Anesthetic
05-22-2005, 08:51 AM
Let the debating begin...
#35. Kurupt
Between 1992 and 2000 this Dogg Pound Gangsta was quite frankly one of the most naturally talented and outstanding talents in rap. Dogg Food and Doggystyle found a Philly-born, L.A.-reppin gangsta slash battle rapper literally ripping up every single verse he touched, and later “Streetz Iz a Mutha” showed a more rounded, capable artist. With a dexterous, pacy flow, venomous rhymes and a freestyle capability that allows him to match up to even the best on this list, Kurupt could have been the next Rakim. It just went wrong somewhere.
Essential Listening: “Dogg Food” (1995), “Tha Streetz Iz a Mutha” (1999)
#34. Xzibit
Xzibit is the best rugged rhymer around; He has a Top 5 voice, searing battle lyrics, yet a fantastically introspective, thoughtful mind that created CLASSIC songs like “Carry the Weight” and “Foundation”. An erstwhile member of the legendary Likwit crew (see Tash), back in the late 90s X was the next underground cat on the verge of blowing up, bigtime. But while a dream affiliation with Dr. Dre helped in some regards - "X" brought X to the Z to the masses like never before in his career - album sales didn't really rocket and he didn't quite explode. Now back with the Likwit fam, let's hope we see another ATSOL.
Essential Listening: “At The Speed Of Life” (1996), Dayz & 40 Nightz” (1998)
#33. O.C.
The man, the myth...Myth? Hrmm.. O.C. is quite possibly the most underrated rapper of all time. Along with Lord Finesse and Big L, O.C.’s skills as an elite emcee pushed the Diggin' in the Crates crew to the forefront of the NYC underground in the early to late 90s. Confident and witty with his braggadacio, but equally adept at switching to introspective, intelligence mindsets, in his prime the Brooklyn rapper released one set-in-stone classic “Word…Life” and a highly impressive follow up. Still active, this cat deserves ridiculously more props than he actually gets, and he's just as good as L..
Essential Listening: “Word…Life” (1994), “Jewelz” (1997)
#32. Pharoah Monch
Listening to a Queens emcee spit is an experience that makes you realise why hip hop is so great. ( Canibus, Aceyalone, Big Pun ) As part of legendary duo Organised Konfusion, the early 90s found the uber-talented Monch obliterating each and every single verse he dropped. The master of breath control, with an out-of-control flow and enchanting delivery, Monch delivers complex, layered lyrics at the speed of light – I have to yet to hear a rap fan criticise him. A series of fine albums with his also-talented partner Prince Po, plus a very good solo effort, meant that the fantastic talent of Monch has largely been exploited, which is very important. How many artists on this list have not had this luxury? While not as active recently, a move to Dr. Dre's Aftermath Entertainment will hopefully see another outstanding solo effort dropping.
Essential Listening: “Organised Konfusion (1991), “Stress: the Extinction Agenda” (1994), “Internal Affairs” (1999)
#31. Gza "The Genius"
The Wu-Tang Clan’s influence on my list should his it's peak here, with their head emcee and lyrical epicentre, Gza. Representing everything that is good about complexity in the art of emceeing, the “Genius” as he is commonly known is undoubtedly the finest exponent of wordplay there is. Quite literally standing out on every single Wu-Tang Clan album there has ever been, the package includes a deceptively skillful flow, a fantastic voice and pin-point, sharp, razor-blade lyrics encompassing obscure metaphors, wonderful double meanings and literary devices the dictionary couldn’t define. His frankly masterpiece solo debut “Liquid Swords” is the second best Wu-Tang solo of all time – quite a compliment – and a number of other solid albums that followed simply backed up that legacy. Unlike the vast majority of this list, at no point in his career has Gza fallen off and he has stayed at the same stratospheric levels of consistency.
Essential Listening: “Liquid Swords” (1995), “Beneath the Surface” (1999)
#30. Lord Finesse
And cracking the Top 30 is LF. Self-proclaimed leader of the Diggin’ in the Crates crew, old school emcee extraordinare Lord Finesse gets few proper props from few heads. Finesse – along with Big Daddy Kane – essentially fathered the witty, punchline-fuelled style that cats like Big L, Chino XL and later Eminem would go on to make a career out of. “Funky Technician” exploded out in 92, a magnificent throwback to the old school, with verse after verse of unrestricted, relentless wordplay and humour crammed rhymes delivered charismatically by Finesse. This fantastic style became a massive hit with the rap crowd, and throughout the 90s the veteran rapper never fell off, eventually moving into production (Finesse’s most famous track to the unenlightened is surely “The Message”, from Dr. Dre's 2001). Finesse has had more impact and influence that your favourite rapper, it’s that simple.
Essential Listening: “Funky Technician” (1992), “The Awakening” (1996)
#29. Inspectah Deck
Inspectah Deck has never been one of the Wu-Tang Clan’s big guns: the limelight has always eluded him. But that suits his style, as the underrated bomb dropper Rebel INS built a reputation as the clan’s best lyricist, bar none. Starring roles on the group’s classic, timeless debut and its follow up Wu-Tang Forever (who can forget his opening verse on the epic “Triumph”?), and a solid solo debut means that Deck has a place in every hardcore hip hop fan’s hearts, forever. A lack of a big, classic solo album hurts him in the overall standings, sadly.
Essential Listening: ”Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” (1993), “Uncontrolled Substance” (1999).
#28. Busta Rhymes
The maddest emcee around, with one of the most distinctive styles on this list, Busta is a far more determined and seasoned industry veteran than his fun loving, manic public exterior suggests. The same goes for his rapping ability, holding his own in accalimed underground battles with the likes of Jay-Z and Eminem. And this has allowed him to hang around the upper epchelons of the rap game for a decade; releasing solid albums, rippin up guest verses, and in general being the Party Clown of the rap world. So why isn't he higher? Well, Busta has this problem, he always sounds the same. Every album is a variation on the same theme as the last - and he's never had a truly outstanding, classic album. Solid artist, but nothing more, sadly.
Essential Listening: "The Coming" (1996), "When Disaster Strikes" (1997)
#27. Snoop Dogg
If this was a list of the most popular or most recognisable rappers around, Snoop would be Top 5. Unfortunately for him, it’s not. His route of entry is mainly through an album called “Doggystyle”: One of rap’s finest albums ever. The Snoop here was a majestic emcee, unfortunately for the vast majority of his career after all we saw was a pale imitation, whose flow disappeared and who seemed to increasingly live off the success of his earlier album. Still, he’s a charismatic, talented (and that’s often forgotten) emcee who can flow better than any other on this list when the moment takes him.
Essential Listening: “The Chronic” (1992), “Doggystyle” (1993)”
#26. Scarface
Quite simply, Scarface is the King of the South. And rightly so, as the veteran gangsta rapper has simply been a beacon of consistency throughout his 20 year career, inspiring and influencing a whole generation of artists. As a member of the infamous, excellent Geto Boys ( The Southern N.W.A.), ‘Face shocked and impressed the nation at the same time with dark, disturbing, crime-ridden tales delivered through his impeccable style: the most idiosyncratic voice in rap and a teary, honest emotional delivery that makes you wanna root for him whatever he’s doing. Going solo Face has been pretty impressive too… and so many big names have worked with him, perhaps to try and capture the hearts and money of his fanbase. Still very relevant in today’s rap scene – check his smash hit My Block from a well-received album The Fix - ‘Face has class and longevity, which bags him a well-deserved spot.
