Top 20 West Coast Rappers
Top 20 West Coast Rappers: Recently, I’ve had the chance to share my insights on the greatest MCs from two of Hip Hop’s most prominent cities—New York City and Philadelphia. I’ve highlighted the top 10 rappers from Philadelphia’s rich and often overlooked legacy, as well as the top 5 or 10 rappers from each of New York’s five boroughs in a comprehensive five-part series. Additionally, I’ve covered the top 5 rappers from Long Island, ensuring a thorough representation of East Coast talent.
Now, it’s time to shift focus to the West Coast, which is predominantly associated with rappers from Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area. Instead of splitting the list into two separate regions, I’ve opted for a combined top 20 to capture the essence of West Coast rap. This list includes the top 20 West Coast rappers from across the region, with only one artist from outside L.A. or the Bay Area.
West Coast Hip Hop has introduced some of the most controversial and commercially successful acts in the genre, and has also produced the most prolific rapper of the current era. This region has been home to influential groups like N.W.A, The Pharcyde, Hieroglyphics, and Above the Law. While some critics argue that West Coast rappers lack technical skill and dismiss the genre due to the often raw, instrumental-heavy “gangsta rap” that contrasts with the lyrical depth of artists like KRS-One and Rakim, it’s essential to recognize that not all West Coast Hip Hop falls into this category. For every less skilled MC, there are multiple talented or influential artists. This list will explore which of those standout MCs are included and the reasons for their selection.
20. Eazy-E – Compton
Influential? Absolutely. Talented? That’s up for debate. I almost left Eazy-E off this list because, let’s be honest, he wasn’t known for his technical prowess as a rapper. But then I recalled the charisma and raw energy he brought to his 1988 debut, Eazy-Duz-It.
I remembered how his commanding, brash flow and unapologetically crude delivery made you stop and pay attention every time he dropped a verse on an N.W.A track. I thought about how he held his ground during the fierce feud with Dr. Dre after N.W.A disbanded, and how he even ended up at a White House dinner with President George H.W. Bush due to a misunderstanding. In short, Eazy-E was more than just a rapper; he was a larger-than-life figure. His backstory and the intensity behind his sometimes awkwardly delivered lyrics make it clear that excluding him would be a mistake. His influence and legacy are undeniable, even if that legacy is partly shaped by his tragic early death.
However, any Hip Hop enthusiast focused on lyrical skill will tell you that Eazy-E was often one of the least technically proficient rappers. I nearly couldn’t overlook this, but his impact on the genre is impossible to ignore. As the first N.W.A member to release a solo album and one of the pioneers of West Coast rap, he made history with the release of the iconic “Boyz-N-The-Hood” in 1987.
His verses on “Fuck tha Police” and “Straight Outta Compton”—even if ghostwritten—were groundbreaking and delivered in a way only Eazy could. Although his career dwindled after 1993, and he passed away from HIV in 1995 at just 31, his influence remains significant. Eazy-E is one of the earliest and most influential West Coast rappers, earning him a rightful place on this list.
19. Brotha Lynch Hung – Sacramento
Here’s a rapper who tends to divide opinions. Sacramento’s Brotha Lynch Hung is one of those artists you either love, hate, or have never heard of. If you’re someone who strictly appreciates conscious Hip Hop and dismisses gangsta rap, then Lynch isn’t your guy. His mind is filled with dark, twisted thoughts, and he channels them through horrorcore lyrics delivered with a West Coast drawl over menacing g-funk beats.
Lynch first gained recognition with his 1993 single “24 Deep,” which had a distinct East Coast, boom bap vibe. The single’s dark lyrics established him as a talented rapper and generated anticipation for his 1995 debut album, Season of da Siccness.
The album drew inspiration from horror films, similar to Gravediggaz’s 6 Feet Deep and early Three 6 Mafia records like Mystic Stylez. It featured grim g-funk beats and lyrics so graphic that they were referenced in a 1996 murder case where an 18-year-old listened to the song “Locc 2 da Brain” before killing three friends and dying in a shootout with police. Lynch certainly wasn’t part of the Native Tongues movement.
Over the next two decades, Brotha Lynch Hung would release more than ten albums. While Season of da Siccness received the most attention and critical acclaim, his albums Loaded (1997), Dinner and a Movie (2010), and Coathanga Strangla (2011) also garnered respect and success, marking him as one of the few rappers to release well-received albums during both the golden age and in the 2010s.
Although some of Lynch’s albums in the early 2000s didn’t receive as much praise, he managed to maintain his career momentum, achieving recent successes. Add to that the fact that he’s arguably the most well-known rapper from a city as unexpected as Sacramento, and it’s clear why Lynch deserves a spot on this list.
