Hip-hop singers, or rappers, are artists who express themselves through rhythmic, rhymed lyrics delivered in a distinctive style. Originating in the 1970s Bronx, hip-hop has evolved into a diverse genre encompassing various sub-styles and influences. Key figures include pioneers like Grandmaster Flash and Run-D.M.C., and contemporary stars such as Kendrick Lamar and Drake. These artists often address social issues, personal experiences, and cultural commentary in their music. Hip-hop singers blend lyrical prowess with dynamic beats and innovative production, contributing to a genre known for its powerful impact on popular culture and its ability to shape conversations on identity and society.
1. Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur, also known as 2Pac, was a highly influential American rapper and actor known for his profound and often provocative lyrics. Born on June 16, 1971, in East Harlem, New York, Tupac’s music addressed themes of social justice, systemic inequality, and personal struggles. His albums, such as *All Eyez on Me* and *Me Against the World*, are celebrated for their lyrical depth and emotional intensity. Shakur was also an outspoken advocate for the Black community and used his platform to address issues like police brutality and racial discrimination. His career was tragically cut short when he was murdered in a drive-by shooting on September 13, 1996. Despite his early death, Tupac remains a seminal figure in hip-hop, leaving a lasting legacy through his music and activism.
2. The Notorious B.I.G.
The Notorious B.I.G., born Christopher Wallace in 1972, was an influential American rapper known for his storytelling prowess and smooth flow. Rising to prominence in the early 1990s, his debut album *Ready to Die* and the posthumous *Life After Death* are landmark records in hip-hop, featuring hits like “Juicy” and “Big Poppa.” His lyrical content often explored themes of street life, struggle, and success, with a charismatic delivery that left a lasting impact on the genre. Despite his tragic murder in 1997, Biggie’s legacy endures as one of the greatest and most influential figures in hip-hop history.
3. Jay-Z
Jay-Z, born Shawn Carter in 1969, is an influential American rapper, entrepreneur, and producer. Rising from Brooklyn’s Marcy Projects, he became one of hip-hop’s most prominent figures with his debut album *Reasonable Doubt* and subsequent releases like *The Blueprint* and *The Black Album*. Known for his lyrical prowess, business acumen, and innovation, Jay-Z has achieved critical and commercial success with hits such as “99 Problems” and “Empire State of Mind.” Beyond music, he has made significant contributions to business and culture, founding Roc Nation, and becoming a billionaire through ventures in music, fashion, and sports.
4. Eminem
Eminem, born Marshall Mathers in 1972, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer known for his complex lyrics and controversial themes. Emerging from Detroit’s underground scene, he gained widespread recognition with his debut album *Infinite* and breakthrough release *The Slim Shady LP*. Known for his rapid-fire delivery and alter ego Slim Shady, Eminem’s influential albums, including *The Marshall Mathers LP*, *The Eminem Show*, and *Recovery*, feature hits like “Lose Yourself” and “Stan.” His impact on hip-hop is profound, addressing personal struggles, social issues, and pushing the boundaries of the genre. Eminem is widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
5. Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Broadus Jr. in 1971, is an influential American rapper, songwriter, and actor. Emerging in the early 1990s, he gained fame with his debut album “Doggystyle,” which showcased his distinctive laid-back flow and contributed to the popularity of West Coast hip-hop. Known for his smooth delivery and charisma, Snoop Dogg has released numerous successful albums and singles, including “Gin and Juice” and “Drop It Like It’s Hot.” Beyond music, he has ventured into acting, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, establishing himself as a prominent and versatile figure in entertainment and pop culture.
6. Nas
Nas, born Nasir Jones in 1973, is an American rapper and songwriter renowned for his lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities. He rose to prominence with his 1994 debut album, “Illmatic,” which is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. Nas’s music often explores themes such as social issues, personal experiences, and street life, marked by his complex rhyme schemes and vivid imagery. Over his career, he has released numerous acclaimed albums, including “It Was Written,” “Stillmatic,” and “King’s Disease,” earning him a reputation as one of the most influential and respected figures in hip-hop.
7. Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar, born in 1987 in Compton, California, is an acclaimed American rapper, songwriter, and producer. Known for his introspective lyrics and complex storytelling, Lamar has become one of the most influential voices in contemporary hip-hop. His albums, including *good kid, m.A.A.d city*, *To Pimp a Butterfly*, and *DAMN.*, are celebrated for their exploration of personal, social, and political themes. Lamar’s work often delves into issues like racial identity, systemic inequality, and personal struggle, earning him critical acclaim and several Grammy Awards. His innovative approach and profound impact on the genre have solidified his reputation as one of the leading figures in modern rap.