Essential Listening: “The Geto Boys” (1990), “Last of a Dying Breed” (2000), “The Fix” (2002)
#25. Cormega
For many Cormega is, right now, the essential definition of what a “street poet” should be. The former Nas disciple who was once on the peak of fame (and infamy, though he wouldn’t know it at the time) as a member of The Firm, rose from the ashes of a broken career to deliver two near classic albums around the turn of the century. A crisp, slow spitter with a careful delivery and not the best flow in the world, Mega has always relied on poetic, thoughtful rhymes rather than the more natural elements of rapping: maybe that is why he’s so endeared?
Essential Listening: “Tha Realness” (2001), “The True Meaning” (2002)
#24. Jadakiss
The infamous Jason "Jadakiss" Phillips has built a career on the backs of wannabe wise guys unaware of his lyrical dexterity. He has been since early childhood. Word on his witty rhyme prowess began spreading thirteen years ago as a potential-laden twelve-year-old rhyme animal clawing at opponents on the tough turf of Yonkers, NY. Its not that his opponents were lyrically weak in any shape, form or fashion, as they would come to battle equipped with some 16-bar ammo. It's just that the born to kill Jadakiss would extinguish whatever little fumes they'd create with fire lines that averaged 40-bars in length all from the top of his head. Enough said..
Essential Listening: "Kiss Tha Game GoodBye" (2001), "Kiss Of Death" (2004)
#23. LL Cool J
LL Cool J was one of rap’s first genuine transatlantic multi-platinum solo superstars – and to his credit this fact has remained the same throughout his long, distinguished career. Strip away his loverboy persona, the platinum plaques, and the R&B Crossovers, and a lot of people seem to have forgotten that LL is actually a highly talented rapper – his debut albums demonstrated a young and raw B-Boy rapper full of fresh braggadocio and ill rhythms. And young he was, only 17 in 1985 when Radio burst out. Despite the plaques stacking up, LL matured, becoming a seasoned, confident veteran able to take on a whole host of the next generation’s best. And even now, while he’s happy dropping filler-laden commercial albums, he still remains the most relevant old school rapper ever. That’s an achievement in itself. And ok LL did change his sound for the mainstream – but never completely, and it never sounded like his music lost its soul
Essential Listening: "Radio" (1985), "Walking with a Panther" (1989", "Mama Said Knock You Out" (1990", "G.O.A.T." (2000)
#22. AZ
In direct contrast to the sandpaper-edged style of X, we now run across the cat with arguably the best flow in the rap game. Yep, this is AZ, made famous by one of the greatest guest verses of all time (Nas’ Life’s A B For Those Who Hadn’t Figured). With the smoothest, cleanest rapping style around, AZ’s whole style oozes rhythm and pace, but sadly the arc of his career ever since his classic, 5 star 1995 debut album has been a descending one. Seemingly permanently entrenched in his mentor Nas’ shadow; AZ has got talent for days, but too many times I've been left mortified by his misuse of it.
Essential Listening: “Doe or Die” (1995), “Aziatic” (2002)
#21. Ras Kass
In my eyes, Ras Kass is unquestionably the finest lyrical lyricist of the modern rap generation. No other artist – bar Common – can match his sheer ability with words. He has made a career of poetic, vicious rhyming sprees that exude wit, charisma and confidence all at the same time. Soul on Ice, his masterpiece solo album, is the best example of this in rap history… the trouble you might have finding it is tantamount to the flawed genius image of Ras. Controversial with his views on the Government, race and history, as well as someone who has severe scrapes with major labels and the law, Ras is an enigma whose potential has remained largely untapped. What’s been exposed is more than enough to propel him high, high up.
Essential Listening: “Soul on Ice” (1996), "Van Gogh" (2000)
#20. Talib Kweli
Some find it hard to like Talib Kweli, with a voice that at the best of times sounds like a cross between a 10 year old girl and Dru Down on helium, he can be very difficult to start listening to. Cross this line and you’ll find one of the key members of the late 90s Conscious movement, a highly accomplished rapper capable of high level socio-political commentary, thoughtful introspective questioning, and vicious battle capabilities. Kweli has also been involved with two of the best albums to have emerged in recent times, the project “Blackstar” with fellow cohort Mos Def, and the equally classic “Train of Thought”. Add a near-classic solo album Quality and we’re talking about a true pioneer in the New School movement.
Essential Listening: "Mos Def & Talib Kweli are... Blackstar" (1998), "Train of Thought" (2000), "Quality" (2002)
#19. Common
Chicago’s finest Common Sense is the artistic equal to anyone on this list. Two set-in-stone classic albums, Resurrection and “One Day It’ll All Make Sense, exhibited a fluent, eccentric, literate and intelligent man, and on top of that a complex and skilled lyricist able to drop the wittiest, wordplay-filled raps outside of Gza and Ras Kass. Able to specialise in a wide number of areas – battle, consciousness, storytelling, braggadocio, freestyle – to the point where he is better than the specialists in those field, Common is notable not just for dismantling Ice Cube in the infamous “B!tch In Yoo” diss, but tackling serious issues such as abortion and poverty in unconventional ways that few others think of. Some say he fell off with his last, solid, album Electric Circus - but he’s returning to his old, purist roots with his next LP. The only question that remains is how far can he go?
Essential Listening: “Resurrection” (1994), “One Day It’ll All Make Sense” (1997).
#18. MC Ren
Ice Cube, Dr. Dre and Eazy-E got the headlines, but legendary rap group N.W.A had another, more talented emcee in their ranks. Yeah, MC Ren was the most technically gifted in a defining rap group, and while the angriest emcee around never fully capitalised on this initial promise he remained active throughout the 90s releasing a number of dope EPs and poppin up on various prominent Westcoast albums. Ren has real style, true ability, and one of the dopest voices ever… he could have so much been higher.
Essential Listening: “Straight Outta Compton” (1989), “Kizz my Black Azz” (1992).
#17. Mos Def
In a section dominated by New School artists, we come to its leader. Mos Def is one of the most revolutionary artists around – along with the aforementioned Talib Kweli he provided half the impetus for the “Blackstar” project, an album that many rate as a Top 10 rap album ever. What makes Mos special? Intelligence, lyrical fluidity and craft, and just a dope, quirky voice you can’t help warm to. “Black on Both Sides”, his exceptional solo debut, demonstrated all this and more. I mean, who else would write a poignant ode and plea about the lack of water in the Third World? My main beef with Mos is simple; he just doesn’t drop enough. More concerned with his rock band and his acting career, Mos is just not active enough. It’s a damn shame to be honest; but fortunately he’s on his way back with a solo album, coming very soon. Look out for it, I’ implore you.
