Rhythms of Influence: Ranking the Top 100 Hip-Hop Artists Who Shaped the Genre

Hip-hop is not just a genre; it’s a culture that has evolved over decades, influencing fashion, language, and politics. The artists within this genre have carved their names into history, creating a ripple effect that continues to reverberate in modern music. In this extensive ranking, we delve into the top 100 hip-hop artists who have significantly shaped the genre. From lyrical innovations to beat creativity, each of these artists has contributed uniquely and substantially to hip-hop.

1. Tupac Shakur (2Pac)

Key Albums: All Eyez on Me, Me Against the World

Key Songs: "Changes", "California Love"

Influence: The poet’s lyrical intensity and raw storytelling changed the way rap artists approached social issues.

Listen to Tupac on Spotify.

2. The Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls)

The Notorious B.I.G.

Key Albums: Ready to Die, Life After Death

Key Songs: "Juicy", "Big Poppa"

Influence: Biggie’s unique flow and easygoing delivery brought a new style to East Coast rap.

Explore Biggie’s tracks on Apple Music.

3. Jay-Z

Key Albums: The Blueprint, Reasonable Doubt

Key Songs: "99 Problems", "Empire State of Mind"

Influence: Jay-Z is not only a pioneer of lyrical complexity but also a businessman, illustrating how hip-hop can transcend music.

Watch Jay-Z’s performances on YouTube.

4. Nas

Nas

Key Albums: Illmatic, Stillmatic

Key Songs: "N.Y. State of Mind", "One Mic"

Influence: Nas is known for his intricate lyrics and is often referred to as one of the greatest lyrical rappers of all time. His debut album set a benchmark for storytelling in hip-hop.

Check out Nas’ greatest hits on SoundCloud.

5. Eminem

Key Albums: The Slim Shady LP, The Marshall Mathers LP

Key Songs: "Lose Yourself", "Stan"

Influence: Eminem broke barriers for white artists in hip-hop, while also pushing the boundaries of lyricism, often including dark storytelling.

Listen to Eminem’s best tracks on Tidal.

6. Kendrick Lamar

Key Albums: To Pimp a Butterfly, DAMN.

Key Songs: "Alright", "HUMBLE."

Influence: Kendrick’s thoughtful lyrics and intricate storytelling have placed him at the forefront of modern hip-hop.

Check Kendrick Lamar’s music on Deezer.

7. Dr. Dre

Key Albums: The Chronic, 2001

Key Songs: "Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang", "Still D.R.E."

Influence: As a producer and rapper, Dr. Dre introduced G-Funk, a style that shaped West Coast hip-hop, and helped launch the careers of numerous artists.

Explore Dr. Dre on YouTube.

8. Snoop Dogg

Key Albums: Doggystyle, Tha Doggfather

Key Songs: "Gin and Juice", "Drop It Like It’s Hot"

Influence: Snoop’s laid-back flow and charisma helped popularize gangster rap, while his persona made him a cultural icon.

Check out Snoop’s music on Spotify.

9. Lil Wayne

Key Albums: Tha Carter III, I Am Not a Human Being

Key Songs: "Lollipop", "A Milli"

Influence: Wayne’s unique style and prolific output have made him a key figure in the evolution of Southern hip-hop and mainstream rap.

Listen to Lil Wayne’s tracks on SoundCloud.

10. OutKast

Key Albums: Aquemini, Speakerboxxx/The Love Below

Key Songs: "Hey Ya!", "Ms. Jackson"

Influence: As a duo, André 3000 and Big Boi broke genre barriers, incorporating various styles and cultures into their music.

Feel the magic of OutKast on Apple Music.

11. 50 Cent

Key Albums: Get Rich or Die Tryin’, The Massacre

Key Songs: "In Da Club", "21 Questions"

Influence: 50 Cent’s gritty persona and entrepreneurial spirit revolutionized branding in hip-hop.

Discover 50 Cent on Tidal.

12. DMX

Key Albums: It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot, Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood

Key Songs: "Ruff Ryders’ Anthem", "Party Up (Up In Here)"

Influence: DMX was known for his raw energy and emotional openness, bringing a unique grit to hip-hop.

Enjoy DMX’s catalog on YouTube.

