15 Best Rappers of All Time

Rappers, with their lyrical prowess and rhythmic flow, represent a vibrant and dynamic form of musical expression. Rooted in the genre of hip-hop, rappers utilize words as their primary instrument, weaving intricate rhymes and storytelling techniques to captivate audiences.

Rappers often emerge from diverse backgrounds, bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to their craft. They use their verses to paint vivid pictures of life, expressing personal narratives, social commentary, and cultural reflections. With their clever wordplay and poetic prowess, rappers have the ability to convey complex ideas and emotions, tackling subjects ranging from love and ambition to social issues and political activism.

At the heart of rap lies the art of freestyling, where rappers showcase their improvisational skills and lyrical dexterity. Their ability to deliver rapid-fire verses and engage in spontaneous wordplay is a testament to their creativity and quick thinking. Rappers also spend countless hours perfecting their writing and delivery, refining their flows and mastering their cadences to create a unique and recognizable style.

Beyond the music, rappers often become powerful voices for their communities, addressing social injustices and advocating for change. They use their platform to shed light on societal issues, promote unity, and empower marginalized voices. Rappers are cultural influencers, shaping trends in fashion, language, and popular culture.

Whether performing in intimate venues or headlining sold-out stadiums, rappers command stages with their energy and charisma. They have the ability to move crowds with their infectious beats, thought-provoking lyrics, and electrifying performances. Rappers have become iconic figures in the music industry, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape and inspiring generations with their artistry and storytelling abilities.

1. Tupac Shakur

Tupac Shakur – the iconic rapper – is a renowned figure amongst the greatest rappers of all time. His raps are infused with thought-provoking lyrics and raw emotion, making him a legend in the rap industry.

Birth Name: Tupac Amaru Shakur

Date of Birth: June 16, 1971

Place of Birth: East Harlem, New York City, U.S.

Genres: Hip Hop, Gangsta Rap, Conscious Rap

Albums Sold Worldwide: Over 75 million copies.

Despite his untimely death in '96, Tupac's influence lives on in the hearts of music fans across the globe. He used his music to shed light on issues like racism, violence, and poverty.

To appreciate Tupac's legacy, delve into his discography – 'Me Against The World', 'All Eyez on Me', 'The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory', for example. Also, check out his collabs with other artists – 'California Love' with Dr. Dre, 'Changes' feat. Talent, and more. You'll understand his artistic growth and how he influenced other musicians.

Also, explore his poetry and writings to gain insight into his mindset. His poems honestly tell stories of his personal experiences, emotions, and social issues.

Don't forget about his activism and dedication to the community. He used his platform to fight against injustices. Look up documentaries and interviews to learn more about his social impact.

Tupac Shakur is an immortal figure in the rap game. His captivating presence, powerful stage performances, and timeless music continue to inspire many. To truly understand his contribution to rap music, dive into his discography, collaborations, writings, and social impact.

2. The Notorious B.I.G.

Christopher Wallace, known by his stage name The Notorious B.I.G., is a legendary rapper. He grew up in Brooklyn, New York and had a unique style and powerful delivery.

Achievements:

1. Albums: Released two highly-praised studio albums: "Ready to Die" (1994) and "Life After Death" (1997).
2. Hits: Made iconic tracks such as "Juicy," "Big Poppa," and "Hypnotize," still popular to this day.
3. Influence: Paved the way for East Coast hip-hop with his rhymes and storytelling.

The Notorious B.I.G. was known for his flow and authentic lyrics. His rhymes created pictures that mesmerized listeners and cemented his legacy.

Despite facing many difficulties, such as a troubled childhood and legal issues, The Notorious B.I.G. used music to express himself. His struggles were the driving force behind his art.

One legendary instance of The Notorious B.I.G.'s success was the song "Mo Money Mo Problems." The track, featuring Diddy and Mase, was an instant hit and topped the charts worldwide. This showed his ability to craft catchy and unforgettable music, as well as his broad appeal.

Jay-Z could make a rap battle into a business venture and still come out on top.

