http://www.rhapsody.com/charts?cat=artist&category=genre&genreId=174&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rssTop East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody OnlineEast Coast Rap/Hip-Hopen720Sun, 29 Nov 2009 05:19:24 -0800 http://static.realone.com/rotw/images/logo_rhapsody_113x22.gif http://www.rhapsody.com/charts?cat=artist&category=genre&genreId=174&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.60987&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:38:30 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.60987 art.60987 Fabolous art.60987 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.60987&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.60987&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Ghetto Fabolous, provided an appealing blend of club bangers and bedroom ballads. It was a formula that Fabolous would mine for years to come with 2003's Street Dreams, which featured the Just Blaze-produced single "Can't Let You Go," and 2004's Real Talk. Though the latter album was well received by his fans, it failed to sell as many copies as the previous two, and Fab left Def Jam for Atlantic. On his 2007 Def Jam debut, From Nothing to Something, he reclaimed his spot as one of New York's most commercially successful rappers, thanks in large part to the hit single "Diamonds," which featured Young Jeezy. On Fab's fifth album, 2009's Loso's Way, the rapper continued to mesmerize with his indelible flow. - Sam Chennault]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.4794&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:05 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.4794 art.4794 Beastie Boys art.4794 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.4794&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.4794&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Licensed to Ill, went off like a bomb amid the international record-buying public. The New York trio's brash hollering and sophomoric humor, along with producer Rick Rubin's brilliant idea to blast heavy metal riffs underneath, turned the music world on its ear. On their second album, Paul's Boutique, MCA, Ad-Rock and Mike D. loosed a torrent of sly jokes and deep pop culture references that, along with unheard-of production by the Dust Brothers that interlocked over 100 samples, resulted in a critical 180 for the band. This shot-calling in the rap world continued over the next two albums (Check Your Head and Ill Communication) before tapering off as the trio devoted time to developing bands on their Grand Royal label and fighting for various political causes. Their fifth album, Hello Nasty, won a pair of Grammys in 1998, and 2004's To the 5 Boroughs received critical praise. In 2009, they released the single "Too Many Rappers," featuring Nas; plans for the release of a new studio album were put on hold while Adam "MCA" Yauch underwent treatment for cancer of the parotid gland. - Mike McGuirk]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.1289&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:38:30 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.1289 art.1289 Jay-Z art.1289 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.1289&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.1289&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss American Gangster. (The Beatles still hold the overall record with nineteen chart toppers). Born Shawn Carter, on December 4, 1970, in Brooklyn, New York, he grew up in the tough Marcy Projects Like fellow New York rappers DMX and Nas, he achieved broad mainstream acceptance for his unflinching accounts of urban life while his keen pop sensibilities and business acumen helped him ascend the top of the charts and the President of Def Jam records.

After appearing on tracks by Big Jaz and Original Flavor, Jay-Z released his first album Reasonable Doubt (Number 23 pop, Number Three R&B, 1996), which included "Ain't No Nigga" (Number 50 pop, Number 17 R&B, 1996) with Foxy Brown. Another single, "Can't Knock the Hustle" (Number 73 pop, Number 35 R&B, 1996), featured guest vocals from Mary J. Blige. Unhappy with the album's distribution, Jay-Z formed his own record company, Roc-A-Fella, and signed a deal with Def Jam.

In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 (Number Three pop, Number Two R&B, 1997) was an unqualified success, but 1998's Volume 2...Hard Knock Life (Number One pop and R&B, 1998) allowed the rapper to thoroughly dominate the pop charts. Two singles, debuting within a month of each other, did the rest: the jaunty "Can I Get a..." (Number 19 pop, Number Six R&B, 1998), from the Rush Hour soundtrack, and "Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)" (Number 15 pop, Number 10 R&B, 1998), which used a sample of a children's chorus from The Original Broadway Cast of Annie. The rapper embarked on a hugely successful tour and boosted the careers of such proteges as Ja Rule, Beanie Sigel, and Memphis Bleek. Volume 2 sold more than 4 million copies and won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album.

The 1999 followup, Volume 3... The Life & Times of S. Carter (Number One pop and R&B, 2000), along with two hits — Mariah Carey's Number One pop and R&B "Heartbreaker" (on which he rapped) and "Do It Again (Put Ya Hands Up)" (Number 17 R&B, 1999) — continued the winning trend. In December 1999 Jay-Z was charged with first-degree assault in the stabbing of record executive Lance "Un" Rivera. A new album, The Dynasty: Roc La Familia (Number One pop and R&B, 2001), included the hit "I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me)" (Number 11 pop, Number One R&B, 2001).

Even though it was released on September 11, 2001, the distraction of the terror attacks didn't keep The Blueprint from debuting at Number One on both the pop and hip-hop charts, selling 450,000 copies in its first week and eventually going double platinum. With Kanye West's production of four tracks and a guest spot from Eminem on "Renegade," the album was a commercial and critical smash, yielding the hit singles "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" (Number Four pop, Number Eight R&B/Hip-Hop, 2001) and "Girls, Girls, Girls" (Number Four R&B/Hip-Hop, Number 17 pop, 2001). On the track "Takeover," Jay-Z put his rivalry with rapper Nas on the public record; the feud had begun four years earlier when the murder of Notorious B.I.G. left the position of New York City Rap King up for grabs. After performing with the Roots as his backup band on an MTV Unplugged album (Number Eight R&B/Hip-Hop, Number 31 pop, 2001), Jay-Z released The Blueprint: The Gift & the Curse (Number One pop, Number One R&B/Hip-Hop, 2002), a sprawling, two-disc set featuring guest spots from a who's who of stars including his then-girlfriend Beyonce Knowles on "'03 Bonnie & Clyde" (Number Four pop, Number Five R&B/Hip-Hop, 2002), Lenny Kravitz on the rock-based "Guns & Roses," as well as golden-age rap legend Rakim, Outkast's Big Boi and Kanye West making an early appearance as an artist and not just a producer. The album also included the Neptunes-produced hit "Excuse Me Miss" (Number One R&B/Hip-Hop, Number Eight pop, 2003). Later that year Jay-Z released an abbreviated version with new tracks called The Blueprint 2.1.

