About How To Rap

How To Rap includes the following

  • Insights and advice from a large number of famous and critically acclaimed MCs in a wide range of styles, explaining their writing and performance techniques
  • The first complete breakdown of how hip-hop’s ‘flow’ works
  • Sections on content, flow, writing, and delivery to improve every aspect of your rapping
  • Examples from classic and critically acclaimed hip-hop lyrics, with explanations on how they’re put together
  • Special diagrams that let you see the mechanics of how rapping works and that let you write intricate rhythms and rhymes
  • Different approaches to the art, to allow you to create your own unique style and express yourself fully

 

Endorsements for How To Rap

 

"A clever breakdown of the art form of hip-hop rhymes, for anyone who is into the art of incredible raps. It's about time someone actually recognized this powerful music for its artistic ingenuity." - Speech of Arrested Development – (Critically acclaimed progressive hip-hop group whose classic debut won two Grammys and who have sold over 5 million records)

 

“I hope that it turns out good for you and I can’t wait to see it!” - Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest - (Member of A Tribe Called Quest – one of the most popular and influential groups in hip-hop who have sold over four million records, have had three albums in the Top 10 of Billboard Top 200 albums chart, and are well respected critically for their first three undisputedly classic hip-hop albums)

 

“Glad to be a part of it - books go down in history and they definitely outlive us, so thanks for making me part of history with the book”- Kool G Rap - (Hugely influential MC who has been cited by Eminem and Jay-Z as a major influence and a pioneer of intricate rapping techniques –he continues to make critically acclaimed records and collaborates with many top artists)

 

“Good luck with the book and I hope it’s a best-seller” - Fredro Starr of Onyx – (Critically acclaimed hip-hop group who sold over two and a half million records - Fredro has also starred in several movies and guest starred on TV shows such as NYPD Blue and Law & Order)

 

"Yeah, I guess somebody had to write this book, there's so many bullshit-ass garbage rappers out there these days, somebody gotta teach them how to get rid of some of that wakness. True heads check the book for the appreciation it has for us while you Fake pussy rappers pick the book up and learn." - RA The Rugged Man – (Highly respected rapper who has worked with Mobb Deep, Wu-Tang Clan and Notorious B.I.G.)

 

“Gonna be a beast of a book, I can't wait to read it!” - Shock G of Digital Underground - (lead rapper of Digital Underground who released several classic and commercially successful records and also launched the career of 2Pac)

 

“This book is gonna be crazy, good luck with it, great idea!” - K-Os - (Critically acclaimed Canadian rapper known for his conscious lyrics and incorporating various styles of music such as funk, rock, and reggae)


“When a young upcoming MC wants to consider this profession, I urge them to read and to write more… I am yet to meet an MC that did not own an extensive book collection. I think that your book is great and I wish you luck” – Wron G - (manager and uncle of Warren G and uncle of Dr Dre, as well as fourteen year industry veteran)

 

 ‘With your book… that’s pretty much like the Matrix man - you can put your syllables all over the place, all over the little areas of the beat and really line it up that way. Until you wrote this book, I never really thought it could be explained and you kinda put it into a mathematical context, which is crazy! I think that now it’s at that point where this can be explained, the secrets can be unlocked… I think it’s a pioneering move, because anybody can spit with [a basic] flow, but not everyone can rhyme like Nas. And that would be a tremendous help to MCs that have been stuck in the same old rhyme flow. I think that it’s a very valuable contribution…pick up the book, How To Rap, by Paul Edwards!’ – Esoteric of 7L & Esoteric – (Well respected duo on the popular Babygrande label, who have worked with Inspectah Deck of Wu-Tang Clan, Jedi Mind Tricks, Apathy, Celph Titled, and Outerspace. They are also prominent members of the underground hip-hop supergroups the Demigodz and Army of the Pharaohs, and Source magazine labeled their track, ‘Protocol’ one of the five best hip-hop tracks of the ‘90s)

 

  "How To Rap has something for everyone, it embodies something not only for the novice, but for the so called experts as well - a fine read indeed." – Rasco of Cali Agents – (successful and critically acclaimed rapper whose debut 12" was number one on the nationally syndicated Wake Up Show for four weeks straight. Also part of Cali Agents with similarly well-respected rapper Planet Asia)

 

 "Paul Edwards exposes some of what took most MCs years to learn, develop and execute.  "How To Rap" is a great tool to educate not only aspiring MCs but Parents, Educators and anyone who has wondered, "How do they do that".  I will use this book as a tool when teaching the students I work with." - Sabac Red of Non-Phixion – (Legendary underground/independent hip-hop group)

 

 "Any book that aspires to put the cadence and delivery of Rakim on "Lyrics Of Fury" in total perspective works for me. Definitely worth a read." - Ill Bill - (Well known underground rapper and owner of Uncle Howie Records)

 

 "I have often heard the old adage, "you have to learn the rules before you can break them" and "How To Rap" gives anyone interested in rapping that opportunity. It's frustrating to hear beginning MCs who attempt to become the greatest rapper ever before they've taken the time to master the basics (I know, I was one of them).  But once one knows the fundamentals, one knows a language and through that language, one can find one's own voice and that, I believe, is the essence of any art form." - Andy Cat of Ugly Duckling – (Successful Californian independent hip-hop group)

