Metal rap is a unique fusion of two powerful genres: heavy metal and rap. This blend creates a high-energy, intense sound that resonates with fans of both styles. Metal rappers often combine the aggression and intensity of metal with the lyrical prowess and rhythm of rap. In this article, we will explore the top 20 metal rappers who have made significant contributions to this genre.
Top 20 Metal Rappers to Follow
1. Ice-T (Body Count)
Ice-T, a pioneer in the fusion of metal and rap, formed the band Body Count in the early 90s. His aggressive lyrics and powerful stage presence have made Body Count a staple in the metal rap scene. The band’s debut album, Body Count, features the controversial track “Cop Killer,” which brought them significant attention.
2. Zack de la Rocha (Rage Against the Machine)
Zack de la Rocha, the frontman of Rage Against the Machine, is known for his politically charged lyrics and intense performances. The band’s self-titled debut album is a landmark in metal rap, with tracks like “Killing in the Name” and “Bullet in the Head” showcasing de la Rocha’s powerful delivery.
3. Mike Shinoda (Linkin Park)
Mike Shinoda, co-founder of Linkin Park, has been a key figure in bringing rap into the metal scene. His blend of rapping and singing, combined with the band’s nu-metal sound, has earned them a massive following. Albums like Hybrid Theory and Meteora feature Shinoda’s dynamic vocal style.
4. Fred Durst (Limp Bizkit)
Fred Durst, the lead vocalist of Limp Bizkit, is known for his brash and energetic rap style. The band’s music combines heavy guitar riffs with Durst’s aggressive rapping, creating hits like “Break Stuff” and “Rollin’.” Limp Bizkit’s influence on the metal rap genre is undeniable.
5. Tech N9ne
Tech N9ne, an independent rapper known for his rapid-fire delivery, has often incorporated metal elements into his music. His collaboration with bands like Slipknot and Korn has further cemented his place in the metal rap genre. Tracks like “Wither” and “Straight Out the Gate” highlight his versatility.
6. Jacoby Shaddix (Papa Roach)
Jacoby Shaddix, the lead vocalist of Papa Roach, seamlessly blends rap with metal in his performances. The band’s breakthrough hit, “Last Resort,” features Shaddix’s intense rapping over heavy guitar riffs, making it a defining track in the metal rap genre.
7. Serj Tankian (System of a Down)
Serj Tankian, known for his unique vocal style, has incorporated rap into System of a Down’s music. His rapid vocal delivery and thought-provoking lyrics can be heard in tracks like “Chop Suey!” and “B.Y.O.B.” Tankian’s ability to mix rap with metal makes him a standout in the genre.
8. Corey Taylor (Slipknot)
Corey Taylor, the frontman of Slipknot, often incorporates rap into his aggressive vocal style. Tracks like “Spit It Out” and “Wait and Bleed” showcase Taylor’s ability to switch between screaming and rapping, adding a unique dynamic to Slipknot’s sound.
9. Jonathan Davis (Korn)
Jonathan Davis, the lead singer of Korn, is known for his distinctive voice and incorporation of rap into the band’s music. Albums like Follow the Leader and Issues feature Davis’s rhythmic vocal delivery, blending seamlessly with Korn’s heavy, downtuned guitars.
10. Kid Rock
Kid Rock, a versatile artist, has successfully fused rap, rock, and metal throughout his career. His early albums, like Devil Without a Cause, feature hits like “Bawitdaba” and “Cowboy,” which showcase his ability to blend genres effortlessly.
11. Everlast (House of Pain)
Everlast, a member of House of Pain, brought a hip-hop influence to metal with his solo work and collaborations. Tracks like “Jump Around” and his solo hit “What It’s Like” highlight his ability to mix rap with rock and metal elements.
12. Jamie Madrox (Twiztid)
Jamie Madrox, part of the rap duo Twiztid, combines horrorcore rap with metal influences. The duo’s dark and aggressive style is evident in tracks like “We Don’t Die” and “Mutant X,” showcasing Madrox’s versatility as a rapper.
13. Charlie Scene (Hollywood Undead)
Charlie Scene, a member of Hollywood Undead, blends rap with metal and rock in the band’s music. Tracks like “Undead” and “Everywhere I Go” feature Scene’s energetic rapping, adding to the band’s dynamic sound.
14. Sen Dog (Cypress Hill)
Sen Dog, a member of Cypress Hill, has explored metal rap through collaborations and solo projects. His work with bands like Biohazard and his solo track “Rumble” showcase his ability to blend rap with heavy metal influences.
15. Sonny Sandoval (P.O.D.)
Sonny Sandoval, the lead vocalist of P.O.D., combines rap and reggae with metal in the band’s music. Tracks like “Alive” and “Youth of the Nation” feature Sandoval’s rhythmic vocal delivery, making P.O.D. a key player in the metal rap scene.
16. RZA (Wu-Tang Clan)
RZA, a member of the legendary Wu-Tang Clan, has incorporated metal influences into his solo work and collaborations. His production style often includes heavy guitar riffs, and tracks like “Grits” showcase his ability to blend genres.
17. M. Shadows (Avenged Sevenfold)
M. Shadows, the lead vocalist of Avenged Sevenfold, has occasionally incorporated rap into the band’s music. Tracks like “Scream” and “Critical Acclaim” feature Shadows’s rapid vocal delivery, adding a unique element to their heavy metal sound.
18. Tom Morello (Prophets of Rage)
Tom Morello, known for his work with Rage Against the Machine, brings his metal guitar skills to the rap-rock supergroup Prophets of Rage. The group’s music features heavy riffs and politically charged lyrics, continuing Morello’s legacy in metal rap.
19. Benji Webbe (Skindred)
Benji Webbe, the lead vocalist of Skindred, combines rap, reggae, and metal in the band’s music. Tracks like “Nobody” and “Pressure” showcase Webbe’s dynamic vocal style, making Skindred a unique force in the metal rap genre.
20. MCUD (Hed PE)
MCUD, the lead vocalist of Hed PE, blends rap and punk with metal in the band’s music. Tracks like “Bartender” and “Renegade” feature MCUD’s aggressive rapping over heavy guitar riffs, adding to the band’s intense sound.
See Also: Can You Tell Where Rap Music Is From by the Beat?
Conclusion
Metal rap is a genre that brings together the best of both worlds: the raw energy of metal and the rhythmic flow of rap. These 20 artists have made significant contributions to the genre, each bringing their unique style and influence. Whether through aggressive lyrics, powerful performances, or innovative collaborations, these metal rappers continue to shape and define the sound of metal rap.
