White rappers have made significant contributions to hip-hop, often bringing unique perspectives and styles to the genre. Their work can range from playful and humorous to deeply introspective and socially conscious. These artists have navigated the complexities of race and identity within the genre, achieving both critical acclaim and commercial success. Their influence extends across various aspects of hip-hop culture, from lyrical innovation to production techniques. While they have often faced scrutiny and challenges, their contributions have enriched the genre and broadened its appeal, showcasing the diversity and inclusivity that hip-hop can embody.
1. Eminem
Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III, is one of the most influential and successful rappers in history. Known for his rapid-fire delivery, intricate rhyme schemes, and emotionally charged lyrics, Eminem has made a profound impact on hip-hop since his breakthrough in the late 1990s. His albums, including *The Slim Shady LP*, *The Marshall Mathers LP*, and *Recovery*, have earned him critical acclaim and commercial success, with hits like “Lose Yourself,” “Stan,” and “Love the Way You Lie.” Eminem’s ability to blend personal struggles with sharp social commentary has resonated with a global audience, establishing him as a seminal figure in modern rap.
2. Beastie Boys
The Beastie Boys, consisting of Mike D (Michael Diamond), MCA (Adam Yauch), and Ad-Rock (Adam Horovitz), are a seminal hip-hop group known for their innovative approach and genre-defying sound. Emerging in the early 1980s, they initially gained attention with their debut album *Licensed to Ill*, which featured hits like “Fight For Your Right” and “No Sleep Till Brooklyn.” Their eclectic style, blending punk rock energy with rap, helped shape the direction of hip-hop and broaden its appeal. Albums like *Paul’s Boutique* and *Ill Communication* showcased their creativity and lyrical depth. The Beastie Boys are celebrated for their pioneering contributions, activism, and lasting influence on music and culture.
3. Macklemore
Macklemore, born Benjamin Haggerty, is a rapper and songwriter known for his catchy hooks and socially conscious lyrics. Rising to prominence in the early 2010s with his collaborative partner Ryan Lewis, Macklemore achieved widespread success with hits like “Thrift Shop” and “Can’t Hold Us,” both from the album *The Heist*. His music often explores themes of individuality, social justice, and personal reflection, setting him apart with a blend of humor and earnestness. Macklemore’s approach to hip-hop emphasizes originality and positive messaging, earning him both commercial success and critical acclaim. His impact is notable for his contributions to contemporary rap and his ability to address relevant social issues.
4. Kid Rock
Kid Rock, born Robert James Ritchie on January 17, 1971, in Romeo, Michigan, is an American singer, songwriter, and musician known for his eclectic blend of rock, rap, and country music. His career has been marked by a diverse range of styles and a dynamic stage presence.
Kid Rock first gained prominence with his debut album, *Grits Sandwiches for Breakfast* (1990), which combined rap with rock elements. However, he achieved mainstream success with his 1998 album *Devil Without a Cause*, featuring hits like “Bawitdaba” and “Cowboy.” The album’s fusion of rock, rap, and country established him as a distinctive and influential figure in popular music.
His subsequent albums, including *Cocky* (2001) and *Rock N Roll Jesus* (2007), continued his success, with hits such as “Picture” (a duet with Sheryl Crow) and “All Summer Long.” Kid Rock’s music often reflects a blend of genres and a rebellious, working-class ethos. In addition to his music career, he has been involved in various philanthropic efforts and is known for his outspoken personality and political views.
5. Yelawolf
Yelawolf, born Michael Wayne Atha on December 30, 1979, in Gadsden, Alabama, is an American rapper and songwriter known for his Southern rap style and eclectic musical influences. His stage name, Yelawolf, reflects his Southern roots and his energetic, distinctive approach to hip-hop.
Yelawolf gained attention with his debut mixtape, *Psychedelic Sexx* (2007), and his first studio album, *Creekwater* (2009). He achieved greater prominence with his 2011 album *Radioactive*, which featured a mix of rap, rock, and country influences and included popular tracks like “Hard White (Up in the Club)” and “Throw It Up.”
