The 65+ Best Alternative Rap Artists, Ranked

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Updated April 16, 2024 27.9K views 66 items
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Alternative hip hop is one of the most underrated rap subgenres. While hip hop and rap music has captured the ears of mainstream music listeners. alternative hip hop bands, which are outside of the mainstream, haven't sold as well as their pop rap contemporaries, but are just as important. Alternative hip hop artists are among the most celebrated in all of rap. The best alternative hip hop includes experimental beats, clever lyrics and have not conformed to the mainstream. The fusing of genres outside of the mainstream is what made alternative hip hop bands some of the most progressive in urban music, and helped the top alternative hip hop bands eventually achieve mainstream success.

That said, who are the best alternative hip hop bands and rappers? This list includes all alternative rap artists, including solo performers. So you'll see rappers like Andre 3000 and Big Boi on here separately, in addition to Outkast since they have had solo careers after Outkast disbanded. Kanye West, Gang Starr, A Tribe Called Quest, Jurassic 5 and the Beastie Boys are also considered among the most popular alternative hip hop bands and best alternative hip hop musicians. Their unique spin on rap music has made them beloved rappers and truly earned the title of alternative hip hop artists. 

So, who can truly be considered the top alternative hip hop bands. This list of alternative rappers takes into account all of the popular alternative hip hop bands and critically acclaimed ones as well. This list answers the questions "who are the best alternative hip hop bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest alternative rappers 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 alternative hip hop bands that you might've heard of. {#nodes}

Most divisive: Asheru
Over 800 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 65+ Best Alternative Rap Artists, Ranked
  • Outkast
    1

    Outkast

    171 votes
    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.
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  • André 3000
    2

    André 3000

    114 votes
    André Lauren Benjamin, better known as André 3000, is an influential figure in the realm of music who is known for his innovative lyrical approach. Born on May 27, 1975, in Atlanta, Georgia, André's creative journey began as one half of the Grammy-winning hip-hop duo OutKast, alongside Antwan Big Boi Patton. The pair, known for their unique blend of funk, soul, and hip hop, burst onto the scene in 1994 with their debut album, Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, and continued to push boundaries with subsequent releases like "Stankonia" and "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below," the latter earning them the 2004 Grammy Award for Album of the Year. However, André 3000's talents extend beyond the world of music. He has showcased his acting prowess in several television shows and films, including the leading role in the biographical film, Jimi: All Is by My Side, where he portrayed rock legend Jimi Hendrix. Additionally, he lent his voice to the animated series Class of 3000, which he also co-created, further demonstrating his artistic versatility. André's multifaceted career also encompasses fashion; he launched the clothing line Benjamin Bixby in 2008, a venture that reflected his eclectic and distinctive personal style. Despite his extensive list of accomplishments, André 3000 remains a figure shrouded in mystery, often choosing to stay out of the spotlight. His sporadic musical releases post-OutKast are treated as events, each one reminding listeners of his unparalleled lyrical prowess and innovative spirit. Despite his elusive nature, André's influence on music, fashion, and pop culture at large is undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire artists across various genres.
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  • Feloni TrakDiamondRecord.com
    3
    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.
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  • Tyler, the Creator
    4
    Tyler, the Creator, born as Tyler Gregory Okonma on March 6, 1991, is a remarkable figure in the world of music and fashion. Raised in Los Angeles, California, he emerged as a prolific rapper, songwriter, producer, director, and designer, exhibiting an unmatched versatility that has made him a global icon. Known for his innovative style and raw lyrical content, Tyler has carved out a unique space for himself in the entertainment industry. The foundation of his music career was laid in 2007 when he co-founded the alternative hip hop collective, 'Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All' (OFWGKTA). The group's audacious creativity and DIY ethos ignited a spark in the music scene that led to a new wave of alternative hip hop. Throughout his solo career, Tyler has released numerous albums, each marked with his distinct touch of experimental sounds and deeply personal narratives. His fifth studio album, Igor, won him a Grammy for Best Rap Album, solidifying his place in music history. Beyond music, Tyler has also made significant strides in the fashion industry. He launched his clothing line, Golf Wang, in 2011, which showcases his bold and colorful aesthetic. Additionally, he has been instrumental in the creation and production of TV shows, including the sketch comedy Loiter Squad and the animated series The Jellies. Tyler, the Creator's portfolio of work exhibits not only his artistic prowess but also his ability to push boundaries across mediums, making him a true multi-disciplinary artist.
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  • A Tribe Called Quest
    5
    A Tribe Called Quest was an American hip hop collective formed in 1985 and originally composed of MC and main producer Q-Tip, MC Phife Dawg, DJ and co-producer Ali Shaheed Muhammad, and MC Jarobi White, who left the group amicably in 1991. Later that year, the group released its jazz-influenced second album, The Low End Theory, regarded for helping shape alternative hip hop in the 1990s. Along with De La Soul, the group was a central part of the Native Tongues, enjoying the most commercial success out of all the groups to emerge from that collective. In 1998, the band broke up shortly before releasing its fifth album, The Love Movement, but in 2006, the group's original members reunited and toured the United States. In 2016, the group released its sixth and final album, We Got It from Here... Thank You 4 Your Service, which was still incomplete when Phife Dawg died suddenly in March 2016, and was completed by the other members after his death.The group is regarded as a pioneer of alternative hip hop music. John Bush of AllMusic called them "the most intelligent, artistic rap group during the 1990s." The Source gave the group's debut album, People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm, a perfect rating of five 'mics,' the first time the magazine gave out this rating. In 2005, A Tribe Called Quest received a Special Achievement Award at the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Awards in Atlanta. In 2007, the group was formally honored at the 4th VH1 Hip Hop Honors.
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  • Gorillaz
    6