3. Jay-Z

Jay-Z is a hip-hop icon. His lyrical skills and business savvy have made a lasting mark in the industry. He's sold over 100 million records worldwide – one of the best-sellers ever. Plus, he's earned 23 Grammy Awards – making him one of the most successful artists ever.

Jay-Z has also made his mark as an entrepreneur. He co-founded Roc-A-Fella Records and launched the careers of many other artists. On top of that, he has ventured into fashion collaborating with big brands.

Fun fact: Jay-Z became the first hip-hop billionaire, according to Forbes magazine, in 2019. Even after all these years, Nas still knows how to rap and hit harder than my credit score.

4. Nas

Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones, born on September 14th 1973 in Queens, New York City, is renowned for his significant impact on the rap industry. His lyrical prowess and storytelling are praised as some of the greatest ever.

Apart from his musical talent, Nas is also celebrated for his social activism and political outspokenness. He uses his platform to address issues such as racial inequality and social injustice.

One interesting part of Nas' history is his album "Illmatic." It was released in 1994 and was praised for its raw lyricism. Despite its initial modest success, it later gained recognition as a classic in the genre.

Nas continues to inspire artists with his meaningful lyrics and artistic integrity. His contributions to rap music have left an everlasting mark on the industry and earned him a place as one of the greatest rappers. Even if you don't like rap, you have to admit that Nas has more skill with words than most politicians do with lies.

5. Eminem

Eminem is one of the greatest! At number 5 on the list, let's explore his career. Here are some fun facts:

• Release Year: 1996
• Albums Sold Worldwide: Over 220 million
• Grammy Awards: 15
• Billboard Hot 100 Hits: 9
• Notable Songs: "Lose Yourself," "Stan," "The Real Slim Shady"

He was one of the first white rappers to make it big. He broke down barriers and opened the way for others.

Pro Tip: His lyrics are emotional and raw. Learn from his storytelling skills to help your own craft. Eminem raps so hard, he can put you in a coma and still kill your dreams!

6. Rakim

Rakim, a renowned figure in music, is famed for his unique style and lyrical genius. His collaborations with other artists have crafted some iconic tracks. He was even listed as one of the "50 Greatest MCs of All Time" by Rolling Stone magazine! William Michael Griffin Jr. was born on January 28th, 1968 in Wyandanch, New York, and produces hip hop albums like Paid in Full, The 18th Letter, and The Seventh Seal. Move over, refrigerators, Rakim is the coolest rapper in town!

7. Ice Cube

Ice Cube is a legendary artist, known for his powerful lyrics and raw storytelling. He was born O'Shea Jackson and was part of the influential rap group N.W.A. His solo career skyrocketed too!

Achievements:

1. Debut Album: AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted
2. Iconic Songs: "It Was A Good Day", "Check Yo Self", "Straight Outta Compton"
3. Movie Career: Friday (1995), Boyz n the Hood (1991), Barbershop (2002)

Ice Cube is renowned for staying true to his roots and addressing social and political issues in his music. His thought-provoking lyrics reflect life in inner-city America and he's praised for his artistic integrity.

Don't miss out! Immerse yourself in the world of Ice Cube's discography and filmography. Join the millions of people who have found inspiration in his musical legacy. And let's not forget Andre 3000 – he knows how to rock the mic! Are there really 2,998 other amazing rappers out there?

8. Andre 3000

Renowned rapper Andre 3000, known for his stylish flow and top-notch lyrics, is at #8 on the list of the greatest rappers ever. Let's learn more about this legend:

• Real Name: Andre Lauren Benjamin
• Birthdate: May 27, 1975
• Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia
• Main Group: Outkast (1991-2007)
• Solo Albums: "The Love Below" (2003) and "I Want You" (2023)

Plus, he didn't just excel in music – Andre also shone on the big screen, appearing in films like "Four Brothers" and "Be Cool." His fashion sense is one-of-a-kind, mixing a range of styles and trends. He's a true inspiration to many.

It's not only us who think highly of him – Rolling Stone placed his verse on Outkast's hit single "Hey Ya!" among the best rap verses in history. Even Snoop Dogg's rhymes can't compete!

9. Snoop Dogg

Snoop Dogg, the iconic rapper who defines his own style and has a swag-filled flow, is placed at number 9 on our list of best rappers ever.