Jay-Z continued his momentum with another critical and commercial smash, The Black Album (2003), which topped the pop and R&B/Hip-Hop charts and included popular singles "Dirt off Your Shoulder" (Number Three R&B/Hip-Hop, Number 5 pop, 2004), "Change Clothes" (Number Six R&B/Hip-Hop, Number Ten pop, 2004) and "99 Problems" (Number 26 R&B/Hip-Hop, Number 30 pop, 2004). Over the next two years he performed with rap-rockers Linkin Park, a collaboration that produced the official mash-up album Collison Course (Number One pop, Number Three R&B/Hip-Hop, 2004), which included a Number 20 single combining Jay-Z's "Encore" with Linkin Park's "Numb." That same year, DJ Danger Mouse released a critically acclaimed underground mash-up album consisting of vocal tracks from The Black Album with music samples from the Beatles' White Album that caused a stir when EMI, the copyright holder of The Beatles' catalog, attempted to halt its distribution. (Jay-Z had released an a capella version of The Black Album that spawned mash-ups with other artists ranging from Pavement, Weezer and Metallica to Prince and the Wu-Tang Clan.) A video entitled "The Grey Video" mashed up images of Jay-Z with footage from The Beatles movie A Hard Day's Night that featured a break-dancing John Lennon and drummer Ringo Starr evolving into a DJ. The Black Album/White Album controversy culminated with a real-life on-stage appearance by Paul McCartney with Jay-Z and Linkin Park during a performance of "Numb/Encore" at the 2006 Grammy Awards that mashed the Beatles' "Yesterday" into the mix.

Kingdom Come (Number One pop, Number One R&B/Hip-Hop, 2006), which yielded the hit single "Show Me What You Got" (Number Three R&B/Hip-Hop, Number Eight pop, 2006), featured another who's who of producers including West, Pharrell Williams, Dr. Dre and rocker Chris Martin of Coldplay on the orchestrated track "Beach Chair." The concept disc American Gangster (Number One pop, Number One R&B, 2007), inspired by the film of the same name starring Denzel Washington, came out to glowing reviews, ROLLING STONE naming it the third best album of the year. With production work from Diddy, Just Blaze, the Neptunes and others, it features guest appearances from Beanie Sigel and Lil' Wayne. After six years of dating, Jay-Z and Beyonce married in April of 2008. In late 2007, Jay-Z stepped down from a three-year stint as President of Def Jam records, and in September 2008 he announced a new label venture called StarRoc formed with Norwegian songwriters, Tor Erik Hermansen and Mikkel S. Eriksen known collectively as Stargate. A third installment of The Blueprint was rumored for a late 2008 release.]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.44827&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:38:32 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.44827 art.44827 50 Cent art.44827 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.44827&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.44827&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Power of the Dollar) that ended up unreleased, he was signed by Eminem's Shady Records label, thanks in part to his reputation on N.Y.C.'s mix tape circuit. Get Rich or Die Tryin' came out in early 2003 and propelled him to rap superstardom. He followed it with 2005's The Massacre, 2007's Curtis and 2008's I'm Rising to the Top. Not content with a solo recording career, 50 has also released an album with his G. Unit Crew; put his name on a clothing line, a Reebok sneaker and an energy drink; written a book; and starred in a semi-autobiographical movie. - Rachel Devitt]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.20184101&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:27:44 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.20184101 art.20184101 The Notorious B.I.G. art.20184101 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.20184101&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.20184101&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Who's The Man?. He hooked up with Puff Daddy's upstart Bad Boy label and dropped his classic debut LP Ready To Die in 1994. The album burned up the charts thanks to hit singles like "Juicy" and "Big Poppa." Mixing a potent blend of street thuggism and flossy living, his deep narratives spoke to listeners from all walks of life. The combination of Biggie's charm on the mic and Puffy's ultra-catchy, sample-based production made them both rich and famous. After his album's success, Biggie put on his BK crew Junior M.A.F.I.A. and sparked Lil Kim's solo career. On March 9th, 1997, he was gunned down in Los Angeles. Many speculated it was due to a supposed "east-west beef" between Bad Boy and Death Row, although no one was ever arrested or charged in the case. Biggie's second LP Life After Death dropped three weeks later and debuted at #1, sporting singles like "Hypnotize" and "Mo Money, Mo Problems." In 1999, Born Again appeared, loaded with cameos from the biggest names in the business. Today he remains one of hip-hop's all time greats, influencing a generation of emcees from beyond the grave. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.539&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Lyrical Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:23:03 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.539 art.539 Nas art.539 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.539&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.539&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Illmatic, is considered by many to be hip-hop's high water mark. On songs such as "Memory Lane" and "One Love," Nas sounded as he could've been 60 or 16, a shortie on the corner slinging rock or a revolutionary on the capitol steps. But the Queensbridge emcee is too talented to be contained by one style, and successive albums (most notably 1996's It Was Written) found him experimenting with the highly stylized mafioso fantasies that became the genre's bread and butter. After the slaying of Biggie and Pac, Nas risked his legacy with a string of albums that ranged from painfully bad (Nastradamus) to mediocre (I Am...). Fortunately, the emcee's time in the desert was limited, and 2001's Stillmatic announced a revitalized Nas; 2002's strong God's Son and 2004's politically prickly Street's Disciple were similarly great. When he declared "hip-hop is dead" on the 2006 album of the same name, the world listened. Originally titled N*gg*r, his untitled 2008 album was characteristically contentious. - Sam Chennault]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.383&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:16 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.383 art.383 Busta Rhymes art.383 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.383&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.383&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss The Coming (1996) featured his breakthrough single "Whoo Hah!! Got You all in Check." The song enjoyed massive airplay and made him a household name. Blessed with one of the most innovative and recognizable rhyme styles in the industry, the Flipmode Squad boss Busta released several more albums in the late '90s, spawning a slew of hits like "Dangerous" and "Gimme Some More." Busta even crossed over from starring in his wildly innovative music videos to film. In 2005, he signed with Dr. Dre's -Aftermath Entertainment and released The Big Bang in 2006.]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.217&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:23:42 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.217 art.217 LL Cool J art.217 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.217&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.217&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.38114&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Underground Sat, 10 Oct 2009 10:13:30 -0700 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.38114 art.38114 The Roots art.38114 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.38114&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.38114&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.542&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Underground Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:27:12 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.542 art.542 A Tribe Called Quest art.542 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.542&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.542&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss The Low End Theory, an album many consider to be one of hip-hop's finest as well as the group's masterwork. 