Introduction

Best 90s Rappers: The 1990s was a golden era for hip-hop music, producing some of the most iconic and influential rappers of all time. These artists not only shaped the genre but also left an indelible mark on popular culture. In this article, we will delve into the lives, achievements, and timeless hits of the “10 Best 90s Rappers.” From East Coast to West Coast, from storytelling to gangsta rap, these artists captivated audiences with their lyrical prowess and unique styles. So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and celebrate the rap legends who made the 90s an unforgettable decade for hip-hop enthusiasts.

Contents

Introduction

Tupac Shakur (2Pac)

The Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls)

Frequently Asked Questions About 90s Rappers

Tupac Shakur (2Pac)

90s Rappers.

Starting our list with an absolute legend, Tupac Shakur, or 2Pac, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic rappers of the 90s. Born on June 16, 1971, in East Harlem, New York, Tupac’s impact on hip-hop and society as a whole is immeasurable. He was not just a rapper; he was a poet, an actor, and a social activist.

Achievements:

Tupac released multiple critically acclaimed albums in the 90s, including “All Eyez on Me” and “Me Against the World.”
He was a key figure in the East Coast-West Coast hip-hop rivalry, which garnered significant attention in the media.

Tupac was known for his powerful and thought-provoking lyrics, addressing issues like racism, poverty, and violence.
He had an impressive acting career, starring in films like “Juice” and “Poetic Justice.”

Best Songs:

“California Love” ft. Dr. Dre
“Dear Mama”
“Changes”

“Hit ‘Em Up”
“Hail Mary”

The Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls)

90s Rappers.

Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G. or Biggie Smalls, is often cited as one of the greatest rappers in history. Born on May 21, 1972, in Brooklyn, New York, Biggie’s smooth flow and storytelling ability set him apart from the rest.

Achievements:

Biggie’s debut album, “Ready to Die,” is considered a classic in the hip-hop genre.

He was a central figure in the East Coast hip-hop scene and engaged in a highly publicized feud with Tupac Shakur.
His posthumous album, “Life After Death,” was released just days after his untimely death and became a critical and commercial success.

Best Songs:

“Juicy”
“Big Poppa”
“Hypnotize”

“Mo Money Mo Problems”
“One More Chance”

Nas

90s Rappers.

Nasir Jones, known simply as Nas, emerged in the 90s as a lyrically gifted rapper from Queensbridge, New York. Born on September 14, 1973, Nas is often praised for his intricate rhyme schemes and socially conscious lyrics.

Achievements:

Nas’s debut album, “Illmatic,” is considered one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time.

He was a prominent figure in the hip-hop supergroup, The Firm.
Nas is known for addressing social issues and his ability to vividly depict the realities of life in New York’s housing projects.

Best Songs:

“N.Y. State of Mind”
“If I Ruled the World” ft. Lauryn Hill
“One Love”

“The World is Yours”
“Hate Me Now” ft. Puff Daddy

Jay-Z

90s Rappers.

Shawn Corey Carter, better known as Jay-Z, is not only one of the best 90s rappers but also one of the most successful and enduring artists in hip-hop history. Born on December 4, 1969, in Brooklyn, New York, Jay-Z’s impact on the genre is immeasurable.

Achievements:

Jay-Z’s debut album, “Reasonable Doubt,” is a classic in the hip-hop canon.

He is the founder of Roc-A-Fella Records and Roc Nation, two influential record labels.
Jay-Z’s ability to evolve with the times and consistently produce chart-topping hits is unparalleled.

Best Songs:

“Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)”
“99 Problems”
“Empire State of Mind” ft. Alicia Keys

“Big Pimpin'” ft. UGK
“Dirt Off Your Shoulder”

Dr. Dre

90s Rappers.

While Dr. Dre’s career spans several decades, his impact on 90s hip-hop cannot be overstated. Born on February 18, 1965, in Compton, California, Dre is not only a rapper but also a renowned producer and entrepreneur.