18. Spice 1 – Hayward (Bay Area)
Spice 1 is one of the Bay Area’s most unflinchingly honest and talented storytellers. Since the early 1990s, he’s been a voice for the ethnically diverse suburb of Hayward in Oakland, releasing over twenty albums. His first three albums are widely regarded as West Coast classics. Known as one of the most prolific lyricists within the “Mobb Music” subgenre, Spice 1’s lyrics aren’t for the faint of heart. He vividly portrays the harsh realities of the ghetto, serving more as a raw and uncensored storyteller than as someone who glorifies the gang lifestyle.
His debut self-titled album in 1992, followed by the critically acclaimed 187 He Wrote in 1993, and AmeriKKKa’s Nightmare in 1994, are considered some of the Bay Area’s finest releases. 187 He Wrote, in particular, stands out as one of the most consistent and intense albums from the West Coast, with its g-funk beats perfectly complementing his gritty and introspective lyrics. Tracks like “Trigga Gots No Heart” exemplify this blend of vivid storytelling and powerful instrumentals. Although Spice 1’s later work, including 15 albums in the 2000s alone, didn’t match the impact of his earlier releases, the legacy of his first three albums cements his place as one of the Bay Area’s top artists.
17. Dr. Dre – Compton
It’s hard to deny that 1992’s The Chronic might be the pinnacle of West Coast Hip Hop. However, this doesn’t necessarily place its creator among the top lyricists of the region. Much like his N.W.A bandmate Eazy-E, Dr. Dre often relied on ghostwriters for his lyrics, which, in my view, limits his ranking on this list.
That said, across two iconic albums—The Chronic and 1999’s 2001—Dre delivers his predominantly ghostwritten verses with such conviction that he earns a spot here. Tracks like “Nuthin’ But A G Thang” and “Still D.R.E.” are lyrically impactful, regardless of who penned the words.
It’s impossible to overlook Dre’s influence, especially considering the profound impact of his two major albums, with The Chronic being particularly groundbreaking. However, these albums are celebrated more for Dr. Dre’s innovative, sonically rich production and the strong guest features from MCs like Snoop Dogg, Kurupt, RBX, Xzibit, Eminem, Devin the Dude, and others. Dre’s rapping often feels secondary, but his forceful delivery and distinctive voice, dating back to his N.W.A days on Straight Outta Compton and Efil4zaggin, evoke a specific vibe that resonates with listeners.
Even with many of his lyrics being ghostwritten, Dre has delivered some of the most memorable verses from the West Coast. But when it comes to Dr. Dre, the focus should undoubtedly be on his production skills, where he stands as one of the most talented producers in the game—past or present.
16. King T – Compton
Although Compton’s King T (Tee) hasn’t released an album since 2002, he stands out as one of the most consistent and dedicated West Coast MCs from the late 1980s through the 1990s. Across his five albums released between 1988 and 2002, not a single one could be considered “weak.” King T brought vivid stories of life in Compton, often set against jazzy and introspective West Coast beats that sometimes echoed the East Coast’s “boom bap” style. His smooth delivery, fluid flow, and distinct enunciation put listeners in a unique zone that many other rappers struggle to reach.
While most of his releases didn’t achieve major chart success, King T consistently maintained respect within the West Coast Hip Hop community. Some career highlights include his 1988 debut album Act a Fool, the 1990 follow-up At Your Own Risk, and 1995’s IV Life. He first emerged in 1987 with the track “Bass.”
In the 1990s, he connected with the West Coast underground crew Tha Alkaholiks and appeared on Xzibit’s debut album in 1996. His presence continued into the early 2000s with guest spots on Dr. Dre’s 2001 and Masta Ace’s critically acclaimed Disposable Arts (2001). While King T may not be the most widely recognized rapper from the West Coast, he certainly deserves more recognition and appreciation for the solid work he delivered on each of his studio albums.
15. Boots Riley – Oakland
I consider myself well-versed in Hip Hop, but there are still plenty of underground artists I haven’t explored, as well as a few gems I’ve only recently come across.
One such recent discovery is Oakland’s trio, The Coup, led by rapper Boots Riley. If you haven’t listened to The Coup or Boots Riley, imagine a blend of Public Enemy’s political and social energy with the g-funk vibe of mainstream 1990s West Coast Hip Hop.
Boots Riley could be described as a more approachable version of Chuck D, delivering political and social commentary in a uniquely creative and funky style that genuinely impresses me. His delivery is inviting and his tone doesn’t immediately come off as revolutionary, yet he effectively conveys a strong social message—just in a more subtle and imaginative way compared to Chuck D or Ice Cube.