1998 saw the release of their final LP The Love Movement, a triple-vinyl concept album that included the single "Find a Way" as well as older remixes and B-sides. Although they've since disbanded, Tribe's musical impact and influence on hip-hop will be heard indefinitely. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.4546&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Indie Rap/Hip-Hop Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:38:15 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.4546 art.4546 Mos Def art.4546 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.4546&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.4546&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Black Star LP, followed by his critically acclaimed solo disc, Black on Both Sides (1999). The most appealing aspect of Mos's lyrics wasn't that they largely focused on issues of class and race disparity, but that they infused an emotional poignancy to these potentially dry and pedantic topics. Fans felt his style a viable alternative to stagnant mainstream hip-hop fare, and his records are regarded as underground classics. And while he was entrusted with the keys to the backpack kingdom, he rejected cult status and instead focused on his budding acting career. His two subsequent albums, 2004's New Danger and 2006's True Magic found the emcee moving further away from typical hip-hop claptrap and toward an experimental template that attempted to fuse numerous strands of black music. Oddly, True Magic was pulled off shelves two weeks after it was initially released in 2006. It was slated to be re-released in 2007. - Sam Chennault]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.59657&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:38:29 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.59657 art.59657 Missy Elliott art.59657 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.59657&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.59657&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Supa Dupa Fly. After refining her skills writing hit songs for artists like Aaliyah, her first album blew up thanks to distinct, ultra-catchy production coupled with Missy's strong and sassy vocals. She's been on a roll ever since, with more albums, tons of collaborations, and many hit singles ("The Rain," "Get Ur Freak On," "One Minute Man," etc.) to her credit. In 2005, she released her fifth album The Cookbook, scoring yet another hit with the hyperactive dancefloor favorite "Lose Control" featuring Ciara and Fat Man Scoop. Loved by ladies and fellas, music critics and the general public, Missy Elliott continues her reign as one of hip-hop and R&B's most influential and hardest working artists. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.384&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:38:25 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.384 art.384 DMX art.384 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.384&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.384&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.40189&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Boom Bap/Nineties Sat, 14 Nov 2009 11:48:49 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.40189 art.40189 Wu-Tang Clan art.40189 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.40189&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.40189&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Enter The Wu-Tang: 36 Chambers. The album was unlike any other: it showcased dirty beats, dark, cinematic loops, and cut-up excerpts from kung fu movies. Each ultratalented emcee squared off on topics as diverse as his delivery, flexing styles that led to a slew of successful solo efforts. Their blend of eastern mysticism, five percent wisdom, and violent ghetto realities won them legions of fans and imitators. Bona fide superstars, the Clan still managed to deliver rugged tracks on Wu-Tang Forever (1997) and The W (2000). Despite accusations of having "fell off," they came back hard in late 2001 with Iron Flag, arguably their best work since their debut. After a six-year hiatus, they released their fifth album, 8 Diagrams, in 2007. The Wu are responsible for many trends in hip-hop, including the prominence of large rap cliques, group-run clothing lines, slang terms, martial arts sampling, and the importance of multiple aliases. Like Dre's The Chronic, 36 Chambers changed the sound and business of hip-hop, and will forever be heralded as a classic. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.7579438&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:52:18 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.7579438 art.7579438 Diddy art.7579438 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.7579438&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.7579438&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss We Invented The Remix debuted on the charts at number one. He subsequently released The Saga Continues... in 2005 and continues to be a pop icon that is revered by his fans. He subsequently released The Saga Continues... in 2005, and dropped Press Play the following year. On Press Play, Diddy continues to raise the bar for platinum-plated braggadocio rap. A great pop record, it reasserted Diddy's continued relevance in the hip-hop world. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.5606&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Old School Rap/Hip-Hop Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:01 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.5606 art.5606 Run-D.M.C. art.5606 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.5606&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.5606&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Down With The King (1993). In 1999, they released their seventh and final LP Crown Royal. Three years later, on October 30th, 2002, Jam Master Jay was shot and killed in his Queens recording studio, and like Biggie, Tupac, Big L, etc. the murderer has never been caught. In the fall of 2005, Run released his first ever solo album Distortion, and launched an MTV reality show called Run's House. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.10316816&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:38:12 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.10316816 art.10316816 Maino art.10316816 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.10316816&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.10316816&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.38358&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Fri, 6 Nov 2009 12:47:20 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.38358 art.38358 Fugees art.38358 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.38358&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.38358&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Blunted on Reality. They came back with a vengeance three years later, burning up the charts with numerous singles from their multiplatinum follow-up The Score. The album brought live instruments, reggae beats and soulful vocals into the mix, and featured huge hits like "Fu-Gee-La," "Ready or Not," and a cover of Roberta Flack's "Killing Me Softly." Critically acclaimed and thrust into superstardom, the Fugees went on to win two Grammys, one for Best Rap Album, and another for Best R&B Performance. In '97 Wyclef released Refugee All-Stars' The Carnival, while Pras had a hit with "Ghetto Supastar." Lauryn Hill dropped The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill in '98. The album earned her 11 Grammy nominations; she took home five. In 2000 Wyclef returned with Ecleftic: 2 Sides II a Book, and reached out for a Fugees reunion on the track "Where Fugees At?" That question was finally answered five years later, when cable comedy king Dave Chappelle got the three to reunite at a party in New York (which would be filmed and later released as a movie). Fans around the globe rejoiced, and several months later the reunited trio released a single called "Take It Easy." They then embarked on a worldwide tour and began recording their long-awaited third album. But this glimmer of hope soon faded. The album never materialized as relationships within the group deteriorated. Once again, the Fugees disbanded and went their separate ways. