The Best Latin Rappers/Groups

Ranker Music
Updated May 8, 2024 530.4K views 54 items
Ranked By
40.0K votes
6.5K voters
4 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up all of your favorite Latin rappers.
Latest additions: Mare Advertencia Lirika, De la Ghetto, Arianna Puello
Most divisive: Pitbull
Over 6.5K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Latin Rappers/Groups

Over the past few decades, Latin rappers have moved from being a favorite of Latinos to achieving mainstream success. Latino hip hop emerged from the West Coast of the U.S. during the late 1980s and early 1990s and had a strong following (unsurprisingly) with Latinos in areas like Southern California. On the other side of the U.S., Latin rap emerged in Latino hotbeds like Miami and New York City. Like other rap genres, Latino hip hop lyrically took on topics that affected their lives. Over time, as mainstream Latin rap developed, the genre has moved towards party anthems with big beats and catchy hooks. No matter what you think of the early Spanglish rappers, today's Latin rappers are some of the biggest names in music, with some being among the greatest rappers alive.

So, who are the greatest Latino and Mexican rappers? Any list of Latino rappers has to include the likes of Cypress Hill, Immortal Technique, Big Pun, Fat Joe, Lil Rob, Daddy Yankee and Pitbull. These are some of the biggest names and best Latin rappers of all time, and with good reason. Their slick rhymes, strong fan bases and catchy tunes have made these Latin hip hop artists widely known across the globe. Latino rappers are widely popular not only among the Spanish speaking audience, but English fans as well.

This list answers the questions "who are the best Latin rappers of all time?" and "who is the greatest Latin rap 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 Latin rappers that you might've heard of.

  • Big Pun
    1
    1,266 votes

    A lyrical mastermind, this Bronx-born artist was the first Latino rapper to achieve platinum status, with his debut album Capital Punishment showcasing his unparalleled wordplay and intricate rhyme schemes. As a heavyweight in the rap game, both literally and figuratively, he opened doors for many Latino artists that followed, leaving an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape despite his untimely death at age 28.

  • Cypress Hill
    2
    1,169 votes

    This groundbreaking group is known for their blend of Latin-infused beats and gritty street narratives, which catapulted them to international stardom during the '90s. With their distinctive nasal delivery, they are considered one of the pioneers of West Coast hip-hop and have been influential in bringing bilingual lyrics into the mainstream. Their longevity as a group speaks to their enduring appeal and continued influence on up-and-coming artists.

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  • Hailing from Harlem, this Peruvian-American MC has built an underground following through his politically charged lyrics and storytelling prowess. A skilled lyricist with a penchant for tackling social issues in his music, he gained popularity through his raw mixtapes before releasing acclaimed albums like Revolutionary Vol. 1 and Revolutionary Vol. 2. His unapologetic approach to addressing controversial topics has earned him respect among hip-hop purists and fans alike.

  • B-Real
    4
    668 votes

    As one of the founding members of Cypress Hill, this rapper's unmistakable nasal delivery has become synonymous with the group's unique sound. With a career spanning over three decades, he's been an integral part in shaping the West Coast hip-hop scene and bringing Latin-infused beats to the forefront of popular culture. Outside of his work with Cypress Hill, he's also collaborated with numerous artists across various genres, showcasing his versatility and commitment to pushing boundaries.

  • Fat Joe
    5
    818 votes

    A key figure in East Coast hip-hop since the early '90s, this Puerto Rican rapper has consistently delivered hits throughout his career while also mentoring younger talents like Big Pun and Remy Ma. Known for his charismatic personality and larger-than-life presence on tracks, he's managed to stay relevant over time by adapting to changes in the musical landscape without losing sight of his roots in traditional New York rap. His collaborations with other prominent Latin artists have further solidified his status as a trailblazer in bridging the gap between hip-hop and Latin music.

  • This Houston-based rapper gained a loyal following in the late '90s and early 2000s thanks to his gritty street tales and smooth flow, which showcased his Mexican-American heritage. Despite legal troubles that have stalled his career, he remains an influential figure in the Southern hip-hop scene, with many citing him as an inspiration for their own musical pursuits. His ability to blend elements of traditional Mexican music with rap has helped pave the way for other Latino artists looking to break into the mainstream.

  • Calle 13
    7
    635 votes

    Hailing from Puerto Rico, this alternative hip-hop duo is known for their eclectic sound, blending reggaeton, electronic, and rock influences with politically charged lyrics that often challenge societal norms. Their innovative approach to music has garnered them numerous awards, including a record-breaking 21 Latin Grammy Awards throughout their career. As trailblazers in their genre, they've opened doors for other Latin artists seeking to break free from conventional expectations and push creative boundaries.

