Determining the top rappers globally is subjective and varies based on criteria such as lyrical skill, cultural impact, and commercial success. In February 2023, Billboard and Vibe released a list of the “50 Greatest Rappers of All Time,” ranking the top ten as follows:
- Jay-Z
- Kendrick Lamar
- Nas
- Tupac Shakur
- Eminem
- The Notorious B.I.G.
- Lil Wayne
- Drake
- Snoop Dogg
- Nicki Minaj
This ranking was based on factors including body of work, achievements, cultural impact, longevity, lyrics, and flow.
It’s important to note that such rankings are inherently subjective and can vary over time. For instance, a 2024 list by Nubia Magazine included artists like Cardi B and Travis Scott among the top ten rappers, reflecting the evolving nature of the genre and the emergence of new influential artists.
Ultimately, the “top” rappers can differ based on personal preferences, cultural contexts, and the specific criteria used for evaluation.