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 (31–40)
Full ClipGang Starr
Known as pioneers of jazz rap, the American hip-hop duo Gang Starr was formed in 1989 by Guru and DJ Premier.
They debuted with the album “No More Mr.
Nice Guy” and went on to release seven studio albums.
DJ Premier’s production, deftly incorporating jazz, funk, and soul, together with Guru’s philosophical and socially conscious lyrics, has captivated many hip-hop fans.
Their album “Moment of Truth” achieved significant commercial and critical success, and their distinctive style has influenced numerous artists, including Nas and Jay-Z.
Until Guru’s passing in 2010, they remained a vital force in the East Coast hip-hop scene.
Their music is recommended for listeners interested in the fusion of jazz and hip-hop.
Jump AroundHouse Of Pain
House of Pain is the group that put Irish-American identity front and center and carved out a unique presence in the ’90s hip-hop scene.
Comprising Everlast, Danny Boy, and DJ Lethal, they formed in Los Angeles in 1990.
Their 1992 album House of Pain (Fine Malt Lyrics) brought them sudden attention, and that same year they were nominated for a Grammy in the category Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.
After the group disbanded, Everlast won a Grammy in 2000 for a collaboration with Santana, while DJ Lethal went on to make his mark with Limp Bizkit—each member opening up new musical horizons.
Their music, which fuses hardcore hip-hop with Irish cultural elements, is perfect for listeners seeking a distinctive sound.
HaJuvenile
Juvenile, who is based in New Orleans, USA, is a rapper representing the Southern hip-hop scene.
Known as the face of Cash Money Records, he has captivated many fans with his distinctive flow and energetic performances since his solo debut in 1995.
In 1998, he released his breakthrough album, 400 Degreez, helping lead the golden era of Southern hip-hop.
He continued delivering hit songs and earned a Grammy nomination in 2004, among other notable achievements.
His musical style uniquely fuses New Orleans bounce music with hip-hop, drawing listeners in with powerful beats and memorable lyrics.
He’s highly recommended for music fans who crave raw street realism and danceable grooves.
Hip Hop HoorayNaughty By Nature
Formed in New Jersey, USA, in 1986, Naughty by Nature is a group that represents the East Coast hip-hop scene.
With support from Queen Latifah, they made a striking debut in 1991.
The trio—Treach, Vin Rock, and DJ Kay Gee—has continued to captivate listeners with a seamless blend of skillful raps and catchy melodies.
In 1996, they won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, becoming the inaugural recipient of that honor with their album Poverty’s Paradise, leaving a major mark on hip-hop.
Close friends with 2Pac, the group crafted a wide range of tracks from party anthems to socially conscious songs, earning enduring acclaim as an emblem of hip-hop’s golden age in the ’90s.
They’re highly recommended for listeners seeking danceable beats and skillful rap.
On My BlockScarface
Scarface, hailing from Houston, Texas, is known as a pioneer of Southern hip-hop.
He signed with Rap-A-Lot Records in 1989 and began his career as a member of the legendary hip-hop group the Geto Boys.
He made his solo debut in 1991 with the album “Mr.
Scarface Is Back,” and has since released numerous classic records.
At the 2001 Source Awards, he won Lyricist of the Year.
His deep, resonant voice, introspective lyrics, and exceptional storytelling that depicts social issues have influenced countless artists.
His achievements were honored when the city of Houston declared June 26, 2016 “Scarface Day.” He’s an artist highly recommended for anyone drawn to gangsta rap or Southern hip-hop.
Popular overseas rappers. Recommended Western rappers (41–50)
The Jump OffLil’ Kim
Lil’ Kim, an American artist who made an innovative impact on the 1990s hip-hop scene, debuted as a member of Junior M.
A.
F.
I.
A.
with a unique style that fused East Coast hip hop and dirty rap.
Bursting onto the scene with the 1995 album Conspiracy, she followed up with her 1996 solo album Hard Core, which went double platinum.
In 2001, she won a Grammy Award for the cover of Lady Marmalade, cementing her commanding presence.
With provocative lyrics and bold fashion sense, she opened up new horizons for female artists, and her music is recommended for listeners pursuing musical creativity.
Go DJLil Wayne
It’s a classic by the popular rapper Lil Wayne that leaves a catchy yet mellow and heavy impression.
His character shines in the way it projects both a cool and a pop sensibility, making it a work that shocked many hip-hop fans.