The best white rappers are celebrated for their lyrical talent, innovative styles, and significant contributions to hip-hop. Eminem, often regarded as the greatest, revolutionized the genre with his intricate wordplay, storytelling ability, and raw emotion in albums like “The Marshall Mathers LP” and “The Eminem Show.” Artists like Beastie Boys brought rap to a broader audience with their unique blend of punk and hip-hop. Mac Miller’s introspective lyrics and evolving sound gained widespread acclaim, while G-Eazy and Machine Gun Kelly have also made notable impacts. These artists have helped diversify hip-hop, breaking barriers and gaining respect within the genre.
1. Eminem
Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III on October 17, 1972, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time. Emerging in the late 1990s with his breakthrough album “The Slim Shady LP,” Eminem’s rapid-fire delivery, intricate rhyme schemes, and candid, often controversial lyrics quickly garnered attention. Albums like “The Marshall Mathers LP,” “The Eminem Show,” and “Recovery” solidified his status, with hits like “Lose Yourself,” “Stan,” and “Not Afraid.” Eminem’s impact on hip-hop is profound, breaking racial barriers and setting new standards for lyrical and technical excellence.
2. Beastie Boys
The Beastie Boys, formed in 1981, are an American rap-rock group known for their innovative blend of hip-hop, punk, and rock. The trio—Mike D (Michael Diamond), MCA (Adam Yauch), and Ad-Rock (Adam Horovitz)—first gained major success with their 1986 album “Licensed to Ill,” which featured the iconic hit “Fight For Your Right (To Party).” Their subsequent albums, such as “Paul’s Boutique,” “Check Your Head,” and “Ill Communication,” showcased their versatility and creativity, blending diverse genres and sampling techniques. Renowned for their energetic performances and playful, rebellious lyrics, the Beastie Boys left an indelible mark on music, influencing countless artists across multiple genres.
3. Macklemore
Macklemore, born Benjamin Hammond Haggerty on June 19, 1983, in Seattle, Washington, is an American rapper and songwriter known for his distinctive style and socially conscious lyrics. He gained widespread recognition and success as part of the duo Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, with producer Ryan Lewis.
Macklemore’s breakthrough came with the release of *The Heist* (2012), the debut studio album he released independently with Ryan Lewis. The album featured hit singles like “Thrift Shop” and “Can’t Hold Us,” both of which achieved significant commercial success and received critical acclaim. “Thrift Shop,” in particular, became a cultural phenomenon, known for its catchy hook and humorous exploration of second-hand fashion.
The duo’s follow-up album, *This Unruly Mess I’ve Made* (2016), continued their success with singles like “Downtown” and “White Privilege II,” the latter of which tackled issues of race and privilege.
In addition to his work with Ryan Lewis, Macklemore has released solo projects, including *Gemini* (2017), which features tracks like “Glorious” and “Good Old Days.” His music often addresses personal and social issues, including themes of self-reflection, social justice, and personal growth.
Macklemore is recognized for his independent approach to the music industry and his ability to blend introspective lyrics with mainstream appeal. His influence extends beyond his music, as he has been an advocate for various social causes and continues to impact contemporary hip-hop and pop culture.
4. Kid Rock
Kid Rock, born Robert James Ritchie on January 17, 1971, in Romeo, Michigan, is an American singer, songwriter, and rapper known for his genre-blending style that incorporates elements of rock, rap, country, and blues.
Kid Rock first gained attention in the late 1990s with his debut album *Grits Sandwiches for Breakfast* (1990) and the follow-up *The Polyfuze Method* (1993), which established his presence in the music scene with his unique fusion of rock and rap. His breakthrough came with the release of *Devil Without a Cause* (1998), which featured hits like “Bawitdaba” and “Cowboy,” and became a commercial success, showcasing his ability to blend rock and rap with a Southern rock influence.
His subsequent albums, including *Cocky* (2001) and *Rock N Roll Jesus* (2007), continued to solidify his reputation, with songs like “Picture” (featuring Sheryl Crow) and “All Summer Long,” which became popular hits. Kid Rock’s music is characterized by its energetic, rebellious spirit and a wide range of influences.
In addition to his music career, Kid Rock has been involved in various philanthropic efforts and has explored ventures in acting and business. His outspoken personality and diverse musical style have made him a polarizing but influential figure in contemporary American music.
5. Yelawolf
Yelawolf, born Michael Wayne Atha on December 30, 1979, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter known for his unique blend of hip-hop, Southern rock, and country influences. Emerging in the late 2000s, Yelawolf gained recognition with his mixtapes and his debut studio album “Radioactive” (2011), released under Eminem’s Shady Records. His distinctive style and rapid-fire flow are showcased in tracks like “Pop the Trunk” and “Till It’s Gone.” Yelawolf’s subsequent albums, including “Love Story” and “Trial by Fire,” further established his reputation for blending gritty, introspective lyrics with diverse musical styles, solidifying his place in the rap and alternative music scenes.
