The Best Midwestern Rappers

Ranker Hip Hop
Updated May 6, 2024 43.6K views 71 items
Ranked By
38.0K votes
3.5K voters
16 reranks
Voting Rules
Only famous rappers who were born in or raised in the Midwest.
Latest additions: MC Breed, Bow Wow
Most divisive: Tech N9ne
Over 3.5K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Midwestern Rappers

Midwest hip hop artists list, with photos, ranked best to worst by votes. List of good midwest rappers includes a filter so you can sort by the groups’s label and what albums they've put out. This list of the top midwest hip hop bands in the world includes all musicians who have released recordings that have gotten distribution, and is an up-to-date list. Midwest hip hop groups and artists are shown below along with any additional genres in which their music belongs. If available, you can also see information about where all midwest hip hop bands on this list got started. These are truly the greatest midwest hip hop bands of all time, since the most famous midwest hip hop artists ever are listed, and the order is decided by actual fans of the best midwest rap music.

You can click on the midwest hip hop band names to see more information about that particular notable midwest hip hop group. If they're near the top of the best midwest hip hop artist list, though, then they should have at least some information available. All the top midwest hip hop bands named on the list also have discographies on their pages if you click on the midwest rappers' names themselves.

Artists on this list include Kanye West and Lupe Fiasco. Make sure to rock the vote by upvoting the greatest artists on this list (according to you). Always vote for things like Bone Thugs-N-Harmony or The Cool Kids if you like them.

All important, significant and iconic names in midwest rap music history deserve your votes, so make sure to choose wisely. You can only vote once on this list.

The list includes all new midwest hip hop bands, and if there are any missing on the list, you can always add them yourself. Just make sure they aren't already on the list and check your spelling, because this is already an accurate compilation of the best examples of midwest hip hop, as well as a good place to start if you're asking yourself, or friends, exactly how to get into midwest rap music. Especially since the bands at the top of the list will at the very least be the best choices if you're looking for a list of good midwest hip hop bands with which to start out. No point in listening to them if they aren't actually good or even half-way decent midwest hip hop bands.

This list answers the questions "who are the best midwest hip hop bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest midwest hip hop musician ever?"

If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the band's music instead of just voting for the most popular midwest hip hop bands that you might've heard of, but not really listened to closely enough to cast an informed vote.

After you've voted for the best artists, share this on Facebook, Twitter and more to see what your friends think of the ranking. 

  • Eminem
    1

    Eminem

    1,550 votes

    Born and raised in St. Joseph, Missouri

    Eminem, born as Marshall Bruce Mathers III, is a globally recognized figure in the music industry known for his raw talent and controversial lyrics. Born on October 17, 1972, in St. Joseph Missouri, Eminem's early life was marked by hardship and struggle. Raised primarily by his mother in Detroit, Michigan after a tumultuous relationship with his father who left when he was still an infant, Eminem found solace and expression through rap music. Rising to prominence in the late 1990s with his debut album Infinite, Eminem quickly gained notoriety for his provocative themes and explicit language. His unique style of storytelling combined with intricate wordplay won him critical acclaim despite stirring controversy among conservative audiences. His second studio album The Slim Shady LP launched him into superstardom earning him both commercial success and critical recognition including a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. In addition to being one of the best-selling solo artists of all time with over 220 million records sold worldwide; Eminem has also made significant contributions to the film industry too. He starred in the semi-autobiographic movie 8 Mile, where he portrayed a struggling rapper akin to himself during his early days in Detroit which earned him an Academy award for Best Original Song – Lose Yourself. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his personal life including battles with addiction; Eminem continues to be regarded as one of the most influential figures within hip-hop culture.
    More EminemRight Arrow
  • Kanye West
    2

