The Top 50 Greatest Hip Hop Artists of All Time

In the half-century since its birth, hip hop artists have helped grow grow the culture from a local phenomenon to a global juggernaut that permeates everything, from fashion and books to television and film. Rap culture has given rise to a multitude of talented artists, each leaving their unique stamp on the culture. These iconic figures have stretched the boundaries of lyricism, developed new styles of flow, pushed the genre’s sonic palette, and established themselves as cultural behemoths beyond music.

Yet, among the many, there are those who stand as paragons of the craft, their influence echoing across the generations. From Kanye West’s genre-defying creativity to Queen Latifah’s groundbreaking feministic narratives; from Ice Cube’s raw street tales that birthed gangsta rap to Missy Elliot’s game-changing visuals and incredible delivery; from Jay-Z’s remarkable journey from hustler to billionaire to Kendrick Lamar’s ambitious thematic narratives that have made him a 21st-century icon. Whether we’re talking about the indomitable resilience of 2Pac and the stylistic innovations of Pharrell or the lyrical mastery of Rakim and the storytelling genius of Notorious B.I.G, all of the artists listed below are certified hip-hop game-changers.

So let’s get into it. From pioneers who laid the foundation during the ’80s, to new wave rappers challenging the status quo and further innovating the craft, here are the top 50 greatest hip hop artists of all time.

50. JPEGMafia

Artistic peak: Scaring the Hoes (with Danny Brown)

One of the most interesting hip hop artists in the game today, JPEGMafia is one of the modern vanguards of experimental hip-hop. Fusing industrial sounds, glitchy electronics, and a collage of samples, his music is as unpredictable as it is compelling. As a rapper, Peggy’s lyricism ranges from biting social commentary to vulnerable introspection, delivered with a dynamic flow that veers between agitated screams and soulful crooning. Albums like Veteran and All My Heroes Are Cornballsshowcase a daring artist unafraid to challenge conventions, marking JPEGMafia as a key figure in the future evolution of hip-hop.

49. Juicy J

Artistic peak: When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1

As a co-founder of the legendary group Three 6 Mafia, Juicy J helped shape the gritty, hard-hitting style that would become synonymous with the Memphis sound. Known for his exceptional production ability and a knack for crafting catchy hooks, Juicy J has proven his longevity with a successful solo career highlighted by classic albums like Stay Trippy. His raucous energy and unfiltered, often hedonistic lyrics represent a unique facet of the multifaceted hip-hop diamond, underscoring the genre’s diversity and reach.

48. Future

Artistic peak: Hndrxx

Hailing from the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, Future has emerged as a titan in the hip-hop industry. Even Kanye had to concede that the legendary trap rapper was the most influential rapper of the past decade. As one of the forefathers to many of the rappers running around today, Future has crafted an extensive catalogue that blends booming trap anthems with deep, psychological rumination. From Pluto and DS2 to Hndrxx and The Wizrd, every Future album has seen the Atlanta artist continue to evolve and shape the sound of contemporary hip hop.

47. Mac Miller

Artistic peak: Circles

Mac Miller is a name that resonates deeply within the hip-hop world, and not just for his unfortunate and untimely passing. The Pittsburgh native was known for his playful yet introspective lyrics and innovative production style, often merging traditional hip-hop with elements of jazz, funk, and soul. Mac’s discography, which ranges from the playful bravado of Blue Slide Park to the profound introspection of Swimming, demonstrated his artistic growth and his skill to navigate complex emotions through his music. His impactful, albeit short-lived career, left a lasting impression in the culture, and his musical influence continues to reverberate in the industry.

46. Kool Keith

Artistic peak: Dr. Octagonecologyst

One of the most eccentric and innovative figures in hip-hop, Kool Keith Thornton has consistently pushed the boundaries of lyrical content and stylistic delivery ever since the ’80s. His outlandish personas, including Dr. Octagon and Black Elvis, have allowed him to explore a wide range of themes, from surreal sci-fi narratives to biting social commentary. As a founding member of the Ultramagnetic MCs and through his diverse solo discography, Kool Keith has challenged hip-hop conventions with his unpredictable flows and abstract lyricism. His daring approach to the art of rapping has set a standard for individuality in the culture, making him one of the greatest and most influential underground rappers of all time.

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