10. Scarface
Only a handful MCs have managed to sustain their alignment with the streets regardless of success. 'Face is at the top of that list. His wistful ghetto tales and poetic raps are constant reminders that Brad Jordan is the voice of the hood.
Best Album: The Diary
9. Chuck D
Lyrical with a militant message and a take-no-prisoners mic persona, Chuck D remains an influential figure in the rap game today.
Best Album: It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back
8. Kool G Rap
The next time your favorite emcee commits a double-homicide on wax, blame it on the notorious Kool G Rap. Why? He's the grandfather of hardcore hip-hop, of course. Some of the grittiest street tales in rap grew out of G Rap's rhyme book.
Best Album: wanted: Dead or Alive (w/ DJ Polo)
7. 2Pac
The most influential of all time, 2Pac remains a transcendental MC that's often imitated but never duplicated.
Best Album: Me Against the World
6. Jay-Z
You wouldn't know it from the bevy of hustler-turned-trappers he's inspired, but Jay-Z is the paradigm of rags-to-riches street dreams. Peep his flawless flow and double entendres. That marketing plan was him.
Best Album: Reasonable Doubt
5. The Notorious B.I.G.
Though lacking any real social message, Biggie possessed enough pizzazz to sway audiences young and old. His effortless wit and unparalleled flow made him one of the greatest rappers of our time.
Best Album: Ready to Die
4. Nas
Some call him a street prophet for his poetic, conversational-style lyrics. An absolute master of lyrical extravaganza, Nas often paints vivid pictures of urban life in his rhymes.
Best Album: Illmatic
3. Big Daddy Kane
The King of Swagger, Kane entertained the rap world with his peculiar flair and flamboyant wardrobe. Latter peers like Jay-Z, Biggie, and Snoop would later adopt his player persona.
Best Album: Long Live the Kane
2. KRS-One
The Teacha transformed the violent brusque of street life into a story of uplift and self-awareness, starting with BDP's incendiary debut, Criminal Minded.
Best Album: By All Means Necessary (w/ Boogie Down Productions)
1. Rakim
While others bragged about their guns, Rakim celebrated his swagger. A smooth, laid-back flow, intense lyricism, and positivity were his stately hallmarks.
Best Album: Paid in Full (Eric B. & Rakim)
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