    Kanye West

    1,369 votes

    Raised in Chicago, Illinois

    Kanye West, born in Atlanta and raised in Chicago, is a globally recognized figure who has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His innovative approaches to music production, blending elements of different genres with his distinct style of rap, have earned him widespread acclaim as well as commercial success. Kanye's journey began with his debut album "The College Dropout" which was released in 2004 and quickly garnered attention due to its introspective themes and fresh sound. Beyond his musical prowess, Kanye West is also known for challenging norms and sparking conversations across various fields - from fashion design to politics. He founded the creative content company DONDA that operates in diverse sectors such as music production, fashion design, and architecture, among others. On top of this multi-faceted career profile is Yeezy – a collaboration between Kanye West and Adidas – that revolutionized sneaker culture worldwide. Despite facing numerous controversies over the years related to his outspokenness or unpredictable behavior at times; these experiences have only added layers to his persona making him one of the most intriguing figures of our time. Beyond just being an artist or entrepreneur; he embodies complexity, often walking on tightropes yet always managing to leave an impact wherever he steps foot.
    More Kanye WestRight Arrow
  • votes needed!
    NEW TO THE LIST
    • NEW
      #71
      MC Breed
      0 votes
    • NEW
      #60
      Bow Wow
      4 votes
  • Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
    3

    Formed in Cleveland, Ohio

    Bone Thugs-n-Harmony is an American rap group. Consists of rappers Bizzy Bone, Wish Bone, Layzie Bone, Krayzie Bone, and Flesh-n-Bone. American West Coast rapper Eazy-E signed Bone Thugs-N-Harmony to Ruthless Records in late 1993, when Bone Thugs debuted with their EP Creepin on ah Come Up. The EP included their breakout hit single "Thuggish Ruggish Bone". In 1995, the group released its second album, E. 1999 Eternal, which included hits "1st of tha Month" and "East 1999". A tribute to then-recently deceased Eazy-E, titled "Tha Crossroads", won a Grammy award in 1997. The Art of War, the group's third album, was also released in 1997. Bone Thugs is the only group that has worked with 2Pac, Notorious B.I.G., Eazy-E, and Big Pun while they were still alive. The editors of About.com ranked them #12 on their list of the "25 Best Rap Groups of All Time", and MTV called them "the most melodic hip-hop group of all time."In 2000, BTNHResurrection reached platinum in one month, while 2002's Thug World Order received more moderate sales and promotion, going gold and peaking at #3 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. After that album, the group went on hiatus from their label and released their sixth studio album, Thug Stories, independently in 2006. In 2007 they had another major-label release, Strength & Loyalty, on Swizz Beatz's label Full Surface Records. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony "officially" returned with their 2010 album Uni5: The World's Enemy, released by their own record label, BTNH Worldwide, with distribution by Warner Bros. Due to conflicts within the group, longtime members Krayzie Bone and Wish Bone officially left the group in April 2011 to work with their independent label, The Life Entertainment. They would later return, officially re-unifying the group. In August 2013, however, Layzie Bone announced that he would be stepping aside to work more on his solo career. In the same month, BTNH signed with eOne Entertainment (formerly known as Koch Records), who they had previously partnered with to release 2006's Thug Stories. Layzie Bone has since re-united with the group. On April 28, 2018, the entire group performed a show in Biloxi, Mississippi along with Juvenile and Nelly. On June 1, 2018, Bone Thugs reunited for a show at the Wonderland Ballroom in Revere, Massachusetts. On June 22, 2018, the group also performed a show in Kansas City, Missouri at the CrossroadsKC with longtime friend Twista. All five members were present. All five members also performed at Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View CA on October 13, 2018 with Too Short & Ice Cube on the How the West Was Won tour, and on Friday October 19 at the Stockton Arena in Stockton, CA with JJ Fad, Tag Team, Lighter Shade of Brown, Digital Underground, and DJ Quik. Bone Thugs are still currently on tour and have 12 concerts scheduled 2018-2019.
    More Bone Thugs-N-HarmonyRight Arrow
  • Feloni
    4

    Feloni

    676 votes

    Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan

    Trish Best, known by her stage name Feloni, is an African-American rapper from Detroit, Michigan. Her coming out as lesbian was featured on MTV's LOGO documentary show Coming Out Stories.
    More FeloniRight Arrow
  • Twista
    5

    Twista

    728 votes

    Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois

    Carl Terrell Mitchell (born November 27, 1973), better known by his stage name Twista (formerly Tung Twista), is an American rapper. He is best known for his chopper style of rapping and for once holding the title of fastest rapper in the world according to Guinness World Records in 1992, being able to pronounce 598 syllables in 55 seconds.In 1997, after appearing on Do or Die's hit single "Po Pimp", produced by The Legendary Traxster, Twista signed with Big Beat and Atlantic Records, where he released his third album Adrenaline Rush and formed the group Speedknot Mobstaz, in 1998. His 2004 album Kamikaze reached the top of the US Billboard 200 album chart, after the success of the Billboard Hot 100 #1 single "Slow Jamz".
    More TwistaRight Arrow
  • Nelly
    6

