Although hip hop debuted in the 1980s, the gangsta rap movement captured fans’ attention. Gangsta rap swiftly rose to prominence within the genre thanks to its candid and harsh lyrics that illustrate life on the streets. Beginning rappers like N.W.A., Tupac Shakur, and Notorious B.I.G. paved the way for future rappers to share their tales of hardship and victories from coast to coast. The top 40 gangsta rappers of all time, from hip hop pioneers to contemporary icons who continue to shatter glass ceilings in hip-hop culture, will be ranked throughout this definitive list.
40. The D.O.C.
The D.O.C., born Tracy Lynn Curry, is possibly the most underrated artist in gangsta rap, though he is well respected among the “old heads” of hip hop.
As a member of the influential group N.W.A. and a contributor to Dr. Dre’s classic album, The Chronic, The D.O.C.’s impact on West Coast hip-hop cannot be overstated.
Despite a tragic car accident that severely damaged his vocal cords, The D.O.C. remains an important figure in the history of gangsta rap.
39. Scarface
The legendary Houston rapper Scarface is known for his vivid storytelling and smooth flow. His career started in the influential Geto Boys before embarking on a successful solo career.
Scarface’s debut album, Mr. Scarface Is Back, was released in 1991 and showcased his ability to paint vivid pictures with his lyrics.
Throughout his career, Scarface has released numerous successful albums, such as The Diary and The Fix, cementing his place among the best gangsta rappers ever.
38. Mack 10
Known for his aggressive and gritty style, Mack 10 rose to fame in the 1990s. Street life heavily influenced his upbringing, including drug dealing and gang activity. One of Mack 10’s most notable albums is Based on a True Story, which collaborates with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, such as Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, and Big Pun. The legendary album demonstrates his ability to create hardcore gangsta rap tracks with catchy hooks and memorable beats. Despite violent themes in his lyrics, Mack 10 has also been involved in philanthropic efforts. This includes donating funds for scholarships and creating job opportunities for at-risk youth. He leveraged his success to give back to his community and make a positive impact. Mack 10’s impact on hip-hop culture cannot be denied because he paved the way for West Coast rappers with his raw style and authentic storytelling.
37. WC
William “WC” Calhoun Jr. is a West Coast gangsta rap legend. As a WC and Maad Circle member, he played a pivotal role in shaping the West Coast hip-hop sound in the 1990s.
The group consisted of WC, Big Gee, Coolio, and DJ Crazy Toones. Moreover, WC’s distinct “Crip Walk” dance and exceptional storytelling abilities make him an impressive figure in gangsta rap history.
36. Kurupt
Kurupt, one-half of the hip-hop duo Tha Dogg Pound, is a respected lyricist in gangsta rap.
His smooth flow and intricate wordplay have garnered critical acclaim, while his collaborations with artists like Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and Daz Dillinger have cemented his place as a West Coast rap icon.
35. T.I.
T.l., also known as the “King of the South,” has been a driving force in the gangsta rap scene since his debut album, I’m Serious, in 2001. Combining short street narratives with a unique Southern twang, T.I.’s music has resonated with fans worldwide.
With multiple Grammy Awards and numerous hit singles, T.I. continues to be a force in the industry.
34. The Game
Hailing from Compton, California, The Game rose to fame as a member of 50 Cent’s G-Unit crew. His debut album, The Documentary, quickly became a classic, showcasing his storytelling prowess and deep-rooted connection to the streets of Los Angeles.
The Game continues to release successful albums, so he is widely regarded as one of the best all-time gangsta rappers.
33. Warren G
Rapper and record producer Warren G became well-known in the early 1990s. With his debut album Regulate, he became a significant figure in the West Coast hip-hop scene and contributed to the growth of G-funk music. “Regulate” and “This D.J.” were popular songs from the “G Funk Era.”
Warren G began his career as a musician after joining Nate Dogg and Snoop Dogg to establish the group “213.” Together, they released their first successful single, “Ain’t No Fun”.
