In the world of hip-hop, there are countless debates over who the greatest artists are. From their lyrics to their flow, fans and critics alike love to debate and rank their favorite rappers. Recently, Complex Magazine released their list of the top 50 greatest hip-hop artists of all time, causing quite a stir in the hip hop community. However, one Compton rapper was not happy with the list and decided to take matters into his own hands.
Kendrick Lamar, known for his thought-provoking lyrics and innovative flow, is no stranger to receiving accolades and praise for his talent. However, when he saw Complex’s list, he couldn’t help but feel that something was missing. The list featured some of the biggest names in hip-hop, from Tupac Shakur to Jay-Z, but Kendrick felt that it didn’t accurately represent the diversity and impact of the genre.
So, he decided to create his own list, showcasing the artists who have influenced him and shaped his career. The list, titled “Top 10 Greatest Hip-Hop Artists of All Time, Chosen by Kendrick Lamar,” was shared on his Instagram and instantly gained attention from fans and media outlets.
The first artist on Kendrick’s list was Tupac Shakur, with whom he shares a deep connection. In an interview with Complex, Kendrick even stated that he feels like he carries Tupac’s legacy with him. Other artists on the list included Notorious B.I.G., Nas, and Jay-Z, all of whom Kendrick has cited as inspirations in his music.
But what truly set Kendrick’s list apart from Complex’s was the inclusion of lesser-known artists who have had a significant impact on the genre. One such artist was MC Lyte, a pioneer of female empowerment in hip-hop. Kendrick also included his fellow Compton rapper, Dr. Dre, who is not only a legendary producer but also a mentor to Kendrick.
In a world where the mainstream media often overlooks the contributions of women and underground artists, Kendrick’s list shines a light on the diverse and vibrant landscape of hip-hop. It also showcases the importance of acknowledging and paying homage to those who came before and laid the foundation for the genre.
Kendrick’s list was not just about putting his personal favorites at the top; it was a deliberate and thoughtful selection of artists who have shaped and elevated hip-hop to where it is today. It was a reminder that the genre is not just about money and fame, but about the art and the culture that it represents.
In a statement to Rolling Stone, Kendrick said, “I wanted to challenge the idea of what a list, the idea of a ranked list, really means. It’s more of an ode to the artists that have inspired me.” And that is precisely what Kendrick’s list did. It paid tribute to the artists who have paved the way for him and other artists to push the boundaries and break barriers in hip-hop.
Fans and fellow artists were quick to applaud Kendrick for his list, with many praising his inclusivity and diverse selection. It also sparked conversations about the validity of such lists and the importance of acknowledging the contributions of all artists in the genre.
Kendrick’s list also serves as a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to ranking the greatest hip-hop artists. Each person’s list will be different, influenced by their personal experiences and connections to the music. And that is what makes hip-hop such a powerful and ever-evolving genre.
In the end, Kendrick’s list was not just a response to Complex’s list but a celebration of hip-hop and all the artists who have elevated it. It was a reminder that the greatness of hip-hop cannot be contained in a numbered list, and it will continue to thrive and evolve as long as there are artists like Kendrick Lamar who continue to push the boundaries.
