I’ve been casually following this whole effort by MTV to compile their list of the “hottest” MC’s in the game. Not because I prescribe to the bullshit they’re selling, but more because I’m a “blogger. And as they’re the “experts,” it’s the “bloggers” role to play pundit to the expert’s analysis of things. Throw rocks @ the thrown I guess you’d say.
I knew their list was an abstraction based on factors that only their in-house team can confirm. As well, in this fickle thing called rap, it’s hard to say who will be/won’t be “hot” come six months from now. Overall though, the names listed below are the ones we see & hear on the radio, often listed in the “featuring” with other artists, selling the products & causing a stir in the news.
However, I knew it was fuckery when I saw the cheesy graphics they were using (muddafuckas should’ve hollered @ Infamous P).
Anyways, here’s their list…along with slight rebuttals or cosigns
1. Kanye – Agreed. In all of his splendor & arrogance, ‘Ye’s got shit on lock.
2. Jay-Z – Agreed. Usurped by no one but Kanye as a go-to guy in this rap thing.
3. Weezy – Teetering between self-destruction & greatness can often yield great results.
4. Rick Ross – Well, if you’re gonna list the heavyweights…
5. Snoop Dog – Didn’t someone (or a lot of someones) write his whole last album?
6. 50 Cent – Entertaining? Yes. Hottest MC? Enh…
7. Lupe Fiasco – Yes, no, maybe.
8. Young Jeezy – Hmm…I fucks with Jeezy but he’s had a quiet year, no?
9. Andre 3000 – Yep. Even without an album, if you compiled his guest spots, he’d be on the list.
10. T.I – Same as Wayne. Amidst the chaos, something spectacular should be happening very soon.
To see the full list, visit http://www.mtv.com/specials/hottest/mcs/
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Top 5 MC’s you ain’t gotta remind me
Top 5 MC’s you gotta rewind me
the roc is at the top.. all that matters to me, yeezy
we did it for the glory
Corey Gunz, Jay Electronica, Clipse
3000 and T.I. should be in the top 5. that is my only worry, and Ross, REALLY?!!!? i don’t know who fits better, Pusha T., but let’s be honest, he and Jeezy are swagger rappers, not much for lyrics.
This list is as disgusting as their last list.
SIDEBar
Best Buy will have 250gb portable hard drives on sale next week for 99.99
Sorry ^^^ I meant “isn’t” as
as long as Wu Tang aint on this list I’m cool with it
the roc is in the building !! Even if i think Dre 3000 should be numero uno
Fuck a “Top Ten” list. MTV’s just as bad if not worse than BET right about now.
@ Phoenixxx: Why do you constantly diss Wu-Tang??? They’re veterans in hiphop my ninja, show respect or shut the fuck up.
Angay 1000 aint have a record since Idlewild
which was like what, 2005?
he shouldnt be on the list. 4 or 5 guest verses in 2 years don’t make you hot
I thought this list was straight caca.
Yeah, I can dig the top three…. but after that, it goes straight to hell.
3000 should be higher, period. I mean, if you hear the word ‘remix’, somewhere, deep in your brain, you hope it’s ‘Dre coming through with another banger.
They actually argued about Soulja Boy being on this damn list? For the kids or not, fuck him. I’ll listen to Kriss Kross instead. (I Missed The Bus > Soulja Boy)
Another failure by MTV. Good job, let’s see if they make it 3 for 3 next year.
This list is all wrong. It has some truths, but its wrong mostly.
It’s sad I even care.
@PHOENIXXX
Those 4 or 5 guest verses are better than two-thirds of the people’s albums (and in one or two cases, catalogs) that’s on this list.
There’s a big difference between over-saturating the market with stuff (see: LIl Wayne) and keeping the market waiting on that next hit, especially if they are ALL consistently hot (see: 3000, finding a Wii in a big box store)
phoenixxx, who’s your favorite emcee?
this list aint about the best lyrically or the most talented
this list is about who’s hot RIGHT NOW
Andre 3000 is not hot right now. he hasnt had his own record in years. so what he got a little internet buzz off his guest verses.
if thats the case, Joe Budden, Crooked I and Royce Da 5’9 deserve to be on the list more than Andre
anybody got b.o.b & amy winehouse – ”grip ur body”?
andre 3000′s guest spots are overated…. there not that great… mtv’s list was by the numbers (no pun intended)
As much as I HATE to do this, I gotta agree with the hater…
3 Stacks is ill & His guest spots have been dope, but Dude ain’t really that hot to be on that list. Idlewild was the weakest OutKast album to date & 4 or 5 features in the past 2 years don’t cut it for Me.