The Coup has released six studio albums so far, with their most recent in 2012. While all of their albums are solid, the first three—1993’s Kill My Landlord, 1994’s Genocide & Juice, and 1998’s Steal This Album—are the most impactful, with Steal This Album often regarded as their best work. Tracks like “Not Yet Free” from their debut and the clever storytelling in “Me and Jesus the Pimp in a ’79 Granada Last Night” from Steal This Album highlight just how talented an MC Boots Riley is. Each verse he drops carries a clear message, showcasing his intelligence and poetic thoughtfulness.
Boots Riley is a criminally underrated MC and should be on the radar of anyone who hasn’t yet discovered The Coup.
14. Xzibit – Los Angeles
For a brief period, Xzibit was one of the most prominent rappers in the world. During the late 1990s resurgence of Dr. Dre, which brought Eminem and other Aftermath Records artists into the spotlight, Xzibit was at the heart of it all. His popularity even led to him hosting a rather superficial TV show in the years following the Aftermath boom, but his true recognition and respect should come from his music.
Born in Detroit and spending much of his childhood in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Xzibit moved to Los Angeles as a teenager and began rapping in the mid-1990s. He caught the attention of Loud Records in 1996 and released At The Speed of Life the same year, an album that remains one of the most underrated in West Coast Hip Hop.
At The Speed of Life showcased Xzibit’s laid-back delivery, wide-ranging lyrical content, and impressive skill over beats that, while rooted in the West Coast sound, also had a jazzy, boom-bap influence reminiscent of the East Coast.
This album put Xzibit on the map and quickly caught the eye of Dr. Dre, who was working on 2001 in the late 1990s. After dropping his follow-up album, the powerful 40 Dayz & 40 Nightz in 1998, Xzibit was featured on Dr. Dre’s album as well as Eminem’s sophomore release, propelling his fame to new heights.
Although Xzibit’s music quality dipped slightly as he released five more albums after the turn of the century, he never truly “fell off.” However, it’s clear that his first two albums represent the peak of his artistry. Tracks like “Paparazzi,” “The Foundation,” and “Recycled Assassins” display Xzibit at his finest.
From the start, Xzibit’s gruff, distinct voice and lyrical prowess set him apart. His grounded approach to delivering verses in his early work may be the element that got lost when he gained massive fame around the early 2000s. Nonetheless, Xzibit’s contributions to quality West Coast Hip Hop, especially on his first two albums and his notable guest spots on some of the most influential Hip Hop records of all time, cannot be overlooked.
13. Paris – San Francisco
Another highly political rapper often compared to Chuck D is San Francisco’s Paris. Despite being frequently overlooked, he deserves recognition alongside California’s top rappers.
Paris made a strong entrance into the Hip Hop scene with his 1990 debut, The Devil Made Me Do It, a bold and politically charged album that gained attention with its provocative title track. His smooth delivery, though laid-back, was always packed with a powerful message.
Unlike Boots Riley, who used a more intellectual and subtle approach to convey his political and social concerns, Paris was more direct and confrontational in his lyrics. Some consider him a Black Nationalist rapper, although he wasn’t as overtly Afrocentric or aggressive as groups like X-Clan.
His 1992 follow-up album, Sleeping With The Enemy, continued in the same vein as his debut, delivering strong political commentary, particularly on the album’s title track. Paris’s second album carried an even angrier tone, reinforcing his stance on social issues. Over the years, he released six more albums between 1994 and 2015, each continuing his tradition of delivering sharp political messages with a smooth, yet forceful, style. He even collaborated with Chuck D on the 2006 album Rebirth of a Nation, though the project didn’t live up to expectations.
In addition to his music, Paris has built a successful career outside of Hip Hop as a respected writer, with his articles published in various outlets as well as on his website. As one of the more insightful voices in Hip Hop, Paris skillfully balanced his smooth delivery with controversial lyrics, all while maintaining an intelligent and well-articulated perspective on the social and political issues he addressed.
12. Aceyalone – Los Angeles
Aceyalone, one of the more underground rappers on this list, first gained recognition in the early 1990s as the standout member of the acclaimed underground group Freestyle Fellowship. This crew, known for its abstract themes, released two influential albums in the early ’90s. Aceyalone quickly emerged as the most technically skilled rapper of the group, a significant feat considering Freestyle Fellowship featured five (sometimes six) highly talented MCs.
Following the release of Freestyle Fellowship’s 1993 classic Innercity Griots, Aceyalone embarked on a solo career, releasing three critically acclaimed albums within six years: All Balls Don’t Bounce in 1995, the concept album A Book of Human Language in 1998, and Accepted Eclectic in 2001. Over the next decade, he continued to put out music, including seven additional albums between 2003 and 2015, one of which was a well-received collaboration with producer RJD2 in 2006. He also has a new album slated for release in 2016.
