The Best Freestyle Music Groups/Artists

Coley Reed
Updated May 15, 2024 70.2K views 48 items
Ranked By
5.9K votes
1.1K voters

Rising to prominence in the mid-1980s, freestyle music features many qualities that are associated with electronic dance music and dance-pop. Also nicknamed Latin hip hop, the best freestyle artists hit the mainstream and have managed to have a few top-40 hits. However, for the most part, people who love freestyle use freestyle music to breakdance to. Thus, the best freestyle artists have their music closely associated with modern hip hop as well due to sampling. Freestyle remains popular in New York City and though it isn't the force it once was, the best freestyle artists are still beloved by their fans.

So, that said, who are the best freestyle artists? Any list of freestyle musicians has to include the names Stevie B., Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam, TKA, Brenda K. Starr, John Benitez and Stacey Q. If you're familiar with old school freestyle music and are a huge fan, then you should know which artists to vote for. Freestyle singers may encapsulate a particular period in music history, but their music still lives on in dance music. If not for the embracing of this type of electro music, dance music may not have been as big as it was. For that, they can thank the best freestyle artists.

It's up to you to determine which freestyle artists are the best. This list answers the questions "who are the best freestyle music bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest freestyle music musician ever?" If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the band's music (albums and songs) instead of just voting for the most popular freestyle music bands that you might've heard of. 

Most divisive: Lina Santiago
Over 1.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Freestyle Music Groups/Artists
  • The Cover Girls
    1

    As trailblazers in the freestyle music scene, The Cover Girls combined stunning vocal harmonies with infectious dance beats, captivating a generation of fans. This all-female trio from the Bronx, New York, achieved massive success throughout the late 80s and early 90s, as their unique fusion of pop, R&B, and Latin influences resonated with a diverse audience. The Cover Girls' enduring influence on the genre speaks to their unyielding passion for creating unforgettable music.

  • George LaMond
    2

    George LaMond

    214 votes

    Growing up in the Bronx, George LaMond was surrounded by music from an early age, eventually fusing his love for R&B and Latin music into his signature freestyle sound. Bursting onto the scene with his debut single, "Bad of the Heart," he quickly became a staple on both dance charts and radio stations. Throughout his career, LaMond has consistently pushed the boundaries of freestyle music, leaving a lasting impact on the genre and earning his place among the greats.

  • Exposé
    3
    240 votes

    With their powerful vocal harmonies and infectious dance beats, Exposé quickly captured the hearts of freestyle music lovers in the 1980s. It's no wonder that their debut album, Exposure, was certified triple platinum by the RIAA. The Miami-based quartet consistently produced chart-topping hits throughout their career, showcasing their unique blend of sultry vocals and contagious energy. Their unwavering dedication to crafting unforgettable melodies cements their status as one of the leading freestyle music acts in history.

  • Stevie B.
    4
    302 votes

    From heartfelt ballads to high-energy dance tracks, Stevie B. has a gift for creating freestyle anthems that resonate with fans across generations. Hailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, his distinctively smooth voice and exceptional songwriting skills catapulted him to international fame during the late 80s and 90s. Stevie B. remains a beloved figure in the genre due in part to his undeniable charisma, which continues to shine through in live performances to this day. His immense contribution to freestyle music ensures his place among the greats.

  • Revolutionizing the freestyle music scene, Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam burst onto the scene with an eclectic mix of pop, hip-hop, and R&B influences. Hailing from New York City, this talented trio spearheaded by Lisa Velez showcased their distinctive style and raw emotion through a string of memorable hits, capturing the essence of urban life and love. Collaborating with prolific producer Full Force, they crafted a sound that resonated with fans and solidified their position as trailblazers in the genre.

  • TKA
    6
    268 votes

    Oozing charisma and talent, TKA is undoubtedly one of the most influential freestyle music acts to come out of New York City. Comprised of three talented vocalists, their signature sound of sultry harmonies and pulsating dance beats was an instant success among fans. Their chemistry resulted in a string of chart-topping hits, cementing their status as pioneers in the genre. TKA's undeniable magnetism continues to captivate audiences, solidifying their legacy in freestyle music.

  • Sweet Sensation
    7

    Sweet Sensation's irresistible blend of soulful vocals and infectious dance rhythms solidified their status as one of the most beloved freestyle acts in history. This all-female trio from New York City burst onto the scene with a fresh sound that melded R&B, pop, and Latin influences, catapulting them to stardom. Their dedication to creating music that resonates with fans and evokes emotion has firmly established Sweet Sensation's place in the freestyle music pantheon.