13. A Tribe Called Quest

Key Albums: Midnight Marauders, The Low End Theory

Key Songs: "Can I Kick It?", "Electric Relaxation"

Influence: They are credited with bringing jazz elements into hip-hop, influencing countless artists and the genre’s experimental side.

Participate in the nostalgia on Spotify.

14. Lil Nas X

Key Albums: Montero

Key Songs: "Old Town Road", "Montero (Call Me By Your Name)"

Influence: Lil Nas X broke through cultural boundaries, merging country with hip-hop and significantly impacting genre classification.

Check out Lil Nas X on Deezer.

15. Missy Elliott

Key Albums: Supa Dupa Fly, Under Construction

Key Songs: "Get Ur Freak On", "Work It"

Influence: Missy’s creative visuals and innovative sound have placed her at the forefront of female hip-hop artists.

Explore Missy’s tracks on Apple Music.

16. J. Cole

Key Albums: 2014 Forest Hills Drive, KOD

Key Songs: "Middle Child", "No Role Modelz"

Influence: J. Cole reinvigorated the art of storytelling in the genre, often discussing personal and societal issues.

Listen to J. Cole on SoundCloud.

17. Run-D.M.C.

Key Albums: Run-D.M.C., Raising Hell

Key Songs: "Walk This Way", "It’s Like That"

Influence: As pioneers of the genre, Run-D.M.C. introduced rap to mainstream audiences and brought hip-hop to MTV.

Check their music on YouTube.

18. Chance The Rapper

Key Albums: Coloring Book, Acid Rap

Key Songs: "No Problem", "Same Drugs"

Influence: Chance has integrated elements of gospel into his music, showcasing hip-hop’s versatility and depth.

Explore Chance’s tracks on Spotify.

19. Kid Cudi

Key Albums: Man on the Moon: The End of Day, Passion, Pain & Demon Slayin’

Key Songs: "Day ‘n’ Nite", "Pursuit of Happiness"

Influence: Kid Cudi’s exploration of mental health and existentialism has opened discussions in the hip-hop community.

Discover Kid Cudi’s work on Apple Music.

20. Nelly

Key Albums: Country Grammar, Nellyville

Key Songs: "Hot in Herre", "Dilemma"

Influence: Nelly is credited with popularizing the country rap genre and remains a relevant figure in contemporary music.

Check out Nelly’s tracks on Tidal.

21. Travis Scott

Travis Scott

Key Albums: Astroworld, Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight

Key Songs: "Sicko Mode", "Goosebumps"

Influence: Travis Scott’s innovative sound and use of auto-tune have influenced a new generation of artists.

Explore Travis’s work on Spotify.

22. Ice Cube

Key Albums: AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted, Death Certificate

Key Songs: "It Was a Good Day", "Check Yo Self"

Influence: Ice Cube’s lyrics highlight social issues and realities in America, establishing him as a profound voice in hip-hop.

Listen to Ice Cube’s classics on YouTube.

23. Lauryn Hill

Key Albums: The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

Key Songs: "Doo Wop (That Thing)", "Ex-Factor"

Influence: Lauryn Hill melded soul and hip-hop, creating an influential sound that resonates with both genres.

Discover Lauryn Hill’s music on Apple Music.

24. Migos

Key Albums: Culture, CULTURE II

Key Songs: "Bad and Boujee", "Walk It Talk It"

Influence: Migos popularized the “triplet flow” and have had a significant impact on hip-hop’s mainstream sound.

Check out Migos’ tracks on Spotify.

25. Lauryn Hill

Key Albums: The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

Key Songs: "Doo Wop (That Thing)", "Ex-Factor"

Influence: Lauryn Hill melded soul and hip-hop, creating an influential sound that resonates with both genres.

Discover Lauryn Hill’s music on Apple Music.

26. Busta Rhymes

Key Albums: The Coming, When Disaster Strikes

Key Songs: "Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check", "Pass the Courvoisier"

Influence: Busta’s high-energy performance style and complex lyricism have earned him a lasting reputation in hip-hop.

Listen to Busta Rhymes on Spotify.

