Did you know that Dr. Dre was once a rapper too? Or that Tupac was around during the 2000s? Or that Eminem is still famous to this day? Find out all the info you could ever want about these and other great rappers who made waves in the last decade with this list of 25 best rappers of the 2000s.
1. Nelly
| Nelly | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cornell Iral Haynes Jr. |
| Stage Name | Nelly |
| Birthdate | November 2, 1974 |
| Birthplace | Austin, Texas, U.S. |
| Origin | St. Louis, Missouri, U.S. |
| Education | University City High School |
| Occupations | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Actor, Entrepreneur |
| Years Active | 1993–present |
| Partner | Ashanti (2003–2014, 2023–present) |
| Children | 4 (2 biological, 2 adopted) |
| Family | City Spud (half-brother), Yomi Martin (cousin) |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Labels | Derrty, Universal Motown, Universal Records, Republic, Columbia, RECORDS |
| Member of | Ocean’s 7, St. Lunatics |
| Awards | Three Grammy Awards, Nine Billboard Music Awards |
| Best-Selling Album | “Country Grammar” (8.4 million copies sold in the U.S.) |
| Popular Hits | “Hot in Herre,” “Dilemma” (featuring Kelly Rowland), “Ride wit Me,” “Air Force Ones” (featuring Murphy Lee and St. Lunatics), “Just a Dream,” “Grillz” |
| Film Appearance | The Longest Yard (2005) |
| Clothing Lines | Vokal, Apple Bottoms |
| Album Sales | Over 21 million albums sold in the United States |
| Ranked | Fourth-best-selling rap artist in American music history by RIAA (2014) |
| Billboard Recognition | Number three Top Artist of the Decade (2000s) |
Nelly, whose real name is Cornell Iral Haynes Jr., was born in 1974. He is an American rapper, musician, businessman, and actor. Currently, he resides in Los Angeles, California. His musical career began in 1993 with the hip-hop group St. Lunatics, and in 1999, he signed with Universal Records. In 2000, Nelly launched his solo career under Universal with the release of Country Grammar, the album’s lead song “Ride wit Me,” a top 10 success, and the album’s featured title track.
Nelly, one of the most successful rappers of the 2000s, hails from St. Louis, Missouri. To explore more about talented rappers from different regions, check out the Top 20 Famous Rappers From Texas.
2. Beanie Sigel
| Beanie Sigel | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Beanie Sigel |
| Birth Name | Dwight Equan Grant |
| Born | March 6, 1974 |
| Birthplace | South Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper |
| Years Active | 1995–present |
| Labels | Roc-A-Fella, Def Jam, Dame Dash Music Group, Ruffhouse, EMI |
| Debut Album | “The Truth” (2000) |
| Commercial Success | Critical and commercial success with debut album |
| Legal Issues | Acquitted in trial for attempted murder |
| Collaborations | Worked with Jay-Z, Cam’ron, Scarface, 50 Cent |
| Acting Career | Appeared in films “State Property” and “Paper Soldiers” |
| Reunion with Jay-Z | Reunited and performed together at Tidal B-Sides Concert |
| Feuds | Engaged in conflicts with artists from the Ruff Ryders |
| Religious Affiliation | Sunni Muslim |
| Legal Troubles | Arrests and convictions for weapons charges, assault, drug possession, tax evasion |
| Recent Shooting Incident | Survived a drive-by shooting |
Dwight Equal Grant, a rapper from South Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, better known by his stage name Beanie Sigel, was born in 1974. In February 2000, he released his debut studio album, The Truth, on Roc-A-Fella Records, with critical acclaim and commercial success. This is how he first came to be recognized.
3. 50 Cent
| 50 Cent | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Curtis James Jackson III |
| Birthdate | July 6, 1975 |
| Birthplace | South Jamaica, Queens, New York City, U.S. |
| Occupations | Rapper, actor, television producer, businessman |
| Years Active | 2000-present |
| Organization | G-Unity Foundation |
| Notable Works | Albums: “Get Rich or Die Tryin'” (2003), “The Massacre” (2005) |
| Musical Career | Genre: Hip hop |
| Labels | Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment, Interscope Records, G-Unit Records |
| Awards | Grammy Award, Primetime Emmy Award, Billboard Music Awards, World Music Awards |
| Filmography | “Get Rich or Die Tryin'” (2005), “Home of the Brave” (2006), “Righteous Kill” (2008) |
| Billboard Rankings | Ranked 6th best artist of the 2000s, 17th best rapper of all time (2023) |
| Early Life | Raised by grandparents after the death of his mother |
| Personal Struggles | Survived a shooting incident, dealt with legal issues |
In 1975, Curtis James Jackson III, also known as 50 Cent, was born. He is an American rapper, businessman, and actor. He is a well-known figure in the hip-hop scene and has been dubbed a “master of the delicate art of lyrical brevity” Jackson, raised in Queens’ South Jamaica community, started dealing narcotics at 12 during the 1980s crack epidemic.