 

 "This book delivers to the reader, in an easy to understand format, the foundation on how to write a dope rhyme. Respect due." - Edgar Allen Floe – (Solo rapper and member of acclaimed Justus League underground collective)

 

 "Dang, I'm glad this book finally came out, cause I've been trying to figure out how to rap for 16 years and still haven’t figured it out yet." - AWOL One of Shapeshifters – (Highly praised underground rapper who has worked with hip-hop legends KRS-One, Kool Keith, and Aceyalone)

 

 "You definitely get a clear overview of the dedication toward the creation of rapping, but you must have soul to attempt to use these tools given in the book. Some artists have lost sight toward the fact that we are just the voice of HIPHOP and with great power comes responsibility" - Wildchild of Lootpack – (Popular underground rapper and member of celebrated Lootpack group)

 

"When I was coming up as a young featured artist on the Wu-Tang Clan projects I had to learn for myself a lot of the secrets that Paul Edwards gives away for free in this book." - 12 O'Clock – (One of the most well known Wu-Tang Clan affiliates, appearing on every Ol’ Dirty Bastard album released, as well as multiple Wu-Tang Clan albums and having collaborated with seven of the nine Wu Tang members)

 

 "'How To Rap' is a short cut of info that took me years to learn under the Brooklyn Zu. It's a must for the shelf of any serious artist.” - W.Gleamz – (Member of The Brooklyn Zu – the crew of the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard of Wu Tang Clan)

 

 "How To Rap grasps the difficulties encountered by many aspiring artists with remarkable prescience." - Eso Tre of Substance Abuse – (L.A. underground group who have collaborated with hip-hop legends such as Kool Keith, MF Doom, Thes-One and Motion Man)

 

 "Nicely broken down. To a lot of the rap fans who thought it was the cool in thing to become rappers, this book will tremendously help. Now I'll have to switch it up again so the author Paul can write the sequel - DISSECTING MOTION. (LOL)" - Motion Man - (Well respected veteran rapper and Kool Keith collaborator)

 

"How to Rap is an excellent, revealing read on the insights to the technical workings of rap music. I had no idea what I did was so scientific and complicated or the literary value of it (the good shit at least). Maybe if my parents read this they would realize the intellectual value of what I do, and quit telling me I'm wasting my life away. As a scholar and an educator, I highly recommend this book to any rap fans or people interested in the technical aspects of music and poetry. Although for rappers this needs to be supplemented with a forty, a blunt and a corner to freestyle and flex your skills on." - Mighty Casey - (Popular underground rapper)

 

“A must have guide to anyone who ever wanted to understand the blood, sweat and tears that can go into the art of MCing. The book lets those in the dark understand the craft of MCing as close as possible, without actually picking up the mighty pen and a pad - loved it!!” - DJ Rasta Root, Smokin' Needles Records - (DJs and produces for the likes of A Tribe Called Quest's Phife Dawg, whom he runs Smokin' Needles Records with)

 

 "It's like a playbook for rapping, it gives you the tools to operate at a high level" - Alaska, Hangar 18 – (On the popular indie label, Definitive Jux, having shared the stage with the likes of Mos Def, Sadat X, Camp lo, Talib Kweli, El-P, and many others)

 

 "How To Rap' has much heart, it takes a very thoughtful soul to write something like this, and it takes a real live emcee to read it! A marvelous milestone in our ancient storytelling tradition. At least one of these contemporary rappers will learn to mean it after seeing what it takes to groove for real." - Georgia Anne Muldrow - (Acclaimed singer/songwriter on Stones Throw hiphop label)

 

 "If only this book had existed back in the day, I might not have become a university professor. For now, though, I'll have to settle for hanging out with my academic pals Eazy A, Chuck Ph.D., and Dr. GRE - and curling up with a copy of How To Rap. Watch out world, this crazy ass-prof [associate professor] is coming straight outta college..." - Kembrew McLeod - (Professor, critic (Rolling Stone, The Village Voice, Spin, Mojo), author (Freedom of Expression®), documentary filmmaker)

 

 "Wow! Where was a book like this when I was trying to kick start my fledgling career in '91! Ha! My life might have been very different." - Egon, Stones Throw Records – (DJ and producer as well as General Manager of Stones Throw Records, one of the largest, most successful and well respected independent hip-hop labels, home to MF Doom and Madlib)

 

 "How useful, amid the rain forest-worrying deluge of books written on hip hop theory and culture, that Paul Edwards has taken a straightforward, reasoned and informed approach to discussing the actual mechanics of rapping. How To Rap looks at that art form by unknotting its components – content, style, delivery and, most intriguingly, its spatial alliance with music and beats – and uses practical examples for context and analysis. Aspiring MCs will benefit most, but there are insights and observations that will appeal to anyone with an interest in hip hop’s development."      - Alex Ogg, author The Hip Hop Years, The Men Behind Def Jam, Rap Lyrics – (Author of several books on hip-hop including the critically acclaimed history of hip-hop – “The Hip Hop Years”)

 

 "This book legitimizes Rappin' as an art form without pushing any constraining guidelines." - Badru Umi, GM, Project Blowed recordings – (General Manager of Project Blowed, a collective of esteemed underground rappers who together have sold over a million records)

 

