Today we are going to share the list Most Famous Rappers in the World of all time. But, note that this list is based on my research so it might be possible that some of your favorite rappers might not be included in this.
Rap music or hip hop was introduced by the African American community in the Bronx, New York in the 1970s. DJ Kool founded this form of music and because of that, he was nicknamed the Father of Hip-Hop. He used a two-turntable set-up of disco DJs and used two copies of the same record to extend the break.
Along with DJ Kool, Afrika Bambaataa and Grandmaster Flash were also big names in the world of rap music. “Rappers Delight” was the first rap song that successfully made its way to the top 40 chart hit, and it also became the first hip-hop song that was featured on the radio.
The lyrics of rap songs can be personal experiences of the rappers, stories, and social issues. The late 80s was known as the “Golden Age of rap music. The public enemy group came up with confrontational lyrics. It influenced many people with their politically charged songs.
Commercially, rap music reached the peak of success in the 2000s. With the rise of artists like Eminem, Jay-Z, and 50 Cent, the genre sold like hotcakes. During this time, the genre adopted some elements from R&B, pop, and electronic music. Kanye West’s “The College Dropout” and “Late Registration” are examples of the blended style.
Most Famous Rappers in the World of all time
Eminem
Marshall Bruce Mathers, popularly known as Eminem is an American rapper. The combination of his provocative lyrics, his wordplay, and his technical skills set him apart from the rest. In the arena of black dominated genre, Eminem became one of the most influential figures in the history of rap music, which broke the racial barriers.
In 1996, he released his first album Infinite, it flopped commercially, but it managed to highlight his lyrical talent and potential. His second album The Slim Shady EP (1997) drew the attention of Dr. Dre, and Eminem signed with his Aftermath Entertainment, resulting in the huge success of The Slim Shady LP in 1999.
Jay Z
Shaen Corey Carter, also known as Jay-Z, is an American rapper, songwriter, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. His first album, Reasonable Doubt, was released in 1996, which was critically acclaimed. The album sold more than a million copies in the US alone.
In my lifetime Vol.1 and Vol1 came out in 1997 and the success of these two albums made him soared in popularity. His album, The Blueprint (2001), is said to be one of the greatest rap albums of all time. He got his first Grammy Award in 1998. He has won 28 Grammy awards, which made him one of the most awarded artists.
Tupac
Late Tupac Shakur, also known as 2pac, was a versatile American rapper and songwriter. Tupac told his life journey through music. He took rap seriously and thought that it was not just a means of entertainment.
His first album, 2Pacalypse Now, was released in 1991. It tells the story of police brutality, racial discrimination, and urban struggles through his socially conscious lyrics. His second album, Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z… (1993), which has his hit singles “I Get Around” and ‘Keep Ya Head Up,” was a big success.
Many of his albums were released posthumously and sold more than 75 million records after his death. He was the first artist who won two no.1 rap albums in one year span. His highest selling album “All Eyes on Me” made almost 23 million in 1996.
Kanye West
Kanye West, also known as Ye, is a controversial American rapper, singer, songwriter, and fashion designer. His debut album, The College Dropout, was released in 2004. It was critically acclaimed and a commercial success. “Late Registration is his highest-selling album, which sold over 6,387,517 copies.
His catchy songs make his listeners want to listen to his songs again and again. Sometimes the lyrics of his songs can tickle the listeners’ funny bones. He is famous for his innovative techniques and entrepreneurship ideas. He is the controversy’s favorite child. Love him or hate him but you cannot ignore Ye.
Drake
Aubrey Drake Graham is a Canadian rapper, singer, and actor. Drake popularized R&B sensibilities in hip-hop artists. Mixing singing with lyrical rapping became his trademark. His debut mixtape, Room for Improvement, was released in 2006. Comeback season, the follow-up to the mixtape came out in 2007, which features “Replacement Girl,” increased his exposure.
With the release of the mixtape So Far Gone in 2009, Drake’s popularity increased, and he ended up signing with Young Money Entertainment. Thank Me Later, his first full-length album, which was released in 2010, made him shot to international stardom. It was followed by Take Care. His third album, Nothing Was the Same, came out in 2013. All three were commercially successful.
Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar Duckworth is an American rapper and songwriter. Many people regarded him as the greatest rapper of all time. He is the only rapper who was honored with the Pulitzer Prize for Music. His social commentary and political criticism-influenced lyrics caught the attention of millions of people.
His first mixtape was released, Youngest Head Nigga in Charge, in 2003, which drew the attention of Anthony Tiffith, and singed with Top Dawg Entertainment. His second album, Good Kid, M.A.A.D City, was released in 2012. He was nominated for a Grammy for his second album. He won his first Grammy for To Pimp a Butterfly’s “I”. So far, the rapper has won 17 Grammy Awards.
Nas (Nasir Jones)
Nasir Bin Olu Dara Jones, also known as Nas, is an American rapper, songwriter, entrepreneur, and investor. In 1994, Nas released his debut album, Illmatic, which became one of the most loved hip-hop albums of all time. In 1996, his second album came out and sold successfully sold over a quarter million units.
He rose to prominence with this album. His third album I Am was released in 1999 with his popular singles: “Nas Is Like” and “Hate Me Now.” He was Grammy Award-nominated for this album and sold over two million units. His album King’s Disease was declared the Best Rap Album and won his first Grammy Award for this album in 2021.
Snoop Dogg
Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr, also known by his professional name Snoop Dogg, is an American rapper, record producer, and actor. The iconic rapper, who is a hard-core marijuana addict, rose to fame in 1992 when he appeared on Dr. Dre’s debut single “Deep Cover.” He appeared on Dr. Dre’s debut solo album The Chronic later in that year.
In 1993, his debut studio album, Doggystyle, was released by Dead Row Record. In its first week, the album sold 800,000 copies. Tha Doggfather, his second album came out in 1996. It was a huge success and it received double platinum certification.
Tech N9ne
Aron Dontez Yates, also known as Tech N9ne, is an American singer and rapper, famous for his “chopper” style. On stage, he comes up with innovative ideas to entertain the audience like face paint and iconic costumes. Tech N9ne, with his unique rapping style with the smoothest flow, is one of the most influential figures in the world of hip hop.
So far, he has released 22 albums and sold more than 2 million copies. His first album, The Calm Before the Storm, which has his famous number “Cloudy Eyed Stroll” highlighted his rapid-fire delivery. His rhymes and flows make him stand out from the rest.
Nicki Minaj
Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, also known as Nicki Minaj, is an American. She is referred to as the “Queen of Rap.” She is a great entertainer and people love her energetic on-stage performance. Her debut album, Pink Friday, came out in 2010 and managed to top the US Billboard 200 chart.
Her single “Anaconda” became one of the most famous songs on body positivity. She has won many awards. She has collaborated with many other famous rappers. Nicki Minaj is famous not only for being a talented rapper but also for her outspoken personality. She makes her presence felt on social media by keeping in touch with her fans.
