@nav kaile True. MF and Aesop ... then Slug that only got honorable mention. Lets make our own list. Putting Aesop Roc and Doom as a split tie for #1 , Slug as #3, I'd put Rob Sonic in the 6/7 position. Circle the whole list with El-P's body of work... as an honorable mention with a crown.
I wondered about that myself and looked them up. Babygrande is still considered an indie label because they don't have a major publisher behind them (like all of those "small" labels that are actually subsidiaries of MGM, Universal, Virgin, etc.) Most artists are a part of some kind of label. RA is on Nature Sounds, Aesop is on Definitive Jux, etc.
he's been independent for his whole rap career except for the short period of time he was signed to ruthless records even though they didn't do shit for him. He started Funk Volume by himself, it was even his rp name at the very beginning and now it's undercover prodigy. get your facts straight.. he should definitely be on this list.
MF DOOM, Earl Sweatshirt, RA The Rugged Man should most definitely be higher on the list. MF DOOM could have been madvillian alone and Joey Bada$$ shouldn't just be an honorable mention
***** is the list called the most amazing top 10 rappers? i think u might be tripping joey was never independent at the beginning he had a group mostly managed and worked on by no other than capital steez then universal took over so no independence for him sry....
what about kool keith & E-40!!!??? they both have been in the game for over 30 years & became millionaires from being independent, through album sales, sold out concerts & marketing.
E40s always been hot but he's in the same class as that macelmore clown, not that he's a sell out like him, but rather that he's had a ton of mainstream success. He's been on multiple top 100 songs for weeks at a time.
Invectrum This list is about artists who did it WITHOUT a record label (be it major labels or small time labels) Vinnie Paz, Jus Allah and Stoupe the Enemy of Mankind (i.e. Jedi Mind Tricks) signed up with Babygrande Records which is a small time record label company which pushes to promote independent or group talent. I was thinking the same thing and was going to post in outrage before I realized the "conditions" of this list and that these guys don't fit what this list represents. The boys would fit more of "Top 10 most successful underground artists".
Nah, I'd rather replace those with Chuck D, Jeru The Damaja and KRS One. But I won't! But if I would, I would! How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck was Chuck Norris?
MF Doom is good but he's on the other level for me. There are way too many awesome artists and it's really hard making a choice. Also I'm not saying that #1 is the best and #5 is the worst, these are just 5 of my favorites, that's all. There is no "Best rapper", everyone does his own thing and is unique. You wouldn't compare a pair of shoes and an elephant, right? Sure you wouldn't, they're different things!
Tron CitronStreet the thing about this list is that it's independent rappers. Not hardcore underground. I like both and think they are great. Immortal technique deserves to be # 1. He has done a lot for the industry and is a pretty nice rapper. Revolutionary volume 1 and 2 are classics.
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no artist on the list have ever put out anything as good as MM FOOD, Madvillainy, or viktor vaughn; so why the fuck is MF DOOM not Number 1? ask some one who knows something first
no, anyone who knows jackshit about music would put DOOM as number 1. also what other artist on the list has put out an album as good or better than MM FOOD or Madvillainy ?
Where is El-P, High & Mighty, Apathy, Vinnie Paz, Buck 65, Del tha Funky Homosapien, Ill Bill, Necro, or Kool Keith??? I would've put any of these guys up as at least honorable mentions.
I was just flipping through these comments, about to flip a giant shit, then I found this comment. Thank GOD you commented about that man. He SO DESERVES this list.
Jordan Cohen He's very good, but he hasn't put anything out besides two mixtapes. He can't be put on the same level as legends yet because he's still just beginning his career. Give him time to prove himself as one of the potential greats and then he deserves a list.
Lotus Syndicate Yes, I appreciate earl very much as my friends and I ran into him, and he was supercool to us. (not many rappers are freindly to fans). Also his music kicks ass.
Come on Slug (atmosphere) one was once at the top of the underground and defined Midwestern underground. And you clearly have no EYEDEA (!!!!!!!!!!) what your talking about. Otherwize good list
Hopsin is the shittiest rapper to ever been born, he brings nothing to the table besides corny lyrics and shitty beats, his flow is ok though. Dizzy and Jarren are waaaaaay better than Hopsin, Knock Madness was regarded as one of the worst albums of 2014, he thinks he's the "savior of hip-hop"but he's actaully a giant cry baby who cries because everyone is better than him, (cuz actaully EVERYONE is better than him) and wants attention "dissing" rappers who are better by a mile like Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West, etc.
lmao dance with the devil is the go-to song for the kids who listen to "le real hip-hop" and automatically dismiss mainstream hip-hop even though there are rappers who are both extremely popular and talented. hopsin is almost 30 years old but has the mindset of a whiny 15 year old. dude relies on disses and shitty publicity stunts (e.g. the whole quitting rap and moving to australia thing) to get publicity. hopsin has the potential to be a good rapper if he rapped over other producers' beats instead of his own - a good example being his feature on tech n9ne's song "am i a psycho"
+Moroco Taco Then Tech N9ne and R.A. The Rugged Man shouldn't be there. He was singed but he ain't on Ruthless anymore tho. He is independent cus he did it independent. But reason why no one cared that he on this is cus He corny af.
The list kinda seems to focus only on "conscious rappers". What about Mac Miller(who recently signed, but was on an indie label), or Hopsin? I didn't quite understand the reason for not including Macklemore, doesn't his mainstream success add to his credibility. Bare in mind, I do love the music of the guys on the list, just speculating.
I love Jedi Mind Tricks, AOTP and a lot of other artists associated with the Babygrande label, but fuck Babygrande Records. They pretty much pull any video off of RUclips that features their music. I remember one dude made the complaint that the very video that got him into Vinnie Paz, a sick tribute video with over 50000 views at the time, got removed because of a copyright claim from Babygrande. The majors have been guilty of this in the past, but they don't go over the top like Babygrande Records does.
