''Hip Hop Connection'' (''HHC'') was the longest running monthly periodical devoted entirely to
hip hop culture
Hip-hop culture is an art movement that emerged in New York City, in the borough of The Bronx; Primarily within the black community. Hip Hop as an art form and culture has been heavily influenced by both male and female artists. It is charac ...
. It was described by rapper
Chuck D
Carlton Douglas Ridenhour (born August 1, 1960), known professionally as Chuck D, is an American rapper, best known as the leader and frontman of the hip hop group Public Enemy, which he co-founded in 1985 with Flavor Flav. Chuck D is also a me ...
as "the most important magazine in the world".
History
Under the editorship of
Chris Hunt
Chris Hunt is a British journalist, magazine editor, and author.
Hunt has worked in journalism for over thirty years, most often writing about football or rock music. He was editor of ''Match'' from 1993 to 2001, a period that saw the weekl ...
, the magazine published its first issue in July 1988, six months before ''
The Source The Source may refer to:
Film and television
* ''The Source'' (1918 film), 1918 American drama directed by George Melford
* ''The Source'' (1999 film), a 1999 documentary film about the Beat generation
* ''The Source'' (2002 film), a 2002 scienc ...
'' began in newsletter form. Prior to the first issue, the magazine's parent company had run a premium rate 0898 telephone information line using the same name, presented by
Radio 1 DJ
Dave Pearce. It invited MCs to call and record their own rhyme after listening to the best rhyme of the previous week.
''HHCs early issues were its biggest selling and saw Hunt bringing together a talented group of writers and photographers, including
Ekow Eshun, Malu Halasa and Vie Marshall. Future television presenter and celebrity
Normski was given his own section to showcase his rap photography.
Hunt had two stints as editor before leaving for a final time in 1993. His longtime deputy Andy Cowan took over the title in November 1993. ''HHC'' changed owners several times (Popular Publications,
Future Publishing
Future plc is a British publishing company. It was started in 1985 by Chris Anderson. It is listed on the London Stock Exchange and is a constituent of the FTSE 250 Index.
History
1985–2012
The company was founded by Chris Anderson a ...
,
Ministry Of Sound
Ministry of Sound or Ministry of Sound Group is a multimedia entertainment business based in London with a nightclub, shared workspace and private members' club, worldwide events operation, music publisher (popular music), music publishing busin ...
, the
Cambridge
Cambridge ( ) is a List of cities in the United Kingdom, city and non-metropolitan district in the county of Cambridgeshire, England. It is the county town of Cambridgeshire and is located on the River Cam, north of London. As of the 2021 Unit ...
-based Infamous Ink). HHC and Popular Publications were owned by
Music Maker Publications throughout the early 1990s until Music Maker was acquired by
Future Publishing
Future plc is a British publishing company. It was started in 1985 by Chris Anderson. It is listed on the London Stock Exchange and is a constituent of the FTSE 250 Index.
History
1985–2012
The company was founded by Chris Anderson a ...
. Future sold the title to
Ministry Of Sound
Ministry of Sound or Ministry of Sound Group is a multimedia entertainment business based in London with a nightclub, shared workspace and private members' club, worldwide events operation, music publisher (popular music), music publishing busin ...
in 2000. The first Ministry issue featured
Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey ( ; born March 27, 1969) is an American singer-songwriter, record producer, and actress. Dubbed the "Honorific nicknames in popular music, Songbird Supreme" by ''Guinness World Records'', Carey is known for her five-octave voc ...
on the front cover. Ministry tried to continue with a 'female artists only' cover policy, which had proved successful for their dance magazine but – after
Kelis
Kelis Rogers (; born August 21, 1979) is an American singer-songwriter and chef. She attended Manhattan, New York's Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, where she played saxophone and was selected for the Girls Ch ...
and
Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Noelle Hill (born May 26, 1975) is an American musician. She is celebrated as one of the most influential musical artists of her generation. Hill is credited with breaking barriers for female rappers, contributing to the popular music, m ...
– it became apparent that they were running out of suitable candidates. Ministry sold the title after one year and Andy Cowan continued to run and publish the magazine. In April 2006, ''Hip Hop Connection'' published its 200th edition, rerunning many classic interviews from its eighteen-year history.
In 2009 the magazine published its final and 232nd issue.
Readers' Greatest Album
*Pre 2000:
Public Enemy
Public Enemy is an American Hip-hop, hip hop group formed in Roosevelt, New York, in 1985 by Chuck D and Flavor Flav. The group rose to prominence for their political messages including subjects such as Racism in the United States, American r ...
- ''
It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back
''It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back'' is the second studio album by American Hip hop music, hip hop group Public Enemy, released on June 28, 1988, by Def Jam Recordings and Columbia Records. It was recorded from 1987 to 1988 in sessio ...
''
*1995 to 2005:
Raekwon
Corey Woods (born January 12, 1970), better known by his stage name Raekwon ( ), is an American rapper. He rose to prominence as a founding member of the hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan, which achieved mainstream success following the release of the ...
- ''
Only Built 4 Cuban Linx...''
Readers' Best Album of the Year
2009:
Roots Manuva
Rodney Hylton Smith, better known by his stage name Roots Manuva (born 9 September 1972), is a British rapper and producer. Since his debut in 1994, he has produced numerous albums and singles on the label Big Dada, achieving commercial succ ...
- ''
Slime & Reason'' •
2008:
Panacea - ''Scenic Route'' •
2007: unknown •
2006: unknown •
2005: unknown •
2004: unknown •
2003: unknown •
2002:
Jay-Z
Shawn Corey Carter (born December 4, 1969), known professionally as Jay-Z, is an American Rapping, rapper, businessman, and record executive. Rooted in East Coast hip-hop, he was named Billboard and Vibe's 50 Greatest Rappers of All Time, the ...
- ''
The Blueprint'' •
2001:
Eminem
Marshall Bruce Mathers III (born October 17, 1972), known professionally as Eminem, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. Regarded as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time, he is credited with popula ...
- ''
The Marshall Mathers LP
''The Marshall Mathers LP'' is the third studio album by American rapper Eminem, released on May 23, 2000, by Aftermath Entertainment and Interscope Records. Production on the album was handled by Dr. Dre, Mel-Man, F.B.T., Eminem, and The 45 ...
'' •
2000:
The Roots
The Roots are an American Hip-hop, hip hop band formed in 1987 by singer Black Thought, Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter and drummer Questlove, Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Roots serve as the house band on NBC's ''T ...
- ''
Things Fall Apart
''Things Fall Apart'' is a 1958 novel by Nigerian author Chinua Achebe. It is Achebe's debut novel and was written when he was working at the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation. The novel was first published in London by Heinemann (publisher), ...
'' •
1999:
Gang Starr
Gang Starr was an American Hip-hop, hip hop duo, consisting of Houston-born record producer DJ Premier and Boston-based rapper Guru (rapper), Guru.