If you want to know about the best old school hip hop rappers, head over to Hood MWR’s Top 21 Best Old School Hip Hop Rappers. The article covers legendary rap icons like Run DMC, LL Cool J, and Public Enemy, and their contributions to the hip hop scene in the 80s and 90s.
4. Jay-Z
| Jay Z | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jay-Z |
| Birthdate | December 4, 1969 |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York City, U.S. |
| Other Names | The Carter Administration, Jigga, Hova, El Presidente, HOV |
| Occupations | Rapper, record producer, entrepreneur |
| Years Active | 1986–present |
| Spouse | Beyoncé (m. 2008) |
| Children | 3, including Blue Ivy |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Labels | Roc Nation, Atlantic, Def Jam, Roc-A-Fella, and more |
| Notable Achievements | Grammy Awards, Songwriters Hall of Fame, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame |
| Popular Albums | Reasonable Doubt, The Blueprint, 4:44, Watch the Throne, and more |
| Net Worth | US$2.5 billion (as of 2023) |
American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and creator of the Manhattan-based multinational talent and entertainment agency Roc Nation, Shawn Corey Carter, better known by his stage name Jay-Z, was born in 1969. one of the most significant hip-hop artists, in the opinion of many. He served as the C.E.O. of Def Jam Recordings and was crucial to musicians’ artistic and financial success, including J. Cole, Rihanna, and Kanye West.
5. Cameron
| Cameron | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cameron Ezike Giles |
| Also known as | Killa Cam |
| Born | February 4, 1976 |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, East Coast hip hop, gangsta rap |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, songwriter, record producer, actor, entrepreneur |
| Years Active | 1993–present |
| Labels | Killa, Cinematic, Diplomat, Virgin, E1, Asylum, Roc-A-Fella, Def Jam, Epic, Untertainment, Sony |
| Member of | The Diplomats, Children of the Corn, U.N. |
| Notable Singles | “Oh Boy”, “Hey Ma”, “Dipset Anthem”, “Killa Cam”, “Welcome to New York City”, “Get ‘Em Girls” |
| Studio Albums | Confessions of Fire, S.D.E., Come Home with Me, Purple Haze, Killa Season, Crime Pays, Purple Haze 2 |
| Acting Career | Paper Soldiers, Paid in Full, Killa Season |
| Achievements | Platinum and gold albums, Billboard chart success |
| Business Ventures | Entrepreneurship, record executive |
| Cultural Influence | Impact on East Coast hip hop, fashion trends |
Born in Harlem, New York City, in 1976, Cameron Ezike Giles is an American rapper, record executive, and actor better known by his stage name Cameron. Giles began his career as Killa Cam in the mid-1990s. In 1998 and 2000, he released his first two studio albums, Confessions of Fire and S.D.E. (Sports Drugs & Entertainment), the former of which was awarded gold status by the R.I.A.A. Giles then signed to Lance “Un” Rivera’s Entertainment through Epic.
If you’re a fan of male redheads, you might be interested in checking out Hood MWR’s interesting list of 20 Most Handsome Male Redheads Ever. This list of famous ginger men includes actors, musicians, and athletes who have taken the world by storm with their talent and good looks.
6. Nas
| Nas | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nas |
| Birthdate | September 14, 1973 (age 49) |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Other Names | Classic, God’s Son, Nas Escobar, Nasty Nas, Scarlett |
| Occupations | Rapper, songwriter, record executive, actor |
| Years Active | 1991–present |
| Works | Discography, filmography |
| Television | The Get Down |
| Spouse | Kelis (m. 2005; div. 2010) |
| Children | 2 |
| Parent | Olu Dara (father) |
| Relatives | Jungle (brother), Yara Shahidi (cousin), Sayeed Shahidi (cousin) |
| Musical Career | Rooted in East Coast hip hop |
| Genres | Hip hop, East Coast hip hop, jazz rap, conscious rap |
| Labels | Mass Appeal, Def Jam, Ill Will, Ruffhouse, Sony Urban, Columbia, The Orchard |
| Formerly of | The Firm |
| Greatest Rapper | Regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time |
| Debut Album | Illmatic (1994) – Considered one of the greatest hip hop albums of all time |
| Critical Restoration | Restored critical standing with albums Stillmatic, God’s Son, Street’s Disciple |
| Grammy Awards | Won Best Rap Album at the Grammy Awards for King’s Disease (2020) |
| Entrepreneurship | Co-founder of Mass Appeal Records, entrepreneur through his own record label |
| Studio Albums | Released fifteen studio albums since 1994, with numerous certifications |
Born in 1973, Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones is best known by his stage name, Nas. He is a rapper who is American. He is recognized as one of the best rappers of all time and is a product of East Coast hip-hop. Jones, a jazz musician and the son of Olu Dara, began his musical career in 1989 when he made recordings for Large Professor under the alias “Nasty Nas.” Later, he appeared on Main Source’s 1991 hit “Live at the Barbeque.”