Warren G joined Def Jam Recordings after leaving Death Row Records, where he recorded numerous popular albums, including I want it all, Take A Look Over Your Shoulder, and The Return of the Regulator.
Warren G has produced music for artists other than himself, including Tupac Shakur, MC Breed, and The Dove Shack.
Additionally, he has worked with many performers, including Mack 10, Kurupt, Nate Dogg, and Adina Howard. Warren G’s unique approach and contributions to West Coast hip-hop have cemented his status as one of the genre’s iconic figures.
32. DMX
DMX, born Earl Simmons, is a rapper from Yonkers, New York, known for his aggressive and energetic style. He burst onto the scene in the 1990s. In the late 90s, his debut album It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot featured tracks such as “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” and “Get at Me Dog.”
DMX’s music often dealt with themes of violence, crime, and personal struggle, making him a prominent figure in gangsta rap.
Despite numerous legal and personal issues throughout his career, DMX’s impact on the genre cannot be denied.
After hip-hop icon DMX’s April 2021 death, his official cause of death was revealed: the rapper died at 50 from a heart attack. His heavy cocaine usage cut off blood flow to his brain, which was fatal.
31. Nate Dogg
Nathaniel Dwayne Hale, popularly known as Nate Dogg, a West Coast rapper, and vocalist, rose to fame for his slick vocals and iconic hooks. Born in 1969 in Long Beach, California, he started playing music in the early 1990s.
Nate Dogg first rose to recognition due to his work on The Chronic, the debut album by Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Warren G. His soulful voice gave gangsta rap the distinctive touch it lacked before he arrived.
With songs like “Regulate” featuring Warren G and “Ain’t No Fun” featuring Snoop Dogg, Nate continued to have hits throughout the decade.
Nate released many solo albums on top of his work as a featured artist on other rappers’ songs. When he sang about love or heartbreak rather than just rapping about street life, his rich baritone voice made him stand out even more.
Nate tragically died at the young age of 41 from complications brought on by several strokes.
However, because so many musicians continue to sample and incorporate his timeless hooks into their songs, his legacy continues to be recognized among modern gangsta rappers.
30. King Von
Before his sorrowful demise in November 2020, King Von was a rising talent in the rap scene. King Von was born Dayvon Bennett, grew up in Chicago’s South Side, and started rapping at a young age.
His mixtapes “Grandson Vol. 1” and “LeVon James,” which featured his exceptional narrative talents, garnered respect. King Von’s lyrics were raw and sincere, frequently describing his experiences surviving on the streets and growing up in poverty.
Due to his catchy choruses and melodic delivery, his music appealed internationally and resonated with individuals who could identify with his difficulties.
King Von significantly impacted the rap scene despite only being active briefly. His collaborations with Lil Durk, a fellow Chicagoan, helped him flourish as one of the most promising rappers of his time.
King Von’s legacy will continue through his music and influence on those who listened to him. However, it’s unfortunate that future generations won’t have the opportunity to see all that he may have accomplished.
29. YG
Compton native YG, whose full name is Keenon Daequan Ray Jackson, is most known for his unpolished lyrics. His 2009 mixtape “The Real 4Fingaz” brought him notoriety for the first time, and he has since released five studio albums.
In contrast to other gangster rappers, YG can incorporate political commentary into his street storytelling slickly. In songs like “Police Get Away With Murder” and “Blacks & Browns,” he speaks out against the systemic racism and police violence that plague communities of color. YG doesn’t hesitate to turn up, either, though.
His singles like “My N***a” and “Who Do You Love?” demonstrate that he can also produce bangers. But YG has expanded his activism for social justice concerns beyond just his music.
With fellow rapper and Black Lives Matter activist Krs-One, he led a nonviolent protest march through Hollywood in May 2020 in response to the death of George Floyd.
Thanks to his rapper and activist skills, YG is one of the most significant figures in hip-hop.
28. Nipsey Hussle
Rapper, businessman, and community activist Nipsey Hussle had a profound effect on the music business as well as other fields.
