How many times have you heard people say that Hip-Hop is dead? With the recent passing of the 20th anniversary of Tupac, a rapper many considered to be one of the best, it leaves us to wonder what has happened to hip-hop and who has solidified their place in this dynamic realm. Hip-hop is a genre that is very versatile; but when I say hip-hop, I don't mean Desiigner. I don't even mean Future. I am talking about the hip-hop that told a story of the past, present, and the future; a story that was a depiction of reality.
12. Kendrick Lamar
Hip-hop has always been about more than just the lyrics. Kendrick uses his music and performances to showcase a social and political statement that needs to be heard. It's much easier to choose to be silent in hard times, but Kendrick instead decides to stand up for what he believes in.
Songs to check out: i and The Blacker the Berry
11. Eminem
You may actually think I'm a little deluded with this decision, but think about it. Eminem when he first dropped onto the scene with Dr. Dre was innovative and brilliant. I wouldn't expect anything less from someone who is connected to Dr. Dre. He may have a lot of controversial opinions, and he may say some out of pocket statements, but the early 2000's Eminem is indisputably great.
Songs to check out: Mockingbird and Stan
10. OutKast
When I say Outkast, I basically mean Andre 3000, but I can't deny the magic that Outkast created. How could I not acknowledge the people who collaborated to bring us the most legendary anthem, and I don't mean the National anthem.
Songs to check out: B.O.B. and Rosa Parks
9. Missy Elliott
She is the brains behind a lot of your favorite songs. She is a lyrical genius and performer too. Her unique style has kept her relevant for more than two decades. Who else could rock a trash bag? Your fave could never.
Songs to check out: Pass That Dutch and I'm Really Hot
8. The Old Kanye
I'm not talking 'bout the new Kanye. Kanye West had it right when he said "I miss the old Kanye." He used to be the one I could count on to speak up for what was right because he was careless and stubborn. He was unapologetic and conscious of the world around him.
Songs to check out: Everything I Am and Roses
7. Nas
Could you imagine a list that didn't acknowledge Nas? The imagery of his album cover, Life Is Good, is noteworthy and thought-provoking, which leaves us to create a story.
Songs to check out: If I Ruled The World and Daughters
6. Public Enemy
Flavor Flav!!! Before he was the iconic bachelor on Flavor of Love, he was part of a renowned hip-hop group, named Public Enemy.
Songs to check out: Fight the Power and 911 Is A Joke
5. Jay-Z
I guess you could say he's more than just Beyonce's husband. Remember when he supposedly retired a few years ago? Well, it looks like we still needed him to create music, because he's still here providing us with verses that are unrivaled. (We can just forget about that verse in Monster.)
Songs to check out: Lost One and Otis
4. NWA
This was my way of squeezing both Ice Cube and Dr. Dre into the rankings. NWA just represents everything the culture is about. Not only did they produce music that sounded good, but there was substance that allowed people to relate to a life that wasn't as glamorous and picture perfect like the media typically showed. They are accredited for creating the genre we know as "Gangsta Rap." Snoop Dogg is an honorable mention that is a strongly associated musical act, because of his relationship with Dr. Dre.
Songs to check out: Still D.R.E. by Dr. Dre and Express Yourself
3. Lil Kim
Honestly, truly, she's iconic. She was one of the female rappers who proved that she could keep up with the best of the best in a genre that is seen to be a male dominated industry.
Songs to check out: The Jump Off and How Many Licks?
2. Tupac
Imagine how much more he could have done for the community. He rapped to try and make change. With his blunt and intellectual personality he was someone we weren't quite ready for in our society. Tupac is a legend, and he will never be forgotten. Rest In Power.
Songs to check out: Changes and I Ain't Mad At Cha
1. The Notorious BIG
Another one taken from us too soon, but The Notorious BIG still managed to reach a level that can't be topped. Tupac Shakur and Christopher "Biggie" Wallace not only define the 90's, but also hip-hop. Rest Easy.
Songs to check out: Going Back to Cali and Suicidal Thoughts
Hip-hop is such a wide genre of expression, and it can be a huge debate when talking about who the best of the best is (just ask my African American Studies class). Hip-hop is a genre that relies on those who come before them. So, each artist is a vital part within the culture. These artists are the people we mean when we talk about hip-hop. This is an ode to hip-hop.