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.5067&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:23:37 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.5067 art.5067 Public Enemy art.5067 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.5067&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.5067&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Yo! Bum Rush the Show!, to seven records later, Public Enemy's influence on hip-hop and rap shows little sign of slowing down. Arguably the most frequently sampled rap artists of all time, they proclaim, "We got a right to be angry." They've been channeling that anger into articulate, revolutionary lyrics, as much to educate as to entertain. They use deep Funk basslines with layered rhymes from Chuck D interspersed with funny quips from Flava Flav (notorious for wall clocks hung around his neck). The beats, rife with police sirens, screeches, and heavy sampling, speed each tune to a cathartic release. Anyone who thinks that racial equality has been reached in the U.S. can think again, and let Public Enemy do the talking.]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.9929&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Indie Rap/Hip-Hop Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:28:15 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.9929 art.9929 MF DOOM art.9929 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.9929&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.9929&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Black Bastards, was shelved by their record label. Sev Love went into hiding, emerging years later as the masked "super villain" MF DOOM. His first album, 1999's Operation Doomsday, was a lo-fi hip-hop classic, featuring a cadre of reworked quiet-storm beats and oblique word puzzles. As an emcee, his flow is a blunt instrument, rumbling over a track's rhythm, oftentimes oblivious to the beat. He relies on words to draw out rhythm, cramming lines with inner rhymes and alliteration. The album acquired a cult following, and when DOOM returned in 2003, the world was ready. He released classics Madvillainy, Take Me to Your Leader and Vaudeville Villain under different aliases within a 10-month period in 2003 and 2004. His latest is 2009's Born Like This. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.43901&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Street Hop Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:11 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.43901 art.43901 Jadakiss art.43901 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.43901&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.43901&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Kiss Tha Game Goodbye, in 2001. Sporting choice beats and singles including "Put Ya Hands Up" and "We Gonna Make It," the release further enhanced his fast-growing rhyme rep. In the summer of 2004 Jadakiss returned with his second album Kiss Of Death. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.63211&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:23:34 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.63211 art.63211 Ja Rule art.63211 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.63211&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.63211&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Venni Vetti Vecci dropped in 1999, powered by the runaway smash "Holla Holla," which flooded the airwaves and had legions of listeners exclaiming "it's murdaaaa!" A hit-making machine, he mastered the art of the crossover, coming with both roughneck homicide stories and R&B love jams alike. He is alternately gruff and mellow, spitting semi-shouted and smooth rhymes backed by bouncy, club-oriented production from Irv Gotti. 2000's Rule 3:36 featured several huge hits, while his 2001 LP Pain Is Love sported radio-ready singles like "I'm Real" and "Always On Time," furthering his success as a platinum player. While 2002's The Last Temptation yielded hits like "Thug Lovin'" and "Mesmerize," Ja's beef with 50 Cent did irreparable damage to his career, as 50's unrelenting attacks made a mockery of Ja and the Murder Inc. brand. His subsequent albums, Blood In My Eye and R.U.L.E., failed to match his previous success. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.2781&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:06 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.2781 art.2781 Lil' Kim art.2781 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.2781&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.2781&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hard Core. Packed with gat-toting scenarios and graphically freaky trysts, the album lived up to its name, establishing Kim as one of hip-hop's premiere female emcees. Her fiery mic presence and femme fatale image have paved the way for a slew of imitators, but when it comes to straight skills, few can touch her. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.56991&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Indie Rap/Hip-Hop Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:27:43 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.56991 art.56991 Talib Kweli art.56991 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.56991&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.56991&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Soundbombing collections, Lyricist Lounge Vol. 1 and New York State of Mind 1 and 2. An outspoken supporter of many sociopolitical issues (both on and off the mic), and he's also appeared on The Unbound Project and Hip Hop For Respect. As if that's not enough, his other group Reflection Eternal (a collaboration with DJ Hi-Tek), have stepped out with several 12-inches and an excellent debut LP. Talib released his long-awaited first solo album Quality in 2002, and found radio love with the single "Get By." His second full-length, The Beautiful Struggle hit the scene two years later, followed by 2007's Eardrum. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.4116&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:21 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.4116 art.4116 Method Man art.4116 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.4116&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.4116&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Tical. An undisputed classic, the album showcased Meth's wildman charisma and his gushing mic skills. Several singles hit the charts, including a duet with Mary J Blige called "You're All I Need." He's dropped a slew of cameos since then, acted in several films (Copland, Black And White), and coined the extremely popular phrase "John Blaze." In 1998 he released his second solo album Tical 2: Judgement Day, followed one year later by Blackout! with his comical cohort Redman. In 2001, following the release of two more Wu-Tang LPs, Meth and Redman starred in the weed comedy "How High." Three years later, the two had their own self-titled sitcome on Fox, and Method Man released his long-awaited third album Tical 0: The Prequel. