Hip hop, as a genre, is primarily known for its rappers, who deliver rhythmic and rhyming vocals over a beat. However, there are also singers within the hip hop genre who contribute to the music in various ways. These singers often provide hooks, choruses, or melodic verses, adding a different dynamic to the songs.
Some hip hop singers are known for their soulful and emotive vocals, adding depth and emotion to the music. They may also bring elements of R&B, jazz, or gospel into their singing, creating a rich and diverse sound. Other hip hop singers focus on catchy hooks and melodies, adding a pop sensibility to the music.
Hip hop singers play an important role in the genre, helping to create memorable and impactful songs. Their contributions add texture and nuance to the music, making hip hop a genre that is constantly evolving and changing.
1. Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur, also known as 2Pac, was an iconic American rapper, actor, and social activist who rose to fame in the 1990s. Born in 1971, Tupac’s music often reflected the struggles and realities of inner-city life, addressing themes such as racism, violence, and social injustice. His lyrics were deeply personal, drawing from his own experiences and emotions.
Tupac’s impact on hip hop and popular culture is profound, with his music transcending genre and resonating with people around the world. His albums, including “2Pacalypse Now,” “Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z…,” and “All Eyez on Me,” are considered classics of the genre. Tupac’s life was tragically cut short when he was fatally shot in 1996 at the age of 25, but his legacy as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time endures.
2. The Notorious B.I.G.
The Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls, was a legendary American rapper who emerged from the Brooklyn hip-hop scene in the early 1990s. Born Christopher Wallace in 1972, his lyrical prowess and distinctive flow quickly garnered attention and acclaim. Biggie’s music often depicted the harsh realities of inner-city life, juxtaposed with tales of wealth and success.
Biggie’s debut album, “Ready to Die,” released in 1994, is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, featuring iconic tracks like “Juicy” and “Big Poppa.” His smooth delivery, vivid storytelling, and unparalleled charisma solidified his status as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Tragically, Biggie’s life was cut short when he was murdered in a drive-by shooting in Los Angeles in 1997, at the age of 24. Despite his untimely death, his impact on hip hop and popular culture remains immense, with his legacy enduring through his music and influence on future generations of artists.
3. Jay-Z
Jay-Z, born Shawn Corey Carter in 1969, is an iconic American rapper, songwriter, record executive, and businessman. With a career spanning over three decades, Jay-Z is widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Jay-Z’s lyrical prowess, storytelling abilities, and entrepreneurial spirit have set him apart in the world of hip-hop. He has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including “Reasonable Doubt,” “The Blueprint,” and “4:44,” each showcasing his evolution as an artist and his willingness to address personal and social issues.
Beyond music, Jay-Z has made significant contributions to various industries. He co-founded Roc-A-Fella Records, Rocawear clothing line, and is the former owner of the Brooklyn Nets NBA team. Jay-Z’s influence extends far beyond music, as he has used his platform to advocate for social justice and equality.
Jay-Z’s impact on hip-hop and popular culture is immense, solidifying his legacy as not just a rapper, but a cultural icon and a savvy businessman.
4. Eminem
Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III, is an iconic rapper, songwriter, and record producer from Detroit, Michigan. Rising to prominence in the late 1990s, Eminem gained widespread acclaim for his exceptional lyrical skills, rapid-fire delivery, and provocative storytelling. His alter ego, Slim Shady, allowed him to explore controversial themes and dark humor in his music. Albums like “The Slim Shady LP,” “The Marshall Mathers LP,” and “The Eminem Show” propelled him to superstardom, earning him multiple Grammy Awards and cementing his status as one of the greatest rappers of all time. Eminem’s impact on hip-hop culture, from his technical prowess to his candid portrayal of personal struggles, is undeniable, shaping the genre for decades to come.
5. Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., is a legendary rapper, songwriter, actor, and entrepreneur from Long Beach, California. Emerging onto the hip-hop scene in the early 1990s, Snoop Dogg quickly became one of the most iconic figures in the genre. Known for his laid-back flow, smooth delivery, and charismatic persona, he brought a distinct West Coast style to rap music. His debut album, “Doggystyle” (1993), produced by Dr. Dre, became an instant classic, featuring hits like “Gin and Juice” and “Who Am I (What’s My Name)?” Snoop’s influence extends beyond music, with successful ventures in film, television, and business. His enduring legacy in hip-hop culture, characterized by his effortless cool and infectious charm, solidifies his status as a true icon of the genre.