We looked into Snoop's career and found he created many number 1 albums, and worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. He's also credited for impacting West Coast hip-hop with his signature sound.

Let's break it down:

• Albums: Snoop has a whopping 17 studio albums! His debut, "Doggystyle," is one of the most well-known and successful albums.
• Collaborations: Snoop has teamed up with artists such as Dr. Dre, Pharrell Williams, and Tupac Shakur. These collaborations lead to some of his most beloved songs and established him as an icon.
• Influence: Snoop's flow and unique vocal style has had a huge impact on the genre. Many musicians look to him as an inspiration, which explains why West Coast gangsta rap is so popular.

Snoop has been in the game for decades, yet he still stays current and evolves as an artist. His ability to stay true to himself while adapting to changing trends is incredible.

Don't miss out on Snoop Dogg's music! Get ready to dance to the beats and immerse yourself in the world of one of rap's greatest legends.

10. Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar, a legendary rapper in the music biz, holds the 10th spot on the list of best rappers ever. Let's have a look at his amazing career and figure out why he deserves the recognition.

To comprehend Kendrick's impact, let's take a look at his career in more detail:

Column 1: Albums

1. Good Kid, M.A.A.D City
2. To Pimp a Butterfly
3. DAMN.

Column 2: Awards

• Grammy Awards: Has won 13 throughout his career.
• Pulitzer Prize for Music: In 2018, he became the first non-classical and non-jazz artist to win this prestigious award.

Column 3: Influence

• Social Commentary: Addresses issues like racism, poverty, and gang violence.
• Musical Innovation: Blends hip-hop, jazz, funk, and soul into his music.

Unique Details About Kendrick Lamar:

• Collaborations: Worked with renowned artists such as Dr. Dre, Rihanna, and Taylor Swift.
• Activism: Participates in social activism and supports initiatives for positive change in marginalized communities.

Here's how to appreciate Kendrick Lamar's artistry:

1. Listen Attentively: Listen deeply to his lyrics to understand the messages. Pay attention to the storytelling techniques he uses.
2. Explore His Discography: Take time to discover his albums and experience the development of his sound and themes.
3. Attend Live Performances: Witness Kendrick Lamar's live acts and feel the energy and passion he brings on stage.

By following these suggestions, you can gain a better appreciation for Kendrick Lamar's musical genius and recognize the effect he has had in the industry. His mix of social commentary and musical innovation make him one of the greatest rappers of all time, just like LL Cool J – the Cool J standing for "Just try and keep up with his flow, if you can't, then you're not cool enough".

11. LL Cool J

LL Cool J, otherwise known as James Todd Smith, is renowned as one of the greatest rappers of all time. He's gained a rightful place on this list with his talent and influence in the rap industry.

When assessing LL Cool J's career, it's key to consider his accomplishments and contributions. Here are some highlights of his success:

• Age: 53 years old
• Birthplace: Bay Shore, New York
• Albums Released: Over 20 albums
• Popular Hits: "Mama Said Knock You Out," "I Need Love," "Hey Lover"
• Acting Career: Notable roles in films, such as "Deep Blue Sea," and TV series, like "NCIS: Los Angeles."

He's not only achieved success as a rapper, but also made strides in acting. This versatility shows his immense talent and love for the entertainment field.

It's also essential not to ignore LL Cool J's cultural impact. He had a vital role in popularizing rap music with mainstream audiences and breaking down genre barriers. His music still resonates with fans, young and old, demonstrating his everlasting influence.

When discussing the history of hip-hop, LL Cool J's significant mark can't be overlooked. With his electrifying performances and meaningful lyrics, he has left a permanent legacy that will continue to motivate future generations.

Don't miss out on recognizing LL Cool J's legendary status as one of the best rappers ever. Take a minute to indulge yourself in his artistry and understand why he's still a major figure in music and entertainment.

12. KRS-One

KRS-One, placed 12th on the list of greatest rappers ever, is an iconic figure in hip-hop. He's been active for more than 30 years, leaving a lasting mark on the genre. His skillful lyricism and wordplay are renowned, but he's also known for advocating social justice.

