New York City, often considered the birthplace of hip-hop, has produced a veritable who’s-who of rap royalty. From the boroughs of Bronx to Brooklyn to Queens and beyond, the influence of New York rappers is omnipresent, echoing through the beats and rhymes that have shaped the genre for decades. In this list, we chart a course through the legacy of artists whose lyrical prowess, storytelling ability, and cultural impact have earned them the title of top rappers from the Empire State. From old-school pioneers to new-age maestros, these are the names that have stood out in the game. Let’s countdown from number ten to the indisputable number one.
#10. Big Daddy Kane
Kicking off our list is Brooklyn’s own Big Daddy Kane—a seminal figure in the golden age of hip-hop. Notorious for his quick wit, high-speed rhyme delivery, and smooth persona, Kane became an influential name in the late 1980s. His album “Long Live the Kane” features timeless hits like “Ain’t No Half-Steppin,'” which showcased his adept wordplay and impeccable flow. His impact on the hip-hop industry isn’t just limited to his own discography; he’s been a mentor to many and his styles have been emulated by countless rappers after him.
#9. Q-Tip
Q-Tip, born Jonathan Davis, made waves in the hip-hop scene as part of the iconic group A Tribe Called Quest. His mellow, jazz-infused style and philosophical lyrics ushered in a new era of rap music in the 1990s. With classics like “Can I Kick It?” and “Check the Rhime,” Q-Tip helped define the sound of an alternative rap movement that valued intricate lyrics over braggadocio. His influence extends beyond A Tribe Called Quest, with Q-Tip also having a successful solo career and being an instrumental producer for many other artists.
#8. LL Cool J
One cannot talk about the greats of New York rap without mentioning LL Cool J, the kid from Queens who exploded into the rap scene with his aggressive style and romantic ballads. LL Cool J, which stands for “Ladies Love Cool James,” has been in the game since he was 17 with his hit debut album “Radio.” With tracks like “I Can’t Live Without My Radio” and “Mama Said Knock You Out,” he solidified his place in rap history. His versatility and longevity in music, film, and television have kept him in the public eye for over three decades.
#7. 50 Cent
Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson’s rags to riches story is as legendary as his music. Coming from South Jamaica, Queens, 50 Cent burst onto the scene in the early 2000s with “Get Rich or Die Tryin’,” an album that became a soundtrack for the streets. Hits like “In Da Club” and “21 Questions” not only dominated the charts but etched his name into the rap Hall of Fame. His impact on the music industry continued with his business acumen, leading to successful ventures like the popular TV series “Power.”
#6. Rakim
William Michael Griffin Jr., known professionally as Rakim, is often hailed as one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop history. As one half of the duo Eric B. & Rakim, he was responsible for classic albums such as “Paid in Full” and “Follow the Leader.” His complex rhyme schemes and layered metaphors were ahead of their time, influencing a whole generation of emcees. Rakim’s intellectual approach to rap set a new standard for the lyrical depth in the genre.
#5. DMX
Earl Simmons, better known as DMX, brought a level of intensity and passion to rap that was rarely seen before him. His gritty anthems and emotional rawness presented a stark contrast to the more flashy rap of the late ’90s. With albums like “It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot” and “…And Then There Was X,” DMX captured the imagination of listeners worldwide. His distinct delivery and hooks make his music unmistakable, and his influence can be felt in the cadences of many modern rappers.
#4. Nas
Nasir Jones, or Nas, is often cited as a poet laureate of hip-hop, weaving complex narratives and richly detailed pictures of urban life. His debut album “Illmatic,” released in 1994, is frequently ranked as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. With its evocative storytelling and jazz-influenced beats, Nas was hailed as a rap prophet. He has consistently released thought-provoking music for over two decades and has engaged in historic feuds, most notably with Jay-Z, further cementing his legendary status.
#3. The Notorious B.I.G.
Christopher Wallace, known to the world as The Notorious B.I.G. or Biggie Smalls, is arguably one of the most talented rappers ever to pick up a microphone. With a flow as smooth as silk and rhymes that packed a punch, Biggie’s storytelling was unparalleled. Albums like “Ready to Die” and “Life After Death” remain monumental achievements, showcasing Biggie’s ability to toggle between vulnerability and braggadocio effortlessly. Although his life was tragically cut short, his influence on hip-hop culture remains ineffaceable.
#2. Jay-Z
Shawn Corey Carter, known as Jay-Z, epitomizes the essence of New York rap with a career that spans over two decades. His rags-to-riches tale from the Marcy Projects in Brooklyn to becoming a hip-hop mogul is a source of inspiration for many. With hits like “Hard Knock Life,” “99 Problems,” and “Empire State of Mind,” Jay-Z’s mark on hip-hop is monumental. His lyrical prowess, entrepreneurial spirit, and longevity have not only made him a rap icon but a cultural phenomenon.
#1. Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur, though often associated with the West Coast, was actually born in East Harlem, New York. He merits a place on this list not just for his New York origins but for his incredible impact on the genre. Tupac’s profound lyrics, charismatic delivery, and social consciousness made him a voice for the voiceless and endeared him to millions. His albums “Me Against the World” and “All Eyez on Me” are staples in the hip-hop canon. Although his career was cut tragically short, his presence is still deeply felt in the industry and across the world. His message of love, equality, and resistance continues to resonate, securing his position at the top of this list.