57Royston to be fair a good few independent labels are tough with claims. For example before they uploaded it themselves you couldnt find Madvilliany on RUclips as the rights holder pulled them as fast as the songs could be posted.
getting chills and feeling sick to my stomach whenever i hear it! One hell of a song to deliver emotions and message. too bad the bonus part kinda ruins it :/
Simmepe0 Really? I loved the bonus part. Tech and Diabolik ripped that to shreds. I guess it's not in the same context as the song itself, it's more like a separate quick track that they probably thought was too short for a full song.
Barcs yeah! I loved the part but you are kind of fucked up after listening tp the song and then they just hook you up with som kind of "disstrack" directly after. Kind of kills the mood after him talkin about how you should not follow the devils path then follows up with the roughest killing track ever xD
I feel many were missed in this list, but I can I respect who they put at #1 and number #2, like tech-9 is amazing all round, and if you heard "Dance with the Devil" you know exactly why Immortal Technique has a reason for being #1. But yeah, I think quite a few were missed, I mean I have my biases on who I would switch on the list for sure, but some people like Lil' Dicky and Chance deserved to be on this list. Some less popular rappers I wish could be on the list, but prob wouldn't make it, would be Phora and Witt Lowry, and Ryan Oakes.
"Dance with the Devil." - That's just one song and it's the only song I ever see mentioned when it comes to IT. I'm sure he has much more amazing stuff but it kind of seems like this one song has created a ridiculous cult following. Tbh, I'm beginning to think he might be overrated.
thagrammarnazi yeah they base their lists on blogs and such and even said that they base it on a single good performance. Like my favorite underground rapper k-rino would say: "You can't compare a couple of months with decades of greatness" But then again i'm also happy that I posses a treasure of underground music waiting to be discovered.
I can’t believe this list was composed more than 4 years ago. I will not lie - this article introduced to me to so many great artists it’s one of my favorite RUclips videos I’ve ever watched.
When I found this as a kid it changed my life forever. Specifically, MF DOOM, Earl Sweatshirt, Danny Brown, Death Grips, Aesop Rock, and Action Bronson all introduced me to later music taste and I’m forever grateful.
This list should really be called: "10 mid-stream indy rappers that mainstream listeners now know about due to RUclips." Although I'm a big fan of most of the emcees on that list, I can name about 100 other emcees that I also enjoy and hold to the same esteem: Slug (from Atmosphere), Jean Grae, Mr. Life, Blueprint, Planet Asia, 7 L & Esoteric, EL-P, Del (and all of Hiero), Ras Kass, Mos Def, Canibus (maybe he doesn't count, since he used to be mainstream), Jedi Mind Tricks, Cannibal Ox, Blackalicious, and the list goes on and on... Go to this site: ughh.com
Just got chills to know Aesop made this list! you guys actually do your work from what i see so far in this list. havent finished yet though . I'll get back to this when I'm done. I don't comment on youtube often, but this a topic I have strong opinions on. So for me to stop it and type this says something.
Whoever wrote this did a great job. Either the research is great, or the writer has an eclectic taste. I have three criticisms that are probably more of a personal preference, but I feel should have been addressed. First Slug was only an honorable mention, I thought he would be number one. (I mean really I.T. as #1?). Second, no mention of El-P? Third, I know the label is newer(ish), and has more than just hiphop, But Fake four Records run by Ceschi Ramos should have gotten a mention. Ceschi is a major gift to the independent hiphop and music scene altogether.
Shoulda been 2nd or 3rd with tech as #1 can’t see how immortal technique was #1 or even top five of that list considering the other artists who should have been on the list that weren’t
Ashton Pleasant I´m not american and my first language is not english, so it´s harder for me to know the american underground scene but I knew bones although I only had heard 3 or 4 of these rappers
Tech is #1 1. Has his own style, he don't label his self as rap eather. 2. Has his own label, also has signed ppl over as well. 3. Has alot of songs that are good. 4. Has a hart for his fans. 5. Came up from nothing
fuck yes!!! Immortal Technique is my number one long live the revolution and every person on here are my faves too but where was Jedi Mind Tricks and MadChild
I put one some Jedi Mind Tricks right after watching this list haha. I haven't been up to date on the new Vinnie Paz shit. It's dope, and nice to see he's getting millions of views.
realistically technique is one of the realest mc's out there his music is deep as fuck and his knowledge about governmental politic stuff is far beyond your imagination just listen to his song named creation and destruction and you will see he is a insane lyricist
I am a fan of Immortal Technique, Tech N9ne and Dead Prez so thanks for that list! As influence Technique is number 1 yes, as capitalisation it would be Tech N9ne. Also if you can add brittsh rappers that would be Lowkey and maybe Mic Righteous
good to see some of the better rappers getting recognition for once, thanks for making this video watch mojo. my only criticism is that doom should be #1 and rugged man should be higher up on the list, other than that awesome list!
Michael Papamarkou But technique has a stronger base and network. No disrespect to doom or rugged man but technique is still going to hit the hip hop scene more and his influence has been greater.
Doom will always be #1 when ur talking about underground artists. The dude has so much classic shit. Also his definitely the best rapper/producer ever, only guy I can think of that comes close is RZA
I am sure you will get flooded with suggestions, BUT K-Rino should get at LEAST an honorable mention. He just released 7 Albums at ONE time and the mayor of Houston gave the man his own day for crying out loud ...
