Top 50 Most Popular 80s Rappers

Eric B. and Rakim stand as one of the most iconic and influential duos in hip-hop history, especially during the 1980s. Emerging from their beginnings as disc jockeys, the pair quickly rose to fame through their pioneering sound and sophisticated lyricism.

Their smooth delivery and mellow flows captivated fans, and their landmark debut album, "Paid In Full," soared to number 8 on the Top Black Albums chart in 1987, cementing their status in the genre.

Rakim's innovative rhyme schemes and complex lyrical style revolutionized hip-hop, creating a clear divide in the genre's evolution: there was hip-hop before Rakim, and hip-hop after. His mastery made intricate, multisyllabic rhymes and advanced flows the new standard in rap music.

Given their immense influence, many consider Rakim the most impactful MC of all time. The duo's legacy was further solidified when Rolling Stone ranked Eric B. & Rakim at number 5 on their prestigious list of the 20 Greatest Duos of All Time.

Queen Latifah has blazed a trail as both a celebrated actress and an influential musician, earning widespread recognition as the "Queen of Rap." Renowned for her commanding presence and impact on music, she stands out as a pioneering female artist in the hip-hop scene.

Latifah began her career as a beatboxer with Ladies Fresh and as a key member of the groundbreaking Flavor Unit. Her dynamic debut single, "Wrath of My Madness," released in the late 1980s, quickly propelled her into the spotlight.

Among her many hits, "U.N.I.T.Y." stands out for its bold criticism of misogyny in hip-hop culture and remains a defining anthem. Since the early 2000s, Queen Latifah has further demonstrated her versatility by embracing soul and jazz elements in her music, solidifying her place as a multifaceted artist.

Big Daddy Kane stood shoulder to shoulder with Rakim during the 1980s, playing a crucial role in the evolution of hip-hop. While Rakim transformed rhyme schemes and lyricism, Kane matched him with his innovative flow, laying the groundwork for lyrical sophistication in rap.

Kane's magnetic blend of razor-sharp punchlines, undeniable charisma, and captivating stage presence set him apart. His skills sparked fierce debates, with many considering him the only true contender who could rival Rakim's dominance during the era.

It's no wonder that future Brooklyn icons like Jay-Z and The Notorious B.I.G counted him among their biggest inspirations. As a complete artist and trailblazer, Big Daddy Kane remains one of hip-hop’s all-time greats.

LL Cool J, short for Ladies Love Cool James, emerged as a captivating force in the 1980s rap scene. At just 16, he began recording demo tapes in his grandparents' home, showcasing his innovative style and determination early on.

His debut single, "I Need a Beat," marked Def Jam's first official release and firmly established LL Cool J as a trailblazer in new school hip-hop. However, it was his second album, Bigger and Deffer, that truly catapulted him to stardom and solidified his place in music history.

LL Cool J’s appeal was unmatched; he resonated with both female fans and hardcore hip-hop enthusiasts, skillfully bridging the gap between mainstream success and street credibility. His dynamic sound and charisma made him an icon of the era.

Doug E. Fresh, famously known as the "Human Beat Box," is celebrated as a trailblazer in the art of American beatboxing. Renowned for his ability to craft complex rhythms and sounds using only his voice and throat, he played a vital role in shaping the genre's sonic identity during the 1980s.

Much of his early acclaim came alongside his partner Slick Rick, especially with the release of the iconic "La Di-Da-Di" in 1985, featured as the B-side to "The Show." Both songs have since attained legendary status, recognized as timeless hip-hop classics that influenced generations of artists.

Beyond music, Fresh is committed to community health and well-being. He is a member of the Church of Scientology and the founder of Hip Hop Public Health, an organization dedicated to inspiring positive lifestyle changes through the power of hip-hop culture.

Run-D.M.C. stands as one of the most influential and pioneering rap groups in history. While their straightforward rhyme schemes often associate them with the old-school rap genre, their impact on hip-hop goes far beyond simplicity.

The release of iconic singles like "It’s Like That" and "Sucker M.C.'s" marked a pivotal shift in rap, ushering in a new era that quickly overshadowed earlier acts. Their rapid rise to stardom redefined what was possible in the genre.

