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 (41–50)
Big EnergyLatto
Rapper Latto, from Atlanta, Georgia, made a striking debut on the music scene after winning a talent competition in 2016.
She took her first steps as a professional artist independently, then signed with RCA Records and officially launched with her album “Queen of da Souf.” In 2023, her collaboration with BTS’s Jung Kook topped the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing her remarkable rise.
Known for her powerful flow and candid lyricism, she delivers songs centered on themes of independence and strength.
She is also dedicated to social impact, founding the Win Some Give Some Foundation to support young women—an effort that has earned recognition beyond her work as an artist.
Bringing fresh energy to contemporary hip-hop, her music is perfect for fans who value strong will and self-expression.
Popular overseas rappers. Recommended Western rappers (51–60)
NastyTinashe
Tinashe, an American artist with talents spanning singer, songwriter, dancer, and producer, has earned global support for her distinctive musical style that blends electronic sounds with an R&B and pop foundation.
She signed with RCA Records in 2012 and made her major debut in 2014.
She has been highly active, including joining the tours of artists like Nicki Minaj and Katy Perry.
Her debut album, Aquarius, proved her prowess by reaching No.
3 on the U.
S.
R&B/Hip-Hop chart.
In March 2015, she made her first visit to Japan at SPRINGROOVE, captivating audiences with her commanding dance performance and vocal ability.
She’s a recommended artist for listeners seeking a fusion of dance music and R&B.
Insane In The BrainCypress Hill
Cypress Hill is a hip-hop group formed in California in 1988 by Latino Americans.
They gained instant attention with their 1991 debut album, Cypress Hill, and their album Black Sunday, which includes their signature track “Insane in the Brain,” reached No.
1 on the Billboard charts in 1993.
The group has sold over 20 million records worldwide and has been nominated for the Grammy Awards three times.
Their distinctive sound blends lo-fi beats with Latin percussion, and they are known for their outspoken embrace of marijuana culture.
They have had a major influence on street culture and fashion, making them highly recommended for anyone seeking the essence of hip-hop.
Big FootNicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj is one of the globally active female rappers.
She released her debut album Pink Friday in 2010 and quickly drew widespread attention.
She delivered hit songs such as Super Bass and Moment 4 Life and went on to win numerous awards.
Her appeal lies in her distinctive style that fuses rap and pop.
In 2019, she released Megatron, which dominated the charts.
She also showcases her versatility as a voice actor in the Ice Age film series.
Her unfiltered lyrics and unique fashion have earned overwhelming support from young people.
If you’re interested in female rap, be sure to check her out.
Men In BlackWill Smith
This is a rapper song by Will Smith, whose multifaceted talent—also shining as an actor—and keen sense in sampling Patrice Rushen have captivated many crowds.
The mid-tempo, easy-to-groove rhythm paired with the standout texture of his rap makes for a highly impressive track.
IntergalacticBeastie Boys
A hip-hop group born in New York.
Formed in 1979, they initially started as a hardcore punk band before shifting to hip-hop.
Their 1986 debut album, “Licensed to Ill,” became the first rap album to reach No.
1 on the Billboard 200.
Mixing humor with sharp sensibilities, they crossed the boundary between rock and rap and helped pave the way for hip-hop into the mainstream.
Incorporating elements of jazz and funk and continually exploring a blend of live instrumentation and sampling, their music continues to captivate many listeners.
They are a group I highly recommend to anyone interested in Western hip-hop.
How We DoThe Game
He’s a rapper who rose from Compton, the heart of West Coast hip-hop, to the world stage.
He debuted in 2005 with The Documentary, which hit No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts and earned a Grammy nomination.
Known for his collaborations with Dr.
Dre and 50 Cent, his appeal lies in lyrics that vividly depict real street life.
In November 2024, he’s set to embark on a European tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of his debut.
Carrying on the lineage of gangsta rap, The Game’s music is perfect for those who value an authentic street atmosphere.
With powerful flows and polished beats, it’s packed with a magnetism that draws listeners in.