 "A clear, coherent and organized guide to the art of being an M.C, Edwards' book is full of useful examples and concise explanations. An invaluable tool for young upstarts and seasoned pros alike!" - Jamie Collinson, Big Dada Recordings – (General Manager of Big Dada Recordings, who are home to several of the UK’s most successful rappers including Roots Manuva and Ty)

 

 "A complete guide to the art and craft of the MC, anyone who's serious about becoming a rapper should read this first. Proof positive that rap is more than just talking over music - a vital and vibrant expose of a much misunderstood art form." - Hip Hop Connection – (The world’s first hip-hop magazine and the UK’s largest hip-hop publication)

 

 "Paul Edwards' How to Rap worked for me!  My rap has never been better!" - Brycon, Topshelf Music – (Artist, and General Manager of TopShelf Music, home to renowned rappers such as Masta Ace, RA The Rugged Man and legendary producer Prince Paul)

 

 "How to rap gives an in-depth look at the art of writing and performing rhymes, and it would definitely be a good read for some of the wack MCs who top the charts these days..." - Acclaim Magazine – (Major Australian & New Zealand hip-hop magazine)

 

 "Want to be a true emcee? Then pick up this book before picking up a microphone. Never before has the artform been broken down so well." - dubcnn.com – (No. 1 news and interview site for West Coast hip-hop, including regular interviews with major rappers such as Snoop Dogg and Ice Cube)

 

 "Love the flow diagrams…dope, it had me rapping out loud." - Rodrigo Bascuñán - (publisher and co-owner of Pound magazine and co-author of Enter the Babylon System: Unpacking Gun Culture from Samuel Colt to 50 Cent - Pound magazine is the most widely distributed hip-hop magazine in Canada)

 

 "Paul Edwards' new book "How to Rap" brings a fresh approach to hip-hop lyricism that's remarkable for its depth of practical detail.  What's in a namecheck?  What are the pros and cons of certain metrical or rhetorical forms?  What are the most common structures in hip-hop's history? With numerous examples and analyses of the hip-hop greats of the past, Edwards offers both an immensely practical introduction for would-be rappers, as well as the first detailed poetics of "the pulse of the rhyme flow" in hip-hop. This is a foundational text." - Russell Potter PhD, author of Spectacular Vernaculars – (Hip-hop scholar who wrote “Spectacular Vernaculars” on hip-hop and postmodernism, teaches university courses on hip-hop, has written for hip-hop publications, interviewed major rappers as well as hosting a hip-hop radio show in Maine)

 

 "Even emcees with a natural talent will find this book extremely insightful. Anyone thinking about becoming a rapper would do well to read it cover to cover."  - Mike Lewis, Lewis Recordings – (General Manager of Lewis Recordings, home to esteemed underground rappers such as Edan and Dooley-O)

 

 "For every newbie MC who thought it'd be easy to step to the mic, ‘How to Rap’ simultaneously shatters and gives hope to those dreams." - Ground Lift Magazine - (Popular online hiphop magazine)

 

 "Intricately detailed, reading How To Rap lends almost as much credibility to a fledgling rap career as being shot or claiming to have sold drugs." - Spinemagazine.com – (Popular hip-hop website with interviews and news)

 

 "How to Rap offers an intriguing breakdown of rap's structure and science.  A definite must read for seasoned emcees and new comers alike.  Paul Edwards goes into great depth at explaining the craft of hip-hop music and offers a lot of knowledge that is worth absorbing." - Jesse Plunkett, founder of HipHopCanada.com – (The best resource for Canadian hip-hop which also covers hip-hop in general)

 

 "If you rhyme, sing or produce, read this book to improve your craftsmanship, and to open up your mind" - Jump Off TV - (Airs The World Rap Championships - the world's 1st professional 2on2 MC battle league.)

 

"Paul Edwards has defined rap’s formula in a simplistic and easy-to-get setting , no more will your Dad be telling you one drunken evening, “anyone can talk over a beat, that isn’t music” - wait till he’s sober, shove this book in his face, and watch him try as he might to understand what a ‘multi-syllable primary rhyme scheme’ is. MCs of all ages and skill level will find something useful in this book, and we might just start seeing the hip-hop skill level go a couple notches up in coming years. Well done Mr Edwards"  - Madrox, UKHH.com - (UK rapper and writer for UKHH.com, a well respected and popular UK hip-hop site)

 

"Supported by a myriad of aids, including classic lyric excerpts and the flow diagram, "How to Rap" delves beyond both the head and the heart of the emcee, remodeling the abstractions associated with writing raps into easily understandable techniques." - Format Magazine, www.formatmag.com – (Stylish urban art/fashion magazine which also covers hip-hop music)

 

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Rappers Contributing to How To Rap