Slug/Atmosphere deserves to be #1 Rhymesayers Entertainment's roster could fill this list alone. Also, no love to Sage Francis is a huge mistake. you could make an entire top 10 list of rappers that watch mojo forgot about or intentionally left out of this list because, frankly they don't seem to know what the hell they're talking about. Slug Sage Astronautalis Doomtree (or any member of) Scroobius Pip Chance the Rapper Murs El-P any of the rest of the Living Legends Eyedea
Mtg Biggie fuck slug and atmosphere! Slug and Ant are both pretentious douche bags who unfortunately fooled their fans into thinking they were real caring, feeling human beings. They’re only there to rape your eardrums and take advantage, trust me, live show meetings these 2 are straight up douchebags
TJ Anderson that’s cool that they were cool with you, when they came to my city I went to the merch table to buy myself and my buddy a shirt they started talking shit about me buying for my “boyfriend” buddy just didn’t have money and they started talking gay shit, really unimpressed and since then I refuse to support, I’m down with Brother Ali and the rest of Rhyme Sayers but slug and ant lost a big supporter with that noise never supporting them again
"the king of the independent rap scene, Immortal Technique" No way. "His third album cracked the Billboard 200" Yeah, and Tech N9ne's consistently break top ten rap albums the weeks they drop. Heck, artists Tech N9ne signs underneath him CONSISTENTLY make Billboard 200. And if you're going by raw talent, then Tech N9ne should be number 2, but Pharoahe Monch should be number 1. Also, Slug as an honorable mention but Earl Sweatshirt on the list is ridiculous.
this comment all day long. cannibal ox and company flow easily put out two of the best underground/indie rap albums of all time. period. and death grips is just dope. but most likely not everyone would be too pleased to have mc ride on this list.
And btw hes kinda right, before his debut album logic was undercontract with def jam but had unlimited creativity, they didnt ask to put their name on any of logics work from 2011-2014. Visionary Group is technically his own label... So hes kinda independent
What about Mac miller? He made it crazy big being independent. Didn't he even break a record for the most independent sales?? I know he's signed now I think it was a 10m contract but still. As an independent artist he did a lot.
You bet! I'm a Christian myself, and so I can sympathize with how he raps of the doubts Hopsin has sometimes about his faith, though I envy that he has Lecrae (perhaps the greatest Christian rapper alive) as a personal councilor.
What about Flatbush Zombies ?
YESSIR
Yeah I came here to see if they were on the list. >_>
whoa whoa
They should be on this list they aren't too popular and they started their own label
I know you didn’t just rank someone above MetalFace DOOM
Oboys Gay Hypocrisy
No one's above k rino or doom
@nav kaileTAKE THAT SHIT BACK
@nav kaile True. MF and Aesop ... then Slug that only got honorable mention. Lets make our own list. Putting Aesop Roc and Doom as a split tie for #1 , Slug as #3, I'd put Rob Sonic in the 6/7 position. Circle the whole list with El-P's body of work... as an honorable mention with a crown.
@Goopy Le Grande Nah man DOOM is not overrated even if he becomes twice as famous. He is too talented to be overrated.
Kind of sad to see Jedi Mind Tricks not even an honourable mention. They have been a major force in indie hip hop for over 20 years.
I wondered about that myself and looked them up. Babygrande is still considered an indie label because they don't have a major publisher behind them (like all of those "small" labels that are actually subsidiaries of MGM, Universal, Virgin, etc.) Most artists are a part of some kind of label. RA is on Nature Sounds, Aesop is on Definitive Jux, etc.
paz and jedi mind own the indie game.
I get it a major force :) but really he is pretty good
Oh snap, I didn't even see what I did there lol
jedi mind for the win but yet i dont think they have as much as a following as others.
Immortal Technique good number 1 choice, Peace !
Over here thinking how the hell is Hopsin not on this list.
he's not that's why
wasnt independent at the time
How so? he's always been with FV unlit lately. He started Funk Volume. I'm with esai padilla, he needs to be mentioned here.
he's been independent for his whole rap career except for the short period of time he was signed to ruthless records even though they didn't do shit for him. He started Funk Volume by himself, it was even his rp name at the very beginning and now it's undercover prodigy. get your facts straight.. he should definitely be on this list.
Hopsin for life
MF DOOM, Earl Sweatshirt, RA The Rugged Man should most definitely be higher on the list. MF DOOM could have been madvillian alone and Joey Bada$$ shouldn't just be an honorable mention
+Cian Griffith joey shouldnt be on this list at all
+GNX that was later, he made his fame with his Earl mixtape
+TheWesnik you're tripping Joey is amazing
+Cian Griffith AB-so fuckin lootley!!!!!
***** is the list called the most amazing top 10 rappers? i think u might be tripping joey was never independent at the beginning he had a group mostly managed and worked on by no other than capital steez then universal took over so no independence for him sry....
*MF DOOM all caps when you spell man's name
Damn right
Fuck.
RIP
Correct
They put Joey Badass in honourable mentions lol
It was 6 years ago so...
Joey ain’t underground like that anymore
what about kool keith & E-40!!!??? they both have been in the game for over 30 years & became millionaires from being independent, through album sales, sold out concerts &
marketing.
E40s always been hot but he's in the same class as that macelmore clown, not that he's a sell out like him, but rather that he's had a ton of mainstream success. He's been on multiple top 100 songs for weeks at a time.
Vinnie Paz of Jedi Mind Tricks and Slug of Atmosphere are two of the biggest in the independent scene. They both deserved spots.
That's what I'm saying! Where da fuck is vinnie Paz?
***** They already talk about R.A. working with everyone, he has definitely working with AOTP
They should there more of there own thing they have a label there video is about ones who made it with out one
Invectrum This list is about artists who did it WITHOUT a record label (be it major labels or small time labels) Vinnie Paz, Jus Allah and Stoupe the Enemy of Mankind (i.e. Jedi Mind Tricks) signed up with Babygrande Records which is a small time record label company which pushes to promote independent or group talent.
I was thinking the same thing and was going to post in outrage before I realized the "conditions" of this list and that these guys don't fit what this list represents. The boys would fit more of "Top 10 most successful underground artists".
Slug is one of the most poetic/clever rappers of all time, the fact he got honorable mention makes me sick
In my opinion Top 5 should've been:
1. Aesop Rock
2. Tech N9ne
3. Vinnie Paz
4. Slug (Atmosphere)
5. Hopsin
Nah, I'd rather replace those with Chuck D, Jeru The Damaja and KRS One. But I won't! But if I would, I would!
How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck was Chuck Norris?
+The Blank No MF nr.1 no list
MF Doom is good but he's on the other level for me. There are way too many awesome artists and it's really hard making a choice.
