My List of The Most Underrated Hip-Hop Artist

I had this sudden urge to express my love for some of the Hip-Hop artist who I think are severely underrated. I will restrain from commenting on the mainstream Hip-Hop industry, but suffice to say it would be in a lot better shape if these guys had more of a look in.

In no particular order I shall begin -


Jedi Mind Tricks

JMT are probably my favourite hip-hop group and I think all their albums are brilliant, But if I had to choose a stand-out album it would have to be 'Servants in Heaven, Kings in Hell'. 'Uncommon Valor: A Vietnam Story' alone makes it one of the best hip-hop albums ever!



Masta Ace

With over 2 decades behind him, how Masta Ace has not become a house-hold name is beyond me. My Album of choice - Disposable Arts.




Jean Grae

That song leads me neatly on to Jean Grea. A constant reminder that there is still hope for female hip-hop...yes I'm looking at you Nicki.




Deltron 3030

Dan 'The Automator' plus anyone he works with is an instant classic! But Dan and Del the Funkee Homosapien is easily one of the best hip-hop albums ever made.




Cage

I have been a long-time fan of Cage, but I always felt that he had more in him. Then he released 'Hell's Winter' and all my concerns evaporated. For me, Cage's best album to date.




Fashawn

I can easily say that 'Boy Meets World' was the most over-looked album of 2009. First album in a long time that I didn't skip half the songs. My personal fav song is 'When She Calls', 'samsonite man' comes a close second.




GZA

Now GZA is quite well known but is without a doubt in the shadow of some of the other Wu members. GZA has been consistently great on his solo albums and for me superb collaborating with DJ muggs on 'Grandmasters'.




Last Emperor

Any MC who can write 2 great songs based solely on comics characters deserves a platinum plaque (or 2). Check out 'Palace of the Pretender' - a must have Hip-hop album.




Josh Martinez

Definitely an artist who has most peoples opinions split. I don't get it! I think he is unique and brilliant. Check out 'Buck up Princess'




Nappy Roots


Now they did have a bit of spot-light with 'Awnaw' but that song is not the best representation of how good Nappy Roots are. 'Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz' was their debut and still one of their best. 'One Forty'is one of my favourite tracks but as I can't find it, here is 'Back Home' from their new album




Kurupt

Kurupt has had his highs and lows and I have been a fan for the most part. Nothing has shown how great he is more so than 'Tha Streetz Iz a Mutha' - definitely an 'All Killer, no Filler' album.




Ras Kass
Again, another super consistent MC.




DJ Quik

A brilliant producer who produces great solo albums. My personal fav 'Balance & Options' Which brings us to a nice close with a song tittled 'Change Da Game'