Q-Tip and Phife from A Tribe Called Quest, N.O.R.E. of Capone & Noreaga, Clipse, E-40, Havoc of Mobb Deep, Cappadonna and Killah Priest of Wu-Tang Clan, Masta Ace, Papoose, Bobby Creekwater (Eminem's Shady Records), AZ, Cormega, DJ Quik, Devin The Dude, Bishop Lamont (Dr Dre's new protégé), David Banner, Kool G Rap, Styles P of D-Block/The Lox, Joell Ortiz (Aftermath Records), Guerilla Black, Spider Loc of G-Unit, 40 Cal and Hell Rell of Dipset, R.A. The Rugged Man, Lady Of Rage, Remy Ma of Terror Squad, Slum Village, K-OS, Lord Jamar of Brand Nubian, O.C. of DITC, MC Shan, Del The Funky Homosapien of Gorillaz and Hieroglyphics, Steele of Smif N Wessun, Buckshot of Black Moon, Sean Price & Rock of Heltah Skeltah and Boot Camp Clik, Shock G of Digital Underground, Rampage of Flipmode Squad, The Federation, Bootie Brown and Imani of The Pharcyde, Fredro Starr of Onyx, Planet Asia, Gift Of Gab of Blackalicious, Big Pooh of Little Brother, MURS of Living Legends, Ill Bill of Non-Phixion and La Coka Nostra, Wordsworth, Speech of Arrested Development, Vinnie Paz of Jedi Mind Tricks, MC Serch, Wise Intelligent of Poor Righteous Teachers, El Da Sensei of Artifacts, AMG, Termanology, Brother Ali, Mikah 9 of Freestyle Fellowship, Yukmouth of The Luniz, Lateef of Latyrx, Zion I, Omar Cruz, Wildchild of Lootpack, Esoteric of 7L & Esoteric, One Be Lo of Binary Star, Cage, Brother J of X-Clan, Lifesavas, Akir, Mighty Casey, 2Mex of Visionaries, Mr Lif, Pigeon John, and Ugly Duckling.

 

A Tribe Called Quest (Q-Tip and Phife)

One of the most popular and influential groups in hip-hop who have sold over four million records as a group, as well as releasing successful solo albums. They have had three albums in the Top 10 of Billboard Top 200 albums chart, and are well respected critically for their first three undisputedly classic hip-hop albums. They have collaborated with and produced for some of the biggest artists in hip-hop such as Jay-Z, Kanye West, Pharrell Williams, Nas, Busta Rhymes, The Beastie Boys, Black Eyed Peas, DJ Shadow, De La Soul, The Roots, Common, Mos Def as well as outside of hip-hop, such as Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, R.E.M., The Chemical Brothers, and Whitney Houston.

 

N.O.R.E. (of Capone N Noreaga)

Has sold over three million records, has had three albums in the Top 10 of Billboard Top 200 albums chart, and is known for working with top hit-makers such as the Neptunes and Swizz Beats, as well as Kanye West, Missy Elliot, Nas, Ice T, Nelly, Ja Rule, Kelis, Fat Joe, Busta Rhymes amongst others. He is also one half of highly respected hardcore hip-hop duo, Capone N Noreaga.

 

E-40

Has sold well over three million records, has had six albums in Top 20 of Billboard Top 200 albums chart, including a #3 in 2006, and has had several hit singles, such as ‘Tell Me When To Go’ and ‘U And Dat’. He appeared on 2Pac’s All Eyez On Me LP, which sold nine million copies, and has worked with Ice Cube, Bone Thugs N Harmony and Too $hort. He has recently authored a book - E-40's Book of Slang to be published by Warner Books.

 

Clipse

Famous for having both albums entirely produced by hit-maker Pharrell Williams of The Neptunes (who’s produced for Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z, Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, and many others), including their hit single ‘Grindin’. They have sold over 750,000 records with their two albums reaching #4 and #14 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart respectively. They are highly critically acclaimed - XXL, the biggest selling hip hop magazine in the US, gave their 2006 album, Hell Hath No Fury, their highest review rating, ‘XXL’ only the 6th album to receive the rating in the magazine’s history. The album was also featured on several prominent ‘best of 2006’ lists, with uncommonly strong reviews from traditional rock magazines such as Rolling Stone as well as music publications in general. They have collaborated with Justin Timberlake (on his hit single ‘Like I Love You’), Kelis, Nelly, The Game, Fabolous, and Faith Evans amongst others.

 

Mobb Deep (Havoc)

Mobb Deep are one of the most critically acclaimed and popular hardcore East Coast hip-hop groups, selling over three million records as a group, as well as bringing out acclaimed solo records – their latest group album reached #3 in the Billboard Top 200 albums chart in 2006. Havoc is also a noted producer, working with many of the biggest names in hip-hop, such as 50 Cent, Nas, The Notorious B.I.G., The Game, and LL Cool J - they are also now a part of 50 Cent’s G-Unit camp.

 

David Banner

David Banner is a popular Southern rapper, who has sold over two million records and has had several hit singles, including ‘Play’ which reached #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart in 2005. He has worked with many of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Snoop Dogg, Akon, and Lil Wayne, all of whom were featured on his 2007 song ‘9mm’. He is also known as a philanthropist and actor, having starred alongside Samuel L. Jackson and Christina Ricci in the film Black Snake Moan.

 

Kool G Rap

Kool G Rap is one of the most influential MCs of all time, with Eminem, Jay-Z, Big Pun, RA The Rugged Man, and many, many others citing him amongst their influences. He is frequently on ‘greatest MCs of all time’ lists, and is featured in the Top 15 of Kool Mo Dee’s book, There’s A God On Mic: The True 50 Greatest MCs. His techniques can be seen in many of the most critically acclaimed artists’ lyrics and he is often considered an ‘MC’s MC’, as he is hugely respected by the most talented rappers. He has appeared on tracks with numerous artists, including Eminem, Nas, AZ, Mobb Deep, Busta Rhymes, Big L, Ghostface Killah, and Canibus.