Like the boy Teef said, “Hotness” is subjective. Ross has been buzzin since “Hustlin” & is contantly getting called for features. As much as I hate to say it, His position on that list is deserved. Now Snoop…I don’t know about that.
P.S. If “Swag” is at an all time premium these days, Jim Jones shoulda got a slot too…
Again, over-saturating the market != hotness.
Joe is hot right now? When? After Mood Musik 3 dropped, we all exhaled and now it’s being re-released into “been there, done that” territory.
Yeah, Crooked I has been on top of his game for 52 1/2 weeks, but outside of the innernuts and parts of the West, do you really expect the rest of them to know who he is?
Royce? Psshaw. See Crooked I.
EVERYBODY knows 3000. And everybody is waiting on his album. Hence, the “hot” moniker.
by everybody you must mean the blogs
you say yourself over-saturating the market=hotness
so how does Andre qualify?
he doesnt.
I say we have our own Top 10 List, Gotty.
Seriously.
Recruit a group of us, say about 10 people.
Have us submit our list. Average it out, then have us discuss what we rated. I say, bring the list to the people!
Who’s with me? (Probably nobody. LOL)
I said over-saturating the market does not equal hotness.
I apologize, math head (!= means does not equal)
^ Gotty ain’t a big fan of lists lol. The Crew will vouch for me on that. We do them only b/c they badger me & I reluctantly agree.
Lists, the word “classic” and the phrase “best ever” are all annoyingly subjective to me.
So, can we at least have a forum to discuss who and what we think is ho-
Oh. We already do.
Well then, never mind.
“Lists, the word “classic” and the phrase “best ever” are all annoyingly subjective to me.”
———————————————————————–
Damn right, co-sign like bad credit.
Lil Wayne was number 1 on the list last year with no album, just off countless mixtapes, guest verses, and buzz on the net
Joe Budden had the internet going crazy off Mood Muzik 3, fans and haters alike. nigga actually made trailers for a mixtape lmao
if 3000 deserves to be there, Budden deserves to be there
im just saying
on another note
Suge Knight lost
Oh. We already do.
=========
Basically lol
Don’t worry. TC or David D will come thru & spark the shit off so folks can argue their points. To me, it’s damn near pointless. Entertaining, but pointless b/c everybody has their own opinion.
It’s part of the reason so few agree w/my sentiments that Screwball’s Y2K is one of the best albums ever and that Vakill should be mentioned more often.
Go look’em up.
See the…point?
“Lists, the word “classic” and the phrase “best ever” are all annoyingly subjective to me.”
**************************************************************
after some previous (exhausting) back and forth convo on “some sh*t” concerning “classic”, or some derivative of the word, I have finally come to the position where I wholeheartedly agree.
check your email, Sir G
If we are solely basing this list on who’s “hot right now”, I actually think it’s fine, but some of the rankings in their top 10 just need to be adjusted a little… okay, maybe 50 needs to be dropped and replaced, but other than that, be happy that Soulja Boy isn’t on that list.
3 Stacks deserves his spot because even though he only had guest spots, dude had quite a few mixtapes over the last year or so (I know that most of the stuff on there contained old verses, but it still counts… some younger listeners may have missed them the first time around).
I’m not a huge Rick Ross fan, but people are listening to him right now, and have been since he’s been out. Thanks to Khaled & Fat Joe.
Lupe…. enh… I’m a fan, but be honest Lupe Fiasco’s Food & Liquor is waaaay better than The Cool. Sorry I had to do that to the some of his more “recent” fans.
Young Jeezy…. maybe…. maybe not. If his next album isn’t as good as his debut, I’m gonna stop buying his stuff for a while. He’s on a slow decline right now IMO.
I’m gonna go back to cleaning house while you guys scold me…
*starts vaccuum*
MTV is the last place i get my rap info.
50 ain’t hot right now? C’mon B, He’s in the media spotlight as much as anybody else on that list, with or without an album out. You don’t have to be a fan to see Fif is still one of the most relevant artists in the game today.
I pretty much agree with Gotty’s summary apart from Jigga – who despite being my own G.O.A.T., has left me cold with that American Gangster joint.
^ When I said “hot right now”, I meant in music… not pop-culture… but if that’s what we’re switching to, then and only then is 50 Cent one of the most relevant artists in the game today. Mtv put him on this list so he would cry like he did last year, … I’m not a fan of his, but when he puts out quality music, I do show respect.
50 ain’t hot right now? C’mon B, He’s in the media spotlight as much as anybody else on that list, with or without an album out. You don’t have to be a fan to see Fif is still one of the most relevant artists in the game today.
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Musically, 50 is not hot. Totally disagree w/that shit. I can’t tell you too much if anything that he dropped in the past two quarters.
