The Greatest Rappers Who Died Too Soon
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The Greatest Rappers Who Died Too Soon

Ranker Hip Hop
Updated March 15, 2024 267.8K views
Ranked By
91.6K votes
18.1K voters
22 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up the hip hop artists who made the greatest bodies of work before they died
Latest additions: Takeoff, Gangsta Boo, Young Dolph
Most divisive: Soulja Slim
Over 18.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest Rappers Who Died Too Soon

Update: Dive into the best new hip hop with our list of 2020's top rap songs.

The Notorious B.I.G. once rapped, "I wonder if I died / Would tears come to her eyes / Forgive me for my disrespect / Forgive me for my lies." Biggie, we forgive you. Several famous rappers and hip-hop stars have unfortunately passed away. This list ranks the best of them. Some of these musicians were shot during an illegal activity, while others died of natural causes. Two famous rappers are suspected to have died in conjunction with the East/West rap rivalry of the 1990s.

Who is the best rapper who is already dead? Tupac Shakur tops our list. Tupac died on September 13, 1996 after being shot in Las Vegas. He was 25 years old. The Notorious B.I.G. died on March 9, 1997 after being murdered in a drive-by shooting in Los Angeles. Though many believe that his death was retaliation for the murder of Tupac, no arrests have been made in correlation with either murder. 

Adam Yauch, aka, MCA of the Beastie Boys, died on May 4, 2012 after a three year battle with cancer. He was 47 years old. On August 25, 2001, Aaliyah was killed, along with eight others, when her flight to the Bahamas crashed shortly after takeoff. She was 22 years old.

Are you surprised that so many famous rappers have died? Take a look at this list and share your thoughts in the comments section.

  • Tupac Shakur
    1

    Tupac Shakur

    All Eyez on Me, Me Against the World, The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory
    9,122 votes

    An icon in the world of hip-hop, this rapper's poetic lyrics and raw storytelling skills captivated audiences worldwide, addressing social issues and personal struggles with a unique blend of vulnerability and aggression. With an influential career spanning only five years before his untimely death, he left a lasting impact on the genre and sold over 75 million records globally. His profound influence can be felt today, as his work continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.

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  • The Notorious B.I.G.
    2

    The Notorious B.I.G.

    Ready to Die, Life After Death, Born Again
    7,489 votes

    A true lyrical genius, this East Coast rapper effortlessly combined intricate wordplay with vivid storytelling to create some of the most memorable verses in hip-hop history. Rising to fame in the mid-90s, he played a pivotal role in popularizing hardcore rap and helped put New York City back on the map as a major force in the genre. Despite his short-lived career due to a tragic death at the age of 24, his legacy endures as one of the greatest rappers of all time.

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  • XXXTentacion
    3

    XXXTentacion

    7,239 votes

    Known for his emotionally charged music and versatile style that blended elements of hip-hop, punk rock, and R&B, this artist quickly gained a massive following despite facing numerous controversies throughout his career. His innovative approach to songwriting showcased raw vulnerability and introspection, setting him apart from many of his contemporaries. Sadly, he was killed at just 20 years old, but his influence on modern hip-hop remains significant.

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  • Eazy-E
    4

    Eazy-E

    Eazy-Duz-It, It’s On (Dr. Dre) 187um Killa, Eternal E
    6,174 votes

    As a founding member of the pioneering gangsta rap group N.W.A., this West Coast rapper played an instrumental role in shaping the sound and direction of hip-hop during its early years. With his distinctive voice and unapologetic lyrics about street life in Compton, he pushed boundaries while shedding light on important social issues. His untimely death due to complications from AIDS marked the end of an era, but his contributions to the genre will never be forgotten.

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  • Pop Smoke
    5

    Pop Smoke

    321 votes
    Bashar Barakah Jackson (July 20, 1999 – February 19, 2020), known professionally as Pop Smoke, was an American rapper, singer and songwriter. He was considered by many to be the face of Brooklyn drill. Born and raised in Canarsie, Brooklyn, Pop Smoke began his musical career in 2018. He often collaborated with UK drill artists and producers, who employed more minimal and aggressive instrumentation than drill artists from Chicago. Pop Smoke rose to fame with the release of his breakout single "Welcome to the Party" in April 2019.
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  • Nate Dogg
    6

    Nate Dogg

    Music & Me, Welcome To The Dogg House, G-Funk Classics
    4,321 votes

    Renowned for his smooth, melodic voice and unmatched ability to craft unforgettable hooks, this West Coast singer/rapper played a key role in defining the G-funk sound of the 1990s. Collaborating with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, he left an indelible mark on the genre before passing away from complications related to multiple strokes at just 41 years old.

