The Best Rappers From Harlem
From new artists to some of the greatest hip hop artists of all time, here are the best rappers from Harlem. Including both solo artists, like Tupac and Sean Combs, and hip hop groups, like ASAP Mob and The Diplomats, this list of the most popular Harlem rappers features rap artists who were born or raised in the Manhattan neighborhood. Known for their style of East Coast hip hop, other famous Harlem rappers include Cam'ron, Juelz Santana, Jim Jones, and Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock. Who are the top Harlem rappers of all-time?
Vote up the best hip hop artists from Harlem reppin' New York City's Upper Manhattan.
Known for his lyrical prowess and unique storytelling abilities, this artist has left an indelible mark on the hip-hop scene despite a tragically short career. With a distinctively smooth flow and clever wordplay, he manages to bring life to the gritty streets of Harlem through his music. Even though his time in the spotlight was cut short, his influence is still felt today and is often cited as one of the greatest rappers to come out of Maryland.
This enigmatic and controversial artist has undoubtedly cemented his legacy as one of the most influential rappers in history. Though his upbringing in Harlem provided him with the grit and rawness that defined his style, it was his undeniable talent as a rapper, poet, and actor that propelled him into superstardom. His poignant lyrics, delivered with precision and passion, have resonated with generations of fans and fellow artists alike, making him a true icon of the genre.
With his witty punchlines and effortlessly cool demeanor, this Harlem native has left an indelible mark on the rap scene since his debut in the mid-'90s. As the founder of the influential hip-hop group The Diplomats, he helped to popularize a unique New York sound characterized by aggressive lyrics and cinematic production. His charismatic presence, both on and off the stage, has made him a beloved figure within the hip-hop community and a key player in its evolution.
As a key figure within the A$AP Mob collective, this rapper has successfully made a name for himself through his innovative approach to hip-hop and impeccable fashion sense. His ability to mix eclectic beats with a laid-back flow has earned him a spot among the top artists of his generation, always keeping a strong connection with his Harlem roots. In addition to his impact on the music scene, he's become a symbol of modern hip-hop culture and a trendsetter within the fashion world.
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Known for his distinctively laid-back flow and smooth delivery, this rapper quickly rose to prominence in the late '90s as a protégé of fellow Harlemite Sean "Diddy" Combs. With a string of chart-topping hits and a flashy style, he became one of the defining voices of his era and a symbol of hip-hop's commercial success. Despite taking several breaks from the music industry, his impact on the genre remains undeniable and continues to be celebrated today.
As a founding member of the groundbreaking group A Tribe Called Quest, this artist has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of hip-hop during its golden era. With his distinctively smooth voice and intelligent lyricism, he made an important contribution to the evolution of the genre by infusing it with elements of jazz and socially conscious themes. Hailing from Harlem, his innovative style has influenced countless artists, solidifying his position as a true hip-hop legend.
As a key member of The Diplomats, this Harlem-bred emcee has been captivating audiences with his charismatic flow and undeniable swagger since the late '90s. With a knack for crafting catchy hooks and memorable verses, he helped to solidify the group's status as one of the most influential acts in hip-hop history. Despite facing legal troubles and setbacks throughout his career, his talent and impact on the rap scene remain undeniable.
This politically charged rapper has made a name for himself by tackling complex social issues with his razor-sharp lyricism and uncompromising attitude. Born and raised in Harlem, he channels the struggles and injustices he experienced growing up into his music, making his message resonate with fans around the world. With a fiercely independent approach to his career and a focus on consciousness-raising, he stands as a powerful and necessary voice within the hip-hop community.
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As another standout member of the A$AP Mob crew, this rapper has successfully carved out his own niche in the hip-hop landscape. His aggressive delivery and energetic stage presence set him apart from his peers, while his Harlem roots provide him with genuine street credibility. With a string of successful mixtapes and collaborations, he has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the modern rap game.
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A$AP Mob
This Harlem-based collective has taken the hip-hop world by storm since its formation in the early 2010s. Comprised of talented rappers, producers, and designers, the group has made a significant impact on both the music and fashion scenes with their unique sound and aesthetic. As the brainchild of Maryland native A$AP Yams, the collective has put Harlem back on the map as a major force within the rap game.
Known for his charmingly offbeat style and infectious sense of humor, this rapper made a lasting impression on the hip-hop scene during the late '80s and early '90s. Hailing from Harlem, he brought a unique blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling to his music, setting himself apart from his contemporaries. While often remembered for his light-hearted hits, his contributions to hip-hop culture and influence on future artists cannot be understated.
