The 25+ Most Underrated Rappers Of 2019, Ranked
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1.8K voters
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Voting Rules
Vote up the current rappers you think deserve more recognition.
Rappers like Drake, Lil Nas X, and Post Malone have spent plenty of time dominating the charts. But what about all the underrated rappers killing it in the shadows?
They might not have the spotlight, but that doesn’t mean underrated hip hop artists like Rico Nasty, AZ, and Stefflon Don aren’t worthy of praise for releasing fire albums and song collaborations, as well as heading out on worldwide tours.
Other underrated 2019 rappers include Supa bwe, NF, and Hopsin.
Who do you think are the most underrated rappers of 2019? Vote up the best underrated rappers on this list, and if we missed any of your favorite hip hop talents, don’t forget to add them!
Most divisive: Kobe Bryant
Over 1.8K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 25+ Most Underrated Rappers Of 2019, Ranked
- 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).
- 2Nathan John Feuerstein (born March 30, 1991), known by his stage name NF, is an American rapper, artist and songwriter, who has charted in both the Christian hip hop and mainstream hip hop markets. He released an extended play in 2014 with Capitol CMG, NF, which was his breakthrough release on the Billboard charts. He has released three studio albums: Mansion in 2015, Therapy Session in 2016 and Perception, released October 6, 2017.
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Royce da 5'9"
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)." - 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.
- Gary Maurice "Joyner" Lucas, Jr. (born August 17, 1988) is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, poet, and actor from Worcester, Massachusetts. Lucas gained widespread exposure and critical acclaim after the release of his single "Ross Capicchioni" in 2015. In June 2017, he released his fourth mixtape, 508-507-2209, which was his first on a major label. On November 28, 2017, Lucas released his single "I'm Not Racist", onto his YouTube account which very quickly went viral and gained critical acclaim. The video was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Music Video at the 61st Grammy Awards, but lost to Childish Gambino's "This Is America". Lucas was formerly signed to Atlantic Records, until he announced his departure from the label in December 2018.
- Tariq Luqmaan Trotter (born October 3, 1971), better known as Black Thought, is an American rapper and the lead MC of the Philadelphia-based hip hop group The Roots, as well as an occasional actor. Black Thought, who co-founded The Roots with drummer Questlove (Ahmir Thompson), is widely lauded for his live performance skills, continuous multisyllabic rhyme schemes, complex lyricism, double entendres, and politically aware lyrics. With The Roots, he is a singer and rapper on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, frequently playing games with Fallon and his guests.
- Marcus Jamal Hopson (born July 18, 1985), known professionally as Hopsin, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, music video director and actor from Los Angeles, California. In 2007, he was signed to Ruthless Records, and had founded his own record label, Funk Volume, in 2009. He would then go on to found another record label, Undercover Prodigy, in 2016. Hopsin has released five studio albums, Gazing at the Moonlight through Ruthless Records, Raw, Knock Madness and Pound Syndrome along with the collaborative project Haywire with SwizZz through Funk Volume and No Shame. He is well known for his use of white colored eye contacts in music videos, performances, and interviews.
- 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.
- 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.
- Born on August 23, 1978, and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, NBA legend Kobe Bryant was the son of former NBA player Joe Bryant. Kobe's love for basketball was evident from a young age and his early introduction to the sport led him on a path that would eventually make him one of the most celebrated athletes in history. Bryant's professional career began straight out of high school when he was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in 1996. However, he was immediately traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he spent his entire 20-year career. Throughout his tenure, Bryant showcased unrivaled dedication, discipline, and skill, earning him numerous accolades. Among his many achievements include five NBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, and four All-Star MVP Awards. He also held the title of NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2008. Off the court, Bryant was known for his contributions to various philanthropic causes. He established the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation, which aims to improve the lives of youth and families in need. In addition, his creative pursuits were recognized when he won an Academy Award for his animated short film Dear Basketball. Tragically, Bryant's life was cut short in a helicopter crash in January 2020, but his influence continues to inspire generations of athletes and fans around the world.
- 11Durk 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.