6. G-Eazy
G-Eazy, born Gerald Earl Gillum on May 24, 1989, in Oakland, California, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter known for his smooth, charismatic delivery and blend of hip-hop and pop influences.
G-Eazy gained prominence with his 2011 mixtape *The Endless Summer* and further established himself with his 2014 album *These Things Happen*. The album featured hit singles like “I Mean It” and “Tumblr Girls,” which helped him gain mainstream attention.
His 2015 album *When It’s Dark Out* included the hit single “Me, Myself & I,” a collaboration with Bebe Rexha, which achieved commercial success. The album’s blend of catchy hooks and introspective lyrics solidified his place in the hip-hop scene.
G-Eazy’s subsequent releases, including *The Beautiful & Damned* (2017) and *Everything’s Strange Here* (2020), continued to explore themes of fame, relationships, and personal struggles, with tracks like “No Limit” (featuring A$AP Rocky and Cardi B) and “Him & I” (with Halsey) gaining significant popularity.
Known for his sleek, stylish persona and his ability to blend various musical influences, G-Eazy has become a notable figure in contemporary hip-hop. His music often combines introspective lyrics with accessible, radio-friendly production, appealing to a broad audience.
7. Machine Gun Kelly
Machine Gun Kelly, born Colson Baker on April 22, 1990, in Houston, Texas, is an American rapper, singer, and actor known for his versatile style that spans rap, punk rock, and alternative genres.
Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) first gained attention with his 2011 mixtape *Rage Pack* and his debut album, *Lace Up* (2012), which featured the hit single “Wild Boy” and showcased his energetic rap style. His follow-up albums, *General Admission* (2015) and *Bloom* (2017), continued to build his reputation with tracks like “Bad Things” (featuring Camila Cabello) and “At My Best.”
In 2019, MGK shifted his musical direction with the album *Hotel Diablo*, which explored a more introspective and alternative rock sound. His 2020 album *Tickets to My Downfall* marked a significant departure from his earlier rap-focused work, embracing a punk rock and pop-punk style. The album included the successful single “Bloody Valentine” and received praise for its fresh, genre-blending approach.
In addition to his music career, MGK has ventured into acting, appearing in films such as *The Dirt* (2019) and *Captive State* (2019). His evolution as an artist reflects his willingness to experiment with different genres and styles, contributing to his dynamic presence in contemporary music and entertainment.
8. Asher Roth
Asher Roth, born August 11, 1985, is an American rapper known for his laid-back style and witty, reflective lyrics. He gained widespread recognition with his 2009 debut single “I Love College,” which became a party anthem and showcased his playful storytelling. His debut album, “Asleep in the Bread Aisle,” featured a blend of humorous and introspective tracks, establishing him as a distinctive voice in hip-hop. Roth’s subsequent projects, including “RetroHash” and “Flowers on the Weekend,” highlight his evolution as an artist, embracing a more experimental and eclectic approach to music. Despite his early mainstream success, Asher Roth remains respected for his originality and lyrical skill.
9. Bubba Sparxxx
Bubba Sparxxx, born Warren Anderson Mathis on March 6, 1977, in LaGrange, Georgia, is an American rapper known for his Southern hip-hop style and blend of country influences with rap.
Bubba Sparxxx first gained prominence with his debut album, *Dark Days, Bright Nights* (2001), which featured the hit single “Ugly.” The album’s fusion of Southern rap and country elements helped establish him as a distinctive voice in the hip-hop scene.
His subsequent album, *Deliverance* (2003), continued to explore this unique blend of styles, featuring tracks like “Back in the Mud” and “Heat It Up.” The album received positive reviews for its innovative approach to Southern rap and its incorporation of country and blues influences.
Bubba Sparxxx’s later work includes albums such as *The Charm* (2006) and *Pain Management* (2008). While he has not achieved the same level of mainstream success as some of his peers, he is recognized for his contributions to Southern rap and his role in blending different musical styles.
Throughout his career, Bubba Sparxxx has been noted for his distinctive voice and his ability to mix traditional Southern rap with elements of country and blues, making him a unique and influential figure in hip-hop.
10. Post Malone
Post Malone, born Austin Richard Post on July 4, 1995, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter known for his eclectic style that blends hip-hop, pop, rock, and country influences. He gained significant attention with his debut single “White Iverson” in 2015, which showcased his melodic flow and unique vocal style. His debut album, “Stoney” (2016), featured hits like “Congratulations” and “Go Flex,” establishing him as a major force in contemporary music. Subsequent albums, including “Beerbongs & Bentleys” and “Hollywood’s Bleeding,” produced chart-topping singles like “Rockstar,” “Psycho,” and “Circles.” Post Malone’s genre-defying sound, combined with his introspective and relatable lyrics, has earned him widespread acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
11. Paul Wall
Paul Wall, born Paul Michael Slayton on March 11, 1981, in Houston, Texas, is an American rapper known for his contributions to Southern hip-hop and his distinctive style, which often includes themes of success, partying, and the Southern lifestyle.
