The Best Southern Rappers of All Time

Ranker Hip Hop
Updated May 6, 2024 272.2K views 78 items
Ranked By
82.7K votes
7.2K voters
6 reranks
Voting Rules
Only famous rappers who are from or started their careers in the South.
Latest additions: Megan Thee Stallion, Flo Milli
Most divisive: Lil' Flip
Over 7.2K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Southern Rappers

To many people, rap music is historically based in the Northeast, however, as the 1990s proved, Southern rappers are not only as force to be reckoned with, but are some of the best rappers period. Southern rap has grown from a regional form of music to being heard far and wide, and remains one of the best rap genres and easily one of the most recognizable. Southern rap encompasses rappers from Atlanta, Miami, New Orleans, Houston and Memphis. These are the most popular outposts for good Southern rap. The "Dirty South" sound has influenced rappers from all over the world and its impact cannot be said enough.

So, who are the best Southern rappers? If you're a fan of Southern rap, you know famous names like Outkast, T.I., Mystikal, Master P, Lil Wayne, Juvenile, the Geto Boys, Ludacris, Three 6 Mafia, and Texas rappers like Twisted Black. These are some of the names synonymous with Southern rap and with good reason. They've sold out arenas, had hit songs and have won a slew of awards, including Grammys. There's a reason why Southern hip hop remains wildly popular and it's because of the songs created by the talented rappers on this list.

That said, it's up to you to determine who are the best Southern rappers. This list answers the questions "who are the best southern rap bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest southern rap musician ever?" If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the musician's music instead of just voting for the most popular southern rap bands that you might've heard of.

  • Outkast
    1

    Outkast

    2,549 votes

    Emanating from the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, OutKast revolutionized Southern hip-hop with their unique blend of funk, soul, and futuristic elements. Comprised of two equally ingenious emcees, André 3000 and Big Boi, their lyrical prowess and innovative production set them apart from their contemporaries. With six unforgettable studio albums, including the timeless "ATLiens" and the genre-defying "Stankonia," OutKast's impact on hip-hop culture is monumental; their infectious energy and unparalleled creativity remain unmatched to this day.

    Outkast (stylized as OutKast) is an American hip hop duo formed in 1992 in East Point, Georgia, composed of Atlanta-based rappers André "André 3000" Benjamin (formerly known as Dré) and Antwan "Big Boi" Patton. The duo achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s, helping to popularize Southern hip hop while experimenting with diverse genres such as funk, psychedelia, jazz, and techno.Benjamin and Patton formed the group as high school students in 1992. Outkast released their debut album Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik in 1994, which gained popularity after the single "Player's Ball" reached number one on the Billboard Hot Rap Tracks chart. With successive releases including ATLiens (1996) and Aquemini (1998), the duo further developed their sound, experimenting with a variety of styles and achieving commercial success. In 2000, Outkast released the critically acclaimed Stankonia, which included the singles "Ms. Jackson" and "B.O.B." In September 2003, the duo released the double album Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, which featured the number one singles "Hey Ya!" and "The Way You Move." The album would eventually win the Grammy Award for Album of the Year and was certified Diamond by the Recording Industry Association of America. Outkast next released the soundtrack for the 2006 musical film Idlewild, which they also starred in. In 2007, the duo went on hiatus and both members have since pursued solo careers. In 2014, Outkast reunited to celebrate their 20th anniversary by performing at more than 40 festivals worldwide, beginning at the Coachella Festival in April.The duo is one of the most successful hip-hop groups of all time, having received six Grammy Awards. Between six studio albums and a greatest hits release, Outkast has sold over 25 million records. Meanwhile, they have garnered widespread critical acclaim, with publications such as Rolling Stone and Pitchfork Media listing albums such as Aquemini and Stankonia among the best of their era.
    More OutkastRight Arrow
  • André 3000
    2

    André 3000

    2,405 votes

    As one-half of the groundbreaking duo Outkast, André 3000, born André Benjamin, consistently pushed boundaries in Southern hip-hop with his eccentric personality, intricate wordplay, and incomparable style. Known for his mind-bending lyrics and thought-provoking concepts, André's rhymes have captivated audiences for over two decades. His solo work on OutKast's double album, "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below," showcased his extraordinary versatility as an artist, further solidifying his position as a pivotal figure in the annals of rap history.

