Avant-garde hip hop artists have long pushed the boundaries of experimental rap, creating innovative and boundary-pushing music that challenges traditional notions of what hip hop can be. From the early days of old school hip hop to the current crop of progressive hip hop artists, the genre has evolved significantly over the years, influenced by pioneers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Chance the Rapper. These trailblazers have paved the way for a new generation of experimental rappers who continue to redefine the sound of hip hop.

The OG Hip Hop Artists

We’re proud to say that our community has been influenced by some of the greatest hip hop artists of all time.

• LL Cool J
• Slick Rick
• Ultramagnetic MCs
• Jungle Brothers
• Run-DMC
• Public Enemy
• Beastie Boys
• KRS-One
• DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
• Eric B

These pioneers paved the way for future generations of hip hop artists, pushing the boundaries of what was possible with the genre.

1. Abstract Hip Hop is a cultural platform dedicated to exploring the world of hip hop music, art, and culture.
2. Our site features blog posts, artist interviews, music reviews, and in-depth articles on the latest trends in the abstract and experimental hip hop scene.
3. We emphasize avant-garde production techniques, spoken word, jazz, funk, and electronic influences, offering readers a unique insight into the underground hip hop movement.
4. As a hub for hip hop enthusiasts, we serve as a platform for those looking to explore the genre’s more unconventional sounds and ideas.

Some notable mentions include:

• Boogie Down Productions
• De La Soul
• A Tribe Called Quest
• The Pharcyde
• The Roots

Each of these groups brought something unique to the table, contributing to the rich tapestry of hip hop history.

Key Figures

Some of the most influential figures in hip hop include:

• Grandmaster Flash
• Russell Simmons
• Rick Rubin
• Dr. Dre
• Tupac Shakur

These individuals helped shape the sound and style of hip hop, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.

Legacy

The OG hip hop artists have left behind a lasting legacy, inspiring countless others to pick up the mic and create their own music.

From the early days of hip hop to the present day, their influence can still be felt, shaping the course of the genre and paving the way for future generations of artists.

The Big Three in Hip Hop

We’re often asked who the most influential figures in contemporary hip-hop are, and our answer is always the same: Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Drake.

• Kendrick Lamar

  A pioneer of conscious rap, Kendrick Lamar has been pushing the boundaries of lyrical storytelling since his debut album “Section.80” dropped in 2011. With albums like “good kid, m.A.A.d city,” “To Pimp a Butterfly,” and “DAMN.,” he’s cemented his status as one of the most innovative and critically acclaimed artists in the game.

  His music often explores themes of racism, police brutality, and black identity, making him a powerful voice for social justice. With his unique blend of jazz, funk, and spoken word influences, Kendrick has redefined what it means to be a rapper.

  Check out his latest album, “Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers,” which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart.

• J. Cole

  J. Cole is known for his introspective and personal lyrics, which have resonated with fans worldwide. His debut mixtape “The Come Up” was released in 2007, but it was his major-label debut “Cole World: The Sideline Story” that brought him mainstream success.

  With albums like “Born Sinner” and “2014 Forest Hills Drive,” J. Cole has solidified his position as one of the most respected voices in hip-hop. He’s also made headlines for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in his hometown of Fayetteville, North Carolina.

  Be sure to check out his latest album, “The Off-Season,” which features collaborations with Lil Baby and 21 Savage.

• Drake

  Love him or hate him, Drake is undoubtedly one of the most successful rappers of the past decade. With a string of hit singles like “God’s Plan” and “One Dance,” he’s broken numerous records and won countless awards.

  From his early days as a mixtape artist to his current status as a global superstar, Drake has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in hip-hop. His music often blends melodic flows with introspective lyrics, making him a fan favorite among both old-school and new-school listeners.

  Don’t miss his latest album, “Honestly, Nevermind,” which marks a departure from his usual sound and explores a more experimental, dance-oriented style.

Of course, there are many other talented artists who could be considered part of the Big Three in hip-hop. But these three individuals have undeniably had the greatest impact on the genre in recent years.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering hip-hop, we hope this guide has helped you understand why Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Drake are the most influential figures in contemporary hip-hop.

The Most Influential Hip Hop Artist

We’re often asked who the most influential hip hop artist is, and the answer can vary depending on personal taste and preferences.

• Nas: Known for his lyrical prowess and poetic storytelling, Nas has been a major force in hip hop since the release of his debut album “Illmatic” in 1994.
• Kendrick Lamar: A contemporary of Nas, Kendrick Lamar has pushed the boundaries of hip hop with his socially conscious lyrics and fusion of jazz and funk influences.
• Jay-Z: As one of the most successful rappers of all time, Jay-Z has built a business empire and become a respected entrepreneur and philanthropist.
• Tupac Shakur: A legendary rapper and social activist, Tupac Shakur’s impact on hip hop extends far beyond his music, inspiring generations of artists and fans alike.
• The Notorious B.I.G.: With his smooth flow and vivid storytelling, Biggie Smalls became one of the most beloved rappers of the 1990s, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire new artists.

While opinions may vary, these five artists have undoubtedly had a profound influence on the evolution of hip hop, shaping its sound, style, and cultural significance.