Aceyalone is recognized for his unconventional and dynamic flow, often shifting his vocal pitch from high to low and modulating his tone from quiet to loud. His lyrics are eccentric and thought-provoking, making him the Hip Hop equivalent of an abstract painter. Despite the complexity of his subject matter, Aceyalone remains relatable and accessible, drawing listeners in with his lyrical prowess. Songs like “Mic Check” and “Faces” showcase his unique style. Aceyalone is an incredibly talented and underappreciated rapper, and his intelligence and lyrical skill place him among the best on this list.
11. MC Ren – Compton
MC Ren, a key member of the original N.W.A lineup, often flew under the radar compared to his fellow group members, despite staying with the group through its most tumultuous years into the early 1990s. While Ice Cube was widely recognized for his lyrical prowess, and Dr. Dre and Eazy-E often took center stage as the faces of N.W.A, Ren’s contributions were frequently overshadowed.
Ren’s lack of “star status” may have contributed to him being underappreciated, but his impact on the group was significant. He delivered some of the most intense and unfiltered rhymes in N.W.A’s discography, offering raw, uncensored portrayals of street life. His delivery was more polished and refined than that of Dr. Dre and Eazy-E, and if not for Ice Cube, Ren would easily be considered the group’s top lyricist.
After Ice Cube’s departure in 1990, Ren indeed became N.W.A’s most skilled lyricist. His work on the 1991 album Efil4zaggin is exceptional, showcasing some of the finest hardcore rap ever produced. Following N.W.A’s disbandment in 1992, Ren quickly released the classic EP Kizz My Black Azz, which is often regarded as one of the best West Coast Hip Hop EPs. The standout track “Final Frontier” highlights Ren’s ability to carry a song on his own. He continued to build his solo career throughout the 1990s with three well-received albums, although his 2009 release fell short of expectations.
Ren’s distinctive higher-pitched yet gruff delivery made him a unique voice in Hip Hop. While he may not be the most celebrated lyricist on this list, he stands out as one of the hardest-hitting rappers from one of the genre’s most revolutionary groups. His contributions to N.W.A’s two iconic albums are substantial, and he deserves as much recognition as his bandmates for his role in the group. His respectable solo career further cements his place on this list.
10. Snoop Dogg – Long Beach
Snoop Dogg is one of the most iconic and celebrated figures in Hip Hop, with a career that started off on an extraordinary note. Rising under the mentorship of Dr. Dre, who had just moved to Death Row Records after N.W.A’s breakup, Snoop was quickly positioned as Dre’s protégé. His first major appearance came in 1992 with the track “Deep Cover,” a song that played a significant role in popularizing the G-Funk sound that year. By the time The Chronic dropped at the end of 1992, Snoop had already made his mark, delivering some of the most unforgettable verses in Hip Hop.
Snoop’s debut album, Doggystyle, released in 1993, catapulted him to superstar status, driven by enormous anticipation. The album was an instant success, both commercially and critically, and is still regarded today as a definitive G-Funk masterpiece, standing alongside The Chronic.
Although Snoop Dogg has enjoyed a long and successful career, with many albums to his name, few have matched the impact of Doggystyle. His second album fell short of the high bar set by his debut, a pattern that would persist throughout much of his career. Despite this, he achieved another critical success with 2006’s Tha Blue Carpet Treatment, which marked a return to his earlier style. Over the years, Snoop has collaborated with numerous mainstream artists, both within and outside of Hip Hop, becoming something of an ambassador for the genre and helping to make it more accessible through these associations.
At his peak, Snoop was among the best in the game. His flow on tracks like “Nuthin’ But a G Thang” and “Gin and Juice” showcases his immense talent, while songs like “Murder Was the Case” reveal his depth as a storyteller. Even as he ventured into more mainstream territory, Snoop maintained his signature smooth flow and distinctive voice, consistently demonstrating his rapping prowess. His verses, particularly when laid over classic G-Funk beats, remain powerful, as evidenced by his guest appearances on 2Pac’s All Eyez on Me, Dr. Dre’s 2001, Eminem’s The Marshall Mathers LP, and Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly.
Though his mainstream ventures might prevent him from ranking higher on some lists, Snoop Dogg remains one of the most talented and recognizable rappers from the West Coast.
9. The D.O.C. – Compton
Originally from Dallas, Texas, The D.O.C. made his way to Compton as a teenager and quickly connected with Dr. Dre and N.W.A. Though he became a key associate of the group around the time Ice Cube left, he never had the chance to appear on their next album. Tragically, shortly after the release of his debut album, No One Can Do It Better in 1989, The D.O.C. was involved in a devastating car accident that severely damaged his vocal cords, effectively ending his promising rapping career.