 

Styles P of D-Block/The Lox

Styles P has sold over one and a half million records as part of the group D-Block (formerly known as The Lox), with their two albums reaching #3 and #5 in the Billboard Top 200 albums chart. He has also sold over half a million as a solo artist and has collaborated with Jennifer Lopez (on her hit single ‘Jenny From The Block’), Mariah Carey, Akon, Notorious BIG, P Diddy, and DMX amongst many others.

 

Papoose

Signed to Jive Records for $1.5 million, after a bidding war between top mainstream labels, he has a huge fanbase based on numerous mixtapes, collaborations with many of the top artists in hip-hop and reputation as a superb lyricist. His debut album is scheduled for the end of 2007, featuring Snoop Dogg, Busta Rhymes, Dr Dre, and Kanye West, amongst others.

 

Arrested Development (Speech)

Speech is the lead rapper of Arrested Development, a critically acclaimed progressive hip-hop group whose classic debut won two Grammys and who have sold over five million records. Their song ‘Tennessee’ is part of the The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll list.

 

The Fixxers (DJ Quik and AMG)

Duo made of up of West Coast favorites DJ Quik and AMG, who are currently signed to Interscope Records (home to Eminem, 50 Cent, and Dr Dre amongst others). As a solo artist, DJ Quik has sold over two and a half million records and has collaborated and produced records for 2Pac, Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z, Dr Dre, Ludacris, Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston, Xzibit, Eazy-E and many others. AMG is known for several classic West Coast singles and as a duo they have had a hit single with ‘Can U Werk Wit Dat’ before the release of their collaborative album scheduled for late 2007.

 

Bishop Lamont (Dr Dre’s new protégé)

New protégé of Dr Dre (who’s previous protégés include Eminem, 50 Cent, and Snoop Dogg), with a debut album scheduled for early 2008. He has already collaborated with many of the biggest names in hip-hop, such as Busta Rhymes, Dr Dre, and Warren G, amongst others. He is said to be heavily featured on Dr Dre’s upcoming Detox LP, one of the most anticipated hip-hop albums ever.

 

Cappadonna (Wu Tang Clan affiliate)

Very closely aligned with Wu Tang Clan, which is one of the most successful and widely recognized groups in hip-hop. He has appeared on several classic Wu Tang albums, being especially heavily featured on Wu Tang Forever, which sold over eight million copies, as well on two of Wu Tang’s most highly praised LPs - Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx (over one million sold), Ghostface’s Ironman (over one million sold), as well as many other Wu-Tang releases. His classic debut LP The Pillage sold over 500,000 copies.

 

Killah Priest (Wu Tang Clan affiliate)

One of the most respected rappers associated with the Wu Tang Clan since his appearance on GZA’s seminal album Liquid Swords (over 500,000 copies sold), which featured Killah Priest’s classic solo track ‘B.I.B.L.E.’. He is also featured on GZA’s Beneath The Surface (over 500,000 sold) and on Ol’ Dirty Bastard’s Return To The 36 Chambers, (over 500,000 sold). His debut album Heavy Mental is considered a hip-hop classic and reached #24 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart.

 

Spider Loc (Part of 50 Cent’s G-Unit clique)

Spider Loc is a popular West Coast gangsta rapper, and is part of 50 Cent’s infamous G-Unit clique. He has collaborated on tracks with 50 Cent, Lloyd Banks, and Young Buck, also of G-Unit, including the Get Rich or Die Tryin' soundtrack to the 2005 film Get Rich or Die Tryin'  (three million copies sold worldwide), and has an album scheduled for late 2007.

 

40 Cal and Hell Rell (Diplomats)

40 Cal and Hell Rell are both part of the highly popular Diplomats (Dipset) crew. 40 Cal is known for his battling and freestyling abilities and was featured on the show Fight Klub on MTV2, and both have appeared on numerous popular Diplomats records which have collectively sold in the millions.

 

Joell Ortiz (Aftermath Records)

Joell Ortiz is signed to Dr Dre’s Aftermath record label, and is one of the most anticipated new rappers, having been previously featured in the Unsigned Hype column of The Source magazine and was also selected as Chairman’s Choice in XXL magazine (two of the largest US hip-hop magazines). He has already collaborated with many of hip-hop’s greatest talents, including Big Daddy Kane, KRS-One, and Kool G. Rap.

 

Devin The Dude

Highly respected cult favorite who regularly collaborates with the biggest names in hip-hop such as Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z, Dr. Dre, Lil Wayne, Ice Cube, Andre 3000 of Outkast, Scarface, Xzibit, The Roots, Lil Jon, De La Soul, Chamillionaire, and Nas amongst others. Famous for his guest appearance on Dr Dre’s classic 2001 album (ten million copies sold worldwide) which lead to him being part of the famous Up In Smoke Tour, with Eminem, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Xzibit, and Ice Cube.

 

Bobby Creekwater (on Eminem’s Shady Records)

One of a select number of rappers signed to Eminem’s Shady Records label, he was featured on Eminem’s 2006 Shady Records mixtape LP, The Re-Up, which has sold over one million copies.