    Nelly

    626 votes

    Raised in St. Louis, Missouri

    Cornell Iral Haynes Jr., known professionally as Nelly, is an iconic figure in the world of hip hop. Born on November 2, 1974, in Austin, Texas, he was raised in St. Louis, Missouri, where he achieved fame with his music group, St. Lunatics, before embarking on a successful solo career. A Grammy award-winning artist, Nelly's unique blend of rap with pop sensibilities has earned him a significant place in the annals of music history. Nelly's debut album, Country Grammar, released in 2000, skyrocketed him to fame. The album peaked at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, eventually selling over 10 million copies worldwide and earning diamond status. His follow-up albums, Nellyville and Suit, also achieved commercial success, spawning hit singles like "Hot in Herre," "Dilemma," and "Over and Over." These albums cemented Nelly's reputation as a multi-faceted artist, capable of producing party anthems and poignant ballads alike. Beyond music, Nelly has also made significant strides in acting and philanthropy. He starred in the 2005 film The Longest Yard alongside Adam Sandler and has made appearances in several television shows. In terms of philanthropy, Nelly established the Jes Us 4 Jackie campaign, named after his sister who passed away from leukemia. This campaign aims to educate African Americans and other minorities about the need for bone marrow donors.
    More NellyRight Arrow
  • Kid Cudi
    7

    Kid Cudi

    773 votes

    Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio

    Kid Cudi, born Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi on January 30, 1984, is an acclaimed American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor recognized for his distinctive fusion of hip-hop and electronic music. Emerging from Cleveland, Ohio, Cudi's breakthrough came in 2008 with his seminal mixtape, A Kid Named Cudi. The body of work caught the attention of Kanye West, who signed him to his GOOD Music label, marking a significant milestone in Cudi's career. Cudi's debut album, Man on the Moon: The End of Day, released in 2009, was met with widespread critical acclaim. The LP, featuring hits like "Day 'n' Nite" and "Pursuit of Happiness", was lauded for its introspective lyrics and innovative sound. It set the stage for Cudi's creative exploration, which saw him delve into various genres, including alternative rock with his side project WZRD. His bold experimentation and candid lyricism about mental health have earned him a devoted following and influenced a new generation of artists. In recent years Cudi has expanded his career to include acting. He's released multiple albums and mixtapes, each showcasing his evolution as an artist. As an actor, Cudi has appeared in films like Need for Speed and TV series such as How to Make It in America. His influence extends beyond music, impacting fashion, film, and mental health advocacy. His enduring legacy cements his position as a vital figure in contemporary pop culture.
    More Kid CudiRight Arrow
  • Krayzie Bone
    8

    Krayzie Bone

    176 votes

    Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio

    Anthony Henderson (born June 17, 1973), better known as Krayzie Bone, is an American rapper, singer, producer, and entrepreneur. He is a member of the rap group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony.
    More Krayzie BoneRight Arrow
  • Chance The Rapper
    9

    Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois

    Chancelor Bennett (born April 16, 1993), better known by his stage name Chance the Rapper, is an American hip hop recording artist from the Chatham neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. In 2013, he began to gain major recognition following the release of his second mixtape Acid Rap. Chance is also a member of the Chicago collective SAVEMONEY with frequent collaborator Vic Mensa and lead vocalist for the band The Social Experiment.
    More Chance The RapperRight Arrow
  • Common
    10

