Hip-hop is a genre that has taken over the world, and has become one of the most influential styles of music of all time. The following is a list of ten of the most influential hip-hop artists of all time, who have revolutionized the genre and influenced countless artists who have followed in their footsteps.
Eric B & Rakim
Famous for: "Paid in Full," "I Know You Got Soul"
Albums: "Paid in Full," "Follow the Leader"
Influence: Eric B & Rakim were pioneers of the golden age of hip-hop in the late 1980s and early 1990s. They revolutionized hip-hop with their intricate lyrics and innovative beats, and their influence can be seen in countless hip-hop artists today. They inspired artists such as Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, and Eminem.
Nas
Famous for: "Illmatic," "N.Y. State of Mind" Albums: "Illmatic," "It Was Written"
Influence: Nas is widely regarded as one of the greatest MCs of all time. His debut album, "Illmatic," is considered a classic and one of the most important hip-hop albums of all time. Nas' lyrical style and storytelling have had a profound influence on the genre. He has inspired artists such as J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, and Logic.
Eminem
Famous for: "My Name Is," "Lose Yourself"Albums: "The Slim Shady LP," "The Marshall Mathers LP"
Influence: Eminem is one of the most successful and controversial rappers of all time. He has won numerous awards and has sold millions of records worldwide. His unique style and delivery have influenced many rappers who have followed in his footsteps, including Tyler, The Creator, Hopsin, and MGK.
Andre 3000
Famous for: "Hey Ya!," "Ms. Jackson"Albums: "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below"
Influence: Andre 3000 is one half of the hip-hop duo Outkast. He is known for his eclectic style and innovative approach to music. He has won numerous awards and has been a major influence on hip-hop and popular culture. He has inspired artists such as Childish Gambino, Frank Ocean, and Lil Nas X.
Tupac
Famous for: "California Love," "Changes"Albums: "All Eyez on Me," "Me Against the World"
Influence: Tupac is considered by many to be the greatest rapper of all time. He was known for his powerful lyrics and his social commentary. Tupac's influence can be seen in many of today's rappers, including Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Joey Bada$$.
Biggie Smalls
Famous for: "Juicy," "Big Poppa"Albums: "Ready to Die," "Life After Death"
Influence: Biggie Smalls, also known as The Notorious B.I.G., was one of the most influential rappers of the 1990s. His distinctive flow and storytelling ability helped to define the sound of East Coast hip-hop. He has influenced artists such as Jay-Z, Nas, and Lil' Kim.
Jay-Z
Famous for: "99 Problems," "Empire State of Mind"Albums: "Reasonable Doubt," "The Blueprint"
Influence: Jay-Z is one of the most successful rappers of all time, and has had a major impact on the genre. He has won numerous awards and has influenced countless artists with his style and lyrics. He has inspired artists such as Drake, Kanye West, and J. Cole.
Kanye West
Famous for: "Gold Digger," "Stronger"Albums: "The College Dropout," "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy"
Influence: Kanye West is one of the most innovative and controversial figures in hip-hop. He has won numerous awards and has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the genre. His influence can be seen in many of today's hip-hop artists, including Travis Scott, Chance the Rapper, and Kid Cudi.
Beastie Boys
Famous for: "Fight for Your Right," "Intergalactic"Albums: "Licensed to Ill," "Paul's Boutique"
Influence: The Beastie Boys were one of the first successful white rap groups, and helped to popularize the genre in the 1980s. They were known for their energetic and irreverent style, and their influence can be seen in many of today's hip-hop and alternative artists, including Tyler, The Creator, Run the Jewels, and Beck.
Lil Wayne
Famous for: "A Milli," "Lollipop"Albums: "Tha Carter III," "Tha Carter IV"
Influence: Lil Wayne is one of the most successful and prolific rappers of all time. He has won numerous awards and has had a major influence on the genre. His unique flow and style have inspired many rappers who have followed in his footsteps, including Travis Scott, Future, and 2 Chainz.