The 75+ Best Rappers From New York, Ranked By Hip Hop Heads
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Hailing from Queensbridge, Nas solidified his status as one of the greatest emcees with his groundbreaking debut album, Illmatic. With raw, introspective lyrics that showcased his unmatched storytelling skills and an unparalleled flow, Nas captivated listeners and influenced generations of rappers. He continued to deliver thought-provoking content throughout his career, cementing his place among the best New York lyricists.
A titan of the hip-hop genre, Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G., made an enormous impact on the music scene. Despite his tragically short career due to his untimely death, Biggie's incredible storytelling abilities coupled with his powerful presence behind the mic led to iconic tracks such as "Juicy" and "Mo Money Mo Problems." His ability to paint vivid pictures of life in Brooklyn established him as a lyrical genius and a forerunner in the New York rap game.
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The Wu-Tang Clan burst onto the scene in 1993 with a sound that was both gritty and innovative, forever changing hip-hop. Hailing from Staten Island and led by producer extraordinaire RZA, the nine-member collective blended kung-fu imagery with street narratives, creating a unique sound that resonated with fans around the globe. Their masterpiece, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), remains a seminal piece of work that solidified their place among the greatest New York rap groups.
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Few can argue with the massive success and influence of Shawn Carter, known worldwide as JAY-Z. As a rapper, entrepreneur, and industry mogul, he has been a dominant force in the music world since the release of his seminal album, Reasonable Doubt. JAY-Z's undeniable knack for clever wordplay and keen business acumen have helped him become not just one of the greatest New York rappers, but also a global icon.
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Earl Simmons, known professionally as DMX, rose to prominence with his distinctive voice, raw lyrics, and unmatched energy levels. Born in Mount Vernon but raised in Yonkers, DMX became a powerful force in the late '90s and early 2000s, delivering explosive performances and chart-topping albums. His relentless intensity and ability to captivate an audience made him a standout artist in the competitive New York rap scene.
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- #25 of 186 onThe Best Rap Lyricists of All Time
Mobb Deep, composed of Havoc and Prodigy, formed in Queens and quickly established themselves as staples in the New York hardcore hip-hop scene. Their second album, The Infamous, brought them considerable success and acclaim, with tracks such as "Shook Ones Pt. II" showcasing their knack for dark, gritty storytelling and razor-sharp lyricism. The duo's undeniable chemistry and authentic representation of life in the city helped cement their legacy as one of the best rap acts to emerge from New York.
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While Tupac was born in East Harlem, his influence extended far beyond New York City, becoming a global phenomenon and a symbol of rebellion against systemic oppression. Tupac's thought-provoking lyrics, passionate delivery, and unwavering commitment to activism struck a chord with fans across the world. His numerous chart-topping hits and lasting cultural significance have earned him a spot among the greatest rappers ever to emerge from New York.
Hailing from Long Island, Rakim is often regarded as the "God MC" for his influential role in shaping modern hip-hop. With complex wordplay, introspective lyrics, and innovative rhyming patterns, Rakim pushed the boundaries of rap music in the mid-to-late '80s. As half of the legendary duo Eric B. & Rakim, he helped create a new blueprint for emcees and solidified his status as one of the all-time great rappers from New York.
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Emerging from South Jamaica, Queens, Curtis Jackson, commonly known as 50 Cent, took the rap world by storm with his debut album, Get Rich or Die Tryin'. With catchy hooks, street-savvy lyrics, and a fearless attitude, he quickly became a dominant force in the industry, going on to establish himself as an entrepreneur and actor. 50 Cent's incredible rise to fame and continued influence helped preserve his legendary status within the New York rap scene.
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As a key member of the Wu-Tang Clan, Method Man combined his smooth flow with a charismatic stage presence, making him stand out among his fellow group members. Born in Hempstead, Long Island, but raised in Staten Island, Method Man's solo career took off with the release of Tical, a critically acclaimed album that showcased his unique blend of humor, wit, and lyricism. His infectious personality and undeniable talent solidify him as one of the most respected emcees from New York.
