best rap tour names

The 20 greatest hip-hop tours of all time

Our ranking, inspired by all the great rap acts on the road this summer, is 100% correct

L ook around and it might feel like we’re in a golden age of rap tours.

Rhyme greats De La Soul recently finished a European tour billed The Gods of Rap with the legendary Public Enemy, Wu-Tang Clan and Gang Starr’s DJ Premier. And the summer concert season is set to feature even more high-profile hip-hop shows.

West Coast giant Snoop Dogg is headlining the Masters of Ceremony tour with such heavyweights as 50 Cent, DMX, Ludacris and The Lox. Lil Wayne is doing a string of solo gigs and will launch a 38-city tour with pop punk heroes blink-182 starting June 27. Stoner rap fave Wiz Khalifa will headline a 29-city trek on July 9. The reunited Wu-Tang Clan continue their well-received 36 Chambers 25th Anniversary Celebration Tour, and Cardi B will be barnstorming through the beginning of August.

With all this rap talent on the road, The Undefeated decided to take a crack at ranking the 20 greatest hip-hop tours of all time.

Our list was compiled using several rules: First and foremost, the headliners for every tour must be from the hip-hop/rap genre. That means huge record-breaking, co-headlining live runs such as Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s On the Run II Tour were not included, given Queen Bey’s rhythm and blues/pop leanings. We also took into account the cultural and historical impact of each tour. Several artists, ranging from Run-DMC and Salt-N-Pepa to MC Hammer and Nicki Minaj, were included because they broke new ground, beyond how much their tours grossed. For years, hip-hop has battled the perception that it doesn’t translate well to live performance. This list challenges such myopic ideas.

With only 20 spots, some of rap’s most storied live gigs had to be left off the list. Many were casualties of overlap, such as Run-DMC and the Beastie Boys’ memorable 1987 Together Forever Tour and the Sizzling Summer Tour ’90, which featured Public Enemy, Heavy D & the Boyz, Kid ’n Play, Digital Underground and Queen Latifah. The 12-date Lyricist Lounge Tour, a 1998 showcase that featured Big Punisher, The Roots, De La Soul, Black Star, Common, Black Moon’s Buckshot and Fat Joe, also just missed the cut.

You may notice that Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. are missing from the list. But this was no momentary lapse of sanity. ’Pac’s and Biggie’s brief runs took place when rap shows were beginning to become a rarity, leaving most of their memorable stage moments to one-off shows. Dirty South royalty Outkast’s strongest live outing, when Big Boi and Andre 3000 reunited in 2014, was not included because it was less of a tour and more of a savvy festival run.

There are other honorable mentions: Def Jam Survival of the Illest Tour (1998), which featured DMX, the Def Squad, Foxy Brown, Onyx and Cormeg a; the Ruff Ryders/Cash Money Tour (2000); Anger Management 3 Tour with Eminem and 50 Cent (2005); J. Cole’s Dollar & A Dream Tour (2013); and Drake’s Aubrey & The Three Migos LIVE! tour (2018).

With that said, on with the show!

20. Pinkprint Tour (2015)

Nicki Minaj, featuring Meek Mill, Rae Sremmurd, Tinashe and Dej Loaf

The most lucrative hip-hop trek headlined by a woman also served as the coronation of Nicki Minaj as hip-hop’s newest queen. What made The Pinkprint Tour such a gloriously over-the-top affair was its seamless balance of dramatic Broadway-like theater, silly high jinks and a flex of artistic ferocity. One moment Minaj was in a black lace dress covering her eyes while mourning the loss of a turbulent union during “The Crying Game.” The next, she was backing up her memorable appearance on Kanye West’s “Monster” as the most wig-snatching guest verse of that decade. And the Barbz went wild.

Gross : $22 million from 38 shows

Kendrick Lamar performs during the Festival d’ete de Quebec on Friday, July 7, 2017, in Quebec City, Canada.

Amy Harris/Invision/AP

19. The Damn. Tour (2017-18)

Kendrick Lamar, featuring Travis Scott, DRAM and YG

When you have dropped two of the most critically lauded albums of your era in Good Kid, M.A.A.D City (2012) and To Pimp a Butterfly (2015), there’s already an embarrassment of riches to pull from for any live setting. But Kendrick Lamar understood that to live up to his bold “greatest rapper alive” proclamation he also needed populist anthems to turn on the masses. The Damn. album and world tour presented just that, as he led his followers each night in an elevating rap-along. It kicked off with a martial arts film, a cheeky nod to Lamar’s Kung Fu Kenny alter ego, before launching into the chest-beating “DNA.”

Gross: More than $62.7 million from 62 shows

Drake and Future performing on stage during The Summer Sixteen Tour at AmericanAirlines Arena on Aug. 30, 2016 in Miami.

Getty Images

18. Summer Sixteen Tour (2016)

Drake and Future

This mammoth, co-headlining tour was a no-brainer: Drake, the hit-making heartthrob, Canada’s clap-back native son and part-time goofy Toronto Raptors superfan. And Future, the self-anointed Atlanta Trap King, gleeful nihilist and producer, whose slapping, codeine-addled bars made him a controversial figure on and off record. The magic of this yin/yang pairing shined brightest when they teamed up to perform such tracks as “Jumpman” and “Big Rings” off their industry-shaking 2015 mixtape What a Time to Be Alive . When the smoke settled, Drake and Future walked away with the highest-earning hip-hop tour of all time.

Gross : $84.3 million from 54 shows

From left to right, Sandra ‘Pepa’ Denton, DJ Spinderella and Cheryl ‘Salt’ James perform on stage.

17. Salt-N-Pepa Tour (1988)

Featuring Keith Sweat, Heavy D & the Boyz, EU, Johnny Kemp, Full Force, Kid ’n Play and Rob Base

It may seem preposterous in this outspoken, girl-power age of Cardi B, Lizzo, Megan Thee Stallion, Kash Doll, Young M.A, Tierra Whack and City Girls, but back in the early ’80s, the thought of a “female” rhyme group anchoring a massive tour seemed out of reach. That was before the 1986 debut of Salt-N-Pepa, the pioneering group who’s racked up a plethora of groundbreaking moments and sold more than 15 million albums. The first female rap act to go platinum ( Hot, Cool & Vicious ) and score a Top 20 hit on the Billboard 200 (“Push It”), Salt-N-Pepa led a diverse, arena-hopping showcase that gave the middle finger to any misogynistic notions. And Salt, Pepa and DJ Spinderella continue to be road warriors. They’re currently on New Kids on the Block’s arena-packing Mixtape Tour.

Encore: Opening-act standouts Heavy D & the Boyz would co-headline their own tour the following year off the platinum success of their 1989 masterpiece Big Tyme .

16. Glow in the Dark Tour (2008)

Kanye West, featuring Rihanna, N.E.R.D, Nas, Lupe Fiasco and Santigold

Yes, Kanye West has had more ambitious showings (2013-14’s button-pushing Yeezus Tour) and more aesthetically adventurous gigs (the 2016 Saint Pablo Tour featured a floating stage, which hovered above the audience). But never has the Chicago-born visionary sounded so hungry, focused and optimistic than he did on his first big solo excursion, the Glow in the Dark Tour.

Before the Kardashian reality-show level freak-outs and MAGA hat obsessing, West was just a kid who wanted to share his spacey sci-fi dreamscape with the public, complete with a talking computerized spaceship named Jane. Even the rotating opening acts — topped off by the coolest pop star on the planet, Rihanna — were ridiculously talented.

Gross : $30.8 million from 49 shows

15. I Am Music Tour (2008-09)

Lil Wayne, featuring T-Pain and Keyshia Cole

Between 2002 and 2007, Young Money general Lil Wayne was hip-hop’s hardest-working force of nature, releasing an astounding 16 mixtapes. Then Weezy broke from the pack with the massively successful I Am Music Tour. The bulk of Lil Wayne’s 90-minute set was propelled by his career-defining 2008 album Tha Carter III , which by the show’s second leg had already sold 2 million copies. By the time T-Pain joined the New Orleans spitter for a playful battle of the featured acts, Lil Wayne’s takeover was complete.

Gross : $42 million from 78 shows

MC Hammer, performing on stage in 1990, had a large entourage for his Hammer Don’t Hurt ’Em Tour.

14. Hammer Don’t Hurt ’Em Tour (1990-91)

MC Hammer, featuring En Vogue and Vanilla Ice

With 15 background dancers, 12 singers, seven musicians, two DJs, eight security men, three valets and a private Boeing 727 plane, MC Hammer’s world tour was eye-popping. Rap fans had never seen anything of the magnitude of the Hammer Don’t Hurt ’Em stadium gigs, which recalled Parliament-Funkadelic’s army-size traveling heyday in the 1970s.

Each night the Oakland, California, dancing machine, born Stanley Burrell, left pools of sweat onstage as if he was the second coming of James Brown. If the sight of more than 30 folks onstage doing the Running Man, with MC Hammer breaking into his signature typewriter dance during “U Can’t Touch This,” didn’t make you get up, you should have checked your pulse.

Gross : $26.3 million from 138 shows

13. Things Fall Apart! Tour (1999)

Each gig was a revelation. This was no surprise given that Philadelphia hip-hop collective The Roots, formed by longtime friends drummer Questlove and lead lyricist Black Thought, had a reputation for being unpredictable. Still, it’s ironic that a group known for being the ultimate road warriors — they were known for touring 45 weeks a year before becoming the house band on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in 2014 — is represented on this list by one of their shortest tours.

But the brilliant Things Fall Apart club and hall sprint, which took place throughout March 1999, proved to be an epic blitz fueled by the band’s most commercially lauded material to date, Questlove’s steady percussive heart and the inhuman breath control of Black Thought.

Encore: Neo soul diva Jill Scott, who co-wrote The Roots’ breakout single “You Got Me,” gave fans an early taste of her artistry as she joined the band onstage for some serious vocal workouts.

12. House of Blues’ Smokin’ Grooves Tour (1996)

The Fugees, Cypress Hill, A Tribe Called Quest, Busta Rhymes, Ziggy Marley and Spearhead

While gangsta rap was topping the charts, the hip-hop industry faced a bleak situation on the touring front. Concert promoters were scared to book “urban” acts in large venues. Enter the House of Blues’ Kevin Morrow and Cara Lewis, the booking agent who achieved mythic status when she received a shout-out on Eric B. & Rakim’s 1987 anthem “Paid in Full.” The pair envisioned a Lollapalooza-like tour heavy on hip-hop and good vibes. The first ’96 incarnation came out of the gate with Haitian-American rap trio The Fugees, multiplatinum weed ambassadors Cypress Hill, A Tribe Called Quest and Busta Rhymes.

Encore: The series, which has also featured Outkast, The Roots, Lauryn Hill, Gang Starr, The Pharcyde, Foxy Brown and Public Enemy, is credited with opening the door for a return to more straight-ahead hip-hop tours led by Jay-Z, DMX and Dr. Dre.

Kanye West (left) and Jay-Z (right) perform in concert during the Watch The Throne Tour, Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011, in East Rutherford, N.J.

11. Watch the Throne Tour (2011-12)

Jay-Z and Kanye West

In better times, Jay-Z and Kanye West exhibited lofty friendship goals we could all aspire to, with their bromance popping on the platinum album Watch the Throne. Before their much-publicized fallout, Jay-Z and West took their act on the road for the mother of all double-bill spectacles.

Two of hip-hop’s greatest traded classics such as the ominous “Where I’m From” (Jay-Z) and soaring “Jesus Walks” (West) from separate stages on opposite sides of the venue. Those lucky enough to catch the tour can still recall the dream tag team launching into their encore of “N—as in Paris” amid roars from thousands of revelers.

Gross : $75.6 million from 63 shows

10. The Miseducation Tour (1999)

Lauryn Hill, featuring Outkast

In 1998, Lauryn Hill wasn’t just the best woman emcee or the best emcee alive and kicking. The former standout Fugees member was briefly the voice of her generation as she rode the multiplatinum, multi-Grammy success of her solo debut The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill . By February 1999, it was time to take the show on the road. Hill and her 10-piece band went beyond the hype, especially when they tore through a blistering take of the heartbreaking “Ex-Factor.”

Encore: Outkast (Atlantans Andre 3000 and Big Boi) rocked the house backed by some conspicuous props, including two front grilles of a Cadillac and a throwback Ford truck, kicked off their own headlining Stanklove theater tour in early 2001.

9. No Way Out Tour (1997-98)

Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs, Lil’ Kim, Ma$e, Busta Rhymes, Foxy Brown, 112, The Lox, Usher, Kid Capri, Lil’ Cease and Jay-Z

The Los Angeles Times headline spoke volumes: “Combs to Headline Rare Rap Tour.” Combs, of course, is Sean “Diddy” Combs, the music, fashion, television and liquor mogul who Forbes estimates now has a net worth of $820 million. But back then, the hustler formerly known as Puff Daddy was struggling to keep his Bad Boy Records afloat after the March 9, 1997, murder of Brooklyn, New York, rhyme king The Notorious B.I.G.

But out of unspeakable tragedy rose Combs’ chart-dominating No Way Out album and an emotional all-star tour. Despite suggestions that large-scale rap shows were too much of a financial gamble, Puffy rallied the Bad Boy troops and a few close friends and proved the naysayers wrong. The No Way Out Tour was both a cathartic exercise and a joyous celebration of life. “It’s All About the Benjamins” shook the foundation of every building as Combs, The Lox and a show-stealing Lil’ Kim made monetary excess look regal. And the heartfelt Biggie tribute “I’ll Be Missing You,” which was performed live at the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards, had audiences in tears.

Gross: $16 million

Rap stars, from left, Redman, foreground, DMX, Method Man and Jay-Z join host DJ Clue, background left, in a photo session on Jan. 26, 1999, in New York, after announcing their 40-city Hard Knock Life Tour beginning Feb. 27, in Charlotte, N.C.

AP Photo/Kathy Willens

8. Hard Knock Life Tour (1999)

Jay-Z, featuring DMX, Redman and Method Man

Jay-Z stands now as hip-hop’s most bankable live draw. In 2017, the newly minted billionaire’s 4:44 Live Nation production pulled in $44.7 million, becoming America’s all-time highest-grossing solo rap jaunt. It’s a long way from the days of Jay-Z lumbering through performances in a bulletproof vest when he was last off the bench on Puff Daddy’s No Way Out Tour.

Surely the seeds of Jay-Z’s evolution as a concert staple were first planted on his Hard Knock Life Tour, which was documented in the 2000 film Backstage . This was a confident, full-throated Shawn Carter, and he would need every ounce of charisma, with Ruff Ryders lead dog DMX enrapturing fans as if he were a Baptist preacher at a tent revival and the duo of Redman and Method Man rapping and swinging over crowds from ropes attached to moving cranes. What a gig.

Gross : $18 million

Flavor Flav (left) and Chuck D (right) of the rap group Public Enemy perform onstage in New York in August 1988.

7. Bring the Noise Tour (1988)

Public Enemy and Ice-T, featuring Eazy-E & N.W.A. and EPMD

There has always been a controlled chaos to a Public Enemy live show. Lead orator Chuck D jolted the crowd with a ferocity over the intricate, combustible production of the Bomb Squad while clock-rocking Flavor Flav, the prototypical hype man, jumped and zigzagged across the stage.

DJ Terminator X cut records like a cyborg and never smiled. And Professor Griff and the S1Ws exuded an intimidating, paramilitary presence. Armed with their 1988 watershed black nationalist work, It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back , an album many music historians consider to be the pinnacle hip-hop statement, Public Enemy spearheaded arguably the most exciting rap tour ever conceived.

Encore: Along for the wild ride was the godfather of West Coast rap, Ice-T, who was putting on the rest of the country to Los Angeles’ violent Crips and Bloods gang wars with the too-real “Colors.” N.W.A. was just about to set the world on fire with their opus Straight Outta Compton. Eazy-E, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, MC Ren and DJ Yella unleashed a profanity-laced declaration of street knowledge that was instantly slapped with parental advisory stickers. And Erick and Parrish were making dollars with their rough and raw EPMD joint Strictly Business .

6. Nitro World Tour (1989-90)

LL Cool J, featuring Public Enemy, Eazy E & N.W.A., Big Daddy Kane, Too $hort, EPMD, Slick Rick, De La Soul and Special Ed

But not even LL Cool J was ready for the monster that was N.W.A. The self-proclaimed World’s Most Dangerous Group completely hijacked the spotlight when N.W.A. was warned by officials not to perform their controversial track “F— the Police” at Detroit’s Joe Louis Arena. A minute into the song, cops stormed the stage and shut down Eazy-E and crew’s volatile set, a wild scene that was later re-created in the 2015 N.W.A. biopic Straight Outta Compton .

Encore: A few months before the Detroit gig, N.W.A. was booed during a Run-DMC show at New York’s Apollo Theater. “We all had watched Showtime at the Apollo , so we all knew if it went bad what was gonna happen,” Ice Cube explained on the Complex story series What Had Happened Was … “We hit the stage, and as soon as they saw the Jheri curls, all you heard was ‘Boo!’ I mean, before we even got a line out, they was booin’. I guess they just wasn’t feeling the Jheri curls.”

Rappers Christopher “Kid” Reid and Christopher “Play” Nolan of Kid ‘n Play perform onstage during “The World’s Greatest Rap Show Ever” on Jan. 3, 1992 at Madison Square Garden in New York.

5. The World’s Greatest Rap Show Ever (1991-92)

Public Enemy, DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Geto Boys, Kid ’n Play, Naughty by Nature, A Tribe Called Quest, Leaders of the New School and Oaktown’s 3.5.7.

Props to the promoter who put together this awesome collection of hip-hop firepower for a tour that at least aimed to live up to its tagline. What stands out the most was the early acknowledgment of rap’s reach beyond the East and West coasts. The significance of including Houston’s Geto Boys, for instance, cannot be overstated.

Scarface, Willie D and Bushwick Bill carried the flag for Southern hip-hop, winning over skeptical concertgoers with their raw dissection of ’hood paranoia, “ Mind Playing Tricks on Me ,” which had become a favorite on Yo! MTV Raps . Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince proved they could still rock the house with PG-rated material. (It helped that Will Smith had just begun the first season of NBC’s The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. ) Queen Latifah busted through the testosterone with the empowering “Ladies First.” And Naughty by Nature frequently knocked out the most crowd-pleasing set of the night with their promiscuous anthem “O.P.P.”

Encore: The World’s Greatest Rap Show Ever made its Jan. 3, 1992, stop at New York’s Madison Square Garden less than a week after nine people were fatally crushed at a hip-hop charity basketball game at City College of New York. Before Public Enemy’s powerful message of black self-determination, Heavy D, an organizer of the doomed event, made a plea for unity. Fans were certainly listening. The gig was a resounding, peaceful triumph.