27. Patti LaBelle

Key Albums: Burnin’, Winner in You

Key Songs: "Lady Marmalade", "New Attitude"

Influence: While primarily an R&B artist, LaBelle’s collaborations and influence have crossed into hip-hop, especially within the Neo-soul genre.

Check out Patti’s music on Apple Music.

28. 21 Savage

Key Albums: Issa Album, I Am > I Was

Key Songs: "Bank Account", "A Lot"

Influence: Known for his stark lyrics and storytelling, 21 Savage showcases life in Atlanta through his music.

Check out 21 Savage on SoundCloud.

29. The Game

Key Albums: The Documentary, Doctor’s Advocate

Key Songs: "Hate It or Love It", "How We Do"

Influence: The Game played a key role in the resurgence of West Coast hip-hop in the 2000s, fusing gangsta rap with mainstream appeal.

Explore The Game’s work on YouTube.

30. Nicki Minaj

Key Albums: Pink Friday, The Pinkprint

Key Songs: "Super Bass", "Anaconda"

Influence: Nicki’s vibrant persona and versatile flow have made her one of the most powerful female figures in hip-hop.

Listen to Nicki on Apple Music.

31. Post Malone

Key Albums: Stoney, Beerbongs & Bentleys

Key Songs: "Rockstar", "Congratulations"

Influence: Post Malone blurred genre lines, fusing elements of hip-hop with rock and pop, leading to groundbreaking collaborations.

Explore Post’s tracks on Spotify.

32. Fat Joe

Key Albums: Jealous Ones Still Envy, All or Nothing

Key Songs: "Lean Back", "What’s Luv?"

Influence: As a veteran in the industry, Fat Joe has contributed significantly to hip-hop while embracing new artists.

Check out Fat Joe’s music on Apple Music.

33. Tyler, The Creator

Key Albums: Flower Boy, Igor

Key Songs: "See You Again", "IFHY"

Influence: Tyler’s unique creativity and challenge to hip-hop norms have generated discussions surrounding artistry and authenticity.

Listen to Tyler on YouTube.

34. Future

Key Albums: DS2, Future

Key Songs: "Mask Off", "Jumpman"

Influence: Future’s melodic flow has ushered in a new trap sound, influencing countless aspiring artists.

Check out Future on Spotify.

35. Rihanna

Key Albums: Good Girl Gone Bad, Anti

Key Songs: "Umbrella", "Work"

Influence: Although primarily an R&B artist, Rihanna’s collaborations and influence within hip-hop make her a notable figure in the genre.

Listen to Rihanna on Tidal.

36. A$AP Rocky

Key Albums: Long.Live.A$AP, Testing

Key Songs: "F**kin’ Problems", "Praise the Lord (Da Shine)"

Influence: A$AP Rocky’s fashion sense and music intertwined with art has positioned him as an icon in hip-hop.

Explore A$AP Rocky’s work on SoundCloud.

37. Lupe Fiasco

Key Albums: Food & Liquor, The Cool

Key Songs: "Kick, Push", "Dumb It Down"

Influence: Lupe’s focus on conscious rap has introduced essential discussions about social justice and inequality in hip-hop.

Check out Lupe on Apple Music.

38. JAY-REL

Key Albums: The Life of JAY-REL, Poetic Justice

Key Songs: "A Long Way", "Know Yourself"

Influence: JAY-REL’s dynamic storytelling has deeply impacted underground rap, connecting with audiences on a personal level.

Explore JAY-REL’s music on Spotify.

39. Chief Keef

Key Albums: Finally Rich, Bang 3

Key Songs: "I Don’t Like", "Love Sosa"

Influence: Chief Keef’s innovative style has influenced the Chicago drill scene, shaping the genre’s contemporary landscape.

Listen to Chief Keef on YouTube.

40. Rae Sremmurd

Key Albums: SremmLife, SremmLife 2

Key Songs: "Black Beatles", "No Type"

Influence: Rae Sremmurd’s playful beats and catchy hooks have defined a new age of hip-hop party anthems.

Explore Rae Sremmurd on Spotify.

41. Missy Elliott

Key Albums: Supa Dupa Fly, Under Construction

Key Songs: "Get Ur Freak On", "Work It"

Influence: Missy’s innovative visuals and unique sound helped pave the way for female artists in the genre.

Stream Missy Elliott on Apple Music.