7. Fat Joe
| Fat Joe | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Fat Joe |
| Birth Name | Joseph Antonio Cartagena |
| Also Known As | Fat Joe da Gangsta |
| Birthdate | August 19, 1970 (age 52) |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, songwriter, actor, record executive, record producer |
| Years Active | 1992–present |
| Labels | EMPIRE, R.N.G., R4 So Valid, Be Music, E1, Mr. 305 Inc., Warner Bros., Imperial, Terror Squad, Virgin, Atlantic, Big Beat, Mystic, Violator, Relativity |
| Formerly of | D.I.T.C., Terror Squad |
| Children | 3 |
| Debut Solo Album | “Represent” |
| Most Successful Album | “Jealous Ones Still Envy (J.O.S.E.)” |
| Notable Songs | “Lean Back,” “What’s Luv?,” “Make It Rain,” “All the Way Up” |
| Film Appearances | Scary Movie 3, Happy Feet, She’s Gotta Have It |
| Podcast | Coca Vision (hosted on Tidal) |
| Latest Album | “Family Ties” |
Joseph Antonio Cartagena was born in 1970, better known by his stage name Fat Joe, & is a New York City-based American rapper. As a member of the hip-hop ensemble Diggin’ in the Crates Crew, he began his musical career (D.I.T.C. ). Later, he went solo and established his record label, Terror Squad, where he signed artists like Big Pun, Remy Ma, Tony Sunshine, Cuban Link, Armageddon, Prospect, Triple Seis, and the then-unknown DJ Khaled. He also discovered producers Cool & Dre through this label.
If you’re a Fat Joe fan, you might be interested in checking out these lists of famous fat celebrities and famous fat actors of all time on Hood MWR.
8. Lil’ Wayne
| Lil Wayne | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dwayne Michael Carter Jr. |
| Born | September 27, 1982 (age 40) |
| Birthplace | New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Other Names | Weezy, Weezy F. Baby, Tunechi, President Carter |
| Education | University of Phoenix |
| Occupations | Rapper, singer, songwriter, record executive, entrepreneur |
| Years Active | 1997–present |
| Title | Founder of Young Money Entertainment |
| Spouse | Toya Johnson |
| Partners | Nivea, Lauren London, La’Tecia Thomas, Denise Bidot |
| Children | 4 |
| Origin | New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Labels | Universal, Young Money, Republic, Cash Money |
| Member of | Hot Boys |
| Formerly of | Cash Money Millionaires, The B.G.’z, Sqad Up |
Lil Wayne is the stage name for Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record executive. He was born in 1982. He is the middle way one of the best emcees and is thought to be among the most important hip-hop musicians. His career began in 1995 when, at the age of 12, rapper Birdman signed him to Cash Money Records, becoming him the label’s youngest artist.
9. D.M.X.
| D M X | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | D.M.X. |
| Birthdate | December 18, 1970 |
| Birthplace | Mount Vernon, New York, U.S. |
| Other Names | Dark Man X, X |
| Occupations | Rapper, songwriter, actor |
| Years Active | 1985–2021 |
| Spouse | Tashera Simmons (m. 1999; div. 2014) |
| Partner | Desiree Lindstrom (2016–2021) |
| Children | 17 |
| Origin | Yonkers, New York, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, East coast hip hop, gangsta rap, |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals |
| Labels | Def Jam, Ruff Ryders, Columbia, Bloodline, |
| Formerly of | Murder Inc., Ruff Ryders |
| Notable Achievements | – Debut album: “It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot” |
| Filmography | Belly, Romeo Must Die, Exit Wounds, |
| Television | DMX: Soul of a Man (reality TV series) |
| Literary Work | “E.A.R.L.: The Autobiography of DMX” |
| Childhood Challenges | Overcame a turbulent childhood, poverty, and abuse |
| Major Albums | – “It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot” |
| Notable Singles | – “Party Up (Up in Here)” |
D.M.X., Earl Simmons’ well-known stage moniker (short for “Dark Man X”), was an American rapper and actor who lived from 1970 until he died in 2021. Early in the 1990s, he started rapping, and in 1998, to both critical acclaim and financial success, he released his debut album, It’s Dark, and Hell Is Hot, which went on to sell 251,000 copies in its first week. In 1999, D.M.X. put out his best-selling album,… And Then There Was X, which had the number-one song “Party Up (Up in Here)”.