LL Cool J performs at the Genesis Center in Gary, Indiana in December 1987.

Raymond Boyd/Getty Images

4. Def Jam Tour (1987)

LL Cool J, Whodini, Eric B. & Rakim, Doug E. Fresh and the Get Fresh Crew, and Public Enemy

From 1986 to 1992, New York’s Def Jam Records was the premier hip-hop label. Its roster of artists, which included Public Enemy, the Beastie Boys, EPMD and Slick Rick, was unparalleled in range and cultural dominance. So when it came time for partners Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin to spread the Def Jam gospel on its first international tour, the imprint’s biggest star, LL Cool J, was chosen to lead the way. And he didn’t disappoint.

James Todd Smith strutted out of a giant neon boombox sporting a Kangol hat, dookie rope gold chain and Adidas jacket. Of course, that jacket would soon be thrown to the floor as a shirtless Ladies Love Cool James tore through his ’85 single “Rock the Bells” as if it were the last song he would get to perform.

For many overseas, their first taste of American rap also included DJ Eric B. & Rakim, who were killing the streets with their 1987 masterpiece Paid In Full . Almost overnight in Germany, France, Norway and the Netherlands, hip-hop became the new religion.

Encore: This was the first proper world tour for Public Enemy, who had just dropped their 12-inch single “Rebel Without a Pause.” Although they were the opening act, Chuck D and his posse stole the show, establishing their standing as global behemoths. The now-legendary show at London’s Hammersmith Odeon can be heard throughout It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back .

The Up In Smoke Tour in 2000 was a dream team bill, headed by producer Dr. Dre and featuring Eminem, Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg and more.

Photo by Ken Hively/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

3. Up In Smoke (2000)

Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, Eminem, Tha Dogg Pound, Warren G and Nate Dogg, and Xzibit

The multimillion-dollar stage design put the concert industry on notice that not only could rap shows attain the lavish production values of the best rock shows, they could surpass them. It was also an emphatic statement that the largely West Coast rap dignitaries knew how to throw a party. And there still isn’t another hip-hop song that matches the first 20 seconds of Dre’s “Next Episode” in concert.

Gross : $22.2 million from 44 shows

2. Raising Hell Tour (1986)

Run-DMC, featuring LL Cool J, the Beastie Boys and Whodini

There’s a reason Run-DMC is hailed as the greatest live hip-hop act of its era. They understood that less is always more. Because of their stripped-down beats and rhymes, the group amplified the genius of every aspect of their concert presentation up to 11. Jam Master Jay’s scratching was more thunderous than the other DJs on the 1s and 2s. Run’s pay-me stage presence commanded respect. And D had the throat-grabbing voice of God. They wore Godfather hats, black jeans and shoelace-less Adidas sneakers. The Hollis, Queens, crew was the personification of cool.

LL Cool J was just 18 during the Raising Hell Tour, but he was coming after Run-DMC’s crown every night. The hotel-wrecking Beastie Boys co-piloted rap’s bum-rush into Middle America, scaring parents wherever they landed. And Whodini brilliantly straddled the line between electro funkateers and around-the-way dudes representing BK to the fullest.

As “Walk This Way,” Run-DMC’s genre-shifting Aerosmith collaboration, exploded on the pop charts, vaulting the Raising Hell album to 3 million copies sold (the first hip-hop album to go triple platinum), ticket sales followed. The 45-city tour affirmed hip-hop’s cultural takeover.

Encore: The image of Joseph Simmons commanding 20,000-plus fans to hold up their sneakers during a performance of “My Adidas” at a New York show is still a surreal sight.

1. Fresh Fest (1984)

Kurtis Blow, Run-DMC, Whodini, The Fat Boys, Newcleus & the Dynamic Breakers, New York City Breakers, Turbo and Ozone

Ricky Walker had an idea: The concert promoter wanted to put together the first national rap music and break-dancing tour. In 1984, hip-hop had moved on from its underground beginnings in the Bronx. Run-DMC had just dropped their self-titled debut, and their “ Rock Box ” became the first rap video to received play on MTV. Breakin’ , the first break dancing movie to hit the big screen, pulled in nearly $40 million at the box office on a minuscule $1.2 million budget. Walker saw the future.

He called New York impresario Simmons to tap some of his Rush Productions talent, which included heartthrob Brooklyn trio Whodini , rap’s first solo superstar Kurtis Blow, the comedic Fat Boys and, of course, the hottest hip-hop act in the country, Run-DMC. But when it came time to promote the first show, billed as the Swatch Watch NYC Fresh Fest Festival , in Greensboro, North Carolina, Walker was laughed out of the room by a radio ad man.

Rap was still viewed by many record industry power brokers as a passing fad. In a 1985 interview with Billboard magazine, Walker recalled the salesperson pleading with him. “You’re a friend of mine,” he said. “Can’t I talk you out of doing this show?”

Walker’s instincts, however, proved to be dead-on. Fresh Fest moved 7,500 tickets in four hours. The tour, which also featured some of the best street dancers on the planet, such as Breakin’ stars Boogaloo Shrimp and Shabba Doo, as well as the synth funk-rap group Newcleus, not only did brisk business at mid-level venues but also sold out 20,000-seat arenas in Chicago and Philadelphia. Like the pioneering rock ‘n’ roll shows of the ’50s conceived by Cleveland radio DJ Alan Freed, the Fresh Fest proved that rap could be a serious and profitable art form. The rest is hip-hop history.

Gross : $3.5 million

Keith "Murph" Murphy is a senior editor at VIBE Magazine and frequent contributor at Billboard, AOL, and CBS Local. The veteran journalist has appeared on CNN, FOX News and A&E Biography and is also the author of the men’s lifestyle book "Manifest XO."

Find Nicknames

Rap Name Generator

Are you an aspiring rapper struggling to find that perfect stage name? With many styles, themes, and inspiration sources, coming up with the perfect rapper name can feel like an uphill battle. Thankfully, you don’t have to worry anymore. Select your rap style, gender, or preferred themes, or input a personal keyword to personalize your ideal stage name and the AI-powered rap name generator will provide you with unique rap stage names.

How to Use the AI-Powered Rap Name Generator

AI-Powered Name Generation : This rap name generator leverages advanced AI algorithms to curate unique and memorable stage names tailored to your preferences.

Customizable Prompts : Select your desired rap style, gender, or themes, or input personal keywords to guide the generation process.

Generate and Select : Click ‘Generate’ and browse through the results. Use the love symbol to favorite the nicknames you resonate with the most.

Email Delivery : Send your selected rapper names to your email inbox for easy access and reference.

Copy All to Clipboard : With a single click, copy all the generated names currently in view to your clipboard for pasting into messages, notes, or anywhere else.

Load More Results : Explore more name options by clicking the ‘Load More’ button.

Alphabetical Sorting : Organize your results by alphabetizing the nicknames with the ‘Sort’ feature.

Selected Nicknames

• Environment
• Openings & Closings
• Restaurant Guide
• Restaurant Reviews
• Top 100 Bars
• Top 100 Restaurants

Concert Reviews

• Concert Calendar
• Local Music
• Observer Burger Week
• Observer The Morning After Brunch Event
• Observer Tacolandia
• Arts & Entertainment
• Food & Drink
• Shopping & Services
• Sports & Recreation
• Readers' Choice
• Newsletters
• Advertise with Us
• Flipbook Archive
• Promotions & Free Stuff
• Where To Find Dallas Observer In Print
• Sign Up/Sign In

The Greatest Tour Names of All Time

Newsletter Sign Up

Enter your name, zip code, and email, sign up for our newsletters.

Green Day, Alanis, Maggie Rogers: The DFW Concert Guide to Live Nation's $25 Ticket Sale

By Vanessa Quilantan

Even the Weather Showed Up for Sleep Token in Irving Saturday Night

By David Fletcher

Dallas Musicians Mourn the Loss of Iconic Record Producer Steve Albini

Remember When Drake and Kendrick Lamar Performed Together in Arlington? We Do.

By Carly May Gravley

• View This Week's Print Issue
• Arts & Culture
• Things to Do
• Observer Events
• Advertise With Us
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Voice Media Group
• Denver Westword
• New Times Broward-Palm Beach
• Miami New Times
• Phoenix New Times
• V Audience Labs
• V Digital Services

• Original Content

The Biggest Hip Hop Tours Of All Time

With the Covid-19 pandemic proving that live shows are still the lifeblood of hip-hop, we're looking at the biggest hip hop tours to date.

The biggest hip hop tours of all time serve as a key reminder as to how crucial concerts are to the hip hop genre. As we continually move towards a digital era, concerts remain the lifeblood of artists' livelihoods. The Covid-19 pandemic shied a visible light on this, as complaints surrounding streaming revenue for artists became even louder during the pandemic. Essentially, the music industry realized that the hard-earned money of fans looking to see their favorite artist live was still the hallmark source of revenue for artists and music companies alike.

The pandemic left artists lost as they scrambled to figure out other sources of revenue to keep their image relevant. In addition, many struggled to find meaning in their work because they may never be able to display it to a live crowd. In essence, tours remain an essential aspect of the music industry. This is especially the case for hip hop, where the energy of many tracks is best conveyed in a live setting. Take a Playboi Carti set, where fans lose their minds to "Rockstar Made" while shoving each other in a mosh pit. We're looking back on the highest-earning tours in hip-hop history.

1. Kendrick Lamar - Mr. Morale And The Big Steppers (2023)

Kendrick Lamar's Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers tour has officially become the highest-grossing tour in hip-hop history. In fact, it's the highest-grossing tour by far. Going nationwide, the tour garnered $110 million in revenue across 73 shows. His fifth studio album was his most anticipated yet, as he returned from a five-year hiatus from music. Lamar was as introspective as ever, delving into his personal biases and rapping about the demons of Compton life that still live within him. However, Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers also has plenty of crowd-including bangers such as "N95" and "Silent Hill."

2. Drake - Aubrey & The Three Migos (2018)

Drake and The Migos were arguably at their respective peaks in 2018. Amidst the rollout of Scorpion , Drake's "God's Plan" and "In My Feelings" took over the internet. The Migos had just released Culture II, the follow-up to their highly successful Culture debut. The two titans coming together would always generate one of the biggest hip-hop tours to date. The tour innovated the performance setting for hip-hop artists. Drake decided to switch things up by performing in the middle of the stadium on a raised, rectangular platform rather than a traditional stage. Darting from corner to corner, the Toronto-based MC was tasked will keeping all four sides of the crowd engaged. The increased fan accessibility was a hit, making Aubrey & The Three Migos the second highest-grossing tour of all time.

3. Drake & Future - Summer Sixteen (2016)

Views ran the summer of 2016. From the iconic dance grooves such as "Hotline Bling" and "One Dance," it only made sense for Drake to top off the album with a nationwide tour of the record. He counteracted the smooth grooves of Views for the Summer Sixteen Tour by collaborating with Future. Naturally, much of the What a Time to Be Alive mixtape was performed throughout the tour. Generating over $84 million across 56 dates, the tour dethroned the Watch the Throne tour for the highest-grossing hip-hop tour ever.

4. Kanye West & Jay-Z - Watch the Throne (2011)

Kanye West and Jay-Z were the two hip hop kingpins in the early 2010s. The two shifted the sound of hip hop, a process that began all the way back to The Blueprint. Ye's notoriety as a producer grabbed the attention of Jay-Z, who worked with him throughout much of the project. This would kick off a decade-long slew of collaborations, which would peak with Watch the Throne . The two would parlay the hit record into the most successful hip hop tour to date, grossing $75 million. Featuring striking visual elements and seamless crowd control, the two set the bar for other performing MCs to live up to.

5. Kendrick Lamar - DAMN . (2017)

Even for Kendrick Lamar's humble and melancholic personality, he's still established himself as one of the most in-demand touring artists. While he most recently proved this with the Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers tour, Kendrick Lamar's DAMN . was his most commercially successful record to date. Featuring bangers such as "DNA" and "Humble," his fourth studio album was his most expensive-sounding project. Lamar explored his journey from the streets of Compton to the limelight on the project. He's keenly aware of his faults in a record that, similar to Tyler, the Creator's Igor , was sequenced as a perfect thematic loop. DAMN .'s success was inevitably reflected in the project's tour , which grossed over $40 million in North America alone.

• biggest hip hop tours
• hip hop tours
• Kendrick Lamar
• Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers

Rap / Hip-Hop Concert Tours

Top Tours · Just Announced · USA · Europe · 2025 Tours

Terms of Service · Privacy and Cookie Policy · Contact © Concertful

• All Drake and K-Dot's Diss Tracks
• Buy XXL Store Merch
• Reactions to Drake's "The Heart Part 6"
• Gunna's Exclusive Interview With XXL

A Guide to Rappers Touring in 2023

In the world of hip-hop , the prevailing theme for the summer of 2023 appears to be "outside," emphasizing the excitement of experiencing live music and concerts.

While Beyoncé's Renaissance Tour  has dominated the summer conversation, hip-hop's heavyweight artists are are connecting with their fans in person. Although these may not be the first tours since the global impact of Covid-19, they could very well be the first opportunity for fans to witness their beloved rappers live since 2019. Rest assured, rap fans are covered with comprehensive coverage of all the exciting hip-hop tours happening this summer and into the fall.

Drake and 21 Savage  have been on their highly anticipated It's All a Blur Tour  all summer, in support of their 2022 album, Her Loss . Earlier this year,  Drake gave fans an intimate show at the Apollo Theater in Harlem , as well as a performance at J. Cole's Dreamville Festival  back in April. However, this tour marks his first co-headlining venture since the 2018 Aubrey & the Three Migos Tour , making it an exciting return to the stage for the acclaimed artist. Drake not only brings his extensive history of hits from his previous albums to the stage, but he's also been teasing his upcoming For All the Dogs album .

Celebrating the 20-year milestone of his iconic album, Get Rich or Die Tryin' , 50 Cent  has embarked on a 64-date tour for fans. Joining him on tour is legendary rhymer  Busta Rhymes and singer Jeremih .

Lil Baby  has also hit the stage for his  It's Only Us Tour , where he's joined by a lineup including GloRilla , Gloss Up ,  Rylo Rodriguez  and Hunxho.

Check out the gallery below for more anticipated hip-hop tours this past summer and for the rest of the year.

See the Guide to Rappers Touring in 2023

More from xxl.

Sign up for our email newsletter

• Past Winners

2022 Top Rap Tour

2020 Top Rap Tour

2019 Top Rap Tour

2018: Top Rap Tour

2017: Top Rap Tour

2024 ® & © dick clark productions, llc.

Privacy Policy  | Terms of Use | Do Not Sell My Info | Cookie Settings

• Manage Account

50 Greatest Rap Groups of All Time

Billboard counts down the best hip-hop groups ever in honor of the genre's 50th anniversary.

• Share this article on Facebook
• Share this article on Twitter
• Share this article on Flipboard
• Share this article on Pinit
• + additional share options added
• Share this article on Tumblr
• Share this article on Reddit
• Share this article on Linkedin
• Share this article on Whatsapp
• Share this article on Email
• Print this article
• Share this article on Comment

Doubly heightened by this year’s celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, June/Black Music Month is racing ahead with a roar. And  Billboard  is doing the same today (June 28) as we post the final top 10 in our ranking of the 50 Greatest Rap Groups of All Time.

As with our inaugural golden anniversary salute, the 50 Greatest Rappers of All Time , the rap groups reveal is rolling out in 10 weekly increments. Having kicked off May 31 with rankings 50-41, we move forward this week with 10-1. 

In determining these rankings, the  Billboard  editorial team again took the following criteria into account, not in any specific order: body of work/achievements (charted singles/albums, gold/platinum certifications, other awards), cultural impact/influence (how the group’s work fostered the genre’s evolution), longevity (years at the mic), lyrics (storytelling skills) and flow (vocal prowess). Our definition of groups includes duos, proper groups and more nebulous collectives. Most notably, Inclusion on this list is based on the accomplishments of the group as a unit — not what the individuals may have separately accomplished. We tried to walk the line between what constitutes a group versus a collective or a crew, though at times that was not entirely clear.

It bears repeating that this undertaking wasn’t handled lightly. It took much deliberation and even deeper discussions to reason our way to what we believe is a well-thought-out, authentic list that reflects hip-hop’s foundational pioneers, evolutionary trailblazers and contemporary disruptors.The selected groups also encompass 50 years of cultural milestones for a genre initially dismissed as a passing fad — and now recognized as the industry’s  market share leader .

So let’s see what industry and fan debates get fired up, as the final curtain raises on Nos. 10-1 of  Billboard ’s 50 Greatest Rap Groups of All Time. 