 

Remy Ma (Terror Squad)

Remy Ma is one of the most popular and acclaimed female MCs and is a former member of Fat Joe’s Terror Squad. She is Grammy-nominated and one of only three female rappers ever to have a #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, with Terror Squad’s ‘Lean Back’ single in 2004.

 

AZ

Has had four albums in the Top 30 of the Billboard Top 200 albums chart, Grammy nominated and known for his complex lyrics, and has guest rapped on several key releases by Nas, including Illmatic (one million sales), It Was Written (two million sales), and Stillmatic (one million sales). He is also a member of the group The Firm, with Nas and Dr Dre, their debut sold over one million copies.

 

Guerilla Black

Popular West Coast rapper from Compton, California, known for his similarity in style and appearance to deceased hip-hop legend Notorious BIG - his debut album reached #20 in the Billboard Top 200 albums chart.

 

Omar Cruz

Highly anticipated new artist signed jointly to major labels Interscope and Geffen Records. His street album, The Cruzifixion, received the highest possible rating from Scratch magazine, and he is working on his debut album with some of the most esteemed hip-hop producers such as Cool & Dre, Hi-Tek, Nottz, and DJ Khalil. He has also already collaborated with West Coast favorites The Game and WC.

 

Del The Funky Homosapien (Gorillaz and Hieroglyphics)

Del is a veteran West Coast rapper, member of lauded Hieroglyphics crew, is Ice Cube’s cousin, and is known for his distinct style, intelligent lyrics, and classic catalogue. He was also featured on the debut album of Gorillaz, with Damon Albarn of Blur, and rapped on their hit single ‘Clint Eastwood’.

 

R.A. The Rugged Man

One of the most acclaimed lyricists in hip hop, R.A. The Rugged Man has worked with hip-hop legends such as Notorious BIG, Mobb Deep, Tragedy Khadafi and Wu Tang Clan. He is a contributor to The Ego Trip Book of Rap Lists (St. Martin's Press) and Ego Trip's Big Book of Racism (Harper Collins), and has written many articles for popular magazines such as Vibe, King, Complex, Rides and The Source.

 

Lady Of Rage

Considered one of the best female MCs ever, she has appeared on some of the most highly rated and biggest selling West Coast albums, such as Dr Dre’s The Chronic (four million), Snoop Dogg’s DoggyStyle (six million), Above The Rim OST (two million) and Tha Dogg Pound’s Dogg Food (two million).

 

Masta Ace

A veteran and highly respected MC, he has brought out five successful and highly acclaimed solo albums. He is frequently on ‘greatest MCs of all time’ lists, and is featured in Kool Mo Dee’s book, There’s A God On Mic: The True 50 Greatest MCs. He is part of the famous late ‘80s hip-hop collective The Juice Crew along with several of the most highly rated MCs in hip-hop history and he has consistently put out popular and highly acclaimed releases since the ‘80s to the present day.

 

Onyx (Fredro Starr)

Fredro Starr is a rapper in the group Onyx, who have released several classic albums, as well as selling over two million records – they are best known for their hit single ‘Slam’. They have had three albums in the Top 25 of the Billboard Top 200 albums chart, and their debut was selected as one of The Source Magazine’s 100 Best Rap Albums. Fredro has also had two successful and acclaimed solo albums and is an acclaimed actor, starring in major films such as Clockers, Sunset Park, Ride, Light It Up, and Save The Last Dance, as well as appearing in TV roles on shows such as Moesha, The Wire, NYPD Blue, Law & Order, Blade: The Series, and Promised Land.

 

Cormega

Cormega is a very critically acclaimed MC known for his intricate and honest lyrics, and has released a number of notable albums which are highly esteemed. He has also collaborated with many of the most revered lyricists in the genre, including Nas, AZ, and Ghostface Killah.

 

Digital Underground (Shock G)

Shock G is the lead rapper of Digital Underground who have sold over three and half million records and released several classic albums, with their debut album being included in The Source Magazine’s 100 Best Rap Albums list. They are also noted for launching the career of 2Pac, who was a dancer and roadie for the band – Shock G produced numerous tracks for 2Pac during his career.

 

Slum Village (T3)

Highly regarded Detroit hip-hop group, who had a hit single with ‘Selfish’, produced by Kanye West and featuring John Legend. They are also known for working extensively with the late J Dilla, who was originally part of the group and is regarded as one of the best hip-hop producers of all time.

 

Blackalicious (Gift Of Gab)

Gift Of Gab is the MC in the highly acclaimed group Blackalicious, on esteemed Quannum Records. They are noted for their intelligent and intricate lyrics and music, they have worked with revered producer DJ Shadow, and they are one of the most popular groups in the independent hip-hop scene.

 

Little Brother (Big Pooh)

Little Brother are one of the most critically acclaimed recent hip-hop groups, known for their conscious lyrics and concept albums. Their first two albums were also produced by Grammy Award winning producer 9th Wonder, who was previously part of the group, and has also produced for such artists as Mary J. Blige, Jay-Z, and Destiny’s Child.

 

MURS (Living Legends)

Highly acclaimed underground rapper now signed to major record label deal with Warner Bros Records. He is known for his insightful and intelligent lyrics, and he is also still part of the Definitive Jux record label, which includes some of the most notably independent hip-hop artists. He is also a member of several acclaimed hip-hop collectives, such as Living Legends, Felt, and the 3 Melancholy Gypsies.