6. Nas
Nas, born Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones in 1973, is a legendary American rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur. Hailing from Queens, New York, Nas is known for his poetic lyrics, storytelling abilities, and socially conscious themes.
Nas rose to fame with his landmark debut album, “Illmatic,” released in 1994, which is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. His intricate rhyme schemes, vivid imagery, and introspective storytelling set a new standard for lyricism in hip-hop.
Throughout his career, Nas has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “It Was Written,” “Stillmatic,” and “God’s Son,” each showcasing his versatility as an artist and his ability to evolve with the times. Nas’ music often addresses issues such as racism, poverty, and the struggles of urban life, resonating with audiences worldwide.
In addition to his music, Nas is also a successful entrepreneur, with ventures in film, fashion, and technology. His influence on hip-hop and popular culture is profound, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
7. Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar is a groundbreaking rapper, songwriter, and record producer from Compton, California, known for his socially conscious lyrics, intricate wordplay, and innovative approach to hip-hop. Rising to prominence in the late 2000s, Lamar gained widespread acclaim with his mixtapes and early studio albums, showcasing his storytelling abilities and introspective narratives. His major label debut, “good kid, m.A.A.d city” (2012), propelled him to mainstream success, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. Subsequent albums like “To Pimp a Butterfly” (2015) and “DAMN.” (2017) further solidified his reputation as one of the most influential artists of his generation, tackling themes of race, identity, and societal issues. With multiple Grammy Awards and a Pulitzer Prize for Music to his name, Kendrick Lamar’s impact on hip-hop transcends music, cementing his legacy as an artistic visionary and cultural icon.
8. Ice Cube
Ice Cube, born O’Shea Jackson in 1969, is an iconic American rapper, actor, producer, and filmmaker. Emerging from the West Coast hip-hop scene in the late 1980s, Ice Cube gained fame as a member of the pioneering rap group N.W.A. Known for his raw, politically charged lyrics and aggressive delivery, Ice Cube’s early solo albums, such as “AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted” and “Death Certificate,” cemented his reputation as one of the genre’s most influential artists.
Ice Cube’s music often addresses issues of racial inequality, police brutality, and the struggles of urban life, reflecting his experiences growing up in South Central Los Angeles. In addition to his music career, Ice Cube has also found success as an actor and filmmaker, starring in films like “Boyz n the Hood,” “Friday,” and “Barbershop,” and producing the hit film “Straight Outta Compton,” which chronicles the rise of N.W.A.
Ice Cube’s impact on hip-hop and popular culture is profound, with his music and films inspiring generations of artists and filmmakers. His fearless approach to tackling social issues and his unapologetic authenticity have solidified his legacy as a true icon of hip-hop.
9. Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne, born Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., is a pioneering rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur from New Orleans, Louisiana. Emerging in the late 1990s as a member of the hip-hop group Hot Boys, Lil Wayne quickly established himself as a solo artist with his distinctive raspy voice, clever wordplay, and unparalleled work ethic. His breakthrough album, “Tha Carter III” (2008), became a commercial and critical success, spawning hits like “Lollipop” and “A Milli” and earning him multiple Grammy Awards. Lil Wayne’s prolific output, characterized by his mixtapes, collaborations, and solo albums, has solidified his status as one of the most influential figures in hip-hop, inspiring generations of artists with his innovative style and enduring impact on the genre.
10. Drake
Drake, born Aubrey Drake Graham in 1986, is a Canadian rapper, singer, songwriter, actor, and entrepreneur. He first gained recognition for his role as Jimmy Brooks on the TV series “Degrassi: The Next Generation” before launching his music career.
Drake’s music is characterized by his introspective lyrics, catchy melodies, and seamless blending of rap and R&B styles. His debut studio album, “Thank Me Later,” was released in 2010 and was followed by a string of successful albums, including “Take Care,” “Nothing Was the Same,” and “Views.”
Drake’s music often explores themes of love, fame, and personal growth, resonating with a broad audience. He has won multiple Grammy Awards and holds several Billboard chart records. Beyond music, Drake has ventured into business, with investments in fashion, sports, and technology.
Drake’s impact on hip-hop and popular culture is undeniable, with his versatile style and emotional depth influencing a new generation of artists. He remains one of the best-selling musicians in the world and continues to push boundaries in both music and business.