42. G-Eazy

Key Albums: When It’s Dark Out, These Things Happen

Key Songs: "Me, Myself & I", "No Limit"

Influence: G-Eazy’s crossover appeal and relatable lyrics resonate with a younger audience.

Check out G-Eazy’s music on Tidal.

43. JAY-Z

Key Albums: The Blueprint, 4:44

Key Songs: "Empire State of Mind", "Numb/Encore"

Influence: JAY-Z’s business acumen has shown how hip-hop can evolve into a lucrative industry.

Listen to JAY-Z on Spotify.

44. Big Sean

Key Albums: Finally Famous, Dark Sky Paradise

Key Songs: "I Don’t F**k with You", "Bounce Back"

Influence: Big Sean’s introspective lyrics and catchy hooks have contributed significantly to modern hip-hop.

Check out Big Sean’s work on Spotify.

45. 2 Chainz

Key Albums: Based on a T.R.U. Story, Pretty Girls Like Trap Music

Key Songs: "Duffle Bag Boy", "I’m Different"

Influence: 2 Chainz is known for his clever wordplay and charismatic style, making him a favorite in contemporary hip-hop.

Check out 2 Chainz on YouTube.

46. Wale

Key Albums: Attention Deficit, The Gifted

Key Songs: "Lotus Flower Bomb", "Black Girl Magic"

Influence: Wale combines poetic lyricism with social commentary, creating impactful hip-hop.

Explore Wale’s work on Spotify.

47. Nipsey Hussle

Key Albums: Victory Lap, Crenshaw

Key Songs: "Hussle & Motivate", "Racks in the Middle"

Influence: Nipsey’s dedication to community empowerment and self-made success resonated deeply with fans.

Discover Nipsey’s work on Apple Music.

48. Mac Miller

Key Albums: Swimming, Good AM

Key Songs: "Dang!", "Self Care"

Influence: Mac’s evolution as an artist showed vulnerability in hip-hop, influencing many listeners and artists alike.

Check out Mac Miller on Tidal.

49. Benny Blanco

Key Albums: Friends, The Book of Benny Blanco

Key Songs: "Eastside", "I Can’t Get Enough"

Influence: A behind-the-scenes powerhouse, Benny Blanco produced for numerous hip-hop talents, further pushing the genre.

Listen to Benny on SoundCloud.

50. Ski Mask the Slump God

Key Albums: YouWillRegret, Stokeley

Key Songs: "Catch Me Outside", "Nuketown"

Influence: His playful and often unpredictable style has carved out a niche in modern hip-hop.

Check out Ski’s work on YouTube.

51. EarthGang

Key Albums: Mirrorland, Ghetto Gods

Key Songs: "Top Down", "Stuck"

Influence: Their eclectic style and genre-blending music have earned them recognition within the hip-hop community.

Explore EarthGang on Spotify.

52. Gunna

Key Albums: Drip or Drown 2, Wunna

Key Songs: "Lemonade", "Dollars on My Head"

Influence: Gunna’s signature flow and melodic style have made him one of the leading figures in the new wave of hip-hop.

Check out Gunna’s music on YouTube.

53. A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie

Key Albums: Artist, Hoodie SZN

Key Songs: "Drowning", "Look Back at It"

Influence: A Boogie’s fusion of rap and R&B has resulted in numerous hits that are relatable to his audience.

Explore A Boogie’s tracks on Spotify.

54. Lil Uzi Vert

Key Albums: Luv Is Rage 2, Eternal Atake

Key Songs: "XO TOUR Llif3", "Futsal Shuffle 2020"

Influence: Uzi’s unique visuals and fusion of emo influences with hip-hop styles have garnered him immense popularity.

Check out Lil Uzi on Tidal.

55. Kash Doll

Key Albums: Stacked

Key Songs: "Ice Me Out", "For Everybody"

Influence: Kash Doll’s powerful attitude and lyrical prowess showcase the rise of female empowerment in hip-hop.

Explore Kash Doll’s music on Spotify.

56. Joey Bada$$

Key Albums: B4.DA.$$, All-Amerikkkan Bada$$

Key Songs: "Paper Trail$","Devastated"

Influence: Joey’s conscious lyrics and throwback styles have earned him a loyal fan base, bridging the gap between old-school and new-school rappers.