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.55716&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Street Hop Thu, 12 Nov 2009 09:55:08 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.55716 art.55716 Cam'ron art.55716 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.55716&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.55716&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Confessions Of Fire in '98. With the hit singles "Horse & Carriage" and "357," the future looked bright. Unfortunately, label problems hampered his second release S.D.E., and Cam'Ron soon drifted out of the spotlight. His luck would soon change; in early 2002, he returned with the compilation Harlem's Greatest, and signed with Rocafella Records. That summer saw Cam release his most popular album yet, Come Home With Me, featuring the hit singles "Oh Boy," "Hey Ma," and "Welcome To New York City." Two years later, after appearing on albums from his Diplomats crew, Cam returned with his third solo offering, Purple Haze. A fourth album, Killa Season was released in 2006. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.59660&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Old School Rap/Hip-Hop Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:04 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.59660 art.59660 Salt-n-Pepa art.59660 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.59660&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.59660&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hot Cool & Vicious, which became the first album by a female group to go double-platinum. Their funky beats and strong but playful, pro-women rhymes provided a much-needed female outlet in the male-dominated scene. A remix of their B-side "Push It" rocketed up the charts and was even nominated for a Grammy; two more records and a collection of remixes followed. They returned in 1993 with a more refined, R&B-influenced sound, and scored major success with tracks like "Shoop" and "Whatta Man," winning a Grammy in 1995. Throughout their lengthy career they have consistently evolved and excelled, opening doors for women in hip-hop everywhere. The group released a fifth album in 1997 and a greatest hits package in 2000. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.40188&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Street Poets Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:27:16 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.40188 art.40188 Q-Tip art.40188 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.40188&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.40188&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Amplified. It was a flashier, more "commercial" sounding record that alienated many of his longtime fans but found sales success thanks to the hit single "Vivrant Thing." With his career moving into the 21st century, Q-Tip has changed his name to Kamaal The Abstract and dropped a new album loaded with singing and extended live jams. Though reactions to his new sound were mixed, he continues to evolve as an artist in dramatic ways. Meanwhile, rumors continue to swirl about a Tribe reunion and new LP.]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.3107&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Street Hop Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:38:29 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.3107 art.3107 Fat Joe art.3107 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.3107&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.3107&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Me. Myself and I, Fat Joe was in danger of becoming a regional rapper: revered by fans of New York hip-hop, yet largely ignored by those not living in the five Burroughs. - Shailesh Rao]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.61550&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Old School Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:38:16 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.61550 art.61550 The Sugarhill Gang art.61550 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.61550&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.61550&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.44065&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Boom Bap/Nineties Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:27:23 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.44065 art.44065 Gang Starr art.44065 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.44065&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.44065&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Jazzmatazz projects in '93, '95, and 2000, while Premier has produced for heavy hitters like Biggie, Nas, and Rakim. Their 1999 quadruple album Full Clip: A Decade of Gang Starr contains many classic cuts, including "Mass Appeal," "Ex Girl To The Next Girl," and "DWYCK." For consistently high-quality hip-hop, look no further than Brooklyn's finest. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.38008&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Underground Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:06 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.38008 art.38008 Aesop Rock art.38008 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.38008&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.38008&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Float, Labor Days, and Bazooka Tooth. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.43746&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Underground Sat, 29 Aug 2009 10:21:46 -0700 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.43746 art.43746 Digable Planets art.43746 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.43746&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.43746&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.40217&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:30 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.40217 art.40217 Naughty By Nature art.40217 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.40217&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.40217&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss 19 Naughty III was also a mega-hit, powered by the classic anthem "Hip Hop Hooray." They released a third album in 1995 and also worked on a number of projects, including acting, a clothing line, and producing for other artists. In 1999 they returned with Nineteen Naughty Nine: Nature's Fury, which contained the hit "Jamboree." Naughty By Nature continue to record, knowing their place in the history books is secure after some of the catchiest, radio-dominating hits in the history of the rap game. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.69089&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Sat, 31 Oct 2009 11:43:03 -0700 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.69089 art.69089 Queen Latifah art.69089 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.69089&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.69089&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss All Hail The Queen containing the hit "Ladies First." Her intelligent lyrics and strong pro-woman philosophies resonated clearly with many listeners, as the industry was even more male-dominated then than it is now. With a knack for diverse delivery, insightful rhymes and catchy production, she would be the premier female rapper for years to come. Latifah's third record, Black Reign (1993), featured the progressively minded hit "U.N.I.T.Y." which eventually won her a Grammy. In addition to her impressive skills on the mic, Queen Latifah is also a successful actress, writer and entrepreneur, with her own management company and label. Her last rap album Order in the Court was released in 1998, though she's since become a household name thanks to her work in hit movies like Bringing Down The House and Chicago (for which she won an Oscar nomination). In 2004, with her career bigger than ever, she showcased her exceptional singing skills on The Dana Owens Album, a collection of jazz and pop standards. