The Best Young Rappers And New School Rappers
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The Best Young Rappers And New School Rappers

Ranker Hip Hop
Updated April 17, 2024 2.0M views
Ranked By
885.6K votes
88.4K voters
Voting Rules
Rappers must be under 30 and currently making new music.

Hip hop heads, it's time to vote for who you believe will be future hip hop legends. From the best new rappers to the youngest rappers in the game right now, these rising hip hop artists are releasing fire mixtapes, top ten hits, and platinum albums. Who is currently the best young rapper making the hottest tracks of 2020? 

Featuring the best underground rappers who started on SoundCloud, XXL Freshman Class, and international rappers, this list of the best rappers under 30 includes Lil Yachty, Earl Sweatshirt, Vince Staples, Lil Dicky, Logic, Chance the Rapper, Lil Uzi Vert, 21 Savage, Kodak Black, and more. 

Vote for the best new school rappers of 2018. Feel free to add any new wave rappers who deserve to be on this list of underrated rappers. 

Latest additions: NLE Choppa, Baby Keem
Over 88.4K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Young Rappers And New School Rappers
  • Lil Uzi Vert
    1

    Lil Uzi Vert

    Purple Thoughtz EP Vol. 1, The Real Uzi, Luv is Rage
    9,380 votes

    A true innovator in the world of trap music, this Philadelphia native quickly rose to fame with his irresistible charisma, colorful persona, and infectious melodies. Known for his high-energy performances, playful ad-libs, and intricate flows, he has delivered countless hits such as "XO TOUR Llif3" and "Money Longer." With a style that consistently pushes boundaries and challenges the definition of rap, he proves time and again that he is a force to be reckoned with.

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  • Ski Mask the Slump God
    2

    Ski Mask the Slump God

    Members Only, You Will Regret
    7,951 votes

    Hailing from Florida, this wildly creative rapper has made a name for himself with his offbeat, energetic style and penchant for pop culture references. His lightning-fast flows, intricate rhyme schemes, and theatrical performances quickly set him apart from his peers, as he gained traction with songs such as "Catch Me Outside" and "Faucet Failure." By breaking conventions and pushing the boundaries of rap, he has garnered a fiercely devoted fanbase and established himself as a prominent voice in the new school.

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    NEW TO THE LIST
    • NEW
      #25
      NLE Choppa
      21 votes
    • NEW
      #23
      Baby Keem
      24 votes
  • Lil Baby
    3

    Lil Baby

    4,032 votes

    This Atlanta-born artist has rapidly ascended to the upper echelon of modern hip-hop with his distinctive, melodic flow and introspective lyrics that capture both the struggles and triumphs of his upbringing. His undeniable technical skill, coupled with an ear for catchy hooks and powerful storytelling, has resulted in chart-dominating tracks like "Drip Too Hard" and "The Bigger Picture." As his star continues to rise, he stands as a testament to the power of raw talent and dedication to one's craft.

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  • Polo G
    4

    Polo G

    3,466 votes

    Hailing from Chicago, this young star has quickly emerged as one of the most promising talents in modern rap, blending introspective lyrics and infectious melodies with gritty, street-rooted authenticity. Known for his distinctive, melodic flow and storytelling prowess, he has garnered widespread acclaim with tracks like "Finer Things" and "Pop Out." As he continues to rise in popularity, his ability to resonate with fans from all walks of life speaks to his exceptional artistic versatility.

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  • Post Malone
    5

    Post Malone

    White Iverson, Too Young
    10,048 votes

    This genre-defying artist has consistently blurred the lines between rap, pop, rock, and country, captivating audiences with his soulful voice, melodic hooks, and heartfelt lyrics. His introspective storytelling and knack for crafting chart-topping hits like "Congratulations" and "Circles" have not only earned him critical acclaim but also a loyal fanbase that spans multiple demographics. With his trendsetting style and undeniable talent, he remains at the forefront of the ever-evolving music landscape.

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  • Lil Tjay
    6

    Lil Tjay

    1,596 votes

    This young Bronx native has made a name for himself by deftly incorporating elements of street rap, melodic trap, and R&B into his music. Known for his catchy hooks and vulnerable, introspective lyrics, he has quickly ascended the ranks of the rap scene with hits like "F.N" and "Brothers." As his star continues to rise, his ability to connect with fans on a deeply emotional level speaks to his exceptional artistic potential.