Listen to Joey Bada$$ on Apple Music.

57. Lil Keed

Key Albums: Long Live Mexico

Key Songs: "Snake", "Nameless"

Influence: Lil Keed’s melodic styles have become a defining characteristic of the Atlanta rap scene.

Discover Lil Keed’s work on YouTube.

58. Bhad Bhabie

Key Albums: 15, Allegedly

Key Songs: "Gucci Flip Flops", "Hi Bich"

Influence: Bhad Bhabie’s journey from internet sensation to successful rapper demonstrates the changing landscape of how artists emerge in hip-hop.

Check out Bhad Bhabie’s work on Tidal.

59. Denzel Curry

Key Albums: TA13OO, ZUU

Key Songs: "Ultimate", "CLOUT COBAIN"

Influence: Denzel’s lyrical depth and genre-shifting sound have made him a pillar in the underground hip-hop scene.

Listen to Denzel Curry on Spotify.

60. A Tribe Called Quest

Key Albums: People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm, The Low End Theory

Key Songs: "Check the Rhime", "Scenario"

Influence: Their incorporation of jazz and social commentary into hip-hop has left a lasting legacy on the genre.

Check out their music on YouTube.

61. SZA

Key Albums: Ctrl

Key Songs: "Good Days", "Drew Barrymore"

Influence: Known for her unique blend of hip-hop and R&B elements, SZA has become one of the leading voices in contemporary music.

Discover SZA on Spotify.

62. Trina

Key Albums: Da Baddest Bitch, Diamond Princess

Key Songs: "Pull Over", "Here We Go"

Influence: Trina has paved the way for female rappers in a male-dominated industry, showcasing strength and confidence in her lyrics.

Check out Trina’s work on Apple Music.

63. YBN Nahmir

Key Albums: YBN: The Album

Key Songs: "Rubbin Off the Paint", "Bounce Out With That"

Influence: YBN Nahmir emerged as a voice of the new generation, reflecting the tastes and trends of today’s youth.

Listen to YBN Nahmir on Spotify.

64. Tory Lanez

Key Albums: I Told You, Chixtape 5

Key Songs: "Say It", "Luv"

Influence: Tory blends rap and R&B, pushing musical boundaries and engaging a diverse fan base.

Discover Tory’s music on SoundCloud.

65. Freddie Gibbs

Key Albums: Pinata, Bandana

Key Songs: "Crime Pays", "Sky Of The Limit"

Influence: Freddie’s intricate bars and production choices have made him a favorite for hip-hop purists.

Check out Freddie Gibbs on Spotify.

66. B.O.B.

Key Albums: B.o.B Presents: The Adventures of Bobby Ray, Strange Clouds

Key Songs: "Nothin’ on You", "Airplanes"

Influence: B.O.B.’s genre-crossing style and strong hooks have established him as a key player in pop-rap.

Listen to B.O.B. on Apple Music.

67. A$AP Ferg

Key Albums: Trap Lord, Still Striving

Key Songs: "Shabba", "New Level"

Influence: A$AP Ferg’s gritty energy and unique flare contribute to the A$AP Mob’s legacy.

Check out A$AP Ferg on Spotify.

68. NLE Choppa

Key Albums: Top Shotta

Key Songs: "Shotta Flow", "Camelot"

Influence: NLE’s fast-paced flow and relatable lyrics resonate with younger listeners navigating similar experiences.

Discover NLE Choppa’s tracks on YouTube.

69. 6ix9ine

Key Albums: Day69, Dummy Boy

Key Songs: "GUMMO", "TROLLZ"

Influence: Despite controversies, 6ix9ine’s distinct style and provocative persona have kept him in the spotlight.

Check out 6ix9ine on Spotify.

70. Ski Mask the Slump God

Key Albums: YouWillRegret, Stokeley

Key Songs: "Catch Me Outside", "Nuketown"

Influence: Ski Mask’s playful yet intricate lyricism brings a unique flair to modern hip-hop and engages a wide range of fans.

Listen to him on YouTube.

71. YK Osiris

Key Albums: The Golden Child

Key Songs: "Worth It", "Valentine"

Influence: YK Osiris blends rap with a fresh R&B sound, emerging as a talented force in today’s music landscape.