Thanks to their hard-nosed demeanor and gruff wordplay, Brooklyn duo M.O.P. — rappers Lil Fame and Billy Danze — have proven their status on the East Coast circuit for more than 25 years. For 1998 album   First Family 4 Life , they secured rap stalwarts such as Jay-Z, Gang Starr and Naughty By Nature’s Treach and enlisted DJ Premier’s production prowess. In 2000, the pair reached their apex with their biggest hit to date, “Ante Up.” The bombastic track was a gumbo of brash energy and explosive production, a classic which later morphed into an even more indelible remix featuring Busta Rhymes, Remy Ma and Teflon.  — CARL LAMARRE

49. Black Star

Proud descendants of the Black cultural and human experience, Brooklynites Mos Def and Talib Kweli stood as inheritors of the grand hip-hop tradition. They were also representative of artists rejecting the overt violence characterizing the Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac era of hip-hop. Taking their name from Black activist Marcus Garvey — and sprinkling references to Black music icons like Slick Rick, Erykah Badu and Gil Scott-Heron into their free-flowing bars/rhymes — they broke through with 1998’s Mos Def & Talib Kweli Are Black Star . The critically adored set was a crystal-clear distillation of that late-’90s sentiment, presented by two lyrically deft MCs and flow innovators, containing layers that still deliver new insights 25 years later. A follow-up album finally arrived in 2022 — but even if their output was limited to just that first, singular document, Black Star deserves its place in the pantheon. — DAN RYS

48. City Girls

Longtime best friends Yung Miami and JT joined forces in the late 2010s to become rap’s rambunctious It-girls. The City Girls effused their addictive IDGAF energy through ratchet, bass-bumping club anthems filled with charismatic, cocksure bars about using men for money and splurging on name brands. “F–k that Netflix and chill – what’s your net-net-net worth?” Yung Miami rapped on Drake’s Billboard Hot 100-topping “In My Feelings,” for one of the group’s biggest crossover moments. Since then, the two have continuously promoted uncensored, sex-positive rap through platinum singles like “P—y Talk,” while expanding their storytelling skills into TV by executive producing Issa Rae’s HBO series Rap Sh!t . — HERAN MAMO

47. Rae Sremmurd

From the beginning, Rae Sremmurd had their creative formula down pat: Swae Lee floating across melodies; Slim Jxmmi croaking out pummeling bars. Together, the Tupelo, Miss. sibling duo specialized in hypnotically minimal party-starters like “No Flex Zone” and “No Type.” Yet Rae Sremmurd transcended their initial blueprint by evolving alongside each other — hits like “Powerglide” and the Hot 100-topping “Black Beatles” stretched outward while folding in guests Gucci Mane and Juicy J, respectively. And they also evolved separately, as 2018’s  SR3MM  gave Swae and Jxmmi their own solo albums, while a joint third disc plugged back into the duo’s powerful chemistry. — JASON LIPSHUTZ

46. Ying Yang Twins

The Ying Yang Twins reigned supreme over nightclubs, radio stations and middle school dances of the early 21st century after their 2000 debut single, “Whistle While You Twurk.” The Atlanta duo – consisting of  not- brothers Kaine and D-Roc – followed that breakthrough with an epic string of party singles and collaborations: “Salt Shaker,” “Wait (The Whisper Song),” “Shake” with Pitbull and their unforgettable feature on Lil Jon & the East Side Boyz’s game-changer “Get Low.” The Ying Yang Twins’ crossover success was so undeniable that even pop princess Britney Spears enlisted the pair for her hip-hop-flavored In the Zone deep cut “(I Got That) Boom Boom.” With their gritty chants, earworm hooks and iconic ad-libs (“Ah, up!”), Kaine and D-Roc’s role in bringing southern crunk to the mainstream remains unequivocal. — NEENA ROUHANI

45. Pete Rock & CL Smooth

They only recorded together for four years, but Mount Vernon, New York’s Pete Rock & CL Smooth left an indelible imprint on ’90s hip-hop. Rock’s mix of tight drums and inspired funk, R&B and jazz crate-digging made his production style one of the standard-bearers for East Coast rap. That combined with CL’s dexterous, commanding and soulful flows made sets like breakout 1991 EP  All Souled Out  and all-killer 1992 debut LP  Mecca and Soul Brother  among the most essential listens of their era. The duo’s signature song remains an absolute all-timer: “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.),” an impossibly poignant, smiling-through-the-tears elegy for late Heavy D & The Boyz dancer “Trouble T. Roy” Dixon — raised to the heavens by the greatest sax loop in rap history. — ANDREW UNTERBERGER

44. Kris Kross

Who knew that wearing clothes backwards could ever become a thing? It did in 1992 when Atlanta duo Kris Kross bounced onto the scene with the effervescent “Jump.” Its eight-week stand atop the Hot 100 — the first rap record to reign for that long — coupled with its success around the globe made for an early portent of hip-hop’s current worldwide popularity. Discovered by producer Jermaine Dupri and signed to Ruffhouse/Columbia, young teens and best friends Chris “Mac Daddy” Kelly (who died in 2013) and Chris “Daddy Mac” Smith turned their switched-around nicknames into a fashion statement that millions of fans eagerly adopted. In addition to “Jump,” Kris Kross’s short but estimable run through 1996 included crossover hits “Warm It Up” and “Tonite’s Tha Night” and platinum albums Totally Krossed Out and Da Bomb — helping pave the way for Bow Wow and other young rap stars. — GAIL MITCHELL

43. Kid 'N Play

“The Kid’s much more than hair and a smile” raps the hi-top fade-rocking half of Kid ‘N Play in 1990’s surprise hit film  House Party. Even if skeptics saw the party-rap duo as too safe and friendly at a time when gangsta rappers were firing shots heard ‘round the world, the NYC duo’s impact on culture was undeniable.  House Party  (the first in the film series) set the template for rappers eyeing the silver screen, while their easygoing flow and relatable raps on lightly funky classics like “Rollin’ With Kid ‘N Play” and Hot Rap Songs No. 1s “Ain’t Gonna Hurt Nobody” and “Funhouse” influenced future crossover success stories like Flo Rida and The Black Eyed Peas. Plus, in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, few (if any) rappers could boast a buzzier fashion aesthetic. — JOE LYNCH

42. Heavy D & The Boyz

Rapper Dwight “Heavy D” Myers & The Boyz (dancers/hype men Glen “G. Whiz” Parrish and Troy “Trouble T. Roy” Dixon; in-house producer Edward “DJ Eddie F” Ferrell) was another ‘90s hip-hop group — the first signed to Uptown, future home of Notorious B.I.G. and Mary J. Blige — that percolated on uplifting, feel-good party vibes and smooth dance moves. After Heavy’s guest feature on hit singles by Levert (“Just Coolin’”) and Janet Jackson (“Alright”) in 1989, the rapper (also Pete Rock’s cousin) and his crew definitively proved “We Got Our Own Thang” that same year, with their first top 5 rap hit. The gentle giant — who died in 2011 — put his melodic flow and signature diddly-dee vocal riffs to good use on more party classics including “Somebody for Me,” “Got Me Waiting” and the R&B/pop crossover “Now That We Found Love.” — G.M.  

41. Little Brother

North Carolina fixtures 9th Wonder, Phonte and Big Pooh lassoed the competition when they formed Little Brother in the early 2000s. The triumvirate boasted formidable wordsmiths in ‘Te and Pooh and a burgeoning producer in 9th, who earned his breakout moment when he produced Jay-Z’s 2003 The Black Album  standout “Threat.” LB’s first two albums, 2003’s  The Listening  and 2005’s  The Minstrel Show , won over a cult fanbase with lush production, scintillating skits and lyrical landmines planted by the group’s cerebral MCs, notably on “Lovin’ It” and “Speed.” Though 9th Wonder left before the group’s third album, 2009’s  Getback , ‘Te and Pooh’s unrelenting hunger remained intact through three more projects, including their 2019 gem May the Lord Watch. — C.L.  

Onyx’s penchant for sheer aggression and grimy raps made the group — spearheaded by Fredro Starr, Sticky Fingaz, Big DS and Suave — an indomitable four-headed monster in the early ’90s. Signed by Run-DMC’s legendary DJ Jam Master Jay, the quartet hit the ground running with 1993 debut album  Bacdafucup, powered by the rowdy Hot 100 top five smash “Slam.” Relishing stage dives and body slams in their live performance, the group’s raging solidarity – they all donned shaved heads – also gave New York rap an extra edge at a time when Wu-Tang Clan, Mobb Deep and A Tribe Called Quest began etching their paths as perennial mainstays. — C.L.  

39. Slum Village

Slum Village breathed life into the Midwest rap scene when it bubbled up in the 2000s with soul-grabbing lyrics and funky samples. Originally comprised of venerated beat maestro J. Dilla alongside rappers T-3 and Baatin, Slum Village rose within Detroit’s rap ranks following 2002’s  Trinity (Past, Present, and Future)  and 2004’s  Detroit Deli (A Taste of Detroit).  Unfortunately, Dilla, who exited the group in 2001 to pursue a solo career, died in 2006, while Baatin passed away three years later. However, the group still marched forward, after recruiting Elzhi, one of rap’s heralded rhymers, to join co-founder T-3 and Dilla’s younger brother IIIa J. The group’s notable later-era releases include 2010’s Villa Manifesto and 2015’s Yes!  — C.L.  

38. Big Tymers 

Cash Money co-founder Bryan “Birdman” Williams and the label’s former resident producer Mannie Fresh were also partnered in another impactful endeavor: Big Tymers. Hailing from New Orleans, the Big Tymers stepped onto the scene with 1997 debut album How You Luv That. But with the release of 2000 sophomore platinum set I Got That Work , the duo’s undeniable musical chemistry ignited massive hits — “#1 Stunna” featuring Juvenile and Lil Wayne, plus “Get Your Roll On” — that further entrenched their hometown’s distinct southern flavor within the rap mainstream. The Big Tymers scored a Billboard 200 chart-topper and a second platinum album in 2002 with Hood Rich, featuring the proud-to-be-broke anthem “Still Fly,” and released Big Money Heavyweight before parting ways in 2005. — N.R.

37. 8Ball & MJG 

Before the emergence of OutKast, Goodie Mob, Three 6 Mafia or Cash Money Records, there was 8Ball & MJG. The influential Memphis duo was among the originators and cornerstones of southern hip-hop, with arguably only the Geto Boys proving as influential in the first half of the ‘90s. Their 1993 debut,  Comin’ Out Hard , is an early classic of the region. But it wasn’t just that 8Ball & MJG was early, the pair was also inarguably great — both collectively and on their own — at the craft of rapping. Their longevity and influence were such that it wasn’t until 2005, when they joined fellow Tennessee group Three 6 Mafia for “Stay Fly,” that they reached their peak chart success. But almost every Southern rapper of the last 30 years is in their debt. — D.R.

36. Hieroglyphics 

“Rap ain’t about bustin’ caps and f–king b–ches / It’s about fluency with rhyming ingenuity,” rhymes Del the Funky Homosapien on Hieroglyphics’ spiky  3 rd  Eye Vision  highlight, “At the Helm.” That was a pointed statement in the gangsta rap–dominated landscape of 1998. Coming after Del and his Oakland, Calif., associates in Souls of Mischief found themselves dropped from their labels — despite releasing some of the most lyrically dexterous, musically adventurous and acclaimed hip-hop albums of the ‘90s — it might as well have been their manifesto. Forming their own label, Hieroglyphics Imperium, the Hieroglyphics collective became as much a group as it was a way of life for the devoted underground following the group fostered via touring and Internet fan engagement in the pre-social media era. — J. Lynch

35. The Pharcyde 

When The Pharcyde released debut album  Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde  in 1992, hip-hop hadn’t seen anything like it. The hilariously garrulous quartet of South Central Angelenos spun wild, cartoonish tales over jazzy live instrumentation, brittle funk drum breaks and turntable scratches. Trading NSFW, puerile insults (“Ya Mama”) one moment while offering wry social commentary the next (the diaristic account of racist cops on “Officer”; a discourse on hip-hop sellouts and phonies on “It’s J-ggaboo Time”), The Pharcyde came across like the wittiest smart-assess on the West Coast, if not America. The vibey, loquacious “Passin’ Me By” landed on the Hot 100, and follow-up LP  Labcabincalifornia  gave them two more Hot 100 hits. But the group’s real impact was through serving as a low-key, persistent Holy Grail for ensuing generations of rappers unafraid to think – and laugh – outside the box.  — J. Lynch  

34. Brand Nubian 

  Though the group came up as part of a rising wave of alternative hip-hop at the turn of the ’90s, Brand Nubian never totally fit into the DAISY Age, with their flavor of conscious hip-hop rooted in a more sober social reality. (Member Sadat X’s version of said reality would later veer  into outspoken prejudice , as unfortunately presaged in the homophobia of the group’s otherwise standard-bearing 1992 hit “Punks Jump Up to Get Beat Down.”) Still, Brand Nubian’s early output was sensational in more positive ways than controversial ones, with classic 1990 debut album  One for All in particular a mostly glorious melding of vibrant samples, thoughtful rhymes, keen pop instincts and a united energy befitting its title. — A.U.

33. Goodie Mob  

A quartet of ATLiens connected with producers Organized Noize and the larger Dungeon Family collective, Goodie Mob ran deeper and a little darker than their chart-topping compatriots in OutKast. Though Goodie Mob’s own crossover impact was a little more limited, they still scored three consecutive acclaimed (and RIAA gold-certified) ’90s albums in 1995’s  Soul Food , 1998’s  Still Standing  and 1999’s  World Party , while also notching two of the most unshakeable hits in southern hip-hop history with the tiptoeing menace of “Cell Therapy” and the stark soulfulness of “Black Ice (Sky High).” And with the higher-register rasp of Cee Lo Green, the group produced a breakout star who’d ultimately become one of the most prolific and versatile left-field pop artists of the early 21st century. — A.U.  

32. 2 Live Crew  

2 Live Crew courted major success — and controversy — when the Miami bass group unapologetically brought “nasty” to the mainstream in the late ‘80s. Then comprised of Luther “Luke” Campbell, Fresh Kid Ice, Mr. Mixx and Brother Marquis, the foursome first gained major attention with 1986 gold debut The 2 Live Crew Is What We Are, which featured titillating yet raunchy anthems like “Throw the D” and “We Want Some P—y.” Channeling more big-booty odes laced with uptempo, infectious beats and X-rated videos, the Crew’s 1989 third outing As Nasty as They Wanna Be pushed the boundaries of misogyny and sexual explicitness even further with hit single “Me So Horny.” In addition to going platinum, the album reached another pinnacle as well when it was declared legally obscene by the U.S. District Court in Florida. — NEFERTITI AUSTIN  

31. Boogie Down Productions  

Founded by genre trailblazers KRS-One and DJ Scott La Rock, with a collaborator lineup that included producer Lee Smith, DJ D-Nice and Ced Gee of the Ultramagnetic MC’s, this seminal group mapped an early blueprint for diss tracks (“The Bridge is Over”) and also pioneered the fusion of dancehall reggae and hip-hop (“9mm Goes Bang”) on their 1987 debut, Criminal Minded . LaRock’s murder six months later inspired KRS to deliver social commentary instead of gangsta rap street stories, and to also form the Stop the Violence Movement supergroup, which released the 1988 No. 1 rap hit “Self Destruction.” Subsequent albums, including that same year’s By Any Means Necessary, 1989’s Ghetto Mu sic and 1990’s Edutainment, each went gold. — RAQUELLE HARRIS  

30. Clipse  

The summer of 2002 was scorching, courtesy of Pharrell and his latest DMV partners, The Clipse. Though the duo came out in the ’90s, it wasn’t until 2002 when Virginia natives Pusha T and his brother No Malice (formerly Malice), shook the rap landscape with their thunderous anthem “Grindin’.” Doused with cocaine bars that made every corner boy smile, “Grindin” impacted cities from “ghetto to ghetto” and “backyard to yard” while having every middle school kid in America remake the classic Neptunes beat on lunch tables. Beyond “Grindin’,” the Thornton brothers’ dexterity and flash made their debut album (2002’s Lord Willin ‘) a beloved smash, while its grimier follow-up (2006’s Hell Hath No Fury ) became one of the decade’s most acclaimed rap albums. — C.L.

29. Gang Starr 

Rapper-producer duos rarely come with such high-quality, distinctive styles as Gang Starr. The Boston-Houston-Brooklyn connection of DJ Premier and Guru combined jazz-hop production with stylized street tales to create some of the most intricate hip-hop the world had yet seen when they burst out of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Premier is now rightly regarded as one of the greatest producers of all time, but it was his work with Guru that arguably got the best out of both of them, with the best evidence coming through the career-defining Step In the Arena (1991) and the influential Hard to Earn (1994) . – D.R.  

28. Geto Boys 

Simply put, the Geto Boys put Texas, and the South as a whole, on the map. Propelled by the group’s most consistent lineup — Scarface, Willie D and Bushwick Bill — they were innovators and trailblazers, the ones who introduced the world to Rap-A-Lot Records and the gangsta rap lyricism of Houston and paved the way for other Southern groups to follow. And the group’s signature song, their 1991 crossover hit “Mind Playing Tricks on Me,” remains one of the darkest, most vividly intense hip-hop songs of the past four decades. – D.R.  

27. DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince 

In West Philadelphia born and raised, disc jockey Jeff Townes and rapper Will Smith (known as DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince) softened hip-hop’s rough edges with lighthearted, narrative raps and dynamic turntablism — and, in doing so, made the genre fully accessible to mainstream audiences. Smith later became a household name when he starred in his own sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air , for which he and Townes (who had a recurring role) recorded the iconic theme song. DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince were ultimately responsible for several milestone moments in hip-hop, from releasing the first double album in the genre with 1988’s He’s the DJ, I’m the Rapper to earning the first-ever Grammy for best rap performance in 1989, with their breakout story song “Parents Just Don’t Understand.” — H.M.

  Straight outta Brentwood, N.Y., Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith teamed up as EPMD in the late ‘80s, two concrete-hard MCs who never suffered fools. They set a new template for the genre with their slow-cooked, deliberate flows, which carefully brought the hammer down on key syllables. Their minimalist DIY production proved wildly prescient: the duo bounced atop funk grooves well before G-funk’s commercial ascent, and delivered winking tweaks on pop radio hits well before Diddy. Their 1988 debut Strictly Business remains an ageless, unimpugnable classic; your mileage may vary on follow-up albums (all with “business” in the title) But 1992’s Business Never Personal is a brittle, uncompromising LP that produced their highest-charting track, “Crossover” (No. 42 on the Hot 100); ironically, it’s a testy takedown of rappers chasing mainstream success by dabbling in pop or R&B. — J. Lynch

25. Hot Boys 

The late-‘90s southern rap renaissance conversation isn’t complete without paying homage to the Hot Boys. Their 1999 sophomore album, Guerrilla Warfare , peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, catapulting the group – made up of Juvenile, Turk, B.G., and a 15-year-old Lil Wayne – into mainstream recognition. But before then, their debut independent set Get It How U Live! via Cash Money Records dominated locally, selling 400,000 copies and establishing the trio’s undeniable chemistry. Although the group disbanded in 2001, only four years following their formation, the influence of their sound (and the later success of Lil Wayne and Juvenile as solo stars) changed the trajectory of rap music forever. — N.R.

24. The Diplomats 

Harlem’s superteam of Cam’ron, Jim Juelz, Juelz Santana, and Freaky Zeeky wreaked havoc on the hip-hop game when they assembled to form The Diplomats in the early 2000s. Oozing with swagger, the East Coast version of the Four Horsemen trampled adversaries when they gathered on 2003’s Diplomatic Immunity. Powered by high-octane production from Just Blaze and The Heatmakerz, the Dipset crew doled out hood classics such as “I Really Mean It,” “Dipset Anthem” and “Real N—as,” and further cemented their grip on East Coast rap when they unleashed their sequel Diplomatic Immunity 2 the following year. — C.L.  

23. Sugarhill Gang 

Others were more influential, but maybe only Run-D.M.C. were more impactful among groups of hip-hop’s first 15 years than the Sugarhill Gang. “Rapper’s Delight” wasn’t technically the first hip-hop record, but it was the first most suburban Americans ever heard, and the first to cross over to the top 40, peaking at No. 36 on the Hot 100. With a disco groove borrowed from Chic’s “Good Times” (and some lyrics controversially swiped from Grandmaster Caz of the Cold Crush Brothers), the instant classic remains one of the most important and enduring records in American popular music, spawning countless quotes and mini-catchphrases that are still part of hip-hop’s shared language today. And while it remains the group’s signature song, subsequent hits “Apache” and “8th Wonder” were also iconic early-’80s party-starters, sampled and referenced for decades to come. — A.U.