Despite this setback, The D.O.C. managed to create one of the most underrated and exceptional albums in Hip Hop history. No One Can Do It Better featured his intense, powerful delivery, showcasing a level of energy and skill that outshined even the members of N.W.A, including Ice Cube. The album was driven by hit singles like “No One Can Do It Better,” “It’s Funky Enough,” and “The Formula.” Produced by Dr. Dre, the combination of The D.O.C.’s fiery presence and Dre’s production resulted in one of the finest West Coast Hip Hop albums ever made.
Although The D.O.C. released two more albums, one in 1996 and another in 2003, these were mostly filled with guest appearances due to his inability to speak properly after the accident. Before the tragedy, he was a passionate performer and a skilled lyricist, bringing a sharp, almost intellectual edge to early gangsta rap.
Following the accident, The D.O.C. largely faded from the public eye, though he occasionally made appearances in skits on Dr. Dre’s albums, often as a raspy-voiced, humorous character. It’s heartbreaking to consider what might have been, but the brilliance of No One Can Do It Better secures his place among the greats, with that album alone earning him a spot in Hip Hop’s top ranks.
8. Ras Kass – Carson
Originating from Carson, a suburb in South Los Angeles, Ras Kass made a striking entrance onto the Hip Hop scene in 1994 with his single “Remain Anonymous.” The track featured a complex, abstract, multi-syllabic flow that was rare in West Coast Hip Hop at the time, with the exception of a few artists like those from Freestyle Fellowship. Ras Kass quickly gained traction in the underground circuit, eventually landing a record deal and releasing his debut album Soul on Ice in 1996.
This album garnered significant attention not only for Ras Kass’s rapid-fire, unconventional flow but also for its provocative lyrical content. The track “Nature of the Threat” sparked controversy with its commentary on American history and race relations, which some listeners found contentious. Despite the uproar, the album, which had only one guest appearance (Coolio on “Drama”), solidified Ras Kass’s position as one of the most promising MCs on the West Coast.
Although the success of Soul on Ice was never fully replicated, Ras Kass continued to release music, dropping eight more albums between 1998 and 2014. Some of these projects, such as 1998’s Rasassination and 2010’s A.D.I.D.A.S (All Day I Dream About Spittin), stood out more than others. Throughout his career, Ras Kass remained consistent with his intricate lyrical delivery, filled with metaphors, similes, and clever wordplay that defined his initial rise in the mid-90s. He is regarded as one of the purest and most authentic MCs from the West Coast, taking pride in every verse he delivers. Had his subsequent albums matched the strength of Soul on Ice, it’s likely he would be much higher on this list of West Coast Hip Hop legends.
7. MC Eiht – Compton
Emerging in the late 1980s, MC Eiht formed Compton’s Most Wanted (CMW) in 1989, during the peak of N.W.A’s success. Though not connected to N.W.A or its affiliates, Eiht and CMW brought their own brand of raw, hardcore Hip Hop with a slightly more relaxed vibe. The group became known for three influential albums in the early 1990s: It’s a Compton Thang (1990), Straight Check N’Em (1991), and their standout work, Music to Driveby (1992). While CMW was a group effort, Eiht was the sole rapper, becoming the face of the group. Music to Driveby marked their highest point of popularity, particularly with the haunting track “Hood Took Me Under.”
After CMW disbanded for a few years, Eiht pursued a solo career, releasing several albums between 1994 and 2007. His most notable solo effort was 1994’s We Come Strapped, which continued the style of Music to Driveby but didn’t quite reach the same acclaim.
Eiht also made memorable guest appearances on tracks like Spice 1’s “187 He Wrote,” Cypress Hill’s IV, Pete Rock’s Soul Survivor, and Snoop Dogg’s Tha Blue Carpet Treatment. In a surprising twist, Eiht made a powerful cameo on Kendrick Lamar’s 2012 track “m.A.A.d. city” from the album good kid, m.A.A.d city.
Throughout his career, MC Eiht has consistently delivered vivid, gritty narratives of street life and gang culture, a theme that hasn’t changed over the years. This authenticity likely led to his inclusion on Kendrick Lamar’s modern classic. Known for his slightly unorthodox, syncopated flow, Eiht’s laid-back delivery contrasts with the intense stories he tells, making his music both chilling and compelling.
MC Eiht remains one of the West Coast’s most respected street rappers, with his lyrics reflecting real-life experiences he lived through. His skill has remained sharp over the years, and his collaboration with Kendrick Lamar in 2012 proved that he still possesses the same storytelling prowess that defined his early days with Compton’s Most Wanted. Eiht is a true West Coast legend, showing that even though the “gangsta” rap era may have waned, a skilled storyteller can still evoke the raw emotions that made the genre so impactful in the 1990s.
6. Kendrick Lamar – Compton
While some of the rappers I’ve discussed have been active in recent years, none of them emerged after 1996. This is true for the rest of the list as well. In the 21st century, it’s rare to see new, high-quality Hip Hop artists break through, and when they do, they’re often underground (a few of whom will appear in the honorable mentions).
