We rank the top 5 current rappers from LA.
5. ScHoolBoy Q
ScHoolBoy Q’s resume is undeniable.
This was a veryyyyy hard one for me. I could’ve easily put Ab-Soul in this spot, but I feel like he doesn’t release enough music. While ScHoolboy Q doesn’t release a ton of music either, his BLUE LIPS release is pretty recent, and it’s damn good. I also feel like ScHoolboy is sneaky-good at dropping bangers, such as “Collard Greens,” “Studio” and “THat Part.”
Favorite Album: “BLUE LIPS”
Favorite Track: “Studio”
4. YG
Out of all the rappers on this list, YG sounds the LA-iest.
YG’s longevity in the music industry is impressive, spanning over a decade since his breakout hit “My N*gga.” During this time, he’s solidified his status with what many consider classic albums like My Krazy Life and Still Brazy. YG is known for delivering big-time club hits such as “Go Loko,” “Who Do You Love?,” and “BIG BANK,” as well as memorable collaborations like “La La Land” with Bryce Vine and “Slide” with H.E.R. While some may not label him the greatest rapper ever, he excels at energizing audiences and infusing gang-related themes with authenticity and relatability.
Best Album: “My Krazy Life”
Best Track: “My N***a”
3. Vince Staples
Vince Staples would easily win the top spot on this list of funniest rappers from LA.
Vince Staples belongs on this list for one simple reason: He consistently delivers excellent albums. Ramona Park Broke My Heart, Dark Times, his self-titled project, and Big Fish Theory are all stellar. While Vince may not always focus on amazing melodies or flashy rap flows, his strength lies in storytelling. Tracks like “WHEN SPARKS FLYS” and “JUSTIN” are riveting and filled with twists and turns. Vince also excels at harmonizing all elements of a song, creating tracks that feel like complete, immersive experiences. I really appreciate Vince’s music.
Best Album: “Dark Times”
Best Track: “WHEN SPARKS FLY”
2. Tyler, The Creator
Tyler, The Creator’s rise to the top was very unorthodox.
I think it’s very impressive that Tyler, The Creator—someone who might be the biggest troll in the hip-hop game—is number two on this list. But if you think about it, he clearly is that good. He’s won a couple of Grammys, both for Best Rap Album in their respective years, is averaging an insane amount of streams on Spotify, and singlehandedly brought back the Mixtape era with his Call Me If You Get Lost album. Though I love it when Tyler is able to be as creative as he could, messing with R&B vibes and all, as he did on “EARFQUAKE,” don’t you dare sleep on how good of a rapper he is. His voice sounds unique as hell, I love how effortlessly he lays down his punchlines, and his unpredictable subject-matters always keep you on your toes.
Best Album: CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST
Best Track: EARFQUAKE
1. Kendrick Lamar
There’s a reason people call him King Kendrick, y’all.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Kendrick Lamar’s catalog is borderline flawless. You can debate whether Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers is a great album, but the rest are certified, undeniable classics. I’m talking To Pimp A Butterfly, Good Kid, M.A.A.D City, and DAMN. Beyond his impressive catalog, Kendrick consistently rises to the competitive challenge in hip-hop, delivers positive lyrics that uplift the Black community, and is a Boogeyman you don’t want to beef with. He has the complete package, and that’s why he’s clearly number one on this list.
Favorite Album: “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City”
Favorite Track: “HUMBLE”
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