Check out YK Osiris on Spotify.

72. Lil Tjay

Key Albums: True 2 Myself

Key Songs: "Brothers", "F.N"

Influence: Lil Tjay has quickly garnered attention for his melodic style, resonating with fans through heartfelt lyrics.

Explore Lil Tjay’s work on YouTube.

73. Ski Mask the Slump God

Key Albums: YouWillRegret, Stokeley

Key Songs: "Catch Me Outside", "Nuketown"

Influence: Known for his energetic performances and catchy hooks, Ski Mask Slump God has made a significant impact on the SoundCloud rap scene.

Listen to Ski Mask on Apple Music.

74. Demi Lovato

Key Albums: Don’t Forget, Confident

Key Songs: "Sorry Not Sorry", "Heart Attack"

Influence: While primarily known as a pop artist, Demi’s collaborations with hip-hop artists showcase the genre’s versatility.

Discover Demi on Spotify.

75. Big K.R.I.T.

Key Albums: Live from the Underground, 4eva Is a Mighty Long Time

Key Songs: "Country Sh*t", "Money On The Table"

Influence: Big K.R.I.T. is known for community-themed storytelling, representing Southern hip-hop’s essence.

Listen to Big K.R.I.T. on Apple Music.

76. Noname

Key Albums: Telefone, Room 25

Key Songs: "Diddy Bop", "Blaxploitation"

Influence: Noname’s unique blend of poetry and hip-hop brings an intellectual depth to the genre.

Check her music on SoundCloud.

77. Max B

Key Albums: Coke Wave, Library of Wave

Key Songs: "Blow Me a Dub", "I’m So Fly"

Influence: Max B greatly influenced the wave sound that many current artists have adopted.

Explore Max B’s work on Tidal.

78. K Camp

Key Albums: Only Way Is Up, K.I.S.S. 4

Key Songs: "Cut It", "Comfortable"

Influence: K Camp’s catchy hooks and melodic touch have solidified him as a key artist in today’s R&B/hip-hop crossover.

Check out K Camp on Spotify.

79. JoJo

Key Albums: JoJo, The High Road

Key Songs: "Leave (Get Out)", "Too Little, Too Late"

Influence: JoJo’s powerful voice and collaborations with hip-hop artists show the rap genre’s diversity.

Listen to JoJo on Apple Music.

80. Kid Ink

Key Albums: My Own Lane, Full Speed

Key Songs: "Show Me", "Main Chick"

Influence: Kid Ink’s harmonious integration of rap and pop makes his tracks extremely popular.

Discover Kid Ink on Apple Music.

81. Wiz Khalifa

Key Albums: Rolling Papers, Khalifa

Key Songs: "Black and Yellow", "See You Again"

Influence: Wiz’s unique style and delivery made him prominent in both hip-hop and popular culture.

Listen to Wiz on Tidal.

82. Ty Dolla Sign

Key Albums: Free TC, Ty Dolla Sign

Key Songs: "Paranoid", "Or Nah"

Influence: Ty’s sultry hooks and smooth beats meld R&B and hip-hop with elegance.

Check out Ty Dolla Sign on Apple Music.

83. Lil’ Kim

Key Albums: Hard Core, The Naked Truth

Key Songs: "Crush on You", "Lady Marmalade"

Influence: Lil’ Kim’s bold style and powerful presence influenced a new generation of female rappers.

Listen to Lil’ Kim on YouTube.

84. Fetty Wap

Key Albums: Fetty Wap, King Zoo

Key Songs: "Trap Queen", "679"

Influence: Fetty Wap’s signature sound and undeniable hits have placed him at the forefront of modern hip-hop.

Discover Fetty Wap on Spotify.

85. Kanye West

Key Albums: The College Dropout, Late Registration

Key Songs: "Stronger", "Gold Digger"

Influence: Kanye has revolutionized hip-hop through his innovative production and divisive lyrics.

Check out Kanye’s music on Tidal.

86. Offset

Key Albums: Father of 4

Key Songs: "Ric Flair Drip", "Bad and Boujee"

Influence: Offset has influenced contemporary rap with his distinct flow and lyrical dexterity.