Achievements:

Dre’s album “The Chronic” is a cornerstone of West Coast hip-hop and introduced the world to Snoop Dogg.

He was instrumental in the establishment of Death Row Records and subsequently played a key role in the formation of Aftermath Entertainment.
Dre’s production skills have been instrumental in shaping the sound of hip-hop, working with artists like Eminem and 50 Cent.

Best Songs:

“Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” ft. Snoop Dogg
“Forgot About Dre” ft. Eminem
“Still D.R.E.” ft. Snoop Dogg

“California Love” ft. Tupac Shakur
“The Next Episode” ft. Snoop Dogg

Eminem

90s Rappers.

Marshall Mathers, known as Eminem or Slim Shady, rose to fame in the late 90s and became a global sensation. Born on October 17, 1972, in St. Joseph, Missouri, Eminem’s rapid-fire delivery and introspective lyrics set him apart.

Achievements:

Eminem’s album “The Slim Shady LP” marked his breakthrough in the late 90s.

He is one of the best-selling artists in the world, with numerous Grammy Awards to his name.
Eminem’s alter ego, Slim Shady, allowed him to explore darker themes and create controversial yet thought-provoking music.

Best Songs:

“Lose Yourself”
“Stan” ft. Dido
“Without Me”

“My Name Is”
“The Real Slim Shady”

Snoop Dogg

90s Rappers.

Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., better known as Snoop Dogg, burst onto the 90s hip-hop scene with his laid-back style and distinctive flow. Born on October 20, 1971, in Long Beach, California, Snoop Dogg became an instant West Coast icon.

Achievements:

Snoop’s debut album, “Doggystyle,” is a West Coast classic and one of the best-selling hip-hop albums ever.

He has collaborated with numerous artists across different genres, expanding his influence beyond hip-hop.
Snoop is also a successful actor and entrepreneur, known for his love of cannabis culture.

Best Songs:

“Gin and Juice”
“Drop It Like It’s Hot” ft. Pharrell Williams
“Beautiful” ft. Pharrell Williams

“What’s My Name?”
“Young, Wild & Free” ft. Wiz Khalifa and Bruno Mars

OutKast

90s Rappers.

Comprising André 3000 and Big Boi, OutKast brought a unique blend of Southern hip-hop and funk to the 90s rap scene. The duo’s innovative sound and eclectic style set them apart.

Achievements:

OutKast’s album “Aquemini” and “ATLiens” are considered landmarks in hip-hop.

They won the Grammy for Album of the Year in 2004 for “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below.”
The duo’s ability to seamlessly fuse genres and experiment with their sound has earned them a dedicated fanbase.

Best Songs:

“Ms. Jackson”
“Hey Ya!”
“Rosa Parks”

“Elevators (Me & You)”
“B.O.B. (Bombs Over Baghdad)”

Lauryn Hill

90s Rappers.

Lauryn Hill’s impact on the 90s hip-hop and R&B scene cannot be overstated. Born on May 26, 1975, in East Orange, New Jersey, Hill’s soulful voice and poignant lyrics resonated with listeners worldwide.

Achievements:

Lauryn Hill’s album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” is a masterpiece that defies genre boundaries.

She became the first woman to win five Grammy Awards in a single night.
Hill’s ability to seamlessly transition between rapping and singing set her apart as a versatile artist.

Best Songs:

“Doo Wop (That Thing)”
“Ex-Factor”
“Everything Is Everything”

“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”
“To Zion” ft. Carlos Santana

Ice Cube

90s Rappers.

O’Shea Jackson, known as Ice Cube, started his career with N.W.A but continued to make a significant impact as a solo artist in the 90s. Born on June 15, 1969, in Los Angeles, California, Ice Cube’s socially conscious lyrics and storytelling abilities made him a force to be reckoned with.

Achievements:

Ice Cube’s album “The Predator” is one of the best-selling rap albums of the 90s.

He successfully transitioned into acting, starring in movies like “Boyz n the Hood” and “Friday.”
Ice Cube’s politically charged lyrics and activism efforts contributed to discussions about racial inequality and social issues.