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  • Nipsey Hussle
    7

    Nipsey Hussle

    The Marathon Continues, The Marathon, You Broke
    2,455 votes

    A relentless hustler and talented lyricist, this Los Angeles rapper was deeply committed to uplifting his community and promoting self-sufficiency within the hip-hop industry. His unique blend of West Coast gangsta rap and socially conscious themes resonated with fans across the globe, earning him a Grammy nomination in 2019. Tragically killed at the age of 33, his efforts to empower others and create positive change continue to inspire both artists and activists alike.

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  • Prodigy
    8

    Prodigy

    H.N.I.C., Return of the Mac, H.N.I.C. Pt. 2
    2,614 votes

    As one-half of the influential New York City duo Mobb Deep, this rapper's gritty storytelling and introspective lyrics helped shape the East Coast hip-hop sound during its heyday in the 1990s. Known for his vivid depictions of street life and struggle, he consistently pushed creative boundaries throughout his decades-long career. Sadly, he passed away at 42 due to complications from sickle cell anemia, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of rap's most respected lyricists.

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  • Big L
    9

    Big L

    The Big Picture, Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous, Children of the Corn: The Collector's Edition
    4,049 votes

    Hailing from Harlem, this gifted MC possessed a razor-sharp wit and unparalleled wordplay skills that earned him widespread acclaim as one of the greatest punchline rappers of all time. Despite releasing only one album during his short-lived career, he left an indelible impact on hip-hop through his innovative rhyme schemes and complex storytelling. Tragically murdered at the age of 24, his influence can still be heard in the work of countless MCs who followed in his footsteps.

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  • Ol' Dirty Bastard
    10

    Ol' Dirty Bastard

    Return to the 36 Chambers: The Dirty Version, The Trials and Tribulations of Russell Jones, Ghetto Supastar (That Is What You Are)
    3,298 votes

    As a founding member of the legendary Wu-Tang Clan, this rapper's wild, unpredictable style and raw energy set him apart from his peers and made him one of hip-hop's most unforgettable characters. His unorthodox flow and offbeat humor brought a unique element to the group's groundbreaking sound, while his solo career showcased his eclectic musical influences and one-of-a-kind personality. Though he passed away at just 35 due to a drug overdose, his contributions to the genre remain undeniable.

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  • Mac Miller
    11

    Mac Miller

    Watching Movies with the Sound Off, Macadelic, In the Air
    222 votes
    Born as Malcolm James McCormick on January 19, 1992, Mac Miller was an influential figure in the American music industry. Known for his distinct style and introspective lyrics, he found his passion for music at a young age and pursued it relentlessly. He was raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where his early encounters with music were through piano lessons at the tender age of six, quickly followed by guitar and drums. His fascination with rap music began at the age of 14, leading him to release his first mixtape under the pseudonym "EZ Mac". Miller's career took off in 2010 when he signed a record deal with Rostrum Records. His debut studio album, Blue Slide Park, released in 2011, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, making him the first independent artist to achieve this feat since 1995. His subsequent albums, including Watching Movies with the Sound Off (2013), GO:OD AM (2015), The Divine Feminine (2016), and Swimming (2018), further established him as a force to be reckoned with in the hip-hop scene. Not only was he a talented rapper, but Miller also produced records under the pseudonym "Larry Fisherman", showcasing his versatility as an artist. Despite his professional successes, Miller's personal life was often marked by struggles with substance abuse, a theme that frequently appeared in his music. His honesty about his challenges resonated with many fans, adding a layer of depth and authenticity to his work. Tragically, Miller's life was cut short when he died of an accidental drug overdose on September 7, 2018. His posthumous album Circles was released in 2020, serving as a companion piece to Swimming and a reminder of the talent and potential that was lost. Despite his untimely death, Mac Miller's music continues to inspire and influence artists and fans around the world.
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  • Takeoff
    12

    Takeoff

    140 votes
    Kirshnik Khari Ball (June 18, 1994 – November 1, 2022), known professionally as Takeoff, was an American rapper. He was best known as a member of the hip hop trio Migos along with his uncle Quavo and first cousin once removed Offset. Migos' 2013 hit "Versace" went viral and peaked at number 99 on the Billboard Hot 100. He started making beats and developing rhythms in the seventh grade, but did not start producing music professionally until 2011. On August 5, 2020, news broke that Takeoff was named as the perpetrator in a civil lawsuit filed by a female victim on charges of "sexual battery, assault, false imprisonment, gender violence, and interference with civil rights" at a June 2020 party in Los Angeles. On November 1, 2022, Takeoff was shot and killed in Houston, Texas.
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  • Aaliyah
    13

    Aaliyah

    Aaliyah, One in a Million, I Care 4 U
    2,689 votes

    A true triple threat with her captivating voice, impressive dance skills, and acting talent, this R&B singer/actress effortlessly bridged the gap between hip-hop and pop music during her short but impactful career. Collaborating with some of the biggest names in rap, including Timbaland and Missy Elliott, she helped redefine the sound of R&B for a new generation before tragically losing her life in a plane crash at just 22 years old.