Gang Starr was at its height from 1989 to 2003, and is considered a widely influential MC-and-pr ...
- ''
Moment of Truth'' •
1998:
Company Flow
Company Flow was an American hip hop trio from Brooklyn, New York City, consisting of Bigg Jus, El-P and Mr. Len.
The group was at one time associated with the independent record label Rawkus Records. Rapper/ producer El-P and DJ/producer ...
- ''
Funcrusher Plus'' •
1997:
Rass Kass - ''
Soul On Ice'' •
1996:
Raekwon
Corey Woods (born January 12, 1970), better known by his stage name Raekwon ( ), is an American rapper. He rose to prominence as a founding member of the hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan, which achieved mainstream success following the release of the ...
- ''
Only Built 4 Cuban Linx...'' •
1995:
The Notorious B.I.G. - ''
Ready to Die
''Ready to Die'' is the debut studio album by American rapper The Notorious B.I.G., released on September 13, 1994, by Bad Boy Records and distributed by Arista Records. The album features productions by Bad Boy founder Sean Combs, Sean "Puffy ...
'' •
1994:
Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill is an American Hip hop music, hip hop group formed in South Gate, California in 1988. One of the first Latin groups to gain mainstream recognition in hip hop, they have sold over 20 million albums worldwide, and have obtained multi ...
- ''
Black Sunday'' •
1993: unknown •
1992: unknown •
1991: OG Original Gangsta - Ice-T•
1990: Silver Bullet •
1989:
N.W.A
N.W.A (an abbreviation for Niggaz Wit Attitudes) was an American hip-hop group formed in Compton, California in 1987. Among the earliest and most significant figures of the gangsta rap subgenre, the group is widely considered one of the great ...
. - ''
Straight Outta Compton
''Straight Outta Compton'' is the debut studio album by American hip-hop group N.W.A, released on January 25, 1989, through Priority Records, Priority and Ruthless Records. It was Record producer, produced by N.W.A members Dr. Dre, DJ Yella, a ...
''
Readers' Best Single of the Year
2009: unknown •
2008: unknown •
2007: unknown •
2006: unknown •
2005:
Klashnekoff - It's Murda •
2004: unknown •
2003: unknown •
2002:
Pharoahe Monch
Troy Donald Jamerson (born October 31, 1972), better known by his stage name Pharoahe Monch, is an American rapper known for his complex lyrics, intricate delivery, and internal and multisyllabic rhyme schemes.Edwards, Paul, 2009, ''How to Rap: ...
- Fuck You •
2001:
M.O.P. -
Ante Up •
2000:
Pharoahe Monch
Troy Donald Jamerson (born October 31, 1972), better known by his stage name Pharoahe Monch, is an American rapper known for his complex lyrics, intricate delivery, and internal and multisyllabic rhyme schemes.Edwards, Paul, 2009, ''How to Rap: ...
-
Simon Says
Simon Says is a children's game for three or more players. One player takes the role of "Simon" and issues instructions (usually physical actions such as "jump in the air" or "stick out your tongue") to the other players, which should be foll ...
•
1999:
Canibus -
Second Round K.O. •
1998:
Gang Starr
Gang Starr was an American Hip-hop, hip hop duo, consisting of Houston-born record producer DJ Premier and Boston-based rapper Guru (rapper), Guru.
Gang Starr was at its height from 1989 to 2003, and is considered a widely influential MC-and-pr ...
-
You Know My Steez •
1997:
Jeru The Damaja - Ya Playin Yaself •
1996:
Mobb Deep
Mobb Deep was an American Hip-hop, hip hop duo formed in Queens, New York (state), New York in 1990. Consisting of rappers/songwriters/record producers Prodigy (rapper), Prodigy and Havoc (musician), Havoc, they are considered to be among the pr ...
-
Shook Ones Part II •
1995:
Craig Mack
Craig Jamieson Mack (May 10, 1970 – March 12, 2018) was an American rapper and record producer. He is best known for his tenure with Bad Boy Records, during which he released his 1994 single " Flava in Ya Ear" (1994), which peaked within the ' ...
-
Flava In Ya Ear
"Flava in Ya Ear" is a song by American rapper Craig Mack. It was released on July 2, 1994, by Bad Boy Records and Arista Records as the lead single from his debut studio album, '' Project: Funk da World'' (1994). The song was remixed with the ad ...
•
1994:
Onyx
Onyx is a typically black-and-white banded variety of agate, a silicate mineral. The bands can also be monochromatic with alternating light and dark bands. ''Sardonyx'' is a variety with red to brown bands alternated with black or white bands. ...
-
Slam •
1993: unknown •
1992: unknown •
1991: unknown •
1990: unknown •
1989:
Public Enemy
Public Enemy is an American Hip-hop, hip hop group formed in Roosevelt, New York, in 1985 by Chuck D and Flavor Flav. The group rose to prominence for their political messages including subjects such as Racism in the United States, American r ...
-
Fight The Power
Readers' Best Group of the Year
2009: unknown
2008: unknown
2007: unknown
2006: unknown
2005: unknown
2004: unknown
2003: unknown
2002: unknown
2001:
Dilated Peoples
Dilated Peoples is an American Los Angeles-based Hip hop music, hip hop trio, composed of rapper and record producer Evidence (musician), Evidence, rapper Rakaa, and Beat Junkies deejay and record producer DJ Babu. The group is better known in t ...
2000:
The Roots
The Roots are an American Hip-hop, hip hop band formed in 1987 by singer Black Thought, Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter and drummer Questlove, Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Roots serve as the house band on NBC's ''T ...
1999:
Gang Starr
Gang Starr was an American Hip-hop, hip hop duo, consisting of Houston-born record producer DJ Premier and Boston-based rapper Guru (rapper), Guru.
Gang Starr was at its height from 1989 to 2003, and is considered a widely influential MC-and-pr ...
1998:
Company Flow
Company Flow was an American hip hop trio from Brooklyn, New York City, consisting of Bigg Jus, El-P and Mr. Len.
The group was at one time associated with the independent record label Rawkus Records. Rapper/ producer El-P and DJ/producer ...
1997: unknown
1996: unknown
1995: unknown
1994:
Wu-Tang Clan
Wu-Tang Clan is an American hip hop collective formed in Staten Island, New York City, in 1992. Its members include RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa, and, until his death in 2004, O ...
1993: unknown
1992: unknown
1991: unknown
1990: unknown
1989:
N.W.A
N.W.A (an abbreviation for Niggaz Wit Attitudes) was an American hip-hop group formed in Compton, California in 1987. Among the earliest and most significant figures of the gangsta rap subgenre, the group is widely considered one of the great ...
.
Readers' Best of the 80s
Best Album:
Public Enemy
Public Enemy is an American Hip-hop, hip hop group formed in Roosevelt, New York, in 1985 by Chuck D and Flavor Flav. The group rose to prominence for their political messages including subjects such as Racism in the United States, American r ...