  • Daddy Yankee
    8
    805 votes

    Widely regarded as one of reggaeton's pioneers, this Puerto Rican artist helped bring the genre into the mainstream with his infectious hooks and unmistakable flow. His international success has made him a household name around the world while also serving as an ambassador for Latin music on a global scale. Known for his energetic performances and charismatic stage presence, he continues to be a major influence on younger artists looking to follow in his footsteps.

  • Tego Calderón
    9

    This Puerto Rican rapper is often credited with helping to popularize reggaeton during the early 2000s, fusing traditional Latin rhythms with hip-hop beats to create a unique sound that resonated with fans worldwide. Known for his socially conscious lyrics and distinctive baritone voice, he's earned critical acclaim for his ability to address important issues while still delivering catchy hooks and danceable beats. His influence can be heard in the music of many contemporary Latin artists who have followed in his footsteps.

  • Terror Squad
    10
    403 votes

    As an influential hip-hop collective hailing from the Bronx, this group brought together some of the most talented Latino rappers of their time, including Big Pun, Fat Joe, and Cuban Link. Their gritty street tales and intricate wordplay showcased the diverse talents within their ranks and helped solidify their status as one of the most formidable crews in East Coast hip-hop. Though they disbanded following Big Pun's death, their impact on the rap landscape remains undeniable.

  • Joell Ortiz
    11

    Joell Ortiz

    386 votes

    Brooklyn-born and raised, this Puerto Rican rapper has made a name for himself through his clever wordplay and razor-sharp lyricism, earning him respect among both fans and peers alike. As a member of the acclaimed supergroup Slaughterhouse alongside Royce da 5'9", Crooked I, and Joe Budden, he further showcased his undeniable talent and versatility as an MC. His continued success as a solo artist demonstrates his staying power in an ever-evolving hip-hop landscape.

  • Formed in Los Angeles during the early '90s, this trio quickly gained attention for their fusion of traditional Mexican music with West Coast hip-hop sensibilities. Their signature blend of mariachi horns and funky beats created an instantly recognizable sound that set them apart from other acts at the time. Though they never achieved mainstream success, their influence on Latin hip-hop can still be felt today.

  • Snow Tha Product
    13

    As a Mexican-American rapper hailing from California, she's built an impressive following through her rapid-fire flow, bilingual lyrics, and unapologetic attitude. Her ability to tackle both personal experiences and larger societal issues in her music has earned her respect among fans and fellow artists alike. As one of the few female rappers in the Latin hip-hop scene, she's proven that she can hold her own against her male counterparts while also breaking down barriers for other women looking to make their mark.

  • Nicky Jam
    14
    338 votes

    This Boston-born artist of Dominican and Puerto Rican descent has been a major player in the reggaeton scene since the late '90s, known for his sultry vocals and undeniable charisma on tracks. After experiencing a career resurgence in recent years, he's become one of the most recognizable faces in Latin urban music, collaborating with heavyweights like Enrique Iglesias and J Balvin. His ability to reinvent himself and stay relevant over time is a testament to his talent and perseverance.

  • Farruko
    15
    148 votes

    This Puerto Rican artist rose to prominence during the early 2010s with his infectious reggaeton hits and collaborations with other prominent Latin stars like J Balvin and Daddy Yankee. With his smooth delivery and ear for catchy hooks, he's managed to stay relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape while also branching out into different genres like trap and dancehall. His success has solidified him as one of the leading voices in contemporary Latin urban music.

  • Cuban Link
    16
    242 votes

    Born in Havana and raised in the Bronx, this rapper first gained attention as a member of the influential Terror Squad collective alongside Big Pun and Fat Joe. Known for his vivid storytelling and intricate rhyme schemes, he carved out a successful solo career following the group's disbandment. His ability to seamlessly blend English and Spanish lyrics has made him a standout in the world of Latin hip-hop.

  • Lil Rob
    17
    508 votes

    This San Diego-based rapper gained prominence during the late '90s and early 2000s with his smooth flow and catchy hooks that showcased his Chicano pride. As a prominent figure in the West Coast hip-hop scene, he's been influential in helping to shape the sound of Chicano rap while also collaborating with other notable Latin artists like MC Magic and Baby Bash. His continued success as an independent artist speaks to his dedication to his craft and loyal fan base.

  • As one of the first Mexican-American hip-hop acts to achieve mainstream success, this duo played an integral role in popularizing Chicano rap during the early '90s. Their laid-back flow and feel-good beats provided a fresh alternative to the gangsta rap that dominated the West Coast at the time, showcasing the diversity within the Latin hip-hop community. Though they never achieved the same level of commercial success as some contemporaries, their influence on future generations of Latino rappers cannot be denied.

  • Baby Bash
    19
    219 votes

    Born in California to a Mexican mother and Anglo father, this rapper first found success as part of the Latino Velvet collective before embarking on a successful solo career. Known for his infectious hooks and R&B-infused beats, he's managed to score numerous hits throughout his career while also collaborating with other prominent Latin artists like Frankie J and Pitbull. His ability to consistently deliver catchy tunes has made him a mainstay in both hip-hop and pop circles.