- 12Anthony Cruz (born March 9, 1972), better known as AZ, is an American rapper born in Brooklyn, New York. He is known for being a longtime and frequent music partner of Nas, and also a member of hip-hop group The Firm alongside Nas, Foxy Brown, Cormega and Nature. In a countdown of the 10 Most Underappreciated Rappers—Most Underrated Rappers of All Time, the editors of About.com listed AZ as #1 on the list. He was also included on About.com's list of the Top 50 MCs of Our Time (1987–2007), where he was described as "arguably the most underrated lyricist ever." He is of African-American and Dominican descent. AZ first became known by appearing on Nas's landmark 1994 album Illmatic on the song "Life's a Bitch", as well as featuring vocals on the opening track The Genesis. AZ signed with EMI, and soon released his debut album Doe Or Die in 1995 to critical acclaim. The album's lead single, "Sugar Hill", became AZ's major commercial success as a solo artist, reaching #25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and achieving Gold status. AZ's EMI contract was transferred to sister label Noo Trybe/Virgin Records when the EMI Label Group was shut down. In 1997, AZ and Nas appeared in a Sprite commercial. Also in 1997 the group The Firm with AZ, Nas, Nature, and Foxy Brown, released their only album as a group, The Album. The album featured production from well known producers such as Dr. Dre and the Trackmasters and generated much hype. The group disbanded after just this one album. In 1998 AZ released his second solo album, Pieces of a Man. The album fared well but did not chart quite as well as his debut and did not feature a crossover single like "Sugar Hill". The same year AZ made a cameo appearance in the movie Belly starring Nas, DMX, and Method Man. After this album's release, AZ signed with Motown/Universal Records and released 9 Lives. In 2002, he released Aziatic. A single from the album, "The Essence," (featuring Nas) was nominated for the 2003 Grammy Awards for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group. In 2004 AZ was planning on releasing his would-be 4th studio album, Final Call, however, it was eventually scrapped due to heavy leaking and released as Final Call (The Lost Tapes) in 2008. He released his 5th and 6th studio albums A.W.O.L. and The Format in 2005 and 2006, respectively. In 2015, AZ self-published and released a book titled Jewels, Gems & Treasures. The release got the proper respect and sales that lead AZ to prep on shooting a mini movie based on the book to be released late 2017. Also in 2016 AZ teamed up with B.E.T. to release his 20-year anniversary documentary narrated by Rakim; which included Nas, Raekwon, Foxy Brown, Pete Rock, Premier and others.
- 13Michael Wayne Atha (born December 30, 1979), better known by his stage name Yelawolf, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. Born and raised in Gadsden, Alabama, Atha embarked on his career in 2005, releasing independent solo material from then until 2010; he released one extended play (EP) and four mixtapes. It was not until 2010's Trunk Muzik EP that Yelawolf started to gain mainstream attention. The same year would see Yelawolf sign a record deal with Interscope Records. His first release on a major label would be a somewhat reworked Trunk Muzik, titled Trunk Muzik 0-60 which shared six tracks from Trunk Muzik. In January 2011, Yelawolf signed a recording deal with Eminem's record label, Shady Records, and released his second studio album, Radioactive on November 21, 2011. The album debuted at number 27 on the Billboard 200. Yelawolf released a sequel to his breakthrough mixtape Trunk Muzik, titled Trunk Muzik Returns on March 14, 2013. His third album, Love Story, was released on April 21, 2015. His fourth album, Trial by Fire, was released on October 27, 2017. His fifth album, expected to be his last under Shady Records, Trunk Muzik III, was released on March 29, 2019.
- Maria-Cecilia Simone Kelly (born May 7, 1997), known professionally as Rico Nasty, is an American rapper and record producer. Originating her career from Maryland, Kelly and was exposed to rap music at a very young age. Kelly released two mixtapes in 2016:The Rico Story and Sugar Trap. Both tapes gained her notable attention from the media and the general public. In June 2018, Kelly signed to Atlantic Records after releasing her fourth mixtape, Nasty.
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Beanie Sigel
Dwight Equan Grant (born March 6, 1974), better known by his stage name Beanie Sigel, is an American rapper and actor from South Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He first became known for his association with Jay Z and Roc-A-Fella Records, releasing his debut studio album The Truth through Roc-A-Fella in February 2000 to critical and commercial success.Sigel's second studio album, The Reason, saw similar commercial success, but received mixed reviews from critics. His third album, The B. Coming, was critically acclaimed and peaked at #3 on the Billboard 200. After a short break from music, Sigel returned to Roc-A-Fella in 2007 and released his fourth studio album The Solution in December 2007 to positive reviews. After leaving Roc-A-Fella once again, Sigel's fifth and sixth studio albums, The Broad Street Bully and This Time were released indepdendently in 2009 and 2012, respectively. Sigel is also known for his numerous legal issues, including a trial for attempted murder that took place between 2004 and 2005, and eventually lead to Sigel's acquittal. - Duval Clear (born December 4, 1966), known better by his stage name Masta Ace, is an American rapper and record producer from Brownsville, Brooklyn. He appeared on the classic 1988 Juice Crew posse cut "The Symphony". He is noted for his distinct voice and rapping proficiency, and has influenced several MCs. In 2000, he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, but he revealed it to the public in 2013.
- Ian Simpson (born July 16, 1996), better known by his stage name Kevin Abstract, is an American rapper, singer-songwriter, and director. He is a founding member of the Brockhampton band. Simpson released his debut album, MTV1987, in 2014, and received attention from a number of major music blogs and magazine publications. His second album, American Boyfriend: A Suburban Love Story, was released in November 2016.
- 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.
- 19Johnson Barnes III (born April 15, 1983), better known by his stage name Blu, is an American West Coast rapper from Los Angeles, California. He is best known for his group Blu & Exile and their debut album Below the Heavens. He is a forefront member of the California-based collective, Dirty Science. Blu is also co-CEO of New World Color, a label through which he is releasing many of his projects. He is recognized for his collaboration albums between him and various producers like Exile, Mainframe, Ta'Raach, Bombay, Madlib, Nottz, and Union Analogtronics. He has also performed about 300 plus shows and has independently spread his music internationally, with strong followings in places like London, Tokyo, Paris, Berlin, Toronto, Zurich, Melbourne, Moscow, South America and South Africa.