His subsequent albums, including *Love Story* (2015) and *Trial by Fire* (2017), continued to showcase his versatility, blending Southern rap with elements of rock and country. Known for his distinctive voice and lyrical style, Yelawolf’s music often explores themes of personal struggle, Southern identity, and rebellion.
6. G-Eazy
G-Eazy, born Gerald Earl Gillum, is a rapper and songwriter known for his smooth flow and stylish persona. He gained prominence in the mid-2010s with his breakout album *When It’s Dark Out*, which features hits like “Me, Myself & I” and “No Limit.” G-Eazy’s music often blends elements of hip-hop with pop and R&B, showcasing his versatility and mainstream appeal. His lyrical content frequently explores themes of fame, relationships, and personal experiences. With a strong sense of branding and a knack for catchy hooks, G-Eazy has established himself as a prominent figure in contemporary hip-hop.
7. Machine Gun Kelly
Machine Gun Kelly, born Colson Baker, is a versatile artist known for his dynamic approach to music that spans rap, rock, and pop. Emerging in the late 2000s, he gained attention with his rapid-fire rapping and energetic performances. His debut album, *Lace Up*, and subsequent releases like *General Admission* and *Hotel Diablo* showcase his blend of hard-hitting rap and introspective lyrics. In recent years, Machine Gun Kelly has also ventured into pop-punk, with his album *Tickets to My Downfall* marking a shift towards a rock-influenced sound. His genre-crossing style and willingness to experiment have made him a prominent and evolving figure in contemporary music.
8. Asher Roth
Asher Roth, born Asher Paul Roth on August 11, 1985, in Morrisville, Pennsylvania, is an American rapper known for his laid-back style and introspective lyrics. He gained prominence with his 2009 debut album, *Asleep in the Bread Aisle*, which featured the hit single “I Love College.” The track, known for its catchy, college-themed lyrics, helped establish Roth as a notable figure in the hip-hop scene.
Roth’s music often explores themes of youth, self-discovery, and the college experience, blending humor with reflective content. His subsequent albums, including *RetroHash* (2014) and *Flowers on the Weekend* (2018), continue to showcase his distinctive style and versatility.
While Roth’s mainstream success has been more moderate, he remains respected for his unique voice and thoughtful approach to rap, contributing to a diverse and evolving landscape in hip-hop.
9. Bubba Sparxxx
Bubba Sparxxx, born Warren Anderson Mathis on March 6, 1977, in LaGrange, Georgia, is an American rapper known for his Southern rap style and his blend of hip-hop with country influences. His stage name, Bubba Sparxxx, reflects his Southern roots and distinctive approach to the genre.
Bubba Sparxxx gained significant attention with his debut album, *Dark Days, Bright Nights* (2001), which featured the hit single “Ugly.” The track, known for its catchy hook and Southern flavor, helped establish him in the hip-hop scene. His follow-up album, *Deliverance* (2003), showcased a more country-rap fusion and included popular tracks like “Back in the Mud” and “Slow Down.”
His music often incorporates elements of Southern culture and personal experiences, blending traditional rap with country and rock influences. Although Bubba Sparxxx’s mainstream presence has been less prominent in recent years, he is recognized for his unique style and contributions to the Southern rap genre.
10. Post Malone
Post Malone, born Austin Richard Post on July 4, 1995, in Syracuse, New York, is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his genre-blending style, which fuses elements of hip-hop, pop, and rock. He first gained widespread attention with his debut single “White Iverson” in 2015, which showcased his distinctive voice and laid-back style.
His debut album, *Stoney* (2016), featured hits like “Congratulations” and “Go Flex,” establishing him as a major figure in contemporary music. Post Malone’s follow-up albums, *Beerbongs & Bentleys* (2018) and *Hollywood’s Bleeding* (2019), continued his success with chart-topping singles such as “Rockstar,” “Psycho,” and “Circles.”
Known for his versatile sound and unique blend of musical influences, Post Malone has received numerous awards, including several American Music Awards and Billboard Music Awards. His music often explores themes of fame, personal struggle, and relationships, resonating with a broad audience and solidifying his place in modern music.
11. Paul Wall
Paul Wall, born Paul Michael Slayton on March 11, 1981, in Houston, Texas, is an American rapper and entrepreneur known for his contributions to the Southern rap scene. He first gained prominence with his distinctive style and his role in the Houston hip-hop community.