If you’re a fan of D.M.X, don’t forget to check out our list of the dopest rappers of the 90s. This list covers some of the most influential and groundbreaking artists from the golden age of hip hop, a time when rap music was truly coming into its own. You’ll find plenty of other talented rappers to explore from this era, including some who may have inspired D.M.X’s own style.
10. Eminem
| Eminem | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marshall Bruce Mathers III |
| Stage Name | Eminem |
| Born | October 17, 1972 |
| Birthplace | St. Joseph, Missouri, U.S. |
| Other Names | Slim Shady |
| Occupations | Rapper, songwriter, record producer |
| Years Active | 1988–present |
| Works | Albums, singles, production, videography |
| Spouses | Kimberly Anne Scott |
| Children | 3 (one biological; two adopted) |
| Awards | Grammy Awards, Academy Award, Billboard Music Awards, MTV Europe Music Global Icon Award |
| Origin | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Labels | Shady, Aftermath, Interscope |
| Member of | Bad Meets Evil, D12, Outsidaz |
| Film Career | Debut in “8 Mile” (2002), Oscar-winning song “Lose Yourself” |
| Ventures | Shady Records, Shade 45 (Sirius XM Radio channel) |
| Sales | Estimated worldwide sales of over 220 million records |
| Accolades | Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee |
| Ancestry | Scottish, Welsh, English, Cherokee, German, Swiss, Polish, and possibly Luxembourgish |
| Early Life | Raised by his mother in poverty, faced adversity and bullying |
| Musical Influences | Nas, Esham, AZ |
Marshall Bruce Mathers III, better known as Eminem, was born in 1972. He is a record producer and rapper from America. He is hailed by critics as one of the best rappers of all time and is credited with introducing hip-hop to middle America. The acceptability of white rappers in mainstream music is often credited to Eminem’s widespread popularity and renowned works, which broke down racial barriers.
11. Ludacris
| Ludacris | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ludacris |
| Birthdate | September 11, 1977 |
| Birthplace | Champaign, Illinois, U.S. |
| Other Names | Chris Lova Lova, Luda, Velvet Jones, Bronze Bridges |
| Citizenship | United States, Gabon |
| Occupations | Rapper, actor, songwriter, record executive |
| Years Active | 1998–present |
| Spouse | Eudoxie Mbouguiengue (m. 2014) |
| Children | 4 |
| Relatives | Richard Pryor (cousin), Monica (cousin) |
| Awards | Grammy Awards, Screen Actors Guild Award, Critic’s Choice Award, MTV Video Music Award |
| Origin | Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Labels | Disturbing tha Peace, Def Jam, Universal |
| Notable Albums | Incognegro, Back for the First Time, Word of Mouf, Chicken-n-Beer, The Red Light District, Release Therapy, Theater of the Mind, Battle of the Sexes |
| Notable Singles | “Southern Hospitality,” “What’s Your Fantasy,” “Stand Up,” “Money Maker,” “Yeah!,” “Glamorous,” “Break Your Heart,” “Baby” |
| Acting Career | Fast and Furious film series, Crash, Gamer, New Year’s Eve |
| Education | Banneker High School, Georgia State University (music management) |
| Ethnicity | African American, English, Native American ancestry |
| Early Life | Moved to Atlanta at age nine, started rapping and joined a rap group at age twelve |
| Radio Career | Worked as a DJ at Atlanta’s Hot 97.5 as “Chris Lova Lova” |
| Notable Awards | Grammy Awards, Screen Actors Guild Award, Critic’s Choice Award, MTV Video Music Award |
| Other Ventures | Creator and voice actor for the children’s musical television series Karma’s World, private pilot |
| Notable Achievements | Credited as one of the first Dirty South rappers to achieve mainstream success in the 21st century, multiple Grammy Awards and other accolades |
Ludacris, whose real name is Christopher Brian Bridges, was born in 1977. He is an American record executive, actor, and rapper. Ludacris, born in Champaign, Illinois, relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, at nine, when he started rapping for the first time. He established his own record company, Disturbing the Peace, in the late 1990s, and after becoming and emerging as one of the first rappers from the Dirty South to find global success with a slew of album releases, he signed with Def Jam South.
