The Best East Coast Rappers of All Time
East Coast rap originated in New York City during the 70s and established the city (and the Bronx more specifically) as a cradle for musical innovation. Since then, East Coast hip hop has only become more popular and has expanded outside of New York to include Philadelphia, Washington D.C. and other outposts. The so-called Golden Age of Rap saw a resurgence in East Coast hip hop during the early 90s where some of the best East Coast rappers of all time take over rap both critically and commercially. East Coast hip hop spans multiple generations and with its roots at the genre's earliest days, is one of the most important subgenres of rap music.
That said, who are the best East Coast rappers? Any list of East Coast hip hop artists has to include the likes of Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, Jay Z, DMX, Busta Rhymes, Public Enemy, Gang Starr and Notorious B.I.G. These are widely recognized regarded as the best East Coast rappers and with good reason. Their slick rhymes, catchy beats and lyrics that range from party anthems to serious conscious rap. No matter whether you like East Coast rap or West Coast rap, the one thing you can't deny is the amount of respect than many in hip hop have for East Coast rappers.
So, it's up to you to determine who are the best East Coast rappers. This list answers the questions "who are the best East Coast hip hop bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest East Coast hip hop musician ever?"
If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the band's music instead of just voting for the most popular east coast hip hop bands that you might've heard of.
Hailed as one of the most influential rappers in history, this Brooklyn native's commanding presence and distinctive flow left an indelible mark on the hip-hop scene. With his uncanny ability to weave intricate stories through vivid imagery and clever wordplay, he quickly rose to prominence in the '90s. Tragically, his life was cut short at the height of his career, but his impact on pop culture and the rap genre remains unparalleled.
- 2
Rising from humble beginnings in Queensbridge, this lyrical genius has been consistently regarded as one of the greatest MCs of all time. His debut album is considered a masterpiece that set a new standard for storytelling in hip-hop, demonstrating his exceptional technical skills and unique perspective on life. Over two decades later, he continues to captivate audiences with his introspective lyrics and innovative style.
This groundbreaking collective from Staten Island not only revolutionized the sound of hip-hop but also introduced a powerful movement that resonated with fans across the globe. Known for their gritty, raw lyrics and innovative production techniques, they created a distinct sound that captured the essence of New York City's underground scene. Their influence on popular culture can still be seen today through music, fashion, and film.
As pioneers of hardcore rap during the golden age of hip-hop, this dynamic duo from Queensbridge delivered dark, menacing beats paired with brutally honest lyrics reflecting their harsh upbringing. Their chemistry as MCs was undeniable; they fed off each other's energy to create some of the most memorable tracks in rap history. Though they disbanded following the untimely death of one member, their legacy lives on through their timeless music.
This Queens native's meteoric rise to fame in the early 2000s was fueled by his relentless work ethic, catchy hooks, and aggressive lyrics. Despite multiple setbacks, including a near-fatal shooting, he persevered to become one of the most successful rappers in history. In addition to his chart-topping music, his savvy business ventures have solidified his status as a pop culture icon.
Hailing from Staten Island and Newark respectively, these two charismatic MCs first gained recognition as solo artists before joining forces to form one of the most dynamic duos in hip-hop history. Their chemistry on stage and in the studio is undeniable; their playful banter and razor-sharp lyricism have entertained fans for decades. Together, they've left an indelible mark on the rap scene with their infectious energy and unparalleled showmanship.
