Where the hell is Wilt Chamberlain on this list?
In a bold new ranking, Complex has released its list of the Top 10 Most Innovative Rappers Right Now, spotlighting artists pushing sonic boundaries and redefining what it means to be a rapper in 2025. This isn’t just about chart-toppers — it’s about boundary-pushers, genre-benders, and visionaries who are shaping the future of hip-hop in real time. Do you have chills yet?
Topping the list is Travis Scott, whose larger-than-life productions and immersive artistic worlds continue to set the standard for creative innovation in the rap genre. Not far behind is Playboi Carti, the perplexing performer whose punk-rap persona and cult-like fanbase have helped shape an entire subculture. Doechii and Doja Cat represent the women on the list, both bringing fearless experimentation and genre fluidity to the table. Meanwhile, artists like Yeat, Baby Keem, and Lil Yachty are carving out entirely new lanes with glitchy beats, left-field visuals, and flows that defy tradition. Underground sensations skaiwater, LAZER DIM 700, and PlaqueBoyMax round out the list, each earning recognition for their futuristic sounds and anti-mainstream approach.
My dad would think I need an exorcism if I brought up these names to him. PlaqueBoyMax’s alone sounds like some demonic s**t.
The Top 10 MOST Innovative Rappers Today, according to Complex ?
— NFR Podcast (@nfr_podcast) July 4, 2025
1. Travis Scott
2. Playboi Carti
3. Doechii
4. Yeat
5. Baby Keem
6. Doja Cat
7. skaiwater
8. LAZER DIM 700
9. Lil Yachty
10. PlaqueBoyMax
Thoughts? ? pic.twitter.com/Z59z3bQYxd
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