Nip grew up surrounded by gang culture in LA but eventually found a way of expressing himself through music. Early in the 2010s, the success of his mixtapes led to his signing with Atlantic Records. However, Nipsey’s influence went far beyond music.
He was committed to improving his town through various programs, including investing in local businesses and providing former inmates with employment opportunities.
He even started a co-working facility called Vector90. Their objective is to close the gap between Silicon Valley and inner-city youth. Nipsey Hussle’s life ended tragically short in March 2019 when he was shot outside The Marathon Clothing store.
However, his charitable work and ongoing impact on the hip-hop industry ensure that his legacy lives on. In fact, within a few weeks of Nipsey’s passing, fans streamed more than two billion minutes of his music.
In addition to being a remarkably gifted artist, Nipsey will consistently be recognized as an individual who used his platform to improve his neighborhood.
27. Pimp C
Pimp C, named Chad Butler, was one-half of the renowned rap group UGK. He was born in Port Arthur, Texas. With songs like “International Players Anthem” and “Big Pimpin’,” Pimp C and collaborator Bun B contributed to the success of Southern hip-hop.
Gritty storytelling and soulful production reflected Southern reality were staples of Pimp C’s inimitable sound. His songs, which addressed issues like drug addiction and police brutality, were brutally honest and genuine.
Despite being a successful musician, Pimp C battled personal issues throughout his career. He had a long-time battle with drug addiction before sadly dying in 2007 from an accidental overdose.
But Pimp C’s legacy endures long after his passing. Numerous gangster rappers have followed in his footsteps and advanced Southern hip-hop, carrying on his legacy.
Pimp C will always be regarded as one of the most influential figures in gangster rap; therefore, may he rest in peace.
26. Pop Smoke
Before his untimely passing at age 20, Pop Smoke, whose real name is Bashar Barakah Jackson, was a rising sensation in the rap world. He made his debut with songs like “Welcome to the Party” and immediately achieved popularity courtesy of his distinct fusion of melodic flows and New York drill.
Pop Smoke’s deep, gravelly voice, which demanded attention on every song he appeared on, was one of his defining qualities. Although frequently wrote lyrics reflective of street life and violence, he also had a softer side that became apparent in songs like “Something Special.”
Pop Smoke’s life was tragically cut short in February 2020 when he was fatally shot during a home invasion robbery. Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon is one of many posthumous albums that have been released despite this tragedy.
Pop Smoke will always be regarded as one of the most promising young stars in hip-hop who left this world too soon. It is impossible to understate his influence on contemporary rap.
25. Bun B
Bun B is a renowned rapper from Port Arthur, Texas. He first gained notoriety as one-half of the rap duo UGK with Pimp C.
They collaborated to create many timeless records that solidified their position as Southern hip-hop classics. Bun B’s solo career has been equally fruitful, with albums like Trill and II Trill receiving high praise from critics. Fans who value more than simple rhymes love him for his easygoing style and profound words.
In addition to his musical career, Bun B is a social justice activist. He has spoken out against racism and police violence in America and even instructed a course at Rice University on religion and hip-hop.
24. Trae The Truth
Since the early 2000s, Houston-based rapper Trae The Truth has been making waves in the gangster rap scene. With his distinctive drawl and hard-hitting lyrics, Trae’s music often touches on the themes of pain, struggle, and perseverance.
In 2003, he released his debut album, Losing Composure, to critical acclaim. In 2011, Trae released “I’m On,” featuring Wiz Khalifa, Lupe Fiasco, and Big K.R.I.T.
It was an instant classic and cemented his place among the top gangster rappers. Along with his music career, Trae runs a non-profit organization called Angel by Nature.
His foundation helps families affected by natural disasters. Trae’s tendency to give back to his community has earned him respect as a rapper and a humanitarian. His discography speaks for itself when it comes to gangster rap.
Trae is committed to making an impact both in and out of the studio, whether collaborating with other artists or working towards charitable causes.
23. MC Eiht
Born Aaron Tyler, Compton native MC Eiht has been significant in West Coast hip-hop since the late 1980s.
He was an essential member of the rap crew “Compton’s Most Wanted,” which helped create the distinctive gangsta rap style that has come to be associated with California.
