I have decided to do the impossible: select the 5 rappers I believe are the best of all time. (Can you see the sweat pouring down my face?)
5. Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar boasts one of the most impressive catalogs in hip-hop history.
Kendrick Lamar Duckworth is widely acclaimed as one of today’s top-tier rappers. Ironically, his humble beginnings may have played a significant role in shaping his talent.
While many of us became familiar with Kendrick Lamar around 2013, he actually had a few projects before that. Notably, he released Overly Dedicated in 2010 and Section.80 in 2011. However, it was Good Kid, M.A.A.D City that propelled his career to the next level. The album featured undeniable hits like “Swimming Pools” and “B*tch Don’t Kill My Vibe,” with mature storytelling as its foundation.
Since Good Kid, M.A.A.D City, Kendrick has continued to produce hits and deliver fantastic projects. In my opinion, Good Kid, M.A.A.D City is an A, as is To Pimp A Butterfly and DAMN. While I’m not certain if Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers deserves an A, it’s certainly not a C+ album.
Kendrick Lamar’s position as one of the greatest MCs ever is well-deserved. His mastery of storytelling and ability to deliver profound verses set him apart. Moreover, his versatility allows him to effortlessly navigate various styles and themes in his music. With a near-flawless catalog, Kendrick has consistently raised the bar for excellence in hip-hop.
Our Favorite Kendrick Lamar Track: “Humble”
Our Favorite Kendrick Lamar Album: Good Kid, Maad City
4. Nas
Nas’s resume has everything you would want out of your favorite rapper.
Nas’ impressive resume speaks volumes about his impact and longevity in the music industry. Consider Illmatic, hailed as one of the greatest albums of all time, or his iconic “Ether,” widely regarded as one of the greatest diss tracks ever recorded. Add to that his multiple Grammy wins and collaborations with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Jay-Z, Drake, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, Tupac, and Biggie, and you’ve got an artist with an undeniable legacy.
But what truly solidifies Nas’ place on this list is his remarkable output in the 2020s. His King’s Disease and Magic projects showcased his enduring creativity and relevance. Not content to rest on his laurels, Nas continued to push boundaries and bridge generational divides by collaborating with emerging artists like Hit-Boy, Big Sean, and A$AP Rocky. This late-career resurgence not only reaffirmed Nas’ status as a hip-hop legend but also demonstrated his ability to evolve with the times.
So, what makes Nas great? His mastery of storytelling, unparalleled lyricism, incisive social commentary, and remarkable versatility all contribute to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Favorite Nas Track: “I Can”
Favorite Nas Album: Illmatic
3. The Notorious B.I.G.
I do not think Biggie has a single miss on his catalog.
The Notorious B.I.G. is often hailed as the greatest rapper of all time, and for good reason. Pound for pound, his impact on the hip-hop world is unmatched. Since bursting onto the scene in 1992, he consistently delivered memorable tracks with unforgettable quotes, intricate storylines, and impeccable flows.
For many fans, including myself, Biggie’s artistry truly shone through on his debut album, Ready to Die. Listening to the album in its entirety, I was captivated by his vivid lyrics, unapologetic exploration of themes like death and sexuality, and his unparalleled confidence. He embodied the epitome of confidence needed to thrive in the competitive world of hip-hop and helped shape an era of rap that continues to influence the genre today.
What set The Notorious B.I.G. apart was his lyrical genius, unparalleled wordplay, and undeniable confidence. His ability to connect with listeners on a deeply relatable level was a testament to his authenticity. Additionally, he was blessed with exceptional production, thanks in part to the visionary work of crazy-ass Diddy and friends.
While Biggie’s catalog may not be as extensive as some other artists’, his impact on the hip-hop landscape is undeniable. Had he been given more time, there’s no telling how much higher he could have soared. In the end, The Notorious B.I.G. remains a towering figure in hip-hop history, revered for his unparalleled talent and lasting legacy.
Favorite Notorious B.I.G. Track: “Juicy”
Favorite Notorious B.I.G. Album: Ready To Die
2. Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne’s work ethic is why he is high on this list.
Lil Wayne’s declaration of being the “best rapper alive” initially seemed audacious, but nearly two decades later, it’s evident that he was onto something. While his Tha Carter series stands out as exceptional, his true impact lies in the mixtape realm. From roughly 2005 to 2011, the New Orleans rapper was unstoppable, dropping high-caliber verses that showcased his dominance through extravagant punchlines, daring lyrics, and bold experimentation with rap styles. Wayne’s prowess during this period spawned numerous imitators and solidified his status as a trendsetter in the industry.
One aspect often overlooked is Wayne’s role in elevating the careers of other notable rappers. While he didn’t discover talents like Drake and Nicki Minaj, he played a pivotal role in catapulting their careers to new heights. Additionally, his influence extended to artists like Tyga, 2 Chainz, and more, providing them with significant boosts in their respective journeys. No one else on this list molded bigger stars than Wayne did.
In essence, Lil Wayne’s greatness stems from his lofty punchlines, unparalleled versatility, profound impact on hip-hop culture, relentless work ethic, and far-reaching influence. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the genre, shaping the landscape of modern rap and inspiring countless artists to follow in his footsteps.
Favorite Lil Wayne Track: “A Milli”
Favorite Lil Wayne Album: Tha Carter III
1. Jay-Z
Jay-Z has a little bit of everyone from this lists strong suits.
Do you know what I’m learning? Jay-Z is not everyone’s cup of tea. Some people admire what he has brought to the game, while others, particularly in the South, think he’s a little overrated. I see both sides. However, for me, Jay-Z has done too many great things to overlook.
What made Jay-Z great early on? He did everything all your favorite rappers were doing—only better. When Mase and Bad Boy were rapping about flossing, Jay-Z was doing it better. When rappers focused on hit records, Jay-Z created better versions of them. Jay did a great job of being both the student and the teacher early on.
Once Jay-Z hit his prime, he was practically unstoppable. He began creating damn-near flawless bodies of work, started educating us on how to boss up, and eventually became someone all aspiring rappers should look up to. Since about 2010, it has become an honor to have Jay-Z feature on your track; I don’t think any other rapper carries that level of prominence right now.
So, what made Jay-Z so great? He has always been a lyrical savant, capable of crafting verses with strong meanings, clever wordplay, and intricate schemes. He was also the ultimate businessman rapper and was extremely consistent. Oh yeah, and he has a bunch of Grammys on his resume.
Favorite Jay-Z Track: “Hard Knock Life”
Favorite Jay-Z Album: The BluePrint
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