It’s almost unheard of for a groundbreaking artist to emerge in Hip Hop in the 2010s, but Kendrick Lamar from Compton defied expectations. Although he was active in the late 2000s, Kendrick gained significant attention in 2011 with his album Section.80. His real breakthrough came in 2012 with the release of good kid, m.A.A.d. city, which is widely regarded as a modern Hip Hop classic. On his first two records, Kendrick demonstrated a strong social consciousness, blending storytelling and insightful commentary with his complex, multi-syllabic, and sometimes unconventional flow.
That same lyrical mastery was arguably perfected on 2015’s To Pimp a Butterfly, which many consider the best Hip Hop album of the new millennium. Kendrick shifted away from some of his mainstream influences and delved into deeply political themes, addressing racial issues affecting African-Americans. The album featured jazz-fusion samples and live instrumentation, earning it instant recognition as a masterpiece. To Pimp a Butterfly became the unofficial soundtrack to the Black Lives Matter movement, which continues to be significant in America today. In early 2016, Kendrick released untitled unmastered., a collection of tracks that didn’t make it onto To Pimp a Butterfly. While it didn’t have the same impact as his previous works, it still stood far above the majority of Hip Hop releases today. It’s worth noting that these tracks were originally cut from To Pimp a Butterfly.
Kendrick Lamar has become a revolutionary voice in Hip Hop, playing a crucial role in keeping the genre fresh, original, and relevant. His West Coast roots ensure his place on this list. The only reason he isn’t ranked higher is that his career is still relatively young—just over five years in the spotlight—so his music hasn’t yet faced the test of time. We’ll have to revisit this in fifteen years to see where he stands.
For now, Kendrick Lamar stands as a rare exception—a true artist who embodies the spirit and message of Hip Hop. While many new rappers emerge daily, most blend their style with pop, electronic, and other genres that stray from Hip Hop’s core. Kendrick Lamar, however, stays true to the genre, with only subtle influences from other music styles. Thankfully for Hip Hop, he is the most recognizable, respected, and influential artist in the genre today.
5. Too $hort – Oakland
Too $hort is often credited as one of the pioneering rappers who helped establish the West Coast on the Hip Hop map, even before the rise of figures like Ice-T. With a career spanning nearly three decades, from his debut album Players to his most recent work in 2014, Too $hort remains one of the few artists to maintain relevance over such an extended period.
Although many of his records didn’t gain much attention outside of the Bay Area, his early contributions to the genre, at a time when Hip Hop was just starting to gain momentum in New York, are significant enough to earn him a high spot on this list. Several of his albums are also regarded as West Coast classics, further solidifying his place among the greats.
In his first four albums, Too $hort mainly focused on themes of street life and pimping, but 1988’s Life Is…Too Short marked a slight shift as he began addressing more varied topics, including the harsh realities of life in the ghetto. This evolution continued with 1990’s Short Dog’s in the House, most notably through the single “The Ghetto,” which offered a sobering portrayal of the struggles of growing up in Oakland and the difficulties of escaping the cycle of poverty. Despite occasionally returning to themes of pimping and street life throughout the 1990s, Too $hort’s work during this period was well-received, and he became recognized as one of the “grandmasters” of West Coast Hip Hop.
Though not known for a wide range of lyrical diversity, Too $hort has had moments of social consciousness that set him apart from his peers. His steady, straightforward flow has always been distinctive, making it easy to recognize when he’s on the mic. His longevity in the Hip Hop scene is nearly unmatched, and he’s perhaps the most well-known and respected artist to represent Oakland, where he was born, raised, and continues to be a prominent figure.
4. Del the Funky Homosapien – Oakland
Del the Funky Homosapien stands out as one of the West Coast’s most distinguished underground artists, making his debut in 1991 with the influential album I Wish My Brother George Was Here. A tribute to funk icon George Clinton, the album was deeply rooted in funk influences, which perfectly complemented Del’s lively, syncopated flow. Featuring his most famous single, “Mistadobalina,” the album offered intelligent, street-level narratives without adopting the typical “gangsta” persona, and showcased Del’s unique personality on the mic. His lyrics also touched on social issues, as Del wasn’t shy about addressing life in the ghetto. This blend of funk and socially-conscious content became his signature style, and he continued to refine it across more than ten albums, with highlights including his debut and the subsequent releases: No Need For Alarm (1993), Future Development (1997), and Both Sides of the Brain (2000).
