The Most Famous British Rapper, Ranked

Choose the rapper you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 22, 2024 07:06
Fans of British rap often debate who stands out in the genre, given its rich variety and the distinct styles of its artists. Discussing and ranking these artists can help new listeners get a sense of where to start and what to listen to. It bridges gaps between seasoned fans and newcomers, fostering a community of informed listeners who can share their passion and insights. By participating in the creation of a ranked list, each fan contributes to a broader understanding of the impact and popularity of these artists. This list is continuously updated with your votes, reflecting the current trends and opinions in the British rap scene. This dynamic response helps keep the list fresh and relevant for everyone involved.

Who Is the Most Famous British Rapper?

  1. 1
    50
    votes

    Stormzy

    Michael Ebenezer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr., known professionally as Stormzy, is a British rapper, singer, and songwriter. He rose to prominence in the UK grime scene.
    • Notable Album: Gang Signs & Prayer
  2. 2
    47
    votes

    Dave

    David Orobosa Omoregie, known professionally as Dave, is a British rapper, singer, songwriter, pianist, and actor from Streatham, South London. He is known for his socially conscious lyricism and wordplay.
    • Notable Album: Psychodrama
  3. 3
    38
    votes

    Skepta

    Joseph Junior Adenuga, better known as Skepta, is a British MC, rapper, songwriter, and record producer from Tottenham, North London. He is a key figure in the grime scene.
    • Notable Award: Mercury Prize (2016)
  4. 4
    20
    votes

    Giggs

    Nathaniel Thomson, better known by his stage name Giggs, is a British rapper from Peckham, South London. He is known for his deep, distinctive voice and for pioneering the road rap scene in the UK.
    • Notable Mixtape: Walk in da Park
  5. 5
    17
    votes

    Dizzee Rascal

    Dylan Kwabena Mills, better known by his stage name Dizzee Rascal, is a British MC, rapper, and record producer. His music is a blend of grime, UK garage, bassline, British hip hop, and R&B.
    • Debut Album: Boy in da Corner
  6. 6
    12
    votes

    AJ Tracey

    Ché Wolton Grant, better known as AJ Tracey, is a British rapper, singer, and record producer from Ladbroke Grove, West London. He is known for his eclectic and versatile style.
    • Breakthrough Single: Ladbroke Grove
  7. 7
    5
    votes

    Wiley

    Richard Kylea Cowie Jr., better known by his stage name Wiley and in his early career Wiley Kat, is a British MC, rapper, songwriter, DJ, and record producer. He is considered a pioneer in the grime music genre.
    • Nickname: Godfather of Grime
  8. 8
    3
    votes

    Kano

    Kane Brett Robinson, better known as Kano, is a British rapper, songwriter, and actor from East Ham, London. He is a significant figure in grime music.
    • Notable Album: Home Sweet Home
  9. 9
    2
    votes

    J Hus

    Momodou Lamin Jallow, better known professionally as J Hus, is a British rapper and singer. He is known for his unique blend of grime, Afrobeat, and dancehall.
    • Debut Album: Common Sense
  10. 10
    -2
    votes

    Bugzy Malone

    Aaron Davis, known professionally as Bugzy Malone, is a British rapper and actor from Manchester. He is one of the key figures in the grime revival in the North of England.
    • Notable EP: Walk with Me

Missing your favorite rapper?

Graphs
Error: Failed to render graph
Discussion
No discussion started, be the first!

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous British rapper. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Rapper is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 6667 views
  • 197 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Rapper once every 24 hours. The rank of each Rapper is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Famous British Rapper

Stormzy
Rank #1 for the most famous British rapper: Stormzy (Source)
British rap has a rich history. It started in the 1980s, influenced by American hip-hop. Early British rappers brought their own style, blending local culture with global trends. They used music to express their lives, struggles, and dreams. This new genre quickly gained popularity in urban areas.

During the 1990s, British rap evolved. Artists began to mix rap with other genres like reggae, jungle, and drum and bass. This fusion created a unique sound that stood out from American hip-hop. British rappers started to gain recognition. They showcased their talents on radio stations, in clubs, and at music festivals. Their lyrics often focused on social issues, reflecting the realities of life in the UK.

In the 2000s, British rap saw a surge in mainstream success. Artists began to top the charts and win awards. Their music videos received heavy rotation on TV. They collaborated with international stars, bringing more attention to the British rap scene. The internet played a crucial role in this growth. Platforms like YouTube and social media allowed rappers to reach a global audience without needing major record deals.

The rise of grime in the early 2000s marked a significant shift. Grime, a genre with fast beats and gritty lyrics, became a dominant force in British rap. It resonated with the youth, especially in London. Grime artists brought raw energy and authenticity to their music. They often rapped about their experiences in inner-city life. This genre continued to grow, influencing many new rappers.

British rap today is diverse and dynamic. Artists experiment with different sounds and styles. They draw inspiration from various genres, including rock, electronic, and Afrobeat. This diversity keeps the scene fresh and exciting. British rappers continue to push boundaries and challenge norms. They use their platform to address important issues like racism, inequality, and mental health.

The impact of British rap extends beyond music. It influences fashion, language, and culture. Rappers often set trends with their unique styles. Their slang and expressions become part of everyday speech. They play a vital role in shaping youth culture in the UK and beyond.

British rap has also made significant strides internationally. Artists tour around the world, performing to sold-out crowds. They receive accolades and recognition from prestigious institutions. British rap is now a respected and influential part of the global music landscape.

The journey of British rap is a testament to creativity and resilience. From its humble beginnings to its current status, it has come a long way. Its success is a result of hard work, talent, and a deep connection with the audience. British rappers continue to inspire and entertain, leaving a lasting impact on music and culture.

In conclusion, British rap has carved out its own identity. It stands tall with its unique sound and powerful messages. It continues to evolve, reflecting the changing times and diverse influences. British rappers have made their mark and will continue to shape the future of music.

Share this article