Also I'm not saying that #1 is the best and #5 is the worst, these are just 5 of my favorites, that's all. There is no "Best rapper", everyone does his own thing and is unique.
You wouldn't compare a pair of shoes and an elephant, right? Sure you wouldn't, they're different things!
***** I'm not even going to comment on the elephant shoe thing
+The Blank Hopsin is not independent
TechN9ne!
Technician I am, wholeheartedly
In life, and, in death.
Technician for life 🔥✊
STRANGE!!!
HOW IS JOEY BADA$$ NOT HERE? 1999 was an amazing mixtape, B4DA$$ was out of this world.
I was pretty upset too man he shoulda at least cracked top ten......but they did give him an honorable mention
I'm upset lil b wasn't here tho
Tron CitronStreet the thing about this list is that it's independent rappers. Not hardcore underground. I like both and think they are great. Immortal technique deserves to be # 1. He has done a lot for the industry and is a pretty nice rapper. Revolutionary volume 1 and 2 are classics.
thediltarget I can respect that dog
12:09 did u see him
Hopsin? Futuristic? Joey Bada$$?
+Lwke yes he did
Lwke yeah he came into the rap game about 3-4 years ago bro
+Lachlan Cuzner he didn't blow up until not too long ago
99prototypes true, that's probably why he wasn't on this list, but he should be now, because, put it this way he's my second favorite rapper now.
Futuristic should have been on this list i agree
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no artist on the list have ever put out anything as good as MM FOOD, Madvillainy, or viktor vaughn; so why the fuck is MF DOOM not Number 1? ask some one who knows something first
Pierre x It's all opinion based. Just because you think MF DOOM should be number 1 does not mean someone else does.
no, anyone who knows jackshit about music would put DOOM as number 1. also what other artist on the list has put out an album as good or better than MM FOOD or Madvillainy ?
Top 10 Australian hip hop?
Eminem should be on there
9:40 ALL CAPS when you spell the man's name!
RIP
Where's Ice JJ Fish?
Toney Liakakis thats what im sayin
Heck Yeah!!
I swear he should have at least got an honorable mention because that dudes a legend
At his home
Ah HA HA
MF DOOM is really the best, always number1!
Good list, i think hopsin deserved a mention though
that's what I said
no doubt
L
I was just thinking that
Hospin is garbage
Where is El-P, High & Mighty, Apathy, Vinnie Paz, Buck 65, Del tha Funky Homosapien, Ill Bill, Necro, or Kool Keith??? I would've put any of these guys up as at least honorable mentions.
Tech N9ne is literally the most famous independent rapper known
(x) false ( ) true
Chance
+Evan Visnick Is garbage
Tech can kill it.
besides macklemore lol
Chance the rapper
I was just flipping through these comments, about to flip a giant shit, then I found this comment. Thank GOD you commented about that man. He SO DESERVES this list.
Jordan Cohen lool you're welcome
Jordan Cohen He's very good, but he hasn't put anything out besides two mixtapes. He can't be put on the same level as legends yet because he's still just beginning his career. Give him time to prove himself as one of the potential greats and then he deserves a list.
Although he is talented, he didn't really make it on his own. Childish Gambino boosted him to the top.
fair enough, I wasn't saying he has to be on the list but they did ask who our favourite indie artists are and he is one of mine Nick Koford
1. MF Doom
2. Earl Sweatshirt
3. Run The Jewels
4. MF Grimm
5. Hush
6. Joey Bada$$
7. Quasimoto
8. Jemini
9. Black Milk
10. The Pharcyde
agreed
G-Eazy? Number 1!
HUSH? mc Hush the one that eminem basically promoted for 5 mins ?
Jeff V get out, MF DOOM for #1
rtj is boring.
1)DOOM
2)MF DOOM
3)DANGER DOOM
4)MADVILLIAN
5)VIKTOR VAUGH
6) mad liv
When I see comments like where's Hoodie Allen, Hopsin and Macklemore it kills me a little inside.
HAHAHAHA! Me too. Hopsin makes me want to drown a basket of kittens.
Lol I died when they said Earl Sweatshirt's name
can you explain to me why?
Earl might be young but he deserves to be on this list
Lotus Syndicate Yes, I appreciate earl very much as my friends and I ran into him, and he was supercool to us. (not many rappers are freindly to fans). Also his music kicks ass.
Danny brown should be more than an honorable mention
how tf is joey badass and honorable meantion
he's 19 rn and tear in it up bro he dropped 6 mix tapes between the age of 16 and 18 he's a beast
this is an older video
hes 21 bruh
Anyway he was like 17 when he droped his first mixtape 1999 and it's by far the best mixtape I ever heard !
god damn! i been bumpin that shit for a while and i had no idea he was 17......
Come on Slug (atmosphere) one was once at the top of the underground and defined Midwestern underground. And you clearly have no EYEDEA (!!!!!!!!!!) what your talking about. Otherwize good list
Dance With The Devil is one of the realest songs ever.. Surprised Hopsin isnt on the list btw.
Hopsin is the shittiest rapper to ever been born, he brings nothing to the table besides corny lyrics and shitty beats, his flow is ok though. Dizzy and Jarren are waaaaaay better than Hopsin, Knock Madness was regarded as one of the worst albums of 2014, he thinks he's the "savior of hip-hop"but he's actaully a giant cry baby who cries because everyone is better than him, (cuz actaully EVERYONE is better than him) and wants attention "dissing" rappers who are better by a mile like Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West, etc.
lmao dance with the devil is the go-to song for the kids who listen to "le real hip-hop" and automatically dismiss mainstream hip-hop even though there are rappers who are both extremely popular and talented. hopsin is almost 30 years old but has the mindset of a whiny 15 year old. dude relies on disses and shitty publicity stunts (e.g. the whole quitting rap and moving to australia thing) to get publicity. hopsin has the potential to be a good rapper if he rapped over other producers' beats instead of his own - a good example being his feature on tech n9ne's song "am i a psycho"
+I Speak Swaghili. I disagree.hopsin is dope
wolfshaun Hell yeah, you can't denie his flow and lyrics. Funk volume is great
Because he's a 2/10 rapper
Immortal Technique better be on here
#1 lets go.
