearing in films like Four Brothers and Idlewild. André 3000 has collaborated with many renowned artists, including Beyoncé, Kanye West, and Frank Ocean. His philanthropic work, in addition to his musical contributions, has earned him a place on Rolling Stone magazine's "100 Greatest Artists of All Time" list in 2011. André 3000's impact on the music industry is undeniable.

9. Snoop Dogg

Snoop Dogg – a much-acclaimed rapper – secures the ninth spot on the list of all-time greats. Let's examine why he's regarded as one of the best in the business.

Birth Name: Cordozar Calvin Broadus Jr.

Stage Name: Snoop Dogg

Genre: Hip-hop, Gangsta rap, G-funk

Years Active: 1992-present

Awards and Achievements: Multiple Grammy nominations & wins; Hip Hop Hall of Fame inductee.

Snoop Dogg has a unique flow & laid-back delivery. He is talented in storytelling & collaborating with other artists from different genres. Despite being in the industry for almost three decades, he remains relevant & influential in hip-hop.

He is also a multi-dimensional talent. He has starred in films & TV shows, showcasing his versatility. On top of that, he has contributed to various causes close to his heart.

His career skyrocketed with the release of his debut album "Doggystyle" in 1993. It was a commercial success & cemented his iconic status. Since then, he has been consistently releasing chart-topping hits & collaborating with renowned artists.

10. Ice Cube

Ice Cube has made a mark in the rap industry with his distinctive style and thought-provoking messages. He has fans worldwide and is now a legendary figure in rap music. Let's take a look at some facts about this influential artist!

His albums have been smashing the charts, like his album "The Predator" which reached number one on the Billboard 200 chart. His political commentary is powerful and honest, empowering listeners with his unapologetic lyrics.

Pro Tip: To truly appreciate Ice Cube's artistry, listen to his albums in order. This lets you experience his musical and lyrical evolution over time. Move over Beethoven, Lil Wayne is spitting fire like Mozart on steroids!

11. Lil Wayne

Lil Wayne, a top-ranked artist in the rap world, is a highly influential figure. Five points to know about him:

• He raps with clever wordplay and metaphors.
• He rose to fame with "Tha Carter III" and hits like "Lollipop" and "A Milli".
• His voice and cadence make him stand out.
• He has collaborated with artists from multiple genres.
• He has ventured into fashion and sports marketing.

Plus, he has won several Grammy Awards. His impact is undeniable!

Kanye West? Crazy music and crazier fashion – always!

12. Kanye West

Kanye West is the twelfth rapper on our list. He's known for his one-of-a-kind style and controversial character. His music career has been active for more than two decades and he's left a huge mark in the music industry. Let's investigate Kanye West's voyage.

For instance, here's a quick summary of his album sales and Grammy Awards:

Moreover, Kanye West is a successful producer and fashion designer. He's collaborated with renowned artists and designers, pushing the limits of the music and fashion world.

Pro Tip: Dive into Kanye West's albums to understand his development as an artist. Whether you like him or not, he'll make you reconsider your playlists with his catchy hooks and meaningful lyrics.

13. Drake

The one and only Drake is known for his versatile style and chart-topping hits – making him one of the most successful and influential rappers in the biz! Let's get to know some facts about this talented artist.

• Stage Name: Drake
• Real Name: Aubrey Drake Graham
• Birth Date: October 24, 1986
• Nationality: Canadian
• Main Genres: Hip-hop, R&B, Pop

He's also an actor, known for his role on the TV series "Degrassi: The Next Generation". Drake's diversified talents have made him a household name!

Here's an interesting story: one time Drake surprised a fan by showing up at her high school prom after she asked him on social media. He really cares about his fans and goes out of his way to make them feel special.

Drake's amazing talent and ability to connect with fans have earned him the title of one of the greatest rappers of all time. His music continues to shape and redefine hip-hop today. J. Cole's flow is so smooth, it's like butter on a sick beat – or a great way to moisturize those dry rhymes.

14. J. Cole

J. Cole, listed as 14th among the greatest rappers ever, is famous for his rhyme-slinging and thought-provoking tales. His skills have earned him masses of faithful fans and numerous critical praises throughout his career.

Let’s take a closer look at J. Cole’s success and effect in rap via this table:

Aside from his chart-toppers and hit singles, J. Cole is also a socially conscious rapper. People recognize him for addressing racism, poverty, and addiction in his lyrics, which makes him a significant figure who uses his fame to speak up for social issues.

One heartwarming moment that shows J. Cole’s commitment to connecting with his supporters happened during a surprise visit to a college. He chose to join students playing hoops at their court after midnight. This spontaneous act not only showed his humble character but also portrayed the real connection he attempts to create with his audience.

J. Cole’s influence in rap has secured his spot among the best rappers ever. His gift to mesmerize listeners with his words and sincerity makes him an iconic figure whose legacy will stay alive for many years to come.

15. Lauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill has left an unforgettable mark on the music biz! Let's take a look at some cool facts about her journey.

Birth Name: Lauryn Noelle Hill

Birth Date: May 25, 1975

Nationality: American

Genre: Hip-hop, R&B, Neo soul

Albums Sold: Over 20 million copies!

Awards: Grammy Awards for Best New Artist and Best Rap Album

Influence: Lauryn's lyrics and vocal style have inspired many.

Lauryn's voice is amazing – combining passion and melody. Her solo album "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" was a big hit. She mixes hip-hop, R&B and neo soul into her music.

Her success has had its ups and downs. After winning awards and having huge commercial success, Lauryn Hill chose to take a break from the public life and focus on family. Despite not making new music, her influence has grown over time.

The impact of Lauryn Hill's artistry is more than records and awards. Fans relate to her powerful emotions and lyrics. She has been a source of inspiration for emerging artists to express themselves through music. Lauryn Hill is an icon in the rap industry!

Edward Tomlin

Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.