    Gorillaz

    124 votes
    The Gorillaz, an iconic virtual band, was established in 1998 in England. This genre-defying music powerhouse was the brainchild of Damon Albarn, renowned musician from the famous band Blur, and Jamie Hewlett, a highly respected comic book artist known for his work on Tank Girl. Breaking free from traditional music group paradigms, Gorillaz is a virtual band composed of four animated characters: 2-D (vocals, keyboards), Murdoc Niccals (bass guitar), Noodle (guitar, keyboards), and Russel Hobbs (drums and percussion). Gorillaz burst onto the music scene with their eponymous debut album in 2001, which included hits like "Clint Eastwood" and "19-2000". The band's unique blend of diverse genres such as hip-hop, rock, electronic, and pop music, along with engaging storytelling through their animated avatars, quickly gained them worldwide popularity. The band's second studio album Demon Days, released in 2005, further solidified their status in the music industry with chart-topping songs like "Feel Good Inc." and "Dare". In the course of their music journey, Gorillaz have never shied away from innovation or collaboration. Their albums often feature an impressive roster of guest artists ranging from legends like Lou Reed and Bobby Womack to contemporary stars like Snoop Dogg and Vince Staples. With numerous awards under their belt, including a Grammy for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals, and two MTV Video Music Awards, Gorillaz have left their mark on the global music landscape, proving that a band can exist and thrive beyond the realms of physical reality.
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  • Beastie Boys
    7

    Beastie Boys

    116 votes
    The Beastie Boys, a legendary hip-hop trio, were influential in integrating punk rock and rap music. The group consisted of Adam "MCA" Yauch, Michael "Mike D" Diamond, and Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz. Their journey began in New York City in 1981, originally as a hardcore punk band before they ventured into the world of hip-hop. Their first major-label album, Licensed to Ill, was released by Def Jam Recordings in 1986. This album, which was a commercial success, earned them recognition as the first white rap group. It was also the first rap LP to top the Billboard album chart. Their unique blend of punk rock and rap, along with their vibrant lyrics often filled with humor, satire, and cultural references, set them apart from their contemporaries. However, Beastie Boys' legacy extends beyond their musical innovation. They are also remembered for their activism. Adam Yauch was particularly instrumental in organizing concerts to support Tibetan independence. Despite Yauch's untimely death in 2012, the remaining members have continued to honor his memory through charitable activities. The Beastie Boys, with their groundbreaking music and commitment to social causes, have left an indelible mark on the landscape of popular music.
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  • Fugees
    8

