- DMX (Dark Man X): Known for his aggressive flow and raw, emotive lyrics, DMX rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s with hits such as "Ruff Ryders' Anthem", "Party Up (Up in Here)", and "X Gon' Give It to Ya." His unique vocal delivery and intense stage presence made him a standout artist in the hard core rap scene.
- Ice Cube: As a former member of the legendary rap group N.W.A., Ice Cube helped pioneer the gangsta rap genre. He later launched a successful solo career, known for tracks such as "It Was a Good Day," "Check Yo Self," and "Gangsta Rap Made Me Do It." Cube's lyrical storytelling, social commentary, and tough persona solidified his status as a hard core rap icon.
- Tupac Shakur: Often regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time, Tupac Shakur made a significant impact on hard core rap and the hip-hop scene in general. His powerful lyrics addressing social issues, violence, and personal struggles resonated with audiences. Tracks like "California Love," "Dear Mama," and "Hail Mary" showcase his lyrical skills and emotional depth.
- The Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls): Biggie Smalls emerged from Brooklyn, New York, and became one of the most influential figures in East Coast hip-hop. Known for his smooth, effortless flow and vivid storytelling, tracks such as "Juicy," "Big Poppa," and "Hypnotize" showcased his abilities and made him a hard core rap icon.
- Jay-Z: Although not exclusively a hard core rapper, Jay-Z's early work in the 1990s and his collaborations with other hard core artists contributed to his reputation in the genre. Tracks like "Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)" and his debut album, "Reasonable Doubt," demonstrated his lyrical skills and paved the way for his subsequent success in mainstream hip-hop.
It's important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and many other talented hard core rappers have contributed to the genre. The "best" rapper is ultimately a matter of personal taste and subjective evaluation.