- ''
It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back
''It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back'' is the second studio album by American Hip hop music, hip hop group Public Enemy, released on June 28, 1988, by Def Jam Recordings and Columbia Records. It was recorded from 1987 to 1988 in sessio ...
'' •
Best Single:
Public Enemy
Public Enemy is an American Hip-hop, hip hop group formed in Roosevelt, New York, in 1985 by Chuck D and Flavor Flav. The group rose to prominence for their political messages including subjects such as Racism in the United States, American r ...
-
Rebel Without A Pause
"Rebel Without a Pause" is a song by hip hop group Public Enemy and the first single from their 1988 album, ''It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back''. The title is a reference to the 1955 film '' Rebel Without a Cause''.
History
"Rebel Wi ...
•
Best Group:
Public Enemy
Public Enemy is an American Hip-hop, hip hop group formed in Roosevelt, New York, in 1985 by Chuck D and Flavor Flav. The group rose to prominence for their political messages including subjects such as Racism in the United States, American r ...
•
Best Rapper:
Chuck D
Carlton Douglas Ridenhour (born August 1, 1960), known professionally as Chuck D, is an American rapper, best known as the leader and frontman of the hip hop group Public Enemy, which he co-founded in 1985 with Flavor Flav. Chuck D is also a me ...
•
Best DJ: Cash Money •
Best British Artist:
MC Duke •
Best Record Label:
Def Jam
Def Jam Recordings (also simply known as Def Jam) is an American multinational record label owned by Universal Music Group. It is based in Manhattan, New York City, specializing predominantly in hip hop, contemporary R&B, soul and pop.
The ...
•
Best Non Hiphop:
Michael Jackson
Michael Joseph Jackson (August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009) was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist. Dubbed the "King of Pop", he is regarded as Cultural impact of Michael Jackson, one of the most culturally significan ...
•
Most Important Human Being:
Nelson Mandela
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela ( , ; born Rolihlahla Mandela; 18 July 1918 – 5 December 2013) was a South African Internal resistance to apartheid, anti-apartheid activist and politician who served as the first president of South Africa f ...
100 Best Albums Ever
''Hip Hop Connection'' published its readers' favourite albums in its March 2000 issue. The result, wrote compiler Mansel Fletcher, was "the essential hip-hop list that beats all others straight into a bloody pulp".
100.
No I.D., ''
Accept Your Own and Be Yourself (The Black Album)'' ("Anyone into top-notch hip-hop blessed with tight rhymes and clear production shouldn't pass this by")
99.
Public Enemy
Public Enemy is an American Hip-hop, hip hop group formed in Roosevelt, New York, in 1985 by Chuck D and Flavor Flav. The group rose to prominence for their political messages including subjects such as Racism in the United States, American r ...
, ''
Apocalypse 91... The Enemy Strikes Black'' ("It marked their move away from the attentions of hip-hop fans, but was a grand gesture to bow out on"
98.
Raw Fusion, ''
Live from the Styleetron'' ("
Reggae
Reggae () is a music genre that originated in Jamaica during the late 1960s. The term also denotes the modern popular music of Jamaica and its Jamaican diaspora, diaspora. A 1968 single by Toots and the Maytals, "Do the Reggay", was the first ...
had a huge influence on their sound, while the faster beats hint at
drum and bass
Drum and bass (commonly abbreviated as DnB, D&B, or D'n'B) is a genre of electronic dance music characterised by fast Break (music)#Breakbeat (element of music), breakbeats (typically 165–185 Tempo, beats per minute) with heavy Bass (music) ...
years before it became an official brand")
97.
Westside Connection
Westside Connection was an American hip-hop Supergroup (music), supergroup formed by Ice Cube, Mack 10, and WC (rapper), WC. The group's debut album, ''Bow Down'', reached the number two position on the Billboard 200, ''Billboard'' 200 in 1996 ...
, ''
Bow Down'' ("
Cube
A cube or regular hexahedron is a three-dimensional space, three-dimensional solid object in geometry, which is bounded by six congruent square (geometry), square faces, a type of polyhedron. It has twelve congruent edges and eight vertices. It i ...
set aside his more political rap to fully embrace the
G Thang temperament that was serving his other ex-
N.W.A
N.W.A (an abbreviation for Niggaz Wit Attitudes) was an American hip-hop group formed in Compton, California in 1987. Among the earliest and most significant figures of the gangsta rap subgenre, the group is widely considered one of the great ...
members so well")
96.
Blak Twang, ''19 Longtime'' ("Wit and intelligence over innovative, soulful production that successfully brought out Tai's conscious lyrics")
95.
House of Pain
House of Pain was an American hip hop trio that released three albums in the 1990s. The group consisted of DJ Lethal, Danny Boy, and Everlast. They are best known for their 1992 hit single " Jump Around", which reached number 3 in their nati ...
, ''
House of Pain
House of Pain was an American hip hop trio that released three albums in the 1990s. The group consisted of DJ Lethal, Danny Boy, and Everlast. They are best known for their 1992 hit single " Jump Around", which reached number 3 in their nati ...
'' ("In spite of his emerald isle ethnicity gimmick, leader
Everlast
Erik Francis Schrody (born August 18, 1969), known by his stage names Everlast and Whitey Ford, is an American Rapping, rapper, Singing, singer, and songwriter who was the Lead vocalist, frontman for Hip hop music, hip hop group House of Pain. ...
was well schooled at the academy of rap")
94.
Lootpack
Lootpack is an American hip hop group signed to Stones Throw Records with members Madlib
Otis Lee Jackson Jr. (born October 24, 1973), known professionally as Madlib, is an American record producer, DJ, multi-instrumentalist, and rapper. ...
, ''
Soundpieces: Da Antidote'' ("A careful blend of imaginative and clever lyrics… over DJ Rone's
ictight production")
93.
Fugees, ''
Blunted on Reality'' ("It had a mixed reception publicly, falling awkwardly between the stools of street and alternative hip-hop")
92.
Mountain Brothers, ''Self Vol 1'' ("Turning their back on samples, the Brothers record all their instrumentals live in the studio, which goes a long way in explaining the funky, organic feel")
91.
Beastie Boys
The Beastie Boys were an American Hip-hop, hip hop and Rap rock, rap rock group formed in New York City in 1979. They were composed of Ad-Rock, Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz (vocals, guitar), Adam Yauch, Adam "MCA" Yauch (vocals, bass), and Mike D, ...
, ''
Ill Communication'' ("That they received adoration from
indie kids was hardly surprising, since ''Ill'' has fewer explicit hip-hop tracks than alternative songs")
90.
Cocoa Brovaz, ''
The Rude Awakening'' ("Reaffirmed New York as the home of innovative hip-hop in the late '90s")
89. First Down, ''World Service'' ("Sadly the public treated it with the kind of contempt only reserved for UK releases… First Down created hip-hop bohemian rhapsodies")
88.