Best Songs:

“It Was a Good Day”
“Check Yo Self” ft. Das EFX
“You Know How We Do It”

“Today Was a Good Day”
“No Vaseline”

Conclusion

The 90s produced an array of remarkable rappers who left an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape. These artists not only dominated the charts but also used their platform to address societal issues and shape cultural conversations. From the East Coast to the West Coast, from conscious rap to gangsta rap, the diversity of styles and themes showcased the richness of the genre. The legacy of these 10 best 90s rappers continues to influence contemporary artists and remind us of a transformative era in music history.

Frequently Asked Questions About 90s Rappers

Who were the most famous 90s rappers? The 90s gave rise to several iconic rappers who left an indelible mark on the hip-hop scene. Some of the most famous ones include Tupac Shakur (2Pac), The Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls), Nas, Jay-Z, Dr. Dre, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, OutKast, Lauryn Hill, and Ice Cube.
What made 90s rappers stand out from other eras? 90s rappers stood out due to their innovative styles, storytelling abilities, and lyricism. They tackled a wide range of social and personal issues, making their music relatable and impactful. Additionally, the 90s saw the emergence of various sub-genres within hip-hop, contributing to the diversity of sounds during that era.
Why is Tupac considered an influential 90s rapper? Tupac Shakur, or 2Pac, is considered influential due to his socially conscious lyrics and his ability to merge poetry with hip-hop. He addressed issues like racism, poverty, and violence, using his music to spark discussions about societal injustices. His impact was further magnified by his acting career and his role in the East Coast-West Coast hip-hop rivalry.

What were the major achievements of The Notorious B.I.G.? The Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls, achieved immense success in the 90s. His debut album “Ready to Die” is considered a classic, and his posthumous album “Life After Death” was released just days after his tragic death. Biggie’s storytelling prowess, smooth flow, and contributions to the East Coast hip-hop scene solidified his status as a rap legend.
How did Dr. Dre contribute to 90s hip-hop? Dr. Dre played a pivotal role in shaping 90s hip-hop by producing iconic albums like “The Chronic.” His production skills introduced a new West Coast sound and helped launch the careers of artists like Snoop Dogg and Eminem. Dre’s influence extended beyond his own music as he founded record labels and collaborated with diverse talents.
What makes Lauryn Hill’s “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” significant? “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” is significant for its fusion of hip-hop and R&B, along with its deeply personal and introspective lyrics. Lauryn Hill’s ability to switch seamlessly between rapping and singing showcases her versatility. The album’s impact is evident in its critical acclaim and its exploration of themes related to love, identity, and womanhood.

How did Eminem’s style stand out among 90s rappers? Eminem’s style stood out due to his rapid-fire delivery, complex rhyme schemes, and candid storytelling. His alter ego, Slim Shady, allowed him to delve into darker and controversial themes while sparking important conversations about mental health and social issues. Eminem’s rise to fame marked a shift in the genre’s landscape.
What contributions did OutKast make to 90s hip-hop? OutKast, consisting of André 3000 and Big Boi, brought a fresh and eclectic Southern sound to 90s hip-hop. Their albums “Aquemini” and “ATLiens” showcased their genre-blurring approach, blending hip-hop with funk and other genres. Their innovative sound and experimentation paved the way for future artists to explore new musical horizons.
How did Ice Cube balance his music career and acting? Ice Cube is notable for successfully transitioning from his music career to acting. He starred in films like “Boyz n the Hood” and “Friday,” showcasing his versatility beyond the music realm. While maintaining his commitment to rap, Ice Cube’s ability to excel in both industries solidified his status as a multi-talented artist.

What is the lasting impact of 90s rappers on today’s hip-hop? The impact of 90s rappers is still evident in contemporary hip-hop. Many current artists cite them as major influences, adapting their styles and incorporating their messages into their own music. The themes of social awareness, personal struggles, and cultural commentary that characterized 90s rap continue to resonate with listeners today.