The Best Jewish Rappers Of All Time
Anti-semitic behavior has no place in the music industry, especially the rap world. In light of the recent news and ongoing discrimination towards the Jewish community, we've ranked the greatest Jewish rappers of all time (aka rappers whose music you should be streaming instead of Kanye West's). Although the hip-hop industry is mostly dominated by Christian-raised black artists, Jewish rappers still hold a significant place among the ranks of hip-hop's GOATs, with Grammy Award-winning megastars Drake and Doja Cat paving the way for future generations of Jewish rap artists. From Gen Z West Coast emo rapper 24KGoldn to the late Mac Miller (rest in peace), this compilation of Jewish hip-hop artists contains all of your favorite rappers among the Jewish race, both living and deceased. Famous comedians Andy Samberg and Lil Dicky never cease to create space for Jews in Hollywood through their playful lyricism and IDGAF attitudes; and Orthodox Jewish rapper Nissim Black remains a force to be reckoned with among fellow hip-hop musicians, unapologetically expressing his faith across profound records.Â
Which of these rappers do you believe are the greatest Jewish hip-hop artists of all time? Vote below for the best Jewish rappers who deserve placement at the top of your playlists, and feel free to check out our other Jewish musicians lists across all genres if you'd like to discover more incredible music by the industry's most-talented Jewish artists.
Undeniably among the most talented artists of his generation, Mac Miller's music spoke to millions of fans with its raw sincerity and emotional depth. As a proud Jewish rapper, he broke down barriers by exploring themes of love, addiction, and mental health in his work. The late artist's groundbreaking 2011 album, Blue Slide Park, showcased his extraordinary storytelling ability and quickly established him as a lyrical force to be reckoned with. Through his unwavering commitment to artistic growth, Mac left a profound legacy that continues to inspire rappers and listeners alike.
Dominating charts and breaking records, Drake's remarkable career has seen him rising from a humble Toronto background to become one of the most influential artists of our time. With his distinctive sound and undeniable charisma, the Grammy-winning rapper has fearlessly embraced his Jewish heritage, making him a trailblazer in the industry. From his early mixtapes to his chart-topping albums like Views and Scorpion, Drake's innovative approach to music has consistently shattered expectations. His undeniable impact on the world of hip-hop will undoubtedly cement his status as a legendary figure for generations to come.
As a founding member of the game-changing trio Beastie Boys, Adam Yauch's impact on the rap world is nothing short of monumental. The Jewish rapper, also known by his stage name MCA, helped revolutionize hip-hop with his genre-defying sound and memorable lyrics. From their groundbreaking debut album, Licensed to Ill, to their eclectic later releases, Yauch's innovative spirit and unapologetic creativity left a lasting impression on fans and fellow musicians alike. Though his untimely passing in 2012 was a tragic loss for the world of music, Adam Yauch's pioneering legacy lives on.
A mastermind when it comes to producing beats, The Alchemist has continuously proven himself as an indispensable force in the world of hip-hop. The Jewish producer's collaborations with an array of exceptional talents, from Nas and Eminem to Mobb Deep and Kendrick Lamar, have solidified his reputation as a musical visionary. With a knack for creating beats that perfectly complement each artist's unique style, The Alchemist's discography is a testament to his versatility and boundless creativity. By pushing the boundaries of rap music, this prolific producer has undoubtedly earned his place among the greats.
One-third of the legendary Beastie Boys, Mike D (born Michael Diamond) has played an integral role in shaping the landscape of modern hip-hop. As a Jewish rapper, he and his bandmates broke new ground with their innovative approach to rap music, blending punk rock elements with tongue-in-cheek humor. A trailblazer in every sense, Mike D's distinctive style and enduring influence have solidified his position as one of the most respected artists in the genre. With an illustrious career spanning three decades, his contributions to rap music are truly unparalleled.
With his larger-than-life persona and exquisitely crafted bars, Action Bronson has made an indelible mark on the rap scene. The Queens-born Jewish rapper first gained widespread acclaim with his 2011 project Dr. Lecter, showcasing his offbeat humor and razor-sharp wit. In addition to his entertaining music, the culinary enthusiast has successfully ventured into the worlds of television and writing, further cementing his status as a true Renaissance man. Through his unapologetic authenticity, Action Bronson continues to entertain and inspire fans with his inimitable blend of gastronomy and lyricism.