If you’re a fan of Ludacris’ unique style, you might also be interested in our list of the Top 15 Best Rappers with Dreadlocks. This article explores the artists who have embraced the iconic hairstyle and made it their signature look.
12. Ice Cube
| Ice Cube | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ice Cube |
| Birthdate | June 15, 1969 |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Occupations | Rapper, songwriter, actor, filmmaker |
| Years Active | 1986-present |
| Organization(s) | Cube Vision, Lench Mob Records |
| Spouse | Kimberly Woodruff |
| Children | 4, including O’Shea Jr. |
| Relatives | Del tha Funky Homosapien (cousin), Kam (cousin) |
| Genres | Hip hop, gangsta rap, political hip hop |
| Labels | Interscope, Lench Mob, Priority, EMI |
| Notable Achievements | Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of N.W.A |
| Musical Artist | Ice Cube |
O’Shea Jackson Sr., also known as Ice Cube, was born in 1969. The rapper, actor, and director are American. His political rap solo albums AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted (1990), Death Certificate (1991), and The Predator (1992) were well received both critically and financially. His lyrics on N.W.A.’s 1988 album Straight Outta Compton helped to expand the popularity of gangsta rap.
13. Missy Elliott
| Missy Elliott | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Missy Elliott |
| Born | July 1, 1971 |
| Birthplace | Portsmouth, Virginia, U.S. |
| Other Names | Misdemeanor |
| Occupations | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer |
| Years Active | 1991–present |
| Genres | Hip Hop, R&B, Progressive Rap |
| Labels | The Goldmind Inc., East West, Elektra, Atlantic |
| Musical Career | – Debuted with R&B girl group Sista |
| Accolades | – Referred to as the “Queen of Rap” |
| Personal Life | – Experienced hardships and overcame domestic abuse and molestation |
| Early Career | – Formed R&B group Fayze (later renamed Sista) |
In 1971, Melissa Arnette Elliott was born. She is a rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer from the United States. She began her musical career early to mid-1990s with the R&B female combo Sista. Later, she joined the Swing Mob collective with Timbaland, a childhood friend, and longstanding business partner, and they collaborated on songs for American R&B artists Aaliyah, 702, Total, and S.W.V.
If you are a fan of Missy Elliott, you will definitely appreciate Hood MWR’s article on the Top 60 Most Popular Black Female Rappers. Check it out to discover more amazing female rappers in the industry.
14. Busta Rhymes
| Busta Rhymes | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Busta Rhymes |
| Birthdate | May 20, 1972 |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York City, U.S. |
| Other Names | Trevor Taheim Smith |
| Education | Uniondale High School |
| Occupations | Rapper, Songwriter, Record Producer, Actor |
| Years Active | 1986–present |
| Children | 6 |
| Relatives | Cousin: Rampage |
| Awards | 12 Grammy Award nominations |
| Musical Career | – Original member of Leaders of the New School |
| Notable Songs | – “Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check” |
| Labels | Empire, Conglomerate, Epic, Violator, Republic, Cash Money, Young Money, Universal Motown, Interscope, Aftermath, J, Elektra |
| Ventures | – Founder of record label Conglomerate (formerly Flipmode Entertainment) |
| Recognitions | – Included in About.com’s list of the 50 Greatest MCs of Our Time |
| Personal Background | – Jamaican heritage |
United States-based rapper and actor Trevor George Smith Jr., better known by his stage name Busta Rhymes, was born in 1972. After wide receiver George “Buster” Rhymes of the N.F.L. and C.F.L., Chuck D of Public Enemy gave him the name Busta Rhymes. He is one of the most nominated musicians without winning a Grammy after receiving 12 nominations for his work.