He's a underground rapper tho
XTC DOOM better be on there! LOL
XTC Yo i thought the exact same shit!!! and i saw his ass in the cypher i was like, Awwww shit
@@polostewartjr6216 So? That's basically a badge of honor, has been for the last 20+ years.
Tech N9ne!
should been #1 but immortal isn't a bad #1 but I was really expecting tech to be #1 since he's been the #1 for like what 9 yrs
+DaTechn9cian right!
+DaTechn9cian who gives a shit, almost everyone on that list is better than tech n9ne
+Alfred Cornflake and sister lol
tech nine is garbage
so no Kool Keith or Deltron 3030?
Border Bandit should def be on the list! 100% agreed
Deltron 3030 is a group. Maybe you were thinking of Del tha Funkee Homosapien?
No Del, Kool Keith, or el-p smh
What about Canibus?
How the fuck is Del nowhere on this?
Agreed. Deltron 3030 is one of the best hip hop records of all time.
RIGHT? I was looking around the comments like why tf nonbody fuck with Del? Love 3030
And like a decade later Deltron Event II came out and was ill. Underrated group.
Del is awesome, fell in love with him with his stuff with the gorillaz.
Josh Ben-Dan its a Damn shame
No Joey Badass, Hopsin, or Chance the Rapper
+micah “WhiteChocolateThunder” white hopsin is straight trash dude gtfo
+micah “WhiteChocolateThunder” white hopsin sounds like a dick without a hole
hopsin ain't independent brother he was signed to ruthless kinda a big deal
+Moroco Taco Then Tech N9ne and R.A. The Rugged Man shouldn't be there. He was singed but he ain't on Ruthless anymore tho. He is independent cus he did it independent. But reason why no one cared that he on this is cus He corny af.
+Moroco Taco he was signed but in the beginning they said they could be signed to a major record label. He deserves to be on this list.
The list kinda seems to focus only on "conscious rappers". What about Mac Miller(who recently signed, but was on an indie label), or Hopsin? I didn't quite understand the reason for not including Macklemore, doesn't his mainstream success add to his credibility. Bare in mind, I do love the music of the guys on the list, just speculating.
Hopsin has retired and moved to Australia.
Stanley Murrill H e made a video saying that was a joke he's coming out with a new album this year.
Actually Stanley he put out a video that said he was joking.
RKO619SONC I'll have to check for that video. Thanks for the info.
All three of them are trash tho
10: Dizzy Wright
9: Aesop Rock
8: Immortal Technique
7: Talib Kweli
6: R.A The Rugged Man
5: Action Bronson
4: Brother Ali
3: Tech N9ne
2: Joey Bada$$
1: MF DOOM
Alright list. Mine:
10 Danny Brown
9 Del
8 JMT
7 Immortal Technique
6 RA the Rugged Man
5 Cannibal Ox
4 Aesop Rock
3 Pharoahe Monch
2 EL-P
1 MF Doom
You have dizzy wright but no Hopsin
@@masterpiecelord7496 because Hopsin is ass
@@seanquinn4540 damn Danny Brown and DOOM are my 2 favorite rappers of all time
Jedi Mind Tricks is No.1
Jmt 4 life
Steffen Flindt true story yo. Vinnie Paz and Stoupe love that group. Me myself i was hoping to see ill bill or maybe hopsin on this list too
I love Jedi Mind Tricks, AOTP and a lot of other artists associated with the Babygrande label, but fuck Babygrande Records. They pretty much pull any video off of RUclips that features their music. I remember one dude made the complaint that the very video that got him into Vinnie Paz, a sick tribute video with over 50000 views at the time, got removed because of a copyright claim from Babygrande. The majors have been guilty of this in the past, but they don't go over the top like Babygrande Records does.
Steffen Flindt true!!!!
57Royston to be fair a good few independent labels are tough with claims. For example before they uploaded it themselves you couldnt find Madvilliany on RUclips as the rights holder pulled them as fast as the songs could be posted.
immortal technique dance with the devil is such a fcked up song just hearing part of it gave me goosebumps
No doubt. Classic track there.
getting chills and feeling sick to my stomach whenever i hear it! One hell of a song to deliver emotions and message. too bad the bonus part kinda ruins it :/
Simmepe0
Really? I loved the bonus part. Tech and Diabolik ripped that to shreds. I guess it's not in the same context as the song itself, it's more like a separate quick track that they probably thought was too short for a full song.
Barcs yeah! I loved the part but you are kind of fucked up after listening tp the song and then they just hook you up with som kind of "disstrack" directly after. Kind of kills the mood after him talkin about how you should not follow the devils path then follows up with the roughest killing track ever xD
Its called horrorcore.
Why is Chance the Rapper not on this list? 10 Day and Acid Rap are classic mix tapes
+jacob willis 10 Day is amazing!
+Yoeri Kurvers Yes!
He was featured on the 'top 10 rappers of the new school' list, I guess they wanted to avoid repetition.
+NewLeftFun and now coloring book
truE
They got my boys Ali and Tech in here, respect 💯
tech n9ne looks like hes casting spells when rhyming
He really does...kinda like he's making us hit replay cuz we know he's that badass
Hahahaha
Haha tru.. He always does that, just like how he says cha after every bar
Jacob Peters clever lol
but like chance the rapper?
I just don't understand
this was released before the life of pablo and coloring book
+gr4p3r!n0 I loved him for a while when he had only dropped acid rap and 10 day
Max Peters Yes his first 2 mixtapes were also very good, but I think the reason he wasnt on the list was because he only had 2 mixtapes at the time
Meanwhile they ignore insanely prolific artists like Busdriver
Action Bronson raps make me hungry
😂I feel you
Efraín Ram Mick Jenkins raps make me better.
+Cam CANTrun *thirsty
GRANDM@$TER Better. There was no typo there my dude.