 

K-Os

Critically acclaimed Canadian rapper known for his conscious lyrics and incorporating various styles of music such as funk, rock, and reggae – he also usually performs with a live band. Billboard Magazine called his debut album, “one of the finest hip-hop records Canada has ever produced” and his latest album, Atlantis: Hymns For Disco debuted at #1 in the Canadian charts.

 

Brand Nubian (Lord Jamar)

Popular and acclaimed alternative hip-hop group, they are known for their socially conscious lyrics and classic status. Their debut album, One For All, received the highest rating possible in The Source magazine (one of the three largest hip-hop magazines in the US) as well as being included in The Source Magazine’s 100 Best Rap Albums. Group member Lord Jamar is also an actor, best known for his role of Supreme Allah on the TV series Oz - he has also appeared on The Sopranos, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and Third Watch.

 

O.C. of DITC

O.C. is part of the highly respected Diggin In The Crates (DITC) crew, and is known for his acclaimed debut album Word...Life, as well as being a highly respected MC, especially by fellow rappers and long-time hip-hop fans.

 

MC Shan

MC Shan is a highly revered rapper and part of the legendary late ‘80s hip-hop collective The Juice Crew. The Source, one of the top three largest selling hip-hop magazines in the US, ranked his 1988 debut, Down By Law, as one of the 100 Best Rap Albums of all time, and he is featured in Kool Mo Dee’s book, There’s A God On Mic: The True 50 Greatest MCs.

 

Boot Camp Clik (Sean Price & Rock of Heltah Skeltah, Buckshot of Black Moon, and Steele of Smif N Wessun)

Legendary Boot Camp Clik groups Black Moon, Heltah Skeltah, and Smif N Wessun have all released classic hip-hop albums, have sold over three million records together and continue to release highly respected records. They have worked with numerous renowned artists such as 2Pac, Busta Rhymes, and M.O.P.

 

Rampage of Flipmode Squad

Part of Busta Rhymes’ Flipmode Squad, Rampage is also Busta Rhymes’ cousin and has appeared on six Busta Rhymes albums (combined sales of over five million). He has sold over 500,000 of his debut solo album, as well as 500,000 as part of the Flipmode Squad. He was also featured on Craig Mack’s ‘Flava In Ya Ear Remix’ – widely regarded as one of the greatest posse cuts in hip-hop history.

 

The Federation (Stressmatic)

Popular Bay Area hip-hop group on Warner Bros Records who are produced exclusively by Rick Rock, who has produced for other famous artists such s 2Pac, Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes, Method Man, and Will Smith. As a group they have collaborated with Snoop Dogg, Travis Barker of rock band Blink 182, and E-40 amongst others.

 

The Pharcyde (Bootie Brown and Imani)

Lauded West Coast group known for their canonical debut album which sold over 500,000 copies, as well as their conscious and often humorous content. Bootie Brown also rapped on a single from the album Demon Days by Gorillaz, an album which sold over two million copies in the US.

 

Planet Asia

Planet Asia is a highly acclaimed, Grammy nominated, underground rapper and has been awarded the Independent Album of the Year award twice from The Source magazine (one of the three largest hip-hop magazines in the US). He has collaborated artists such as Linkin Park, Talib Kweli, Bun B, and Ghostface Killah.

 

Wordsworth

Well respected underground rapper from Brooklyn, appearing A Tribe Called Quest’s The Love Movement and on Mos Def and Talib Kweli’s hugely lauded album, Black Star. He was also involved in MTV’s critically acclaimed comedy sketch series Lyricist Lounge and is part of super group eMC, with Masta Ace, Punchline, and Strick.

 

Jedi Mind Tricks (Vinnie Paz)

Popular and highly acclaimed underground Philadelphia hardcore hip-hop group, they have collaborated with many of the most respected MCs in the genre, such as rap veterans, including Kool G Rap, Sean Price, Killah Priest, GZA, R.A. the Rugged Man, Tragedy Khadafi, Ras Kass, Canibus, Percee P, and Ill Bill.

 

MC Serch (3rd Bass)

As part of the group 3rd Bass, MC Serch sold over one million records as well as releasing the highly critically acclaimed album The Cactus Album, which was also included in The Source Magazine’s 100 Best Rap Albums. He was also closely involved in the careers of Nas, O.C., and Non Phixion and also hosted the VH1 reality series Ego Trip’s The (White) Rapper Show.

 

X-Clan (Brother J)

X-Clan are a highly respected conscious hip-hop group whose debut album, To The East, Blackwards is considered a classic and was included in The Source Magazine’s 100 Best Rap Albums. They have collaborated with Jurassic 5, KRS-One, and Jacoby Shaddix of the rock band Papa Roach.

 

Poor Righteous Teachers (Wise Intelligent)

Known for their conscious lyrics, their debut album was included in The Source Magazine’s 100 Best Rap Albums and is considered a hip-hop classic. They continually release highly acclaimed albums and have collaborated with The Fugees and KRS-One amongst others. 

 

El Da Sensei of Artifacts

Lauded underground MC and part of New Jersey based Artifacts, whose debut album was an underground favorite.