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  • Joey Bada$$
    7

    Joey Bada$$

    Summer Knights, 1999, Big Dusty
    19,243 votes

    Despite his young age, this Brooklyn native has been celebrated for his prodigious talent and mature approach to hip-hop, evoking a golden era of rap with his smooth flow and thought-provoking lyrics. With projects like 1999 and All-Amerikkkan Bada$$, he consistently showcases his ability to blend socially conscious narratives with infectious melodies and razor-sharp wordplay. As both a lyricist and an activist, he stands as a shining example of the power music has to create change.

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  • NBA Youngboy
    8

    NBA Youngboy

    Untill Death Call My Name
    4,502 votes

    As one of the most prolific rappers in the game, this Baton Rouge native has captivated audiences with his gritty, emotional storytelling and innate melodic sensibilities. Despite facing numerous legal issues and personal struggles, he has consistently released hit after hit, amassing a fervent fan base that wholeheartedly supports his raw, unfiltered approach to music. With songs like "No Smoke" and "Outside Today" showcasing his undeniable talent, he has proven himself to be a key player in the modern rap scene.

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  • Playboi Carti
    9

    Playboi Carti

    3,130 votes

    With his minimalist, ad-lib-heavy style and hypnotic beats, this Atlanta rapper has carved out a unique niche in the trap music scene. Known for his infectious tracks like "Magnolia" and "Shoota," he has amassed a dedicated fanbase that eagerly anticipates each new release. By pushing the boundaries of traditional rap conventions, he has established himself as a trendsetting figure in the world of contemporary hip-hop.

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  • A Boogie wit da Hoodie
    10

    Originally from the Bronx, this melodic rapper has rapidly risen to fame with his smooth vocal delivery, catchy hooks, and versatile songwriting abilities. With hit songs like "Drowning" and "Look Back at It," he effortlessly blends elements of trap, R&B, and pop to create his unique sound, resonating with audiences around the world. As he continues to evolve as an artist, he remains a prolific player in the ever-changing hip-hop landscape.

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  • Kodak Black
    11

    Kodak Black

    7,152 votes

    Despite numerous legal troubles and controversies, this Florida native's raw talent as a rapper cannot be denied. Known for his unfiltered, street-centric lyrics and undeniable charisma, he gained prominence with hit tracks like "No Flockin" and "Tunnel Vision." While his future remains uncertain, his influence and impact on the modern rap scene are indisputable.

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  • Trippie Redd
    12

    Trippie Redd

    3,997 votes

    As a prominent player in the emo rap sub-genre, this Ohio native has garnered widespread attention for his melodic hooks, emotive lyrics, and genre-blending sound. Drawing from influences in rock, punk, and trap, he has crafted his own distinctive style, as evidenced by hits like "Dark Knight Dummo" and "Topanga." His unique approach to music sets him apart from his peers, ensuring his place as one of the most innovative artists in the current hip-hop landscape.

  • Denzel Curry
    13

    Denzel Curry

    Nostalgic 64
    9,706 votes

    Hailing from Miami, this versatile rapper has consistently defied categorization, blending elements of trap, punk, and alternative music to create his eclectic, high-energy sound. With impressively rapid flows, hard-hitting lyricism, and a unique artistic vision, he has garnered critical acclaim for projects like TA13OO and ZUU. His unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of rap has cemented his status as one of the genre's most innovative figures.

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  • Lil Yachty
    14

    Lil Yachty

    6,855 votes

    As one of the pioneers of the "bubblegum trap" subgenre, this Atlanta native's playful, melody-driven approach to rap has made him a fixture in the new wave of hip-hop. With his distinctive voice and lighthearted, carefree lyrics, he has garnered widespread attention with tracks like "One Night" and "Broccoli." His ability to push boundaries and embrace experimentation has solidified his place as a trendsetter in modern rap.

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  • Roddy Ricch
    15

    Roddy Ricch

    1,470 votes

    Hailing from Compton, this talented rapper has swiftly made a mark on the hip-hop scene with his catchy melodies, gritty storytelling, and smooth, soulful voice. With chart-topping tracks like "The Box" and "Ballin'," he has displayed an uncanny ability to craft infectious hooks while staying true to his West Coast roots. As he continues to build his legacy, his innovative and versatile approach to music solidifies his place as one of the most exciting new talents in the rap game.