Throughout the 1980s, Run-D.M.C. released four groundbreaking albums, each one pushing boundaries and continually transforming the landscape of hip-hop with their innovative sound and bold presence.

Slick Rick may not have released the most music in the '80s, but his unique sound left an unforgettable mark on hip-hop. In 1985, the classic track "La Di Da Di" launched him into the spotlight, dominating radio and live performances long before his debut album arrived.

His career soared with the release of The Great Adventures of Slick Rick. Songs like "Children's Story," "The Moment I Feared," and "Teenage Love" cemented him as one of rap’s finest storytellers and set new standards for narrative in hip-hop music.

Legends such as Nas, Jay-Z, and Biggie have credited Slick Rick as a major influence. He remains one of the most sampled artists in hip-hop, a testament to his enduring legacy in the genre.

Public Enemy emerged as a groundbreaking rap group in the 1980s, renowned for blending powerful political messages into their music. Their lyrics tackled pressing issues such as American racism and media bias, sparking both acclaim and controversy throughout their career.

Chuck D, the group's lead rapper, consistently addressed topics like racism, police brutality, drug abuse, and racial profiling with fearless honesty. His commanding voice delivered urgent truths, while co-rapper Flavor Flav introduced a playful energy that balanced the group's hard-hitting themes.

As a team, Chuck D and Flavor Flav created an iconic dynamic that captured audiences and challenged the status quo. Despite criticism and pushback, Public Enemy achieved major success, most notably with their influential 1989 anthem, "Fight the Power."

KRS-One stands as one of the most formidable battle rappers of his era, embodying the essence of hip-hop culture more profoundly than many artists today. His stage name, an acronym for "Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everyone," reflects his commitment to education and empowerment through music.

Renowned for his socially conscious lyrics, KRS-One left an indelible mark in 1988 with the release of "My Philosophy"—a song that remains a cornerstone of hip-hop’s Golden Era. His work consistently urged listeners to think critically and question the world around them.

During the mid-1980s, KRS-One made headlines by engaging in lyrical battles with notable artists like MC Shan, Marley Marl, and the Juice Crew, earning a reputation for fierce competition and clever wordplay.

Ice-T, born in New Jersey and raised in Crenshaw, emerged as a groundbreaking force in the 1980s hip-hop scene. Starting his journey as an underground rapper, he signed with Sire Records in 1987 and soon released his influential debut album, "Rhyme Pays."

He continued to make waves by releasing four iconic albums in succession, with three hitting the streets before the decade's end. His 1986 track "6 in the Mornin'" is credited with initiating the West Coast gangsta rap movement, setting a new standard for the genre.

The song's raw storytelling and style were so impactful that they inspired Eazy-E's classic "Boyz-n-the-Hood." Revered as the godfather of West Coast hip-hop, Ice-T remains one of the most influential and enduring names in rap history.

Biz Markie may not have claimed the title of best rapper alive, but his immense talent left an indelible mark on '80s hip hop. Throughout the decade, he showcased his unique style and creativity, captivating fans with his playful approach to music.

His biggest hit, "Just A Friend," released in 1989, perfectly blended rapping and singing, reflecting the heartbreak he experienced from being rejected by a woman he humorously called "blah-blah-blah." The track resonated with listeners and soared to number nine on the US Billboard Hot 100.

Nicknamed "The Clown Prince of Hip Hop," Biz Markie drew inspiration from larger-than-life performers of earlier eras. His signature blend of humor, charm, and musical talent made him a beloved figure in the world of rap.

Kool Moe Dee emerged in the late '70s as a key member of the influential hip-hop group Treacherous Three. Renowned as one of the original innovators of old-school rap, he stood out as one of the few pioneers to successfully bridge the gap to rap’s evolving new era.

When Run-D.M.C. debuted "Sucker MCs," it signaled a generational shift in hip-hop. Yet, Kool Moe Dee proved his resilience and relevance by dropping his self-titled album in 1986, ensuring his place in the genre’s next chapter.

With subsequent albums and singles, Kool Moe Dee showcased his talent for creating powerful, chart-topping tracks, solidifying his influence as a solo artist in the rapidly changing rap industry.