With his distinctive voice and gritty songs that vividly portrayed life on the streets, MC Eiht immediately became a household name. He significantly contributed to the popularity of real-life narratives expressed in music.
This exposed listeners to the unpleasant reality many people living in inner cities endure.
22. DJ Quik
One of the most underappreciated and agile rappers in the business is DJ Quik. DJ Quik, born David Marvin Blake, grew up in Compton, California, when gangsta rap was at its peak.
He started composing music while young and became well-known for his production abilities. In 1991, Quik’s “Quik Is The Name” first album was released, and it swiftly gained recognition. With classics like “Tonite” and “Born and Raised in Compton,” he established himself as a major force in hip-hop.
DJ Quik’s ability to slickly incorporate funk, soul, jazz, and R&B elements into his music distinguished him from other rappers. His complex yet soothing beats are the ideal foundation for his witty words.
DJ Quik has worked with some of the biggest names in hip-hop throughout his three-decade career, including 2Pac, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Jay-Z. DJ Quick maintains high respect among true hip-hop enthusiasts despite not enjoying the same public success as other greats.
His distinctive style impacted many current musicians, including Kendrick Lamar. DJ Quik is one of hip-hop’s most talented rappers and producers.
21. King Tee
King Tee is a pioneer of West Coast gangsta rap. He used music to express his grievances and share experiences that connected him with his community while growing up in Compton amid gang violence and police brutality.
His 1988 debut album, Act a Fool, quickly became a classic, showcasing his poetic skill and capacity to craft captivating narratives through rhyme. His smash hit “Bass” established him as a significant player in the gangster rap game and became an anthem for lowrider culture.
King Tee has worked with legendary rappers, including Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, and Eazy-E.
Modern gangsta rappers that cite him as an inspiration, like Kendrick Lamar, continue to experience his influence.
Despite obstacles, including label disagreements and legal issues, King Tee is still regarded as a trailblazer whose contributions continue to influence modern hip-hop.
20. E-40
Earl Stevens, commonly known as E-40, is among the greatest gangsta rappers ever. The Bay Area legend has over three decades of professional experience and has recorded several timeless records. Rapper E-40 distinguished himself from other artists by his unique terminology, which he calls “Ebonics.”
He incorporates it into his music and helps make it popular among the hip-hop scene. Earl is a brilliant storyteller, thanks to his ability to develop words with multiple meanings.
Rapid-fire rhymes with clever wordplay and vivid imagery are a hallmark of his writing. He collaborated with well-known hip-hop artists, including Lil Jon, Tupac Shakur, and Snoop Dogg. E-40 is not only a skilled rapper but also an outstanding businessman.
He owns several companies, including his winery, Earl Stevens Selections, and the E-40 Sluricane malt whiskey brand.
Hip-hop culture cannot disregard E-40’s influence. His influence can be felt in areas such as fashion, entrepreneurship, and language, as well as in music.
19. B-Legit
Rapper B-Legit, real name Brandt Jones, hails from Vallejo, California. He was among the first musicians signed to E-40’s record company, Sick Wid It Records, and since the early 90s, he remains a significant figure in the West Coast hip-hop industry.
“Gangsta’s & Stripper’s,” a 1996 single featuring fellow Bay Area rappers Too $hort and Jazze Pha, was one of B-Legit’s biggest hits. The song received a lot of attention on urban radio stations nationwide, solidifying B-Legit as one of the top gangsta rappers currently active.
Growing up in Vallejo, B-Legit’s songs frequently represented his personal life. His lyrics were sincere and gritty and depicted realistic depictions of street life, from surviving violence to dealing with criminality.
B-Legit is best known for his work in music, but he has also been in many films, including The Breaks, Beef II, and Malibooty.
18. Public Enemy
Hip-hop legends Public Enemy rose to fame in the late 1980s. Professor Griff, DJ Terminator X, Chuck D, and Flavor Flav made up the group. They are easily one of the most prolific groups in the evolution of rap music.
