In a recent interview with superstar Jay-Z, a question many people have wondered about Hov was answered, as Jay-Z named his top 5 emcees.
While being interviewed for his new book “Decoded,” Jay-Z let the audience ask a couple of questions, this included who is Hov’s top 5 rappers.
Although some of the people on the list may not surprise, there is one of the list that has sparked a debate about if the Jigga man is listing these honestly, or just being nice.
Click the page #’s below to see the artists who inspire Jay-z, followed by a video of Jay-Z explaining them all.
Notorious B.I.G.
It’s no surprise that Jay-Z would name Big first, Jay-Z has called Biggie his brother on numerous occasions, and can be spotted spitting a Big line in almost every other song.
Tupac Shakur
Although he respects him lyrically, Hov likes Pac because of his passion and the way he overcame the struggle. 2Pac is the definition of a street warrior who wrote the poems of the streets before he was tragically gunned down.
Kool G Rap
One half of the Juice Crew, it’s easy to see why Jay-Z would be inspired by the Queens Rapper, as he was one of the pioneers of Hip-Hop who represented New York the same way that Jay-Z does.
KRS-One
As everyone should have on their list, “The Professor” of Hip-Hop may of been the most influential person in not just East Coast Hip-Hop, but Hip-Hop in general.
This one was no surprise..
Eminem
Although Hov and Em are no strangers to each other, this name may surprise a couple of people.
Working together since Jay-Z’s Blueprint up to the recent concerts held in New York and Jay-Z, Hov has always loved Eminem’s lyrical slaughter as well as the type of energy he brings to a track.
Peep the video below to see Hov explain all of his choices.