    Fugees

    103 votes
    Fugees (; sometimes The Fugees) was an American hip hop group who rose to fame in the mid-1990s. Their repertoire included elements of hip hop, soul and Caribbean music, particularly reggae. The members of the group were rapper/singer/producer Wyclef Jean, rapper/singer/producer Lauryn Hill, and rapper/producer Pras Michel. Deriving their name from a shortening of the word "refugees", Jean and Michel are Haitian while Hill is American. Before disbanding in 1997, the group recorded two albums, one of which, The Score (1996), was a multi-Platinum and Grammy-winning success and contains their hit single "Killing Me Softly". Hill and Jean each went on to successful solo recording careers; Michel focused on soundtrack recordings and acting, though he found commercial success with his song "Ghetto Supastar". In 2007, MTV ranked them the ninth greatest hip-hop group of all time.
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  • MF Doom
    9

    MF Doom

    65 votes
    Daniel Dumile (born 1971), better known by his stage name MF Doom (stylized in all caps), is a US-based English rapper, songwriter, and record producer from Long Island, New York. Best known for his "super villain" stage persona and unique lyrics, Dumile has taken on several stage names in his career. He has appeared in several collaborative projects such as Madvillain (with Madlib), Danger Doom (with Danger Mouse), Doomstarks (with Ghostface Killah), JJ Doom (with Jneiro Jarel), NehruvianDoom (with Bishop Nehru), and Czarface Meets Metal Face (with Czarface).
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  • Mos Def
    10

    Mos Def

    93 votes
    Born as Dante Terrell Smith on December 11, 1973, Mos Def is a versatile figure in the world of entertainment. This Brooklyn native has made his mark not just as a rapper but also an actor, comedian, and political activist. His success story is one that resonates with many from humble beginnings, as he was born and raised in a socially unstable environment. His parents separated when he was young, and he was introduced to theater by his mother, who worked as a part-time actress. This early exposure to the arts sparked a lifelong passion for creativity and performance. Mos Def's music career took flight in the late 1990s when he formed the rap group Black Star with Talib Kweli. Their debut album Mos Def & Talib Kweli Are Black Star made waves in the hip-hop scene, highlighting both his lyrical prowess and his commitment to addressing social issues through his music. His solo album Black on Both Sides, released in 1999, further catapulted him into fame. The album received critical acclaim and is considered a classic in the hip-hop genre. Alongside his music career, Mos Def pursued acting, appearing in several notable films and television series. He made his silver screen debut in God Bless the Child, and over the years has graced both big and small screens, starring in films such as The Italian Job, 16 Blocks, and The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. His acting talent has not gone unrecognized. He received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for his role in the HBO film Something the Lord Made. Away from the limelight, Mos Def is known for his activism, particularly concerning social and political issues affecting the African American community. His multifaceted career exemplifies a seamless blend of art and activism, setting him apart as a unique voice in the entertainment industry.
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  • Kid Cudi
    11

    Kid Cudi

    109 votes
    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.
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  • Lupe Fiasco
    12

    Lupe Fiasco

    100 votes
    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.
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  • De La Soul
    13

    De La Soul

    75 votes
    De La Soul is an American hip hop trio formed in 1987 in the Amityville area of Long Island, New York. They are best known for their eclectic sampling, quirky lyrics, and their contributions to the evolution of the jazz rap and alternative hip hop subgenres. The members are Posdnuos, Trugoy and Maseo. The three formed the group in high school and caught the attention of producer Prince Paul with a demo tape of the song "Plug Tunin'". With its playful wordplay, innovative sampling, and witty skits, the band's debut album, 3 Feet High and Rising, has been called "a hip hop masterpiece."The album was the band's biggest commercial success to date, with subsequent ones selling progressively less, despite receiving high praise from critics. They were influential in the early stages of rapper/actor Mos Def's career, and are a core part of the Spitkicker collective. They are the second longest standing Native Tongues group, after the Jungle Brothers. In 2006, the group won a Grammy for their collaboration with Gorillaz on the single "Feel Good Inc."In early 2015, they announced plans to release a Kickstarter-funded upcoming 9th studio album And the Anonymous Nobody in September 2015; it was released on August 26, 2016. The album tracks are said to be the result of multiple improvised jam sessions. The album also features guest appearances from artists such as Damon Albarn, Little Dragon, David Byrne, 2 Chainz and Snoop Dogg.
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  • The Roots
    14