MC Lyte emerged as a groundbreaking female rapper in the 1980s, setting the stage for future generations of women in hip-hop. Her influence helped open doors for countless aspiring female artists during a time when the genre was dominated by men.

Her debut album, "Lyte as a Rock," immediately showcased her unique, commanding voice and lyrical prowess. MC Lyte's confident delivery and distinct sound quickly became her signature within the rap community.

MC Lyte began writing music at just 12 years old, a testament to her passion and determination. Her 1988 track, "Lyte as a Rock," is still celebrated as one of the most important rap releases of its era, and her voice continues to be sampled throughout hip-hop history.

Often hailed as the godfather of mafioso rap, Kool G Rap ranks among the most influential and formidable MCs in hip-hop history. While his signature style fully emerged in the early '90s, his sole release in the 1980s was the critically acclaimed Road to the Riches in collaboration with DJ Polo.

Renowned for his gritty yet mesmerizing lyrical prowess, Kool G Rap left a lasting impression with his dynamic performance on the Juice Crew's iconic track "The Symphony." Although lyrical giants such as Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, and KRS-One dominated the late '80s, Kool G Rap stood out as an imposing force from Corona, Queens, bringing unique energy and raw talent to the era.

Kool Keith remains a prominent figure in the annals of hip-hop, frequently mentioned among the most exceptional MCs of the 1980s. Renowned for his inventive style, he stood out not only as a leading rapper of his era but also as a pioneering force in underground hip-hop.

Despite sometimes being overlooked today, Kool Keith's influence endures through generations of independent and underground artists who have followed in his footsteps. His innovative approach has kept fans and critics alike revisiting his groundbreaking work on "Critical Beatdown."

Regarded as one of hip-hop's most enigmatic and original personalities, Keith is celebrated for his surreal, unconventional, and often mind-bending lyrics that pushed the genre's boundaries.

Many rap fans often overlook MC Shan's remarkable influence on hip-hop, remembering him primarily for his lyrical battle with KRS-One. Yet, his status as a pioneering Queensbridge legend cannot be overstated.

Shan's distinctive high-pitched and gritty delivery left a lasting mark on emerging artists from the tough Queensbridge housing projects. Rappers like Nas have openly credited MC Shan’s innovative style as a major inspiration for their own approach to rap.

MC Shan is perhaps best known for the iconic track "The Bridge," which not only became an anthem but also opened doors for countless artists who followed. Through his music, he empowered others to find their authentic voices and leave their own mark on the genre.

Kurtis Blow made history as the first hip-hop artist to sign with a major record label, setting a powerful precedent for the genre. His groundbreaking track, "The Breaks," achieved another milestone by being the first rap song to earn gold certification.

Widely regarded as one of the most influential rappers of all time, Kurtis Blow was a pioneering figure in old-school hip-hop. His innovative style and early chart successes helped establish the foundation on which future generations of rappers would build.

Although his debut album made a significant impact and brought him into the spotlight, Blow faced challenges in maintaining his popularity throughout the remainder of the 1980s.

Salt-N-Pepa stand among the most influential female rap groups in history, rising to fame during an era when hip-hop often struggled for recognition within the mainstream music industry. Their bold style and lyrical confidence set them apart from their peers. 

The success of the group paved the way for future generations of female rappers, helping women to earn respect and visibility in the genre. Their debut single, "The Showstoppa," garnered local attention in New York, but it was their first album, Hot, Cool & Vicious, that became a landmark release in 1980s rap. 

With the hit single "Push It," Salt-N-Pepa earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Performance, shattering barriers and making history as the first female rap act to go gold and platinum. 

Some artists develop their rap skills over time, but Roxanne Shante was truly born for the stage. At just 14, she recorded "Roxanne’s Revenge" with Cold Chillin' producer Tyrone Williams, DJ Mr. Magic, and Marley Marl, marking the start of a remarkable journey.

The track catapulted her to instant stardom, leading her to join the renowned Juice Crew shortly afterward. She released her debut album, "Bad Sister," in 1989, officially launching one of hip-hop’s most iconic careers.