Das EFX, ''
Dead Serious'' ("Whole legions of rappers moved in to bite their style to the extent it quickly became an irritating novelty")
87.
The Goats, ''Tricks of the Shade'' ("Full of righteous fury bursting through dynamic tunes")
86.
KRS-One
Lawrence "Kris" Parker (born August 20, 1965), better known by his stage names KRS-One (; an abbreviation of "Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everyone") and Teacha, is an American rapper from the Bronx. He rose to prominence as part of the ...
, ''
Return of the Boom Bap'' ("No emcee has ever sounded as sure of himself")
85.
Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Noelle Hill (born May 26, 1975) is an American musician. She is celebrated as one of the most influential musical artists of her generation. Hill is credited with breaking barriers for female rappers, contributing to the popular music, m ...
, ''
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
''The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill'' is the debut solo studio album by American rapper and singer Lauryn Hill. It was released on August 19, 1998, by Ruffhouse Records and Columbia Records. Recorded after the Fugees embarked on a hiatus, the a ...
'' ("Musical categories are unimportant when records are this accomplished")
84.
MC Shan
Shawn Moltke (born September 6, 1965), better known by his stage name MC Shan, is an American rapper, singer and record producer from New York City. He is best known for his guest appearance and production on Canadian singer Snow's 1992 single " ...
, ''
Down by Law'' ("The archetypal document of its era")
83.
Method Man
Clifford Smith, Jr. (born March 2, 1971), known professionally as Method Man, is an American rapper, record producer, and actor. He is a member of the East Coast hip hop collective Wu-Tang Clan, and is half of the hip hop duo Method Man & R ...
, ''
Tical'' ("The brooding darkness, eerie samples and off-key piano tones match Meth's style perfectly")
82.
The Notorious B.I.G., ''
Life After Death'' ("Even with production designed to broaden Biggie's appeal, he couldn't summon much cheer for his lyrics")
81.
Organized Konfusion, ''
Stress: The Extinction Agenda'' ("The mood had clearly darkened and with it the music, the beats, lyrics and flows")
80.
Redman, ''
Whut? Thee Album'' ("His tendency towards the lunatic is evident throughout")
79.
Styles of Beyond, ''
2000 Fold'' ("Uptempo beats with complex space-age lyrics")
78.
The X-Ecutioners
The X-Ecutioners, originally known as X-Men, are a group of American hip hop DJs/ turntablists from New York City, New York. The group formed in 1989 and currently consists of three DJs, including Total Eclipse, DJ Boogie Blind, and DJ Precis ...
, ''
X-Pressions'' ("Funky enough to make a blind man dance")
77.
2Pac
Tupac Amaru Shakur (; born Lesane Parish Crooks; June 16, 1971 – September 13, 1996), also known by his stage names 2Pac and Makaveli, was an American rapper and actor, regarded as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all tim ...
, ''
All Eyez on Me'' ("Conceived by
Death Row
Death row, also known as condemned row, is a place in a prison that houses inmates awaiting execution after being convicted of a capital crime and sentenced to death. The term is also used figuratively to describe the state of awaiting executio ...
as the biggest and grandest
gangsta rap
Gangsta rap or gangster rap, initially called reality rap, is a subgenre of rap music that conveys the culture, values, and experiences of urban gangs and street hustlers, frequently discussing unpleasant realities of the world in general th ...
album of the '90s")
76.
Gang Starr
Gang Starr was an American Hip-hop, hip hop duo, consisting of Houston-born record producer DJ Premier and Boston-based rapper Guru (rapper), Guru.
Gang Starr was at its height from 1989 to 2003, and is considered a widely influential MC-and-pr ...
, ''
Hard to Earn'' ("
Guru
Guru ( ; International Alphabet of Sanskrit Transliteration, IAST: ''guru'') is a Sanskrit term for a "mentor, guide, expert, or master" of certain knowledge or field. In pan-Indian religions, Indian traditions, a guru is more than a teacher: tr ...
's simple but devastating flow laid down their hardest lyrics to date")
75.
OutKast
Outkast (sometimes written as OutKast) was an American hip-hop duo formed in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1992, consisting of Big Boi (Antwan Patton) and André 3000 (André Benjamin, formerly known as Dré). Widely regarded as one of the greatest an ...
, ''
Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik
''Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik'' is the debut studio album by the American Hip hop music, hip hop duo Outkast, released on April 26, 1994, by Arista Records and LaFace Records. Having befriended each other two years prior, rappers André 300 ...
'' ("A
southern record that let you feel the sunshine")
74.
Wu-Tang Clan
Wu-Tang Clan is an American hip hop collective formed in Staten Island, New York City, in 1992. Its members include RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa, and, until his death in 2004, O ...
, ''
Wu-Tang Forever
''Wu-Tang Forever'' is the second studio album by the American hip hop group Wu-Tang Clan, released June 3, 1997, by Loud and RCA Records in the United States. Pressed as a double album, it was released after a long run of successful solo proj ...
'' ("There are inevitably weak moments but any other group would kill for some of the tunes here")
73.
Tha Alkaholiks, ''
21 & Over)'' ("What a relief to hear a crew doing their own thing when the rest of LA was slavishly copying the gangsta blueprint")
72.
Brand Nubian, ''
One for All'' ("This album was never likely to be forgotten in a hurry")
71.
De La Soul
De La Soul ( ) is an American hip hop music, hip hop group formed in the village of Amityville on Long Island, New York (state), New York in 1988. They are best known for their eclectic sampling, eccentric lyrics, and contributions to the evoluti ...
, ''
Stakes Is High'' ("Another rounded collection of fantastic songs that managed to entertain, amuse and provoke in equal measure")
70.
Jeru the Damaja, ''
The Sun Rises in the East'' ("Jeru was not content to let hip-hop languish in its gangsta gutter; he was determined to try and improve it")
69.
Pete Rock & CL Smooth, ''
The Main Ingredient'' ("The delivery was sophisticated and expressive without ever being soft or sentimental")
68.
Xzibit
Alvin Nathaniel Joiner (born September 18, 1974), better known by his stage name Xzibit (pronounced "''exhibit''), is an American rapper, actor, television presenter, radio personality, and record executive. He began his musical career in 1992, ...
, ''
At the Speed of Life
''At the Speed of Life'' is the debut studio album by American rapper Xzibit. It was released on October 1, 1996, through Loud/RCA Records. The recording sessions took place at Tha Concentration Camp and The Compound in Los Angeles and Amerayca ...
'' ("His mid-paced flows were not obviously
west coast, but nor were they influenced by the banging joints emerging from NYC")
67.
Common Sense
Common sense () is "knowledge, judgement, and taste which is more or less universal and which is held more or less without reflection or argument". As such, it is often considered to represent the basic level of sound practical judgement or know ...
