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

Hey Ya!OutKast22rank/position

Outkast – Hey Ya! (Official HD Video)

This hip-hop masterpiece by artist OutKast, whose style excels in jazzy sampling, sets the mood with an overwhelming presence.

Its refined production lifts your spirits with ease and comfort, making it a great recommendation for summer as well.

SamuraiLupe Fiasco23rank/position

Lupe Fiasco – Samurai (Official Music Video)

A track embodying the spirit of the samurai dropped in May 2024.

While symbolically portraying a stance of steadfastly upholding one’s convictions like a samurai, its powerful message of putting an end to gang violence is also striking.

The track, weaving in elements of jazz and classical music, is truly sophisticated.

This piece serves as the lead single from the album “Samurai,” and is said to be based on the concept of Amy Winehouse working in Japan as a battle rapper.

It’s a song that fully showcases Lupe Fiasco’s distinctive style, conveying his true essence as he sharply elevates social and political themes into incisive lyrics.

Gin And JuiceSnoop Dogg24rank/position

Snoop Dogg – Gin And Juice

This work is known as a landmark of West Coast hip-hop.

Snoop Dogg’s laid-back flow perfectly matches the groovy beats produced by Dr.

Dre.

Released in January 1994, it reached No.

8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was nominated for a Grammy in 1995.

The lyrics, depicting everyday life in Long Beach, epitomize 1990s hip-hop culture.

It’s an ideal track for outdoor scenes like summer drives or BBQs, and highly recommended for anyone wanting to savor the West Coast vibe.

This Is AmericaChildish Gambino25rank/position

Childish Gambino – This Is America (Official Video)

Childish Gambino has produced numerous hit songs.

Among them, This Is America is one of his most popular tracks and is widely supported by many Americans.

The uniquely distinctive lyrics reflect his multifaceted talents as a screenwriter and comedian.

Paid In FullEric B. & Rakim26rank/position

Eric B. & Rakim – Paid In Full

The way rhymes are constructed is also a key point to pay attention to when listening to hip-hop.

So let me introduce a track that sparked a revolution in rhyming techniques: “Paid in Full.” This is the debut single by the hip-hop duo Eric B.

& Rakim.

Its lyrics make extensive use of “internal rhyme,” where rhymes occur within a single phrase.

This technique is now commonly used in Japanese hip-hop as well, and its roots can be traced back to this song.

What’s Luv?Fat Joe feat. Ashanti27rank/position

Fat Joe – What’s Luv? ft. Ashanti

This hip-hop classic by Fat Joe and Ashanti exudes a refined urban sound, featuring a melodic track approach and smart lyrics that create a rich, tasteful experience.

Its stylish, airy melody is especially appealing and makes it a great recommendation for summer.

They Reminisce Over YouPete Rock & CL Smooth28rank/position

Pete Rock & CL Smooth – They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.) (Official Video)

Pete Rock & CL Smooth, a hip-hop duo representing New York.

They emerged during the golden age of rap, and they also excel at jazz rap, effortlessly handling everything from classic, straight-ahead rap to more melodic styles.

Among their works, the renowned classic is “They Reminisce Over You.” The track, infused with a jazzy vibe, pairs perfectly with their laid-back yet tightly rhymed delivery, offering exceptional stability and groove.