22. The LOX 

Childhood friends Sheek Louch, Jadakiss and Styles P, were known for not only their cunning cadence and complementary craftsmanship, but brushing their own swagger on jams from pop titans J. Lo and Mariah Carey. They initially captured the spotlight on projects like Biggie’s Life After Death , Puff Daddy’s No Way Out and Ma$e’s Harlem World in 1997, before “Money, Power & Respect” — the Lil Kim- and DMX-featuring title anthem to their 1998 debut album — became a culture-shaping mentality. After parting ways with Bad Boy to join Ruff Ryders in 1999, the next year’s We Are the Streets brought gritty gems with “Ryde or Die, B–ch” (featuring Timbaland and Eve) and “Wild Out.” Their legacy was further cemented with a triumphant run against The Diplomats during their 2021 Verzuz , and a headline-making homecoming performance this June at Summer Jam 2023. — R.H.

21. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony 

Putting Cleveland on the hip-hop map, crooners and rhymers Bone Thugs-N-Harmony — comprised of Bizzy Bone, Wish Bone, Layzie Bone, Krayzie Bone and Flesh-n-Bone — first caught the ear of N.W.A’s Eazy-E in 1993. The quartet signed to Ruthless Records that year and enjoyed major breakouts with debut EP Creepin on ah Come Up in 1994 and first full-length E. 1999 Eternal in 1995. For over a decade, their unique style of gospel melodies, cinematic beats and a staccato lyrical flow made them a regular presence on the Hot 100, including the chart-topping “Tha Crossroads,” which spent eight weeks at No. 1 and earned the group their first Grammy. — N.A.

The duo, comprised of Bun B and Pimp C, may not have been the first great Houston rap group, but they came to define the city’s trunk-rattling grit with albums like 1996’s classic Ridin’ Dirty . The Underground Kings finally got their mainstream due by collaborating with Jay-Z on his crossover smash “Big Pimpin’” in 1999 (as well as Three 6 Mafia’s “Sippin’ on Some Syrup” the following year). Their greatest collab would come in 2007 with the OutKast-assisted “Int’l Players Anthem (I Choose You),” before Pimp C tragically died at age 33 from an overdose later that year. The duo’s influence extends even further than their output; artists from Kendrick Lamar to A$AP Rocky to Megan Thee Stallion regularly invoke their style, while Bun has become one of the true elder statesmen of the game. — D.R.  

19. G-Unit  

In some ways, the history of hip-hop can be seen through two lenses: the era before G-Unit and the era after. Led by 50 Cent, the crew’s classic core (50, Lloyd Banks, Tony Yayo and Young Buck) took the world by storm, utilizing an endless flow of mixtapes, beefs and cold, hard lyricism to effectively put the rap game in a chokehold from 2002 to 2007. Infighting — and changing times in hip-hop — ultimately led to the group’s undoing. But there are few true crew albums that can stand alongside 2003’s Beg for Mercy in terms of unfiltered, sneering bangers, with earworm hooks and verses dripping with braggadocio. At its height, the crew was everywhere: MTV, the charts, Reebok sneakers, G-Unit clothing lines and relentless street marketing campaigns that left no oxygen remaining for anyone else who tried to claim some of their rarified air. New York City — and hip-hop in general — has never been the same since. — D.R.  

18. Three 6 Mafia

One of the all-time cult hip-hop groups, Three 6 Mafia sprouted from early-‘90s Memphis and proceeded to spend the next two decades tearing the club up. Three 6 captivated at their turn-of-the-century peak with raunchy, aggro floor-fillers built around thunderous bellowing from MCs Gangsta Boo, Crunchy Black, Koopsta Knicca, Lord Infamous, DJ Paul and Juicy J – the latter two members also providing the group’s imposing, darkly cinematic beats. After setting the table for crunk’s early-‘00s takeover (and now back down to the trio of DJ Paul, Juicy J and Crunchy Black), they scored their biggest crossover smash alongside kindred spirits 8Ball & MJG with 2005’s stoner classic “Stay Fly,” and then made Oscar history the next year with their Hustle & Flow anthem “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp.” Sadly, all three of the group’s former members would die in their early 40s: Lord Infamous in 2013, Koopsta Knicca in 2015 and Gangsta Boo in 2023. – A.U.  

17. Cypress Hill

Cypress Hill took hip-hop higher on their self-titled 1991 debut, with the mind-bending boast tracks “How I Could Just Kill a Man” and “Hand on the Pump.” DJ Muggs’ inventive, pulsating production accentuated B-Real’s frenetic timbre and Sen-Dog’s grimy register as they promoted love for and legalization of cheeba long before cannabis became legal. Their bilingual lyricism broke barriers when 1993’s Black Sunday debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, featuring adrenalized hits like “Insane the Brain,” “I Ain’t Goin’ Out Like That,” “Hits from the Bong,” and percussionist Eric Bobo’s addition in 1994 amped up the group’s energy quotient. Cypress Hill also became the first Latino rap group to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.  — R.H.  

16. Beastie Boys 

Throughout their many iterations — from the party-rap shout-alongs of Licensed to Ill to the sample pastiche of Paul’s Boutique ; from the rap-rock action drama of “Sabotage” to the old-school wiggle of “Intergalactic” — Michael “Mike D” Diamond, Adam “MCA” Yauch and Adam “Ad-Rock” Horovitz loved two things: rapping and rapping alongside each other. These three Jewish white boys from New York City discovered a shared passion and unbreakable artistic bond in the mid-‘80s. Then they spent decades preserving their vision, squeezing out anthemic hooks between hilarious music videos and unforgettable industry pranks together, as their creativity, humor and love of their craft earned the respect of the hip-hop community. The tragic 2012 passing of Yauch effectively ended the Beastie Boys, an iconic group unthinkable as anything but a trio. — J. Lipshutz  

15. Naughty by Nature 

  When Naughty by Nature dropped its self-titled debut in 1991, members Treach, Vin Rock and DJ Kay Gee blazed a trail on which Biggie and ‘Pac would soon run marathons. Balancing an album of hard, menacing raps (“Uptown Anthem,” “Yoke the Joker”) with an irresistibly hooky single (the mischievous Jackson 5-sampling cheating celebration, “O.P.P.”), the East Coast MCs scored a No. 6 Hot 100 crossover hit without sacrificing street cred. Follow-up album NineteenNaughtyIII found the trio as tough as ever — Treach wields a frickin’ chainsaw on the cover art — while also producing one of hip-hop’s all-time sing-along classics, the funky and summery “Hip Hop Hooray.” Becoming another top 10 hit on the Hot 100, the track demonstrated that respected rappers could soar on the radio and still flaunt serpentine flows and clever wordplay.  — J. Lynch  

14. Fugees 

The Fugees breakout stands out as a momentous chapter in the genre’s history. Members Wyclef Jean, Pras Michel and a then-15-year-old Lauryn Hill contributed to the diversification of Black identity in popular culture through potent rhymes that were equal parts conscious and commercially relevant. Deriving the group name from the word “refugee” — a term often weaponized against immigrants from numerous countries (including Wyclef and Pras’ native Haiti) — the trio reclaimed the word, while creating music that countered the growing gangsta rap of the mid-‘90s. Multi-platinum-certified sophomore effort The Score proved the power of their authenticity: Recorded in Jean’s uncle’s basement, the Grammy-winning album featured the timeless hits “Killing Me Softly” and “Ready or Not.” Despite only releasing two albums, the Fugees became one of the best-selling hip-hop groups of all time. — N.R.

13. Mobb Deep 

Death Row’s triumvirate of 2Pac, Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg held the rap game in a Cobra clutch in 1994. The West Coast movement wreaked terror on the Billboard charts and the streets, to the dismay of their East Coast rivals. But Queens duo Mobb Deep upped their odds with the magnum opus “Shook Ones (Pt II).” The ominous heater evoked a certain edge and aggression that the East Coast lacked at the time. Prodigy’s 24 bars of fury became the gold standard for mid-’90s lyricism as he and Havoc dished out more indelible bars on debut album The Infamous,  including such stellar tracks as “Give Up the Goods” and “Survival of the Fittest.” The duo’s chemistry remained unmatched when they tangoed on 1999’s Murda Muzik , highlighted by the club scorcher “Quiet Storm” (elevated by Brooklyn fireball Lil Kim appearing on the remix). Despite Prodigy’s untimely passing in 2017, his and Havoc’s legacy as prime-time rhymers is well-documented and well-remembered, also thanks to deeper classics like “Win or Lose,” “The Realest” and “Hell on Earth.” — C.L.

 12. Grandmaster Flash & the Furious Five 

When the late ‘70s ushered in rap, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious 5 was among the genre’s early trailblazers founded in the South Bronx by the namesake DJ/producer, with a five-member crew of Melle Mel, Kidd Creole, Keef Cowboy, Scorpio and Rahiem. Grandmaster Flash manipulated the turntable with magical fingers that made vinyl talk, between cutting, scratching and back-spinning, while Melle Mel crafted social commentary about ghetto life. Signing in 1980 with Sugar Hill Records, the group first attracted national attention with “Freedom.” But with 1982’s signature hit “The Message” and 1983’s “White Lines (Don’t Don’t Do It)” the group brought social commentary to the forefront, influencing future conscious practitioners such as Public Enemy and KRS-One. Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five went on to become the first hip-hop group inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2007. — N.A.  

The culture-shifting trio from Atlanta changed the rap game forever with their rapid-fire triplet flow (nicknamed the “Migos flow”), memorable ad-libs and intricately layered trap production. Their 2013 breakout hit “Versace” showcased their infectious energy (which instantly lured Drake to its remix) and also set the stage for Migos’ chart-topping success, via their first Hot 100 No. 1 in 2017 with “Bad and Boujee.” Throughout their trilogy of Culture albums, Migos maximized all three members’ strengths – Quavo’s auto-tuned melodic hooks, Offset’s raw rags-to-riches narratives and Takeoff’s underrated consistency as the group’s best rapper – to create a mesmerizing sound that redefined rap, also thanks in part to go-to producers like DJ Durel, Zaytoven and Murda Beatz. Even after Takeoff’s untimely shooting death in 2022, Migos will always be remembered for shaking up the culture while staying true to their roots. — H.M.

10. The Roots 

The brainchild of Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter and Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, both teenagers at the time of the group’s inception, The Roots achieved unprecedented success for a full band in hip-hop. Throughout all its member iterations, the group remained an authority in the experimental space, capturing the essence of what Black Thought called “organic hip-hop jazz” and delivering some of the genre’s most iconic moments. Their 2000 cut “You Got Me,” alongside Erykah Badu and Eve, took home the Grammy for best rap performance by a duo or group, while their 1995 debut album  Do You Want More?!!!??! r emains a genre classic. The Roots proved influential outside of their own catalog as well, accompanying Jay-Z during his famous MTV unplugged acoustic set and collaborating with R&B greats including D’Angelo, Jill Scott, Musiq Soulchild and others. Lyrically, Black Thought and the late Malik B. matched the group’s awe-inspiring instrumentation, fusing conscious themes with impressive rhyme schemes that captured listeners’ attention across generations and demographics. — N.R.  

9. De La Soul  

With the release of 3 Feet and Higher in 1989, De La Soul (Posdnous, Trugoy the Dove and Maseo) dished up a game-changing debut album whose puckish rhymes and skillful sampling shifted hip-hop away from violence and materialism towards peace, love and having fun. The album also spawned the trio’s biggest hit with the delirious Hot 100 crossover smash “Me, Myself and I.” De La Soul further solidified its principal role in the evolution of jazz rap and alternative hip-hop through a series of albums — 1991’s De La Soul Is Dead , 1993’s Buhloone Mindstate , 1996’s Stakes Is High , 2000’s Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump and 2001’s AOI: Bionix — while also moving beyond the “DAISY Age” trappings of their debut. Innovative sampling was also a De La Soul hallmark, with the group selecting beats from a diverse menu that included Parliament-Funkadelic, Johnny Cash and Bob Marley and The Wailers — though that edge also mired the group in litigation for decades. De La Soul went on to earn a Grammy in 2006 for best pop collaboration for “Feel Good Inc.” with Gorillaz. Sadly, Trugoy died in February 2023 — just weeks before De La Soul’s enduring catalogue finally hit streaming channels. — N.A.

8. Salt-N-Pepa 

Salt-N-Pepa led the charge for female empowerment when it came to commanding respect in a male-dominated industry back in the ‘80s. The pioneering trio — Cheryl “Salt” James, Sandra “Pepa” Denton and Deidra “DJ Spinderella” Roper — shook up the industry with 1985’s “The Showstopper,” a dismissive response to Doug E. and Slick Rick’s “The Show.” The track was featured on their 1986 debut album, Hot, Cool & Vicious , along with perpetual party anthem and top 20 Hot 100 hit “Push It.” Coming into their own creatively while living authentically as Black women took center stage on 1990 third album Blacks’ Magic, which   included the exhilarating “Expression,” the melodic “Independent” and the socially conscious “Let’s Talk About Sex.” Platinum was struck with 1993 fourth album Very Necessary , which spun off the lustful “Shoop,” the celebratory “Whatta Man” (featuring En Vogue) and the daring “None of Your Business,” which won the trio the Grammy for best rap performance by a duo or group. Between their savvy beats, unapologetic lyrics and sexy fashion sense, Salt-N-Pepa singlehandedly changed the sound and look of hip hop. — R.H.

7. Eric B. & Rakim  

  Still the prototypical DJ/rapper duo for many fans, Eric B. & Rakim magnetized the hip-hop world from the opening lines of their very first single, 1986’s “Eric B Is President.” The Long Island pair followed that iconic entrance with one of the greatest debut albums from any genre: 1987’s  Paid in Full , which combined Eric B’s otherworldly ear for supercharged funk and jazz samples (and inspired scratches) with the voice-of-God delivery of Rakim, whose singular steeliness and Shakespearean aptitude for quotable and adaptable rhymes gave him an authority no one from hip-hop’s first decade of shouters could match. Beloved follow-up  Follow the Leader  (1988) was a similarly essential document of hip-hop’s golden age, while final album  Don’t Sweat the Technique  (1992) and its  Juice -soundtracking single “Know the Ledge” proved they could stay vital into the ‘90s – though financial and legal disputes sadly led to the duo’s dissolution the following year. — A.U.

6. Public Enemy 

Long Island, NY’s Public Enemy is the rare musical act that could not only intelligently respond to the times, but also completely embody every emotion and mood that shapes a given sociopolitical period. With groundbreaking albums like Yo! Bum Rush the Show (1987), It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back (1988) and Fear of a Black Planet (1990), PE — whose original members were Chuck D, Flavor Flav, Professor Griff and Terminator X — pioneered some of the most visceral and nuanced political commentary in hip-hop. Their innovative use of samples and fearless embrace of radical Black politics presented a group that was as committed to revolution and liberation as they were to storytelling and world-building.

From “911 Is a Joke,” their scathing takedown of intentional police laziness, to seminal protest anthem “Fight the Power,” Public Enemy didn’t just critique the action: They were directly involved in the fight for a brighter, Blacker future. Public Enemy kicked off this young decade by accepting the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, an indelible honor that doesn’t even begin to capture the breadth of their impact and influence. Then again, no trophy could. — KYLE DENIS

5. Run-D.M.C.

Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell, Joseph “Run” Simmons and Darryl “DMC” McDaniels pioneered hardcore East Coast hip-hop in the ‘80s by fusing rap and rock., helping push the genre into the mainstream during a period since tagged as the golden age of hip-hop. As their spare beats, socially conscious lyrics and aggressive delivery captured the spirit of the streets and shifted away from hip-hop’s disco- and funk-rooted sound, Run-D.M.C.’s genre-bending sonics – demonstrated by their groundbreaking “Walk This Way” collaboration with Aerosmith – broke racial and musical barriers. The group also revolutionized the aesthetics of hip-hop culture by introducing the street B-Boy style: Kangol hats, Adidas tracksuits and laceless sneakers. Run-D.M.C. paved the way for rap to dominate pop cultural spaces it had never entered before by becoming the first rap group to receive a Grammy nomination, score a platinum-certified album (with Raising Hell) , get their music video aired on MTV (with “Rock Box”), sign a major endorsement deal (with Adidas) and be presented the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (in 2016), among countless other accolades. Sadly, Mizell was murdered in 2002. —  H.M.  

4. A Tribe Called Quest 

Beginning its recording career on 1989’s “Native Tongue Decision” remix of “Buddy” by De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest came out the gate with three unimpugnable classics — 1990’s People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm, 1991’s The Low End Theory  and   1993’s Midnight Marauders — which   served as warmly glowing guideposts for a generation of rappers more concerned with self-expression than commerce.  Q-Tip, Phife Dawg, Ali Shaheed Muhammad and on-and-off member Jarobi White could wax philosophical (“Sucka N—a”), spin a silly yarn (“I Left My Wallet in El Segundo”) and get brainy while boasting (“Scenario”) without breaking a sweat. From day one up to their 2016 reunion swan song We Got It From Here… Thank You 4 Your Service  (released shortly after Phife’s death at age 45), Tribe’s ganja-tinged grooves and conversational flows could relax the body while energizing the mind. A group that inspired countless artists but were equaled by none, you simply can’t understand the last three decades of rap or alternative music without an ATCQ immersion.  — J. Lynch

On the way to becoming the rap legends they are now, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, and Eazy-E first began their quests as members of one of the most dominant groups of all-time, N.W.A. Originally comprised of Cube, Dre, Eazy, MC Ren, Arabian Prince, and DJ Yella, the California faction began in 1987 with the release of compilation album  N.W.A and the Posse.  Arabian left the group the following year, before their seminal debut album,  Straight Outta Compton, dropped. Under Jerry Heller’s Ruthless Records banner, the quintet ushered in a new gangsta rap era that ruminated on the harrowing experiences of Black men in Compton. While “Straight Outta Compton” had the rap game in shambles, it was follow-up single “F–k tha Police” that drove shivers down the nation’s spine, ringing incessantly in every hood before the FBI wrote a letter decrying the track’s messaging — further bolstering N.W.A’s claim as rap’s most dangerous group. Though N.W.A disbanded after its second and final studio album  N—az4Life — Cube left in 1989, and Dre departed in 1991 — the group’s legacy remains enshrined in American culture, following its induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016 and its anthologizing in the smash 2015 biopic film  Straight Outta Compton.  — C.L.