    More André 3000Right Arrow
  • votes needed!
    NEW TO THE LIST
    • NEW
      #57
      Megan Thee Stallion
      158 votes
    • NEW
      #76
      Flo Milli
      15 votes
  • Lil Wayne
    3

    Lil Wayne

    2,282 votes

    From his humble beginnings with the Hot Boys to becoming the self-proclaimed "Best Rapper Alive," Lil Wayne has consistently raised the bar for Southern rappers. Hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana, Dwayne Michael Carter Jr.'s unmistakable raspy voice and relentless punchlines have cemented him as a heavyweight in the game. Having released numerous chart-topping hits and highly influential mixtapes, Weezy's impact on hip-hop is undeniable, inspiring a whole generation of artists that came after him.

    More Lil WayneRight Arrow
  • J. Cole
    4

    J. Cole

    1,788 votes

    Fayetteville, North Carolina's J. Cole climbed his way to the top through his heartfelt storytelling and thought-provoking lyrics. Known for his conscious narratives that touch on social issues, personal struggles, and triumphs, Cole's authenticity made him a standout among Southern rappers. With five number-one albums to his name, including the critically acclaimed "2014 Forest Hills Drive," J. Cole's profound influence on the rap landscape remains undiminished.

  • Scarface
    5

    Scarface

    1,947 votes

    Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Scarface is widely regarded as one of the most influential and skilled emcees to emerge from the South. As a member of the pioneering group Geto Boys, he introduced the world to Southern hip-hop's darker side with vivid storytelling and fierce lyricism. His solo career, which includes the groundbreaking "The Diary," has solidified Scarface as a legend in the rap game, inspiring countless artists who followed in his footsteps.

    More ScarfaceRight Arrow
  • Three 6 Mafia
    6

    Three 6 Mafia

    1,358 votes

    Legendary Memphis collective Three 6 Mafia played a pivotal role in bringing the dark, sinister sound of southern hip-hop to the forefront. Co-founded by DJ Paul and Juicy J, this iconic group's hypnotic production style and gritty lyrics proved to be not only influential but also commercially successful. Their 2005 Oscar win for "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp" marked a significant milestone in hip-hop history, showcasing the immense talent and potential of Southern rap.

    More Three 6 MafiaRight Arrow
  • Big Boi
    7

    Big Boi

    1,379 votes

    As the other half of the iconic duo OutKast, Big Boi has been a driving force in Southern hip-hop for decades. Known for his smooth flow, clever wordplay, and undeniable charisma, Antwan André Patton's contributions to the rap game are vast and undeniable. With an eclectic range of musical influences, Big Boi continues to evolve and captivate audiences with his solo material, solidifying his status as one of the South's finest emcees.

    More Big BoiRight Arrow
  • Pimp C
    8

    Pimp C

    1,205 votes

    As a founding member of the legendary Texas duo Underground Kingz (UGK), Pimp C played a massive role in shaping the sound and image of Southern hip-hop. Known for his smooth production skills and unapologetic rhymes, Chad Lamont Butler's impact on the genre is still felt today. Even after his untimely passing in 2007, Pimp C's legacy continues to grow, reaching new generations of fans and artists alike.

    More Pimp CRight Arrow
  • T.I.
    9

    T.I.

    2,089 votes

    Hailing from the streets of Atlanta, T.I. burst onto the scene with his distinct blend of braggadocious swagger and gritty, introspective storytelling. Often credited as the originator of "trap music," Clifford Joseph Harris Jr.'s influence has reverberated throughout the entire rap community. With multiple chart-topping hits and critically acclaimed albums under his belt, T.I.'s place among the elite Southern rappers is indisputable.

    More T.I.Right Arrow
  • Ludacris
    10

    Ludacris

    1,939 votes

    Born in Champaign, Illinois, but bred in Atlanta, Georgia, Christopher Brian Bridges, better known as Ludacris, has long been a mainstay in Southern rap. Balancing a unique sense of humor with hard-hitting lyricism, Luda's infectious energy and charisma have kept him in high demand since his breakthrough album "Back for the First Time." As both a successful rapper and actor, Ludacris has managed to permeate popular culture, proving that Southern talent knows no bounds.

    More LudacrisRight Arrow
  • Bun B
    11

    Bun B

    1,370 votes

    Bernard Freeman, better known as Bun B, has long been a linchpin of Southern hip-hop, both as a member of the iconic duo UGK and as a successful solo artist. His deep, authoritative voice and poignant storytelling have made him an influential figure within the rap community. A torchbearer for Texas hip-hop, Bun B's lasting impact on the genre is evident in the myriad of artists who cite him as inspiration.