, ''
Resurrection
Resurrection or anastasis is the concept of coming back to life after death. Reincarnation is a similar process hypothesized by other religions involving the same person or deity returning to another body. The disappearance of a body is anothe ...
'' ("''Resurrection'' is a mellow and jazzy set but is never less than funky")
66.
DMX, ''
It's Dark and Hell Is Hot
''It's Dark and Hell Is Hot'' is the debut studio album by American rapper DMX. It was released on May 19, 1998, by Def Jam Recordings and Ruff Ryders Entertainment. It was supported by four singles—" Get at Me Dog", " Stop Being Greedy", ...
'' ("The latest artist to climb aboard the
horrorcore
Horrorcore (also called shock rap, horror hip hop, horror rap, death hip hop, death rap, or murder rap) is a subgenre of hip hop music based on horror-themed and often darkly transgressive lyrical content and imagery. Its origins derived from ...
bandwagon, DMX is crazy…")
65.
KRS-One
Lawrence "Kris" Parker (born August 20, 1965), better known by his stage names KRS-One (; an abbreviation of "Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everyone") and Teacha, is an American rapper from the Bronx. He rose to prominence as part of the ...
, ''
KRS-One
Lawrence "Kris" Parker (born August 20, 1965), better known by his stage names KRS-One (; an abbreviation of "Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everyone") and Teacha, is an American rapper from the Bronx. He rose to prominence as part of the ...
'' ("The Blastmaster still shows no sign of flagging in his determination to rule hip-hop")
64.
The Roots
The Roots are an American Hip-hop, hip hop band formed in 1987 by singer Black Thought, Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter and drummer Questlove, Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Roots serve as the house band on NBC's ''T ...
, ''
Do You Want More?!!!??!
''Do You Want More?!!!??!'' is the second studio album by American hip hop band the Roots, released January 17, 1995, on DGC Records. The band's major label-debut, it was released two years after their independent debut album, '' Organix'' (199 ...
'' ("For a debut album it showed amazing maturity, especially as they were pioneering the world of live hip-hop")
63.
Black Moon, ''
Enta da Stage'' ("Over tight production, raw beats and rough musical samples came dark raps dealing with the reality of inner city street life")
62.
Da Lench Mob, ''
Guerillas in tha Mist'' ("Their murderous revolutionary ambitions
inedthem up alongside
Paris
Paris () is the Capital city, capital and List of communes in France with over 20,000 inhabitants, largest city of France. With an estimated population of 2,048,472 residents in January 2025 in an area of more than , Paris is the List of ci ...
in the controversy stakes")
61.
Ice Cube
O'Shea Jackson Sr. (born June 15, 1969), known professionally as Ice Cube, is an American rapper, songwriter, actor, and film producer. His lyrics on N.W.A's 1989 album '' Straight Outta Compton'' contributed to gangsta rap's widespread popu ...
, ''
The Predator'' ("…captured a historical moment and a musical one – few albums share that unique distinction")
60.
Main Source, ''
Breaking Atoms'' ("The overall modd is fresh and jazzy, and the
Large Professor
William Paul Mitchell (born March 21, 1972), better known by the stage name of Large Professor (also Extra P. and Large Pro), is an American rapper and music producer. Based in New York City, he is known as a founding member of the underground ...
's production is never short of inspired")
59.
Redman, ''
Muddy Waters
McKinley Morganfield (April 4, 1913April 30, 1983), better known as Muddy Waters, was an American blues singer-songwriter and musician who was an important figure in the post-World War II blues scene, and is often cited as the "father of moder ...
'' ("Funkier than a room full of the finest
cheeba smoke")
58.
The Roots
The Roots are an American Hip-hop, hip hop band formed in 1987 by singer Black Thought, Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter and drummer Questlove, Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Roots serve as the house band on NBC's ''T ...
, ''
Things Fall Apart
''Things Fall Apart'' is a 1958 novel by Nigerian author Chinua Achebe. It is Achebe's debut novel and was written when he was working at the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation. The novel was first published in London by Heinemann (publisher), ...
'' ("…contained enough hard hip-hop tunes to keep aficionados of the roughest street sounds happy")
57.
Pete Rock & CL Smooth, ''
Mecca and the Soul Brother'' ("As fine a record as
Pete Rock
Peter O. Phillips (born June 21, 1970), better known by his stage name Pete Rock, is an American record producer, DJ and rapping, rapper. He is widely recognized as one of the greatest hip hop producers of all time, and is often mentioned along ...
has ever produced")
56.
Gravediggaz
Gravediggaz were an American Hip hop music, hip hop group from New York. Known for their Black comedy, dark sense of humor and abrasive, menacing soundscapes, Gravediggaz blended hardcore hip hop and gangsta rap with horror elements to pioneer t ...
, ''
Niggamortis'' ("''Niggamortis'' had enough fine material to carry its weight of doom-laden words")
55.
Beastie Boys
The Beastie Boys were an American Hip-hop, hip hop and Rap rock, rap rock group formed in New York City in 1979. They were composed of Ad-Rock, Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz (vocals, guitar), Adam Yauch, Adam "MCA" Yauch (vocals, bass), and Mike D, ...
, ''
Licensed to Ill'' ("Every fan understood it was all a good joke while older people took it all deadly seriously")
54.
Black Star, ''
Mos Def & Talib Kweli Are Black Star'' ("Every listen to this complex but accessible album reveals new lyrical gems")
53.
Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill is an American Hip hop music, hip hop group formed in South Gate, California in 1988. One of the first Latin groups to gain mainstream recognition in hip hop, they have sold over 20 million albums worldwide, and have obtained multi ...
, ''
Black Sunday'' ("…gothic darkness and a cartoonish obsession with smoking dope")
52.
Gunshot
A gunshot is a single discharge of a gun, typically a man-portable firearm, producing a visible flash, a powerful and loud shockwave and often chemical gunshot residue. The term can also refer to a ballistic wound caused by such a discharge ...
, ''Patriot Games'' ("…warmly received critically, especially by an alternative press thrilled to find a rap record that didn't offend their liberal sensibilities")
51.
Jeru the Damaja, ''
Wrath of the Math'' ("He comes on like the spiritual heir to
KRS-One
Lawrence "Kris" Parker (born August 20, 1965), better known by his stage names KRS-One (; an abbreviation of "Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everyone") and Teacha, is an American rapper from the Bronx. He rose to prominence as part of the ...
's title of chief edutainer")
50. ''
Wild Style Original Soundtrack'' ("It captures the spirits of hip-hop's roots (c.1982) and, as such, is a must for all hip-hop fans")
49.
Gang Starr
Gang Starr was an American Hip-hop, hip hop duo, consisting of Houston-born record producer DJ Premier and Boston-based rapper Guru (rapper), Guru.
Gang Starr was at its height from 1989 to 2003, and is considered a widely influential MC-and-pr ...