20billy woods
- Tyquian Terrel Bowman (born March 23, 1999), better known as Quando Rondo, is an American rapper and singer from Savannah, Georgia who is currently signed to the Atlantic Records imprint, Never Broke Again, LLC. He initially gained attention with the release of his song "I Remember" featuring Lil Baby in January 2018. He has since released two mixtapes, Life B4 Fame and Life After Fame. His song "Motivation" was featured on the popular YouTube channel ‘World Star Hip Hop.’ He has also released many other songs including "First Day Out" on SoundCloud.
- Trae may refer to the following people Trae tha Truth (born 1980), American hip hop recording artist Trae Crowder (born 1986), American comedian Trae Elston (born 1994), American football safety Trae Waynes (born 1992), American football cornerback Trae Williams (born 1985), American football cornerback Henry "Trae" Winter (born 1972), American solar physicist Trae Young (born 1998), American basketball player
- Tsidi Ibrahim, November 26, 1976), known professionally as Jean Grae (formerly What? What?), is an American hip hop recording artist, emcee, producer, actress, and comedian from Brooklyn, New York City. She rose to prominence in the underground hip hop scene in New York City and has since built an international fanbase. She is known as an important figure in hip hop and popular culture. Grae, unlike many rappers and emcees, take to rapping about nuances in Black heterosexual relationship in an effort to "rupture the normative narratives of black sexuality" and resist the bondage of heteronormativity. Evident of this is how she adopts the language of men to "assert her mastery over lyricism and her desire for both men and women". Nonetheless, her unique music style, gritty rhymes and lyrical mastery has earned her recognition as favorite emcee among many rap artists such as Talib Kweli, Jay-Z and Black Thought of the Roots.
- 24Chad Bromley (born March 8, 1979), better known by his stage name Apathy (formerly "The Alien Tongue"), is a rapper and producer from Willimantic, Connecticut.His first major release was his debut album; Eastern Philosophy in March 2006 with guest appearances from Celph Titled, Ryu, and Blue Raspberry. His second album Wanna Snuggle? was released in 2009 and his third studio album Honkey Kong was released in 2011, both to critical acclaim. His fourth studio album, Connecticut Casual was released on June 3, 2014 and reached #41 in the R&B/Hip Hop Albums charts.Apathy is known for his frequent collaborations with other MCs and groups such as Demigodz, Celph Titled, Doe Rakers, Jedi Mind Tricks, Army of the Pharaohs, Styles of Beyond, and the Get Busy Committee.
- Stephanie Victoria Allen (born 14 December 1991), better known by her stage name Stefflon Don, is an English rapper, singer and songwriter. She first appeared in the song "London" by American singer Jeremih. She is currently signed to Quality Control Music. In 2017, she featured on the song "Instruction" by Jax Jones and Demi Lovato, and her single "Hurtin' Me" reached number 7 on the UK Singles Chart.
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Tyte
Tyte is an up-and-coming rapper from Tallahassee, Florida. He released album Florida in 2017. His most recent album is 2019's On All 4. - 27
K-Rino
Eric Kaiser, better known by his stage name K-Rino, is an American rapper from Houston, Texas. He founded the South Park Coalition, and John Nova Lomax of the Houston Press described him as "the conscience of Houston rap, king of the Houston battle rappers," and a "true pioneer of Southern hip-hop." K-Rino has released over 20 solo albums and still counting. - 28Cody Foster, better known by his stage name Sadistik, is an American alternative hip hop artist from Seattle, Washington. He is currently signed to Fake Four Inc.. In 2013 he released his sophomore LP Flowers for My Father which received positive reviews. Vibe Magazine called the album "gripping & emotional".
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HappyBirthdayCalvin
HappyBirthdayCalvin is a 17-year-old Chicago rapper/producer who went from scribbling down his dreams word-for-word and penning poems in middle school to shining at ChiArts: Chicago High School of the Arts. While there, he began racking up countless streams on Soundcloud. In late 2018, he caught the attention of Peezy of At The Studio, an independent Chicago label and has since released two three-song EPs, No Friends 1 & 2.
- 30Kamaiyah Jamesha Johnson (born March 13, 1992) is an American rapper and singer from Oakland, California. She released her acclaimed debut mixtape A Good Night in the Ghetto in 2016 After releasing her debut mixtape, Kamaiyah performed at South by Southwest that month in Austin, Texas. That year she was also featured, along with Drake, on YG's "Why You Always Hatin?", a single from his 2016 Still Brazy. Later that year, Kamaiyah performed as an opener for YG on his Fuck Donald Trump Tour. On June 13, 2017, Kamaiyah was named as one of the ten of XXL's "2017 Freshman Class". Kamaiyah appeared in a Sprite commercial alongside LeBron James, in early 2018.