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Formed in the late '80s, A Tribe Called Quest took hip-hop by storm with their innovative sound incorporating jazz and unconventional sampling techniques, bringing a fresh approach to the genre. The group, including members Q-Tip, Phife Dawg, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, and Jarobi White, captivated fans with their thought-provoking lyrics that tackled social and political issues. Hailing from Queens, A Tribe Called Quest became a driving force in the Native Tongues movement and a symbol of New York's vibrant rap scene.
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Born in London but raised in Long Island, MF Doom brought an unmatched level of creativity and mystique to the hip-hop scene. With his signature mask and an alter ego inspired by the Marvel Comics supervillain Doctor Doom, he crafted intricate rhymes and unconventional beats that left listeners craving more. His innovative style and enigmatic persona have made him a cult figure in the New York rap community and beyond.
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As a prominent member of the Wu-Tang Clan and a highly successful solo artist, Ghostface Killah has consistently demonstrated his prowess as a top-tier lyricist. Born in Staten Island, his unique voice, vivid storytelling, and colorful use of slang have captivated fans for decades. With classic albums like Ironman and Supreme Clientele, Ghostface has solidified his position as one of the greatest rappers to emerge from New York.
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- #13 of 186 onThe Best Rap Lyricists of All Time
Trevor Smith, better known as Busta Rhymes, is a force to be reckoned with, boasting a nearly three-decade-long career with numerous hits under his belt. Hailing from Brooklyn, Busta Rhymes is known for his rapid-fire delivery, energetic performances, and unforgettable hooks. With a discography that spans multiple eras and styles, Busta Rhymes has solidified himself as a true icon in the New York rap scene.
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- #15 of 186 onThe Best Rap Lyricists of All Time
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Big L, born Lamont Coleman, was a pioneer of New York's hardcore hip-hop scene, known for his intricate wordplay and dark, gritty lyrics. Hailing from Harlem, Big L's smooth flow and immense skill as a lyricist set him apart from his peers, making him one of the most respected rappers in the game. Though his career was tragically cut short by his untimely death, Big L remains a revered figure in the annals of New York hip-hop history.
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- #82 of 180 onThe Best New School Rappers
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As a founding member of Black Star and a successful solo artist, Mos Def, now known as Yasiin Bey, has consistently used his platform to address social and political issues through thought-provoking lyricism. Raised in Brooklyn, his unique blend of hip-hop, jazz, and soul elements, combined with his powerful voice and insightful messages, has made him a standout figure within the rap community. With critically acclaimed albums like Black on Both Sides and numerous collaborations, Mos Def has proven himself to be one of the most talented and influential rappers to come out of New York.
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When two of the East Coast's most charismatic emcees, Method Man and Redman, joined forces, it was a match made in hip-hop heaven. Already successful solo artists in their own right, the Staten Island and New Jersey natives formed a dynamic duo that brought an unrivaled energy and chemistry to their highly acclaimed collaborations. Their witty wordplay, shared passion for marijuana, and infectious personalities have made them fan favorites and an iconic pair in the New York rap scene.
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Pop Smoke, born Bashar Barakah Jackson, emerged as a leading figure in the Brooklyn drill movement, blending menacing beats with his signature gravelly voice and distinctive flow. In his tragically short career, Pop Smoke released songs that resonated with fans worldwide, capturing the raw energy and gritty atmosphere of New York streets. His undeniable talent and rapid ascent to fame made him one of the most promising rappers to come from the city in recent years.
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James Todd Smith, affectionately known as LL Cool J, made an indelible mark on the hip-hop scene with his effortless charisma and smooth delivery. Hailing from Queens, LL quickly gained a following with anthems like "I Can't Live Without My Radio" and "Mama Said Knock You Out." His ability to navigate between hard-hitting tracks and sultry love songs solidified his place as a versatile and pioneering artist in the New York rap landscape.