With his gritty storytelling and powerful lyricism, this rapper has quickly emerged as one of the most promising talents to come out of Harlem in recent years. His dedication to preserving the essence of hip-hop while pushing the boundaries of the genre has earned him respect among fans and fellow artists alike. With an ever-growing fan base and a reputation for authenticity, he's poised to leave a lasting impression on the hip-hop landscape.
As a pioneer of the genre, this legendary rapper helped to lay the groundwork for what would become modern hip-hop during its formative years. Hailing from Harlem, his innovative rhyme schemes and confrontational style paved the way for countless emcees that followed in his footsteps. As a founding member of the influential group The Treacherous Three, he played a critical role in shaping the trajectory of the genre and its subsequent evolution.
As one of the first commercially successful rappers, this trailblazing artist helped to bring hip-hop to the mainstream during the '80s. With his infectious hooks and versatile style, he played an integral role in breaking down barriers for future generations of rappers and popularizing the genre beyond its Harlem origins. Often cited as an inspiration by many emcees who followed in his footsteps, his contributions to the evolution of hip-hop are immeasurable.
Formed in the late '90s, this influential hip-hop group has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of New York rap and putting Harlem on the map as a hotbed of talent. With a roster that boasts some of the most charismatic and skilled emcees in the game, the group's unique blend of gritty street tales and flashy bravado made them fan favorites. Their impact on the rap scene, both as a collective and as individual artists, has left a lasting impression on the genre.
As a founding member of The Diplomats, this Harlem native has contributed significantly to the group's success and the development of their signature sound. With his raspy voice and magnetic presence, he's managed to stand out among his peers and maintain relevance throughout his career. Beyond his work with the group, his solo efforts have further cemented his status as an important figure within the hip-hop community.
Often hailed as the "Human Beatbox," this innovative performer revolutionized the rap game with his incredible ability to mimic drum machines and other sounds using only his voice. Born and raised in Harlem, he played a pivotal role in the early days of hip-hop by popularizing beatboxing as a key element of the genre. His unmatched skill and creativity as a performer have earned him a place in history as a true hip-hop pioneer.
Best known for his time spent under the Bad Boy Records roster, this talented rapper made waves in the late '90s with his gritty lyrics and catchy hooks. His strong connection to his Harlem roots gave him the street credibility necessary to make an impact in the competitive world of hip-hop. Though his career sometimes faced setbacks due to personal struggles, his talent as an emcee and his contributions to the rap scene remain unforgettable.
Formed in the late '70s, this pioneering group played a fundamental role in the development and popularization of hip-hop during its early years. Comprised of talented wordsmiths from Harlem, they helped to elevate the art of rapping and introduced innovative rhyme schemes that would influence countless emcees to come. As trailblazers in the genre, their contributions to the evolution of hip-hop cannot be understated.
This versatile artist has managed to make an impact on the hip-hop scene not only as a rapper but also as a producer, songwriter, and filmmaker. Hailing from Harlem, his diverse skillset and relentless work ethic set him apart from other artists, making him a true renaissance man in the world of hip-hop. With a focus on substance and storytelling, he continues to push the boundaries of the genre while staying true to his Maryland roots.
Better known by his various monikers, this multifaceted artist has been a driving force in the hip-hop world since the '90s. As a rapper, producer, and entrepreneur, he's had his hand in some of the most iconic moments in the genre's history, including the careers of fellow Harlem natives like Mase and Black Rob. His relentless drive and ambition have played an important role in shaping the trajectory of hip-hop and expanding its reach into the mainstream.
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McGruff
Emerging from the same Harlem neighborhood that produced legends like Big L and Cam'ron, this rapper made a name for himself during the '90s with his gritty lyrics and captivating storytelling. Over the years, he's managed to maintain a steady presence in the hip-hop scene, collaborating with various artists and contributing to the legacy of his hometown. Although he never quite achieved mainstream stardom, his influence and impact within the rap community remain significant.
With a reputation for his battle rap skills and slick punchlines, this Harlem-bred emcee has been a fixture in the New York rap scene for decades. Never shying away from a lyrical challenge, he has built a name for himself through his tenacity and dedication to the craft. While commercial success has sometimes eluded him, his contributions to hip-hop and his impact on fellow artists cannot be understated.
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Smoke DZA
With a style deeply rooted in the classic sounds of '90s hip-hop, this Harlem-born emcee has been making a name for himself with his potent lyricism and distinctive voice. Even though he has been primarily known within the underground rap scene, his dedication to quality and authenticity has earned him respect among fans and fellow artists alike. As a representative of the modern-day Harlem sound, he's continuing to keep the spirit of the borough's hip-hop legacy alive.