, ''
Daily Operation'' ("A harder sound in keeping with NYC at the time… they're unlikely to surpass this record in a hurry")
48.
Ice Cube
O'Shea Jackson Sr. (born June 15, 1969), known professionally as Ice Cube, is an American rapper, songwriter, actor, and film producer. His lyrics on N.W.A's 1989 album '' Straight Outta Compton'' contributed to gangsta rap's widespread popu ...
, ''
AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted'' ("Ice has never been this angry or this focused since… He made a tighter record than almost everyone else in 1990")
47.
Onyx
Onyx is a typically black-and-white banded variety of agate, a silicate mineral. The bands can also be monochromatic with alternating light and dark bands. ''Sardonyx'' is a variety with red to brown bands alternated with black or white bands. ...
, ''
Bacdafucup'' ("''Bacdafucup'' has a basic attraction that's still hard to beat")
46. ''
StreetSounds Electro 1-10'' ("Any excuse to listen to the computerised beats on these records and relive those moments is a good one")
45.
Dianond D & the Psychotic Neurotics, ''
Stunts, Blunts and Hip Hop'' ("One of hip-hop's great lost records")
44.
EPMD
EPMD is an American hip hop duo from Brentwood, New York. The duo's name is an initialism for "Erick and Parrish Making Dollars", referring to its members: emcees Erick Sermon ("E" a.k.a. E Double) and Parrish Smith ("PMD" a.k.a. Parrish Mi ...
, ''
Strictly Business'' ("Their love for hip-hop as an art form was always clear")
43.
A Tribe Called Quest
A Tribe Called Quest was an American Hip hop music, hip hop group formed in Queens, New York City, in 1985,[Q-Tip< ...](_blank)
, ''
People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm'' ("A beautiful set of songs that inspired, amused and touched in equal measures")
42.
Big Daddy Kane
Antonio Hardy (born September 10, 1968), better known by his stage name Big Daddy Kane, is an American Rapping, rapper, producer and actor who began his career in 1986 as a member of the Juice Crew. He is widely regarded as one of the most influe ...
, ''
Long Live the Kane'' ("Kane's fearsome reputation is based almost entirely on this record")
41. ''
Soundbombing II'' ("A perfect demonstration of the wealth of talent at
their disposal")
40.
Smif-N-Wessun, ''
Dah Shinin''' ("A potent cocktail of compressed beats that were springy enough to get necks snapping and heavy lyrics that stayed on the right side of credible")
39.
Boogie Down Productions
Boogie Down Productions (BDP) was an American hip-hop group formed in the Bronx, New York City, in 1986. It originally consisted of KRS-One, D-Nice, and DJ Scott La Rock. DJ Scott La Rock was murdered on August 27, 1987, five months after the ...
, ''
By All Means Necessary'' ("The album's success is as much a result of its hard, tight beats as
the Blastmaster's lyricism")
38.
Beastie Boys
The Beastie Boys were an American Hip-hop, hip hop and Rap rock, rap rock group formed in New York City in 1979. They were composed of Ad-Rock, Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz (vocals, guitar), Adam Yauch, Adam "MCA" Yauch (vocals, bass), and Mike D, ...
, ''
Paul's Boutique'' ("An entire work of art that would be the bomb if it were released tomorrow and a miracle in the context of 1989")
37.
The Roots
The Roots are an American Hip-hop, hip hop band formed in 1987 by singer Black Thought, Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter and drummer Questlove, Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Roots serve as the house band on NBC's ''T ...
, ''
Illadelph Halflife
''Illadelph Halflife'' is the third studio album by American Hip hop music, hip hop band the Roots, released September 24, 1996, on DGC Records, DGC and Geffen Records. It features a tougher and broader sound than their previous album, ''Do You Wa ...
'' ("It showed The Roots were even more innovative than previously thought")
36.
The Beatnuts
The Beatnuts is an American hip hop group and production duo from New York City. Its current members are JuJu and Psycho Les. JuJu (born Jerry Tineo on December 14, 1968) is a Dominican American from Corona and Psycho Les (born Lester Fernandez ...
, ''
The Beatnuts
The Beatnuts is an American hip hop group and production duo from New York City. Its current members are JuJu and Psycho Les. JuJu (born Jerry Tineo on December 14, 1968) is a Dominican American from Corona and Psycho Les (born Lester Fernandez ...
'' ("Hard as nails, straight out of New York and as funny as it was violent… a blast of polluted air from the capital of hip-hop")
35.
Jurassic 5
Jurassic 5 (stylized JuraSsic 5) is an American alternative hip hop group formed by rappers Charles Stewart (Chali 2na), Dante Givens (Akil), Courtenay Henderson (Soup (Jurassic 5), Soup, Zaakir), and Marc Stuart (Marc 7); and disc jockeys Mar ...
, ''
Jurassic 5
Jurassic 5 (stylized JuraSsic 5) is an American alternative hip hop group formed by rappers Charles Stewart (Chali 2na), Dante Givens (Akil), Courtenay Henderson (Soup (Jurassic 5), Soup, Zaakir), and Marc Stuart (Marc 7); and disc jockeys Mar ...
'' ("A great LP conveying the feeling of summer block parties. One for the BBQ")
34.
Souls of Mischief, ''
93 'til Infinity'' ("Their mellow sound (fairly unique at the time) seemed to match the lyrics and made for a sweet combination")
33.
Dr. Octagon, ''
Dr Octagon'' ("Over crazy, experimental beats (courtesy of
The Automator) that are miraculously never less than funky,
Keith goes off…")
32.
De La Soul
De La Soul ( ) is an American hip hop music, hip hop group formed in the village of Amityville on Long Island, New York (state), New York in 1988. They are best known for their eclectic sampling, eccentric lyrics, and contributions to the evoluti ...
, ''
De La Soul Is Dead'' ("Tunes like '
Millie Pulled a Pistol on Santa' and '
Saturday
Saturday is the day of the week between Friday and Sunday. No later than the 2nd century, the Romans named Saturday ("Saturn's Day") for the god Saturn. His planet, Saturn, controlled the first hour of that day, according to Vettius Valens. T ...
' ''
ic' are as good as anything to be found on ''
3 Feet High and Rising''")
31.
The Pharcyde
The Pharcyde is an American hip hop group, formed in South Los Angeles, South Central Los Angeles in 1989. The original four members of the group are Imani (rapper), Imani (Emandu Wilcox), Slimkid3 (Trevant Hardson), Bootie Brown (Romye Robinson ...
, ''
Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde'' ("Their songs brought a smile to the faces of everyone who heard them, without ever falling into the realms of novelty")
30.
Eric B. & Rakim, ''
Follow the Leader'' ("It was never going to have quite same impact as
their debut utwould be almost anyone else's best work")
29.
