Popular overseas rappers. Recommended Western/English-language rappers.
Introducing recommended Western rappers!
Hip-hop, which began spreading worldwide in the 1980s.
While it’s said to have originated in the Bronx, music with a hip-hop-like vibe actually existed in Europe—which has a much longer national history—even before then.
This time, we’ve selected rappers with exceptional skill and style from across hip-hop’s long history!
Not just from the US and UK, but also from countries like Spain and France—we’ve picked artists from around the world.
If you’re digging for high-level, cutting-edge tracks, this is a must-see!
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- A 90s rapper. An artist who was active during the golden age of US hip-hop.
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- Hip-hop classics that changed history
Popular overseas rappers. Recommended Western rappers (21–30)
StrongerKanye West
This is a classic track by Kanye West that skillfully samples Daft Punk’s masterpiece and reconstructs it with heavy, razor-sharp flows.
He is often cited as one of the artists who defined the rap scene of the 2000s, and has released many works that showcase his masterful command of production.
HUMBLE.Kendrick Lamar
He is a rapper from Compton, California, United States.
He debuted in 2011 with the album Section.80 and has released acclaimed classics such as Good Kid, M.A.A.D City and To Pimp a Butterfly.
His talent is recognized worldwide, including 17 Grammy Awards.
In 2016, he was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world.
Many of his songs address social issues and racism, and he is known for his deep insight and poetic lyrics.
He has also expanded beyond hip-hop, incorporating elements of jazz and G-funk that have drawn attention.
He’s a highly recommended artist for anyone who wants to pursue the essence of music.
Worst BehaviorDrake
This is a popular track by Drake, a popular rapper who delivers his bars with high-level skills, from rapid-fire flows to slow-paced rhyming.
While the work has a cool, smoky vibe, it overflows with warmth and human touch.
He’s also known for his sense of balance—such as his many collaborations—which is a key to his popularity.
In Da Club50 Cent
It’s a classic track by 50 Cent that also drew attention for the fact that the jewelry and luxury cars weren’t his own but rentals.
The song is a bona fide club anthem—just hearing the intro gets many clubgoers hyped—and it’s also renowned as a battle anthem.
Song CryJay Z
This is a classic by the legendary rapper Jay-Z, who pushed a hardcore gangsta-rap style—without relying on sampling—to the level of pure expression.
His exceptional sensibility influenced countless later rappers, and the song’s polished perfection, which cemented his status as a true icon, is nothing short of breathtaking.
Big PoppaThe Notorious B.I.G.
The Notorious B.I.G., a figure who epitomized the gangsta rap scene of the 1990s.
Known as the face of East Coast hip-hop, his 1993 debut album Ready to Die made a bold statement at a time when West Coast hip-hop dominated the mainstream.
He produced hits like Juicy and Mo Money Mo Problems, captivating many fans with his distinctive flow and deep lyrics.
He passed away in March 1997 at the young age of 25, but his posthumous album Life After Death reached No.
1 on the Billboard 200.
He’s an artist recommended not only for rap enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in music history.
Party Up (Up In Here)DMX
This is DMX, a leading Western rapper who made a name for himself with an overwhelmingly husky voice representing gangsta rap and a powerful persona.
Although it’s a party-style hip-hop track, it overflows with his unique thug vibe, making it a standout song that has also become famous as a hip-hop classic.