    Common

    705 votes

    Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois

    Lonnie Corant Jaman Shuka Rashid Lynn, widely recognized by his stage name Common, is a distinguished figure in the world of entertainment, boasting a multifaceted career as a rapper, actor, and writer. Born on March 13, 1972, in Chicago, Illinois, he began his musical journey in the early 1990s with the release of his debut album Can I Borrow a Dollar?. However, it was his third album, One Day It'll All Make Sense, which marked a significant turning point in his career, propelling him into the mainstream music industry. Common's lyrical prowess and unique style blend elements of jazz and soul, creating a distinct sound that sets him apart from his contemporaries. His music often reflects his deep-rooted commitment to social justice and activism. This dedication has earned him numerous accolades, including several Grammy Awards. Notably, his song "Glory", a collaboration with John Legend for the film Selma, won both the Academy Award and Golden Globe for Best Original Song, solidifying his status as a celebrated artist. Beyond his musical endeavors, Common has carved out a successful acting career, appearing in a range of films and television series. Some of his notable roles include parts in American Gangster, Selma, and John Wick: Chapter 2. Moreover, he has authored several books, including his memoir One Day It'll All Make Sense and the children's book I Like Myself!.
    More CommonRight Arrow
  • Big Sean
    11

    Big Sean

    866 votes

    Raised in Detroit, Michigan

    Born Sean Michael Leonard Anderson on March 25, 1988, in Santa Monica, California and raised in Detroit, Big Sean made a name for himself in the music industry as a talented rapper and songwriter. From an early age, Anderson immersed himself in the world of rhyme and rhythm, a passion that was fueled by his mother's steady influence. As a teenager, he participated in weekly rap battles at a local radio station, which became a stepping stone to his successful career. While still in high school, Big Sean scored his big break when Kanye West visited the radio station where he was competing. Displaying a level of audacity matching his talent, Anderson freestyled for West, leading to a record deal with Kanye's G.O.O.D Music label in 2007. His debut album, Finally Famous, released in 2011, climbed to number three on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying his place in the competitive music scene. He is known for hits like "Blessings" and "I Don't F**k With You," both of which showcased his lyrical prowess and unique flow. In addition to his successful music career, Big Sean has also been recognized for his philanthropic efforts. In 2012, he established the Sean Anderson Foundation, which provides resources for youth in underserved communities and assists them in improving their educational and health outcomes. He has consistently used his platform to champion causes close to his heart, proving that he is not only a force in the music industry but also a significant contributor to social change. Despite the challenges and setbacks he faced along the way, Big Sean's journey continues to inspire many, demonstrating his resilience and dedication to his craft.
    More Big SeanRight Arrow
  • Lupe Fiasco
    12

    Lupe Fiasco

    673 votes

    Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois

    Wasalu Muhammad Jaco (born February 16, 1982), better known by his stage name Lupe Fiasco ( LOO-pay), is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and activist. He rose to fame in 2006 following the success of his debut album, Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor. He also performs as the frontman of rock band Japanese Cartoon under his real name. As an entrepreneur, Fiasco is the chief executive officer of 1st and 15th Entertainment. Raised in Chicago, Jaco developed an interest in hip hop after initially disliking the genre for its use of vulgarity and misogyny. After adopting the name Lupe Fiasco and recording songs in his father's basement, 19-year-old Fiasco joined a group called Da Pak. The group disbanded shortly after its inception, and Fiasco soon met rapper Jay-Z who helped him sign a record deal with Atlantic Records. In September 2006, Fiasco released his debut album Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor on the label, which received three Grammy nominations. He released his second album, Lupe Fiasco's The Cool, in December 2007. The lead single "Superstar" became his first top 40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. After a two-year delay, Lasers was released in March 2011 to mixed reviews; however, it became his first album to debut at number one on the Billboard 200. His latest album, Drogas Wave, was released in September 2018. In addition to music, Fiasco has pursued other business ventures, including fashion. He runs two clothing lines, Righteous Kung-Fu and Trilly & Truly; he has designed sneakers for Reebok. He has been involved with charitable activities, including the Summit on the Summit expedition, and in 2010 he recorded a benefit single for victims of the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Fiasco is also noted for his anti-establishment views, which he has expressed in both interviews and his music.
    More Lupe FiascoRight Arrow
  • Layzie Bone
    13

    Layzie Bone

    136 votes

    Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio

    Steven Howse (born September 23, 1974) is a rapper known primarily for being a member of the group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. He has also gone by the names L-Burna and The #1 Assassin. He is the younger brother of fellow group member Flesh-N-Bone & cousin of group member Wish Bone. He is also a member of the rap group Bone Brothers and CEO of the record label Harmony Howse Entertainment.
    More Layzie BoneRight Arrow
  • Proof
    14