    The Roots

    92 votes
    The Roots are an American hip hop band, formed in 1987 by Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter and Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States. The Roots currently serve as the house band on NBC's The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, having served in the same role on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon from 2009–2014. The Roots are known for a jazzy and eclectic approach to hip-hop featuring live musical instruments and the group's work has consistently been met with critical acclaim. ThoughtCo ranked the band #7 on its list of the 25 Best Hip-Hop Groups of All-Time, calling them "Hip-hop's first legitimate band." Although the band no longer tours extensively due to their Tonight Show obligations, their live shows are frequently regarded as the best in the genre.In addition to the band's music, several members of the Roots are involved in side projects, including record production, acting, and regularly serving as guests on other musician's albums and live shows.
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  • Odd Future
    15

    Odd Future

    75 votes
    Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All, often abbreviated to OFWGKTA or simply Odd Future, is an American hip hop collective from Los Angeles, California. The collective is led by rapper/producer Tyler, The Creator, and includes rappers Hodgy Beats, Earl Sweatshirt, Domo Genesis, and Mike G, singer-songwriter/rapper Frank Ocean, producers Left Brain, Syd Tha Kyd, Matt Martians, Hal Williams and other non-musical members, notably Jasper Dolphin, Taco Bennett, L-Boy and Lucas Vercetti. There are multiple smaller groups inside the collective: MellowHype, The Internet, The Jet Age of Tomorrow, EarlWolf, and MellowHigh.
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  • Big Boi
    16

    Big Boi

    68 votes
    Antwan André Patton (born February 1, 1975), better known by his stage name Big Boi, is an American rapper, songwriter, actor and record producer, best known for being a member of American hip hop duo Outkast alongside André 3000. His work in the duo has produced six studio albums. Big Boi's solo debut Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty was released in July 2010 to respectable sales and critical acclaim. He released his second studio album, Vicious Lies and Dangerous Rumors in 2012. Boomiverse, his third studio album, was released in June 2017.
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  • Run the Jewels
    17
    Run the Jewels is an American hip hop duo, formed by rappers El-P and Killer Mike in 2013. That same year, they released their self-titled first album titled Run the Jewels, as a free digital download.
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  • Talib Kweli
    18

    Talib Kweli

    62 votes
    Talib Kweli Greene (; born October 3, 1975) is an American rapper, entrepreneur, and activist. Kweli earned recognition early on through his collaboration with fellow Brooklyn rapper Mos Def, when they formed the group Black Star. Kweli's musical career continued with solo success including collaborations with producers and rappers Kanye West, Just Blaze, and Pharrell Williams. His most recent solo album is titled Radio Silence, released in 2017. In 2011, Kweli founded his own record label, Javotti Media.
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  • The Pharcyde
    19

    The Pharcyde

    68 votes
    The Pharcyde (pronounced "far side") is an American alternative hip hop group, formed in 1989, from South Central Los Angeles. The original four members of the group are Imani (Emandu Wilcox), Slimkid3 (Trevant Hardson), Bootie Brown (Romye Robinson), and Fatlip (Derrick Stewart). DJ Mark Luv was the group's first disc jockey (DJ), followed by producer J-Swift and then J Dilla. The group is perhaps best known for the hit singles "Drop", "Passin' Me By" and "Runnin'", as well as their first album, Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde (1992). The group continues to tour and record, both collaboratively and in solo projects—the most recent being Hardson's collaborative EP with the award-winning DJ Nu-Mark (of Jurassic 5) released in 2014 on Delicious Vinyl.
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  • N*E*R*D
    20