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  • Lil Skies
    16

    Lil Skies

    3,667 votes

    With his introspective lyrics, catchy melodies, and relatable themes, this Pennsylvania native has carved out a space for himself in the modern hip-hop landscape. His penchant for blending elements of emo, trap, and pop has resulted in hits like "Red Roses" and "Nowadays," earning him legions of dedicated fans. As he continues to hone his craft and push boundaries, his unique approach to music secures his place as one of the most promising voices in contemporary rap.

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  • Lil Tecca
    17

    Lil Tecca

    805 votes

    At just 17 years old, this New York-born rapper has already made a significant impact on the rap scene with his catchy hooks, melodic flows, and playful attitude. His breakout hit "Ransom" showcases his unique style and undeniable talent, earning him a spot among the new wave of young rappers. As he continues to build on his early success, he remains a promising talent in the ever-evolving hip-hop landscape.

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  • YBN Cordae
    18

    YBN Cordae

    1,347 votes

    As a member of the YBN collective, this young rapper has quickly gained recognition for his diverse range of influences, impressive lyrical skill, and ability to tackle thought-provoking themes. With well-received projects like The Lost Boy and standout tracks such as "Have Mercy," he has showcased his immense potential and talent, solidifying his status as a bright star in the new generation of hip-hop.

  • Jack Harlow
    19

    Jack Harlow

    840 votes

    This Kentucky native has swiftly made a name for himself with his versatile flow, witty lyricism, and undeniable charisma. His breakout single "What's Poppin" showcases his infectious energy and smooth delivery, capturing the attention of fans and fellow artists alike. As he continues to rise in popularity, his unique voice and refreshing approach to rap ensure his place as a key figure in the modern music landscape.

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  • YBN Nahmir
    20

    YBN Nahmir

    1,959 votes

    As one of the founding members of the YBN collective, this young rapper has quickly gained attention for his catchy hooks, confident delivery, and undeniable charisma. With hits like "Rubbin' Off the Paint" and "Bounce Out With That," he has demonstrated his talent for crafting infectious tracks that resonate with fans across the globe. As he continues to evolve as an artist, he stands as a prominent figure in the new generation of hip-hop talent.

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  • Chief Keef
    21

    Chief Keef

    Finally Rich, Back From the Dead, I Don't Like
    8,306 votes

    As one of the pioneers of the Chicago drill music scene, this rapper's unapologetic approach to storytelling and charismatic presence have left a significant impact on modern hip-hop. Known for his gritty, hard-hitting tracks like "Love Sosa" and "I Don't Like," he has paved the way for countless artists who have followed in his footsteps. Despite facing numerous legal issues and personal struggles, his influence and impact on the genre remain undeniable.

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  • Aminé
    22

    Aminé

    1,665 votes
    Adam Aminé Daniel (born April 18, 1994) is an American rapper, singer and songwriter. He is best known for his commercial debut single, "Caroline", which peaked at number 11 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. Aminé released his debut studio album Good for You, on July 28, 2017.
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  • Baby Keem
    23

    Baby Keem

    24 votes
    Hykeem Jamaal Carter Jr. (born October 22, 2000), known professionally as Baby Keem, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer from Las Vegas, Nevada. He initially gained major recognition following the release of his single "Orange Soda", from his second mixtape Die for My B*tch (2019), which peaked at number 98 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. He would later go on to collaborate with prominent artists such as Travis Scott, Kanye West, and his cousin Kendrick Lamar, on the songs "Durag Activity," "Praise God," "Range Brothers," and "Family Ties" respectively, with "Family Ties" and "Praise God" reaching the top 20 on the Hot 100. His debut studio album The Melodic Blue, which was preceded by the aforementioned singles, was issued in September 2021 by Columbia Records and pgLang.
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  • Smokepurpp
    24