    Proof

    811 votes

    Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan

    Proof, born as DeShaun Dupree Holton, was known for his exemplary rapping skills and passionate commitment to Detroit's music scene. He was born on October 2, 1973, in Detroit, Michigan, USA, where he cultivated a deep love for music, nurtured by the vibrant cultural environment of his hometown. From an early age, Proof showed a marked affinity for rhythm and poetry, which later solidified into a successful career in the rap industry. Proof's journey in music began when he founded "D12," a six-member Detroit-based rap group, with his close friend and Grammy-winning artist Eminem, among others. The group gained rapid popularity and later signed with Eminem's Shady Records. Proof also had a solo career, releasing his debut album I Miss The Hip Hop Shop in 2004 and the second one, Searching for Jerry Garcia, in 2005. Not just a performer, Proof stepped behind the scenes as well, co-producing Eminem's debut film, 8 Mile. His contributions to the music industry extend beyond his own discography; Proof is credited with fostering local talents by hosting freestyle battles in Detroit, providing a platform for many emerging artists. However, Proof's life was tragically cut short on April 11, 2006. His untimely death was a significant loss to the music world and particularly, the Detroit music scene that he helped shape. Despite his life being abruptly halted, Proof's legacy continues to resonate within the corridors of hip hop. He is remembered not only as a talented rapper but also as a mentor, friend, and an ardent advocate for Detroit's music scene.
    More ProofRight Arrow
  • Tech N9ne
    15

    Tech N9ne

    805 votes

    Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri

    Tech N9ne, whose real name is Aaron Dontez Yates, paved his way to stardom with a unique fusion of hardcore rap and rock. Born on November 8, 1971, in Kansas City, Missouri, he developed a profound interest in music from an early age. The moniker Tech N9ne was bestowed upon him due to his fast-rapping style, akin to the speed of a TEC-9 semi-automatic handgun. His journey wasn't easy; it was marked by struggles, trials, and tribulations that ultimately shaped his music career. In 1999, Tech N9ne co-founded the record label Strange Music with Travis O'Guin, setting a milestone in independent hip-hop. The label allowed him to retain control over his music, permitting him to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional hip-hop. His albums, such as Anghellic (2001), Absolute Power (2002), and Everready (2006), showcased his distinct style and lyrical prowess, earning him a dedicated fanbase. His 2006 album Everready proved particularly successful, reaching number 50 on Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. Despite the lack of mainstream recognition, Tech N9ne's influence on the genre cannot be overstated. He has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Three 6 Mafia, Kendrick Lamar, and Eminem, demonstrating his versatility. His work has also garnered attention from industry awards, securing several nominations for the Independent Music Awards. Tech N9ne's remarkable career serves as a testament to his talent, proving that with passion and determination, one can leave a significant mark on the music industry, regardless of mainstream acceptance or approval.
    More Tech N9neRight Arrow
  • J Dilla
    16

    J Dilla

    479 votes

    Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan

    James Dewitt Yancey (February 7, 1974 – February 10, 2006), better known by the stage names J Dilla and Jay Dee, was an American record producer and rapper who emerged in the mid-1990s underground hip hop scene in Detroit, Michigan, as one third of the acclaimed music group Slum Village. His obituary at NPR stated that he "was one of the music industry's most influential hip-hop artists," working with notable acts including A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, Busta Rhymes, Erykah Badu, The Roots, The Pharcyde, Madlib and Common.
    More J DillaRight Arrow
  • Flesh-N-Bone
    17

    Flesh-N-Bone

    113 votes

    Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio

    Stanley Howse, better known as Flesh-n-Bone (born June 10, 1973), is an American rapper known as a member of the rap group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. He is the older brother of Layzie Bone, Stew Deez, Jaimac, and cousin of Wish Bone.
  • Wish Bone
    18

    Wish Bone

    115 votes

    Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio

    Wish Bone is an American rapper and member of the Cleveland rap group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony.
  • Chief Keef
    19

    Chief Keef

    443 votes

    Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois

    Keith Farrelle Cozart (born August 15, 1995), better known by his stage name Chief Keef, is an American rapper and record producer. Keef's music first became popular among high school students from Chicago's South Side during his teen years in the early 2010s. In 2012, Keef's popular street single "I Don't Like" was remixed by rapper Kanye West, reaching the Billboard Top 10 and further lifting Keef's profile. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Chief Keef would continue self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned Bang 3 to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody," developed into its own project.
    More Chief KeefRight Arrow
  • Royce da 5'9"
    20

