Best Rappers Every Year: A Comprehensive Guide

The world of hip-hop has evolved tremendously over the years, and identifying the best rappers every year is a subject of great debate among fans and critics alike. Each year brings new talent and unique styles that contribute to the dynamic landscape of this genre. In this article, we will explore the best rappers for each year, detailing their contributions to the music industry and the impact they've made on fans and culture as a whole.

The hip-hop scene is not just about the music; it reflects societal issues, personal experiences, and artistic expressions. Every year, certain artists rise above the rest, either through groundbreaking albums, powerful performances, or cultural influence. In this guide, we will delve into the best rappers, highlighting their achievements and why they stood out during their respective years.

From legendary icons to emerging stars, the list of best rappers continues to grow. This article will serve as a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to understand the evolution of hip-hop through the lens of its most influential artists. Let’s embark on this journey to discover the best rappers from each year, showcasing their artistry, achievements, and the legacies they are building.

Table of Contents

• Best Rappers of 2010
• Best Rappers of 2011
• Best Rappers of 2012
• Best Rappers of 2013
• Best Rappers of 2014
• Best Rappers of 2015
• Best Rappers of 2016
• Best Rappers of 2017

Best Rappers of 2010

In 2010, several rappers made significant impacts with their albums and collaborations. The top contenders included:

• Kanye West: His album "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" was a critical and commercial success, showcasing his innovative production and introspective lyrics.
• Eminem: With "Recovery," Eminem made a strong comeback, addressing personal struggles and reaffirming his place in the industry.
• Drake: Emerging as a dominant force, Drake's "Thank Me Later" solidified his status as a mainstream artist.

Best Rappers of 2011

The year 2011 was marked by the rise of new talents and the continued success of established artists:

• J. Cole: His debut album "Cole World: The Sideline Story" showcased his lyrical prowess and storytelling ability.
• Kendrick Lamar: With his mixtape "Section.80," Kendrick began to gain recognition for his thought-provoking themes and unique style.
• Lil Wayne: "Tha Carter IV" reaffirmed Lil Wayne's status as a powerhouse in hip-hop, featuring hit singles that dominated the charts.

Best Rappers of 2012

In 2012, the hip-hop landscape continued to evolve with new sounds and innovative artists:

• Kendrick Lamar: His album "good kid, m.A.A.d city" was a game-changer, establishing him as one of the leading voices in hip-hop.
• 2 Chainz: With "Based on a T.R.U. Story," 2 Chainz became a household name, known for his catchy hooks and memorable verses.
• Nicki Minaj: As one of the leading female rappers, her album "Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded" showcased her versatility and commercial appeal.

Best Rappers of 2013

The year 2013 saw the emergence of several artists who would define the future of hip-hop:

• Kendrick Lamar: His verse on "Control" sent shockwaves through the industry, challenging fellow rappers and asserting his dominance.
• Drake: With "Nothing Was the Same," Drake continued to solidify his status as a top-tier artist with introspective and relatable lyrics.
• J. Cole: "Born Sinner" showcased J. Cole's growth as an artist and further established him as a leading voice in hip-hop.

Best Rappers of 2014

In 2014, hip-hop saw the rise of diverse sounds and themes:

• J. Cole: His album "2014 Forest Hills Drive" became a cultural phenomenon, highlighting his storytelling abilities and authenticity.
• Kendrick Lamar: "To Pimp a Butterfly" was a critically acclaimed work that addressed complex social issues and furthered Kendrick's artistic vision.
• Drake: With "If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late," Drake showcased his versatility and commercial appeal, solidifying his place in hip-hop.

Best Rappers of 2015

2015 was a year of collaborations and groundbreaking projects:

• Kendrick Lamar: His performance at the Grammy Awards and the release of "To Pimp a Butterfly" made him the standout artist of the year.
• Drake: "Views" was one of the year's most anticipated albums, featuring a mix of introspective tracks and club anthems.
• Future: With his mixtape "DS2," Future established himself as a key figure in the trap music scene.

Best Rappers of 2016

The year 2016 was marked by significant releases and cultural moments:

• Chance the Rapper: His mixtape "Coloring Book" was a groundbreaking project, highlighting his unique style and approach to hip-hop.
• Kendrick Lamar: "untitled unmastered" showcased Kendrick's artistic range and creativity, further solidifying his reputation.
• Drake: "Views" continued to dominate the charts, featuring hit singles that resonated with fans worldwide.

Best Rappers of 2017

In 2017, hip-hop continued to diversify, with new artists breaking through:

• Kendrick Lamar: His album "DAMN." received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, further solidifying his place in hip-hop history.
• Drake: The release of "More Life" showcased his versatility and ability to blend genres.
• J. Cole: "4 Your Eyez Only" demonstrated J. Cole's growth as an artist and his commitment to storytelling.

Conclusion

Throughout the years, the best rappers have continually pushed the boundaries of hip-hop, each contributing to the genre in unique and profound ways. From Kanye West's innovative productions to Kendrick Lamar's poignant lyrics, these artists have shaped the sound and culture of hip-hop.

As we look forward to the future of music, we encourage you to explore the works of these influential rappers and engage in discussions about their impact. What are your thoughts on the best rappers of each year? Share your opinions in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out more articles on our site for deeper insights into the world of hip-hop!

Final Thoughts

Thank you for taking the time to explore the best rappers every year with us. We hope this article has provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of hip-hop. We invite you to return for more exciting content and discussions on the artists who are shaping the future of music.

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