The hip-hop community constantly debates about who’s the hottest rapper — and now Nas weighs in with a current list of his own. The Queens lyricist sat down with Revolt TV chairman Andre Harrell for a special “Music Talk” segment that aired Christmas night (Dec.25).
During the 44-minute interview, Nas named his top five rappers: J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Lil Wayne and Rick Ross, he listed without hesitation.
In that order? Perhaps. But each rapper Nas listed is considered a modern-day G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time) in some capacity. Recently, Cole’s entire album 4 Your Eyez Only debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 — and of course he went double platinum with no features for his 2014 album Forest Hills Drive.
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Kendrick changed the game back in 2012 with his second project and major-label debut Good Kid M.A.A.D. City, which delivered pure West Coast vibes, taking fans on a musical journey through Compton. Drake catapulted to global stardom, proving himself through mixtapes (2006-2009) and eventually selling out arenas back-to-back (no pun intended). Throughout his career, the 30-year-old artist has won several Grammys including best rap album (2013).
Lil Wayne is a living legend and recently held the record (now tied with Drake) for having the most appearances for a solo artist on the Billboard Hot 100. He’s also responsible for launching the careers of mega-stars Nicki Minaj and Drake.
Lastly, Ross wears many hats as a rapper, songwriter and entrepreneur. His list of chart-topping albums include Teflon Don, God Forgives I Don’t and Mastermind.
Who do you think is the hottest rapper in the game right now? Take a look at the Nas’ snippet with Revolt TV below: