Popular overseas rappers. Recommended Western/English-language rappers.
Introducing recommended Western rappers!
Hip-hop, which began spreading worldwide in the 1980s.
While it’s said to have originated in the Bronx, music with a hip-hop-like vibe actually existed in Europe—which has a much longer national history—even before then.
This time, we’ve selected rappers with exceptional skill and style from across hip-hop’s long history!
Not just from the US and UK, but also from countries like Spain and France—we’ve picked artists from around the world.
If you’re digging for high-level, cutting-edge tracks, this is a must-see!
- [US] Great Hip-Hop Classic
- Western Hip-Hop Popularity Rankings [2025]
- A 90s rapper. An artist who was active during the golden age of US hip-hop.
- A Guide to Western Rap: Introducing Legendary Classics
- Ranking of Popular Western Music Artists [2025]
- Popular Hip-Hop: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]
- A roundup of 90s Western hip-hop: classics from the golden era
- [Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / Golden Oldies
- [Western Music] A landmark masterpiece in hip-hop history! A fundamental album you should know
- Stylish hip-hop! A roundup of classic albums in Western jazzy hip-hop
- Classic Western hip-hop songs recommended for summer
- [Western music] Classic upbeat hip-hop tracks
- Recommended foreign DJs of popular overseas DJs active worldwide
Popular overseas rappers. Recommended Western rappers (1–10)
Mi Regalo Mas BonitoLa Ross Maria
La Ross Maria is a female rapper from the Dominican Republic.
She’s also popular as a freestyle battle MC, and by the age of 16 had already achieved significant recognition.
Although she has gained global fame, she has never left the Dominican rap scene, seemingly out of conviction.
Her classic track “Mi Regalo Más Bonito” is a love song that showcases her exceptional rap skills and sensibility.
When Thugs CryBizzy Bone
Bizzy Bone, the rapper known as a member of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, has a brutal past: as a child he was abducted and held captive, told his family had died, and repeatedly subjected to violence and sexual assault.
With that background, his lyrics carry immense weight, and he’s also popular for his rapid-fire style.
His signature track “When Thugs Cry” is an exceptionally sophisticated work that showcases his otherworldly skill.
MétèqueJoeyStarr
JoeyStarr, a legendary rapper who represents France.
You could say he’s very much the stereotypical rapper, and he’s had his fair share of scandals.
While there are many disappointing aspects to his personality, his music is undeniably great, and he’s respected by many heads in France.
Among his tracks, the one I especially recommend is Métèque.
His skill is off the charts in every aspect—voice, flow, everything.
French rap is often said to rank among the very best in the world, and this track proves why.
Definitely give it a listen.
Popular overseas rappers. Recommended Western rappers (11–20)
VioletConnor Price
Connor Price is a Canadian-born actor and rapper who has been gaining attention for his unique style that blends hip-hop, R&B, soul, and pop.
He debuted in 2018 with the album “4 of Clubs” and has consistently released music since then.
In 2021, he created the theme song for a professional basketball team, which drew significant attention.
He actively collaborates with a variety of artists, including bbno$ and Hoodie Allen.
His “Spin The Globe” series, which incorporates musical styles from around the world, showcases his versatility to the fullest.
Songs imbued with deep messages centered on personal experiences and challenges seem to resonate with many listeners.
Collard GreensScHoolboy Q
ScHoolboy Q, a leading figure of the new generation of West Coast hip-hop, has captivated many fans since his 2011 debut with his distinctive flow and profound lyrics.
His major-label debut album Oxymoron (2014) hit No.
1 on the Billboard charts.
He has continued to release singular works such as Blank Face LP and CrasH Talk.
His music blends the raw realities of the streets with the tenderness of a father, creating a unique worldview.
While influenced by hip-hop greats like Nas, 50 Cent, and JAY-Z, he has established his own style, marked by a gritty street sensibility and a refined sound.
VelocityTonedeff
Tonedeff is an artist known for his captivating rapid-fire raps and flow on par with Eminem.
In addition to being a rapper, he’s active as a singer-songwriter and a record label executive.
For many years, he has been a leading figure of “thug” rap in the underground and has enjoyed strong popularity, continuing to earn high praise from heads in the scene today.
Among his tracks, I recommend Velocity.
It’s packed with a high level of skill that you won’t often find in the current rap scene, so be sure to check it out.
Overnight CelebrityTwista
Twista, a rapper from Chicago, is known as a representative figure in fast rap.
In 1992, he was recognized by the Guinness World Records as the “world’s fastest rapper,” but it didn’t significantly impact his recognition as an artist at the time.
Later, in 2004, he came into the spotlight thanks to production by Kanye West, and he became widely known as a leading fast-rap artist.
His track ‘Overnight Celebrity’ lets you fully experience his rapid-fire style.
Be sure to check it out.