Essential Listening: “Mos Def and Talib Kweli are… Blackstar” (1998), “Black on Both Sides” (1999)
#16. Canibus
Now we stumble onto THE most naturally gifted rapper on this list. Canibus is every hardcore rap purist’s favourite emcee for a reason, as the gravely voiced, razor-tongued battle specialist has the largest vocabulary in hip hop, a penchant for absolutely killer wordplay, and a stamina that allows him to rhyme for minutes on end. Ever since his infamous beef with LL Cool J and outstanding appearances on tracks by the Lost Boyz and The Firm, Bis has released a number of albums, some good, some disappointing, and has remained staunchly underground. When he makes his masterpiece, expect him to be a strong challenger for the Top 10.
Essential Listening: "2000 B.C." (1999), “Rip the Jacker” (2003).
#15. Big L
The wonder kid of New York hip hop in the mid to late 1990s, it is quite conceivable that if Big L had avoided his untimely death he would have gone on to become one of the greats of the Boom Bap era. A witty, testosterone-charged punchliner who took his mentor Lord Finesse's style and ran with it, the kid was the epitome of 90s B-Boy New York hip hop, and was worshipped because of it. He had great comic timing, but unfortunately a lack of consistent production undermined him. While as talented as anyone on here, the lack of decent production showed on his promising if flawed debut album. Overrated, but still legendary in his own way.
Essential Listening: "Livestylez ov Da Poor & Dangerous" (1995), "The Big Picture" (1999)
#14. Chuck D
I see a lot of lists that simply do not pay due respect to one of its true greats. Now even though I’m not even close to being old enough to have been around when Public Enemy were in town, it is not difficult to appreciate what they did for hip hop. And Chuck D is one of the main reasons why the pioneering, controversial leaders of black power in the 80s terrorised virtually anyone in authority. With the most booming, commanding voice and a delivery that any politician should look at and study, Chuck was the master at imposing himself upon a listener. With his more than willing foil Flava Flav providing the comic relief, and The Bomb Squad’s revolutionary, noisy backgrounds, Chuck directed the group through several classic albums (yeah you read it right, “several”, followed by “classic albums”) and basically provided the backbone for The Greatest Rap Group of All Time. Now tell me he doesn’t deserve his props?
Essential Listening: “It Takes A Nation of Millions To Hold Us Back” (1988), “Fear of a Black Planet” (1990), “Apocalypse 91…the Enemy Strikes Back” (1991)
#13. Guru
It’s one of hip hop’s long debates: does Guru, of outstanding, legendary NY duo Gang Starr, need DJ Premier’s beats to sound good? My answer to that is a resounding no. Sure, when you think of Gang Starr you think of Premier, but when you think of what sums up their mentality, you think Guru. He’s put down some of the most thoughtful rhymes on wax ever; introspective, measured, thoughtful rhyming that makes you stop and think. No, he’s not the most technically gifted, with his “wild monotone style”, but that doesn’t always matter.
Essential Listening: “Moment of Truth” (1998), “Daily Operation” (1992), “Jazmatazz Vol 1” (1993)
#12. Big Daddy Kane
Big Daddy Kane is the father of so many emcees’ styles on this list it’s not even funny. The staunchly old school emcee specialised in battle rhymes and braggadocio– a scything, wordplay and insult-infused style of rap that is the fundamental centre of rap culture – and he was the first to bring it to the masses in a big way. Add the humour, the tongue-in-cheek misogyny, and the confidence and there was formed a remarkable, hugely talented rapper. And his catalogue – while sometimes underwhelming – largely reflected this fact. Long Live the Kane and It’s a Big Daddy Thing demonstrated the flawless, peerless (at the time) technique of Big Daddy. Ok, occasionally he can sound simplistic compared to the highly advanced, futuristic rhyme schemes of the 90s finest, but that goes for virtually any other old school artist on this list.
#11. Big Pun
I don’t really need to search hard to explain why Big Pun’s here. He has a similar quality to Pharoahe Monch, which is when you listen to the now-deceased, larger than life rapper you simply run out of superlatives. Breathtaking, frantic, complex, witty, hilarious… Pun had delivery and flow in abundance, charisma and guile for years, and a canny ability to create stunning songs about anything he wanted. He could also crossover without losing any artistic integrity whatsoever and that’s the rarest of skills, something which propelled him to near-superstar status. Anyone who’s heard his classic album Capital Punishment will know that, to be honest, I am privileged to have heard Pun spit. It’s just a shame his weight problems caused his untimely death.
Essential Listening: “Capital Punishment” (1998), “Yeeeeah Baby” (2000).
#10. Method Man
Is Method Man’s rep as one of hip hop’s forefront rap artists one of the most misleading views ever seen in the culture? I certainly think so. Ever since we witnessed the grimy, witty and charismatic personality of the mushy-mouthed “Mr Meth” during “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” and the solid if overrated “Tical”, it seems like commercial rap’s golden son has only been good for guest spots and Wu albums. Every album since has been disappointing; and his latest was a travesty. So why such high a placement? Well, Meth’s best work is outstanding, and he’s such an accomplished, talented rapper on his day that you can’t help but place him well up with the big guns.
Essential Listening: "Tical" (1994)
#9. Kool G Rap
The master of crime rap throughout the 80s and 90s, the NYC legend packs one of the most fearsome flows in the rap game and has gained a considerable fanbase with it. With a distinctive voice and lisp that belies his intelligent, street-smart philosophising, G Rap first sprung to attention in the mid 1980s with his partner DJ Polo and as a member of the legendary Juice Crew. The various albums that followed – either as a duo or solo – demonstrated all the attributes that made the “Kool Genius of Rap” such a vivid listen. Reality-drenched, pacy storytelling describing in thorough detail the underworld of New York - over dark, sombre production from greats such as Marley Marl, Sir Jinx and Large Professor – this is G-Rap’s formula, and he’s used it time and time again to legendary effect.
Essential Listening: “Road to the Riches” (1989), “Wanted: Dead or Alive” (1990), Ò,5,6” (1995).
#8. Ice Cube
From 1989 to 1993, in my eyes Ice Cube was the greatest emcee on the planet. The onetime N.W.A. front man released a string of three outstanding albums, AmeriKKKa’z Most Wanted and Death Certificate standing out particularly, and with these Cube terrorised virtually anything or anyone holding any authority in the States. Like a more Gangster Chuck D, Cube was vitriolic and incendiary, fighting for black power and against what he saw as a corrupt, racist “Uncle Sam”. But not a simply an angry thug: a highly articulate and intelligent one at that. Using his powerful voice and charismatic delivery the “N!gga Ya Love to Hate” flawlessly demonstrated his fantastic writing capability, creating a number of all-time classic songs that perfectly capture the searing anger and hostility that half of South Central L.A. felt towards White authority. Unfortunately for Cube, after the equally classic 1996 Westside Connection debut Bow Down, the rapper’s move into movies led to a de-emphasis on his rapping career… his rap’s became undeniably watered down and his albums stale. The Ice Cube today is a long way removed from these monumental heights; though his catalogue of work, once-powerful resistance mentality, and sheer influence means he’s never gonna slip far down this list.