2. Wu-Tang Clan

“Wu-Tang again?” “ Ah, yeah, again and again! ” Never has a group before or since burst onto the scene with such unbridled power, self-assurance, bravado and top-level lyricism than the nine-headed monster that is the Wu-Tang Clan — thanks to 1993 debut album  Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) and its bombastic, gritty lead single “Protect Ya Neck.” In a hip-hop world dominated by the G-Funk of Dr. Dre’s West Coast, the Wu reoriented the landscape through a deep love of martial arts movies, RZA’s minimalist soul beats and some of the most innovative MCs that hip-hop has ever seen. To quote GZA at the beginning of “Method Man”: “From the slums of Shaolin, Wu-Tang Clan strikes again/ The RZA, the GZA, Ol’ Dirty Bastard/ Inspectah Deck Raekwon the Chef/ U-God, Ghostface Killah and the METHOD Man,” with Masta Killa and later Cappadonna. The group revolutionized not just how hip-hop sounded, but how its business was handled — like RZA cutting a groundbreaking deal to allow each of the crew’s MCs to sign individual solo pacts with any label they wished. And while several of those solo albums are certified classics, the Wu-Tang Clan was always better when they banded together like Voltron and came for necks. — D.R.

  “Nothing is for sure, nothing is for certain/ And nothing lasts forever, but until they close the curtain/ It’s him and I, Aquemini.” When André 3000 rapped that declaration on 1998’s “Aquemini,” he and Big Boi had already established an indelible sound and persona as OutKast, released a treasure trove of mind-bending Southern rap and helped establish Atlanta as a central hub in hip-hop. The immediate future was unexpected — a crossover explosion at the turn of the century, crystallized by No. 1 singles like “Ms. Jackson” and “Hey Ya!” and an album of the year Grammy win for 2003’s double-LP opus Speakerboxxx/The Love Below  — and indeed, the reign would not last forever, with 2006’s  Idlewild ostensibly marking the end of the pair’s studio output. Yet André Benjamin and Antwan Patton, teenage pals in early-‘90s Atlanta who imagined upending hip-hop together, will forever be linked; their creative luminescence and commercial impact as inseparable as an Aquarius and Gemini forming an undeniable ionic bond. 

The greatness was always in the contrast: Big Boi the tough-spitting realist, André 3000 the outlandish philosopher. And those differences deepened over time, to the point where the two MCs inhabited separate worlds (while still topping charts) on  Speakerboxxx/The Love Below . Yet OutKast’s run from 1994’s gloriously brash  Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik  to 2000’s wildly innovative  Stankonia  remains unparalleled — a duo of polar opposites united in the dream of expanding rap’s sonic boundaries, one classic album at a time. Although Big Boi and André have moved on to other projects and mostly circled out of each other’s creative lives, their legacies will always be intertwined; distinct voices echoing across the annals of hip-hop in perfect harmony. OutKast set the gold standard for rap groups. Maybe nothing lasts forever, but it sure feels like their legacy will. — J. Lipshutz

Get weekly rundowns straight to your inbox

Want to know what everyone in the music business is talking about?

Get in the know on.

Billboard is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Billboard Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

optional screen reader

Charts expand charts menu.

• Billboard Hot 100™
• Billboard 200™
• Hits Of The World™
• TikTok Billboard Top 50
• Song Breaker
• Year-End Charts
• Decade-End Charts

Music Expand music menu

• R&B/Hip-Hop

Videos Expand videos menu

Culture expand culture menu, media expand media menu, business expand business menu.

• Business News
• Record Labels
• View All Pro

Pro Tools Expand pro-tools menu

• Songwriters & Producers
• Artist Index
• Royalty Calculator
• Market Watch
• Industry Events Calendar

Billboard Español Expand billboard-espanol menu

• Cultura y Entretenimiento

Get Up Anthems by Tres Expand get-up-anthems-by-tres menu

Honda music expand honda-music menu.

• Who Puts on the Best Live Show?
• Underground
• Diss Tracks That Disrespected
• New York Rappers
• The Greatest Rappers of the Decade
• Florida Rappers
• British Rappers
• The Most Famous Rapper in the World Right Now
• Best Rappers of the 2000s
• Southern Rappers
• Worst of All Time
• All-Time Greatest
• Lyrical Geniuses
• White Rappers
• Asian Rappers
• Young and New School Rappers
• Rappers Who Are Already Gone
• Rappers with the Most Respect
• Female Rappers
• New School Rappers
• Best Hip Hop Albums Ever
• Funniest Rappers
• Atlanta Rappers
• Hip Hop Voices You Wish You Had
• '90s Rappers
• Emo Rappers
• Chicago Rappers
• SoundCloud Rappers
• The Best New Rappers of 2023
• The Best Rappers of 2023
• '80s Rappers
• Surprisingly Great Singers
• Los Angeles Rappers
• New Orleans Rappers
• Memphis Rappers
• Jamaican Rappers

Rappers Who Put on the Greatest Live Shows, Ranked

Sounding good on stage is one thing, but putting on the greatest live show is another—and there's quite a few rappers who offer the best of both worlds. While there's always room for debate, as well as biased opinions, we can all agree some hip hop artists know how to put on a show. Without much room for argument, Kanye West has long been considered one of the greatest rap performers of his time, with Kendrick Lamar high up on that list as well. However, in a world where new and young rappers pop up every day and really make a name for themselves, there's plenty other rappers with good live shows.

You don't want only a good show, though; you want to hear the rappers with the best live shows out—including artists both old and new. From established artists to the  famed SoundCloud rappers , some rappers just have "it". So, who are the best rappers to see live? Some might say Travis Scott, while others are quick to argue that. Well, now you all have the opportunity to cast your vote for the best live performing rappers—right here, right now. 

Check out the list of rappers below and vote up the ones you think deserve the top spots for best concerts, whether they know how to hype up a crowd, sound great on stage, or even better, do both. See someone missing? Feel free to add them to the list. 

Travis Scott

Renowned for his energy-fueled live shows, this Houston-born rapper captivates his audiences with an emotionally intense connection to his music and fans. With a unique sound that blends old-school hip-hop with modern production techniques, he has easily become one of the most sought-after performers in the rap world. His live performances are a spectacle to behold, embracing pyrotechnics, elaborate stage design, and the infamous "Astroworld" theme park-inspired set.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Travis Scott Songs
• And Deeper... The Best Songs Ft. Travis Scott
• # 25 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time

Kendrick Lamar

A true genius when it comes to storytelling, this Compton-native is celebrated for his thought-provoking lyrics and powerful delivery on stage. For years, he's been hailed as one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop history, with numerous accolades including multiple Grammy Awards. On stage, he gives an electrifying performance filled with passion and raw emotion, ensuring that every line and beat hits home with his audience.

This Chicago-born artist is equal parts brilliant and controversial, both in the studio and on stage. His innovative production techniques, profound lyricism, and inimitable style have solidified him as one of the most groundbreaking and influential rappers of his generation. Known for his elaborate live shows with grandiose set design and unparalleled theatrics, he leaves concertgoers in awe and often hungry for more.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Songs Feat. Kanye West
• And Deeper... Musicians You May Not Know Are Republican
• # 1031 of 1,150 on The Greatest Musical Artists of All Time

Lil Uzi Vert

This Philly native exploded onto the scene with a new wave of punk-infused trap music that captivated fans across the globe. With an eccentric fashion sense and larger-than-life persona, he's become an icon in both hip-hop and pop culture. During his live performances, expect intense mosh pits, eclectic dance moves, and infectious energy that radiates throughout the crowd.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Songs Ft. Lil Uzi Vert
• And Deeper... 320 Famous Leo Celebrities
• # 1 of 42 on The Best Young Rappers And New School Rappers

Playboi Carti

With a distinctive flow and infectious ad-libs, this Atlanta artist quickly garnered a cult following for his unique brand of melodic trap music. His catchy hooks and minimalist beats make him a favorite among hip-hop enthusiasts, resulting in sold-out shows across the globe. In concert, he ignites the crowd with high-energy performances and undeniable charisma, making it impossible not to join in the festivities.

• # 9 of 42 on The Best Young Rappers And New School Rappers
• # 115 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time
• # 30 of 180 on The Best New School Rappers

XXXTentacion

Before his tragic passing, this Florida rapper was making waves in the hip-hop community for his deeply personal lyrics and versatile style. Known for his ability to switch effortlessly between hard-hitting bangers and introspective ballads, he won over legions of fans with his authenticity. Despite a tumultuous life, his live performances were nothing short of mesmerizing, reflecting both vulnerability and aggressiveness that leaves audience members transfixed.

• Dig Deeper... The Best XXXTentacion Songs, Ranked
• And Deeper... The Complete List of Rappers Who've Been in Prison
• # 337 of 559 on People We Wish Were Still Alive

Tyler, the Creator

He's unquestionably one of the most unique figures in contemporary rap, bringing a creative and unconventional approach to both his music and live shows. From his early days leading the Odd Future collective to his Grammy-winning solo work, fans have come to expect the unexpected during his concerts. Embracing theatrical performances, intricate set designs, and spontaneous interactions with the audience, it's easy to see why he's touted as a must-see live act.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Tyler the Creator Songs, Ranked
• And Deeper... All 7 Of Tyler, The Creator Albums, Ranked
• # 23 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time

Often hailed as one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop history, this Detroit rapper has a storied career filled with groundbreaking records and unforgettable live performances. Known for his rapid-fire flow and shocking lyrics, he has pushed the envelope both on and offstage. His intense energy and intricate wordplay are only amplified in a live setting, making for an unforgettable experience that leaves audiences stunned.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Eminem Songs of All Time
• And Deeper... 100+ Left-Handed Celebrities
• # 164 of 251 on The 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked

As one of the pioneers of the "cloud rap" subgenre, this Harlem rapper is known for his ethereal production, smooth flow, and artful visuals. Easily traversing the worlds of fashion and music, he's become an icon in today's hip-hop scene. His live performances feature mesmerizing visuals, dynamic stage presence, and infectious energy that keeps fans dancing nonstop.

• Dig Deeper... The Best ASAP Rocky Albums of All Time
• # 20 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time
• # 6 of 180 on The Best New School Rappers

A wordsmith in his own right, this North Carolina rapper has built a name for himself as one of the most introspective and thought-provoking lyricists in the game. His delivery is smooth and captivating, showcasing the depth of his storytelling abilities while often touching on sociopolitical issues. His live shows are captivating as he bares his soul on stage, supported by a talented backing band that elevates each performance to exceptional heights.

Before his untimely death, this Chicago-born artist was gaining recognition for his ability to fuse emo and hip-hop in a way that resonated with fans worldwide. His intuitive knack for crafting melodies and penning vulnerable lyrics made him a standout in the rap community. In concert, he could effortlessly switch from intense rapping to soulful singing, delivering emotional performances that won't soon be forgotten.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Juice WRLD Songs Ever, Ranked
• And Deeper... The Best Songs on Juice WRLD's Album 'Death Race for Love'
• # 921 of 1,150 on The Greatest Musical Artists of All Time

Affectionately known as "Weezy," this New Orleans-bred rapper has an illustrious career spanning decades, putting out hit after hit. His intricate wordplay, unique voice, and versatility have earned him the title of one of the greatest rappers of all time. His live shows are no less impressive, with masterful performances that include everything from acoustic guitar solos to high-energy crowd interactions.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Songs on Lil Wayne's Album Dedication 6
• # 11 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time

A living legend in the world of hip-hop, this Long Beach artist is celebrated for his unmistakable flow, charismatic persona, and memorable hooks. With a career spanning over 30 years and dozens of hits, he's proven time and time again his ability to captivate audiences. His laid-back stage presence combined with an unwavering love for his craft makes his live performances a can't-miss event for any hip-hop fan.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Snoop Dogg Songs of All Time
• And Deeper... Famous People Who Are Libra
• # 44 of 307 on The Greatest Musical Artists of the '90s

As an original member of the groundbreaking hip-hop group N.W.A. and then a successful solo career, this rapper-turned-actor has become a legend in the world of entertainment. His thought-provoking lyrics and undeniable charisma have made him a pioneer in taking the West Coast hip-hop scene to new heights. During his live shows, fans can always expect classic hits delivered with conviction and energy, solidifying his position as one of rap's greatest performers.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Ice Cube Songs
• And Deeper... The 365+ Most Famous Geminis
• # 152 of 182 on The All-Time Greatest Action Stars

Ski Mask The Slump God

Known for his rapid-fire flow, playful lyrics, and animated persona, this Florida native has quickly made a name for himself in the hip-hop community. His dynamic and energetic performances have helped him build a loyal fan base that eagerly anticipates each new release. With unconventional ad-libs, engaging stage presence, and impressive breath control, he is a force to be reckoned with when performing live.

• # 4 of 42 on The Best Young Rappers And New School Rappers
• # 81 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time
• # 14 of 180 on The Best New School Rappers

As one of the biggest names in hip-hop, this Canadian artist boasts a seemingly endless arsenal of chart-topping hits and infectious anthems. Known for his catchy hooks and melodic rapping style, he has firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. In concert, he demonstrates his ability to command a stage and engage audiences with high-energy performances, surprise appearances, and heartfelt moments.

• Dig Deeper... The Top 50+ Drake Songs, Ranked
• And Deeper... The Best Drake Albums of All-Time
• # 18 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time

Post Malone

This genre-bending rapper and singer took the music world by storm with his unique fusion of hip-hop, rock, and pop. With a penchant for memorable hooks and relatable lyrics, he has managed to quickly rise to the top of the charts. His live performances are a testament to his widespread appeal, showcasing his powerful vocals and charismatic energy that keep fans singing along for hours on end.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Post Malone Songs
• And Deeper... The Best Songs Feat. Post Malone
• # 5 of 42 on The Best Young Rappers And New School Rappers

Undeniably one of the most influential figures in rap history, this Compton native has not only revolutionized the sound of West Coast hip-hop but also launched the careers of numerous superstar artists. As a producer, rapper, and entrepreneur, he's earned the admiration of peers and fans alike. While live performances are rare, when he does grace the stage, it's a guaranteed spectacle of iconic hits and masterful showmanship.

This Queens-born rapper skyrocketed to fame in the early 2000s with his gritty storytelling and no-nonsense attitude. He's cemented his status as one of rap's most successful businessmen and artists, transcending music to excel in various industries. In a live setting, he brings an undeniable charisma and commanding stage presence that makes each performance feel like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Dig Deeper... The Best 50 Cent Songs
• # 979 of 1,150 on The Greatest Musical Artists of All Time

Although primarily categorized as an R&B singer, this Canadian artist has consistently infused rap elements into his music to create a unique and intoxicating sound. His dark, moody production combined with his haunting falsetto has captivated fans worldwide. When taking the stage, he delivers a mesmerizing performance complete with spectacular visuals and live band accompaniment, leaving audiences in awe.

Wiz Khalifa

With his laid-back demeanor and emphasis on marijuana culture, this Pittsburgh rapper has become a beloved figure in the world of hip-hop. His melodic flow and catchy hooks have earned him countless hit singles and a devoted fan base. Bringing his signature style to the stage, his live performances are filled with positive vibes, smoke-filled skylines, and crowd-pleasing anthems.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Songs Ft. Wiz Khalifa
• # 34 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time

Chance The Rapper

Hailing from Chicago, this independent artist has made a name for himself with catchy hooks, gospel influences, and an endearing persona. With thought-provoking lyrics and the ability to merge various genres, his unorthodox sound stands out in the rap landscape. Known for his high-spirited performances and impeccable live band, he leaves fans uplifted and inspired long after the show has ended.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Chance the Rapper Songs, Ranked
• And Deeper... The Best Songs Ft. Chance the Rapper

As a key member of the legendary Wu-Tang Clan, this New York rapper has left an indelible mark on hip-hop history with his gritty lyricism and unique flow. His stage presence is unparalleled, often diving into crowds and engaging with fans mid-performance. With a charismatic personality and unwavering dedication to the craft, he remains a highly respected figure in the rap game.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Songs Feat. Method Man
• And Deeper... The Best Method Man Songs
• # 22 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time

Considered one of the founding fathers of gangsta rap, this Compton legend left an indelible mark on the hip-hop scene before his untimely death. As a member of N.W.A., his unapologetic lyrics and charismatic persona captured the zeitgeist and shaped the future of the genre. While we can no longer witness his live performances, his influence lives on through countless artists who continue to pay homage to his groundbreaking work.

• # 455 of 559 on People We Wish Were Still Alive
• # 15 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time
• # 9 of 113 on The Best Rappers of the '90s

Trippie Redd

Blending rap, rock, and trap, this Ohio native has carved out a unique niche for himself within the hip-hop community. With a powerful voice that can switch from melodic crooning to aggressive rapping, he's garnered a dedicated fan base that appreciates his versatility. His live shows are filled with raw emotion, energetic stage presence, and a palpable connection with his audience.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Songs on Trippie Redd's Album Life's a Trip
• And Deeper... The Best Trippie Redd Albums, Ranked
• # 12 of 42 on The Best Young Rappers And New School Rappers

Consisting of three members, this groundbreaking Atlanta rap group has taken the world by storm with their infectious ad-libs, intricate flows, and unmatched chemistry. Pioneers of the "trap" subgenre, they've consistently produced hit after hit, securing their place in hip-hop history. When performing live, their energy is contagious, delivering a high-octane show that keeps fans on their feet and begging for more.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Songs Ft. Migos
• And Deeper... The Best Songs on Migos's Album Culture II
• # 51 of 73 on The Best Trios Of All Time

With a penchant for intricate wordplay and remarkable storytelling, this Maryland-born rapper has quickly risen to the top of the hip-hop game. His diverse discography showcases an impressive range of styles and themes, earning him the respect of both fans and fellow artists. In a live setting, he pours his heart into each verse, engaging audiences with his authentic delivery and magnetic energy.

As a member of the world-renowned Korean group BTS, this rapper stands out with his introspective lyricism and technical precision. His deep understanding of rap history and willingness to push the boundaries of the genre make him a formidable force in the music industry. On stage, he delivers passionate performances, captivating fans with his powerful presence and undeniable talent.

• # 5 of 168 on The Best KPop Singers of All Time
• # 7 of 147 on The 125+ Best K-pop Dancers Of All Time, Ranked
• # 2 of 122 on The Best K-Pop Solo Artists

Denzel Curry

Known for his aggressive delivery and socially conscious lyrics, this Florida native has established himself as one of the most exciting voices in modern rap. With a gritty sound and unapologetic attitude, he's garnered a dedicated fan base that eagerly anticipates each new release. During live shows, his explosive energy and raw emotion command the attention of everyone in the room.