As a cousin of Ice Cube, Del also leads the Oakland-based Hieroglyphics crew, a collective of intelligent, socially-aware rappers like Casual and Souls of Mischief. The group released the album 3rd Eye Vision in 1998, where Del further showcased his skills, especially in collaborative tracks. In 2000, Del teamed up with Bay Area DJs and producers Dan the Automator and Kid Koala to create the Deltron 3030 project, a concept album that takes listeners over a thousand years into the future, offering commentary on the consequences of social and environmental issues that began around the year 2000.
This project, which is widely regarded as Del’s magnum opus, highlighted his creativity and imaginative storytelling. Additionally, Del made notable guest appearances on albums by the electronic/hip-hop fusion group Gorillaz, further demonstrating his ability to push boundaries.
In recent years, Del has continued to release new music, including a sequel to Deltron 3030, but his work from the 1990s and early 2000s remains his most celebrated. Known for his distinctive flow and strong Oakland accent, Del often delves into abstract lyricism, but his work is still accessible enough for a broader audience. For fans of his style, Del the Funky Homosapien is unmatched in his ability to weave together stories from the streets and tales of distant times and places. His eccentric, whimsical tendencies make him one of the most unique voices in hip-hop, comparable to the East Coast’s Kool Keith. Del unquestionably deserves a spot among the top five West Coast MCs.
3. Ice Cube – Compton
From his early days with N.W.A to his remarkable solo career in the early 1990s, Ice Cube left an indelible mark on hip-hop, arguably surpassing the impact of most other rappers, whether from the West Coast or beyond. He made his initial breakthrough on Straight Outta Compton with verses that became some of the most influential in hip-hop history. However, a fallout with his bandmates led to his departure from the group. Despite this, for many listeners, their first impression of N.W.A was shaped by Ice Cube’s fiery opening verse on the iconic track “Straight Outta Compton,” which immediately established the group as a force to be reckoned with, distancing them from the more juvenile sound of their earlier work, N.W.A. and the Posse from 1987. Although his time with N.W.A was brief, Cube was undeniably the most talented rapper in the group.
In hindsight, Ice Cube’s departure from N.W.A might have been a blessing for hip-hop. It paved the way for his solo career, which gave us undeniable classics like AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted (1990), Death Certificate (1991), The Predator (1992), and Lethal Injection (1993), not to mention the Kill at Will EP in 1990. In four consecutive years, Cube released four West Coast masterpieces, with the first two often ranked among the top ten West Coast hip-hop albums of all time. These albums carried forward the politically charged and socially conscious messages he was known for in N.W.A, addressing issues ranging from racism and corrupt institutions to police brutality, all while occasionally reflecting on the brighter moments of life. Tracks like “Steady Mobbin’,” “It Was a Good Day,” “Color Blind,” and “Wicked” showcase Ice Cube at the peak of his solo career.
In the mid-1990s, Ice Cube shifted his focus, taking a break from solo work to collaborate on the Westside Connection project with rappers Mack 10 and WC, and to further his acting career. Although he continued to release music in the late 1990s and beyond, these later albums didn’t quite capture the raw energy of his early work. Over time, he became more recognized as an actor, ultimately becoming one of the highest-grossing African American film stars. Yet, the fierce anger and distinctive high-pitched delivery that defined his early work with N.W.A and his first solo albums remain the true essence of Ice Cube. He is a visionary, a revolutionary voice, a black man who confronted societal injustices, and a sharp political commentator. While his rhymes weren’t the most intricate, his ability to blend anger with intellect made his message resonate powerfully. Ice Cube undeniably earns a top spot on any list, solidifying his place as a hip-hop legend.
2. Ice-T – Los Angeles
Ice-T, widely recognized as the first rapper to truly represent Los Angeles, began his rap journey in 1983 following a stint in the military and a brief involvement in bank robbery. Emerging around the same time as Too $hort, he made his mark with the single “The Coldest Rap / Cold Wind-Madness” and continued to build his reputation with several more singles before dropping his debut album.
From the outset, Ice-T delivered gritty street narratives with a smooth, cold-as-ice flow. His debut LP, Rhyme Pays, was released in 1987 and became one of the first significant full-length records from the West Coast. The following year, he released Power, which solidified his reputation as a formidable lyrical force, with standout tracks like “I’m Your Pusher” and “High Rollers” driving the album’s success.
In 1989, Ice-T took a more conscious and political turn with The Iceberg/Freedom of Speech… Just Watch What You Say, featuring powerful tracks such as “Lethal Weapon,” “You Played Yourself,” and “The Hunted Child.” His crowning achievement, however, came with the release of O.G. Original Gangster in 1991. This album showcased Ice-T at the peak of his lyrical abilities, with tracks like “O.G. Original Gangster” and “New Jack Hustler” anchoring the ambitious 24-track project. He followed up with Home Invasion in 1993, proving that he was still a force to be reckoned with in the rap game.