8. Ice Cube
Ice Cube, born O’Shea Jackson in 1969, is an influential American rapper, actor, and filmmaker. He first gained prominence as a member of the pioneering rap group N.W.A, known for its raw depiction of life in Compton and its outspoken social commentary. After leaving N.W.A, Ice Cube launched a successful solo career with impactful albums like *AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted* and *Death Certificate*, which address themes of racial injustice and urban life. Beyond music, Ice Cube has made significant contributions to film and television, with notable roles in movies such as *Boyz n the Hood* and *Friday*, and as a producer of successful projects in both entertainment and sports.
9. Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne, born Dwayne Michael Carter Jr. in 1982, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record executive. Emerging in the late 1990s with his debut album “Tha Block Is Hot,” he gained widespread acclaim for his distinctive voice, inventive wordplay, and prolific output. Known for hits like “Lollipop,” “A Milli,” and “6 Foot 7 Foot,” Lil Wayne’s influence extends across hip-hop, with his work often featuring a blend of catchy hooks and complex lyrical content. His mixtapes, such as “Da Drought” series and “No Ceilings,” have also contributed to his reputation as a highly influential figure in contemporary rap music.
10. Drake
Drake, born Aubrey Drake Graham in 1986, is a Canadian rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. Emerging from Toronto’s music scene, he gained fame with his mixtapes, particularly *So Far Gone*, which led to his breakthrough album *Thank Me Later*. Known for blending rap with R&B and pop, Drake’s music often features introspective lyrics and a melodic style. His influential albums, including *Take Care*, *Nothing Was the Same*, and *Scorpion*, have produced numerous chart-topping hits like “Hotline Bling” and “God’s Plan.” Drake’s versatility and commercial success have established him as one of the most prominent and influential artists in contemporary music.
11. Kanye West
Kanye West, born Kanye Omari West in 1977, is an American rapper, producer, and fashion designer known for his groundbreaking work in hip-hop and beyond. He first gained recognition with his 2004 debut album, “The College Dropout,” which showcased his innovative production techniques and introspective lyrics. West is celebrated for his genre-defying albums, including “Late Registration,” “Graduation,” and “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,” each marked by experimental sounds and ambitious concepts. In addition to his music career, Kanye has made significant strides in fashion with his Yeezy brand and has been a prominent figure in popular culture and public discourse.
12. Rakim
Rakim, born William Michael Griffin Jr. in 1968, is a seminal American rapper renowned for his profound impact on the evolution of hip-hop. As one half of the influential duo Eric B. & Rakim, his complex lyricism and innovative flow set new standards in rap. Their groundbreaking albums, such as *Paid in Full* and *Follow the Leader*, are celebrated for Rakim’s intricate rhymes and philosophical content. His smooth delivery and storytelling ability helped redefine rap’s lyrical approach, influencing countless artists and shaping the genre’s development. Rakim’s legacy as one of the greatest MCs is marked by his contributions to the art of rapping and hip-hop culture.
13. Andre 3000
André 3000, born André Benjamin in 1975, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor best known as one half of the influential hip-hop duo OutKast, alongside Big Boi. Renowned for his eclectic style and innovative approach to music, André 3000 has been a key figure in shaping modern hip-hop and R&B. OutKast’s albums, such as “Aquemini” and “Stankonia,” are celebrated for their genre-blending and creative depth. André 3000’s solo work, including features on various tracks and his solo contributions, showcases his versatility and artistic range. His contributions extend to acting, with notable roles in films like “Be Cool” and “Four Brothers.”
14. J. Cole
J. Cole, born Jermaine Lamarr Cole in 1985, is an American rapper, songwriter, and producer known for his introspective lyrics and socially conscious themes. Emerging from Fayetteville, North Carolina, he gained recognition with his debut mixtape *The Come Up* and solidified his place in the industry with his debut album *Cole World: The Sideline Story*. His subsequent albums, including *Born Sinner*, *2014 Forest Hills Drive*, and *KOD*, are praised for their storytelling and exploration of personal and societal issues. Cole’s influence extends beyond music, as he is also noted for his role in fostering new talent and addressing contemporary issues through his work.
15. Dr. Dre
Dr. Dre, born Andre Young in 1965, is an American rapper, producer, and entrepreneur renowned for his significant impact on hip-hop. He first gained prominence as a member of the pioneering gangsta rap group N.W.A. before launching a highly successful solo career. His 1992 album “The Chronic” was groundbreaking, shaping the sound of West Coast hip-hop with its G-funk style. Dr. Dre is also known for producing influential albums for other artists, including Snoop Dogg’s “Doggystyle” and Eminem’s “The Slim Shady LP.” Additionally, he co-founded Beats by Dre, a major player in the headphone market, and has been instrumental in discovering and nurturing new talent in the industry.
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.