    N*E*R*D

    67 votes
    N.E.R.D (stylized as N*E*R*D, an acronym of No-one Ever Really Dies) is an American hip hop and rock band, formed in Virginia Beach, Virginia in 1999. Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo were signed by Teddy Riley to Virgin Records as a duo, The Neptunes. After producing songs for several artists throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, the production duo formed the band with Shay Haley as a side project of The Neptunes in 1999. N.E.R.D's debut album, In Search Of..., sold 603,000 copies in the United States and was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). It was also awarded the second annual Shortlist Music Prize. The band's second album, Fly or Die, sold 412,000 copies in the United States, but shipped at least 500,000 units, certifying it Gold.In 2005, N.E.R.D ended their contract with Virgin and disbanded. Three years later, the band reunited under Star Trak Entertainment, a subsidiary of Interscope Records established by Williams and Hugo. The band's third album, Seeing Sounds, released in 2008, sold just under 80,000 copies in its first week. The album was followed by Nothing, which was released in 2010. N.E.R.D then began advertising in October 2017 after not saying much since their 2010 album, which made fans speculate that the group had a new album or project in the works. It was later revealed the album would be entitled No One Ever Really Dies, explaining their initial advertisements and confirming the rumors of fans. The group then in early November of the same year released the first single for the album, "Lemon". The album was also announced to have collaborations with many popular artists, including Kendrick Lamar, André 3000, M.I.A, Future, Wale, Gucci Mane, Rihanna, and Ed Sheeran, and was released on December 15, 2017.
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  • J Dilla
    21

    J Dilla

    68 votes
    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.
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  • Digable Planets
    22
    Digable Planets () is a Grammy award-winning hip hop trio formed in 1987, in Brooklyn, New York. The trio is composed of rappers Ishmael "Butterfly" Butler (from Seattle), Mariana "Ladybug Mecca" Vieira (from Silver Spring, Maryland), and Craig "Doodlebug" Irving (from Philadelphia). The group is notable for their contributions to the subgenres of classic hip hop and alternative hip hop.
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  • Common
    23

    Common

    72 votes
    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!.
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  • Arrested Development
    24
    Arrested Development is an American alternative hip hop group that formed in Atlanta in 1988. It was founded by Speech and his ex-best friend Headliner as a positive, Afrocentric alternative to the gangsta rap popular in the late 1980s.
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  • Gang Starr
    25

    Gang Starr

    60 votes
    Gang Starr was an influential East Coast hip hop duo that consisted of the late MC Guru and the DJ/producer DJ Premier.
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  • M.I.A.
    26

    M.I.A.

    81 votes
    Mathangi "Maya" Arulpragasam, popularly known as M.I.A., is a multifaceted talent who has left indelible marks on the world of music, art, and activism. Born in 1975 in London, she spent her early years in Sri Lanka where her father was a political activist. The family later returned to the UK as refugees, which significantly influenced M.I.A's perspective on life and art. M.I.A.'s music career launched in the early 2000s with singles such as "Galang" and "Sunshowers", both of which earned critical acclaim for their distinctive fusion of eclectic beats and conscientious lyrics. Her debut album, Arular, named after her father, was released in 2005 and became a global sensation, establishing M.I.A. as a bold and original voice in the music industry. She continued to challenge norms and push boundaries with subsequent albums like Kala, Maya, Matangi, and AIM. Her single "Paper Planes" from the album Kala became a worldwide hit, featuring in Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire, and earned her a Grammy nomination. Beyond music, M.I.A. is well-known for her distinct visual aesthetic and socio-political activism. Her self-directed music videos, album artwork, and installations have been exhibited in prestigious art institutions, reflecting her unique artistic vision. Meanwhile, her outspokenness on issues such as refugee rights, censorship, and war have often stirred controversy but also sparked important conversations. M.I.A.'s enduring influence and impact extend far beyond entertainment, making her a truly singular figure in contemporary culture.
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  • Jurassic 5
    27