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As the first Latin rapper to achieve platinum status for a solo album, Big Pun (short for Big Punisher) was a trailblazer in the New York hip-hop community. Born in the Bronx, he was known for his rapid-fire delivery and intricate wordplay, proving that heavyweights could hold their own on the mic. Big Pun's lyrical prowess and undeniable impact on the Latin rap scene have immortalized him as one of the best New York emcees of all time.
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As a member of The Lox and a successful solo artist, Jadakiss has been a staple in the New York rap scene since the '90s. Born in Yonkers, his gritty voice and razor-sharp lyricism have captivated fans for decades, earning him a reputation as one of the most skilled emcees in the game. With an extensive catalog of street anthems and collaborations with some of hip-hop's biggest names, Jadakiss has left an indelible mark on the city's music landscape.
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Representing Brooklyn, Joey Bada$$ gained prominence with his debut mixtape, 1999, showcasing his lyrical prowess and paying homage to the golden era of New York hip-hop. As a co-founder of the Pro Era collective, he helped usher in a new wave of talent from the city. Over his young career, Joey Bada$$ has proven himself as a skilled wordsmith and capable of holding his own among New York's finest rappers.
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Born and raised in Harlem, A$AP Rocky quickly became a leading figure in the New York hip-hop scene for his fashion-forward style and unique approach to music. His debut mixtape, Live. Love. A$AP, showcased his experimental production choices and laid-back flows, capturing the attention of fans worldwide. A$AP Rocky's distinctive sound and flair for innovation have made him an influential force among the city's rappers.
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The legendary duo of DJ Eric B. and emcee Rakim helped redefine the sound and lyricism of hip-hop during the golden era. With classic albums like Paid in Full, they pushed the boundaries of what rap music could be, influencing countless others in the process. Their innovative approach to sampling, mesmerizing beats, and Rakim's groundbreaking lyrical style have forever cemented their status as one of the most important acts to emerge from New York.
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Hailing from the Highbridge section of the Bronx, A Boogie wit da Hoodie has carved out a unique lane for himself in New York's crowded hip-hop scene. His melodic flows and introspective lyrics have resonated with fans, propelling him to widespread success. As a leading figure in the new generation of New York rappers, A Boogie's ability to bridge the gap between hip-hop and R&B has solidified his spot among the city's finest artists.
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One half of the iconic duo Mobb Deep, Prodigy's undeniable talent as an emcee made him a standout figure in the New York hip-hop scene. Born in Hempstead and raised in Queens, he was known for his dark, introspective lyrics that painted a vivid picture of life in the city. His partnership with Havoc helped establish Mobb Deep as one of the most revered rap acts to come from New York, and his influence can still be felt in today's artists.
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A founding member of the Wu-Tang Clan, Ol' Dirty Bastard was known for his wild, unpredictable style, and eccentric personality. His unorthodox approach to music endeared him to fans and made him one of the most memorable characters in the industry. Hailing from Brooklyn, ODB's contributions to the Wu-Tang Clan, as well as his own solo work, have made him an unforgettable figure in New York rap history.
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As a member of the Fugees and a highly praised solo artist, Lauryn Hill broke barriers and blazed her own trail in the rap game. Born in East Orange, New Jersey, but closely connected to the New York music scene, she balanced her soulful singing with powerful, socially conscious lyrics. Her critically acclaimed album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, remains a testament to her incredible talent and earned her a lasting legacy among the greats of New York hip-hop.
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Another essential member of the Wu-Tang Clan, Raekwon made a name for himself with his vivid storytelling skills and unique slang. Hailing from Staten Island, the "Chef" further solidified his place among rap's elite with the release of his acclaimed solo album, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx…, often regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. Raekwon's contributions to the Wu-Tang Clan and his own solo work have earned him an enduring legacy in the New York rap community.
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As one of the most influential hip-hop acts of all time, Run-DMC helped bring rap music into the mainstream with their groundbreaking fusion of rock and rap. Hailing from Hollis, Queens, the trio of Rev. Run, DMC, and Jam Master Jay captivated audiences with their energetic performances and iconic tracks like "Walk This Way" and "It's Tricky." Run-DMC set the standard for New York rap groups and paved the way for future generations of artists.
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