In an era when female rappers faced significant discrimination, this fierce Queensbridge MC broke barriers and proved she could stand toe-to-toe with her male counterparts, leaving an indelible mark on hip-hop history.

A Tribe Called Quest stands as a trailblazer in alternative hip-hop, leaving a lasting impact on both hip-hop and R&B artists throughout their influential career. Their groundbreaking debut album, People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm, received critical acclaim and solidified their place in music history.

Famous for their innovative rap style, the group seamlessly combined smooth, insightful lyrics with the soulful rhythms of jazz. Iconic tracks such as "Bonita Applebum" and "Can I Kick It?" became standout hits, helping to define their distinct sound and propel them to widespread popularity.

Fans of rap must be aware of the fact that Ice Cube has been around for many years. However, they also must know that he first started with a group called N. W. A., which stood for N*ggas With Attitude. Credited with being one of the very first groups to bring "gangsta rap" to the genre, the N. W. A. composed tracks that strived to tell tough stories about living life and surviving in the streets of Compton.

One of the group's most memorable and, yet, controversial hits was their song "Fuk Da Police." Dropped in 1988, it addressed issues of police brutality and racial profiling, which, unfortunately, continue to be relevant issues in the contemporary world.

One of the lead rappers in the N. W. A. group, Eazy-E was best known and appreciated for his raw lyrics and unique voice. His solo album "Eazy-Duz-It" had a track of the same name, which advanced to number 41 on the US Billboard Top 100 charts.

Born and raised in Compton, California, he is often referred to as the "Godfather of Gangsta Rap". However, his unfortunate death in 1995 ended his life much too soon. His album, Straight Outta Compton, along with other members of the N. W. A., was released in 1988 and is now ranked among the greatest and most influential albums.

Best known for their eclectic sampling and quirky lyrics, the De La Soul trio contributed to the expansion of jazz-infused rap and an alternative sound during the '80s. Their innovative samples and precise lyrical delivery went on to connect massively with their listeners.

Their most notable hit was the 1989 song "Me, Myself & I", which was a piece about being oneself in a world that loves to stereotype one and all at all times.

De La Soul, which is the second-longest-standing Native Tongues group, won a Grammy for their collaboration with Gorillaz on their single "Feel Good Inc" in 2006.

This hip-hop group from New York City was formed in 1978 and comprised members of the experimental hardcore punk band the Young Aborigines. After one of the members, Shatan, left in 1981, the band took a call to change their name to Beastie Boys.

Most of their songs mixed rap and rock, similar to how Run-D. M. C. did at the time. One of their most popular songs was "Fight For Your Right", which was released in 1986.

It went on to hit number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and gained the group some loyal listeners. The Beastie Boys made a full transition to hip-hop after having achieved success with the 1983 comedy hip-hop single "Cooky Puss".

The Sugarhill Gang is credited with inspiring several artists to weave together meaningful words and melodically deliver them during the '80s. This they were able to do following the release of the rap song, "Rapper's Delight".

Even though the number was their only hit in the United States of America, it did manage to fetch the group worldwide attention. While it hit number 36 on the US chart, it went to number four on the US R&B charts.

However, "Rapper's Delight" didn't just stop there as it reached the number one ranking on the Canadian charts, number two in the Netherlands and Switzerland, and number three in The UK, respectively.

Make way for Grandmaster Flash, who is credited with creating a DJ technique called the Quick Mix Theory. With his group, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five, he delivered several rap hits in the early '80s.

Their song, "The Message", talked about living in poverty in the ghetto and struggling to provide for your beloved family. The song rose to prominence courtesy of its electro sound and memorable catchphrases.

Needless to say, Grandmaster Flash soon cemented his place as one of the best '80s rappers, primarily because of his focus on social issues.

Coming from West Dallas, Texas, The D. O. C made a name for himself in Los Angeles by playing a foundational role in future West Coast record labels like Ruthless and Death Row.

While he started his journey by serving as a writer on N. W. A.'s Straight Outta Compton and Eazy-E's Eazy-Duz-It, he made his solo debut with No One Can Do It Better in 1989.

Thriving on the Dallas rapper's super-lyrical style and Dre's funky production, the album went on to become one of the best rap releases of the '80s. Unfortunately for the artist, a near-fatal car accident crushed his voice box, following which his rapping career was never the same.