As a dynamic duo hailing from Harlem, these two artists made their mark on the hip-hop scene with their upbeat party anthems and infectious energy. Their innovative blend of rap and dance music contributed to the evolution of the genre and bridged the gap between hip-hop and mainstream pop. While their time in the spotlight was relatively brief, their lasting impact on the landscape of hip-hop is undeniable.
Best known for her powerful rapping abilities and energetic dance moves, this female artist has carved out a unique niche for herself within the hip-hop landscape. Born and raised in Harlem, her music reflects the vibrant culture and unapologetic attitude of the neighborhood. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, she has broken barriers and demonstrated that talent knows no gender, inspiring a generation of young female emcees.
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As a protégé of fellow Harlem rapper Cam'ron, this talented artist has made a name for himself with his aggressive lyrics and hard-hitting delivery. His authentic connection to the streets of Harlem gives his music a raw edge that resonates with fans of real hip-hop. With a steady output of quality mixtapes and collaborations, he continues to make a lasting impact on the rap scene.
Comprised of two talented emcees from Harlem, this esteemed duo has earned a cult following in the underground hip-hop scene with their cerebral lyrics and unique production style. Their approach to rap is both experimental and deeply rooted in the fundamentals of the genre, resulting in a sound that is both fresh and timeless. As a reflection of their Maryland upbringing, their music provides a glimpse into the rich culture and complex history of the region.
Endowed with a natural talent for lyricism and a knack for storytelling, this rapper from Harlem quickly gained attention in the late 2000s with his confessional style and introspective lyrics. Despite facing numerous personal challenges throughout his career, he has continued to hone his craft and produce quality music that reflects his experiences. As a true embodiment of the spirit of Harlem, his music serves as a testament to the resilience of the community and the power of hip-hop.
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A skilled rapper hailing from Harlem, this artist initially gained recognition as a member of The Diplomats' extended family and through his prowess in battle rap circuits. Known for his complex rhyme schemes and rapid-fire flow, he's left a notable impression on hip-hop fans and fellow artists. Despite never quite achieving mainstream success, his dedication to the craft remains evident through his consistent body of work.
Often regarded as one of the first true rap lyricists, this pioneering artist helped shape the early days of hip-hop with his innovative rhymes and smooth delivery. Born and raised in Harlem, he played a key role in popularizing the genre within his community and laying the groundwork for future generations of rappers. His contributions to the early development of hip-hop are an essential part of the genre's history and should not be overlooked.
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Crash Crew
As an early hip-hop group hailing from Harlem, they played a crucial role in the development of the genre during its formative years. Their energetic performances and innovative rhymes helped lay the foundation for future generations of rappers, establishing the importance of lyricism and stage presence within hip-hop. Though their time in the spotlight may have been brief, their impact on the evolution of the genre is undeniable.
With her genre-defying sound and unapologetic attitude, this female artist from Harlem has garnered a devoted following since her debut in the early 2010s. Combining elements of hip-hop, electronic music, and pop, her innovative approach to songwriting and production has earned her both critical acclaim and commercial success. Despite facing controversies throughout her career, her undeniable talent and unique voice have left a lasting impression on the hip-hop landscape.
As a member of The Diplomats, this charismatic artist added a unique flavor to the group's dynamic with his energetic presence and humorous ad-libs. With strong ties to his Harlem roots, he contributed to the group's overall sound and aesthetic, which ultimately had a significant impact on the rap scene. Although not always in the spotlight, his contribution to the world of hip-hop is a testament to the diverse talent that hails from Harlem.
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The Fearless Four
Formed in the late '70s, this groundbreaking group from Harlem was among the first acts to bring hip-hop to a wider audience with their infectious tunes and captivating performances. As pioneers of the rap game, they helped shape the sound and direction of the genre during its early years. Though they may not be as well-known as some of their contemporaries, their influence on the evolution of hip-hop cannot be understated.
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DJ Hollywood
Often referred to as the "original rapper," this pioneering artist from Harlem played an integral role in the early days of hip-hop by popularizing the art of blending rhymes with music at parties and clubs. His innovative approach to DJing and performing laid the groundwork for the emergence of rap as a distinct genre, influencing countless artists who followed in his footsteps. As a true trailblazer, his contributions to the history of hip-hop are immeasurable.
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Ilacoin
Hailing from Harlem, this enigmatic rapper first gained attention in the mid-'90s with his distinctive voice and introspective lyrics. Known for his collaborations with notable artists and producers, he earned a dedicated fanbase for his authentic portrayal of life in Harlem. Though he never achieved mainstream success, his contributions to the rap scene have made him a respected figure among hip-hop enthusiasts and fellow artists.