    Jurassic 5

    63 votes
    Jurassic 5 is an American alternative hip hop group formed in 1991 by members of two previous groups (Rebels of Rhythm and Unity Committee): rappers Charles Stewart (Chali 2na), Dante Givens (Akil), Courtenay Henderson (Soup aka Zaakir), Marc Stuart (Marc 7); and disc jockeys Mark Potsic (DJ Nu-Mark) and Lucas Macfadden (Cut Chemist). The six piece crew that was formed, came out of the Los Angeles venue Good Life. The group broke up in 2007, shortly after releasing their fourth LP Feedback, citing "musical differences," but returned to the stage in 2013 and released a new track in 2014. The members have continued to release music, the most recent of which is Nu-Mark's 2014 EP with Pharcyde member Slimkid3 (released on Delicious Vinyl).
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  • KRS-One
    28

    KRS-One

    66 votes
    KRS-One, born as Lawrence Parker on August 20, 1965, in the South Bronx of New York City, is an influential figure in the world of hip-hop. Known as The Teacha, he has been instrumental in shaping the genre's landscape and has made significant contributions to its development since his entry into the music scene in the mid-1980s. Raised amidst the cultural melting pot that was the Bronx, KRS-One was inspired by the birth of hip-hop, leading him to adopt a moniker that stands for Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everyone. KRS-One's career trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. He first emerged as a member of the hip-hop group Boogie Down Productions (BDP), which gained national prominence with their debut album 'Criminal Minded' in 1987. The album was hailed as a seminal piece of work in the genre, combining hard-hitting lyrics with innovative beats. After the tragic death of DJ Scott La Rock, a fellow BDP member, KRS-One took it upon himself to continue the group's legacy, subsequently releasing several successful albums. His solo career, initiated in the 1990s, further cemented his status as a hip-hop icon. Albums such as 'Return of the Boom Bap' and 'KRS-One' showcased his lyrical prowess and unique sound, earning him acclaim from critics and fans alike. In addition to his music, KRS-One has been a vocal advocate for social issues, using his platform to address topics such as violence, poverty, and racism. His activism has transcended beyond his songs, leading him to establish the Stop the Violence Movement in response to the increasing violence in the hip-hop community. KRS-One's commitment to education is also noteworthy. He has imparted lectures at universities, written books, and even proposed the idea of Hip-Hop Appreciation Week to promote the cultural significance of the genre. Thus, KRS-One's contributions extend beyond music, making him a significant figure in the realm of hip-hop. His enduring influence continues to reverberate throughout the industry, inspiring generations of artists and fans alike.
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  • Q-Tip
    29

    Q-Tip

    63 votes
    Q-Tip, born as Jonathan Davis on April 10, 1970, in Harlem, New York, is a multi-talented figure known for his distinctive and influential contributions to the world of music. Initially rising to prominence as a member of the groundbreaking hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest, Q-Tip's innovative approach to music has left an indelible impact on the genre. His birth name later changed to Kamaal Ibn John Fareed following his conversion to Islam in the mid-1990s. As part of A Tribe Called Quest, Q-Tip was integral in pioneering a unique style of hip-hop that blended elements from jazz and alternative music. The group, formed in 1985, included fellow members Phife Dawg, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, and Jarobi White. Together, they released several critically acclaimed albums including People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm, The Low End Theory, and Midnight Marauders. These works are regarded as seminal pieces in the evolution of hip-hop, setting the stage for Q-Tip's later solo endeavors. Post-A Tribe Called Quest, Q-Tip embarked on a successful solo career, releasing his debut album Amplified in 1999. The album was a commercial success, earning him a Grammy nomination. He continued to push musical boundaries with subsequent albums like The Renaissance and Kamaal/The Abstract, showcasing his eclectic style and lyricism. Beyond his vocal contributions, Q-Tip is renowned for his production skills, working with a diverse range of artists from Kanye West to Kendrick Lamar.
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  • Madlib
    30

    Madlib

    12 votes

    Madlib is a hip-hop instrumentalist whose album Shades of Blue on Blue Note Records, successfully blended classic jazz rhythms with modern hip-hop beats. Since that time, Madlib continues to create plenty of jazzy hip-hop grooves.