Essential Listening: “Amerikkka’z Most Wanted” (1990), “Death Certificate” (1991), “Bow Down” (1996)
#7. Nas
If there is any one figure that represents all the hip hop ideals of the modern Eastcoast, it would probably be the self-proclaimed prophet Nas. And this rep is based more or less solely off Illmatic, the New York City rapper’s groundbreaking debut that rises above the status of classic or masterpiece, being one of the foundations of the hip hop cannon. No other album blends the elements as well as it does… first there’s Nas’ perfect lyricism. Flowing, richly-detailed words, crafted individually and put together perfectly, always with the same level of craft and intelligence… it truly is poetry in motion. Add the holy trinity of East coast production – Premier, Pete Rock and Large Professor – and you have an album that is better than most artists’ careers. A series of solid, good albums followed Illmatic, and we saw large doses of Nas’ talent, but never in the same luminous fashion. In fact, it could be argued that all albums like I Am… achieved was to paint Nas as hip hop’s biggest hypocrite. Regardless, Stillmatic and It Was Written are near-classic efforts, and virtually no other artist in rap history has the same amount of outstanding songs as Nasir Jones.
Essential Listening: “Illmatic” (1994), "It Was Written" (1996), “Stillmatic” (2001)
#6. Jay-Z
The emcee that you either love or hate. It’s undeniable that Jay-Z is a fantastically talented artist: 1995 debut Reasonable Doubt was a wonderful, gritty Mafioso-inspired trip through the “world of a hustler”. It’s also undeniable that Jay is a smart guy and businessman, for he has become one of the most successful rap artists of all time, being able to crossover seemingly at will. Witty, confident wordplay and a fabulously versatile, slippery flow are his trademarks – not forgetting the trademark arrogance, make Jay THE artist of our era.
Essential Listening: “Reasonable Doubt” (1995), “The Blueprint” (2001)
#5. Eminem
We all know about “The Great White Hope” so there’s no need to describe him too much; though shock, controversy and a fair amount of talent Em stormed to critical and commercial acclaim in the late 90s. Backed by production from Dr. Dre, aided by a biting, fantastic talent for witty, satirical rhymes and a creative ability that puts most others to shame, Em’s two acclaimed, if deeply overrated, opening albums gave him massive power. Changing his mentality to that of a thug – no doubt thanks to the influence of 50 Cent, Em has undergone a metamorphosis over the years. The Eminem Show furthermore showcased his talents, the serious-when-needed lyrical warhead, and the ironically witty comedian. While some of you may doubt his position, none of you can doubt his skill or impact.
Essential Listening: “Slim Shady LP” (1999), “Marshall Mathers LP” (2000). "The Emiinem Show" (2002)
#4. 2Pac
We all know about Tupac Shakur… in fact it’s virtually impossible not to know what 2Pac was and what he stood for. A lot of people stereotyped him solely as a gangsta rapper – a very unfair, incorrect assumption basically resulting from one “gangsta” album– but it is undeniable that Pac is one of the great, legendary figures in hip hop history. While not the most technically able rapper on this list – though he was still above average – Pac’s gifts lay elsewhere. A great communicator, able to write strong, passionate songs whose theme usually centred on some form of human struggle, 2Pac captured the hearts of many with his words on excellent albums such as his personal highlight “Me Against the World”. And when his death came about – not an accidental death, I’m sure – he became something of a martyr. For those many hip hop critics out there he probably also demonstrated what was wrong with rap culture – you talked the gangsta talk, you died by its code. As flawed a view as this is, maybe that’s what Pac’s biggest contribution has been. And that’s a tragedy in itself.
Essential Listening: “Me Against the World” (1996), “All Eyez on Me” (1996), "Makaveli" (1996), "Day Theory” (1997)
#3. Notorious B.I.G.
Well, Biggie is one of the most well-rounded artists of all time – proficient in every category of rapping. His deep, distinctive baritone voice, distinctive delivery and versatile flow didn’t disguise the fact he was a superior lyricist, cutting battle rapper and fantastic personality able to create any kind of song about any kind of subject matter. Truly an all-rounder, the overrated part of this description moves in with the fact that he’s often called the G.O.A.T. off a tiny catalogue – two albums – which has probably come around through the fact his life was cut short, tragically. While both Ready to Die and Life After Death were good, solid albums, they fall short of a lot of the genuinely classic material found on this list. I have few doubts that if Big had stayed alive, he would be an undisputed contender for #1.
Essential Listening: “Ready to Die” (1994), “Life After Death” (1997)
#2. KRS-One
“Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everything”. That is the celebrated acronym of KRS-One explained, and it’s basically the philosophy that “The Teacher” has lived his extensive career by. Analysing a figure as complex and far-reaching as KRS is difficult; but it’s perhaps simplest to just say he represents hip hop culture. In fact, he is hip hop culture. As interested in lecturing and teaching about the culture as he is in partaking in it, the strictly anti-violence and anti-commercialist morals of the man have to be applauded. And that’s without mentioning his musical career: in a word, breathtaking. Ever since the launch of his group Boogie Down Productions and the classic Criminal Minded, KRS has had an extensive career spawning at least 10 albums – all with the furiously politically and socially conscious mindset of the veteran emcee.
Credit has to be given to his technical skills – one of the world’s leading freestylers and battle rappers, KRS attacks each and every verse with a relentless, pounding energy and maniacal flow – he’s neither as smooth or as complex as Rakim, but in terms or energy, pace and charisma he certainly makes up for this. Ok, cats say he ain’t relevant anymore… that’s only to the shallow and wack commercial market. KRS-One is #1 in a large number of lists, but this list is concerned in technical ability first and foremost, and Ra just has him beat here. Still, this guy is a monumental, legendary hip hop great.
Essential Listening: "Criminal Minded" (1986), "By Any Means Necessary" (1987"), "Return of the Boom Bap" (1993), "KRS-One" (1995)
#1. Rakim
Effectively, as we finally hit #1, both KRS-One and Rakim are exchangeable figures. Both deserve to be here, but in the end my vote had to go the “God MC”. Through the 80s and 90s, the benchmark of elite emcees was Rakim, it really is that simple. Breaking out with his partner Eric B with a string of successive classic albums – you’ll notice this is a trend of all the Top 10 – Ra strung together elaborate, flowing verses full of internal rhyming, fantastic metaphors and complex wordplay. His style was years advanced of anyone else at the time and essentially influenced each and every rapper who claimed to be the best. If they tried to be complex, they were copying him. And it wasn’t just lyrically; the ridiculously dexterous monotone flow that Ra possessed allowed him to rhyme over any beat.
Never commenting in any particular depth on any complex subjects – unlike a lot of those in this list – or professing himself to be the culture (unlike KRS), Ra just professed himself to be the best emcee. And he was, that’s why when one of rap’s biggest talents ever, Nas, was the hottest thing in hip hop, he was “the next Rakim” not the next KRS or Cube. It is “cool” to say Rakim is wack now, but that crazy talk. Verses he’s dropped on cuts such as Jay-Z’s “The Watcher II” demonstrate he’s still ill… Quite simply Rakim is the most consistent, most influential and best rapper on this list, and he gets #1.