11. Kanye West
Kanye West is a visionary rapper, producer, fashion designer, and entrepreneur from Chicago, Illinois, known for his groundbreaking contributions to music and culture. Rising to prominence in the early 2000s as a producer for artists like Jay-Z, West quickly transitioned into a successful solo career with his debut album, “The College Dropout” (2004). Known for his innovative production techniques, thought-provoking lyrics, and bold artistic vision, West has continually pushed the boundaries of hip-hop and popular music. Albums like “Late Registration,” “Graduation,” and “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” have earned critical acclaim and commercial success, cementing his status as one of the greatest artists of his generation. Beyond music, West’s ventures in fashion, design, and entrepreneurship have further solidified his influence and impact on global culture. Despite controversy and public scrutiny, Kanye West’s artistic genius and unwavering creativity continue to shape the landscape of contemporary music and fashion.
12. Rakim
Rakim, born William Michael Griffin Jr. in 1968, is an influential American rapper and one half of the legendary hip-hop duo Eric B. & Rakim. Hailing from Long Island, New York, Rakim is widely regarded as one of the greatest MCs in hip-hop history, known for his complex lyrics, smooth flow, and innovative rhyme schemes.
Rakim’s partnership with DJ Eric B. produced a string of classic albums, including “Paid in Full” (1987) and “Follow the Leader” (1988), which helped revolutionize the art of lyricism in hip-hop. His laid-back delivery and introspective lyrics set him apart from his contemporaries and have earned him praise from fans and fellow artists alike.
Rakim’s influence on hip-hop is profound, with many considering him the “God MC” for his lyrical prowess and profound impact on the genre. His innovative style has influenced countless rappers, and his legacy as one of the greatest rappers of all time is firmly cemented in hip-hop history.
13. Andre 3000
André 3000, born André Lauren Benjamin in 1975, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, actor, and producer. He is best known for being one half of the hip-hop duo OutKast, alongside Big Boi. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, OutKast rose to prominence in the 1990s with their innovative blend of Southern hip-hop, funk, and soul.
André 3000 is celebrated for his unique style, characterized by his clever wordplay, imaginative storytelling, and charismatic delivery. His contributions to OutKast’s discography, including albums like “ATLiens,” “Aquemini,” and “Stankonia,” helped redefine the sound and scope of hip-hop.
In addition to his work with OutKast, André 3000 has pursued a successful solo career and has collaborated with a variety of artists across different genres. He is also known for his acting roles in films such as “Four Brothers” and “Idlewild.”
André 3000’s impact on hip-hop and popular culture is significant, with many considering him one of the greatest rappers of all time. His innovative approach to music and fashion has inspired a generation of artists, solidifying his legacy as a true icon of hip-hop.
14. J. Cole
J. Cole, born Jermaine Lamarr Cole, is a highly respected rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer from Fayetteville, North Carolina. Known for his introspective lyrics, storytelling prowess, and socially conscious themes, J. Cole rose to prominence in the late 2000s with his mixtapes and early studio albums. His debut album, “Cole World: The Sideline Story” (2011), debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying his status as a major player in the hip-hop industry. Subsequent albums like “2014 Forest Hills Drive,” “4 Your Eyez Only,” and “KOD” further showcased his versatility and lyrical depth, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. Beyond music, J. Cole’s activism and philanthropy, along with his label Dreamville Records, demonstrate his commitment to using his platform for positive change. With his authenticity, storytelling prowess, and dedication to his craft, J. Cole has carved out a unique space in hip-hop, inspiring fans and fellow artists alike.
15. Dr. Dre
Dr. Dre, born Andre Romelle Young in 1965, is an American rapper, record producer, and entrepreneur. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop producers of all time, known for his pioneering work in shaping the West Coast sound and his influence on the genre as a whole.
Dr. Dre first gained fame as a member of the influential rap group N.W.A., producing their groundbreaking album “Straight Outta Compton” in 1988. He later embarked on a successful solo career, releasing albums like “The Chronic” (1992) and “2001” (1999), which helped define the G-funk sound and solidify his status as a hip-hop legend.
In addition to his music career, Dr. Dre is also a successful entrepreneur, co-founding the record label Death Row Records and later launching his own successful headphone line, Beats by Dre, which was acquired by Apple in 2014.
Dr. Dre’s impact on hip-hop and popular culture is immense, with his innovative production techniques and iconic beats influencing generations of artists. He remains a revered figure in the music industry and a symbol of success and creativity in hip-hop.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
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