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  • Big Pun
    14

    Big Pun

    Capital Punishment, Yeeeah Baby, Endangered Species
    3,455 votes

    The first Latino rapper to achieve platinum sales status, this heavyweight MC from the Bronx quickly gained recognition for his rapid-fire flow and intricate wordplay that showcased his extraordinary lyrical skills. As a key figure in the Latin hip-hop movement of the late '90s, he paved the way for future artists while also leaving an indelible mark on mainstream rap as a whole. Sadly, his life was cut short at 28 due to a heart attack, but his contributions to the genre will always be remembered.

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  • Proof
    15

    Proof

    Searching for Jerry Garcia, Grown Man Shit, I Miss the Hip Hop Shop
    2,697 votes

    Best known as a founding member of Detroit-based hip-hop collective D12 and Eminem's right-hand man, this talented rapper possessed an uncanny ability to freestyle off-the-cuff lyrics on the spot. With his charismatic presence and undeniable skill, he played a crucial role in shaping the group's sound and success throughout their career. Tragically killed in a shooting at the age of 32, his influence on Detroit hip-hop remains significant.

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  • Lisa Lopes
    16

    Lisa Lopes

    Supernova, Eye Legacy, N.I.N.A
    1,721 votes

    Better known as "Left Eye," this dynamic rapper/singer was one-third of the best-selling female R&B group of all time, TLC. With her fiery personality and distinctive vocal style that seamlessly blended rapping and singing, she played a vital role in shaping the group's groundbreaking sound and image. Tragically killed in a car accident at just 30 years old, her influence on female artists in both hip-hop and R&B remains significant.

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  • Guru
    17

    Guru

    Jazzmatazz, Volume 1, Guru's Jazzmatazz
    1,980 votes

    As one-half of the iconic duo Gang Starr, this innovative MC helped pioneer jazz-rap with his smooth, laid-back flow and introspective lyrics that often addressed social issues and personal struggles. A true visionary, he pushed creative boundaries by collaborating with legendary jazz musicians and incorporating live instrumentation into his work. Sadly, he passed away at 48 after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of hip-hop's most respected artists.

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  • Jam Master Jay
    18

    Jam Master Jay

    1,221 votes

    As the DJ for legendary rap group Run-DMC, this pioneering artist played an essential role in popularizing hip-hop music during its early years by fusing rap with rock and incorporating scratching techniques into their iconic sound. Known for his innovative approach to turntablism and impeccable sense of timing, he helped set the stage for future DJs and producers within the genre. Tragically murdered at the age of 37, his contributions to hip-hop remain unparalleled.

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  • Phife Dawg
    19

    Phife Dawg

    Ventilation: Da LP, Flawless
    1,422 votes

    A founding member of the groundbreaking group A Tribe Called Quest, this rapper's witty wordplay and relatable storytelling played an integral role in defining the group's unique sound, which blended elements of jazz, funk, and soul with socially conscious lyrics. Often referred to as "the five-foot assassin" due to his short stature, he made a lasting impact on hip-hop before succumbing to complications from diabetes at just 45 years old.

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  • Pimp C
    20

    Pimp C

    The Naked Soul of Sweet Jones, Pimpalation, The Sweet James Jones Stories
    1,580 votes

    As one-half of the influential Southern rap duo UGK, this Texas-born rapper/producer helped pioneer the "Dirty South" sound with his distinctive drawl and smooth, soulful production style. Collaborating with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Jay-Z and Three 6 Mafia, he left an indelible mark on the genre before passing away at 33 due to complications from sleep apnea and a codeine overdose.

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  • Mac Dre
    21

    Mac Dre

    The Genie of the Lamp, Don't Hate The Player, Hate The Game
    1,310 votes

    A beloved figure within Bay Area hip-hop, this charismatic rapper is often credited with helping to popularize the "hyphy" movement with his energetic flow and party-centric lyrics that celebrated life in Northern California. Despite facing numerous legal issues throughout his career, he remained an influential force within West Coast rap until his untimely death at 34 in a still-unsolved shooting.

