5 Old School Rappers from NYC

5 Old School Rappers from NYC

Rap music has been an evolving and forever changing genre of music. Throughout its time there have been hundreds upon thousands of artists stepping to the scene, but only a handful rising to stardom. In this series, we cover five rappers from the early years of the genre, that rose out of New York City.

The Basics 

Most fans of the rap genre are aware of the greats from NYC; Notorious B.I.G, Busta Rhymes, 50 Cent, Jay-Z, and Nas. But there are many more artists that had a huge following in the early years of rap. Most people are aware of the artists that will be mentioned in this post, but many may not know that they are NYC natives. 

Tupac

Most fans associate Tupac with the west coast, California, or LA. But in reality, he was born in Harlem, New York City, and lived there for 17 years. Those from the time may even call him "MC New York" which he went by in his childhood.  Although he did not release a studio album until arriving in California, giving him his West Coast status.

Mos Def

Mos Def was born in Brooklyn, New York City and spent his life there. He was eldest of twelve siblings and attended school in Bushwick where he first stepped on stage, little to know it would become a norm in his life. Mos Def can be noted for participating in the rap group De La Soul. 

Rakim

Rakim was born a little farther east of NYC, he is actually a Wyandanch native. His first performance was actually right in Wyandanch Highschool.  But did record his first album in NYC, Paid in Full.  As a Long Island native myself, from the east end, I have stepped foot on this school ground and had many thoughts of Rakim walking the halls.

Prodigy

Prodigy was born in Hempstead, Long Island. He came from a musical family with many members playing brass instruments and having large contributions in the Bebop & Jazz scene. Prodigy continued to represent NYC in his infamous rap group Mobb Deep after attending school in Manhatten and meeting his other partner there, Havoc. 

GZA

GZA was born in New York City and is better known as a member of the Wu-Tang Clan. He is their oldest member by age, the first member to receive a record deal, and considered the head of the pack. He spent his early years spreading his arts through graffiti and Djing. Once finding his voice as an MC, he started performing small shows in Brooklyn and Staten Island.