Discover Offset’s work on YouTube.

87. Famous Dex

Key Albums: Dex Meet Dexter

Key Songs: "Pick It Up", "Japan"

Influence: Famous Dex’s eccentric style and tendencies have made him a popular figure in modern hip-hop.

Check out Famous Dex on Spotify.

88. Macklemore

Key Albums: The Heist, This Unruly Mess I’ve Made

Key Songs: "Thrift Shop", "Can’t Hold Us"

Influence: Macklemore’s social commentary has resonated with various audiences, bridging gaps between hip-hop and pop.

Listen to Macklemore on Apple Music.

89. Logic

Key Albums: Under Pressure, Everybody

Key Songs: "1-800-273-8255", "Everyday"

Influence: Logic’s discussions on mental health have allowed for a broader range of topics in hip-hop music.

Check out Logic on Spotify.

90. Saddleback

Key Albums: Saddleback, Saddleback 2

Key Songs: "Too Many Lies", "Liar"

Influence: Saddleback’s raw lyricism and delivery entertain while providing significant cultural commentary.

Discover Saddleback’s work on Spotify.

91. Lil Pump

Key Albums: Lil Pump

Key Songs: "Gucci Gang", "I Love It"

Influence: Lil Pump’s extravagant personality and viral hits have captured the attention of today’s youth.

Check out Lil Pump on SoundCloud.

92. Desiigner

Key Albums: New English, L.O.D. (Life Of Desiigner)

Key Songs: "Panda", "Tiimmy Turner"

Influence: With his Ohio roots, Desiigner’s energetic style and catchy beats have made him a key figure in modern hip-hop.

Discover Desiigner on YouTube.

93. Rich The Kid

Key Albums: The World Is Yours, Boss Man

Key Songs: "New Freezer", "Plug Walk"

Influence: Rich The Kid’s energetic style and upbeat tracks embody the essence of contemporary trap music.

Listen to Rich The Kid on Apple Music.

94. T-Pain

Key Albums: Rappa Ternt Sanga, Epiphany

Key Songs: "Buy U a Drank", "Bartender"

Influence: T-Pain’s use of autotune revolutionized modern music, inspiring countless artists.

Discover T-Pain on YouTube.

95. Russ

Key Albums: There’s Really a Wolf, Zoo

Key Songs: "What They Want", "Losin Control"

Influence: Russ’s self-made approach and control over his music production mark a new trend in hip-hop.

Check out Russ on Spotify.

96. NLE Choppa

Key Albums: Top Shotta, From Dark to Light

Key Songs: "Shotta Flow", "Camelot"

Influence: Known for his fast-paced delivery, NLE Choppa delivers impactful messages through his music.

Discover NLE Choppa’s work on Spotify.

97. 2 Chainz

Key Albums: Based on a T.R.U. Story, Pretty Girls Like Trap Music

Key Songs: "No Lie", "I’m Different"

Influence: 2 Chainz’s clever wordplay has made him a prominent figure in mainstream hip-hop.

Listen to 2 Chainz on Tidal.

98. Rico Nasty

Key Albums: Nasty, Anger Management

Key Songs: "Pussy Poppin", "Roof"

Influence: Rico Nasty’s confrontational style and punk influences represent a unique voice in contemporary hip-hop.

Explore Rico Nasty’s tracks on YouTube.

99. Lil Baby

Key Albums: My Turn, It’s Only Me

Key Songs: "Drip Too Hard", "Woah"

Influence: Lil Baby’s raw lyrics and ability to convey relatable messages cement his reputation in modern hip-hop.

Check out Lil Baby on Spotify.

100. Denzel Curry

Key Albums: Imperial, TA13OO

Key Songs: "Ultimate", "CLOUT COBAIN"

Influence: Denzel’s lyrical depth and genre-shifting sound have made him a pillar in the underground hip-hop scene.

Listen to Denzel Curry on Apple Music.

Hip-hop is a rich, ever-evolving genre that reflects society’s complexities and creative spirit. The artists in this list have not only shaped the sound but have inspired future generations to express themselves. From conscious lyricists to party anthems, each artist plays a significant role in the vibrant tapestry of hip-hop. Listen, explore, and celebrate this influential genre!

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