    More Bun BRight Arrow
  • Geto Boys
    12

    Geto Boys

    1,218 votes

    As pioneers of Southern hip-hop, Houston's Geto Boys set the stage for the genre's growth and evolution. Comprised of Scarface, Willie D, and Bushwick Bill, this groundbreaking trio tackled controversial issues and chilling tales of street life with their gritty, raw lyricism. Their influence can still be felt today, as the Geto Boys laid the foundation for the future success of countless Southern rappers.

    More Geto BoysRight Arrow
  • Eightball & MJG
    13

    Eightball & MJG

    1,036 votes

    Hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, the dynamic duo Eightball & MJG played an essential role in popularizing the Southern hip-hop sound. Known for their slick flows and relatable storytelling, Premro "Eightball" Smith and Marlon "MJG" Goodwin showcased the undeniable talent that the South had to offer. As critically acclaimed emcees, they earned their place among the Southern rap elite.

    More Eightball & MJGRight Arrow
  • Underground Kingz
    14

    As Texas legends in their own right, Underground Kingz (UGK) paved the way for generations of Southern rappers to come. Comprised of the late Pimp C and Bun B, this iconic duo is best known for their laid-back beats and insightful lyrics about life in the South. Responsible for timeless hits like "Int'l Players Anthem (I Choose You)," UGK's legacy continues to inspire artists today.

    More Underground KingzRight Arrow
  • Gucci Mane
    15

    Gucci Mane

    1,018 votes

    Hailing from Bessemer, Alabama, but rising to fame in Atlanta, Radric Delantic Davis, better known as Gucci Mane, has been an unmistakable force within the Southern rap scene. As a prolific rapper and pioneer of trap music, Gucci's distinctive flow and relentless work ethic have earned him legendary status. With over two decades in the game and no signs of slowing down, Gucci Mane remains a formidable force in hip-hop.

    More Gucci ManeRight Arrow
  • Juvenile
    16

    Juvenile

    937 votes

    As a founding member of the New Orleans-based group Hot Boys, Juvenile established himself as a trailblazer in Southern rap. Known for his distinct voice and infectious hooks, Terius Gray quickly achieved mainstream success with hits like "Back That Azz Up" and "Ha." Today, Juvenile's influence can be heard in the music of countless artists who have followed in his footsteps.

    More JuvenileRight Arrow
  • Jeezy
    17

    Jeezy

    1,220 votes

    Born in South Carolina and raised in Atlanta, Jay Wayne Jenkins, better known as Jeezy, rose to prominence with his gritty lyrics and charismatic persona. Often considered a pioneer of modern trap music, Jeezy's unapologetic storytelling struck a chord with fans across the globe. With numerous successful albums and mixtapes to his name, Jeezy has solidified his status as a Southern rap powerhouse.

    More JeezyRight Arrow
  • Juicy J
    18

    Juicy J

    944 votes

    One-half of the Memphis rap duo Three 6 Mafia, Juicy J has remained a prominent figure in Southern hip-hop for decades. Known for his hypnotic beats and signature flow, Jordan Michael Houston's undeniable talent extends well beyond his work with Three 6 Mafia. As a successful solo artist and producer, Juicy J's contributions to the rap game are truly unparalleled.

    More Juicy JRight Arrow
  • Killer Mike
    19

    Killer Mike

    869 votes

    As an Atlanta native and one-half of the critically acclaimed duo Run the Jewels, Killer Mike has consistently pushed the boundaries of Southern rap. Recognized for his politically charged lyrics and thought-provoking themes, Michael Render has made a name for himself as not only a talented rapper but also a social activist. Killer Mike's unwavering dedication to his craft and his community solidifies his status as a trailblazer in the rap game.

    More Killer MikeRight Arrow
  • Rick Ross
    20

    Rick Ross

    879 votes

    Born in Clarksdale, Mississippi, but raised in Miami, Florida, William Leonard Roberts II, better known as Rick Ross, has been a dominant force within Southern rap since his debut album "Port of Miami" dropped in 2006. With his unmistakable voice and distinctive production choices, Ross has crafted numerous hits and cultivated a devoted fanbase. As both a rapper and the founder of Maybach Music Group, Rick Ross's impact on the hip-hop landscape is indisputable.

    More Rick RossRight Arrow
  • 2 Chainz
    21

    2 Chainz

    791 votes

    Born in College Park, Georgia, Tauheed Epps, better known as 2 Chainz, has come a long way from his early days as a member of the group Playaz Circle. Known for his clever wordplay and infectious melodies, 2 Chainz's solo career skyrocketed with hits like "Birthday Song" and "I'm Different." With numerous successful albums under his belt, 2 Chainz continues to make his mark on the Southern rap landscape.