Essential Listening: “Paid in Full” (1987), “Follow the Leader” (1998), “Don’t Sweat the Technique” (1992), “The 18th Letter (1997)
#35. Kurupt
Between 1992 and 2000 this Dogg Pound Gangsta was quite frankly one of the most naturally talented and outstanding talents in rap. Dogg Food and Doggystyle found a Philly-born, L.A.-reppin gangsta slash battle rapper literally ripping up every single verse he touched, and later “Streetz Iz a Mutha” showed a more rounded, capable artist. With a dexterous, pacy flow, venomous rhymes and a freestyle capability that allows him to match up to even the best on this list, Kurupt could have been the next Rakim. It just went wrong somewhere.
Essential Listening: “Dogg Food” (1995), “Tha Streetz Iz a Mutha” (1999)
#34. Xzibit
Xzibit is the best rugged rhymer around; He has a Top 5 voice, searing battle lyrics, yet a fantastically introspective, thoughtful mind that created CLASSIC songs like “Carry the Weight” and “Foundation”. An erstwhile member of the legendary Likwit crew (see Tash), back in the late 90s X was the next underground cat on the verge of blowing up, bigtime. But while a dream affiliation with Dr. Dre helped in some regards - "X" brought X to the Z to the masses like never before in his career - album sales didn't really rocket and he didn't quite explode. Now back with the Likwit fam, let's hope we see another ATSOL.
Essential Listening: “At The Speed Of Life” (1996), Dayz & 40 Nightz” (1998)
#33. O.C.
The man, the myth...Myth? Hrmm.. O.C. is quite possibly the most underrated rapper of all time. Along with Lord Finesse and Big L, O.C.’s skills as an elite emcee pushed the Diggin' in the Crates crew to the forefront of the NYC underground in the early to late 90s. Confident and witty with his braggadacio, but equally adept at switching to introspective, intelligence mindsets, in his prime the Brooklyn rapper released one set-in-stone classic “Word…Life” and a highly impressive follow up. Still active, this cat deserves ridiculously more props than he actually gets, and he's just as good as L..
Essential Listening: “Word…Life” (1994), “Jewelz” (1997)
#32. Pharoah Monch
Listening to a Queens emcee spit is an experience that makes you realise why hip hop is so great. ( Canibus, Aceyalone, Big Pun ) As part of legendary duo Organised Konfusion, the early 90s found the uber-talented Monch obliterating each and every single verse he dropped. The master of breath control, with an out-of-control flow and enchanting delivery, Monch delivers complex, layered lyrics at the speed of light – I have to yet to hear a rap fan criticise him. A series of fine albums with his also-talented partner Prince Po, plus a very good solo effort, meant that the fantastic talent of Monch has largely been exploited, which is very important. How many artists on this list have not had this luxury? While not as active recently, a move to Dr. Dre's Aftermath Entertainment will hopefully see another outstanding solo effort dropping.
Essential Listening: “Organised Konfusion (1991), “Stress: the Extinction Agenda” (1994), “Internal Affairs” (1999)
#31. Gza "The Genius"
The Wu-Tang Clan’s influence on my list should his it's peak here, with their head emcee and lyrical epicentre, Gza. Representing everything that is good about complexity in the art of emceeing, the “Genius” as he is commonly known is undoubtedly the finest exponent of wordplay there is. Quite literally standing out on every single Wu-Tang Clan album there has ever been, the package includes a deceptively skillful flow, a fantastic voice and pin-point, sharp, razor-blade lyrics encompassing obscure metaphors, wonderful double meanings and literary devices the dictionary couldn’t define. His frankly masterpiece solo debut “Liquid Swords” is the second best Wu-Tang solo of all time – quite a compliment – and a number of other solid albums that followed simply backed up that legacy. Unlike the vast majority of this list, at no point in his career has Gza fallen off and he has stayed at the same stratospheric levels of consistency.
Essential Listening: “Liquid Swords” (1995), “Beneath the Surface” (1999)
#30. Lord Finesse
And cracking the Top 30 is LF. Self-proclaimed leader of the Diggin’ in the Crates crew, old school emcee extraordinare Lord Finesse gets few proper props from few heads. Finesse – along with Big Daddy Kane – essentially fathered the witty, punchline-fuelled style that cats like Big L, Chino XL and later Eminem would go on to make a career out of. “Funky Technician” exploded out in 92, a magnificent throwback to the old school, with verse after verse of unrestricted, relentless wordplay and humour crammed rhymes delivered charismatically by Finesse. This fantastic style became a massive hit with the rap crowd, and throughout the 90s the veteran rapper never fell off, eventually moving into production (Finesse’s most famous track to the unenlightened is surely “The Message”, from Dr. Dre's 2001). Finesse has had more impact and influence that your favourite rapper, it’s that simple.
Essential Listening: “Funky Technician” (1992), “The Awakening” (1996)
#29. Inspectah Deck
Inspectah Deck has never been one of the Wu-Tang Clan’s big guns: the limelight has always eluded him. But that suits his style, as the underrated bomb dropper Rebel INS built a reputation as the clan’s best lyricist, bar none. Starring roles on the group’s classic, timeless debut and its follow up Wu-Tang Forever (who can forget his opening verse on the epic “Triumph”?), and a solid solo debut means that Deck has a place in every hardcore hip hop fan’s hearts, forever. A lack of a big, classic solo album hurts him in the overall standings, sadly.
Essential Listening: ”Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” (1993), “Uncontrolled Substance” (1999).
#28. Busta Rhymes
The maddest emcee around, with one of the most distinctive styles on this list, Busta is a far more determined and seasoned industry veteran than his fun loving, manic public exterior suggests. The same goes for his rapping ability, holding his own in accalimed underground battles with the likes of Jay-Z and Eminem. And this has allowed him to hang around the upper epchelons of the rap game for a decade; releasing solid albums, rippin up guest verses, and in general being the Party Clown of the rap world. So why isn't he higher? Well, Busta has this problem, he always sounds the same. Every album is a variation on the same theme as the last - and he's never had a truly outstanding, classic album. Solid artist, but nothing more, sadly.
Essential Listening: "The Coming" (1996), "When Disaster Strikes" (1997)
#27. Snoop Dogg
If this was a list of the most popular or most recognisable rappers around, Snoop would be Top 5. Unfortunately for him, it’s not. His route of entry is mainly through an album called “Doggystyle”: One of rap’s finest albums ever. The Snoop here was a majestic emcee, unfortunately for the vast majority of his career after all we saw was a pale imitation, whose flow disappeared and who seemed to increasingly live off the success of his earlier album. Still, he’s a charismatic, talented (and that’s often forgotten) emcee who can flow better than any other on this list when the moment takes him.
Essential Listening: “The Chronic” (1992), “Doggystyle” (1993)”
#26. Scarface
Quite simply, Scarface is the King of the South. And rightly so, as the veteran gangsta rapper has simply been a beacon of consistency throughout his 20 year career, inspiring and influencing a whole generation of artists. As a member of the infamous, excellent Geto Boys ( The Southern N.W.A.), ‘Face shocked and impressed the nation at the same time with dark, disturbing, crime-ridden tales delivered through his impeccable style: the most idiosyncratic voice in rap and a teary, honest emotional delivery that makes you wanna root for him whatever he’s doing. Going solo Face has been pretty impressive too… and so many big names have worked with him, perhaps to try and capture the hearts and money of his fanbase. Still very relevant in today’s rap scene – check his smash hit My Block from a well-received album The Fix - ‘Face has class and longevity, which bags him a well-deserved spot.