15. Redman
| Redman | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Redman |
| Birth Name | Reginald Noble |
| Also Known As | Doc, Reggie, Funk Doc, Funk Doctor Spock |
| Born | April 17, 1970 (age 53) |
| Birthplace | Newark, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, DJ, record producer, actor |
| Years Active | 1989–present |
| Labels | Gilla House, Chaos, Def Jam |
| Member of | Method Man & Redman |
| Formerly of | Def Squad |
| Collaborations | Notable collaborations with Method Man, Def Squad |
| Rise to Fame | Rose to fame as an artist on the Def Jam label |
| Notable Works | How High (film), Method and Red sitcom |
| Education | Attended West Side High School |
| Career Highlights | Successful collaborations and independent releases |
| Film Appearances | Appeared in How High and Seed of Chucky |
| Video Game Appearances | Featured in the Def Jam series and tag team partnerships |
| Television Show | Starred in Method & Red sitcom |
| Notable Features | Featured on Christina Aguilera’s “Dirrty” |
| Production Work | Produced for himself, crew members, Shaquille O’Neal |
| Upcoming Projects | Working on Muddy Waters 2 album and Blackout! 3 |
Redman, a stage name used by American rapper, DJ, record producer, and actor Reginald Noble, was born in 1970. He became well-known in the early 1990s as a Def Jam label artist. He is best recognized for his work as one-half of the rap combo Method Man & Redman, including their leading roles in movies and comedy. Method Man is a close buddy of his. In the late 1990s, he was also a part of the Def Squad.
16. Method Man
| Method Man | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Method Man |
| Birth Name | Clifford Smith, Jr. |
| Also Known As | Johnny Blaze, Tical, Shakwon, Shotgun |
| Birthdate | March 2, 1971 |
| Birthplace | Park Hill, Staten Island |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Occupations | Rapper, record producer, actor |
| Years Active | 1992–present |
| Labels | Def Jam, Tommy Boy, RBC |
| Member of | Wu-Tang Clan, Method Man & Redman |
| Grammy Award | Won Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for “I’ll Be There for You/You’re All I Need to Get By” featuring Mary J. Blige |
| Film Appearances | 187, Belly, How High, Garden State, The Wackness, Venom, Red Tails, Keanu, The Cobbler, and more |
| Television Appearances | Method & Red, Oz, The Wire, The Deuce, The Last O.G., and more |
| Solo Albums | Tical, Tical 2000: Judgement Day, Tical 0: The Prequel, 4:21: The Day After, and more |
| Collaborations | Hit ’em High (Space Jam soundtrack), Blackout! (with Redman), and more |
Method Man, a stage name used by American rapper, composer, record producer, and actor Clifford Smith, Jr., was born in 1971. He is well-known for being a Wu-Tang Clan member, an East Coast hip-hop group. He is also a member of the hip-hop group Redman & Method Man. His stage moniker comes from the 1979 movie Method Man.
17. Twista
| Twista | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Twista |
| Birth Name | Carl Terrell Mitchell |
| Also known as | Tung Twista |
| Date of Birth | November 27, 1973 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, chopper |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, songwriter, record producer |
| Years Active | 1989–present |
| Labels | Get Money Gang, Capitol, EMI, Big Beat, Atlantic, Loud, Zoo, BMG |
| Notable Achievements | Guinness World Record for fastest rapper |
| Breakthrough Single | Featured on Do or Die’s hit single “Po Pimp” |
| Major Record Deals | Signed with Big Beat and Atlantic Records |
| Chart-Topping Album | “Kamikaze” reached #1 on the U.S. Billboard 200 |
| Collaborations | Worked with Kanye West, Jamie Foxx, Mariah Carey, and more |
| Documentary Film | Featured in the documentary “Mr. Immortality: The Life and Times of Twista” |
| Philanthropy | Collaborated with Chicago Food Bank’s Producemobile program |
| Recent Activity | Released the mixtape “Summer 96” in 2019 and served as a judge on “Rhythm + Flow” |
American rapper and record producer Carl Terrell Mitchell, best known by his stage name Twista (formerly Tung Twista), was born in 1973. He is well known for his chopper style of rapping and at once held the Guinness World Record for the quickest English-speaking rapper in 1992 after pronouncing 598 words in 55 seconds.
If you’re a fan of Twista’s rapid-fire delivery, you might also enjoy learning about other top rappers from Chicago. With a dynamic music scene and a long history of producing talented artists, Chicago has been a major player in the rap game for years. Discover more about the Windy City’s hip hop legends with our comprehensive list.
18. Xzibit
| Xzibit | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Xzibit |
| Birth Name | Alvin Nathaniel Joiner |
| Date of Birth | September 18, 1974 |
| Age | 48 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | Rapper, Actor, TV Presenter, Radio Personality |
| Genres | Hip Hop |
| Education | Cibola High School |
| Debut Album | “At the Speed of Life” |
| Notable Singles | “Paparazzi”, “What U See Is What U Get”, “X” |
| Notable Albums | “Restless”, “Man vs. Machine” |
| Labels | Loud Records, Open Bar, Sony BMG, RCA, Epic |
| Notable Group | Serial Killers |
| Notable TV Shows | “Pimp My Ride”, “Empire” |
| Notable Films | “Gridiron Gang”, “The X-Files: I Want to Believe” |
Alvin Nathaniel Joiner, best known by his stage as Xzibit, was born in 1974. He is a rapper, actor, T.V. host, and radio host from the United States. Following the 1996 publication of his first studio album, At the Speed of Life, Xzibit launched his musical career. The album had critical and financial success, reaching its Billboard 200 high at position 74.