• # 13 of 42 on The Best Young Rappers And New School Rappers
• # 44 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time
• # 8 of 180 on The Best New School Rappers

With a smooth flow and tongue-in-cheek lyricism, this Atlanta rapper has become a mainstay in the hip-hop scene since his debut in the early 2000s. His larger-than-life persona, coupled with undeniable skill, has earned him both commercial success and critical acclaim. In concert, he brings the same energy and wit that fans love, making for an unforgettable live experience.

• Dig Deeper... The Best Songs Feat. Ludacris
• # 53 of 234 on The Greatest Rappers Of All Time
• # 35 of 121 on The Most Respected Rappers, Ranked
• Hip-Hop / Rap
• Bands/Musicians

Lists that rank the best rappers and hip hop artists from every time and place.

200 Greatest Rap/Hip-Hop Songs Of All Time

• Music Lists
• Rap/Hip-Hop Songs

24 Best Rappers Right Now: Meet Modern Hip-Hop's Best

It's about time we talk about the best rappers right now. As we journey into the heart of the new golden age of hip-hop, there are plenty of worthy characters to discuss. From gritty storytelling to mesmerizing wordplay, here are the 24 artists currently ruling the scene. Keep in mind - with the amount of talent out there, we're bound to miss some notable contenders one way or another.

RELATED: 25 Soundcloud Rappers Who Have Changed the Industry

24. Conway the Machine

Hometown: Buffalo, New York

Conway the Machine is bringing back the golden era of gritty, raw hip-hop with his lyrical prowess and hard-hitting beats.

23. baby keem

Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada

Baby Keem is a rising star, captivating audiences with his dynamic beats and introspective lyrics.

22. Central Cee

Hometown: London, England

A West London native, Central Cee is making waves in the UK drill scene with his unique flow and hard-hitting lyrics.

21. Icewear Vezzo

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

Hailing from Detroit, Icewear Vezzo 's gripping narratives and sharp delivery highlight the city's resilience and spirit.

20. Chief Keef

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

Chicago's own Chief Keef has surely left his mark on hip-hop, influencing a new generation of artists with his raw style and authentic storytelling.

19. THOTTWAT

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois (ICYTWAT) and Harlem, New York (Thoto)

This dynamic duo composed of ICYTWAT and Thoto are poised to take over this year. From the production to their vocal approach and corresponding visuals, their work is absolutely incredible.

18. Ken Carson

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia

Ken Carson , an Atlanta native, has stormed the rap scene with his electric flow and innovative sound. He has a huge buzz around his signing to Playboi Carti, who he will soon be on tour with.

17. Destroy Lonely

Just like Ken, Destroy has benefitted from the buzz of Playboi Carti, and will also be joining him on tour. Known for his versatility, Destroy Lonely blends various elements to create a unique sound that's propelling him among the best rappers right now.

16. Luh Tyler

Hometown: Tallahassee, Florida

Luh Tyler , representing Florida, has captivated audiences with his creative lyricism and catchy melodies. He's been having one hell of a year so far.

15. Young Thug

Young Thug continues to redefine hip-hop with his experimental style and avant-garde fashion. Even while he's been locked up, he managed to drop one of the projects of the year to date.

14. Lil Durk

Hailing from Chicago, Lil Durk 's gritty storytelling and poignant rhymes continue to resonate with fans worldwide. Ever since he broke into the limelight, he's been on a straight path upward.

Lucki , a Chicago native, has mastered the art of introspective rap, making him a standout in the industry. He just dropped off a brand new project, s*x, m*ney, and dr*gs .

12. Young Nudy

Atlanta-based Young Nudy captivates with his evocative storytelling, demonstrating why he's one of the best rappers right now. He never misses, and his latest album has zero skips.

Atlanta's Future has been consistently among the best rappers right now, creating hit after hit with his signature autotune-laced voice. After recently selling his catalog , he's sure to be making some major moves soon.

10. Babyface Ray

Babyface Ray brings to life the Detroit rap scene with his vivid storytelling and relaxed flow. He's witty, talented, and original, to say the least.

Veeze , another Detroit native, is a vibrant presence in the hip-hop scene with his unique beats and energetic delivery. His latest album, Ganger , proved to be a classic.

8. Lil Yachty

With his distinct voice and playful style, Lil Yachty has become a recognizable figure among the best rappers right now. Watch out for him and his collective of creatives, Concrete Boys.

7. Kendrick Lamar

Hometown: Compton, California

Kendrick Lamar , a wordsmith hailing from Compton, has been instrumental in bringing lyricism back to mainstream hip-hop. His discography is a testament to his position as the finest among the best rappers right now.

6. 21 Savage

With his inimitable style and fearless lyrics, 21 Savage has solidified his place in the pantheon of modern hip-hop greats. He's currently on tour with Drake, leveling up show by show.

5. Lil Uzi Vert

Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Lil Uzi Vert 's eccentric style and infectious energy have made him one of the most dynamic figures among the best rappers right now. He's not just a great recording artist, he's an absolutely incredible performer as well.

Hometown: Irvine, California

Yeat 's unique flow and signature ad-libs have cemented him as one of the best rappers right now. It's like he's created a whole subculture surrounding himself and his music. Every time he drops, it seems like the whole industry stops for a moment to listen.

3. Playboi Carti

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgie

Playboi Carti 's innovative style and ever-evolving sound have made him a standout among the best rappers right now. He's easily one of the most popular rappers amongst the youth.

2. Ice Spice

Hometown: New York, New York

Ice Spice has managed to completely innovate in an industry that sees a lot of the opposite. While people aren't quick to give her flowers, she surely deserves them. She still hasn't missed with a single release to date.

Hometown: Toronto, Ontario, Canada

At the number one spot on our list of the best rappers right now, we rightfully have Drake . A global sensation, Toronto’s Drake has consistently been setting records and redefining the sound of hip-hop. His tour with 21 Savage alone justifies why we have him at the top spot.

More music stories:

The 30 Best Songs of the 2000s, Ranked

23 Best Songs About Rain to Vibe Out To

Stunt 101: 50 Cent Albums Ranked from Worst to Best

• Entertainment
• Celebrities
• Ticket Sales
• Promoted: What to Watch on Prime Video

Recommended

Live updates, childish gambino announces ‘the new world tour,’ 2 ny shows. get tickets.

• View Author Archive
• Get author RSS feed

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

When it rains, it pours.

After a five-year hiatus from releasing music and touring — excluding the leaked, unfinished studio album “3.15.20” in March 2020 —  Childish Gambino aka Donald Glover has dropped a new album, promised another one later this summer and announced his ‘New World Tour.’

The ‘New World Tour’ will send the rapper/singer/actor/writer/director/comedian to arenas all over North America, Europe and Australasia from August 2024 through February 2025 along with special guests WILLOW and Amaarae on select dates.

Early on in the 35-concert U.S. and Canada run, the “Atlanta” star is slated to drop into Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on Monday, Aug. 26 and Tuesday, Aug. 27 .

As for the new album, titled “Atavista,” it is officially streaming as of Monday, May 13.

“This album is the finished version of ‘3.15.20’, the album I put out four years ago,” Glover shared on Instagram . “The all new Childish Gambino album comes out in the summer.”

If you want tickets to see Glover deliver the hits as well as debut tracks from his new record live later this year, tickets for all North American concerts can be yours as soon as today.

Based on our findings, fans can now purchase tickets on sites like Vivid Seats ; the official on-sale is Friday, May 17.

Vivid Seats is a secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand.

They have a 100% buyer guarantee that states your transaction will be safe and secure and will be delivered before the event.

Childish Gambino tour schedule 2024

A complete calendar including all U.S. and Canada tour dates, venues and links to buy tickets can be found below.

Childish Gambino set list

As hinted at above, Glover hasn’t toured since 2019, when he was on the road in support of his 2016 album “This Is America.”

While the set list will likely change quite a bit for ‘The New World Tour,’ here’s what he played at the final show of his last tour (excluding festival dates), courtesy of Set List FM .

01.) “Atavista” 02.) “Algorhythm” 03.) “Summertime Magic” 04.) “I. The Worst Guys” 05.) “II. Worldstar” 06.) “Boogieman” 07.) “Have Some Love” 08.) “Riot” 09.) “Terrified” 10.) “Feels Like Summer” 11.) “Human Sacrifice”

12.) “This Is America”

13.) “Sober” 14.) “V. 3005” 15.) “IV. Sweatpants” 16.) “Redbone”

Childish Gambino new album

On Monday, May 13, Gambino dropped his fourth official studio album “Atavista.”

The 11-track record, featuring guest spots from Ariana Grande, Kadhja Bonet, 21 Savage, Ink, Young Nudy and Summer Walker, is the finished version of “3.15.20.”

As you may have caught above, he was performing tracks like “Atavista” and “Algorhythm,” live as far back as in late 2019 at the tail end of the ‘This Is America Tour.’

For those who have yet to hear the record, “Atavista” is more a return to Glover’s warm, R&B “Redbone” sound than his urgent, pulsing “This Is America” flow.

Highlights include the gleeful “Little Foot Big Foot,” gorgeous yet heavy “The Violence” and exuberant, joyful “Final Church.”

What we came back to the most though was the aforementioned “Algorhythm,” which lives in the space between Hip-Hop, dance and ’80s pop.

If you want to hear for yourself, you can listen to “Atavista” in its entirety here .

Childish Gambino special guests

On select dates, Glover will either bring WILLOW or Amaarae with him.

To acquaint yourself with their sounds, you can find their most-streamed tracks on Spotify here:

WILLOW: “Wait a Minute!”

Amaarae : “SAD GIRLZ LUV MONEY”

Upcoming Donald Glover projects

On top of his music career, Donald Glover is one of the most in-demand actors, writers and directors around.

Rather than inundate you with everything on his plate, here are four upcoming movies he’ll reportedly appear in, according to IMDb:

“Lando” will tell the story of iconic “Star Wars” character Lando Calrissian. Plot details are currently under wraps; Glover is writing the screenplay with his brother, Stephen.

“Community: The Movie” puts the cherry on top of the beloved NBC sitcom’s “six seasons and a movie” mantra. Although no release date is set, Glover will reprise his role as Troy Barnes alongside series co-stars Alison Brie, Gillian Jacobs, Joel McHale, Danny Pudi, Ken Jeong and Jim Rash. Series creator Dan Harmon is handling screenplay duties with “30 Rock” scribe Andrew Guest.

“American Dream: The 21 Savage Story” follows 21 Savage’s journey from UK birth to US upbringing where he conquers adversity like poverty and crime to attain success in rap music. Victoria Pedretti, Natasha Lyonne and 21 Savage co-star.

“Mufasa: The Lion King” is the sequel to 2019’s remake of the 1994 original. Glover returns as Simba; Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner and Keith David round out the impressive voice cast.

Hip-Hop stars on tour in 2024

This year is packed with shows you won’t want to miss.

We wish we could list them all but here are just five of our favorites you won’t want to miss live.

•  Missy Elliott with Busta Rhymes

• 21 Savage

•  A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie

• Future x Metro Boomin

•  Ken Carson

Who else is on the road? Take a look at our list of the 50 biggest concert tours in 2024 to find out.

Why you should trust ‘Post Wanted’ by the New York Post

This article was written by Matt Levy , New York Post live events reporter. Levy stays up-to-date on all the latest tour announcements from your favorite musical artists and comedians, as well as Broadway openings, sporting events and more live shows – and finds great ticket prices online. Since he started his tenure at the Post in 2022, Levy has reviewed Bruce Springsteen and interviewed Melissa Villaseñor of SNL fame, to name a few. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

Share this article:

Nine things to know: All about Valhalla Golf Club

Need to Know

No. 11, Holler: It’s a middle- to long-iron shot into a shallow green that features a slight false front, with a large bunker in front and a smaller one behind. The green angles right to left, but shots going too far left will bound down the steep hillside. (Source: PGA of America)

Change Text Size

Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky, was built specifically to host major championships, and it has stood the test of time. Now recently polished and upgraded, the course is ready to host this year’s PGA Championship.

1. WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Its name alone invokes epic tales, and it has been the site of some. Valhalla refers to the mythological Norse hall of slain warriors who rest under the watchful eye of the warrior god Odin. A bit fanciful, perhaps. But the original ownership hired Jack Nicklaus in the 1980s to design a major-championship venue, and the venue has produced memorable theatrics during three PGA Championships (1996 – Mark Brooks; 2000 - Tiger Woods; 2014 – Rory McIlroy), two Senior PGA Championships (2004 – Hale Irwin; 2011 – Tom Watson) and the 2008 Ryder Cup (USA). Perhaps another humbled god of yore can rise again this time.

The first PGA saw Kentucky’s own Kenny Perry fall in a sudden-death playoff to Mark Brooks. Perry made a mess of the first extra hole after making the questionable decision to be interviewed in the CBS broadcast booth instead of keeping warm on the range. Perry also lost a sudden-death playoff at the 2009 Masters after making bogey on the final two holes of regulation. He never did get his major championship, but he got redemption in his home state when, at the age of 48, he was a member of the U.S. Team that won the 2008 Ryder Cup at Valhalla. That team, captained by Paul Azinger, set a template that the U.S. side has been trying to replicate since.

Valhalla’s next PGA, held just four years after Brooks’ victory, was Woods’ third consecutive major win. He became the first man since Ben Hogan in 1953 to win three majors in the same year and went on to win the following year’s Masters to complete the Tiger Slam. Woods had to hole a downhill, sliding 7-footer for birdie to force a playoff with plucky underdog Bob May, then dispatched of him in a three-hole playoff. The scene of Woods chasing down his birdie putt and pointing at the hole on the first extra hole is perhaps the most famous moment at Valhalla.

Photo Finish: This epic finishing hole bends gracefully to the right, with a large bunker to the left of the landing zone and a beautiful water feature on the right. Most players can get home in two, but will have to contend with a big bunker in front and a smaller pot bunker left. The vast, horseshoe-shaped green has distinct putting areas left, center, and right, so simply getting on the surface is no guarantee of a good score. (Source: PGA of America)

Straight Up: The tee shot must find the uphill, left-angling fairway, which means avoiding the two large bunkers, one on each side of the landing area. Then the approach must find the green, which is completely surrounded by trouble—two bunkers to the left and tightly mown turf everywhere else. (Source: PGA of America)

Homestretch: Brush Run Creek lines the right side of this slight dogleg-right, as well. But the real difficulty is the formidable green complex, which features two bunkers in front and a severe drop-off to a closely manicured chipping area to the right. The natural amphitheater is a prime spot for spectator viewing. (Source: PGA of America)

Julep: Unfortunately, that’s not mint julep in Brush Run Creek, which runs down the entire right side of the hole. The landing area is framed by deep bluegrass rough to the left and a large bunker to the right. The creek and a small bunker edge the right side of the large green, with a bigger bunker on the left. (Source: PGA of America)

On The Rocks: The longest par 3 on the course, and also one of the best views of the surrounding countryside. The serene setting gets more serious around the two-tiered green, which is sandwiched between two bunkers in front and two behind. Playing from either of the two rear bunkers can be especially painful as the green slopes from back to front. (Source: PGA of America)

The Limestone Hole: Don’t let the distance deceive you: Yes, it’s the shortest two-shot hole on the course, but those two shots have to be good. A cluster of six bunkers sits just to the left of the fairway landing zone, while the green is a true island, surrounded by water and built up nearly 20 feet on large limestone boulders. (Source: PGA of America)

Holler: It’s a middle- to long-iron shot into a shallow green that features a slight false front, with a large bunker in front and a smaller one behind. The green angles right to left, but shots going too far left will bound down the steep hillside. (Source: PGA of America)

Sting Like A Bee: This hole has an island fairway which is especially difficult because it doglegs to the right and then leaves an approach shot of 170-190 yards to an elevated green. One of the deepest bunkers on the course sits to the right of the angled putting surface, while the bluegrass rough to the left is gnarly and painful. (Source: PGA of America)

Big Red: Named after Secretariat, the big, long-distance thoroughbred, this hole is a double-dogleg with a fairway bunker on the right side of the driving zone and deep rough and trees to the left. The undulating, two-tiered green is nearly perpendicular to the fairway and protected by a large, deep bunker in front. (Source: PGA of America)

Twin Spires: The tee shot at this uphill par 4 is challenged by three fairway bunkers along the right side and two more left. The uphill approach makes judging the yardage difficult, exaggerated by the presence of one of the largest and deepest bunkers on the course just right of the green.The green itself is one of the most undulating on the entire golf course. (Source: PGA of America)

Float Like A Butterfly: It’s only a short- to middle-iron in, but the green complex is as dangerous as a Muhammad Ali combination. The front is protected by a deep bunker and a severe, closely manicured collection area. There is another bunker left, and another low-mow collection area beyond the green. The large, angled green affords numerous testing hole locations. (Source: PGA of America)

Genuine Risk: The split fairway sets up a classic risk vs. reward dilemma. Driving to the left shortens the hole by more than 50 yards, but the landing area is only 26 yards wide, surrounded by bluegrass rough, and guarded by water right; the approach from this island fairway is 210-230 yards, all over water. Driving to the right is longer but safer. With water along the front and left side of the green, it’s a brave player who attacks from any angle. (Source: PGA of America)

Long Shot: The name “Long Shot” refers not to distance but one’s chance of making a par on this difficult hole. It demands an accurate tee shot, and for some players will be something less than a driver as the aim is to get as close to Floyd’s Fork as one dares. Even after a good drive, players will still be looking at over 200 yards to a challenging green complex: A deep bunker guards the left side, a closely mown collection area lurks on the right. (Source: PGA of America)

The Sun Shines Bright: The fairway on this dogleg-right is bracketed by a large fairway bunker on the right side and three bunkers on the left. The large, triangular green is also guarded on both sides, by a large bunker right and a closely mown collection area left. The back-right hole location is one of the most challenging on the course. (Source: PGA of America)

Mine That Bird: The aggressive line on this short-ish par 4 is down the left side, carrying the large bunker at the inside of the dogleg-left’s elbow. When the tee is moved forward most players can drive the green, but this brings Floyd’s Fork into play to the left side of the green and the putting surface features significant movement and contours. Golfers who choose to lay back and approach with a wedge will need precise distance control to get near the hole wherever it’s positioned. (Source: PGA of America)

Honest Abe: Named after Kentucky’s only president (Lincoln was born in Larue County, about 70 miles south of Valhalla; his family moved to Illinois when he was 7), this challenging par 3 demands an “honest” attempt. Floyd’s Fork sweeps around to the right of the green, which also is guarded by a large bunker to the right and smaller bunkers to the left and behind. But the real danger is misreading the wind, which can push a shot to the right side, which slopes down toward the hazards. (Source: PGA of America)

The Post: The challenge on this dogleg-left is not only off the tee, but also on the approach. The large front-right bunker is both visually intimidating and a real threat when the hole is cut front-left or back-right. The left bunker will catch errant shots aimed at the back of the green. (Source: PGA of America)

Winning Colors: Another slight dogleg left, this long par 4 is lined with beautiful Kentucky hardwoods. Tee shots need to stay clear of a finger of Floyd’s Fork, a waterway that runs along the left side of the fairway and green, and continues to meander through the front nine. Also protecting the angled green are three bunkers, two front-left and one back-right. (Source: PGA of America)

McIlroy will mark something of a milestone when he returns to Valhalla this week. This was the site of his fourth – and most recent major – victory. That tournament was held in August, so we are a few months short of an exact decade, but there will no doubt be reflections on the fact that McIlroy won four majors from 2011-14 but has not won one since. He finished off his 2014 PGA Championship in the dark after storms delayed the final round. It was his second major win of the year, coming on the heels of his victory a month earlier in The Open.