Paul Wall’s debut album, *The Peoples Champ* (2005), was a commercial success, featuring hits like “Sittin’ Sidewayz” and ” grills.” The latter track, which highlighted his signature diamond-encrusted grills, became a defining element of his persona and helped popularize the trend in hip-hop culture.
His subsequent albums, including *Get Money, Stay True* (2007) and *Fast Life* (2009), continued to showcase his Southern rap style and featured collaborations with various artists in the genre. Known for his lyrical focus on street life and his distinctive voice, Paul Wall has been an influential figure in the Southern rap movement and remains active in both music and business ventures.
12. Mac Miller
Mac Miller, born Malcolm James McCormick on January 19, 1992, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He gained prominence with his distinctive style that blended elements of hip-hop, jazz, and alternative music.
Mac Miller’s debut mixtape, *K.I.D.S.* (2010), showcased his talent and helped him gain a following in the underground rap scene. His first studio album, *Blue Slide Park* (2011), debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, featuring popular tracks like “Party on Fifth Ave” and “Frick Park Market.”
Over the years, Miller’s music evolved significantly. Albums such as *Watching Movies with the Sound Off* (2013) and *GO:OD AM* (2015) demonstrated his growth as an artist, with a more introspective and experimental approach. His critically acclaimed 2018 album, *Swimming*, and its posthumous follow-up, *Circles* (2020), showcased his deepening artistry and exploration of personal themes.
Mac Miller’s career was marked by his exploration of different musical styles and his honest, introspective lyrics. He passed away on September 7, 2018, from an accidental drug overdose, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and emotional depth in his music.
13. Action Bronson
Action Bronson, born Ariyan Arslani on December 2, 1983, in Flushing, Queens, New York, is an American rapper, songwriter, and chef known for his distinctive voice, vivid storytelling, and eclectic style. His music often features references to food, pop culture, and luxury, combined with a gritty, streetwise edge.
Bronson first gained attention with his mixtapes, including *Dr. Lecter* (2009) and *Blue Chips* (2012), which showcased his unique lyrical style and humorous, larger-than-life persona. His debut studio album, *Dr. Lecter* (2011), and subsequent albums like *Mr. Wonderful* (2015) and *Only for Dolphins* (2020) continued to build his reputation, featuring tracks like “Baby Blue” and “Actin Crazy.”
In addition to his music career, Action Bronson is known for his work as a chef and television personality. He hosted the food and travel show *F*ck, That’s Delicious*, which highlights his culinary skills and love for food. His multifaceted career reflects his diverse talents and interests, making him a notable figure in both the music and culinary worlds.
14. El-P
El-P, born Jaime Meline, is a highly influential rapper, producer, and songwriter known for his innovative contributions to underground hip-hop. As a founding member of Company Flow, El-P helped shape the sound of indie rap with their groundbreaking album *Funcrusher Plus*. His solo work, including albums like *Fantastic Damage* and *Cancer 4 Cure*, is celebrated for its experimental production, dense lyricism, and political themes. El-P’s distinctive sound, marked by intricate beats and abstract lyrics, has made him a key figure in shaping alternative hip-hop. He is also known for his role in the duo Run the Jewels, alongside Killer Mike, which has further cemented his status in the genre.
15. Aesop Rock
Aesop Rock, born Ian Matthias Bavitz on June 5, 1976, in Portland, Oregon, is an American rapper and songwriter known for his complex lyricism, dense wordplay, and abstract storytelling. His distinctive style blends intricate, often esoteric lyrics with innovative beats and production.
Aesop Rock gained prominence with his 2001 album *Labor Days*, which featured standout tracks like “None Shall Pass” and “Daylight.” His music is characterized by its dense and multifaceted lyrics, tackling themes such as social issues, personal introspection, and surreal imagery.
Subsequent albums, including *The Impossible Kid* (2016) and *Spirit World Field Guide* (2020), continued to showcase his unique approach to rap. Aesop Rock’s work often challenges conventional storytelling and lyrical structure, establishing him as a key figure in underground and alternative hip-hop. His influence extends through his intricate, thought-provoking lyrics and innovative approach to rap music.