Public Enemy
Public Enemy is an American Hip-hop, hip hop group formed in Roosevelt, New York, in 1985 by Chuck D and Flavor Flav. The group rose to prominence for their political messages including subjects such as Racism in the United States, American r ...
, ''
Yo! Bum Rush the Show'' ("As hard and solid as their uncompromising polemical stance")
28.
Run-DMC
Run-DMC (also formatted Run-D.M.C., RUN DMC, or some combination thereof) was an American hip-hop group formed in Hollis, Queens, New York City in 1983 by Joseph Simmons, Darryl McDaniels, and Jason Mizell. Run-DMC is regarded as one of the mos ...
, ''
Raising Hell'' ("The finest moment from the godfathers of hip-hop… This record defined its era")
27.
Eminem
Marshall Bruce Mathers III (born October 17, 1972), known professionally as Eminem, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. Regarded as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time, he is credited with popula ...
, ''
The Slim Shady LP'' ("Few albums have featured such crazy raps but retained enough humour and accessibility to be so good")
26.
Raekwon
Corey Woods (born January 12, 1970), better known by his stage name Raekwon ( ), is an American rapper. He rose to prominence as a founding member of the hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan, which achieved mainstream success following the release of the ...
, ''
Only Built 4 Cuban Linx...'' ("What really bursts from the record is the soul inside – its passion is what makes it great")
25.
Gang Starr
Gang Starr was an American Hip-hop, hip hop duo, consisting of Houston-born record producer DJ Premier and Boston-based rapper Guru (rapper), Guru.
Gang Starr was at its height from 1989 to 2003, and is considered a widely influential MC-and-pr ...
, ''
Step in the Arena'' ("
Premier
Premier is a title for the head of government in central governments, state governments and local governments of some countries. A second in command to a premier is designated as a deputy premier.
A premier will normally be a head of govern ...
always let the freedom of
jazz
Jazz is a music genre that originated in the African-American communities of New Orleans, Louisiana, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its roots are in blues, ragtime, European harmony, African rhythmic rituals, spirituals, h ...
inform his production while
Guru
Guru ( ; International Alphabet of Sanskrit Transliteration, IAST: ''guru'') is a Sanskrit term for a "mentor, guide, expert, or master" of certain knowledge or field. In pan-Indian religions, Indian traditions, a guru is more than a teacher: tr ...
let its certainty breathe through his delivery")
24.
GZA
Gary Eldridge Grice (born August 22, 1966), better known by his stage names GZA ( ) and the Genius, is an American rapper. A founding member of the hip hop group Wu-Tang Clan, GZA is the group's "spiritual head", being both the first member in ...
, ''
Liquid Swords
''Liquid Swords'' is the second solo studio album by the American rapper and Wu-Tang Clan member GZA, released on November 7, 1995, by Geffen Records. Recording sessions for the album began midway through 1995 at producer RZA's basement studio ...
'' ("The
Wu's rhyme master giving ample expression to his verbal gifts over
RZA beats as tight as any he had produced")
23.
Mobb Deep
Mobb Deep was an American Hip-hop, hip hop duo formed in Queens, New York (state), New York in 1990. Consisting of rappers/songwriters/record producers Prodigy (rapper), Prodigy and Havoc (musician), Havoc, they are considered to be among the pr ...
, ''
The Infamous
''The Infamous'' (stylized as ''The Infamous...'') is the second studio album by the American hip hop duo Mobb Deep, released on April 25, 1995, by BMG, RCA Records and Loud Records. The album features guest appearances by Nas, Raekwon, Gho ...
'' ("Darker than December and littered with off-key piano sounds that chilled the blood")
22.
Showbiz and A.G., ''
Runaway Slave'' ("Real uncut hip-hop from its opening beats to the final rap")
21.
Slick Rick
Richard Martin Lloyd Walters (born January 14, 1965), better known as Slick Rick, is an English-American rapper and record producer. He rose to prominence as part of Doug E. Fresh & the Get Fresh Crew in the mid-1980s. His songs " The Show" and ...
, ''
The Great Adventures of Slick Rick
''The Great Adventures of Slick Rick'' is the debut studio album by English-American hip hop artist Slick Rick, released on November 1, 1988. Widely considered one of the most influential hip hop albums of all time, it introduced Slick Rick’s d ...
'' ("Funky, funny and endlessly entertaining")
20.
Ice-T
Tracy Lauren Marrow (born February 16, 1958), known professionally as Ice-T (or Ice T), is an American rapper and actor. He is active in both hip hop music, hip hop and heavy metal music, heavy metal. Ice-T began his career as an underground r ...
, ''
O.G. Original Gangster'' ("The stories are great and Ice's hustler savvy and sophistication burns through every cut")
19.
Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill is an American Hip hop music, hip hop group formed in South Gate, California in 1988. One of the first Latin groups to gain mainstream recognition in hip hop, they have sold over 20 million albums worldwide, and have obtained multi ...
, ''
Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill is an American Hip hop music, hip hop group formed in South Gate, California in 1988. One of the first Latin groups to gain mainstream recognition in hip hop, they have sold over 20 million albums worldwide, and have obtained multi ...
'' ("Their styles were fresher than good sushi and the murderous stories they recounted a perfect foil to the funky tunes")
18.
Canibus, ''
Can-I-Bus'' ("His power on the mic didn't rely on lyrical conceit or crazy abstraction, just simple force and confident delivery")
17.
Company Flow
Company Flow was an American hip hop trio from Brooklyn, New York City, consisting of Bigg Jus, El-P and Mr. Len.
The group was at one time associated with the independent record label Rawkus Records. Rapper/ producer El-P and DJ/producer ...
, ''
Funcrusher Plus'' ("It's too out there, too challenging to the ears, and only with repeated listening does their obtuse funk start to make sense")
16.
Public Enemy
Public Enemy is an American Hip-hop, hip hop group formed in Roosevelt, New York, in 1985 by Chuck D and Flavor Flav. The group rose to prominence for their political messages including subjects such as Racism in the United States, American r ...
, ''
Fear of a Black Planet
''Fear of a Black Planet'' is the third studio album by American hip hop group Public Enemy. It was released on April 10, 1990, by Def Jam Recordings and Columbia Records, and produced by the group's production team The Bomb Squad, who expanded ...
'' ("Never again would truly
political rap reach an audience of this size or produce such a great record")
15.
Gang Starr
Gang Starr was an American Hip-hop, hip hop duo, consisting of Houston-born record producer DJ Premier and Boston-based rapper Guru (rapper), Guru.
Gang Starr was at its height from 1989 to 2003, and is considered a widely influential MC-and-pr ...
, ''
Moment of Truth'' ("Despite their vintage they're still making futuristic records that never rely on formula")
14.
Gang Starr
Gang Starr was an American Hip-hop, hip hop duo, consisting of Houston-born record producer DJ Premier and Boston-based rapper Guru (rapper), Guru.