  • Chino XL
    20

    Chino XL

    181 votes

    As a skilled lyricist with a reputation for controversial punchlines, this Puerto Rican and African-American rapper has been a fixture in the underground hip-hop scene since the early '90s. Known for his battle-rap style and intricate wordplay, he's earned respect among fellow MCs and fans alike for his unapologetic approach to tackling provocative subject matter. His enduring presence in the rap game is a testament to his undeniable talent and commitment to pushing the boundaries of hip-hop.

  • Wisin y Yandel
    21

    This Puerto Rican duo has been a driving force in Latin urban music since the late '90s, blending reggaeton, hip-hop, and R&B elements to create a sound that's both infectious and innovative. Their energetic performances and catchy hooks have made them international stars while also helping to popularize reggaeton on a global scale. As pioneers in their genre, they've paved the way for countless other artists looking to make their mark in Latin music.

  • Fabolous
    22
    94 votes

    This Brooklyn-born rapper of Dominican descent burst onto the scene in the early 2000s with his witty punchlines and smooth delivery, quickly becoming a staple in East Coast hip-hop. Known for his clever wordplay and penchant for storytelling, he's managed to maintain a successful career spanning two decades while also collaborating with some of the biggest names in music. His influence on both hip-hop and R&B can be heard in the work of countless artists who have followed in his footsteps.

  • Dave East
    23
    94 votes

    Hailing from Harlem, this Dominican-American rapper is known for his gritty street tales and vivid storytelling, which have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. With his deep voice and smooth flow, he's been able to carve out a unique lane for himself within the hip-hop landscape while also collaborating with some of the biggest names in the game. His ability to seamlessly blend his Latino heritage with contemporary rap sensibilities has made him one of the most promising talents in modern hip-hop.

  • Chris Rivers
    24
    275 votes

    As the son of legendary rapper Big Pun, this Bronx-born artist has had big shoes to fill but has managed to make a name for himself through his intricate rhyme schemes and emotional storytelling. Drawing inspiration from his father's legacy, he's proven that he can hold his own as an MC while also paying homage to his Puerto Rican roots. His continued growth as an artist showcases not only his immense talent but also his dedication to carrying on the family tradition.

  • Vinnie Paz
    25

    Vinnie Paz

    154 votes

    With Italian and Colombian roots, this Philadelphia-based rapper first gained attention as part of the underground hip-hop group Jedi Mind Tricks before branching out into a successful solo career. Known for his aggressive delivery and hard-hitting lyrics, he's become a respected figure within the underground rap community while also collaborating with numerous artists across various genres. His ability to maintain his signature sound while also experimenting with different styles has helped solidify his status as a versatile and talented MC.

  • Mellow Man Ace
    26

    As one of the first Latino rappers to achieve mainstream success, this Cuban-American artist paved the way for future generations with his bilingual lyrics and infectious beats during the late '80s and early '90s. His unique blend of hip-hop and Latin influences set him apart from his contemporaries, showcasing the potential for crossover appeal within the genre. Though he may not be as well-known today, his impact on Latin hip-hop remains undeniable.

  • Sen Dog
    27
    112 votes

    As a founding member of Cypress Hill alongside B-Real, this Cuban-American rapper has played an integral role in shaping the group's signature sound over their three-decade career. Known for his deep voice and aggressive delivery, he's been influential in popularizing West Coast hip-hop infused with Latin elements. Outside of Cypress Hill, he's also been involved in various side projects, showcasing his versatility as an artist and dedication to his craft.

  • Pitbull
    28
    671 votes

    Born in Miami to Cuban parents, this rapper-turned-pop star has become an international sensation thanks to his chart-topping hits and charismatic stage presence. Known for his catchy hooks and ability to collaborate with artists across various genres, he's managed to transcend the boundaries of traditional hip-hop while also staying true to his Latin roots. As one of the most successful Latino artists in recent history, he's helped bring Latin music further into the mainstream spotlight.

  • Bad Bunny
    29
    82 votes

    This Puerto Rican artist has quickly become one of the biggest names in Latin trap music, known for his distinctive voice and eclectic style that blends reggaeton, hip-hop, and other influences. Since exploding onto the scene in 2017, he's collaborated with numerous heavyweights in both the Latin and mainstream music worlds while also breaking streaming records left and right. His meteoric rise to fame is a testament to his talent and ability to connect with fans around the globe.

  • J Balvin
    30
    53 votes

    This Colombian singer-songwriter has become one of the most successful Latin artists in recent years, known for his infectious reggaeton hits and collaborations with some of the biggest names in music. With his unique sense of style and undeniable charisma, he's managed to break barriers within the industry while also bringing Latin music further into the mainstream consciousness. His influence on contemporary Latin urban music is immense, inspiring countless other artists to follow in his footsteps.