American hip-hop legend Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., widely known as Snoop Dogg, recently revealed his top three rappers of all time, sparking a wave of discussion across social media. Known for his distinct style, long-standing influence, and dynamic contributions to the rap and hip-hop industry, Snoop’s opinion on the genre’s greatest rappers has captivated fans and music lovers around the world. His choices were unveiled during an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” where he responded to a question from host Jimmy Kimmel about who he considers the three greatest rappers of all time. Without hesitation, Snoop named Slick Rick, Ice Cube, and himself as his all-time top picks.
Jimmy Kimmel asked Snoop, “Who are your top three greatest rappers of all time?” The veteran rapper responded confidently, listing Slick Rick, Ice Cube, and himself. This straightforward answer highlighted not only Snoop’s deep respect for these artists but also his belief in his own impact on the genre. Slick Rick, who is often credited for his storytelling abilities and unique style, has been an inspiration to many, including Snoop Dogg. Meanwhile, Ice Cube, a member of the pioneering rap group N.W.A, is celebrated for his raw lyricism and powerful voice, making him another significant influence in Snoop’s list. As for himself, Snoop’s inclusion reflects his sense of pride in his journey and contribution to hip-hop, as he is undeniably one of the most iconic figures in the genre.
The reveal, though simple in its delivery, quickly became a trending topic, especially on social media. Many fans and followers of hip-hop shared their reactions online, with some enthusiastically agreeing with Snoop’s choices, while others questioned the absence of certain iconic names. For example, fans were quick to point out that Snoop did not include widely acclaimed rappers such as Tupac Shakur (2Pac), The Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie), Jay-Z, and Eminem, all of whom are frequently mentioned in discussions about hip-hop’s greatest. These artists have achieved legendary status and are often considered pillars of the genre, making their exclusion from Snoop’s list a surprise to some.
Many fans praised Snoop for including Slick Rick, who is known for his clever storytelling and charismatic delivery, qualities that have influenced generations of rappers. Slick Rick’s unique voice and flow have earned him respect in the hip-hop community, with his style remaining influential decades after he first rose to fame. His tracks, such as “Children’s Story,” have left a lasting mark on the genre, and his influence is evident in the work of various artists who came after him, including Snoop Dogg.
Ice Cube, another of Snoop’s choices, is renowned for his bold lyrics and strong stance on social issues. His work with N.W.A. and solo career helped to shape the West Coast rap scene, introducing a new level of authenticity and grit to hip-hop. Ice Cube’s impact on rap music and culture is hard to overstate, as he has managed to maintain relevance through his music, film career, and advocacy for social change. Snoop’s admiration for Ice Cube reflects his respect for Cube’s trailblazing work and his commitment to using his platform to raise awareness on significant social issues.
Despite Snoop’s well-founded reasons for choosing these artists, the omission of Tupac Shakur, also known as 2Pac, raised eyebrows among fans. Tupac, known for his profound lyrics and deep emotional delivery, is often seen as one of the most influential rappers of all time. His music explored themes such as social inequality, police brutality, and inner-city struggles, resonating deeply with listeners and earning him a near-mythical status in hip-hop. Fans expressed surprise that Snoop, who shared a close friendship with Tupac and collaborated with him in the past, didn’t include him on his list.
The absence of The Notorious B.I.G., or Biggie, also stirred debate, as he is frequently celebrated for his storytelling, lyrical ability, and charisma. Biggie’s tracks, filled with vivid imagery and clever wordplay, continue to inspire rappers today. As one of the East Coast’s most revered figures, his influence spread far beyond his brief career, making him a frequent favorite in lists of the greatest rappers. Many fans expected Snoop to acknowledge Biggie’s legacy, especially given the impact Biggie had on shaping the competitive and creative spirit in hip-hop.
Additionally, Jay-Z’s omission was surprising to some, as he is often hailed as one of the most successful and influential rappers. With numerous awards, a vast discography, and an impressive career spanning several decades, Jay-Z’s impact on hip-hop and pop culture is indisputable. His lyrical skill, business acumen, and influence in both music and fashion have made him a monumental figure in the industry. Some fans took to social media to question why Snoop didn’t include Jay-Z, suggesting that his achievements and contributions are undeniably significant.
Eminem’s absence also became a talking point. Known for his technical prowess, intricate rhyme schemes, and boundary-pushing lyrics, Eminem is widely regarded as one of the most talented rappers of his generation. His music has connected with fans globally, and his influence on hip-hop is evident, especially among younger artists who admire his lyrical complexity. Many fans found it surprising that Snoop, who has collaborated with Eminem and previously expressed admiration for his skill, did not include him among his top three rappers.
In response to these reactions, Snoop has not made any additional comments. However, his list serves as a reminder of the subjective nature of music preferences, especially in a genre as diverse and complex as hip-hop. Personal connections, stylistic influences, and generational differences all play a role in shaping individual opinions about greatness. While some fans may disagree with Snoop’s choices, his list highlights the unique blend of storytelling, lyricism, and authenticity that each of his picks brings to the genre. By selecting Slick Rick, Ice Cube, and himself, Snoop Dogg has sparked an ongoing conversation about what defines greatness in hip-hop, proving that the debate over the best rappers is one that will continue to evolve with each generation.
