The Greatest Rappers Who Died Too Soon
Update: Dive into the best new hip hop with our list of 2020's top rap songs.
The Notorious B.I.G. once rapped, "I wonder if I died / Would tears come to her eyes / Forgive me for my disrespect / Forgive me for my lies." Biggie, we forgive you. Several famous rappers and hip-hop stars have unfortunately passed away. This list ranks the best of them. Some of these musicians were shot during an illegal activity, while others died of natural causes. Two famous rappers are suspected to have died in conjunction with the East/West rap rivalry of the 1990s.
Who is the best rapper who is already dead? Tupac Shakur tops our list. Tupac died on September 13, 1996 after being shot in Las Vegas. He was 25 years old. The Notorious B.I.G. died on March 9, 1997 after being murdered in a drive-by shooting in Los Angeles. Though many believe that his death was retaliation for the murder of Tupac, no arrests have been made in correlation with either murder.
Adam Yauch, aka, MCA of the Beastie Boys, died on May 4, 2012 after a three year battle with cancer. He was 47 years old. On August 25, 2001, Aaliyah was killed, along with eight others, when her flight to the Bahamas crashed shortly after takeoff. She was 22 years old.
Are you surprised that so many famous rappers have died? Take a look at this list and share your thoughts in the comments section.
- 1All Eyez on Me, Me Against the World, The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory
An icon in the world of hip-hop, this rapper's poetic lyrics and raw storytelling skills captivated audiences worldwide, addressing social issues and personal struggles with a unique blend of vulnerability and aggression. With an influential career spanning only five years before his untimely death, he left a lasting impact on the genre and sold over 75 million records globally. His profound influence can be felt today, as his work continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.
- 2Ready to Die, Life After Death, Born Again
A true lyrical genius, this East Coast rapper effortlessly combined intricate wordplay with vivid storytelling to create some of the most memorable verses in hip-hop history. Rising to fame in the mid-90s, he played a pivotal role in popularizing hardcore rap and helped put New York City back on the map as a major force in the genre. Despite his short-lived career due to a tragic death at the age of 24, his legacy endures as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Known for his emotionally charged music and versatile style that blended elements of hip-hop, punk rock, and R&B, this artist quickly gained a massive following despite facing numerous controversies throughout his career. His innovative approach to songwriting showcased raw vulnerability and introspection, setting him apart from many of his contemporaries. Sadly, he was killed at just 20 years old, but his influence on modern hip-hop remains significant.
- 4Eazy-Duz-It, It’s On (Dr. Dre) 187um Killa, Eternal E
As a founding member of the pioneering gangsta rap group N.W.A., this West Coast rapper played an instrumental role in shaping the sound and direction of hip-hop during its early years. With his distinctive voice and unapologetic lyrics about street life in Compton, he pushed boundaries while shedding light on important social issues. His untimely death due to complications from AIDS marked the end of an era, but his contributions to the genre will never be forgotten.
- 5
Nipsey Hussle
The Marathon Continues, The Marathon, You BrokeA relentless hustler and talented lyricist, this Los Angeles rapper was deeply committed to uplifting his community and promoting self-sufficiency within the hip-hop industry. His unique blend of West Coast gangsta rap and socially conscious themes resonated with fans across the globe, earning him a Grammy nomination in 2019. Tragically killed at the age of 33, his efforts to empower others and create positive change continue to inspire both artists and activists alike.
- 6Music & Me, Welcome To The Dogg House, G-Funk Classics
Renowned for his smooth, melodic voice and unmatched ability to craft unforgettable hooks, this West Coast singer/rapper played a key role in defining the G-funk sound of the 1990s. Collaborating with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, he left an indelible mark on the genre before passing away from complications related to multiple strokes at just 41 years old.
