Introduction
In the deafeningly dynamic panorama of the rhythm and poetry (rap) genre, we present you our meticulously curated list of top 100 rappers who have not only been instrumental in shaping the rap landscape but also left an irreversible impact on music itself.
The Pioneering Geniuses
1-10
While talking about creators who have paved the way, one cannot afford to miss Grandmaster Flash, whose iconic track ‘The Message’ has now become an anthem for societal issues often overlooked. The list of pioneering geniuses is incomplete without the versatile Dr. Dre, the dramaturge behind the mercurial rise of N.W.A., which was instrumental in defining West Coast hip-hop’s g-funk sound. KRS-One, Afrika Bambaataa, Run-D.M.C., Big Daddy Kane, Erik B. & Rakim, LL Cool J, Kool Moe Dee, and Slick Rick, with their timeless contributions, have undoubtedly earned themselves the tags of trailblazing legends.
The Couriers of Technique and Talent
11-20
In the sphere of technical rappers who have honed their craft to achieve hitherto unheard of levels of proficiency, the names of Nas, Jay-Z, Eminem, Biggie Smalls, Tupac Shakur, Ice Cube, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, MF DOOM, and Joey Bada$$ come forth. They are universally-celebrated titans, who have, with their thought-provoking lyrics and hypnotic flow, revolutionized the art of rap.
The Unconventional Virtuosos
21-30
The next set of entrants in our list have dabbled in offbeat paths to capture the listeners’ psyche in extraordinary ways. Rappers like Tyler, The Creator, Aesop Rock, Danny Brown, Death Grips, M.I.A., Bjork, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, Madlib, and Q-Tip have shattered the established notions of hip-hop with their unique style characterized by alternatively constructed beats and inventive lyrics.
The Embodiments of Swag and Charisma
31-40
The genre of rap is not all about verbal dexterity. It’s often swag and charisma that form the heady mix that attracts the masses. Spearing the charge are Notorious B.I.G., P. Diddy, Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, Andre 3000, Pharrell Williams, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, Travis Scott, and Post Malone. These artists have made heads turn and bodies move with their mesmerizing stage presence and infectious hooks.
The Vanguard of Rap Lyrical Genius
41-50
When we delve into the realm of lyrical profundity, rappers like Common, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Black Thought, Lupe Fiasco, Wale, Jadakiss, Royce Da 5’9", Canibus, and Immortal Technique demonstrate the essence of pure poetry in its most honest form.
The Storytelling Maestros
51-60
True artists paint pictures with words, and the likes of Logic, Big L, Scarface, Guru, Staekwon, Redman, The Game, E-40, Wu-Tang Clan, and Tech N9ne are such parables of storytelling prowess who effectively transport listeners to different states of consciousness.
Remainder of the List
61-100
There are many more rappers who contribute massively to the rap repertoire, and merit mention. These include Pusha T, Joyner Lucas, Machine Gun Kelly, Lil’ Kim, Nicki Minaj, Drake, Lil Pump, Kodak Black, YG, ASAP Rocky, Rick Ross, Lil Uzi Vert, 21 Savage, DaBaby, Lil Baby, Blueface, Trippie Redd, 6ix9ine, Cordae, Lil Yachty, Playboi Carti, among others.
Conclusion
This well-researched and comprehensive list accounts for a wide gamut of talent that ultimately forms the riveting universe of rap. This ever-evolving genre continually induces new life into its sphere and continues to be a crucial medium of self-expression and storytelling in music.
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