    Royce da 5'9"

    706 votes

    Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan

    Ryan Daniel Montgomery (born July 5, 1977), better known by his stage name Royce da 5'9", is an American rapper and songwriter. He is best known for his longtime association with Eminem as well as his solo career, recording primarily with producers Carlos "6 July" Broady and DJ Premier, as well as ghostwriting for the likes of Diddy and Dr. Dre. Royce is currently one half of the rap duo Bad Meets Evil with Eminem and one half of the hip hop duo PRhyme with DJ Premier. He was also one quarter of the hip hop group Slaughterhouse with Joe Budden, Joell Ortiz and KXNG CROOKED. The editors of About.com ranked him No. 31 on their list of the "Top 50 MCs of Our Time (1987–2007)."
    More Royce da 5'9"Right Arrow
  • Bad Meets Evil
    21

    Formed in Detroit, Michigan

    Bad Meets Evil is an American hip hop duo consisting of rappers Royce da 5'9" and Eminem. Bad Meets Evil was formed in 1997 thanks to the duo's mutual friend, Proof. It was formed after Royce featured on the song "Bad Meets Evil" for Eminem's major label debut The Slim Shady LP. Their discography consists of one extended play and four singles. In 1999, the duo released a double non-album single, "Nuttin' to Do" and "Scary Movies"; the former peaked at 36 on the Hot Rap Songs chart, while the latter peaked at 63 on the UK Singles Chart, and was featured on the soundtrack of the 2000 horror comedy parody film Scary Movie. The duo broke up after a feud between Royce and the members of Eminem's group D12. The feud ended when Proof, a D12 member and Eminem's best friend—as well as a friend of Royce's—was murdered in April 2006. After Royce's super-group Slaughterhouse signed to the Eminem-founded label Shady Records, a reunion of Bad Meets Evil followed with the extended play Hell: The Sequel, which reached number one on the US Billboard 200 and was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America and the Australian Recording Industry Association.
    More Bad Meets EvilRight Arrow
  • Lil Durk
    22

    Lil Durk

    332 votes

    Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois

    Durk Derrick Banks, better known by his stage name Lil Durk is an American rapper from Chicago, Illinois. He is signed to the major record label Def Jam as well as French Montana's Coke Boys imprint. He is the lead member and founder of his own collective and record label, Only the Family. In 2011, Banks would start taking music seriously. After plans to sign with Chief Keef and French Montana's labels fell through, he considered rapping as "a full-time career" after the releases of his two singles, "Sneak Dissin'" and "I'ma Hitta", each of which received generally positive feedback. On October 19, 2012, Durk released his third mixtape, "Life Ain't No Joke". As of September 22, 2015, the mixtape has been downloaded over 216,000 times on DatPiff. In December 2012, Durk released the track, called "L's Anthem", which was remixed, featuring French Montana, as a re-release. As of July 27, 2018, Durk has announced that he signed to Alamo Records & Interscope Records.
    More Lil DurkRight Arrow
  • D12
    23

    D12

    704 votes

    Formed in Detroit, Michigan

    D12, an initialism for the Dirty Dozen, was an American hip hop group from Detroit, Michigan. D12 has had chart-topping albums in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. D12 was formed in 1996, and achieved mainstream success after Eminem rose to international fame. The original lineup consisted of the members and their alter egos; this is where Eminem's Slim Shady persona originated. D12 released the album Devil's Night in 2001 and D12 World in 2004, spawning numerous hits such as "Fight Music", "Purple Pills", "My Band", "How Come" and "Shit on You" throughout that period. Since 2006, Eminem's hiatus and the death of Proof resulted in them being less active in subsequent years. On August 31, 2018, Eminem released a song titled "Stepping Stone" on his tenth studio album Kamikaze (2018) announcing that D12 has officially disbanded.
    More D12Right Arrow
  • Freddie Gibbs
    24