I know lol I was just making a stupid joke. Thank god for the waters.
I feel many were missed in this list, but I can I respect who they put at #1 and number #2, like tech-9 is amazing all round, and if you heard "Dance with the Devil" you know exactly why Immortal Technique has a reason for being #1. But yeah, I think quite a few were missed, I mean I have my biases on who I would switch on the list for sure, but some people like Lil' Dicky and Chance deserved to be on this list. Some less popular rappers I wish could be on the list, but prob wouldn't make it, would be Phora and Witt Lowry, and Ryan Oakes.
"Dance with the Devil." - That's just one song and it's the only song I ever see mentioned when it comes to IT. I'm sure he has much more amazing stuff but it kind of seems like this one song has created a ridiculous cult following. Tbh, I'm beginning to think he might be overrated.
Haven't watched the video yet
i'm expecting Immortal Technique as #1 or #2
+Julio Zambrano I was expecting Tech N9ne for #1, and still think he should be, but Immortal Technique def has a place at the top.
+Mike Boglio Yeah, I was expecting Tech at #1, but they at least got one of the few I ain't mad at for taking that spot.
I was expecting soldier hard to be on there but people are to stupid to even realize the talent in him
+Meme Iselfaneye
I was expecting either Tech Nine, Immortal Technique or Slug at #1
I'm surprised Slug didn't even make the list
money and popularity wise... tech, hopsin, necro, ali, atmosphere (RIP Eyedea)
No Krispy Kreme ?
***** dont mess with froggy fresh cus youl get dunked on! lol
Rest In Power Daniel Dumile aka MF DOOM (09/01/1971 - 31/10/2019)
Immortal Technique is good but the man who created the greatest independent record label isn't number 1? Guess it's too ^S^trange for WM.
Anthony Reynoso no that’s some fucking garbage MF DOOM should have been first
what about vinnie paz ?
+SeriouStuff AOTP Vinnie Paz even underrated in the underground scene its a shame
+SeriouStuff mojo is just a bias based bullshit channel
+0Diazzz0 I get the feeling they just wanted as much variety in the list as possible.
yo, i havent seen oddisee either..
thagrammarnazi yeah they base their lists on blogs and such and even said that they base it on a single good performance. Like my favorite underground rapper k-rino would say: "You can't compare a couple of months with decades of greatness" But then again i'm also happy that I posses a treasure of underground music waiting to be discovered.
Really surprised joey badass didn't make the list.
I know Capital should be on it too
I can’t believe this list was composed more than 4 years ago. I will not lie - this article introduced to me to so many great artists it’s one of my favorite RUclips videos I’ve ever watched.
So a independent rapper becoming super mainstream by making really good music takes away his credibility as a independent artist?
Yeah, that seems a bit arbitrary. On the other hand however having Macklemore in the list denies one of these other guys a spot.
Eduardo Taveras yes
Eduardo Taveras Yeah, people are retarded my friend.
Eduardo Taveras i agree bullshit
Eduardo Taveras you just said really good music. Hah. Loooooooser
Ice JJ Fish?
Good job, potato, that actually made me laugh.
Gavin Mahoney Funniest rapper award! lol
That cake looks good Gavin. Is it red Velvet?
8luvbug You bet.
Expecting Immortal Technique , Do not disappoint me !
the first time you don't shit on us !
When I found this as a kid it changed my life forever. Specifically, MF DOOM, Earl Sweatshirt, Danny Brown, Death Grips, Aesop Rock, and Action Bronson all introduced me to later music taste and I’m forever grateful.
Aesop rock has a new release. Just in case you were turned off because he seemed to be done with the game. Nope, still going.
Pizza Guy do you like it? I think it’s awesome
Hes dropping dopesick tracks
damn, not even an honorable mention for Jedi Mind Tricks or Army of the Pharaohs
I know right!?!?
AOTP is a supergroup/collective.
VINNIE PAZ!!
wwechampionshipsux75 BOXCUTTER PAZZY
JMT I feel are either hit or miss
This list should really be called: "10 mid-stream indy rappers that mainstream listeners now know about due to RUclips."
Although I'm a big fan of most of the emcees on that list, I can name about 100 other emcees that I also enjoy and hold to the same esteem: Slug (from Atmosphere), Jean Grae, Mr. Life, Blueprint, Planet Asia, 7 L & Esoteric, EL-P, Del (and all of Hiero), Ras Kass, Mos Def, Canibus (maybe he doesn't count, since he used to be mainstream), Jedi Mind Tricks, Cannibal Ox, Blackalicious, and the list goes on and on...
Go to this site: ughh.com
for real I also been digging most of the Strange Famous crew and Swordplay is one of my altime favs
Jedi Mind Tricks is the shit. What about the Alchemist?
dissapointed that atmosphere wasn't in this, but I'm glad brother Ali was, they are both unbelievable. truely talented.
+XRIDER0002 deserves more than just a mention..
+macnolds most def is my personal fav
Just got chills to know Aesop made this list! you guys actually do your work from what i see so far in this list. havent finished yet though . I'll get back to this when I'm done. I don't comment on youtube often, but this a topic I have strong opinions on. So for me to stop it and type this says something.
Whoever wrote this did a great job. Either the research is great, or the writer has an eclectic taste. I have three criticisms that are probably more of a personal preference, but I feel should have been addressed. First Slug was only an honorable mention, I thought he would be number one. (I mean really I.T. as #1?). Second, no mention of El-P? Third, I know the label is newer(ish), and has more than just hiphop, But Fake four Records run by Ceschi Ramos should have gotten a mention. Ceschi is a major gift to the independent hiphop and music scene altogether.
aesop should have been higher
Flouride Rinse Agreed
Flouride Rinse yeah him and slug
Shoulda been 2nd or 3rd with tech as #1 can’t see how immortal technique was #1 or even top five of that list considering the other artists who should have been on the list that weren’t
Should have been lower
Check out Yonas
He's really good (IMO)
Yea he's really underrated
yea
I was kind of hoping to see hopsin on this list
I wanted lil b
Ah nah he's super cheesy and for that crowd who think they're being super deep get that shit outta here
Rick Wilson Based God
Rick Wilson
Lil B was part of a group at first, so I don't think he qualifies.
