π₯ Top 10 Legendary Hip-Hop Artists
From poetic icons to chart-topping kings — here’s the all-time greats of rap culture.
π₯ 1. Tupac Shakur (2Pac)
Birthplace: East Harlem, New York City, USA
Legendary rapper known for his poetic lyrics, political activism, and deep emotional storytelling. Songs like “Changes”, “Dear Mama”, and “Hit 'Em Up” cemented his legacy.
π€ 2. The Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls)
Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York City, USA
Iconic East Coast rapper celebrated for his smooth flow, storytelling, and street tales. Albums like “Ready to Die” are classics.
π 3. Jay-Z
Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York City, USA
One of the most successful rappers and businessmen in music history. Known for “Empire State of Mind”, “99 Problems”, and building Roc Nation.
π¦ 4. Eminem
Birthplace: St. Joseph, Missouri, USA
A lyrical genius and best-selling rapper of all time. Known for rapid-fire delivery and personal content. Songs like “Lose Yourself”, “Stan”, and “Mockingbird” are iconic.
π 5. Kendrick Lamar
Birthplace: Compton, California, USA
A Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper known for conscious lyrics and storytelling. Albums like “good kid, m.A.A.d city” and “DAMN.” are critically acclaimed.
π¦ 6. Drake
Birthplace: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
One of the most commercially successful rappers. Blends rap and R&B, with hits like “God’s Plan”, “Hotline Bling”, and “One Dance”.
π 7. Nas
Birthplace: Queens, New York City, USA
Known for his lyrical prowess and classic debut “Illmatic”. Nas is a pillar of hip-hop's golden age and still influential today.
π§ 8. Ice Cube
Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
Founding member of N.W.A. and a pioneer of West Coast gangsta rap. Later became a successful actor and producer.
π« 9. Lil Wayne
Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Known for his punchline-heavy style and prolific output. Albums like “Tha Carter III” made him a hip-hop giant.
π 10. J. Cole
Birthplace: Frankfurt, Germany (raised in Fayetteville, NC, USA)
Known for introspective lyrics, producing his own music, and creating Dreamville. Albums like “2014 Forest Hills Drive” are highly praised.