During the early 1990s, Ice-T also formed the metal band Body Count, whose debut album featured the controversial track “Cop Killer,” reflecting the deep anger Ice-T felt toward systemic issues. Although he continued to release solo hip-hop albums throughout the 1990s and beyond, none achieved the acclaim of his earlier works. His later albums, released in 1999 and 2006, received lukewarm reception. In the early 2000s, Ice-T transitioned into acting, most notably in the TV series Law and Order.
Like Ice Cube, Ice-T transformed his tough upbringing into a highly successful career in music and later acting. Despite criticisms of hypocrisy for playing a cop on Law and Order, Ice-T’s contributions to West Coast hip-hop—and the genre as a whole—are undeniable. As the pioneer of “gangsta” rap, he balanced raw, sometimes disturbing content with intelligence and dignity. His distinct delivery and powerful lyrics set the stage for many who followed, and even on his later, less celebrated albums, Ice-T never lost the fiery passion that defined his early work. His influence on hip-hop is profound, marking him as one of the most important figures in the genre’s history, particularly on the West Coast.
1. 2Pac – Oakland
Choosing 2Pac as the top West Coast rapper might seem like the popular choice, but it’s hard to argue against it. Despite being born in Harlem and spending part of his youth in Baltimore and New York City, 2Pac’s roots in West Coast hip-hop are undeniable. Much like how Xzibit isn’t classified as a Midwest or Southwest rapper despite growing up in Detroit and Albuquerque, 2Pac is distinctly a West Coast artist. He relocated to the Bay Area in the late 1980s, where he began his career with Digital Underground as a dancer before diving into rapping and acting. His identity as a West Coast rapper is cemented by his life and career in Oakland.
Now that we’ve cleared that up, let’s discuss why 2Pac holds the number one spot. His body of work is astonishing: within just five years, he released five solo albums and one with Thug Life, maintaining remarkable consistency throughout. Even his earliest albums, often considered his weakest, are solid contributions to hip-hop. Between March 1995 and November 1996, he released three of the most influential West Coast albums ever, within a span of just 20 months—an incredible achievement.
There’s no denying that 2Pac’s tragic death has amplified the mystique around his music, and it’s true that posthumous acclaim has elevated his legacy. However, if you lived through the mid-1990s, you know that 2Pac was omnipresent in both hip-hop and popular culture. His music resonated powerfully, driven by raw emotion and a unique energy that set him apart. While much of his work delved into the harsh realities of street life and crime, he also tackled political and social issues, particularly on his first three albums.
In 1996, with the release of All Eyez on Me and The 7 Day Theory (under the alias Makaveli), 2Pac shifted towards a more mainstream sound, particularly in his choice of beats. Despite this, his lyrics remained as intense and dark as ever, reflecting a sense of impending doom. His premonitions of his own death, like those of The Notorious B.I.G., were hauntingly realized when he was fatally shot in Las Vegas in September 1996.
2Pac’s legacy extends far beyond his most famous hit, “California Love.” His debut album, 2Pacalypse Now (1991), featured poignant tracks like “If My Homie Calls” and “Brenda’s Got a Baby.” His playful side shone through on “I Get Around” from 1993’s Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z., while his deepest emotional expression came with “Dear Mama” on 1995’s Me Against The World. All Eyez on Me includes some of his most powerful work, such as “Ambitionz Az a Ridah” and the epic “No More Pain,” while The 7 Day Theory is remembered for the haunting “Hail Mary,” recorded just weeks before his death.
2Pac’s catalog is extensive, covering everything from party anthems like “It Ain’t Easy” and “2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted,” to love songs like “How Do U Want It?” and “Me and My Girlfriend.” His music resonated with a wide audience, and even his posthumously released tracks, like “Changes,” continue to impact listeners today.
2Pac was a passionate, talented, and emotional artist, yet his rhymes were always calculated and intelligent. Though some may remember him primarily for his feud with The Notorious B.I.G., this was just one aspect of his complex story. In just five years, 2Pac created a legacy of classic hip-hop that remains influential and celebrated today. Unlike many West Coast legends who released weaker albums later in their careers, 2Pac’s work remained strong until the end.
Many consider 2Pac among the greatest rappers of all time, and they aren’t wrong. While others like Kool G Rap, KRS-One, and Rakim might also belong in the conversation, 2Pac is undeniably one of the ten greatest rappers ever and the best from the West Coast. His posthumous appeal adds to his legacy, but the music he released during his lifetime speaks for itself. His last three albums were as critically acclaimed then as they are now.
2Pac is my top choice for the number one West Coast rapper, due to his unmatched passion and his ability to create so much classic music in such a short period. His untimely death leaves us wondering what more he could have achieved.
Credit photo: “Ice Cube” by Eva Rinaldi Celebrity Photographer is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
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