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.9503&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Indie Rap/Hip-Hop Sat, 10 Oct 2009 10:13:26 -0700 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.9503 art.9503 Handsome Boy Modeling School art.9503 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.9503&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.9503&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss So...How's Your Girl? Chock-full of schizophrenic, genre-bending beats, left-field lyricism and plenty of bugged-out humor (as well as multiple Get a Life references), the record was a critically-acclaimed hit, spawning the high-octane single "Rock N' Roll (Could Never Hip Hop Like This)." Five years later, Chest and Nathaniel reunited for White People, drafting another team of musical oddballs to help them on their quest. De La Soul, Cat Power, RZA, Mike Patten, Casual and Mars Volta all lent their skills to the mix, resulting in another one-of-a-kind album that is both hard to classify and easy to dig. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.43550&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:13:16 -0700 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.43550 art.43550 Eve art.43550 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.43550&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.43550&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Bulworth soundtrack in '98. The following year, she hooked up with the Ruff Ryders and scored a major hit with the Latin-esque club rocker "What Ya Want." Her first solo album, Let There Be Eve...Ruff Ryders' First Lady, was a major success, fueled by the singles "Gotta Man" and "Love Is Blind." She has also loaned her skills to other albums by the Roots and Blackstreet. Able to balance sex appeal, tough-girl posturing and real-life issues, Eve is among the most respected female mic-touchers in the game. Her second record, Scorpion, dropped in 2001, featuring the Dre-produced Gwen Stefani collaboration "Let Me Blow Your Mind." That was quickly followed in 2002 by Eve-olution, which included a hit duet with Alicia Keys, Gangsta Lovin'. After that the singer dropped out of the spotlight for a few years, but she returned in 2007 with the hit single "Tambourine" and the subsequent album Here I Am. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.385&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Street Hop Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:38:14 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.385 art.385 Mobb Deep art.385 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.385&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.385&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Juvenile Hell, released when they were still teenagers, to their recent Murda Muzik, Prodigy and Havoc have refined the genre of East Coast "reality rap" with four albums telling of casual violence on the shady streets around the notorious Queensbridge housing projects. Just as evolutionary are their production techniques, (primarily Havoc's) that incorporate dusty records, paranoid piano loops, booming bass, and super-tight beats. Their tracks are designed to manipulate emotions, bringing fear to the listener, whether hard-rock thugs or sheltered suburbanites. If you dig straight street lyrics and sophisticated instrumentals on a higher plane, this is for you. Arguably one of the most influential groups in hip-hop today, the Mobb has many imitators, but no equal. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.61530&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Old School Sun, 22 Nov 2009 10:09:44 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.61530 art.61530 Eric B and Rakim art.61530 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.61530&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.61530&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Paid In Full (1987) continued the onslaught of deadly serious lyricism and air-tight beats, fast establishing them as one of the most respected and influential groups out. Their sophomore LP Follow The Leader (1988) was another undisputed classic, packed with hits like "I Ain't No Joke" and "Microphone Fiend." They released two more solid albums, and parted ways in the early '90s. Their latter-day singles include "Casualties Of War" and "Juice (Know The Ledge)." Among the most influential groups in the history of hip-hop, they popularized James Brown drum loops and complex rhyme schemes alike. Rakim released two solo albums in '97 and '99. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.14010&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Lyrical Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:38:24 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.14010 art.14010 Slick Rick art.14010 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.14010&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.14010&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss The Great Adventures Of Slick Rick, featured timeless hits like "Children's Story," "Teenage Love," and "Treat Her Like A Prostitute." Rick's flamboyant style and exceptional skills made him a huge star, but in 1990 he was incarcerated and ended up spending six years in the clink. While inside, he managed to record two albums, but both were somewhat lackluster and commercially ignored. Many heads assumed Rick was washed up, but in 1999 he dropped an outstanding comeback record called The Art Of Storytelling. Slick Rick's fifth album will be released by Def Jam sometime in 2002. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.59656&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:05:11 -0700 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.59656 art.59656 Mase art.59656 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.59656&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.59656&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Harlem World followed in 1997 and burned up the charts. With dance party production and a gang of big-name guest stars, the album propelled him into the spotlight and onto radio stations coast to coast. Most of his fans were young kids, specifically girls, and Mase soon found himself a target for ridicule because of his Pop appeal, unusual style and squeaky-clean image. In 1999 he compiled a group called Harlem World and released The Movement. He also put out his second solo effort Double Up shortly after announcing his retirement to follow the Lord. In 2004, Mase (now a minister in Atlanta) came back to rap music, dropping an all-new album called Welcome Back. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.9264903&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Street Hop Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:27 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.9264903 art.9264903 Jim Jones art.9264903 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.9264903&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.9264903&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss The Warriors meets The Wu Tang Clan -- Jim Jones has more street cred than almost any NYC artist. And while his somewhat stilted flow and simplistic rhyme scheme won't be drawing any comparisons to Nas or Rakim, Jones' sadistic braggadocio and coke kingpin rhymes project a certain menace that has made him a favorite in the Big Apple. Jones came into the game in the mid-1990s on the coattails of fellow Harlem emcee Cam'ron. He initially focused more on the business side of things, preferring to think of himself as more of a hip-hop entrepreneur than a hip-hop artist, though the distinction between the two is continually blurred and forsaken. In the first half of this decade, he helped form Diplomat Records -- home to Juelz Santana and one of hip-hop's most successful and recognized indies. Jones would make numerous cameo appearances on Diplomat records and numerous mix tapes; he didn't release an album until 2004's In Da Church. Though that album and 2005's Harlem: Diary of a Summer explored religious themes, songs such as "Shotgun Fire" and "Crunk Music" ensured that Jones was regarded as more of a Don Corleone than a Jerry Fallwell. And while he occasionally enshrines himself in political rhetoric during interviews -- labeling Dipset "the new Black Panthers" and himself "Harlem's Che Guevara" -- there is very little evidence of a specific political agenda.

