S. Samuel
[Each week, SOHH asks two entertainment personalities to name their Top 5 rappers of all-time. To make things tricky, we've created a "Hall of Fame" of emcees (see right) who are universally respected and therefore may not be mentioned. After Paul Wall unloaded his fave five, Diggy Simmons reveals his top spitters.]
Lupe Fiasco. I’m gonna start it off with Lupe Fiasco. I feel like Lupe is one of those guys in hip-hop that gets overlooked. I feel like he’s one of the best lyricists and arguably the best to ever do it as well.
Andre 3000. I want to put Andre 3000 in there as well. Honestly, I think he’s the best to ever do it. For real. Just look at his style, his flow, and just the way he even sings on some [tracks]. He’s done so much more for hip-hop than people even know. He’s definitely one of those guy’s that’s overlooked.
Kanye West. I’m gonna name Kanye West. I’ve loved everything Kanye West has done in his music. From 808’s & Heartbreaks to College Dropout, it’s been like undeniable. When he puts out a body of work, it’s a real body of work. Sonically, it’s just dope. So I’m a fan of just how much hard work he puts in. From doing 33 mixes, I heard, to doing his single, “All of the Lights”, to just the really big things he does. And looking at how much of a big vision he has is really inspiring as well, all the way down to the “Glow in the Dark” tour. I just love the way he portrays his vision.
Big L. Big L. I’m just a straight up fan of how lyrically dope he was. He’s incredible. That’s all I can say. He’s always put it down, song for song for song.
Canibus. I’m going to name Canibus. I name him because of his flow. His flow is so good and I’ve been inspired by it. I’m also inspired by how aggressive he is on the mic and obviously he’s inspired me lyrically. So shout-out to Canibus. He’s one of the best, in my opinion.