Why These Artists Stand Out

1. Lyrical Complexity: Each of these artists has demonstrated exceptional lyrical skill, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in hip hop.
2. Cultural Impact: Their music has addressed pressing social issues, reflected the experiences of marginalized communities, and inspired positive change.
3. Innovative Production: From Nas’s boom bap beats to Kendrick Lamar’s jazz-infused soundscapes, these artists have consistently innovated and experimented with new styles.
4. Business Acumen: Jay-Z’s entrepreneurial spirit and Tupac’s activism have shown that hip hop can be a powerful tool for building businesses and driving social justice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the most influential hip hop artist is a matter of personal opinion, but these five individuals have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the genre.

What is Considered the Greatest Rap Album Ever?

The debate surrounding the greatest rap album ever has been ongoing for decades, with various artists and albums vying for the top spot.

• The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Ready to Die” (1994)
• Nas’ “Illmatic” (1994)
• Tupac Shakur’s “All Eyez on Me” (1996)
• The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998)

Each of these albums has its own unique qualities and contributions to the rap genre, making it difficult to pinpoint a single greatest album.

1. Impact on the Genre: Tupac’s “All Eyez on Me” had a significant impact on the West Coast rap scene, while Nas’ “Illmatic” helped establish New York City as a major force in hip-hop.
2. Critical Acclaim: Lauryn Hill’s “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” received widespread critical acclaim, earning her five Grammy Awards.
3. Commercial Success: The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Ready to Die” was a commercial success, selling over 10 million copies worldwide.

In conclusion, determining the greatest rap album ever is subjective and depends on individual perspectives and criteria.

Other Notable Mentions:

• Jay-Z’s “The Blueprint” (2001)
• Kendrick Lamar’s “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” (2012)
• Drake’s “Take Care” (2011)

These albums have also made significant contributions to the rap genre and are worth considering in the conversation about the greatest rap album ever.

Abstract Hip Hop’s Take:

We believe that the greatest rap album ever is a matter of personal preference, and there are many great albums to choose from.

Who is 1 in Rap?

We’re often asked who is considered the number one rapper in the game, and while opinions may vary, we’ll give you our take on the matter.

• The King of New York: Many would argue that Nas is the greatest rapper to come out of New York City, with his poetic lyrics and effortless flow making him a standout in the game.
• The GOAT: Some might say that Eminem is the greatest rapper of all time, with his incredible storytelling ability and versatility making him a force to be reckoned with.
• The Abstract Legend: As a platform dedicated to exploring the world of abstract hip hop, we have a soft spot for artists like MF DOOM, whose innovative style and lyrical dexterity continue to inspire a new generation of rappers.
• The Underground Icon: Artists like J Dilla and Madvillain are highly respected for their contributions to the underground hip hop scene, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with their unique sound and style.

Of course, there are many other talented rappers out there who could be considered the number one in rap, depending on personal taste and preferences. But these individuals are certainly among the most influential and respected in the game.

Why These Rappers Stand Out

1. Nas’s lyrical complexity and poetic flow set him apart from other rappers.
2. Eminem’s ability to tell stories through his rhymes has made him a beloved figure in popular culture.
3. MF DOOM’s innovative style and lyrical dexterity have inspired countless other rappers.
4. J Dilla and Madvillain’s contributions to the underground hip hop scene have paved the way for future generations of artists.

Conclusion

In conclusion, determining who is the number one rapper in rap is subjective and open to interpretation. However, these individuals are widely regarded as some of the most talented and influential rappers in the game, and their contributions to hip hop continue to inspire and influence new generations of artists.

The Number 1 Greatest Album of All Time

We’re often asked what we consider to be the greatest album of all time, and our answer may surprise you.

• Our Top Pick: Kendrick Lamar – “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” (2012)
• This critically acclaimed album has been widely praised for its storytelling, lyrical complexity, and fusion of jazz, funk, and hip-hop elements.
• Kendrick Lamar’s masterful blend of personal narrative and social commentary has made “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” a timeless classic.
• With standout tracks like “Swimming Pools (Drank)” and “Sing About Me, I’m Dying of Thirst,” this album showcases Kendrick’s innovative production style and poignant songwriting.
• As a result, “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” has been named one of the greatest albums of all time by various publications, including Rolling Stone and Pitchfork.

Other Notable Mentions:

• Nas – “Illmatic” (1994)
• This hip-hop masterpiece is widely regarded as one of the greatest debut albums in history, featuring Nas’s poetic lyrics and DJ Premier’s iconic beats.
• The Notorious B.I.G. – “Ready to Die” (1994)
• This album marked a turning point in Biggie’s career, showcasing his storytelling ability and emotional depth.
• Jay-Z – “The Blueprint” (2001)
• This album cemented Jay-Z’s status as a hip-hop icon, featuring hits like “Takeover” and “Izzo (H.O.V.A.).”

Why These Albums Stand Out:

Each of these albums has contributed significantly to the evolution of hip-hop, pushing the boundaries of lyrical complexity, production innovation, and cultural relevance.

From Kendrick Lamar’s socially conscious storytelling to Nas’s poetic lyricism, these albums have left an indelible mark on the genre.

Whether you’re a seasoned hip-hop head or just discovering the genre, these albums are essential listening experiences that continue to inspire and influence new generations of artists and fans alike.