The political activism of the Public Enemy was one of their distinguishing traits. They addressed problems including racism, poverty, police brutality, and political corruption in their lyrics.
They had a reputation for their aggressive demeanor and propensity to stand against authorities. Their project, It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back, is regarded as a gangsta rap classic for a good reason.
It included popular gangsta rap songs like “Don’t Believe the Hype” and “Bring the Noise.” Flavor Flav contributed significantly to Public Enemy’s popularity with his upbeat stage demeanor and entertaining interludes between songs.
Public Enemy was at the forefront in developing socially conscious hip-hop music and is now regarded as an essential catalyst.
17. Mac Dre
Mac Dre was from Vallejo, California. His distinctive style combines Hyphy movement and pimp culture. Mac Dre’s musical career began in the late 1980s when he joined the rap group “Ill-Mannered Posse.”
However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that he became well-known thanks to his solo debut album, Young Black Brotha. Creating the phrase “thizz” to describe ecstasy pills is one of Mac Dre’s most noteworthy contributions to hip-hop.
The term “Thizz” gained popularity in the Bay Area rap culture and gave rise to the Thizz Rap subgenre.
Unfortunately, Mac Dre’s life was cut short after his shot and murder in Kansas City, Missouri, while on tour at 34.
Despite this tragic event, West Coast hip hop continues to carry on his legacy. Mac Dre will always be regarded as a Bay Area rap pioneer who popularized a fresh sound and aesthetic that has influenced other musicians.
16. Too Short
Oakland, California native Too Short started in the early 1980s and became well-known for his vulgar lyrics and peculiar style. Funk music greatly impacted his sound, and he frequently used aspects of it in his tracks.
Too Short’s role in making the “pimp” character popular was one of his most important contributions to rap music. He frequently brought up women, s*x, money, and drugs in his songs, all of which are prevalent themes in pimp culture.
Nevertheless, Too Short has remained one of the most renowned rappers in the industry despite his polarizing reputation.
Too Short has put out over twenty albums and worked with many musicians, including DJ Quik and E-40. Numerous contemporary rappers have incorporated similar approaches into their music.
Too Short has also dabbled in acting. He made several cinematic appearances in the 1990s before reverting to full-time music production. He has been working in hip-hop for almost 40 years.
15. Kendrick Lamar
One of our most noteworthy and creative rappers, Kendrick Lamar, has become known for his experimental style and socially conscious lyrics. Lamar launched his career in 2004 using the stage name K-Dot after being born and raised in Compton, California.
After his mixtapes’ success, Lamar’s debut studio album, Section.80, was widely praised in 2011.
After that, he released Good Kid, M.A.A.D. City in 2012 brought him widespread success and established him as a significant figure in hip-hop. Lamar further cemented his reputation as a rapper who isn’t afraid to address complex topics through his music, such as race relations, poverty, and mental health, through his subsequent albums To Pimp a Butterfly and DAMN.
Lamar is a brilliant songwriter and producer on top of his work as a rapper. He worked with the biggest names in music and then some.
You would have a hard time overestimating his influence on hip-hop culture. The young legend keeps inspiring new generations of artists while preserving his distinctive voice and vision.
14. 21 Savage
Shayaa Bin Abraham-Joseph, better known as 21 Savage, made his rap debut in 2014 with the release of “The Slaughter Tape,” his first mixtape. He has since become one of his generation’s most popular yet divisive rappers. Themes of violence, drugs, and street life frequently appear in 21 Savage’s music.
Overall, his music stamped its harsh lyrics and ominous delivery. He doesn’t hold back while discussing the terrible reality of growing up in poverty. However, he is a complex artist who utilizes music to express himself and communicate his story, which hides beneath his stern appearance.
In recent years, he has been more forthcoming about his battles with mental health concerns and trauma from the past.
21 Savage has advanced in hip-hop despite having legal concerns early in his career related to immigration. He found success with songs like “Bank Account” and one of the most popular gangsta rap songs, “Red Opps,” he has no plans to slow down anytime soon.
