It's time to talk about Philly rappers. When it comes to the world of hip-hop, Philadelphia has undoubtedly left its mark. Philly rappers have consistently delivered their unique brand of lyrical prowess and authenticity. In this listicle, we're going to take a journey through the city of brotherly love as we rank the 13 best rappers from Philly, each with their distinct style and contribution to the rap game.
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The 13 Best Philly Rappers to Ever Rhyme
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By: Mike McLaughlin
Published Jan 4, 2024
13. Matt Ox
Top Song: "$$$" (with XXXTentacion)
Album: ? (2018)
Kicking off our list of the best Philly rappers is Matt Ox. At just 12 years old, Matt Ox burst onto the scene with his distinctive style. "$$$" from XXXTentacion's album ? showcases not only his ability to collaborate, but also his youthful energy and catchy hook-making skills, making him one of the youngest rappers from Philly to make waves in the industry.
12. Armani White
Top Song: "Billie Eilish"
Album: ROAD TO CASABLANCO. (2023)
Next up on our list of the best Philly rappers is the talented Armani White, known for his intricate wordplay and thought-provoking verses. "Billie Eilish" from his album ROAD TO CASABLANCO. is a well-known gem that showcases his storytelling abilities and knack for making hits.
11. Cassidy
Top Song: "I'm a Hustla"
Album: I'm a Hustla (2005)
Cassidy's confident flow and clever wordplay have made him a force to be reckoned with in the rap game. "I'm a Hustla" from his album of the same name is a classic Philly anthem.
10. Tierra Whack
Top Song: "Hungry Hippo"
Album: Whack World (2018)
Tierra Whack's creativity knows no bounds, as seen in her innovative album Whack World. The entire project is a surreal journey through her artistic mind, proving her to be one of the most unique rappers from Philly.
9. Eve
Top Song: "Let Me Blow Ya Mind" (feat. Gwen Stefani)
Album: Scorpion (2001)
Eve's crossover hit "Let Me Blow Ya Mind" featuring Gwen Stefani remains an iconic track in the rap industry. Her charisma and lyrical finesse have cemented her status as one of the top female rappers from Philly.
8. PnB Rock
Top Song: "Selfish"
Album: GTTM: Goin Thru the Motions (2017)
PnB Rock had always consistently delivered melodic rap tunes that resonated with audiences globally. "Selfish" from his album GTTM: Goin Thru the Motions is a testament to his ability to blend R&B and hip-hop seamlessly. His absence in hip-hop since his untimely death is surely felt across the world.
7. Will Smith
Top Song: "Miami"
Album: Big Willie Style (1997)
Before becoming a Hollywood icon, Will Smith was a rapper who brought positivity to the game in an artistic way. "Miami" from the album Big Willie Style remains a timeless classic, and continues racking up listens and views to this day.
6. Freeway
Top Song: "What We Do" (feat. Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel)
Album: Philadelphia Freeway (2003)
Next up on our list of the best Philly rappers is Freeway. "What We Do" featuring Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel from his album Philadelphia Freeway is a standout track that showcases Freeway's lyrical prowess and storytelling ability.
5. Kurupt
Top Song: "Callin' Out Names"
Album: Space Boogie: Smoke Odyssey (2001)
Though often associated with the West Coast, Kurupt has strong ties to Philly, where he honed his craft before heading to the West. "Callin' Out Names" is a fiery track from his Space Boogie: Smoke Oddessey album, displaying his impressive lyrical skills, to say the least.
4. Beanie Sigel
Top Song: "Feel It in the Air"
Album: The B. Coming (2005)
Beanie Sigel's storytelling prowess is on full display in "Feel It in the Air" from his album The B. Coming. His raw and authentic style has solidified his place among the best Philly rappers of all time.
3. Meek Mill
Top Song: "Dreams and Nightmares (Intro)"
Album: Dreams and Nightmares (2012)
Meek Mill's impassioned delivery and poignant storytelling have made him a staple in modern hip-hop. The intro track to his album Dreams and Nightmares is an anthemic representation of his journey.
2. Black Thought
Top Song: "Thought vs Everybody"
Album: Streams of Thought Vol. 3: Cane and Able (2020)
As the lead MC of The Roots, Black Thought's lyrical prowess knows no bounds. His renowned track "Thought vs Everybody" is a lyrical masterpiece, showcasing his deep intellect and lyrical dexterity.
1. Lil Uzi Vert
Top Song: "XO Tour LIif3"
Album: Luv Is Rage 2 (2017)
At the top of our list of the best Philly rappers, we have none other than Uzi. Lil Uzi Vert has become a household name over the years with his genre-blurring sound. "XO TOUR Llif3" from his album Luv Is Rage 2 is an emotional rollercoaster that catapulted him to superstardom. If you've ever seen Uzi in concert, you know he's got hours and hours worth of hits on deck to keep fans entertained. That's not normal in hip-hop, or any genre, for that matter.
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