Black Thought’s 10 favourite rappers of all time
Black Thought’s status is as a pioneer and the Philadelphia lyricist is an exceptional wordsmith who first emerged as part of the well-known collective The Roots. The emcee is renowned for his lyrical ability and extremely conscious lyrics alongside a very soulful and jazz-inspired type of sonic. The rapper is also a known poet, infusing his work with a literary poise.
The power of Black Thought’s pen is unfathomable, and his 2017 Funk Flex freestyle on HOT 97.0 showcased his flawless flow and lyrical versatility. The emcee’s music is extraordinarily Afro-centric and politically insightful.
Trotter was born to parents who were both part of the Black-Islamic religious movement, The Nation Of Islam and many of his inspirations were artists focusing on the state of African-American society. He has released three albums and three EPs.
The musician (real name Tariq Trotter) was a seminal member of The Roots, a hip-hop collective and band formed in the late 1980s by Trotter and his friend Ahmir ‘Questlove’ Thompson. Trotter is a potent lyricist. However, he admires an extensive list of rappers who are his peers.
The Roots were part of the East Coast’s jazz-hop movement in the 1980s, which was sparked by the likes of A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul. Black Thought has a lot of respect for those who paved the way, such as him and the late Malik B. In a 2022 virtual interview with Fatman Scoop, Trotter revealed who he would put on his top ten list of MCs. The list was a star-studded line-up.
Consisting primarily of East Coast artists, Black Thought’s list appeared to be heavily influenced by his regional roots in Philadelphia. Only one rapper didn’t come from the East Coast, and the two Philly legends made the top ten.
During the Instagram Live interview, “Black Thought reflected on other artists who shaped him. Revealing one, Trotter unveiled, “There are certain artists that are one-fifth of who I feel makes me up.”
He continued, “I occupy a dope space where most of the MCs that I have a certain level of respect for, that respect is mutual. That’s all the validity, that’s all really the accolades, that’s all my flowers while I’m still here.”
Concerning East Coast icons, there’s a wealth to choose from. Various legends have made an indelible impact on hip-hop culture, from the Wu-Tang Clan and Nas to Jay-Z and Grandmaster Flash. The East Coast has undeniably been a force to be reckoned with over the years.
You can see the full list of Black Thought’s top ten rappers below as well as watch his full interview with ‘Be Faithful’ emcee Fatman Scoop.
Black Thought’s 10 favourite rappers of all time:
- Rakim
- Chuck D (of Public Enemy)
- Kool G Rap
- Big Daddy Kane
- KRS-One
- The D.O.C.
- Rev Run (of Run-DMC)
- Schoolly D
- EST (of Three Times Dope)
- LL Cool J