Despite being a more modern rapper, and a British citizen, 21 Savage is on track to be considered among the best gangsta rappers ever.
13. NBA YoungBoy
Never broke again Youngboy, commonly known as NBA Youngboy, is a prominent figure in the current gangsta rap scene. His gritty lyrics and aggressive delivery showcase his struggles growing up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
With multiple chart-topping hits and a dedicated fan base, NBA Youngboy has solidified his position as one of the leading gangsta rappers thriving in the industry.
Widely regarded as the new Lil Wayne, Youngboy is spearheading the way for modern gangsta rappers to put their stamp on the subgenre.
12. Dr. Dre
One of the founders of N.W.A. and arguably the best gangsta rap group of all time, Dr. Dre is a legend in the hip-hop scene.
His iconic production skills and music-making speak for themselves in projects like The Chronic, Straight Outta Compton, and 2001.
He helped discover and develop many other gangsta rap legends, including Ice Cube, Eazy-E, Tupac, and Snoop Dogg.
11. Eazy-E
Eazy-E was a prolific yet under-appreciated icon in the early stages of rap. He was a hustler turned gangsta rapper, garnering an abundance of money and respect from the streets before giving the music a try.
In the late 1980s, Eazy used his resources to invest in what would later become one of the most iconic rap groups. N.W.A. consisted of hip-hop legends Eazy E, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, MC Ren, and Yella. Eazy was among the first rappers to be respected in the streets and chased by women.
Despite his massive success with the ladies, Eazy managed to mix business with pleasure in a fatal way. The legend became an undisputed hip-hop mogul before dying of AIDS-related pneumonia in 1995.
10. Ice-T
A legend in the early New York rap scene, Ice-T is arguably the “Godfather of Gangsta Rap.” His decorated career dates back to the 80s, and he has since produced numerous albums that have helped define the genre.
His debut album, Rhyme Pays, was released in 1987 and featured the groundbreaking track “6 in the Morning.” This song was one of the first authentic gangsta rap songs. It ended up paving the way for future artists in the movement.
Throughout his career, Ice-T has continued to push the boundaries of gangsta rap, exploring themes such as crime, violence, and social issues. His influence on the genre is undeniable.
9. MC Ren
The often underrated and overlooked member of N.W.A., MC Ren, carried his weight in the rap group as they made their way to the top.
The Compton native wrote his lyrics and some of Eazy E’s bars. With his angry and aggressive street tone, MC Ren helped N.W.A. go from a small-time group to a global phenomenon.
Though he’s not one of the more famous gangsta rappers, his greatness is undeniable.
8. Tupac Shakur
Despite his short rap career, Tupac Shakur had a legendary run. He had an interesting start as a backup dancer for Digital Underground. He then made history with Dr. Dre in the mid-90s. Tupac and Dr. Dre teamed up after Dre had a falling out with N.W.A., making legendary hits like “California Love.”
Pac left a lasting impact with his music about the “thug life” and the struggles of being a young black man in America. Tupac Shakur stylized as 2Pac, is arguably one of the most influential and revered rappers ever.
His powerful lyrics and charismatic persona made him an absolute monster in gangsta rap. 2Pac released numerous classic albums, including Me Against the World, All Eyez on Me, and the posthumous The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory.
His music often dealt with themes of violence, racism, and social issues, making him a true revolutionary. Tragically, 2Pac’s life came to an abrupt end in 1996. He was just approaching his prime when gunmen took his life in a drive-by shooting.
Despite his untimely death, his music and impact on the world of gangsta rap will never go away.
7. Notorious B.I.G.
Born Christopher Wallace, The Notorious B.I.G. was a prominent figure in East Coast hip-hop and a key player in the infamous East Coast-West Coast rivalry of the 1990s. Biggie’s smooth flow and ability to craft vivid stories through his lyrics made him stand out among his peers.
His debut album, Ready to Die, is considered one of the greatest all-time hip-hop albums. It features tracks such as “Juicy” and “Big Poppa,” some of the most famous gangsta rap songs ever.