19. Rick Ross
| Rick Ross | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rick Ross |
| Birthdate | January 28, 1976 (age 47) |
| Birthplace | Clarksdale, Mississippi, U.S. |
| Other Names | Rozay, The Boss, Renzel, Teflon Da Don |
| Occupations | Rapper, record executive, songwriter |
| Years Active | 2000–present |
| Children | 4 |
| Origin | Miami Gardens, Florida, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Labels | Epic, Maybach Music, Def Jam, Suave House, Atlantic |
| Member of | Triple C’s |
| Debut Single | “Hustlin'” |
| Notable Albums | “Port of Miami,” “Trilla,” “Teflon Don,” “God Forgives, I Don’t,” “Mastermind,” “Rather You Than Me,” “Port of Miami 2,” “Richer Than I Ever Been” |
| Maybach Music Group | Founder and CEO |
| Collaborations | Meek Mill, Wale, French Montana, and more |
| Notable Hits | “The Boss,” “Aston Martin Music,” “Stay Schemin’,” “Diced Pineapples,” “Purple Lamborghini,” “Gold Roses” |
| Philanthropy | Active in community and charity work |
Rick Ross, real name William Leonard Roberts II, was born in 1976. He is a rapper who is American. Before he released his debut song, “Hustlin’,” in 2006, Ross was the target of a bidding war. Offers came from Irv Gotti’s Murder Inc. and Diddy’s Bad Boy Entertainment. Ultimately, Ross agreed to a lucrative deal with Jay-Z on Def Jam Recordings.
20. Jadakiss
| Jadakiss | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jason Terrance Phillips |
| Stage Name | Jadakiss |
| Birthdate | May 27, 1975 |
| Birthplace | Yonkers, New York, U.S. |
| Other Names | Montega Jada |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, Songwriter |
| Years Active | 1992–present |
| Labels | SoRaspy, Roc Nation, Def Jam, D-Block, Roc-A-Fella, |
Born in 1975, Jason Terrance Phillips is best known by his stage moniker, Jadakiss. He is a rapper from Yonkers, New York, and he is American. He started his career in the 1990s as a member of the Ruff Ryders-managed rap group The Lox, which signed with Bad Boy. They struck a joint venture agreement with Interscope and Ruff Ryders after leaving the label in 1999. He has contracts with Def Jam and D-Block right now.
21. Dr. Dre
| Dr Dre | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dr. Dre |
| Born | February 18, 1965 (age 58) |
| Birthplace | Compton, California, U.S. |
| Other Names | Brickhard, The Mechanic |
| Occupations | Rapper, record producer, actor, entrepreneur, record executive |
| Years Active | 1985–present |
| Spouse | Nicole Plotzker (m. 1996; div. 2021) |
| Children | 8 |
| Relatives | Sir Jinx (cousin), Warren G (step-brother), Olaijah Griffin (step-nephew) |
| Genres | West Coast hip hop, gangsta rap, G-funk |
| Labels | Interscope, Aftermath, Death Row, Priority, Ruthless, Kru-Cut, Epic |
| Formerly of | World Class Wreckin’ Cru, N.W.A |
| Founder/CEO | Aftermath Entertainment, Beats Electronics |
| Solo Debut Album | The Chronic (1992) |
| Grammy Awards | 7 |
| Notable Mentees | Eminem, 50 Cent, The D.O.C., Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Anderson .Paak |
| Acting Career | Set It Off, The Wash, Training Day |
| Net Worth | Estimated $800 million (as of 2018) |
| Controversies | Accusations of violence against women, settlements and apologies |
| Early Life | Born in Compton, California, attended Vanguard Junior High School and Fremont High School |
Dr. Dre, also known as Andre Romelle Young, was born in 1965. He is a record producer and rapper from America. He is one of Beats Electronics’ co-founders. After co-founding and running Death Row Records, he is also the creator and C.E.O. of Aftermath Entertainment. When he joined the World Class Wreckin’ Cru in 1985, his professional career got underway; a year later, he joined the gangsta rap group N.W.A.