  • Shannon
    8
    187 votes

    The unmistakable voice behind the iconic hit "Let the Music Play," Shannon is a true freestyle music legend. Her sultry, commanding vocals paired with innovative electronic production defined the sound of dance music in the 80s. Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, her resilient spirit propelled her to continue making music and influencing generations of artists. Shannon's pioneering contributions to freestyle music make her an enduring and beloved figure in the genre.

  • Rising to prominence in the early 90s, Lisette Melendez possesses a raw, emotive voice that captivates listeners and places her among the best in freestyle music. Born in East Harlem, New York, her fusion of traditional Latin sounds with the infectious energy of dance music resulted in a unique sound that resonated with fans worldwide. Melendez's passionate performances and undeniable talent make her a powerful force in the genre.

  • Judy Torres
    10
    100 votes

    Affectionately known as the "Queen of Freestyle," Judy Torres has an unmistakable presence and vocal prowess that sets her apart from her contemporaries. Hailing from the Bronx, New York, her emotive vocal style and uplifting lyrics have made her a favorite among freestyle music enthusiasts. As an advocate for the genre, her commitment to its growth and preservation has cemented her status as a true icon in the world of freestyle music.

  • noel
    11

    noel

    98 votes

    Known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Noel Pagan emerged as one of the leading freestyle artists during the late 80s. Born in the Bronx, his passion for music was evident early on, eventually leading him to bring his distinct sound to the world of freestyle. Noel's innovative combination of soul and dance beats proved to be a winning formula, garnering critical acclaim and legions of devoted fans. His lasting impact on the genre is a testament to his immense talent and dedication to his craft.

  • Taylor Dayne
    12
    130 votes

    With a booming voice and commanding stage presence, Taylor Dayne quickly became a freestyle music sensation during the 80s. Born in New York, her powerful vocals and ability to fuse pop, soul, and freestyle elements earned her a spot among the genre's elite. Throughout her career, Dayne has secured multiple chart-topping hits, solidifying her status as a true icon within the world of freestyle music.

  • Brenda K. Starr
    13

    The incredible vocal talent of Brenda K. Starr propelled her to stardom as a key figure in the freestyle music scene. Born in New York City to a musical family, her impassioned performances and unique fusion of Latin, pop, and dance elements quickly captured the attention of fans and critics alike. With a career spanning over three decades, Starr's dedication to her craft and undeniable star quality have firmly established her as one of the genre's most beloved figures.

  • Corina
    14
    105 votes

    Combining captivating beats and sultry vocals, Corina Katt Ayala emerged as a key player in the freestyle music scene during the late 80s and early 90s. A native of Manhattan, her unique sound fused elements of dance, pop, and R&B, resulting in a string of memorable hits. Throughout her career, Corina has remained a dedicated advocate for the genre, ensuring its place in the hearts of music lovers around the world.

  • Collage
    15

    Collage

    87 votes

    As major contributors to the freestyle music scene, the group Collage has been wowing fans since the early 90s with their infectious melodies and powerful performances. Founded in California, their harmonious blend of dance, pop, and R&B elements has resonated with fans worldwide and solidified their place in the genre. With a string of chart-topping hits and a dedicated fanbase, Collage's lasting impact on freestyle music is undeniable.

  • Breaking barriers as the first Filipino-American artist to find mainstream success in freestyle music, Jocelyn Enriquez's powerful vocals and captivating stage presence have made her a fan favorite. Raised in California's Bay Area, her innovative blend of pop, dance, and R&B influences struck a chord with audiences across the globe. Enriquez's trailblazing spirit and unyielding passion for her craft have solidified her status as a preeminent figure in the world of freestyle music.

  • Company B.
    17
    79 votes

    With their pulsating beats and impeccable harmonies, Company B. quickly became a freestyle music favorite during the late 80s. Comprised of three talented vocalists from Miami, the all-female trio brought a fresh and innovative sound to the genre, capturing fans' attention across the globe. Company B.'s enduring influence and trailblazing spirit have solidified their place in the annals of freestyle music.

  • Rockell
    18
    101 votes

    Boasting a powerhouse voice and a unique fusion of pop, dance, and R&B influences, Rockell has become a standout figure in the freestyle music scene. Hailing from Staten Island, New York, her incredible vocal talent and emotive performances have earned her legions of devoted fans. Rockell's commitment to creating captivating music that resonates with listeners cements her status as a true icon in the world of freestyle music.