Hopsin is trash
Beautiful list. Well done. Only complaint is hoping wasn't mentioned
To put Doom at 3 and aes at 9 is blasphemy.
They should be similar
DOOM should be 2 or 1 honestly
5. blu
4. vinnie paz
3. aesop rock
2. R.A.
1. Mf doom
xavier wulf? pouya? bones? denzel curry? chris travis?
Shut the fuck up.....
no you shut the fuck up
kamal brooks they're up their no doubt they're redefining the underground scene but theyre not top 10. Respect though #teamsesh
Ashton Pleasant I´m not american and my first language is not english, so it´s harder for me to know the american underground scene but I knew bones although I only had heard 3 or 4 of these rappers
kamal brooks stop bitchin bitch
Tech is #1
1. Has his own style, he don't label his self as rap eather.
2. Has his own label, also has signed ppl over as well.
3. Has alot of songs that are good.
4. Has a hart for his fans.
5. Came up from nothing
this sounds like a guy named hopsin
Facts
Fuck no
Dance with the Devil is one of the best Tracks i've ever heard. His Message and Story is so emotional and deep. He reminds me of 2pac somehow
How tf is chance not at least number 5 let alone not even including him in the honorable mentions !
yessssss
I dont think he has any recognition when this was released
Ethan Thomas Acid Rap came out in 2013
+BasedGod really god damn than theg dont think is shit
acid rap ... ...? 2013...??? no no no ESHAM is the originator of acid rap wayyyy back when
fuck yes!!! Immortal Technique is my number one long live the revolution and every person on here are my faves too but where was Jedi Mind Tricks and MadChild
this was the first time I've seen these videos were I agreed
That's what I'm saying... how you not gonna mention Jedi Mind Tricks or just Vinnie Paz in general
+Mr. duck yes live it when people know my music it's rare
+Mr. fuck yes love it when someone else knows my music it's rare
I put one some Jedi Mind Tricks right after watching this list haha. I haven't been up to date on the new Vinnie Paz shit. It's dope, and nice to see he's getting millions of views.
I LOVE EARL OMFG THANK YOU SO MUCH
I haven't watched this video yet but if immortal technique isn't on the list then there is something wrong
numba 1
of honorable mentions...
realistically technique is one of the realest mc's out there
his music is deep as fuck and his knowledge about governmental politic stuff is far beyond your imagination
just listen to his song named creation and destruction and you will see he is a insane lyricist
Laxus Dreyar Id enjoy debating him. He has no idea what he's talking about. No one who advocates for communism does.
No Ab-Soul..If you make a Second list consider him..Listen to Longtermetality and Control System...
Under top dawg along with school boy jay rock kendrick and others I can't remember right now
s103792....True But still hella underrated
DOOM #1
if you put ab on there you can put mac on there as well. maybe make a top ten but like number one is number 11:P
ab is better than Mac
Good job mojo, i was going to trip is tech wasn't on here was so ready to go hard, but you passed good job, keep making those $$$
+SDR Worley if*
^S^
Dammmmmnnn! You have some of my absolute favorite emcees on this list including the honorable mentions... WOW!
Mc’s lmaooo
So where is Hopsin?
not being mention he sucks
Dylan Dayton
How? Just because he can be a bit cheesy?
Randy Brooks lol genius.com/discussions/131659-Why-hopsins-lyrics-are-good
***** You know a lot for being a hater.
he should of at least been an honorable mention -.-
Really? Joey Bada$$ is an honorable mention, he is wayyy better than the first 6 you guys listed. He should atleast be on the list
I can't do nothing but agree with you.
Way better than Aesop, R.A. and Earl? pls
darko1295 Exactly, this dude must be 14.
darko1295 His delivery and flow is better than those in my opinion
darko1295 Earl has no substance when he rap it's just rambling bull shit. Earl does have a monster ass flow. But his lyrics dont compare to badass.
You tease me with Death Grips
They were signed to a major label...
ZAPPED916 That was later in their career, I'm pretty sure.
+RealRasmus Not indie at all spent less then 2 years unsigned.
Johnny Raven SPEAKING OF DEATH GRIPS
RealRasmus what?
I am a fan of Immortal Technique, Tech N9ne and Dead Prez so thanks for that list! As influence Technique is number 1 yes, as capitalisation it would be Tech N9ne. Also if you can add brittsh rappers that would be Lowkey and maybe Mic Righteous
Wheres Hopsin? Dizzy Wright? Logic? Flatbush Zombush? Under achievers? Pro Era? This top ten is bs. Joey Badass should of been 1
Mannnn I'm upset about no Joey too.......
yea..
F.B.Z and UA aren't independent but they are good
as a serious fan of all the rappers you mentioned, this list is very deserving
:)
where's necro and ill bill
Ranger Crow doing coke in the alley
they were too far underground for this list
good to see some of the better rappers getting recognition for once, thanks for making this video watch mojo. my only criticism is that doom should be #1 and rugged man should be higher up on the list, other than that awesome list!
ohh and u missed kool keith, an underground legend
haha i put the same shit XD glad i have somebody with same views
Michael Papamarkou But technique has a stronger base and network. No disrespect to doom or rugged man but technique is still going to hit the hip hop scene more and his influence has been greater.
Doom will always be #1 when ur talking about underground artists. The dude has so much classic shit. Also his definitely the best rapper/producer ever, only guy I can think of that comes close is RZA
***** What about K-Rino though, dude's got mad flavour.
I am sure you will get flooded with suggestions, BUT K-Rino should get at LEAST an honorable mention. He just released 7 Albums at ONE time and the mayor of Houston gave the man his own day for crying out loud ...
K rino and DOOM the goats
Aesop rock should be much higher on the list
steven buchanan Asap Rocky* is signed to a lable you moron...