Be that as it may, The D. O. C. continued to make his presence felt on the West Coast rap scene by contributing lyrics to Dre's The Chronic and Snoop Dogg's Doggystyle.

Before the talented Will Smith transformed himself into a Hollywood star and gained fame for his cinematic achievements, he was one of the biggest and most popular rappers; particularly during the 1980s.

He and DJ Jazzy Jeff chanced upon each other at a house party in 1985 and teamed up soon enough to release their debut single "Girls Ain't Nothing but Trouble", whose success helped them sign a deal with Jive Records.

By 1987, the duo were on their first major tour with the likes of Run-D. M. C. and Public Enemy. Expectedly, they continued to churn out one hit single after another and even won the first Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance in 1989.

Often referred to as PRT by its fans, Poor Righteous Teachers is a socially and politically conscious hip-hop group from Trenton, New Jersey that was founded in 1989. They had a unique style and their musical content was inspired by the teachings of the Nation of Gods and Earths.

The members of the group, who grew up in New Jersey, released their first album "Holy Intellect" in 1989. Its track, "Rock Dis Funky Joint" performed really well following the release of the album.

Not only did the song reach number four on the Hot Rap Singles chart but it also went to the number 17 spot on the Hot R&B Singles chart.

Long Island rap duo EPMD's debut album, Strictly Business, was a revelation to the hip-hop world when it was dropped in 1988. Their members, Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith, ensured to transform their production into richer and funkier soundscapes; something that wasn't really seen at the time.

While their rhymes weren't exactly slick or technical, their everyday workingman monotone did manage to fit the production rather well. The duo had a harder street edge and were quite funky.

Therefore, when we discuss the best rappers of the '80s, we have to mention Erick and Parrish Making Dollars (EPMD).

While he may have gone by the name of Too Short, this rapper and record producer took long strides as he became famous in the West Coast hip-hop scene in the late 1980s, all thanks to his lyrics based on topics such as pimping, promiscuity, drug culture, and street survival.

The buzz around him started to gain momentum after he released an indie-label album in 1983. Thriving on his sound, which was a combination of simple drum beats and funk riffs, he released Born to Mack in 1988.

It went gold in no time and established him in the true sense of the word.

A lot many of you consider MC Hammer to be pretty much a one-hit-wonder, but it is difficult to deny that he has been hailed as an innovator of pop-rap and was, in fact, the first hip-hop artist to achieve platinum status with an album.

While those who heard "U Can’t Touch This" can never forget how it must have felt the first time, what, however, is also worth mentioning is his trademark style that included OTT dance moves.

Add to that the fact that those iconic "Hammer pants" were simply unmissable, to say the least. Hammer is known to have collaborated with several esteemed artists such as Tupac Shakur, Tha Dogg Pound, and Big Daddy Kane.

Tone Loc rose to fame following the release of his debut album, Lōc-ed After Dark, in January 1989. Known for his raspy voice, some of his biggest hit songs were "Wild Thing" and "Funky Cold Medina", for which he was even nominated for a Grammy Award.

The artist, who is known to have faced several legal issues, featured in "We're All in the Same Gang" as well, which was a collaborative single by the West Coast Rap All-Stars.

Currently, he is among the list of performers on the I Love the 90s Tour, which has gone on to perform on stage globally since April 2016.

The Fat Boys, who were known originally as the Disco 3, emerged in the early 1980s. They originally comprised Mark "Prince Markie Dee" Morales, Damon "Kool Rock-Ski" Wimbley, and Darren "Buff Love" Robinson.

The self-deprecating trio managed to bring a decent amount of humour to the genre of rap, which was populated with compositions that were mostly socially or politically conscious. Credited with bringing beatboxing to prominence, the trio opened doors for beatboxers like Biz Markie and Doug E. Fresh. Add to that the fact that The Fat Boys were one of the first rap groups to release full-length rap albums.

This hip-hop group from Miami, Florida met with its greatest commercial success from the late 1980s to the early 1990s. They were able to make waves across the United States of America courtesy of the sexually explicit content in their songs, particularly on their 1989 album As Nasty as They Wanna Be.