So Invasion Of The Body Snatchers/Elephant In The Sand weren’t dope? I’m not a 50 Stan in the least, but no one from the East Coast is doing anything right now except Fif.
this is crabs in a barrell crap for ratings… they don’t do this nonsense in mainstream white genres. at least not to this extent.
and what does “in the game” mean, exactly?
releasing material? getting BDS? regularly touring? mixtapes?
whose in the game?
For example: Dre 3 stacks hasn’t done a full-length in forever, but he’s still in the game, right?
Rakim is on the margins due to output, but does he qualify?
The Roots go aluminum with every release, but sales aside is Black Thought worth being on the list?
There’s a cat out of Tenn named Andale who is bananas insane with it; two classics and counting, but he’s in a sub-genre that MTV doesn’t cover (christian hiphop).
Em hasn’t put anything out in about 3 years; but i think he’s still in the game.
Does Slug count? How about Tech N9Ne? Ahmad from 4th Ave Jones? Gift of Gab?
these lists are just goofy.
^ co-sizzle m’nizzle
Elephant In The Sand was pretty good sh*t btw
Eff MTV, My top ten “Hottest” MC’s list looks a lil different…
10. Jay Electronica- The only MC on this list who created a buzz without the benefit of an album or a mixtape. It was a toss up between Jay E & Blu, but I give it to Jay due to the fact He has so little actual material out, yet still got a spot on the Rock The Bells our alongside proven MC’s.
9. Joe Buddens- The Innernuts were frothing at the mouth for MM3 & it didn’t disappoint. His output has been scarce since, but with the support of a diehard fan base, I still think He’s poised to do something big in 08.
8. Pusha T- Similar to Buddens, there’s a hardcore fan base that supports The Clipse/Re-Up Gang. Even though many didn’t think WGI4C Vol.3 was as good as the previous volumes, IMO, it was the most lyrical mixtape I’ve heard since…well, since MM3, & Pusha was the star attraction. The only thing seperating Buddens & Pusha T is a major label deal.
7. Young Jeezy- Even though His output has slowed down considerably since “The Inspiration”, a couple of high profile features & endorsements have managed to keep Him somewhat in the spotlight. Album number three should be the true test of Jeezy’s staying power.
6. 50 Cent- After taking an L to Ye’ last year, Fif has certainly taken a hit in terms of His popularity. But two strong mixtapes have been overshadowed by His various beefs & buisness ventures. Not that I think He minds much. Any press is good press for Fiddy. G-Unit’s “T.O.S” is gonna be an important album, to see if He learned from His mistakes on “Curtis” & refocused on making the type of music that got Him signed in he first place.
5. Lupe Fiasco- Overcame “Fiascogate” & served up a critically acclaimed album, even though I’m in agreement with D. Howser that “Food & Liquor’ was a better listen. Still, the mainstream media fell in love with Him & with two big time co-signers (Ye’ & Skateboard P) & a spot on the biggest Hip-Hop tour this year, Lupe managed to gain acceptance even with highbrow concepts & subpar production.
4. Jay-Z- I thought AG was dope. Nothing new, but still, it showed that Hov hadn’t completely lost His mojo. All the extracurriculars (Resigning as Def Jam Prez, 9 figure label deals, vigorous touring schedules & secret weddings) aside, Jay is still nicer than most of the MC’s on this list. I just don’t know if success has bred complacency.
3. Rick Ross- Don’t know how He managed to do it, but “The Boss” shook off the one hit wonder label and came back with an album better than most expected. Plus, steadily working, with features alongside artists ranging from Danity Kane to Shawty Lo have only broadened His appeal. Swag Rap at it’s finest, but I still wonder how long can He keep this up.
2. Lil’ Wayne- The most polarizing figure in Hip-Hop today. Even though His buzz has subsided some from last year & He’s thrown out some subpar material recently, when He’s on, He’s one of the best doin’ it.
1. Kanye West- Undisputed. Has managed to crossover without having to dumb down His music or sacrifice any creative integrity. Even tragedy couldn’t slow Him down. Whether it’s beats or rhymes, He continues to improve & impress.
*prepares to get picked apart by the vultures lol*
*still on my down w/ lists crusade, BUT*
I think it’s kinda hard to leave 50 off the list.
He took an L to Kanye, but still sold a tonnage. it may not be you, you, or you, but SOMEBODY’S buying his albums.
^ Oops! My bad…major omission. In My haste to make a list, I left off a major figure in Hip-Hop…TIP.
Guess Jay Electronica gets bumped to honorable mention and…
10. Joe Buddens.
9. Pusha T
8. Young Jeezy
7. T.I.- After a year of setbacks, both musically (with the lukewarm reception of “T.I. Vs. T.I.P.”) & personally (pleading guilty to three charges of illegal weapons possession), the Hip-Hop world eagerly awaits His forthcoming album, “Paper Trail”. Not only does He have to make up for His last album, but I think everyone wants to see exactly how His legal troubles will effect His music.
