The Greatest White Rappers of All Time
Though it took a while for the music to catch on with them, some of the best rappers in hip hop history are white. While this may be hard to fathom or even accept for some, white rappers have not only been some of the most unappreciated or scoffed at in the game, but they frequently fly under the radar. These white rappers are getting the due they deserve, since after all, they are considered some of the best in history.
In the late 1980s, the Beastie Boys (Ad-Rock, MCA, and Mike D) were among the first white rappers to be accepted by the larger hip hop community. In addition to the groundbreaking Beastie Boys, in the late '90s, after years of mainstream white hip hop diluted the pool, Eminem became one of the most popular and respected MCs of his time. With provocative and controversial lyrics, along with association with legendary producer Dr. Dre, Slim Shady catapulted to the top of both the album charts and became at one point one of the best rappers in the game, impressively releasing his 10th studio album in 2018.
More recently, Macklemore has become one of the most popular rappers on the planet, not to mention one of the best new white rappers. His socially conscious lyrics combined with the slick production of Ryan Lewis have combined two elements of hip hop to create one of the catchiest, and most acclaimed sounds in recent memory. While there are still some people who can't stand his brand of rap, Macklemore is easily one of the most famous white rappers of all time. Who is your favorite young white rapper? Who are the best upcoming white rappers are the best in American rap music, and which underground names stand out internationally? Who are the top 10 white rappers?
This is the Ultimate List of the greatest white rappers of all time. If you notice someone is missing, feel free to add him or her. Vote on who you consider to be the best white hip hop artist of all time.
- 1The Marshall Mathers LP, The Slim Shady LP, The Eminem Show
- Genres (Music): Hip hop
Hailing from Detroit, this legendary artist has been dominating the rap scene since his debut in 1999, with unmatched lyrical prowess and storytelling ability that allows him to captivate audiences worldwide. His intricate rhyme schemes, rapid-fire delivery, and willingness to tackle controversial subjects have solidified his status as one of the greatest rappers of all time, earning him numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. Despite facing significant adversity due to his race early on, he's broken down barriers within hip-hop and influenced countless artists across various genres.
This genre-defying artist first gained major recognition in 2015 with a unique fusion of hip-hop, pop, and rock elements that quickly catapulted him into superstardom. Known for his catchy melodies and introspective lyrics, he's amassed an enormous fanbase through chart-topping hits and electrifying live performances. While not strictly a rapper, his undeniable talent and contributions to the hip-hop community have earned him a place among the greats.
- 3
With deeply personal lyrics and raw emotion, this Michigan-bred rapper has built a dedicated following by exploring themes such as mental health struggles and the complexities of relationships. His powerful delivery is backed by cinematic production that amplifies the emotional impact of each song. As both a skilled lyricist and captivating performer, he continues to redefine what it means to be a successful rapper in today's industry.
- 4Watching Movies with the Sound Off, Macadelic, In the Air
- Genres (Music): Hip hop music, Alternative hip hop, Pop music, Electro hop
Gone too soon but never forgotten, this Pittsburgh native left an indelible mark on the rap scene with his versatile style that ranged from introspective storytelling to feel-good party anthems. He consistently pushed creative boundaries throughout his career by experimenting with different sounds and collaborating with artists across various genres. Despite battling personal demons, he was beloved by fans for his authenticity and vulnerability in sharing his struggles through music.
With a background in comedy, this Pennsylvania rapper has carved a unique niche for himself by blending humor and wit with undeniable technical skill. He first gained widespread attention through viral music videos that showcased his clever wordplay and impressive flow, quickly proving he's more than just a comedic novelty act. By embracing his unconventional approach, he's challenged preconceived notions of what a rapper can be while still earning respect within the hip-hop community.
- 6Big, These Things Happen, The Endless Summer
- Genres (Music): Hip hop music
This Bay Area native has made a name for himself with his smooth delivery and effortless swagger, consistently delivering hit songs that resonate with fans across the globe. His introspective lyrics often delve into themes of fame and success, painting a vivid picture of the highs and lows that come with life in the spotlight. With numerous chart-topping projects under his belt, he's solidified his status as one of rap's most influential artists.