Seen as a main fixture in the Miami hip-hop scene, the group released its first single, "Revelation", on its own label "Fresh Beat Records" in 1984. However, it was their second album, Move Somethin', which was certified Gold.

It featured the singles "Move Somethin'" and "Do Wah Diddy Diddy", which became famous towards the end of the decade. 2 Live Crew didn't let the momentum they had found cease as their third album, As Nasty as They Wanna Be, also went on to become their most successful yet.

This Jamaican-born American rapper, record producer, and actor was the leader of Heavy D & the Boyz. While the group flourished in the '90s, Heavy D performed a guest rap on Janet Jackson's hit single "Alright" in 1989.

It was the earliest example of his rap appearances in pop numbers. Heavy D & the Boyz were one of the first groups to be signed to Uptown Records, with Heavy D serving as both the frontman and only rapper.

Their debut album, Living Large, was released in 1987 and went on to become a commercial hit. The artist has also been seen performing in the 1999 drama film, The Cider House Rules.

Boogie Down Productions (BDP) was an American hip-hop group which was credited with pioneering the fusion of dancehall reggae and hip-hop music. It was originally composed of KRS-One, D-Nice, and DJ Scott La Rock.

However, the lattermost unfortunately murdered just five months after the release of the group's debut album, Criminal Minded. The album contained descriptions of life in the South Bronx during the late 1980s.

Needless to say, it set the stage for what would eventually go on to be termed gangsta rap. Also, we must add that the group derives its name from a nickname for the South Bronx section of New York City.

Jungle Brothers are an American hip-hop trio whose work is thought to have paved the way for De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest. Comprising Michael Small (Mike Gee), Nathaniel Hall (Afrika Baby Bam), and Sammy Burwell (DJ Sammy B), they were known for their ear-pleasing blending of jazz, hip-hop, and house styles.

The group released its debut album Straight Out The Jungle in 1988 and was the first one to collaborate with a house-music producer. Sooner than later, they were signed by Warner Bros. Records, with whom they decided to release Done By the Forces of Nature in late 1989.

This hip-hop group from New York was notable for being one of the first successful interracial hip-hop groups of its time. It comprised MC Serch, Pete Nice, and DJ Richie Rich.

It's been reported that Serch reportedly attempted to join the fellow New York-based hip-hop group Beastie Boys, but was unsuccessful in his attempt. Be that as it may, 3rd Bass produced two studio albums initially in their career, both of which were certified gold by the RIAA.

That said, after having signed with Def Jam Records, they inherited the label's rivalry with Beastie Boys.

Comprising Texas record producer DJ Premier and Massachusetts rapper Guru, Gang Starr were a hip-hop duo that were based in Brooklyn throughout their career. They reached the absolute pinnacle of their musical journey in the late 1980s, and are, in fact, considered to be among the finest MC and producer duos in the history of hip-hop.

Guru suffered a heart attack, went into a coma, and passed away at the age of 48 In February 2010. However, he will always be acknowledged for creating hits like "Mass Appeal", "Take It Personal", and "Full Clip".

This hip-hop group was founded by Speech and Headliner as an Afrocentric alternative to the gangsta rap popular in the late 1980s. After having been formed in Atlanta in 1988, they released their debut album, 3 Years, 5 Months and 2 Days in the Life Of..., which went on to become the top-selling album in the Village Voice's 1992 Pazz and Jop Critic's Poll, as well as in The Wire's 1992 Critic's choice.

The group flourished in the true sense of the word in the '90s. Not only did they win two Grammy Awards in 1993 but they were also named Band of the Year by Rolling Stone.

Also, their debut album had sold over 6 million copies worldwide by then. Filmmaker Spike Lee approached Arrested Development to compose a song for his biopic based on the life of Malcolm X.

This hip-hop group from Harlem, New York City was the first one to sign with Capitol Records. They had a successful single called "Fly Girl" in 1985, following which they released two successful albums as well.

The group was made up of William "Boogie Knight" Stroman, Joe "Romeo J. D." Malloy, and Rudy "Lil' Rahiem" Sheriff. However, they called it a day after Sheriff decided to leave them in 1988.