    More 2 ChainzRight Arrow
  • Project Pat
    22

    Project Pat

    775 votes

    As the older brother of Juicy J, Patrick Earl Houston, aka Project Pat, is no stranger to the rap game. Emerging from the Memphis hip-hop scene, the Southern emcee made a name for himself with his catchy hooks and signature drawl. With a slew of successful albums, mixtapes, and collaborations under his belt, Project Pat's indelible influence on the genre can be felt in countless artists who have followed in his footsteps.

    More Project PatRight Arrow
  • Boosie Badazz
    23

    Boosie Badazz

    957 votes

    Hailing from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Torrence Hatch Jr., or Boosie Badazz, has made an indelible mark on Southern hip-hop with his heartfelt storytelling and captivating rhymes. Despite facing various legal issues and personal struggles throughout his career, Boosie remains a beloved figure in the rap community. His unparalleled resilience and raw honesty make him a standout among Southern rappers.

    More Boosie BadazzRight Arrow
  • Big K.R.I.T.
    24

    Big K.R.I.T.

    1,360 votes

    Since bursting onto the scene in the early 2010s, Mississippi-born Justin Scott, better known as Big K.R.I.T., has been a breath of fresh air in the Southern rap scene. His soulful production and thoughtful lyrics often pay homage to the South's rich musical history while staying rooted in contemporary sounds. As both a skilled producer and emcee, Big K.R.I.T.'s passion for his craft has cemented him as one of the most respected names in rap today.

    More Big K.R.I.T.Right Arrow
  • Denzel Curry
    25

    Denzel Curry

    305 votes

    Hailing from Carol City, Florida, Denzel Rae Don Curry has managed to carve out his own niche within Southern rap through his energetic, aggressive delivery and thought-provoking lyrics. As a leader of the "SoundCloud rap" generation, Curry has displayed a distinctive style that sets him apart from his contemporaries. His critically acclaimed albums, like "TA13OO" and "ZUU," showcase his growth as an artist and his commitment to pushing the envelope both musically and socially.

    More Denzel CurryRight Arrow
  • Project Pat & Three Six Mafia
    26

    Project Pat & Three Six Mafia

    397 votes

    When considering the impact of Memphis hip-hop on the Southern rap landscape, it's impossible to overlook the combined force of Project Pat and Three 6 Mafia. As collaborators and family, this collective has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre with their hypnotic beats and raw lyrics. With numerous hits and successful solo careers to their names, the influence of Project Pat and Three 6 Mafia on Southern rap remains as strong as ever.

  • Mystikal
    27

    Mystikal

    956 votes

    Born Michael Lawrence Tyler, New Orleans rapper Mystikal exploded onto the Southern rap scene in the late '90s with his distinctive raspy voice and high-energy performances. As a member of the No Limit Records family, Mystikal carved out a unique lane for himself with hits like "Danger (Been So Long)" and "Shake Ya Ass." Today, his lasting impact on the rap game can be heard in the music of countless artists who followed in his footsteps.

    More MystikalRight Arrow
  • T-Pain
    28

    T-Pain

    512 votes

    Faheem Rasheed Najm, better known as T-Pain, redefined the sound of Southern rap with his innovative use of Auto-Tune and catchy hooks. Hailing from Tallahassee, Florida, T-Pain's distinctive melodies have graced countless hit songs throughout the 2000s and beyond. As a Grammy-winning artist and influential figure in the music industry, T-Pain's contributions to hip-hop culture are truly significant.

    More T-PainRight Arrow
  • Kevin Gates
    29

    Kevin Gates

    669 votes

    With his unique blend of introspective lyrics and melodic soundscapes, Baton Rouge rapper Kevin Gates has managed to captivate fans and critics alike. Born Kevin Jerome Gilyard, the Southern emcee has pushed the boundaries of hip-hop with his candid storytelling about life, love, and personal growth. Gates' undeniable talent and emotional vulnerability continue to set him apart in a genre often known for its bravado.

    More Kevin GatesRight Arrow
  • Master P
    30

    Master P

    978 votes

    As a true pioneer of Southern hip-hop, Percy Robert Miller, aka Master P, is widely recognized for his role in putting No Limit Records on the map. Hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana, Master P's distinctive voice and entrepreneurial spirit paved the way for future generations of Southern rappers. As a successful artist, businessman, and mogul, Master P's impact on hip-hop culture is truly undeniable.

    More Master PRight Arrow