BET (Black Entertainment Television) has named today the Top 10 Rappers of the 21st Century as voted by fans and narrowed by an elite “Hip Hop Supreme Court” of some of the hottest producers, hip hop deejays, and the industry’s biggest influencers.

To be eligible for the top 10 rappers of the 21st century, the rapper must be a solo artist who released his or her first solo album in 1999 or later.  These requirements exclude hip-hop heavy weights The Notorious B.I.G., Tupac Shakur, Jay Z, Nas, and Snoop from the list.  Rappers were also  evaluated on the criteria of flow, lyricism, subject range, cultural impact, sales and digital swagger.

Here they are:

#10 – Rick Ross

Rick Ross bossed up the game in the 21st century. He is one of the few rappers to survive a 50 Cent rivalry by continuing to put out quality music.

#9 – Jadakiss

Jadakiss has always been praised for his complex rhymes and the meaning behind his words.

#8 – Young Jeezy

Young Jeezy bumps in every whip, from the North to the South. This Southern MC is respected for his hardcore delivery and thug narratives.

#7 – Drake

Aubrey “Drake” Graham has managed to win over the hearts of hip hop fans this past year. After releasing his debut album, “Thank Me Later,” Drake has shown that he is the one to watch.

#6 – Ludacris

It’s hard to talk about the 21st century without mentioning Ludacris. The Atlanta-based rapper is arguably one of the most consistent when it comes to the quality of his music.

# 5 – T.I.

ATL-native T.I. may be controversial in his actions, but when it comes to rap, this MC has got the South on lock.

# 4 – 50 Cent

In less than 10 years, 50 Cent has released four albums, three of which have gone platinum (or in some cases, multi-platinum). This controversial rapper has consistently put out hits.

# 3 – Kanye West

The highly successful rapper/producer Kanye West is more than just a rapper. But the level of his rap game has been elevated since his debut.

# 2 – Lil’ Wayne

Lil’ Wayne is a rock star. The Young Money Millionaire has shown the most growth in the 21st century.

# 1 – Eminem

Selling more records than anyone on the list, Eminem is not only praised for his commercial success, but is highly respected by his peers for his skill.

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Tags: BET, eminem