2. BIG BALLPARK

This is a golf club, not a country club, and everything about it is big in scale. It’s a golf facility built for the modern game and built for hosting big events. The 485-acre property sits 20 miles east of downtown Louisville, easily accessible by highway and with plenty of local parking to accommodate the large crowds.

With 60 feet of elevation change across the entire site, Valhalla is easily walkable. There’s also plenty of room alongside the holes to provide spectators with excellent viewing and to tuck the necessary cart paths behind mounds or in the trees. The two tees of the double-sided practice area sit 350 yards apart so there’s no need to worry about netting on the practice area, either. The takeaway? There’s no shortage of space at Valhalla.

3. HAZARD-OUS MATERIAL

The corridors at Valhalla are framed by the spartan use of bunkers and the creeks that wind through the property. There are 62 bunkers on the course, and they’re almost evenly deployed between the fairways and the greens.

The fairway bunkers tend to line the sides of the landing zones, which are approximately 25 yards wide. They’re not necessarily there to define ideal lines of play or to present players with risky, but rewarding, carries. They simply constrict the landing areas and penalize those who stray from the fairway.

The greenside bunkers also help define aerial lines of play; these are perched up putting surfaces that are not designed for ground-game approaches. In this sense, the course is distinctly modern in its encouragement of aerial power.

Additional strategy is provided by two meandering streams: Floyd’s Fork on the front nine and Brush Run Creek on the back nine. Together, they influence play on seven holes should players come up short with their approaches or wander too far afield with their tee shots.

4. LONG GAME

Valhalla has been lengthened by 151 yards for this year’s PGA Championship, a 2% increase over its yardage in 2014. It will now top out at 7,609 yards and have a par of 71. Over that same decade, the average drive on the PGA TOUR has increased by 2.8%. That means the effective playing distance is marginally less than it was a decade ago, especially when considering the added length that iron shots travel. Valhalla’s added length is part of ongoing renovation by the Nicklaus design team. Recent changes were concentrated on four holes: the par-4 first and 12th holes, the par-3 14th and par-5 closing hole.

The first hole will now play approximately 50 yards longer, while 20 yards have been added to No. 12. The 14th hole can now be played as a 250-yard par-3.

5. THREE KEY HOLES

These are three holes to keep an eye on this week:

No. 4: The 372-yard par 4 normally plays as a lay-up off the tee to a tightly-bunkered fairway and then a wedge to a well-guarded green. But the PGA’s Chief Championship Officer, Kerry Haigh, has indicated that the tees will “probably” be moved up at some point, in which case many players will tempt what amounts to a 305-yard carry to the green. Making the hole drivable brings Floyd’s Fork into play left of the putting surface.

No. 6: This 495-yard par 4 will likely be the toughest hole all week. Players have to back off on a driver because the fairway ends at 295 yards, bisected by Floyd’s Fork. It’s a 340-yard carry past trees and creek to reach the other side. Modesty off the tee leaves most players with 200 yards remaining to a perched green that falls off steeply on the left. Miss the fairway off the tee and par becomes very elusive.

No. 13: This 351-yard par 4 is Valhalla’s most photographed hole, and for good reason. It plays from an elevated tee to a densely-bunkered fairway. The approach is hit to a fortress of an island green that has absolutely no support around it. You either hit the 5,662-square-foot green or you are in the water. The risk-reward ratio is extremely high, so everyone rational lays up off the tee and then tries to hit the green with a wedge. The hole has recently been excavated anew to expose its supportive limestone and adjoining waterfall. It's quite the spectacle.

6. THAT 18TH

Fitting for a course in Kentucky, the 18th hole is nicknamed “Photo Finish,” and it has provided plenty of those. Two of the three PGAs held at Valhalla have been decided in a playoff, while the other was a one-shot victory.

For this year’s PGA, the par 5 has been lengthened by 28 yards to 570. It's still within reach of most of the field, but players will need to hit the fairway to get home in two.

The oversized green is 6,534 square feet. It wraps around a mammoth “lion’s mouth” bunker that is in front of the green and divides it into three sections. The green serves as center stage, surrounded by hills that create a huge amphitheater for spectators.

Perry bogeyed the hole in 1996, then watched Brooks make a 4-footer for birdie to force a playoff. Brooks birdied it again to win on the first extra hole.

Four years later, Woods had to hole a 7-foot birdie on No. 18 to force a three-hole playoff with May. And in 2014, the PGA had one of its most memorable finishes as McIlroy asserted himself on the 18th tee, finishing in the dark to avoid having to return the next day to complete his one-stroke win.

7. NEW GRASS

Louisville occupies what turfgrass folks call the “transition zone.” That is the mid-central region of the United States, which is in between a more Northern climate that favors bentgrass and a Southern climate suited for Bermudagrass. The mid-season heat and humidity that Valhalla endures is not ideal for cool-season grasses, and that meant that the club’s original bentgrass fairways and tees were prone to wilting and required extra care.

In 2021, the club switched 30 acres of fairway and teeing grounds to Zeon Zoysia, a fine-bladed turfgrass that thrives in the local conditions and requires less water, chemicals and labor. That leads to annual savings of $250,000 in maintenance.

From a competition standpoint, the Zoysia will play firmer, faster and effectively speed up the ground game, placing more of a premium on accurate ballstriking. That shrinks the playing surface because the ball will roll more after landing. In other words, it’s a more sustainable playing surface that also requires more precise play. It’s a win-win.

8. NEW GREENS

Valhalla’s greens, which were rebuilt in 2011, are on the small side for championship golf. They average approximately 5,000 square feet, which makes them the third-smallest thus far in the PGA TOUR season. Only those at Pebble Beach (3,500 square feet) and Harbour Town (3,700) have been smaller. This also is just the third time in 2024 that the TOUR pros will face bentgrass putting surfaces, following those at Augusta National and TPC Craig Ranch recently for THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson.

Valhalla’s greens are visible from the approach area, even if not every pin placement can be seen. The course generally presents itself very well visually, a design trait of Nicklaus. With putting surfaces mowed to 1/10th of an inch, they will likely support speeds of 12-12.5 on the Stimpmeter. The breaks tend to be subtle, not swooping, and particular attention must be paid to putts inside 5-6 feet given the presence of modest contours at the cup.

9. SUPER STUFF

Valhalla’s superintendent, John Bollard, is a 25-year veteran of the turfgrass industry. He has spent the past five years at Valhalla, where he oversaw the installation of the Zeon Zoysia fairways and tees. He’s also been prepping for his first professional major through close observation of the set-ups at Southern Hills for the 2022 PGA and last year at Oak Hill. It helps having a brand-new shop and storage area, plus the support of three assistants, a total of 40 employees, and – for championship week – another 125 volunteers.

He'll have Valhalla ready for another memorable finish.

Valhalla Golf Club 2024 PGA Championship

Card of the course:

Bradley S. Klein is a veteran golf writer and author of 10 books on course design. A former PGA TOUR caddie, he was architecture editor of Golfweek for over two decades and is now a freelance journalist and course design consultant. Follow Bradley S. Klein on Twitter .

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Kendrick Lamar vs. Drake Beef Goes Nuclear: What to Know

The two rappers had circled one another for more than a decade, but their attacks turned relentless and very personal in a slew of tracks released over the weekend.

By Joe Coscarelli

The long-building and increasingly testy rap beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake exploded into full-bore acrimony and unverifiable accusations over the weekend. Both artists rapid-fire released multiple songs littered with attacks regarding race, appropriation, sexual and physical abuse, body image, misogyny, hypocrisy, generational trauma and more.

Most relentless was Lamar, a Pulitzer Prize winner from Compton, Calif., who tends toward the isolated and considered but has now released four verbose and conceptual diss tracks — totaling more than 20 minutes of new music — targeting Drake in the last week, including three since Friday.

Each racked up millions of streams and the three that were made available commercially — “Euphoria,” “Meet the Grahams” and “Not Like Us” — are expected to land near the top of next week’s Billboard singles chart, while seeming to, at least momentarily, shift the public perception of Drake, long a maestro of the online public arena and meme ecosystem .

In between, on Friday night, Drake released his own broadside against Lamar — plus a smattering of other recent challengers — in a teasing Instagram interlude plus a three-part track and elaborate music video titled “Family Matters,” in which he referred to his rival as a fake activist and attempted to expose friction and alleged abuse in Lamar’s romantic relationship.

But that song was followed within half an hour by Lamar’s “Meet the Grahams,” an ominous extended address to the parents and young son of Drake, born Aubrey Graham, in which Lamar refers to his rival rapper as a liar and “pervert” who “should die” in order to make the world safer for women.

Lamar also seemed to assert that Drake had more than a decade ago fathered a secret daughter — echoing the big reveal of his son from Drake’s last headline rap beef — a claim Drake quickly denied on Instagram before hitting back in another song on Sunday. (Neither man has addressed the full array of rapped allegations directly.)

On Tuesday, a security guard was shot and seriously injured outside of Drake’s Toronto home, which appeared on the cover art for Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” Authorities said they could not yet speak to a motive in the shooting, but the investigation was ongoing. Representatives for Drake and Lamar did not immediately comment.

How did two of the most famous artists in the world decide to take the gloves off and bring real-life venom into an extended sparring match for rap supremacy? It was weeks, months and years in the making, with a sudden, breakneck escalation into hip-hop infamy. Here’s a breakdown.

Since late March, the much-anticipated head-to-head seemed inevitable. Following years of “will they or won’t they?” lyrical feints, Lamar hit directly on record first this year during a surprise appearance on the song “Like That” by the Atlanta rapper Future and the producer Metro Boomin, both formerly frequent Drake collaborators.

With audible disgust, Lamar invoked the track “First Person Shooter” from last year’s Drake album, “For All the Dogs,” in which a guest verse from J. Cole referred to himself, Drake and Lamar as “the big three” of modern MCs.

Lamar took exception to the grouping, declaring that there was no big three, “just big me.” He also called himself the Prince to Drake’s Michael Jackson — a deeper, more complex artist versus a troubled, pop-oriented hitmaker.

“Like That” spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, as Future and Metro Boomin released two chart-topping albums — “We Don’t Trust You” and “We Still Don’t Trust You” — that were anchored by a parade of Drake’s past associates, each of whom seemed to share a simmering distaste toward the rapper, who later called the ambush a “20 v. 1” fight.

In early April, J. Cole fought back momentarily , releasing the song “7 Minute Drill,” in which he called Lamar overrated, before backtracking, apologizing and having the song removed from streaming services. But Drake soon picked up the baton, releasing a wide-ranging diss track called “Push Ups” less than a week later that addressed the field, with a special focus on Lamar’s height, shoe size and supposedly disadvantageous business dealings.

Less than a week later, Drake mocked Lamar’s lack of a response on “Taylor Made Freestyle,” a track released only on social media. It featured Drake taunting Lamar for being scared to release music at the same time as Taylor Swift and using A.I. voice filters to mimic Tupac and Snoop Dogg imploring Lamar to battle for the good of the West Coast.

“Since ‘Like That,’ your tone changed a little, you not as enthused,” Drake rapped in an abbreviated third verse, as himself. “How are you not in the booth? It feel like you kinda removed.” (“Taylor Made Freestyle” was later removed from the internet at the request of the Tupac Estate.)

But it was a seemingly tossed-off line from the earlier “Push Ups” that included the name of Lamar’s longtime romantic partner — “I be with some bodyguards like Whitney” — that Lamar would later allude to as a red line crossed, making all subject matter fair game in the songs to come. (It was this same alleged faux pas that may have triggered an intensification of Drake’s beef with Pusha T in 2018.)

How We Got Here

Even with Drake-dissing cameos from Future, Ye (formerly Kanye West), Rick Ross, the Weeknd and ASAP Rocky, the main event was always going to be between Drake, 37, and Lamar, 36, who have spent more than a decade subtly antagonizing one another in songs while maintaining an icy frenemy rapport in public.

In 2011, when Drake introduced Lamar to mainstream audiences with a dedicated showcase on his second album, “Take Care,” and an opening slot on the subsequent arena tour, the tone was one of side-eying competition. “He said that he was the same age as myself/and it didn’t help ’cause it made me even more rude and impatient,” Lamar rapped on “Buried Alive Interlude” of his earliest encounter with a more-famous Drake. (On his Instagram on Friday, Drake released a parody of the track, citing Lamar’s jealousy since then.)

The pair went on to appear together on “Poetic Justice,” a single from Lamar’s debut album, “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City,” in 2012, as well as “___ Problems” by ASAP Rocky the same year.

But their collaborations ceased as Drake became his generation’s premier hitmaker across styles in hip-hop and beyond, while Lamar burrowed deeper into his own psyche on knotty concept albums that brought wide critical acclaim alongside less constant commercial success.

When asked, the two rappers tended to profess admiration for one another’s skill, but seemed to trade subtle digs in verses over the years, always with plausible deniability and in the spirit of competition, leading to something of a hip-hop cold war.

The Week It Went Nuclear

Lamar’s first targeted response, “Euphoria,” was more than six minutes long and released last Tuesday morning. In three sections that raised the temperature as they built, he warned Drake about proceeding and insisted, somewhat facetiously, that things were still friendly. “Know you a master manipulator and habitual liar too,” Lamar rapped. “But don’t tell no lie about me and I won’t tell truths ’bout you.”

He accused the biracial Drake, who was born and raised in Toronto, of imitating Black American heritage and insulting him subliminally. “I hate the way that you walk, the way that you talk, I hate the way that you dress,” Lamar said. “I hate the way that you sneak diss, if I catch flight, it’s gon’ be direct.” And he called Drake’s standing as a father into question: “Teachin’ him morals, integrity, discipline/listen, man, you don’t know nothin’ ’bout that.”

Days later, Lamar doubled down with an Instagram-only track called “6:16 in LA,” borrowing both Drake’s “Back to Back” diss tactic from his 2015 beef with Meek Mill and a song title structure lifted from what is known as Drake’s time-stamp series of raps. Opting for psychological warfare on a beat produced in part by Jack Antonoff, Swift’s chief collaborator, Lamar hinted that he had a mole in Drake’s operation and was aware of his opponent’s opposition research.

“Fake bully, I hate bullies, you must be a terrible person,” he rapped. “Everyone inside your team is whispering that you deserve it.”

That night, Drake’s “Family Matters” started with its own justification for getting personal — “You mentioned my seed, now deal with his dad/I gotta go bad, I gotta go bad” — before taking on Lamar’s fatherhood and standing as a man in excruciating detail. “They hired a crisis management team to clean up the fact that you beat on your queen,” Drake rapped. “The picture you painted ain’t what it seem/you’re dead.”

Yet in a chess move that seemed to anticipate Drake’s familial line of attack, Lamar’s “Meet the Grahams” was released almost immediately. “This supposed to be a good exhibition within the game,” Lamar said, noting that Drake had erred “the moment you called out my family’s name.” Instead of a rap battle, Lamar concluded after another six minutes of psychological dissection, “this a long life battle with yourself.”

He wasn’t done yet. Dispensing with subtlety, Lamar followed up again less than 24 hours later with “Not Like Us,” a bouncy club record in a Los Angeles style that delighted in more traditional rap beef territory, like juvenile insults, proudly unsubstantiated claims of sexual preferences and threats of violence.

Lamar, however, didn’t leave it at that, throwing one more shot at Drake’s authenticity as a rapper, calling him a greedy and artificial user as a collaborator — “not a colleague,” but a “colonizer.”

On Sunday evening, Drake responded yet again. On “The Heart Part 6,” a title taken from Lamar’s career-spanning series, Drake denied the accusation that he preyed on young women, indicated that he had planted the bad information about his fake daughter and seemed to sigh away the fight as “some good exercise.”

“It’s good to get out, get the pen working,” Drake said in an exhausted outro. “You would be a worthy competitor if I was really a predator.” He added, “You know, at least your fans are getting some raps out of you. I’m happy I could motivate you.”

Joe Coscarelli is a culture reporter with a focus on popular music, and the author of “Rap Capital: An Atlanta Story.” More about Joe Coscarelli

Explore the World of Hip-Hop

The long-building and increasingly testy rap beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake  has exploded into full-bore acrimony .

As their influence and success continue to grow, artists including Sexyy Red and Cardi B are destigmatizing motherhood for hip-hop performers .

ValTown, an account on X and other social media platforms, spotlights gangs and drug kingpins of the 1980s and 1990s , illustrating how they have driven the aesthetics and the narratives of hip-hop.

Three new books cataloging objects central to rap’s physical history  demonstrate the importance of celebrating these relics before they vanish.

Hip-hop got its start in a Bronx apartment building 50 years ago. Here’s how the concept of home has been at the center of the genre ever since .

Over five decades, hip-hop has grown from a new art form to a culture-defining superpower . In their own words, 50 influential voices chronicle its evolution .

All 9 Drake and Kendrick Lamar 2024 diss songs, including 'Not Like Us' and 'Part 6'

It's been a wild few months for Drake , Kendrick Lamar and rap fans in general, as the two rappers have traded barbs (and bars) over the last several weeks in a beef that has grown more serious than many expected.

Lamar and Drake's feud  goes back more than a decade  to 2013, when Lamar rapped on the Big Sean song "Control" about how he wanted to "murder" Drake and other prominent rappers. Though Lamar clarified at the time that the track was intended to spur friendly competition, things between the rap stars couldn't be less friendly now.

In a rap battle that has brought up everything from Ozempic rumors and height shaming to sobering allegations of abuse and grooming, here's what to know.

