Whenever anyone makes a list like this, they should expect to catch some heat. Every fan of hip hop will have a different answer to the question, and a series of speeches lined up to support their points. We get it, loyalties are real!
Whenever anyone makes a list like this, they should expect to catch some heat.
Every fan of hip hop will have a different answer to the question, and a series of speeches lined up to support their points. We get it, loyalties are real!
But we’re confident we have the facts straight on the top 3 rappers of all time, and we’re prepared to back up our selections fully.
Taking into account album sales, critical acclaim, love from the fans, and overall influence on the industry, here is the official RapTV list of the 3 best rappers ever.
LIL WAYNE
Like we said earlier, earning a spot on this list of rap royalty is about more than just flow. It’s about being a defining force in the entire hip hop industry and changing the game forever.
With those criteria in mind, Lil Wayne deserves a mention among the greatest ever.
He began as a scrappy young New Orleans MC and climbed his way up through every aspect of the industry over the years, all while staying relevant as an artist and producing hits.
Some artists focus on production, others focus on rhymes. Many rappers put down the mic and pick up a pen, choosing to pursue business ventures instead of Grammys and Billboard numbers. Wayne has been doing all of the above with ease, for well over two decades now.
Current superstars like Kendrick Lamar and Nicki Minaj also owe a lot to Wayne, who recognized their potential early on and signed them to the Young Money label.
His versatility, wisdom, and persistence have put him in the three-spot on this epic list, and we’re certain he will remain at the top of his game for many more years to come!
EMINEM
Humble trailer park living defined Eminem’s early years, where he struggled to make ends meet and rose up through the local battle rap ranks.
Thanks to the keen eyes and ears of Dr. Dre, the young Marshall Mathers hopped on board at Aftermath Entertainment circa 1998. Less than a year later, Eminem was the next big thing.
Shattering stereotypes and record sales with his G-funk inspired cartoony horror style, Eminem’s Slim Shady persona truly earned every Parental Advisory sticker!
The accomplishments of Eminem can’t be understated, as nearly every single album he ever released has been a top-seller or Grammy winner.
Fans of Marshall are a bit obsessed with the man and want to know everything about him. How tall is Eminem, who are his friends, and what does he like to eat? Nothing is off-limits when you’re a die-hard supporter!
These days, Eminem is cruising along making new music and still racking up sales. He has earned his spot on this legendary list for sure!
JAY-Z
We can’t even imagine hip hop in 2020 without the incredible contributions of Shawn Carter, better known to the world as Jay-Z.
Shawn went from a drug-dealing New York City youth to becoming the world’s first rap game billionaire, illustrating the ultimate rags-to-riches story and consecrating his name at the head of the hip hop hall of fame.
While other artists wait a while to start their own label, Jay didn’t delay his business vision and founded Roc-A-Fella Records in 1995.
Following the release of Reasonable Doubt, Jay had the momentum he needed and everything he touched since has turned to gold.
From sportswear to high-end bars and even tech startups, the Carter empire is unlike anything else that has emerged from the rap scene.
He even recently stepped into the education game, partnering with Long Island University to create an entrepreneur program for students.
Jay is untouchable, which is why we enshrined him at the very top!
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