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Billboard recently unveiled their compilation of the ten most exceptional rappers in history. The ranking is based on songs and albums that have charted on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard 200 charts.
Jay-Z tops the list at number 1. He has 14 number one albums and 140 million record sales. That makes sense, as did most of the list, but if we could just make a few minor adjustments…
Jay-Z
Shawn Corey Carter, better known as Jay-Z, has risen to be one of the greatest rappers in history. His rise to fame didn’t happen overnight, but he’s used his skill and dedication to make it happen.
As a hip-hop artist, he has released multiple successful albums, including Reasonable Doubt (1996) and The Blueprint (2000). He also co-founded Roc Nation, a multifaceted entertainment company.
Kendrick Lamar
One of rap’s most accomplished artists, Kendrick Lamar has achieved success through his work and his unique lyrical style. Throughout his illustrious career, he has unleashed a multitude of albums and earned an array of prestigious accolades.
Born in Compton, California, Kendrick Lamar is a rapper and record producer. He is known for his ability to make music that speaks volumes and reaches the hearts of people.
Eminem
Eminem is one of the most famous rappers in the world, and for good reason. He’s been a huge hit for years, selling millions of records worldwide.
He’s credited with changing the way people listen to music, which has had a huge impact on the genre. And as a result, he’s received many awards throughout his career.
Nas
Known for his storytelling skills, Nasir Jones is one of the most successful rappers in history. His albums have received high acclaim and his music continues to influence many other rappers.
As a rapper, Nas was able to create thought-provoking lyrics that covered topics such as education, drugs, and hope. He was also able to get his message across to people of all ages and backgrounds.
Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur was a rapper who was able to combine social conscience and rawness into his music. He took inspiration from artists like Public Enemy and Ice Cube.
He was born in New York City and grew up moving around the country frequently because of poverty. He eventually landed in the Baltimore School of the Arts, where he studied acting and writing raps.
Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne stands as one of the most accomplished rap artists of all time, having sold more than 120 million records and securing four Grammy Awards to his name.
He is known for his snarling rhymes filled with canny wordplay and free associative rhymes that showcase his wit. He has also helped to pioneer the modern rap sound.
Jadakiss
Born Jason Terrance Phillips on May 27, 1975, Jadakiss is a hip-hop artist who is best known for his acclaimed discography. The inspirational rapper is a member of the rap group the LOX and has released multiple studio albums.
A seasoned pro, Jadakiss is a Yonkers legend who is celebrated for his lyrical intensity and fearless aggression. His abrasive style has made him one of the most popular rappers in the world. He has also worked with several notable artists.
Ghostface Killah
Ghostface Killah is one of the most accomplished rappers in hip-hop history. He started his career as a member of the Wu-Tang Clan, and has since gone on to produce several successful solo albums.
In his 22 years in the game, Ghostface has released six Wu-Tang albums, 11 solo albums and four collaborative projects. He is also a highly creative and witty rapper.
Biggie Smalls
The late rapper Biggie Smalls is one of the most influential rap artists to ever grace the genre. His husky voice, powerful flow, and “bad boy” image have been immortalized in popular culture.
Born Christopher Wallace, he grew up in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood and was interested in rap from a young age. He started performing with local rap crews and later found success as a solo artist.
Nicki Minaj
Billboard and Vibe have revealed their list of the greatest rappers of all time. Nicki Minaj has landed at number 10 on the list.
She’s the only female MC to make this list, and she earned a place in the top 10. She has undeniably blazed the trail for the next generation of female rappers while building a legacy that’s hardly limited to the hip-hop world.