That said, Boogie Boys were veterans in sampling using high-end systems such as the Synclavier, the Fairlight, an Emulator, and the DKI Synergy synthesizer.

Roger McBride, better known by his stage name King T, was one of the first artists to emerge from Compton. Today, the place is renowned for having produced a ton of the world's greatest hip-hop acts.

The artist signed with Capitol Records and released his debut album Act A Fool in 1988. Towards the late 1980s and early 1990s, he was seen collaborating with producer DJ Pooh. King T is the CEO of his own record label, King T Inc.

Another hip-hop group from The Bronx, New York to make it to our piece is Funky 4 + 1. Comprising Jazzy Jeff, Sharon Green, DJ Breakout, Guy Williams, Keith Keith, The Voice of KK, and Rodney Stone, they were the first hip-hop group to receive a record deal.

Aside from being the first hip-hop group to perform on television, they also gained fame for being the first notable group to have a woman MC, Sha-Rock. Their song, "That's The Joint", was ranked number 41 on VH1's 100 Greatest Songs of Hip Hop in 2008.

Born and raised in Brooklyn to an Afro-Jamaican father and Indo-Jamaican mother, Special Ed is a rapper and producer who released his debut album at the young age of 17.

He is best known for the songs "I Got It Made", "Think About It", and "I'm the Magnificent"; all three of which were a part of his first album, Youngest in Charge.

Youngest in Charge sold over half a million copies at the time of its release. That being said, Ed has also participated in the 1992 motion picture Fly By Night.

The Brooklyn, New York-based trio of Whodini came out of the fertile New York rap scene of the early 1980s. They are remembered for being one of the first rap groups to add an R&B twist to their music; therefore, laying the foundation for a new genre - new jack swing.

The group is made up of Jalil Hutchins, John Fletcher, and DJ Drew Carter. They released six studio albums and fourteen of their singles went on to hit the Billboard charts.

Not only that but four of the group's albums were certified Platinum by the RIAA. Whodini is credited with cultivating a high-profile following for hip-hop music and with making significant inroads on urban radio.

Chill Rob G strived to make a name for himself by being a part of the original version of the Flavor Unit collective, which included artists such as Lakim Shabazz, The 45 King, and Queen Latifah, among others.

However, he went on to sign a contract with Stu Fine's Wild Pitch Records in 1987, following which his album, Ride the Rhythm, was dropped. The album, whose music alternated between a hardcore sound and an easygoing, conversational tone, was chosen by The Source as one of the 100 Greatest Rap Albums.

Anthony L. Ray, who is best known by his stage name Sir Mix-a-lot, is a rapper, producer, and songwriter who also went mainstream during the 1980s. He is known even today for his 1992 hit number "Baby Got Back".

The artist is known to have started DJing parties at local community centres during the first half of the '80s. As the second half of the 1980s approached, he started to make a name for himself outside his home state.

His song, "Square Dance Rap", was his first single to gain some popularity outside of Seattle. Sooner than later, this song started getting picked up by other DJs to be played in their clubs and Mix got an opportunity to travel to different cities to play the same.

His debut album, Swass, was released in 1988 and by the time the '90s came, it was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. That being said, the first half of the '90s saw the rapper come up with successes like "Baby Got Back", "Freak Momma", "Put 'Em on the Glass", and "Just Da Pimpin' in Me".

Kid 'N Play was most popular in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The hip-hop duo originated in New York City and comprised Christopher Reid (Kid) and Christopher Martin (Play).

It is said that the pair chanced upon each other while performing in rival high school groups. After they decided to come together, they went by the name the Fresh Force Crew.

Aside from having excelled in the music industry, they are also notable for having branched out into acting. The duo recorded three albums between 1988 to 1991.

Chubb Rock was a National Merit Scholar when he dropped out of Brown University to pursue his musical career. He went on to release several successful hip-hop albums in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

The artist first appeared on the national scene with his self-titled debut Chubb Rock, which was released in 1988. The following year, And the Winner is... was dropped to acclaim ad well.

In fact, it thrived on the minor hit "Ya Bad Chubbs" which went on to garner air play on Yo! MTV Raps at the time.