Chill, it's a joke
No he shouldn't.
+Matt Pearson yes he fuckin should lol
+steven buchanan No fucking doubt
Ummmmmm.... CHANCE? No chance the rapper?
bc he wack asf
yeah wtf chance is one of the top of the new school, and he's gonna be so successful in these coming years
+Josiah Gammeter naw bruh they only include people who are good
+xCAxALLDAY you can have your opinion but that doesn't take away from the fact that chance is a rising star
+xCAxALLDAY If you like chance the rapper is bad, idk what type of shit you think is good
So Where's The legend Lil B? He's one of the most influential artist of our time like it or not.
Watchmojo has no fucking idea what they are doing. Cant even pay respect to the bitchmobtaskforcebasedberkeleyoverlord.
just be thankful they didn't add hopsin to the list
lil b task force will be coming after these watchmojo bitches for not respecting greatness
Slug/Atmosphere deserves to be #1 Rhymesayers Entertainment's roster could fill this list alone. Also, no love to Sage Francis is a huge mistake. you could make an entire top 10 list of rappers that watch mojo forgot about or intentionally left out of this list because, frankly they don't seem to know what the hell they're talking about.
Slug
Sage
Astronautalis
Doomtree (or any member of)
Scroobius Pip
Chance the Rapper
Murs
El-P
any of the rest of the Living Legends
Eyedea
My two favorite rappers are probably Slug and Brother Ali, and they both started out on underground cassette-only releases
Don’t forget Aesop Rock and Grieves
Mtg Biggie fuck slug and atmosphere! Slug and Ant are both pretentious douche bags who unfortunately fooled their fans into thinking they were real caring, feeling human beings. They’re only there to rape your eardrums and take advantage, trust me, live show meetings these 2 are straight up douchebags
which is totally true but it would seem like a payed list if they did that
TJ Anderson that’s cool that they were cool with you, when they came to my city I went to the merch table to buy myself and my buddy a shirt they started talking shit about me buying for my “boyfriend” buddy just didn’t have money and they started talking gay shit, really unimpressed and since then I refuse to support, I’m down with Brother Ali and the rest of Rhyme Sayers but slug and ant lost a big supporter with that noise never supporting them again
how is tech n9ne not number 1........
he is the number 1 independent rapper in the world
Last time I checked no independent rapper surpassed Tech in anything. He's a beast and should of been number one.
Finally someone else who thinks properly
Damn right ...tech behind I.T. is ridiculous...Immortal technique is good but no where near where tech is at
"the king of the independent rap scene, Immortal Technique" No way. "His third album cracked the Billboard 200" Yeah, and Tech N9ne's consistently break top ten rap albums the weeks they drop. Heck, artists Tech N9ne signs underneath him CONSISTENTLY make Billboard 200. And if you're going by raw talent, then Tech N9ne should be number 2, but Pharoahe Monch should be number 1. Also, Slug as an honorable mention but Earl Sweatshirt on the list is ridiculous.
El-P? Death Grips? Cannival Ox? Company Flow?
I 2nd Death Grips as top 10
El-P is in my top 10 rappers of all time list
this comment all day long. cannibal ox and company flow easily put out two of the best underground/indie rap albums of all time. period. and death grips is just dope. but most likely not everyone would be too pleased to have mc ride on this list.
M8
Bara alhilali
What?
Thanks very informative video definitely need to research immortal technique
EYEDEA MA NIGGA,
true story
Truly one of the greats and will be missed RIP
Also Del tha Funky Homosapien as well as the rest of Hieroglyphics.
well fuck my nuts here I was thinking I was the only one who listens to Del
You my nigga now
R.EYE.P
Would you consider Logic to be indie?
Also, don't grill me, but isn't Childish Gambino technically indie?
not at all
I would consider Logic, even tho he is part of Def Jam they have basically left him out to die
logic not indie at all tfoh
+John Martson wow your rudeness is such a big proof of superiority. Especially considering he asked it under the form of a question.
And btw hes kinda right, before his debut album logic was undercontract with def jam but had unlimited creativity, they didnt ask to put their name on any of logics work from 2011-2014. Visionary Group is technically his own label... So hes kinda independent
What about Mac miller? He made it crazy big being independent. Didn't he even break a record for the most independent sales?? I know he's signed now I think it was a 10m contract but still. As an independent artist he did a lot.
I was bout to say that but you said it yourself, he sign on. So I guess that's why he is not in the list, I think idk. But i do agree with you tho.
Rip
He stayed independent when he signed to warner? As his own label for as far as i know
most instructionally knowledge mojo video ize ever seen. thankxxx!!!
where is e dubble ?
Right
Or even g eazy
+Corrupt Nation Gaming G eazy has signed to like 3 labels
+jordan hall but he started off by himself
mah man!
Chance? Phora? Zro? Futuristic? Dizzy? Jarren Benton?
Brian Clark Hopsin?
Brian Clark witt lowry?
Watksy?
Apparently since chance has found a mainstream popularity he is no longer a independent rapper??? WTF
Brian Clark lol you must be a Hopsin hater to mention Dizzy and Jarren but not Hopsin. LOL
I'm surprised Hopsin isn't on here. That Ill Mind #7 was one of the realest songs I heard in a long time. Dude is the truth.
You bet! I'm a Christian myself, and so I can sympathize with how he raps of the doubts Hopsin has sometimes about his faith, though I envy that he has Lecrae (perhaps the greatest Christian rapper alive) as a personal councilor.
Great list but would've also loved to see B Dolan (or Epic Beard Men)... or Bambu in there.
Immortal Technique best be number 1 or this is gets a F-.
Whew, you scared me there for a second, Mojo. Good job.
Eh I prefer madlib or mf doom I haven't seen immortal make an album as good as madvillany
s103792 braaaahhhhhh!!!!!! Revolutionary Vol. 2. Nufff said!
People it's a opinion so don't get butthurt
he's overrated. brother ali should have been higher up, or even number one. Tech N9ne could be number one as well. Hes definitely the biggest one.