in 2006, Jones years of grinding in the underground finally paid off in a big way. His single "Fly High" was one of the biggest club hits of the year, and established Jones as a commercial force. The subsequent album Hustler's P.O.M.E. sold well and was generally well received by critics. Jim Jones continues to be one of the most celebrated hardcore street emcees. - Sam Chennault]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.7272812&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Street Hop Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:13 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.7272812 art.7272812 Ghostface Killah art.7272812 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.7272812&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.7272812&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Enter The Wu-Tang: 36 Chambers. At the time, many regarded Ghost as one of the less distinct members of the legendary crew. That all changed in 1995 with the release of Only Built 4 Cuban Linx. Though technically a Raekwon release, Ghostface was featured on nearly half of the tracks, and his contributions helped the album achieve classic status. Ghostface's solo debut came in 1996 with Ironman. The album included the heartwrenching "All That I Got Is You," as well as the propulsive "Daytona 500." While much of what he said on his celebrated second solo LP (2000's Supreme Clientele) was either metaphorical or nonsensical, he injected such emotion into his lines that the actual content was tertiary. As the years progressed, Ghostface became more literal and his songs became more narrative. On 2006's Fishscale, Ghost took a slow walk down the dark alley of grisly hip-hop noir, while 2007's Big Doe Rehab was a coke-rap victory lap. - Sam Chennault]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.46329&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:49:49 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.46329 art.46329 Clipse art.46329 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.46329&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.46329&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Lord Willin', followed soon after, chock-full of ultra-catchy beats and raw rhymes about street life in VA. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.44285&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Underground Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:01:24 -0700 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.44285 art.44285 Jedi Mind Tricks art.44285 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.44285&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.44285&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss The Psycho-Social Biological and Electro-Magnetic Manipulation of Human Consciousness. Comprising Stoupe (the Enemy of Mankind) on production and Ikon the Hologram (aka Vinnie Paz) on the mic, they made serious noise with sick beats and crazy rhymes that fused religious scriptures with conspiracy theories. In 2000 they returned with new member JusAllah in tow for their more hardcore album, Violent By Design. Flexing a fiercer, blood-drenched style, the team continues their underground dominance. Their side-project, Army of the Pharoahs, adds Virtuoso, 7L and Esoteric, Bahamadia, and Chief Kamachi to the mix. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.3665&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss East Coast Old School Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:25:08 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.3665 art.3665 Grandmaster Flash art.3665 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.3665&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.3665&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Superrappin', in 1979. The group signed to Sugarhill Records, where they released a slew of classic material, including the groundbreaking 1981 masterpiece "Grandmaster Flash on the Wheels of Steel." The epic single had Flash cutting and scratching a series of records, piecing them together for a seriously funky showcase of his skills. The next year the group dropped "The Message," an intense tale of ghetto realities and social ills in Reagan-era America that coined the timeless phrase "It's like a jungle / sometimes it makes me wonder / how I keep from going under." Other classic hits followed, such as "It's Nasty" and the anti-cocaine anthem "White Lines (Don't Do It)," though tensions between Flash and Melle Mel soon disbanded the group. Flash continues to entertain and educate, releasing solo albums, judging DJ battles, and acting as an elder statesman of the hip-hop generation. Arguably the most important DJ in the genre, Grandmaster Flash's knack for innovation and experimentation helped launch a musical revolution that continues to evolve. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.543&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Indie Rap/Hip-Hop Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:55:56 -0700 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.543 art.543 De La Soul art.543 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.543&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.543&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss
De La Soul began as three high school friends whose stage names reflected their sense of whimsical in-jokery: through backward spelling David Jolicoeur became "Trugoy the Dove" (yogurt, his favorite food, spelled backwards); Kelvin Mercer derived "Posdnuos" (his nickname as a high school DJ, "Sound-Sop"). Their first demo, "Plug Tunin'," attracted the attention of Paul "Prince Paul" Houston, of local rap group Stetsasonic. He played the tape for colleagues on New York's rap scene, and soon De La Soul signed with Tommy Boy.

Prince Paul produced the group's debut album,3 Feet High and Rising, a mock-game show soundtrack that introduced such De La terms as "the D.A.I.S.Y. Age (Da Inner Sound, Y'all)." De La Soul were labeled "hippies" — a term at which the group bridled — but also hailed as ingenious revolutionaries. The album brimmed with off-center inventiveness, its samples taken not from the usual James Brown rhythm tracks but from TV shows and obscure recordings, many from De La Soul's parents' collections. "Transmitting Live From Mars" set a sample from a French lesson record atop a sample from the 1968 Turtles hit "You Showed Me." The former Turtles filed a $1.7 million lawsuit, charging their music was sampled without their permission; the case was settled out of court for an undisclosed sum. Three Feet (Number 24 Pop, Number 1 R&B, 1989) yielded a hit single in "Me Myself and I" (Number 34 Pop, Number 1 R&B, 1989), set to a sample of Funkadelic's 1979 "(not just) Knee Deep." De La Soul then helped formed "Native Tongues," a loose alliance with A Tribe Called Quest, the Jungle Brothers, Queen Latifah, Monie Love, and Black Sheep.