    Freddie Gibbs

    430 votes

    Born and raised in Gary Indiana

    Fredrick Jamel Tipton (born June 14, 1982), better known by his stage name Freddie Gibbs is an American rapper. After initially being signed to Interscope Records in 2006, Gibbs recorded his debut studio album under the label. However, he was eventually dropped and the album was cancelled. Gibbs later signed with Young Jeezy's CTE World and released a number of mixtapes through the label, including 2012's highly acclaimed Baby Face Killa. After leaving CTE in 2013, Gibbs formed his own label, ESGN and released his debut studio album of the same name in June 2013. Since then, he has gone on to release four solo studio albums, as well as two collaborative albums with Madlib as MadGibbs and nine mixtapes in total.
    More Freddie GibbsRight Arrow
  • Chingy
    25

    Chingy

    95 votes

    Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri

    Howard Bailey Jr. (Born March 9, 1980), better known by his stage name Chingy, is an American rapper, singer, producer, and actor. Chingy grew up in St. Louis, Missouri and began rapping in his late teens. He toured as an opening act with Nelly in the summer of 2002 and then became a protégé of Ludacris, who signed him to his newly formed Disturbing Tha Peace (DTP) record label. The rapper's 2003 summer debut single, "Right Thurr", put him on the musical map as a good-time rapper who specialized in catchy, club-friendly beats and simplistic lyrics delivered in a sing-song, nursery rhyme style. Chingy's 2003 debut album, Jackpot, sold two million copies, thanks to the boost from "Right Thurr". A second album, Powerballin', was released in 2004 to mixed reviews, and his 2006 release Hoodstar spawned the hit singles "Pullin' Me Back" and "Dem Jeans." He released Hate It or Love It in 2007, under DTP records. The album's lead single is "Fly Like Me", featuring Amerie. A studio album entitled Success & Failure was released in 2010. In 2018, he made his official debut as a record producer which he produced his own latest single “Sparks Fly” which debuted on July 4, 2018.
    More ChingyRight Arrow
  • Bizzy Bone
    26

    Bizzy Bone

    481 votes

    Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio

    Bryon Anthony McCane II (born September 12, 1976), better known by his stage name Bizzy Bone, AKA Lil' Ripsta, is an American rapper, singer and the youngest member of the Cleveland rap group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony.
    More Bizzy BoneRight Arrow
  • Da Brat
    27

    Da Brat

    455 votes

    Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois

    Shawntae Harris (born April 14, 1974), better known by her stage name Da Brat, is an American rapper and actress from Chicago, IL. Beginning her career in 1992, her debut album Funkdafied (1994) sold one million copies, making her the first female solo rap act to receive a platinum certification, and the second overall female rap act (solo or group) after Salt-N-Pepa. Brat has received two Grammy Award nominations. Some of her most successful songs/features include, "I Think They Like Me", "Funkdafied" and "Loverboy."
    More Da BratRight Arrow
  • Murphy Lee
    28

    Murphy Lee

    72 votes

    Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri

    Torhi Harper (born December 18, 1983), better known by his stage name Murphy Lee, is an American rapper, best known as a member of the hip hop group St. Lunatics. Lee is also the chief executive of his own label, U C Me Entertainment.
  • Fredo Santana
    29

    Fredo Santana

    100 votes

    Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois

    Derrick Coleman (born July 4, 1990 – January 19, 2018), known professionally as Fredo Santana, was an American rapper from Chicago, Illinois. He is the older cousin of Chicago rapper Chief Keef and is generally known amongst fans for his trap music as well as his facial tattoos including the cross on his forehead. He was co-CEO of Chief Keef's record label Glory Boyz Entertainment and has also started his own record label Savage Squad Records. His debut studio album Trappin' Ain't Dead was released on November 20, 2013 via Savage Squad.
    More Fredo SantanaRight Arrow
  • Eyedea
    30

    Eyedea

    116 votes

    Born and raised in Saint Paul, Minnesota

    Micheal David Larsen (November 9, 1981 – October 16, 2010), better known by his stage name Eyedea, was an American musician, rapper and poet. He was a freestyle battle champion and songwriter from Saint Paul, Minnesota.Larsen had appeared as a solo artist under the pseudonym Oliver Hart, and as the MC half of the duo Eyedea & Abilities (along with longtime friend and collaborator DJ Abilities). He was first signed under Slug's independent hip-hop label Rhymesayers Entertainment before founding his own record label Crushkill Recordings.
    More EyedeaRight Arrow