KRS-One created the Stop the Violence Movement to stand up against violence in the hip-hop community. He also held lectures and workshops to spread knowledge about philosophy and culture.

Aspiring rappers can learn from KRS-One's legacy:

1. Get knowledge: KRS-One emphasized learning and education. Spend time to learn diverse topics to improve your songs.
2. Be true to yourself: KRS-One stayed true to his beliefs. Find your own voice and let it shine through your music.
3. Use your influence right: Like KRS-One, rappers can use their platform to speak up on important social issues.
4. Evolve: Keep up with the ever-changing hip-hop scene. KRS-One was never afraid to experiment and adapt.

KRS-One did more than just make great music. He left a legacy that proved even Big Daddy Kane can drop beats harder than your mama's favorite frying pan.

13. Big Daddy Kane

Big Daddy Kane, at number thirteen on the list, is famed for his crafty lyrics and suave flow. He left a deep impression on the rap scene with his special mix of storytelling and skill. Let's take a look at some interesting facts about this legendary MC.

Antonio Hardy is his real name and he's from Brooklyn, New York. Born on September 10th, 1968, he gained fame during the golden era of hip-hop in the 1980's and quickly became one of its most celebrated figures. He was known for his confident performances and charismatic delivery, plus his wordplay and rhyme schemes.

Big Daddy Kane was also a trendsetter when it came to style. He made high-top fades popular and expressed a fancy fashion sense that many rappers followed after him.

Albums like "Long Live the Kane" (1988) and "It's A Big Daddy Thing" (1989) proved Big Daddy Kane was a force to be reckoned with. Tracks like "Ain't No Half-Steppin'" and "Smooth Operator" display his masterful storytelling and effortless flow.

To appreciate Big Daddy Kane's influence on hip-hop, you need to recognize how he opened the door for future rap stars. His impact can be seen in artists such as Jay-Z, Eminem, and Nas, among many others.

Don't miss out on Big Daddy Kane's discography. Listen to his music to witness the magic that made him one of the greatest MCs of all time.

14. Chuck D

Chuck D is a rap icon who is renowned for his thought-provoking lyrics and electrifying stage presence. Over the course of many years, he has made his mark in hip-hop history. Here are some key facts about Chuck D:

• Birth Name: Carlton Douglas Ridenhour
• Date of Birth: August 1, 1960
• Place of Birth: Roosevelt, New York, USA
• Nationality: American
• Genre: Hip Hop
• Career Highlights: Member of Public Enemy; Inducted into Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (2013); Activist for African-American rights.

Apart from his music, Chuck D is also a prominent activist. He uses his platform to speak out for African-American rights and social justice. His activism has made him a hero of the fight for equality.

One story about Chuck D involves his collaboration with Spike Lee on the "Do The Right Thing" soundtrack. The song "Fight the Power," written and performed by Chuck D and Public Enemy, has become a popular anthem for protesters and a symbol of opposition against racism.

15. Outkast (Big Boi and Andre 3000)

Outkast (Big Boi and Andre 3000) have earned their place among the 15 greatest rappers of all time. These two have left a lasting impression on the music industry, with their distinct sound resonating with listeners worldwide. Let's delve into the details of Outkast's career:

• Formed in 1992, Atlanta, Georgia
• Breakthrough album: "Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik"
• Notable Hits: "Hey Ya!", "Roses", "Ms. Jackson"
• Awards: Six Grammys
• Legacy: Innovators of Southern hip hop

Outkast moved away from the usual rap style, embracing experimentation with elements of funk, soul, and electronic music. Their ability to mix these influences together is what made them stand out. To appreciate their contributions, here are some suggestions:

1. Listen to their entire discography; observe how they evolved as artists.
2. Focus on their lyrics and story-telling. Every track is a unique tale.
3. Analyze the production choices in their songs; they were always pushing boundaries.
4. Recognize the social commentary in their work; thought-provoking and powerful.

Exploring Outkast's world is the best way to understand their influence on rap and music. From defying conventions to experimenting with sound, Outkast remains a trailblazer whose impact will continue to inspire upcoming generations of artists.

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.