    Smokepurpp

    2,541 votes
    Omar Pineiro (born May 15, 1997), known professionally as Smokepurpp, is an American rapper from Miami, Florida. Pineiro found success on the audio distribution platform SoundCloud in 2017 after his song "Audi" went viral. Originally a producer, Pineiro is one of the most known figures of the "SoundCloud rap" movement due to his influence on artists such as Lil Pump who have since entered the mainstream music market. Pineiro released his debut commercial mixtape Deadstar on September 28, 2017, and the mixtape peaked at no. 42 on the Billboard 200 albums chart.
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  • NLE Choppa
    25

    NLE Choppa

    21 votes
    Bryson Lashun Potts (born November 1, 2002), better known as NLE Choppa (formerly known as YNR Choppa), is an American rapper and songwriter based in Memphis, Tennessee. He is best known for his 2019 breakout single "Shotta Flow", which was certified platinum by the RIAA.
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  • Rich Brian
    26

    Rich Brian

    Amen, The Sailor
    2,862 votes
    Brian Imanuel (born 3 September 1999), known professionally as Rich Brian and formerly as Rich Chigga, is an Indonesian rapper, singer, songwriter and record producer. He is known for his viral debut single "Dat $tick", which was first released in January 2016 on SoundCloud. The single was later certified gold by RIAA. His debut studio album, Amen, was released in February 2018, and peaked at number 18 on the US Billboard 200. Brian's second studio album, The Sailor, was released on 26 July 2019.
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  • Lil Pump
    27

    Lil Pump

    3,927 votes
    Gazzy Garcia (born August 17, 2000), known professionally as Lil Pump, is an American rapper and songwriter. He began uploading songs to music sharing website SoundCloud in 2016, gaining almost one-hundred million streams combined on the site. Together with fellow Miami rapper Smokepurpp, Garcia is best known for his song "Gucci Gang" which peaked at number three on the US Billboard Hot 100. He released his debut studio album, Lil Pump, on October 6, 2017.
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  • Quando Rondo
    28

    Quando Rondo

    479 votes
    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.
  • Lil Herb
    29

    Lil Herb

    EBK, Road to Fazoland, Welcome to Fazoland
    4,650 votes
    Listen to "Welcome to Fazoland".  Best mixtape
    Herbert Randall Wright III (born October 8, 1995), better known by his stage name G Herbo, (formerly Lil Herb) is an American rapper and songwriter from Chicago, Illinois. Herbo is signed to Machine Entertainment Group. He has released the mixtapes Welcome to Fazoland (2014), Pistol P Project (2014), Ballin Like I'm Kobe (2015), and Strictly 4 My Fans (2016). His studio albums are his debut Humble Beast (2017) and with Southside of 808 Mafia, Swervo (2018), his first major release through Epic Records. Wright grew up in Chicago. He dropped out of school when he was 16. He was influenced by Meek Mill, Jeezy, Gucci Mane, Yo Gotti and Lil Wayne. He is close friends with fellow rapper Lil Bibby with whom he has collaborated on numerous songs. Both artists are associated with the family N.L.M.B., which was originally formed from the merger of No Limit, a renegade faction of the Almighty Black P. Stone Nation, and the Muskegon Boyz, a renegade faction of the Gangster Disciples.
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  • Jaden Smith
    30

    Jaden Smith

    The Cool Cafe
    3,256 votes
    Jaden Smith, born as Jaden Christopher Syre Smith on July 8, 1998, is a multi-talented American artist known for his endeavors in acting, singing, and entrepreneurship. He is the son of renowned Hollywood actors Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith. His early foray into the entertainment industry was marked by his debut role in The Pursuit of Happyness (2006), starring alongside his father, which earned him widespread recognition and accolades. Smith continued to cultivate his acting career with roles in films like The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008) and The Karate Kid (2010). The latter became a worldwide hit and established Smith as a young actor of considerable talent. However, his creative pursuits were not limited to acting. In 2010, he ventured into music with his first mixtape, The Cool Cafe. His unique blend of hip-hop and neo-soul elements demonstrated his musical prowess, leading to the release of his first full-length album, SYRE, in 2017. Beyond his artistic pursuits, Smith has also made significant strides as an entrepreneur and philanthropist. He co-founded Just Water, a sustainable water company aiming to reduce plastic waste, demonstrating his commitment to environmental sustainability. In addition, he established the non-profit initiative 501CThree, which provides clean water to communities in need. Smith's diverse portfolio of accomplishments at such a young age reflects his dynamic persona and his continuous pursuit of innovation and impact.
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