Biggie Smalls would never shy away from the sad truths of life as a gangsta in New York City. Like 2Pac, Biggie’s life stopped abruptly after a ridiculous drive-by shooting in 1997.
Despite his short career, The Notorious B.I.G.’s impact on gangsta rap and hip-hop remains unparalleled.
6. The Geto Boys
The Geto Boys, consisting of Scarface, Willie D, and Bushwick Bill, were pioneers of the Southern gan rap sound in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Hailing from Houston, Texas, their raw and unapologetic storytelling about life in the inner city resonated with listeners and paved the way for future Southern rappers.
5. Master P
As one of the most influential gangsta rappers, New Orleans native Master P has cemented his legacy through his hard-hitting lyrics and entrepreneurial spirit.
Born Perc Robert Miller, Master P founded No Limit Records, which became synonymous with the Southern gangsta rap sound. With over 75 million records sold worldwide, Master P’s impact on the genre is incomparable.
Growing up in a rough neighborhood, Master P used his experiences on the streets to fuel his music, developing a gritty and authentic style that resonated with fans. Master P’s influence on gangsta rap is widespread, with his entrepreneurial spirit inspiring a new generation of rappers to take control of their careers.
He started by selling his mixtapes out of the trunk of his car. He soon noticed that he could make 10 times the profit when selling the tapes rather than using a label.
His relentless work ethic and business acumen have paved the way for independent labels to thrive in the industry.
4. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
The Cleveland-based hip-hop group Bone Thugs-Harmony brought a unique sound to the world of gangsta rap with its melodic flows and harmonies.
They quickly gained popularity in the mid-1990s with hits like “Thuggish Ruggish Bone” and “Crossroad.”
Their innovative style and ability to deliver aggressive and heartfelt lyrics have earned them a lasting legacy in gangsta rap.
3. Snoop Dogg
Of all the gangsta rappers in hip-hop, Snoop Dogg is easily one of the best artists on this list. His debut album, Do***ystyle, took the rap game by storm. Despite being released in 1993, D***ystyle is arguably the hottest debut rap album ever.
Snoop Dogg’s gangsta sound amplified with tough lyrics about the streets and getting women in his fly suits and permed hair.
What other gangsta rapper can switch it up with a perm and make music like “Sensual Seduction” and still have respect in the streets?
2. Ice Cube
One of the tip-top legends of the West Coast, Ice Cube was a dangerous gangsta rapper. He wasn’t necessarily dangerous physically; he was a significant threat because of his intellect.
He was one of the most brilliant gangsta rappers ever, with an acute sense of when to “keep it G” and when to be business savvy. His music spoke for itself, developing a loyal fanbase that grew larger with every subsequent album.
However, when the music wasn’t enough to garner his deserved respect, Cube wasn’t afraid to take matters into his own hands.
After Ice Cube left N.W.A., he released solo albums. His debut solo project, AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted, shattered expectations and became a staple of 90s rap.
When the label executives didn’t pay Ice Cube the money they promised him for the album, Cube took a bat into their offices and destroyed everything! Unlike some rappers, Cube’s gangsta isn’t just in his music.
1. 50 Cent
Queens native 50 Cent, born Curtis Jackson, is a rapper who thrived on his gritty lyrics and aggressive style. One of the most innovative, famous gangsta rappers, 50 Cent, was a monster in the streets and executive offices.
His 2003 debut album, Get Rich or Die Tryin’, first gained fame, which featured tracks such as “In da Club” and “21 Questions.” 50 Cent’s music often deals with themes of violence, crime, and personal struggle. This, among other things, made him a key figure in gangsta rap.
Despite numerous setbacks throughout his career, 50 Cent has continued to release successful albums. It remains a prominent figure in the music and television industries, with shows including The Power Universe and BMF.
This concludes the best, most famous, past, and modern gangsta rappers of all time! Their legendary gangsta rap songs are forever in the universe and our hearts. However, like every list, everyone is bound to have different opinions. Who deserved to make the list? Who doesn’t deserve to be in the same category as the goats on here? Should anyone be higher on the list? Who received way too much credit?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