If you want to know more about the iconic rapper, check out our article on Snoop Dogg’s height. This article explores not only his physical stature but also his life, career, and impact on the rap industry.
22. Ja Rule
| Ja Rule | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ja Rule |
| Birth Name | Jeffrey Bruce Atkins Sr. |
| Stage Name | Ja Rule |
| Date of Birth | February 29, 1976 |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, East Coast hip hop, gangsta rap, |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, |
| Years Active | 1994–present |
| Labels | M-PIRE, Fontana, Universal Motown, |
| Formerly of | Murder Inc. |
| Children | 3 |
| Notable Hits | “Holla Holla”, “Between Me and You”, |
| Awards | 2 American Music Awards, 4 Grammy Award nominations |
| Sales | 14.4 million units sold in the US, |
| Television | Main cast member of WeTV’s Growing Up Hip Hop: |
| Controversy | Involvement in the Fyre Festival and subsequent |
Jeffrey Bruce Atkins, best known by his stage name Ja Rule, was born in 1976. Both an actor and rapper, he is American. He made his breakthrough in 1999 with the New York City-born and -raised album Venni Vetti Vecci and its main track “Holla Holla.” Irv Gotti’s Murder Inc. Records, originally The Inc., signed Ja Rule in the 2000s. Ja Rule had several top 20 songs in the U.S. from 1999 to 2005.
23. Eve
| Eve | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eve Jihan Cooper (née Jeffers) |
| Birthdate | November 10, 1978 |
| Birthplace | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Education | Martin Luther King High School |
| Occupations | Rapper, Singer, Actress, Television Personality |
| Years Active | 1996–present |
| Television | “Eve” |
| Spouse | Maximillion Cooper |
| Children | 1 |
| Genres | Hip Hop |
| Labels | From the Rib, Sony Music, Full Surface, Interscope, Aftermath, Ruff Ryders |
| Debut Album | “Let There Be Eve…Ruff Ryders’ First Lady” |
| Billboard Success | Reached number one on the Billboard 200 |
| Notable Singles | “What Ya Want”, “Love Is Blind”, “Gotta Man” |
| Notable Collaborations | The Roots’ Grammy-winning single “You Got Me” |
| Second Studio Album | “Scorpion” |
| Billboard Success | Peaked in the top ten of the Billboard 200 |
| Hit Single | “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” feat. Gwen Stefani |
| Acting Career | Starred in Barbershop film series |
| Talk Show | Co-host of “The Talk” |
American rapper, singer, and actress Eve Jihan Cooper was born in 1978 and is better known by her stage name, Eve. She made history in 1999 when she released her debut album, Let There Be Eve Ruff Ryders’ First Lady, which became the third female rapper to ever reach the top spot on the Billboard 200.
24. Lil’ Kim
| Lil Kim | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lil’ Kim |
| Birthdate | July 11, 1974 (age 48) |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Other Names | Queen Bee |
| Occupations | Rapper, singer, actress, model, television personality |
| Years Active | 1994–present |
| Partners | Mr. Papers |
| Children | 1 |
| Musical Genres | Hip hop |
| Labels | eOne, Atlantic, Queen Bee, Big Beat, Undeas |
| Formerly of | Junior M.A.F.I.A. |
| Debut Studio Album | Hard Core |
| Certification | Double Platinum |
| Worldwide Sales | Over 6 million copies |
| Notable Singles | “No Time,” “Not Tonight (Ladies Night),” “Crush on You” |
| Billboard Hot 100 | Number one hit with “Lady Marmalade” |
| Incarceration | Served a one-year prison sentence |
| Reality Series | Lil’ Kim: Countdown to Lockdown |
| Fashion Icon | Known for risk-taking and luxurious fashion |
| Contributions | Embracing sexuality and femininity in her art |
| Childhood and Education | Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York City |
| Association with B.I.G. | Discovered by The Notorious B.I.G. |
| Solo Career | Released debut album Hard Core |
| Collaboration | Grammy-winning “Lady Marmalade” with Christina Aguilera, Mýa, and Pink |
| Recent Album | 9 |
| Sales and Recognition | Over 15 million albums and 30 million singles sold worldwide |
| Influence and Legacy | Referred to as the “Queen of Rap” and a fashion icon |
Kimberly Denise Jones, known by her stage as Lil’ Kim, was born in 1974. She is an American rapper and reality television star. She was raised in Brooklyn, New York City, where she was born and raised, and she was evicted from her home and spent a significant amount of her adolescent years living on the streets. Jones began freestyle rapping in her teens, drawing inspiration from other female hip-hop artists like MC Lyte and the Lady of Rage.