Essential Listening: “The Geto Boys” (1990), “Last of a Dying Breed” (2000), “The Fix” (2002)
#25. Cormega
For many Cormega is, right now, the essential definition of what a “street poet” should be. The former Nas disciple who was once on the peak of fame (and infamy, though he wouldn’t know it at the time) as a member of The Firm, rose from the ashes of a broken career to deliver two near classic albums around the turn of the century. A crisp, slow spitter with a careful delivery and not the best flow in the world, Mega has always relied on poetic, thoughtful rhymes rather than the more natural elements of rapping: maybe that is why he’s so endeared?
Essential Listening: “Tha Realness” (2001), “The True Meaning” (2002)
#24. Jadakiss
The infamous Jason "Jadakiss" Phillips has built a career on the backs of wannabe wise guys unaware of his lyrical dexterity. He has been since early childhood. Word on his witty rhyme prowess began spreading thirteen years ago as a potential-laden twelve-year-old rhyme animal clawing at opponents on the tough turf of Yonkers, NY. Its not that his opponents were lyrically weak in any shape, form or fashion, as they would come to battle equipped with some 16-bar ammo. It's just that the born to kill Jadakiss would extinguish whatever little fumes they'd create with fire lines that averaged 40-bars in length all from the top of his head. Enough said..
Essential Listening: "Kiss Tha Game GoodBye" (2001), "Kiss Of Death" (2004)
#23. LL Cool J
LL Cool J was one of rap’s first genuine transatlantic multi-platinum solo superstars – and to his credit this fact has remained the same throughout his long, distinguished career. Strip away his loverboy persona, the platinum plaques, and the R&B Crossovers, and a lot of people seem to have forgotten that LL is actually a highly talented rapper – his debut albums demonstrated a young and raw B-Boy rapper full of fresh braggadocio and ill rhythms. And young he was, only 17 in 1985 when Radio burst out. Despite the plaques stacking up, LL matured, becoming a seasoned, confident veteran able to take on a whole host of the next generation’s best. And even now, while he’s happy dropping filler-laden commercial albums, he still remains the most relevant old school rapper ever. That’s an achievement in itself. And ok LL did change his sound for the mainstream – but never completely, and it never sounded like his music lost its soul
Essential Listening: "Radio" (1985), "Walking with a Panther" (1989", "Mama Said Knock You Out" (1990", "G.O.A.T." (2000)
#22. AZ
In direct contrast to the sandpaper-edged style of X, we now run across the cat with arguably the best flow in the rap game. Yep, this is AZ, made famous by one of the greatest guest verses of all time (Nas’ Life’s A B For Those Who Hadn’t Figured). With the smoothest, cleanest rapping style around, AZ’s whole style oozes rhythm and pace, but sadly the arc of his career ever since his classic, 5 star 1995 debut album has been a descending one. Seemingly permanently entrenched in his mentor Nas’ shadow; AZ has got talent for days, but too many times I've been left mortified by his misuse of it.
Essential Listening: “Doe or Die” (1995), “Aziatic” (2002)
#21. Ras Kass
In my eyes, Ras Kass is unquestionably the finest lyrical lyricist of the modern rap generation. No other artist – bar Common – can match his sheer ability with words. He has made a career of poetic, vicious rhyming sprees that exude wit, charisma and confidence all at the same time. Soul on Ice, his masterpiece solo album, is the best example of this in rap history… the trouble you might have finding it is tantamount to the flawed genius image of Ras. Controversial with his views on the Government, race and history, as well as someone who has severe scrapes with major labels and the law, Ras is an enigma whose potential has remained largely untapped. What’s been exposed is more than enough to propel him high, high up.
Essential Listening: “Soul on Ice” (1996), "Van Gogh" (2000)
#20. Talib Kweli
Some find it hard to like Talib Kweli, with a voice that at the best of times sounds like a cross between a 10 year old girl and Dru Down on helium, he can be very difficult to start listening to. Cross this line and you’ll find one of the key members of the late 90s Conscious movement, a highly accomplished rapper capable of high level socio-political commentary, thoughtful introspective questioning, and vicious battle capabilities. Kweli has also been involved with two of the best albums to have emerged in recent times, the project “Blackstar” with fellow cohort Mos Def, and the equally classic “Train of Thought”. Add a near-classic solo album Quality and we’re talking about a true pioneer in the New School movement.
Essential Listening: "Mos Def & Talib Kweli are... Blackstar" (1998), "Train of Thought" (2000), "Quality" (2002)
#19. Common
Chicago’s finest Common Sense is the artistic equal to anyone on this list. Two set-in-stone classic albums, Resurrection and “One Day It’ll All Make Sense, exhibited a fluent, eccentric, literate and intelligent man, and on top of that a complex and skilled lyricist able to drop the wittiest, wordplay-filled raps outside of Gza and Ras Kass. Able to specialise in a wide number of areas – battle, consciousness, storytelling, braggadocio, freestyle – to the point where he is better than the specialists in those field, Common is notable not just for dismantling Ice Cube in the infamous “B!tch In Yoo” diss, but tackling serious issues such as abortion and poverty in unconventional ways that few others think of. Some say he fell off with his last, solid, album Electric Circus - but he’s returning to his old, purist roots with his next LP. The only question that remains is how far can he go?
Essential Listening: “Resurrection” (1994), “One Day It’ll All Make Sense” (1997).
#18. MC Ren
Ice Cube, Dr. Dre and Eazy-E got the headlines, but legendary rap group N.W.A had another, more talented emcee in their ranks. Yeah, MC Ren was the most technically gifted in a defining rap group, and while the angriest emcee around never fully capitalised on this initial promise he remained active throughout the 90s releasing a number of dope EPs and poppin up on various prominent Westcoast albums. Ren has real style, true ability, and one of the dopest voices ever… he could have so much been higher.
Essential Listening: “Straight Outta Compton” (1989), “Kizz my Black Azz” (1992).
#17. Mos Def
In a section dominated by New School artists, we come to its leader. Mos Def is one of the most revolutionary artists around – along with the aforementioned Talib Kweli he provided half the impetus for the “Blackstar” project, an album that many rate as a Top 10 rap album ever. What makes Mos special? Intelligence, lyrical fluidity and craft, and just a dope, quirky voice you can’t help warm to. “Black on Both Sides”, his exceptional solo debut, demonstrated all this and more. I mean, who else would write a poignant ode and plea about the lack of water in the Third World? My main beef with Mos is simple; he just doesn’t drop enough. More concerned with his rock band and his acting career, Mos is just not active enough. It’s a damn shame to be honest; but fortunately he’s on his way back with a solo album, coming very soon. Look out for it, I’ implore you.