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  • Capital STEEZ
    22

    Capital STEEZ

    King Steelo
    1,377 votes

    As a founding member of Brooklyn-based hip-hop collective Pro Era, this young lyricist quickly gained recognition for his introspective rhymes and impressive wordplay that showcased his intellectual prowess. With a strong focus on spirituality and social consciousness, he brought a fresh perspective to modern hip-hop before tragically taking his own life at just 19 years old.

  • Heavy D
    23

    Heavy D

    Vibes, Waterbed Hev, Heavy
    1,400 votes

    Known for his smooth flow and infectious charisma, this Jamaican-born rapper helped bring hip-hop into the mainstream during the late '80s and early '90s as the frontman for Heavy D & The Boyz. With a unique blend of danceable beats, catchy hooks, and positive lyrics, he played a key role in shaping the "New Jack Swing" sound that would dominate popular music for years to come. Sadly, he passed away at 44 due to a pulmonary embolism, but his influence on the genre remains undeniable.

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  • Sean Price
    24

    Sean Price

    Monkey Barz, Jesus Price Supastar, Hood Anthems
    962 votes

    A respected lyricist and member of the influential hip-hop collective Boot Camp Clik, this Brooklyn-born rapper was known for his hard-hitting verses and unapologetic streetwise persona. Often referred to as "the brokest rapper you know," he consistently pushed creative boundaries throughout his career with his dark humor and gritty storytelling. He passed away unexpectedly at 43, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of underground hip-hop's most revered MCs.

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  • Adam Yauch
    25

    Adam Yauch

    Drum Machine
    1,110 votes

    As a founding member of the groundbreaking hip-hop trio Beastie Boys, this multi-talented rapper, bassist, and activist played a crucial role in shaping the group's innovative sound that fused elements of punk rock with rap. Known for his deep, gravelly voice and socially conscious lyrics, he helped redefine what it meant to be a hip-hop artist during the genre's early years. Sadly, he succumbed to cancer at the age of 47, but his contributions to music and activism continue to inspire artists today.

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  • Lil Snupe
    26

    Lil Snupe

    1,155 votes

    An up-and-coming rapper from Louisiana who quickly gained recognition for his raw talent and charismatic presence, this young artist was poised for greatness before his life was tragically cut short at only 18 years old in a still-unsolved shooting. Despite his brief career, his music resonated with fans across the nation due to its heartfelt storytelling and emotional depth. His untimely death serves as a stark reminder of the potential lost in senseless acts of violence.

  • DJ Screw
    27

    DJ Screw

    Fallen Soldiers, 3 'n the Mornin': Part Two, Royalty of Rap
    817 votes

    A pioneer of the "chopped and screwed" remix technique that slowed down and manipulated popular hip-hop tracks, this influential Houston-based DJ and producer left an indelible mark on Southern rap with his unique approach to mixing. His innovative style has been widely imitated and can still be heard in the work of countless DJs and producers across the genre. Tragically, he passed away at just 29 from a codeine overdose, but his impact on hip-hop remains significant.

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  • Young Dolph
    28

    Young Dolph

    77 votes
    Adolph Robert Thornton Jr. (July 27, 1985 – November 17, 2021), better known by his stage name Young Dolph, was an American rapper. In 2016, he released his debut studio album, King of Memphis, which peaked at number 49 on the Billboard 200 chart. He was featured on O.T. Genasis's hit single "Cut It", which peaked at number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100. Young Dolph's seventh album, Rich Slave, was released in 2020 and became his highest-charting project, debuting at number four on the Billboard 200. On November 17, 2021, he was shot and killed in Memphis, Tennessee.
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  • J Dilla
    29

    J Dilla

    Donuts, The Shining, Jay Stay Paid
    1,665 votes

    Widely regarded as one of the most influential producers in hip-hop history, this Detroit-native's innovative approach to beat-making combined elements of soul, jazz, and electronic music to create a distinctive sound that would inspire countless artists throughout the years. As a member of acclaimed groups Slum Village and The Ummah (with Q-Tip and Ali Shaheed Muhammad), he left an indelible mark on the genre before passing away from complications related to lupus and a rare blood disorder at just 32 years old.

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  • Soulja Slim
    30

    Soulja Slim

    The Streets Made Me, Years Later... A Few Months After, Years Later
    1,134 votes

    A talented rapper from New Orleans who gained national attention with his gritty storytelling and distinctive drawl, this artist's music chronicled the harsh realities of life in the city's notorious Magnolia Projects. Despite facing numerous legal issues throughout his career, he remained an influential figure within Southern hip-hop until his untimely death at 26 in a still-unsolved shooting.

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