 

Termanology

One of the most anticipated up and coming MCs in the genre, who has already collaborated with many of the biggest names in hip-hop such as Nas, Royce Da 5'9", Papoose, M.O.P., and Terror Squad. He also has the backing and production of legendary hip-hop producer DJ Premier, who has produced for Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, Nas, Notorious BIG, AZ, and Christina Aguilera.

 

Freestyle Fellowship (Mikah 9)

Influential underground Californian group, they are known for their expert freestyling techniques and are forerunners in the sub-genre of jazz rap. Their debut album is considered an all-time underground classic and a watershed recording for intelligent hip-hop.

 

Yukmouth (The Luniz)

Yukmouth is a member of the group, The Luniz, whose debut album sold over a million copies and is known for the smash hit, ‘I Got 5 On It’. He has also sold over a million records as a solo artist, with his solo debut selling over 500,000 records, and he is known for his extensive list of collaborations with fellow West Coast artists such as The Game, E-40, and Shock G.

 

Ill Bill (Non-Phixion and La Coka Nostra)

Ill Bill is a revered underground MC who is part of lauded underground favorites Non-Phixion. He is also known for the political nature of his lyrics and is now part of the group La Coka Nostra, along with Everlast, Danny Boy, and DJ Lethal of House of Pain.

 

Lateef of Latyrx

Part of the popular Quannum collective along with Blacklicious, DJ Shadow, Lyrics Born, and others, Lateef featured on Fatboy Slim’s hit singles ‘That Old Pair Of Jeans’ and ‘Wonderful Night’. He has also appeared on two of DJ Shadow’s albums’ singles, and he is half of the highly critically acclaimed duo, Latyrx, along with Lyrics Born.

 

Zion I (Zion)

Zion I are a highly respected and acclaimed underground group, who use a mix of live instrumentation and samples, and are famous for Zion’s intelligent, positive, and socially conscious lyrics. They have collaborated with other notable and acclaimed artists such as Talib Kweli, Aesop Rock, Del The Funky Homosapien, and Gift of Gab.

 

Wildchild of Lootpack

Wildchild is part of the highly acclaimed group, Lootpack, who are signed to one of the most well regarded independent hip-hop labels – Stones Throw. The group is also famous for being produced by Madlib, who is considered one of the most creative producers in the genre and known for his work with artists such as De La Soul, Ghostface Killah of Wu Tang Clan, The Alkaholiks, and MF Doom.

 

7L & Esoteric (Esoteric)

Esoteric is one half of the well respected duo 7L & Esoteric on the popular Babygrande label. They have worked with many other esteemed artists, such as Inspectah Deck of Wu-Tang Clan, Jedi Mind Tricks, Apathy, Celph Titled, and Outerspace, and they are also prominent members of the underground hip-hop supergroups the Demigodz and Army of the Pharaohs.

 

One Be Lo of Binary Star

Part of the hugely acclaimed group Binary Star, One Be Lo is known for his conscious and intelligent lyrics, and for Binary Star’s debut album, which is very highly regarded amongst fans of underground hip-hop.

 

Brother Ali

Signed to the popular and acclaimed label, Rhymesayers, Brother Ali is known for his intelligent lyrics, agile flow, and expressive voice and he has released several critically revered albums.

 

Cage

Cage is part of the highly respected and influential label Definitive Jux, and is known for his poetic and intelligent lyrics, as well as his earlier horrorcore albums. He has also collaborated with many of the most esteemed underground artists, such as Aesop Rock, El-P, and Necro.

 

Lifesavas (Vursatyl)

Vursatyl is one third of the group Lifesavas - known for their positive and emotionally introspective lyrics and their intricate flows. They are signed to popular independent label, Quannum, and they have collaborated with several notable artists such as DJ Shadow, Dead Prez, and Blackalicious.

 

Akir

Akir is a well respected underground rapper, popular for his dense lyrics and politically aware content, as well as his close association with highly acclaimed rapper Immortal Technique. His latest album was released jointly by prominent labels Babygrande and Koch.

 

Ugly Duckling

Successful Californian independent hip-hip group, known for their humorous and intelligent lyrics, as well as their ‘old school’ influences which inform their sound.

 

Mighty Casey

Mighty Casey is a lauded underground artist from Boston, possibly best known for his song ‘White Girls’ which was in rotation on popular television station BET and was also used in the film White Chicks, a popular comedy by the Wayans brothers.

 

2Mex of Visionaries

2Mex is part of the highly acclaimed group the Visionaries, known for their positive lyrics and intricate rhymes. Their music has been featured in Warner Brothers’ box-office hit, Oceans Twelve, and the MTV feature film Volcano High, and they have collaborated with numerous distinguished hip-hop artists and groups, such as Brand Nubian, RBX, Dilated Peoples, and Brother J of X-Clan.

 

Mr Lif

Mr Lif is a highly esteemed Boston MC on acclaimed record label Definitive Jux, and is known for the political content and intelligence in his lyrics. He is also a member of the hip-hop group The Perceptionists with Akrobatik.

 

Pigeon John

Pigeon John is a popular L.A. rapper who is also part of the revered group, L.A. Symphony. He is signed to the popular Quannum label along with Blackalicious, Lyrics Born, Lateer, and Lifesavas, and he is known for his often humorous and positive lyrics.