Essential Listening: “Mos Def and Talib Kweli are… Blackstar” (1998), “Black on Both Sides” (1999)
#16. Canibus
Now we stumble onto THE most naturally gifted rapper on this list. Canibus is every hardcore rap purist’s favourite emcee for a reason, as the gravely voiced, razor-tongued battle specialist has the largest vocabulary in hip hop, a penchant for absolutely killer wordplay, and a stamina that allows him to rhyme for minutes on end. Ever since his infamous beef with LL Cool J and outstanding appearances on tracks by the Lost Boyz and The Firm, Bis has released a number of albums, some good, some disappointing, and has remained staunchly underground. When he makes his masterpiece, expect him to be a strong challenger for the Top 10.
Essential Listening: "2000 B.C." (1999), “Rip the Jacker” (2003).
#15. Big L
The wonder kid of New York hip hop in the mid to late 1990s, it is quite conceivable that if Big L had avoided his untimely death he would have gone on to become one of the greats of the Boom Bap era. A witty, testosterone-charged punchliner who took his mentor Lord Finesse's style and ran with it, the kid was the epitome of 90s B-Boy New York hip hop, and was worshipped because of it. He had great comic timing, but unfortunately a lack of consistent production undermined him. While as talented as anyone on here, the lack of decent production showed on his promising if flawed debut album. Overrated, but still legendary in his own way.
Essential Listening: "Livestylez ov Da Poor & Dangerous" (1995), "The Big Picture" (1999)
#14. Chuck D
I see a lot of lists that simply do not pay due respect to one of its true greats. Now even though I’m not even close to being old enough to have been around when Public Enemy were in town, it is not difficult to appreciate what they did for hip hop. And Chuck D is one of the main reasons why the pioneering, controversial leaders of black power in the 80s terrorised virtually anyone in authority. With the most booming, commanding voice and a delivery that any politician should look at and study, Chuck was the master at imposing himself upon a listener. With his more than willing foil Flava Flav providing the comic relief, and The Bomb Squad’s revolutionary, noisy backgrounds, Chuck directed the group through several classic albums (yeah you read it right, “several”, followed by “classic albums”) and basically provided the backbone for The Greatest Rap Group of All Time. Now tell me he doesn’t deserve his props?
Essential Listening: “It Takes A Nation of Millions To Hold Us Back” (1988), “Fear of a Black Planet” (1990), “Apocalypse 91…the Enemy Strikes Back” (1991)
#13. Guru
It’s one of hip hop’s long debates: does Guru, of outstanding, legendary NY duo Gang Starr, need DJ Premier’s beats to sound good? My answer to that is a resounding no. Sure, when you think of Gang Starr you think of Premier, but when you think of what sums up their mentality, you think Guru. He’s put down some of the most thoughtful rhymes on wax ever; introspective, measured, thoughtful rhyming that makes you stop and think. No, he’s not the most technically gifted, with his “wild monotone style”, but that doesn’t always matter.
Essential Listening: “Moment of Truth” (1998), “Daily Operation” (1992), “Jazmatazz Vol 1” (1993)
#12. Big Daddy Kane
Big Daddy Kane is the father of so many emcees’ styles on this list it’s not even funny. The staunchly old school emcee specialised in battle rhymes and braggadocio– a scything, wordplay and insult-infused style of rap that is the fundamental centre of rap culture – and he was the first to bring it to the masses in a big way. Add the humour, the tongue-in-cheek misogyny, and the confidence and there was formed a remarkable, hugely talented rapper. And his catalogue – while sometimes underwhelming – largely reflected this fact. Long Live the Kane and It’s a Big Daddy Thing demonstrated the flawless, peerless (at the time) technique of Big Daddy. Ok, occasionally he can sound simplistic compared to the highly advanced, futuristic rhyme schemes of the 90s finest, but that goes for virtually any other old school artist on this list.
#11. Big Pun
I don’t really need to search hard to explain why Big Pun’s here. He has a similar quality to Pharoahe Monch, which is when you listen to the now-deceased, larger than life rapper you simply run out of superlatives. Breathtaking, frantic, complex, witty, hilarious… Pun had delivery and flow in abundance, charisma and guile for years, and a canny ability to create stunning songs about anything he wanted. He could also crossover without losing any artistic integrity whatsoever and that’s the rarest of skills, something which propelled him to near-superstar status. Anyone who’s heard his classic album Capital Punishment will know that, to be honest, I am privileged to have heard Pun spit. It’s just a shame his weight problems caused his untimely death.
Essential Listening: “Capital Punishment” (1998), “Yeeeeah Baby” (2000).
#10. Method Man
Is Method Man’s rep as one of hip hop’s forefront rap artists one of the most misleading views ever seen in the culture? I certainly think so. Ever since we witnessed the grimy, witty and charismatic personality of the mushy-mouthed “Mr Meth” during “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” and the solid if overrated “Tical”, it seems like commercial rap’s golden son has only been good for guest spots and Wu albums. Every album since has been disappointing; and his latest was a travesty. So why such high a placement? Well, Meth’s best work is outstanding, and he’s such an accomplished, talented rapper on his day that you can’t help but place him well up with the big guns.
Essential Listening: "Tical" (1994)
#9. Kool G Rap
The master of crime rap throughout the 80s and 90s, the NYC legend packs one of the most fearsome flows in the rap game and has gained a considerable fanbase with it. With a distinctive voice and lisp that belies his intelligent, street-smart philosophising, G Rap first sprung to attention in the mid 1980s with his partner DJ Polo and as a member of the legendary Juice Crew. The various albums that followed – either as a duo or solo – demonstrated all the attributes that made the “Kool Genius of Rap” such a vivid listen. Reality-drenched, pacy storytelling describing in thorough detail the underworld of New York - over dark, sombre production from greats such as Marley Marl, Sir Jinx and Large Professor – this is G-Rap’s formula, and he’s used it time and time again to legendary effect.
Essential Listening: “Road to the Riches” (1989), “Wanted: Dead or Alive” (1990), Ò,5,6” (1995).
#8. Ice Cube
From 1989 to 1993, in my eyes Ice Cube was the greatest emcee on the planet. The onetime N.W.A. front man released a string of three outstanding albums, AmeriKKKa’z Most Wanted and Death Certificate standing out particularly, and with these Cube terrorised virtually anything or anyone holding any authority in the States. Like a more Gangster Chuck D, Cube was vitriolic and incendiary, fighting for black power and against what he saw as a corrupt, racist “Uncle Sam”. But not a simply an angry thug: a highly articulate and intelligent one at that. Using his powerful voice and charismatic delivery the “N!gga Ya Love to Hate” flawlessly demonstrated his fantastic writing capability, creating a number of all-time classic songs that perfectly capture the searing anger and hostility that half of South Central L.A. felt towards White authority. Unfortunately for Cube, after the equally classic 1996 Westside Connection debut Bow Down, the rapper’s move into movies led to a de-emphasis on his rapping career… his rap’s became undeniably watered down and his albums stale. The Ice Cube today is a long way removed from these monumental heights; though his catalogue of work, once-powerful resistance mentality, and sheer influence means he’s never gonna slip far down this list.