March: Kendrick Lamar escalates long-brewing Drake feud with 'Like That'

The rappers' feud intensified with Lamar appearing on  Future and Metro Boomin 's " Like That ," released March 22. In Lamar's verse, seemingly in reference to Drake, he said: "It's time for him to prove that he's a problem."

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

He later rejected the idea of there being a "big three" in rap, declaring on the track, "It's just big me." The lyric was a response to J. Cole referring to himself, Drake and Lamar as the "big three" on Drake's October 2023 track "First Person Shooter."

J. Cole apologizes to Kendrick Lamar for 'lame' diss '7 Minute Drill after "Like That"

Mid-April: Drake releases 'Push Ups' and 'Taylor Made Freestyle' disses

Drake officially entered the ring with a full diss track against Lamar (and other artists including Rick Ross and The Weeknd) in " Push Ups " on April 19.

"Pipsqueak, pipe down / You ain't in no big three," Drake rapped, in between bars about Lamar's shoe size, record deal contract and collaborations with Maroon 5 and Taylor Swift.

Drake fired back again with "Taylor Made Freestyle" on the same day. The song, which featured artificial intelligence impersonations of Snoop Dogg and Tupac got the Toronto-born rapper in hot water with Tupac's estate and was pulled from streaming services.

"Kendrick, we need ya, the West Coast savior / Engraving your name in some hip-hop history," the Tupac audio deepfake raps in "Taylor Made." "If you deal with this viciously / You seem a little nervous about all the publicity."

Late April: Kendrick Lamar calls Drake a 'scam artist' on 'Euphoria' diss

Lamar responded with his first full diss track, " Euphoria, " just over a week later on April 30. The "Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers" rapper referenced "Taylor Made Freestyle" by rapping that Tupac is turning "in his grave."

Lamar goes on to call Drake, who is a producer on the HBO series, a "pathetic master manipulator" and a "habitual liar" who is "not a rap artist" but "a scam artist."

Kendrick Lamar drops brutal Drake diss track 'Euphoria' amid feud: Listen

May 3: Kendrick Lamar goes after Drake's OVO record label on '6:16 in LA'

Lamar released " 6:16 in LA " on the morning of May 3, with the song title referencing Drake's popularized timestamp song format.

In it, Lamar takes a shot at Drake's label and team, rapping, "Have you ever thought OVO is working for me?" before calling Drake a "fake bully." He continues: "I hate bullies / You must be a terrible person / Everyone inside your team whispering that you deserve it."

Kendrick Lamar doubles down with fiery Drake diss: Listen to '6:16 in LA'

May 3: Drake makes Kendrick Lamar abuse allegations on 'Family Matters'

Fourteen hours later, Drake followed up with the diss track " Family Matters " on the night of May 3. Drake again addressed Lamar among disses aimed at fellow rappers like A$AP Rocky in the three-part, nearly eight-minute track.

But Drake's shots at the "DAMN." rapper were more severe, with the "More Life" rapper explicitly claiming Lamar physically abuses fiancée Whitney Alford. "When you put your hands on your girl, is it self-defense 'cause she bigger than you?" Drake rapped.

Drake, Kendrick Lamar diss tracks escalate with 'Meet the Grahams' and 'Family Matters'

May 3: Kendrick Lamar makes sex crime and hidden daughter allegations on 'Meet the Grahams'

Minutes after "Family Matters," Lamar laid out gossip and  Ozempic rumors against Drake amid serious allegations of abuse, addiction and a second hidden child in " Meet the Grahams ." The more than six-minute response sees Lamar talking to Drake's family, including his son Adonis and his parents, as well as an alleged 11-year-old daughter, whom Drake has not claimed publicly.

Lamar later alluded to sex crime allegations and Drake's association with sex offenders: "Him and (Harvey) Weinstein should" be "in a cell for the rest they life," Lamar says. He later adds, "He got sex offenders" on record label OVO "that he keep on a monthly allowance."

May 4: Kendrick Lamar goes further with allegations on 'Not Like Us'

On May 4, Lamar's allegations went even further and he seemingly alluded to previous allegations of grooming against Drake on " Not Like Us ."

"Say, Drake, I hear you like (them) young. You better not ever go to cell block one," Lamar raps. "To any (girl) that talk to him and they in love, just make sure you hide your (little) sister from him."

The "Poetic Justice" rapper also took shots at some of Drake's musical colleagues, appearing to reference R&B singer PartyNextDoor and rapper Baka Not Nice, both of whom are signed to Drake's record label OVO Sound: "And Party at the party, playing with his nose now. And Baka got a weird case, why is he around? Certified Lover Boy? Certified pedophiles," Lamar raps.

Kendrick Lamar fuels Drake feud with new diss track 'Not Like Us': What the rapper is saying

May 5: Drake brings up Kendrick Lamar's sexual abuse on 'The Heart Part 6'

On May 5, Drake upped the ante by releasing the somber diss " The Heart Part 6 ," a reference to Lamar's track series, including 2022's "The Heart Part 5."

"Speakin' of anything with a child, let's get to that now / This Epstein angle was the (expletive) I expected / TikTok videos you collected and dissected," he rapped.

Drake later brings up Lamar's  "Mother I Sober " song, off his "Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers" studio album, in which the Compton rapper alludes to familial accusations of sexual assault. "Wait a second, that's that one record where you say you got molested," Drake raps. "I just made the whole connection / This about to get so depressing / This is trauma from your own confessions."

Drake denies Kendrick Lamar's grooming allegations in new diss track 'The Heart Part 6'

Contributing: Edward Segarra, KiMi Robinson, Anika Reed, Brendan Marrow and Naledi Ushe

Advertisement

Big names show up, a favorable free drop highlight a busy thursday at 2024 wells fargo championship, share this article.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — One of the main criticisms the PGA Tour has faced so far this 2024 season with regard to its high-profile signature events has been the lack of stars at the top of the leaderboard in the early rounds.

The big players showed out early and often during the first round of the 2024 Wells Fargo Championship on Thursday at Quail Hollow Club, as did a handful of lesser-known names who earned their way into the elevated tournament that offers up a $20 million purse.

From the likes of Xander Schauffele, Collin Morikawa, Justin Thomas and Jason Day all in the top five to a controversial ruling and impressive performances from sponsor exemption players, here’s what you missed from a busy (and wet) opening round of the 2024 Wells Fargo Championship.

Wells Fargo: Friday tee times

Schauffele jumps out to early lead (and gets a favorable rules decision)

Xander Schauffele watches a tee shot on the 12th hole during the first round of the Wells Fargo Championship at Quail Hollow Country Club on May 09, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

Xander Schauffele had just one blemish on a near-perfect scorecard in Thursday’s first round as the 30-year-old fired a 7-under 64 to take an early three-shot lead after the opening 18 holes.

Starting on the back nine, Schauffele birdied five of his first eight holes before he made his lone bogey of the round on the par-4 18th. After the turn to the front nine he rode the par train for Nos. 1- 6 before he made an impressive eagle on the par-5 7th and birdie on the par-4 9th holes.

Schauffele is winless this season but does have seven top-10 finishes under his belt. Earlier in the week he addressed the state of his game saying “a little bit of everything” has been working but he hasn’t “really been able to get everything together at once.”

Today he was able to piece it all together, and he also benefitted from a free drop despite hitting his ball into a penalty area on the par-4 8th hole. More on that here .

A tough start to Wyndham Clark's title defense

Wyndham Clark pitches up to on the 14th green during the first round of the Wells Fargo Championship golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Wyndham Clark jumpstarted his breakout year on Tour here at Quail Hollow last year with his first-ever PGA Tour win, but the world No. 3’s title defense got off to a shaky start as Clark signed for a 2-over 73 on Thursday. He was one of 26 players that finished over par on a soggy course that was hampered by rain on Wednesday night and Thursday morning.

After starting on No. 10, Clark had a psycho scorecard (shoutout Shane Bacon) early in the round as he made birdie on No. 10, back-to-back double bogeys on Nos. 11 and 12 and three straight birdies on Nos. 13-15. He’s off the pace early, but there’s still plenty of time to climb back into contention, not to mention there’s no cut in the Tour’s sixth signature event of the season.

New look No. 16 has same results

Hole 16 to the right and hole 17 green to the left view from 14 green during the first round of the Wells Fargo Championship golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

The new tee box on the par-4 16th was the talk of the town before the start of the tournament as Quail Hollow made the second-hardest hole on the property all the more challenging (in theory).

No. 16 had a scoring average of 4.27 last year, and after moving the tee back 20 yards to bring the scorecard yardage to 529 yards, Thursday’s scoring average came in at 4.21. Just three birdies were made to go along with 49 pars, 15 bogeys and one double bogey.

“The new tee on 16 is a bear,” said Webb Simpson, a Quail Hollow member since 2011 and resident since 2014, before the tournament began. “The question before for me was can I ever carry the bunker and I only could downwind. Now the bunker’s not really even in play.”

“It definitely makes that second shot really unique,” Max Homa said. “That’s a tough second shot, so I think that’s fun to — I think it is one of those rare positive changes of moving a tee that far back and actually continuing to give the long guys an advantage but kind of making them hit into a similar width fairway that the rest of us are.”

As Quail Hollow prepares to host next year’s PGA Championship, a new tee was also added to the par-3 13th to add 10 yards, greens were resurfaced with Tif Eagle Bermudagrass and 12 putting surfaces saw slopes get softened to offer better hole locations at higher green speeds. In addition to the new tees and greens, bunkers were also rebuilt with new drainage, liners and sand.

Rory McIlroy was a big fan of the Tom Brady roast

Telling someone else’s joke usually doesn’t go well, especially when you fumble the punchline, but that didn’t stop McIlroy from re-hashing one of Nikki Glaser’s many zingers at Netflix’s roast of Tom Brady.

Sounds like @McIlroyRory was a big fan of the @TomBrady roast 😂 pic.twitter.com/Ji8Wjz8275 — PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) May 9, 2024

Oh yeah, he’s also part of a seven-person subcommittee that will be negotiating with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.

How did the sponsor exemptions fare?

Matt Kuchar hits a tee shot on the first hole during the first round of the Wells Fargo Championship at Quail Hollow Country Club on May 09, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

PGA Tour policy board member Webb Simpson defended his fourth sponsor exemption to the Tour’s sixth big-money signature event of the season earlier in the week before the tournament and backed up his argument with his play on Thursday. The Quail Hollow member rolled out of his own bed on Thursday morning and shot a 1-under 70 to sit T-16 after the opening 18 holes.

His fellow sponsor invites Matt Kuchar (69, T-12), Adam Scott (71, T-31) and Gary Woodland (70, T-16) also showed up to play. For all the debate on the players receiving invites (and if invites should even be allowed for signature events), the four in the field this week have backed up their selection so far.

Check out the best equipment you can buy: Best drivers for 2024 | Best irons for 2024 | Best putters for 2024 | Best golf balls for 2024

Most Popular

2024 wells fargo championship prize money payouts for each pga tour player, meet the 16 liv golf players in the field for the 2024 pga championship at valhalla, 2024 myrtle beach classic prize money payouts for each pga tour player, early look at the top 10 betting favorites for the pga championship 2024, 2024 cognizant founders cup prize money payouts for all the lpga golfers at upper montclair country club, brandel chamblee and liv golf's anthony kim have heated, profanity-laden exchange on social media, liv golf’s midseason trade window is open. here’s what to expect from the 13 teams.

• pop Culture
• Facebook Navigation Icon
• Twitter Navigation Icon
• WhatsApp icon
• Instagram Navigation Icon
• Youtube Navigation Icon
• Snapchat Navigation Icon
• TikTok Navigation Icon
• pigeons & planes
• newsletters
• Youtube logo nav bar 0 youtube
• Instagram Navigation Icon instagram
• Twitter Navigation Icon x
• Facebook logo facebook
• TikTok Navigation Icon tiktok
• Snapchat Navigation Icon snapchat
• Apple logo apple news
• Flipboard logo nav bar 1 flipboard
• Instagram Navigation Icon google news
• WhatsApp icon whatsapp
• RSS feed icon rss feed

Complex Global

• united states
• united kingdom
• netherlands
• philippines
• complex chinese

Work with us

terms of use

privacy policy

cookie settings

california privacy

public notice

accessibility statement

COMPLEX participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means COMPLEX gets paid commissions on purchases made through our links to retailer sites. Our editorial content is not influenced by any commissions we receive.

© Complex Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Complex.com is a part of

Vince Staples Gets Asked About Drake and Kendrick Beef, Gives In-Depth Answer About Music Industry

“While Taylor Swift is fighting for people to be able to have streaming money, n***as is on the internet arguing with each other about some rap sh*t," said Staples.

Vince Staples wants fans to look at the bigger picture when it comes to Drake and Kendrick Lamar ’s ongoing feud.

The 30-year-old rapper and actor made an appearance at Long Beach, California’s inaugural “Youth Day in the LBC” on Saturday. The event featured a special town hall with Long Beach Mayor Rex Richard, 40, in conversation with Staples, where young fans were given the opportunity to ask him questions.

One fan in particular was eager to get Staples’ take on who is winning the ongoing rap war between Drizzy, 37, and K Dot, 36.

Staples explained that he’s been signed to Universal Music Group since he was 17 years old and has since noticed some major changes in the music industry that affect creatives working in the music industry.

“That record label just folded all of its independent labels and subsidiaries into each other,” Staples explained, how during his childhood there were other competing labels such as Def Jam and Roc-A-Fella Records. 

Vince Staples was asked for his thoughts on the Drake/Kendrick beef by a member of the audience at an event in Long Beach today. Video via keepkempin on TikTok pic.twitter.com/CnTLKQhuQl — Pigeons & Planes (@PigsAndPlans) May 5, 2024

“None of them exist no more. They fired all the heads of the labels and if they didn't, they turn them into glorified A&Rs. They cut off 50 percent of the people who work in all these departments, most of those people is us, people of color, that come from hip-hop and R&B and these other things, right?” he added.

He continued, “Then you got record labels opening up IPOs. You got record labels destroying their relationships with TikTok , Spotify , things that pay our artists because they want to start their own shit.”

Staples is referring to Universal Music Group’s highly-publicized spat with TikTok that had the music conglomerate removing its catalogue of music from the video-sharing app in January after failed negotiations over royalties and AI-related issues. UMG recently reinstated its offerings, featuring hit songs from artists like Drake and Billie Eilish , back to the platform on Thursday after a three-month standoff.

The rapper explained that Black artists are feeling the effects of the actions of record labels in the streaming era. Instead of focusing on the rap battles, Staples points to Taylor Swift, 34, as an example of a prominent musician fighting for artists.

“So then we getting priced out of our contracts, we getting priced out of our imprints. There are no labels, basically, that are incentivized to sign Black music and it's happening in front of our eyes,” he said. “While Taylor Swift is fighting for people to be able to have streaming money, n***as is on the internet arguing with each other about some rap shit. So that's how I feel about it, honestly.”

As noted by Billboard ’s Chris Eggertsen, Swift fought for artist’s rights when she withdrew her music from Spotify in November 2014 in protest of low royalty payments from the streaming platform’s “freemium” model. The following year, Swift successfully pressured Apple Music to pay artists during a user’s three-month free trial period by threatening to withhold her then-new album 1989 from their platform.

“Personally, I think we better than that. I think we deserve better than that because we've been saying for decades that we want people to respect Black music and Black art and Black people,” Staples added. “I think for that to happen, we gotta respect ourselves and they don't make it easy for us, but we gotta try to work a little bit harder at that.”

Staples went one step further after Mayor Richardson reiterated the importance of uplifting Black artists instead of “celebrating” tearing each other down.

View this photo on Instagram

“Black people though because, you know, the dude that work at Dunkin Donuts is [as] important as Drake and Kendrick cuz it's an ecosystem. We all matter and I think that's our problem is that we looking too high up. We need to kind of look at each other. If we don't do that then we wasting our time,” said Staples at the 46:39 mark .

Staples still had more to say on the matter and brought his thoughts over to X (formerly known as Twitter) and wrote, “See the problem with hip hop is white people too comfortable. We need to treat y’all how y’all treat us at Trader Joe’s.”

See the problem with hip hop is white people too comfortable. We need to treat y’all how y’all treat us at Trader Joe’s. — vince (@vincestaples) May 5, 2024

They be like “What you think keeway?” And then I tell them and then they be like “SHUT YO BITCH ASS UP NIGGA YOU NOT PAC” — vince (@vincestaples) May 5, 2024

Put the art first keeway — vince (@vincestaples) May 5, 2024

He continued, “They be like “What you think keeway?” And then I tell them and then they be like ‘SHUT YO BITCH ASS UP N***A YOU NOT PAC’”

“Put the art first keeway,” he added.

Meanwhile, the rap war of 2024 rages on between Drake and Kendrick, who traded some scathing bars over the weekend with their latest musical offerings. On Friday night, Drizzy dropped “ Family Matters ” in response to K Dot’s “ Euphoria .” Dot simultaneously released “ Meet the Grahams ” followed by “ Not Like Us ” on Saturday. 

Metro Boomin dropped “BBL Drizzy” early Sunday morning, featuring a reworked sample of an original, Motown-style parody song by comedian King Willonius, who was likely inspired by Rick Ross ’ relentless allegation that Drake had the infamous buttocks augmentation procedure.

SHARE THIS STORY

Complex Music Newsletter

Stay ready. The playlists, good reads and video interviews you need—delivered every week.

By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you’re agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You are also agreeing to our

Latest in Music

| BY MARK ELIBERT

21 Savage Calls Drake and Metro Boomin His Brothers, Says They’ll ‘Figure That Sh*t Out'

Here Are the First Week Sales Projections for Gunna's 'One of Wun'

| BY ALEX OCHO

Ludacris on Why No Artist Has Had an ‘Emotional Impact’ Quite Like 2Pac

Soulja Boy Disses Metro Boomin and 21 Savage Over Old Tweet: "U Pussy N***az!!!"

Drake Says ‘Summer Vibes’ Are on the Way

TLC’s Chilli Says Boyfriend Matthew Lawrence Helped Ease Her Fear of Marriage

| BY BRAD CALLAS

Watch 4Batz Perform in Dallas, Says "Act V: There Goes Another Vase" Is 'His Sh*t'

Drake's Security Stops Third Trespasser at Toronto Mansion

| BY JAELANI TURNER-WILLIAMS

Black Thought Talks About 'Scaring Off' J. Cole From Collaboration, Praises Rapper for Apologizing to Kendrick Lamar

Ice Cube's Big 3 League Sells Its First Basketball Team, Announces Major Changes