  • Stacey Q
    19
    84 votes

    As one of freestyle music's most flamboyant figures, Stacey Q's enigmatic persona and infectious tunes have made her a beloved icon in the genre. Born in California, her playful blend of pop, dance, and electronic elements captured the imagination of fans throughout the 80s and 90s. With multiple chart-topping hits under her belt, Stacey Q's indelible impact on freestyle music continues to inspire both fans and fellow musicians alike.

  • La India
    20
    109 votes

    Dubbed the "Princess of Salsa," La India's powerful voice and inimitable stage presence quickly made her a force to be reckoned with in the freestyle music scene. Born in Puerto Rico and raised in the Bronx, she infused her love for Latin rhythms with elements of pop and dance music, capturing the attention of fans around the world. La India's immense talent and unwavering commitment to her craft have firmly established her as one of the greats within the genre.

  • With a unique fusion of synth-pop, electronic, and dance elements, Information Society emerged as a dominant force in the freestyle music scene during the 80s and 90s. Originally formed in Minneapolis, the band's eclectic sound and mesmerizing live performances quickly captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Their contributions to the evolution of freestyle music have left an indelible mark on the genre, cementing their status as true innovators.

  • Nocera
    22
    75 votes

    Combining sultry vocals and infectious dance rhythms, Nocera has secured her place as a standout talent in the world of freestyle music. Born in Italy and raised in Brooklyn, her unique blend of European and urban influences created a sound that struck a chord with fans and critics alike. Throughout her career, Nocera has remained dedicated to her craft, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.

  • Alisha
    23
    68 votes

    Boasting powerful vocals and an undeniable stage presence, Alisha Ann Itkin, known simply as Alisha, made her mark on the freestyle music scene during the late 80s. A native of New York, her catchy tunes and pop-infused sound resonated with fans around the world. Alisha's unwavering devotion to her craft and the genre ensures her lasting legacy in the world of freestyle music.

  • Nu Shooz
    24
    69 votes

    As pioneers of the freestyle music movement, Nu Shooz brought an innovative blend of funk, R&B, and infectious dance beats to the forefront of the genre. Hailing from Portland, Oregon, the husband-and-wife duo of John Smith and Valerie Day crafted captivating melodies that resonated with fans across the globe. Their enduring impact on freestyle music is a testament to their passion for creating catchy tunes and pushing the boundaries of the genre.

  • With her soulful vocals and mesmerizing stage presence, Perri "Pebbles" Reid quickly became a beloved icon in the freestyle music scene during the late 80s. A native of Oakland, California, her innovative blend of R&B, pop, and dance influences captivated audiences around the world. As the founder of the girl group TLC, Pebbles' impact on both freestyle and popular music remains undeniable.

  • Pajama Party
    26

    Pajama Party

    55 votes

    Oozing charm and charisma, the all-female trio Pajama Party quickly captured the hearts of fans in the freestyle music scene. Hailing from New York City, their playful blend of pop, R&B, and dance elements sparked a devoted following and a string of hit singles. Pajama Party's unwavering passion for crafting unforgettable tunes and memorable performances has secured their place as a beloved freestyle music act.

  • Tony Moran
    27
    52 votes

    As one of the most sought-after producers and remixers in freestyle music, Tony Moran's impressive body of work is a testament to his passion and talent. Born in Brooklyn, Moran has been instrumental in shaping the sound of the genre, collaborating with countless artists to create iconic tracks. His innovative approach to music production and his keen ear for captivating melodies have solidified his place among the greats in freestyle music.

  • Jaya
    28
    46 votes

    With her powerhouse vocals and dynamic stage presence, Jaya has become a true freestyle music sensation. Born in the Philippines and raised in the United States, her distinctive blend of pop, R&B, and dance elements has garnered her legions of fans worldwide. Jaya's immense talent and commitment to her craft have solidified her status as a preeminent figure in the world of freestyle music.

  • Dino
    29
    44 votes

    Emerging as a major player in the freestyle music scene during the late 80s, Dino's velvety voice and undeniable charm made him an instant fan favorite. Born in Hawaii, his eclectic mix of pop, R&B, and Latin influences resonated with audiences across the globe. Dino's passion for creating memorable music and captivating live performances has cemented his legacy as a freestyle music icon.

  • Planet Patrol
    30

    As pioneers of the electro-funk sound, Planet Patrol carved out a unique place for themselves within the freestyle music landscape. The Boston-based group's innovative fusion of electronic beats and R&B-infused vocals proved to be a winning formula, resonating with fans and critics alike. Planet Patrol's trailblazing contributions to the genre have firmly established their legacy in the annals of freestyle music history.