Paul Wall first gained prominence in the early 2000s with his debut album, *The Peoples Champ* (2005), which featured hit singles like “Sittin’ Sidewayz” and “Grillz” (featuring Nelly). The album’s success was partly due to his catchy hooks and the popularization of custom grills (gold and diamond teeth) in hip-hop culture, which he frequently references in his music.
His follow-up album, *Get Money, Stay True* (2007), continued his success with tracks like “Paul Wall” and “Break ‘Em Off.” Wall’s music is characterized by its laid-back, Southern style and often features collaborations with other prominent artists in the genre.
In addition to his solo work, Paul Wall has collaborated with various artists and been involved in the Houston hip-hop scene. He has also ventured into business, including his own line of custom grills and other entrepreneurial ventures.
Paul Wall is known for his contributions to the Southern rap scene, his distinctive voice, and his role in popularizing the grill culture within hip-hop.
12. Mac Miller
Mac Miller, born Malcolm James McCormick on January 19, 1992, was an American rapper, singer, and producer known for his introspective lyrics and genre-blending music. Emerging in the early 2010s with mixtapes like “K.I.D.S.” and “Best Day Ever,” he gained mainstream success with his debut studio album “Blue Slide Park” (2011). Over time, Miller’s music evolved, showcasing deeper lyrical content and experimentation with jazz, funk, and soul influences. Albums like “Watching Movies with the Sound Off,” “GO:OD AM,” and “Swimming” highlighted his growth as an artist. Tragically, Mac Miller passed away in 2018, but his legacy continues to impact the music world.
13. Action Bronson
Action Bronson, born Ariyan Arslani on December 2, 1983, in Queens, New York, is an American rapper, chef, and television personality known for his distinctive voice, elaborate lyricism, and blend of culinary and music interests.
Action Bronson gained recognition in the early 2010s with his debut mixtapes, such as *Dr. Lecter* (2011) and *Blue Chips* (2012), which showcased his unique style and witty, often food-themed lyrics. His debut studio album, *Saaab Stories* (2013), in collaboration with producer Harry Fraud, further established his reputation in hip-hop.
Bronson’s subsequent albums, including *Mr. Wonderful* (2015) and *Blue Chips 7000* (2017), continued to build on his distinctive sound, blending complex, often humorous lyrics with lush, sample-heavy production. His single “Baby Blue,” featuring Chance the Rapper, became a notable hit from *Mr. Wonderful*.
In addition to his music career, Action Bronson is also known for his work as a chef and television personality. He hosts the culinary shows *F*ck, That’s Delicious* and *The Untitled Action Bronson Show*, where he combines his passion for food with entertainment.
Action Bronson’s unique approach to rap, characterized by his vivid storytelling, distinctive voice, and integration of his culinary interests, has earned him a respected place in contemporary hip-hop.
14. El-P
El-P, born Jaime Meline on March 2, 1975, is an American rapper, producer, and co-founder of the influential hip-hop group Run the Jewels. Known for his dense, abstract lyricism and innovative production style, El-P emerged in the underground rap scene in the late 1990s as a member of the group Company Flow and co-founder of the independent label Definitive Jux. His solo albums, including “Fantastic Damage” and “I’ll Sleep When You’re Dead,” received critical acclaim for their gritty, futuristic soundscapes and complex themes. With Run the Jewels, El-P has achieved mainstream success, blending politically charged lyrics with hard-hitting beats alongside partner Killer Mike.
15. Aesop Rock
Aesop Rock, born Ian Matthias Bavitz on June 5, 1976, in Long Island, New York, is an American rapper and producer renowned for his complex, abstract lyrics and distinctive delivery. He is a prominent figure in underground hip-hop and known for his intricate wordplay and unique vocal style.
Aesop Rock first gained attention with his debut album, *Music for Earthworms* (2001), which was followed by *Labor Days* (2001). *Labor Days* was critically acclaimed for its innovative approach and lyrical depth, featuring tracks like “Daylight” and “None Shall Pass.”
His subsequent albums, including *The Impossible Kid* (2016) and *Spirit World Field Guide* (2020), continued to showcase his lyrical prowess and creative production. Songs like “None Shall Pass” and “Rings” highlight his ability to weave intricate narratives and explore abstract themes.
Aesop Rock is also known for his collaborations with other artists and his involvement with the underground hip-hop collective Def Jux. His music often features dense, poetic lyrics and esoteric references, creating a distinct and intellectually engaging style that has earned him a dedicated following within the hip-hop community.