On Wednesday, February 8th, 2023, Billboard and Vibe released the list of the greatest rappers of all time.

Ranked as the greatest is the legendary rapper and 27-time Grammy winner Shawn Carter, AKA Jay Z, whose illustrious career has spanned nearly three decades.

Speaking on the list, Billboard and Vibe say:

“So it took a lot of deliberation and deep discussion to reason our way to what we believe is a well-thought-out, authentic list that reflects hip-hop’s foundational pioneers, evolutionary trailblazers, and contemporary mainstays. In addition, that mix also encompasses 50 years of cultural milestones for a genre initially dismissed as a passing fad — and now recognized as the industry’s market-share leader.”

Flamboyant rapper Rick Ross debuts at No. 50, followed by Lauren Hill, a well-known rapper and musician, who is ranked 30th, and 50 Cent, a popular rapper and businessman.

Kanye West, a sound innovator and generational talent, is ranked 11th, which makes it odd that he didn't make the top 10.

Nicki Minaj is the highest-ranking female rapper on the Top 10 Greatest Rappers list, coming in at No. 10. Drake, the all-time best-selling rapper, is listed at position eight.

Lil Wayne is ranked No. 7 for his accomplishments and influence. Notorious B.I.G. and Tu Pac, two well-known rappers and rivals, are ranked No. 6 and No. 4, respectively.

10. Nicki Minaj

9. Snoop Dogg

8. Drake

7. Lil Wayne

6. The Notorious B.I.G

5. Eminem

4. Tu Pac

3. Nas

2. Kendrick Lamar

1. Jay Z