From the gritty streets of the Bronx to sold-out stadiums and Super Bowl halftime shows, hip hop has grown from a local art form into a dominant global force. These top hip hop artists didn’t just make hits – they changed the culture, shaped style, and redefined music across generations.

Below, we break down the most influential names in hip hop history, from early pioneers to today’s chart kings. Whether you’re here for old-school legends, lyrical assassins, or modern-day superstars, this list of top hip hop music artists has it all.

What Defines a Top Hip Hop Artist?

To make this list, artists had to do more than just sell records. We looked at:

• Chart-topping success (Billboard hits, album sales)
• Cultural impact (style, slang, influence beyond music)
• Lyrical prowess and innovation
• Legacy and lasting influence on the genre

From fashion collabs to acting gigs and mogul status, these hip hop top artists have left their fingerprints all over modern culture.