Popular Hip-Hop: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]

Shook Ones, Pt. IIMobb Deep15rank/position

Mobb Deep – Shook Ones, Pt. II (Official HD Video)

Mobb Deep, the hip-hop crew repping Queens, New York.

With their heavy, low-end, and dope tracks that embody the stark atmosphere of hip-hop, their presence is undeniably crucial in the long and storied history of the genre.

One of their classic tracks is Shook Ones, Pt.

II.

This authentic East Coast rap carries a blazing vibe and message that still hit hard in today’s hip-hop scene, even as styles have evolved.

If you’re a head who hasn’t heard it yet, just give it a listen and prepare to be blown away.

StrongerKanye West16rank/position

Kanye West – Stronger

Kanye West’s “Stronger” shook the scene in three ways.

First, the futuristic track that makes full use of synthesizers.

Combined with the processed vocals, it results in a mysterious sound.

Second, the powerful lyrics, which feel like they affirm every experience in life.

And lastly, the music video with a sci-fi-like world.

It’s actually inspired by anime and was filmed in Japan! For Japanese music fans, that’s something to feel proud of.

In My FeelingsDrake17rank/position

In My Feelings – Drake / Beginner’s Class

A massively popular 2018 hit by the one-and-only rapper Drake.

In the U.

S.

, it sparked a trend of people posting “dance challenge” videos on social media using this track.

It’s mellow, catchy, and easy to remember, so even beginners might find it easy to dance to.

Jump AroundHouse Of Pain18rank/position

House of Pain – Jump Around (Official Music Video)

House of Pain, the hip-hop trio active from 1991 to 1995.

Their active period was relatively short, and naturally, they didn’t release many songs.

Even so, they still enjoy enduring popularity, largely thanks to the excellence of their track “Jump Around.” Its addictive chorus, with its repeated words, sticks in your head after just one listen.

Beyond that, almost every line of the lyrics hits with the impact of what you could call a punchline.

Mama Said Knock You OutLL Cool J19rank/position

LL COOL J – Mama Said Knock You Out (Official Music Video)

LL Cool J, a rapper who has also achieved remarkable success as an actor.

When it comes to his signature tracks, “Mama Said Knock You Out” is the first that comes to mind.

The year it was released, 1991, was a time when the genre of gangsta rap emerged and began gaining popularity.

This song delivers a scathing diss to that scene.

Another essential element when discussing this track is its incredibly cool music video.

It’s said to pay homage to a famous boxing movie, and the result is just plain cool.

First, see it for yourself!

Lollipop ft. StaticLil Wayne20rank/position

Lil Wayne – Lollipop (Official Music Video) ft. Static

Lil Wayne is one of the rappers who helped popularize trap music.

In the early days of his career, many heads couldn’t get into his syrupy flow, but over time that style gained mainstream acceptance, and today he’s regarded as an indispensable figure when talking about trap music.

His classic track “Lollipop ft.

Static” can be seen as an anthem that commemorates the late Static Major.

While it might come across as somewhat laid-back, the vibes run hot—highly recommended for those who want to savor a head-nodding groove that you can really sink into.

U Can’t Touch ThisMC Hammer21rank/position

M.C. Hammer – U Can’t Touch This

Many of you might find the distinctive track familiar, right? Known as one of MC Hammer’s signature songs, this track features a memorable, catchy bassline sampled from Rick James’s “Super Freak.” Released in February 1990, it’s a high-energy number that blends dance and rap, boldly declaring Hammer’s success and confidence.

Its popularity was immense, earning accolades such as MTV Video Music Awards and Grammy Awards.

Famous for its flashy dance moves and fashion, it’s the perfect song for summer parties or whenever you want to boost your mood.