De La Soul's second album was an obvious reaction to the perception that its debut, however innovative, was "soft." Titled De La Soul Is Dead (Number 26 pop, Number 24 R&B, 1991), it took a darker, more serious tone with songs about drug abuse ("My Brother's a Basehead"), incest ("Millie Pulled a Pistol on Santa"), and the vicissitudes of fame ("Ring Ring Ring [Ha Ha Hey]" [Number 22 R&B, 1991]). Critical and commercial reaction to the album was mixed.

De La Soul came back strong in late 1993, however, with Buhloone Mindstate (Number 40 pop, Number Nine R&B), hailed as a return to the group's quirky, groundbreaking form. A more conventional effort, the 1996 album Stakes Is High found the group stuck in neutral. Three singles — "The Bizness" (Number 53 R&B), "Stakes Is High" (Number 70 R&B), and "Itsoweezee (Hot)" (Number 60 R&B) — failed to stir sustained interest.

De La Soul wasn't dead, however, as the trio returned to the studio for a 2000 release, Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump (Number Nine Pop, Number Three R&B, 2000), part of a reported three-disc series. Guest artists include Chaka Khan, the Beastie Boys, Busta Rhymes, and Redman. The next year, the group followed up with a second installment of the series, AOI: Bionix, but a third part never showed up. Instead, in 2004, the group's longtime label Tommy Boy tossed out a dated, badly recorded performance disc, Live at Tramps, NYC, 1996. It ended De La Soul's relationship with the label.

The trio signed with indie label Sanctuary Records, a company known more for putting out new albums by older metal and hard rock acts than for its roster of hip-hop. De La Soul's 2004 Sanctuary debut, The Grind Date, was generally well received but broke no new ground. In 2005, De La Soul appeared with the Gorillaz on the single "Feel Good Inc." (Number One, Modern Rock; Number 14 Pop), which won Best Pop Vocal Collaboration at the Grammys. The following year, De La Soul returned with a self-released mixtape, Impossible Mission: TV Series, Pt. 1, on which Posdnuos announced the mission statement in a track called "Freedom Train:" "No longer backed by record companies but back by popular demand." The clunky rhyme was not totally accurate; by 2006 a collection of spotty old and new material failed to chart at all. In 2008 the band toured with A Tribe Called Quest, Nas, Pharcyde and others on the Rock the Bells tour. ]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.1085&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Latin Rap/Hip-Hop Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:09:54 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.1085 art.1085 Big Punisher art.1085 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.1085&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.1085&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Jealous One's Envy in 1995. With a slew of collaborations and mix-tape appearances, he earned his reputation as a highly skilled lyricist. In 1997 Pun took the world by storm, releasing his first official single "I'm Not A Player." Showcasing his intricate verbal skills with freaky sex rhymes over a super-soulful track, it became an instant classic. The following year he unleashed his debut LP Capital Punishment. With all-star production by the likes of RZA, Juju, and Showbiz, the album shot up the charts, becoming the first hip-hop record by a Latino artist to go platinum (and double-platinum.) The year 1999 saw Pun working with a variety of artists, including the Terror Squad and Jennifer Lopez. Tragically, due to his failing health and weight problem, Big Pun died on February 7, 2000. Although he's gone, his legacy as an extraordinary emcee and much-loved hip-hop hero is secure. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.11974143&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Street Hop Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:38:32 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.11974143 art.11974143 Immortal Technique art.11974143 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.11974143&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.11974143&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Revolutionary Vol. 1, which balanced his hardcore mic skills with a heavy dose of well-informed anti-government sentiment. The CD sold thousands of copies and earned him "Unsigned Hype" status in The Source magazine in late 2002. Revolutionary Vol. 2 followed the next year, and found him sharpening his lyrical swords and continuing his attack on the injustices of American law enforcement, the military, covert ops, racist drug wars and President Bush. The album also featured Mumia Abdul Jamal and like-minded artists such as C-Rayz Walz, with provocative cover artwork that depicted many high-ranking U.S. officials shot to death in the Oval Office. The album moved even more units than his earlier efforts, won press from I>XXL and the Washington Post and further irked the police, who raided Tech's hotel room under false pretenses when he was touring in 2004. While the mainstream rap market is all about glorifying corporate-sponsored thuggery, Immortal Technique, like Public Enemy and dead prez before him, is on the forefront of bringing intelligent, politically-charged hip-hop back to prominence. With his high-quality songs, business-minded work ethic, and relentless performances, he is a much-needed element in the industry. Assuming he can avoid the wrath of the black helicopters, he could very well usher in a new movement of social justice in popular music. - Brolin Winning]]> http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.3375&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Hitmakers Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:27:12 -0800 Top East Coast Rap/Hip-Hop Artists on Rhapsody Online art.3375 art.3375 Heavy D & the Boyz art.3375 http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.3375&variant=play&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss http://www.rhapsody.com/goto?rcid=art.3375&variant=data&rws=%2Frap-hip-hop%2Feast-coast-rap-hip-hop%2Fartist-chart.rss Heavy. - Brolin Winning]]>