6. 50 Cent
5. Lupe Fiasco
4. Jay-Z
3. Rick Ross
2. Lil’ Wayne
1. Kanye West
Herein lies the issue…
95% of the free world has no clue who Budden is.
75% never mention Pusha or recognize his ability.
So how can they be included in the “hottest”?
It’s like voting a player for MVP when his team is mediocre.
It’s “My” hottest list…I considered the masses as well as the diehard Hip-Hop cats who should know who Buddens & Pusha are.
eeeyuck! (my pusha impersonation)
pusha has jeezy’s swag and twice his lyricism.
to gotty’s point if 95% don’t know Buddens, does that make him any less valid as an emcee?
was Rakim less valid because 90% of white america had no idea who he was throughout the ’80s but could probably recite MC Hammer or (then) Fresh Prince bar for bar?
maybe EPMD were just self-defeatists cowards for screaming keep the crossover. maybe they wanted it all along but were just too scared of rejection to say so outloud…
I don’t know anybody who can Fall Out Boy or Gym Class Heroes (?) out of a lineup if our family’s lives depended on it; but i’m sure their Top 10 status ain’t hurting as a result.
so who’s wrong?
Top 10 lists are just a reminder that someone else can dictate your culture and your validity to you.
besides, how can you have a top 10 list without–oh nevamind. lol.
When I hear the term MC I place it in a completely different category from lyricist or “the Trillest” ( those are my 3 categories in hip hop). An MC is someone who is bigger than just the music (read: mass appeal) and someone I wouldn’t mind going to see in concert b/c I now there’ll be some chicks there!
Face it…ain’t nobody gonna be at your MC Backpack concert but you and yo homeboys.
And top ten list are OK…It makes people think that their opinion actually matters.
Herein lies the issue…
95% of the free world has no clue who Budden is.
75% never mention Pusha or recognize his ability.
So how can they be included in the “hottest”?
It’s like voting a player for MVP when his team is mediocre.
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I think most people know who Budden is, but they just write him off as a one hit wonder. When I try to tell people that Joe Budden is the truth, they be like “you talkin about that Pump It Up nigga”? SMH……
An MC is someone who is bigger than just the music (read: mass appeal)
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to me, that’s the definition of a rapper as opposed to an MC.
I don’t have too many problems with this list. I think Weezy should be above Jay, I mean by sheer overload of material alone. But I can’t see anyone, who can be realistically added or removed. Obviously Budden and Pusha T, amongst others, are way better lyrically then Snoop, 50, Ross, but you gotta consider popularity and sales. The avg person couldn’t tell you who some of these other guys are who you think should be added, and that is why they aren’t considered hot.
Amps first list was on point. What was the name of T.I.’s last album? I really, REALLY hate to say this, but if we mention T.I. then “Mr. L-O” would also be up for consideration off one damn single. Don’t believe, go to Atlanta and find out!
BTW, like OED said, “SOMEBODY’S buying his (Fifs) albums.”
ROFLMAO
umm..
i think this list just shows how bad the “hot” mc’s are. no offense to them, its just who are how motherfuckers are promoted.
i’m not mad at the mainstream at all. i love shit to dance to and bounce with, but it looks kinda shitty when u make it a top 10 list.
one love..
on an unrelated note, i been lookin for:
LOOTPACK- SOUNDPIECES:da antidote
anyone help me out?
As always mtv makes a bs list to keep us talking.
I dont agee with this list but meh what does it matter. it will be another list 4 months down the road that wont make sense either.
That list was utter bullshit. MTV needs to just stop acting like they follow the game. I just saw that special and they were all talking out of their asses. lol
I have no problem with Kanye or Jay-Z’s place. But this lil wayne dicksucking has got to stop. How the fuck can you be on a list without a damn album within the last 2 or more years? FOH
Same with 3000, I love him and in terms of talent he is top 5 ever, but he doesn’t even drop mixtapes. He has no place on the list either.
It seems like they have a little 50 hate over at MTV. He has sold well over a million albums with Curtis, which is down for him and he’s jumping back into the mixtapes.
Rick Ross & Snoop ahead of 50? lol
The top 3 should be Ye, 50 & Jay in whatever order you like and wayne and 3000 have no business even making the list. I’d put Souljah Boy over both of them. At least he sold albums this year.
I’m not even choosing the people that I like, I’m just going by their own criteria. lol Most of their list I don’t even listen to, but I can understand if something or someone is hot even if I don’t like them.
This list is offensive to real emcees everywhere…
Priest Forever
Harlem’s Most Dangerous Emcee