Essential Listening: “Amerikkka’z Most Wanted” (1990), “Death Certificate” (1991), “Bow Down” (1996)
#7. Nas
If there is any one figure that represents all the hip hop ideals of the modern Eastcoast, it would probably be the self-proclaimed prophet Nas. And this rep is based more or less solely off Illmatic, the New York City rapper’s groundbreaking debut that rises above the status of classic or masterpiece, being one of the foundations of the hip hop cannon. No other album blends the elements as well as it does… first there’s Nas’ perfect lyricism. Flowing, richly-detailed words, crafted individually and put together perfectly, always with the same level of craft and intelligence… it truly is poetry in motion. Add the holy trinity of East coast production – Premier, Pete Rock and Large Professor – and you have an album that is better than most artists’ careers. A series of solid, good albums followed Illmatic, and we saw large doses of Nas’ talent, but never in the same luminous fashion. In fact, it could be argued that all albums like I Am… achieved was to paint Nas as hip hop’s biggest hypocrite. Regardless, Stillmatic and It Was Written are near-classic efforts, and virtually no other artist in rap history has the same amount of outstanding songs as Nasir Jones.
Essential Listening: “Illmatic” (1994), "It Was Written" (1996), “Stillmatic” (2001)
#6. Jay-Z
The emcee that you either love or hate. It’s undeniable that Jay-Z is a fantastically talented artist: 1995 debut Reasonable Doubt was a wonderful, gritty Mafioso-inspired trip through the “world of a hustler”. It’s also undeniable that Jay is a smart guy and businessman, for he has become one of the most successful rap artists of all time, being able to crossover seemingly at will. Witty, confident wordplay and a fabulously versatile, slippery flow are his trademarks – not forgetting the trademark arrogance, make Jay THE artist of our era.
Essential Listening: “Reasonable Doubt” (1995), “The Blueprint” (2001)
#5. Eminem
We all know about “The Great White Hope” so there’s no need to describe him too much; though shock, controversy and a fair amount of talent Em stormed to critical and commercial acclaim in the late 90s. Backed by production from Dr. Dre, aided by a biting, fantastic talent for witty, satirical rhymes and a creative ability that puts most others to shame, Em’s two acclaimed, if deeply overrated, opening albums gave him massive power. Changing his mentality to that of a thug – no doubt thanks to the influence of 50 Cent, Em has undergone a metamorphosis over the years. The Eminem Show furthermore showcased his talents, the serious-when-needed lyrical warhead, and the ironically witty comedian. While some of you may doubt his position, none of you can doubt his skill or impact.
Essential Listening: “Slim Shady LP” (1999), “Marshall Mathers LP” (2000). "The Emiinem Show" (2002)
#4. 2Pac
We all know about Tupac Shakur… in fact it’s virtually impossible not to know what 2Pac was and what he stood for. A lot of people stereotyped him solely as a gangsta rapper – a very unfair, incorrect assumption basically resulting from one “gangsta” album– but it is undeniable that Pac is one of the great, legendary figures in hip hop history. While not the most technically able rapper on this list – though he was still above average – Pac’s gifts lay elsewhere. A great communicator, able to write strong, passionate songs whose theme usually centred on some form of human struggle, 2Pac captured the hearts of many with his words on excellent albums such as his personal highlight “Me Against the World”. And when his death came about – not an accidental death, I’m sure – he became something of a martyr. For those many hip hop critics out there he probably also demonstrated what was wrong with rap culture – you talked the gangsta talk, you died by its code. As flawed a view as this is, maybe that’s what Pac’s biggest contribution has been. And that’s a tragedy in itself.
Essential Listening: “Me Against the World” (1996), “All Eyez on Me” (1996), "Makaveli" (1996), "Day Theory” (1997)
#3. Notorious B.I.G.
Well, Biggie is one of the most well-rounded artists of all time – proficient in every category of rapping. His deep, distinctive baritone voice, distinctive delivery and versatile flow didn’t disguise the fact he was a superior lyricist, cutting battle rapper and fantastic personality able to create any kind of song about any kind of subject matter. Truly an all-rounder, the overrated part of this description moves in with the fact that he’s often called the G.O.A.T. off a tiny catalogue – two albums – which has probably come around through the fact his life was cut short, tragically. While both Ready to Die and Life After Death were good, solid albums, they fall short of a lot of the genuinely classic material found on this list. I have few doubts that if Big had stayed alive, he would be an undisputed contender for #1.
Essential Listening: “Ready to Die” (1994), “Life After Death” (1997)
#2. KRS-One
“Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everything”. That is the celebrated acronym of KRS-One explained, and it’s basically the philosophy that “The Teacher” has lived his extensive career by. Analysing a figure as complex and far-reaching as KRS is difficult; but it’s perhaps simplest to just say he represents hip hop culture. In fact, he is hip hop culture. As interested in lecturing and teaching about the culture as he is in partaking in it, the strictly anti-violence and anti-commercialist morals of the man have to be applauded. And that’s without mentioning his musical career: in a word, breathtaking. Ever since the launch of his group Boogie Down Productions and the classic Criminal Minded, KRS has had an extensive career spawning at least 10 albums – all with the furiously politically and socially conscious mindset of the veteran emcee.
Credit has to be given to his technical skills – one of the world’s leading freestylers and battle rappers, KRS attacks each and every verse with a relentless, pounding energy and maniacal flow – he’s neither as smooth or as complex as Rakim, but in terms or energy, pace and charisma he certainly makes up for this. Ok, cats say he ain’t relevant anymore… that’s only to the shallow and wack commercial market. KRS-One is #1 in a large number of lists, but this list is concerned in technical ability first and foremost, and Ra just has him beat here. Still, this guy is a monumental, legendary hip hop great.
Essential Listening: "Criminal Minded" (1986), "By Any Means Necessary" (1987"), "Return of the Boom Bap" (1993), "KRS-One" (1995)
#1. Rakim
Effectively, as we finally hit #1, both KRS-One and Rakim are exchangeable figures. Both deserve to be here, but in the end my vote had to go the “God MC”. Through the 80s and 90s, the benchmark of elite emcees was Rakim, it really is that simple. Breaking out with his partner Eric B with a string of successive classic albums – you’ll notice this is a trend of all the Top 10 – Ra strung together elaborate, flowing verses full of internal rhyming, fantastic metaphors and complex wordplay. His style was years advanced of anyone else at the time and essentially influenced each and every rapper who claimed to be the best. If they tried to be complex, they were copying him. And it wasn’t just lyrically; the ridiculously dexterous monotone flow that Ra possessed allowed him to rhyme over any beat.
Never commenting in any particular depth on any complex subjects – unlike a lot of those in this list – or professing himself to be the culture (unlike KRS), Ra just professed himself to be the best emcee. And he was, that’s why when one of rap’s biggest talents ever, Nas, was the hottest thing in hip hop, he was “the next Rakim” not the next KRS or Cube. It is “cool” to say Rakim is wack now, but that crazy talk. Verses he’s dropped on cuts such as Jay-Z’s “The Watcher II” demonstrate he’s still ill… Quite simply Rakim is the most consistent, most influential and best rapper on this list, and he gets #1.
Essential Listening: “Paid in Full” (1987), “Follow the Leader” (1998), “Don’t Sweat the Technique” (1992), “The 18th Letter (1997)