Gang Starr was at its height from 1989 to 2003, and is considered a widely influential MC-and-pr ...
, ''
Full Clip: A Decade of Gang Starr'' ("…proves just why
Guru
Guru ( ; International Alphabet of Sanskrit Transliteration, IAST: ''guru'') is a Sanskrit term for a "mentor, guide, expert, or master" of certain knowledge or field. In pan-Indian religions, Indian traditions, a guru is more than a teacher: tr ...
's simple flow over
Primo's incredible beats is such a potent combination")
13.
The Notorious B.I.G., ''
Ready to Die
''Ready to Die'' is the debut studio album by American rapper The Notorious B.I.G., released on September 13, 1994, by Bad Boy Records and distributed by Arista Records. The album features productions by Bad Boy founder Sean Combs, Sean "Puffy ...
'' ("His hunger and despair can be heard all over this record")
12.
Snoop Doggy Dogg
Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. ( ; born October 20, 1971), better known by his stage name Snoop Dogg (previously Snoop Doggy Dogg), is an American rapper, record producer, and actor. Rooted in West Coast hip-hop, he is widely regarded as one of t ...
, ''
Doggystyle
''Doggystyle'' is the debut studio album by American rapper Snoop Doggy Dogg. It was released on November 23, 1993, by Death Row and Interscope Records. The album was recorded and produced following Snoop Doggy Dogg's appearances on Dr. Dre's ...
'' ("The tunes are still great and the beats bumping")
11.
Dr. Dre
Andre Romell Young (born February 18, 1965), known professionally as Dr. Dre, is an American rapper, record producer, record executive, and actor. He is the founder and CEO of Aftermath Entertainment and Beats Electronics, and co-founder of ...
, ''
The Chronic
''The Chronic'' is the debut studio album by American rapper and producer Dr. Dre. It was released on December 15, 1992, by his record label Death Row Records along with Interscope Records and distributed by Priority Records. The recording ses ...
'' ("What made the whole trunk-bumping package so great was Dre's production… Hundreds of albums since have tried to bite his style but none have managed it")
10.
A Tribe Called Quest
A Tribe Called Quest was an American Hip hop music, hip hop group formed in Queens, New York City, in 1985,[Q-Tip< ...](_blank)
, ''
The Low End Theory'' ("ATCQ came back with something harder, funkier and deeper than
their light-hearted debut. It was a brave and bold move")
9.
Boogie Down Productions
Boogie Down Productions (BDP) was an American hip-hop group formed in the Bronx, New York City, in 1986. It originally consisted of KRS-One, D-Nice, and DJ Scott La Rock. DJ Scott La Rock was murdered on August 27, 1987, five months after the ...
, ''
Criminal Minded'' ("…boasted lyrics that were always much more conscious than those of their competitors, and the beats broke new ground")
8.
A Tribe Called Quest
A Tribe Called Quest was an American Hip hop music, hip hop group formed in Queens, New York City, in 1985,[Q-Tip< ...](_blank)
, ''
Midnight Marauders'' ("Funky, funny, sweet but hard (where necessary) and utterly charming… There isn't a wasted note")
7.
Ultramagnetic MCs
The Ultramagnetic MCs is an American hip hop group based in the Bronx, New York City. Founded by Kool Keith, the group also includes Ced Gee, TR Love, and Moe Love. Tim Dog became an unofficial member in 1989. In 1990, DJ Jaycee was added as ...
, ''
Critical Beatdown'' ("The tight funk-based tracks, the thumping drums and the inspiring selection of samples are perfect")
6.
De La Soul
De La Soul ( ) is an American hip hop music, hip hop group formed in the village of Amityville on Long Island, New York (state), New York in 1988. They are best known for their eclectic sampling, eccentric lyrics, and contributions to the evoluti ...
, ''
3 Feet High and Rising'' ("…took rap somewhere it had never been before and, given the important role De La Soul's naivety played, it was probably an unrepeatable feat")
5.
N.W.A
N.W.A (an abbreviation for Niggaz Wit Attitudes) was an American hip-hop group formed in Compton, California in 1987. Among the earliest and most significant figures of the gangsta rap subgenre, the group is widely considered one of the great ...
, ''
Straight Outta Compton
''Straight Outta Compton'' is the debut studio album by American hip-hop group N.W.A, released on January 25, 1989, through Priority Records, Priority and Ruthless Records. It was Record producer, produced by N.W.A members Dr. Dre, DJ Yella, a ...
'' ("Rappers have said many outrageous things on record since it was released, but NWA said it first and did it much better")
4.
Eric B. & Rakim, ''
Paid in Full'' ("Rarely has hip-hop heard an
emcee so full of self-belief ''and'' with the raw skills to fulfil his boasts")
3.
Nas
Nas (born 1973) is the stage name of American rapper Nasir Jones.
Nas, NaS, or NAS may also refer to:
Aviation
* Nasair, a low-cost airline carrier and subsidiary based in Eritrea
* National Air Services, an airline in Saudi Arabia
** Nas Air (S ...
, ''
Illmatic'' ("Tighter than
Lil' Kim
Kimberly Denise Jones (born July 11, 1974), Those giving 1974 include:
*
*
*
*
* better known by her stage name Lil' Kim, is an American rapper. She was born and raised in New York City and lived much of her adolescent life on the streets after ...
's hotpants, there isn't a moment wasted on ''Illmatic''… every track is a classic")
2.
Wu-Tang Clan
Wu-Tang Clan is an American hip hop collective formed in Staten Island, New York City, in 1992. Its members include RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa, and, until his death in 2004, O ...
, ''
Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)'' ("Their rhymes sounded like true life tales, something
the west coast no longer even aspired to, and the passion was perceptible")
1.
Public Enemy
Public Enemy is an American Hip-hop, hip hop group formed in Roosevelt, New York, in 1985 by Chuck D and Flavor Flav. The group rose to prominence for their political messages including subjects such as Racism in the United States, American r ...
, ''
It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back
''It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back'' is the second studio album by American Hip hop music, hip hop group Public Enemy, released on June 28, 1988, by Def Jam Recordings and Columbia Records. It was recorded from 1987 to 1988 in sessio ...
'' ("
Chuck D
Carlton Douglas Ridenhour (born August 1, 1960), known professionally as Chuck D, is an American rapper, best known as the leader and frontman of the hip hop group Public Enemy, which he co-founded in 1985 with Flavor Flav. Chuck D is also a me ...
recently admitted he set out with the intention of making a record that girls wouldn't like… he undoubtedly succeeded)"
References
External links
{{Authority control
1988 establishments in the United Kingdom
2009 disestablishments in the United Kingdom
Defunct magazines published in the United Kingdom
Hip-hop magazines
Magazines established in 1988
Magazines disestablished in 2009
Monthly magazines published in the United Kingdom
Music magazines published in the United Kingdom
Mass media in Bath, Somerset