Top 7 Influential 90s Rap Groups You Should Know
The 90s marked a golden era for hip-hop, giving rise to some of the most influential and iconic rap groups in music history. These artists not only shaped the sound of a generation but also had a lasting impact on popular culture. From East Coast to West Coast, the 90s rap scene was diverse, innovative, and brimming with talent that continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.
This article explores seven of the best 90s rap groups that left an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape. From the gritty street narratives of N.W.A to the introspective lyricism of A Tribe Called Quest, these famous hip hop groups showcased the genre’s versatility and power. Readers will discover the unique styles, groundbreaking albums, and enduring legacies of these 90s rap bands, gaining insight into why they remain essential listening for any hip-hop enthusiast.
Wu-Tang Clan Origins
The Wu-Tang Clan, one of the most influential hip-hop groups of all time, emerged from the streets of Staten Island, New York, in the early 1990s . The group’s roots can be traced back to the late 1980s when cousins Robert Diggs (RZA), Gary Grice (GZA), and Russell Jones (Ol’ Dirty Bastard) formed a crew called Force of the Imperial Master, also known as All in Together Now Crew .
In 1992, the Wu-Tang Clan officially formed, taking its name from the martial arts film “Shaolin and Wu Tang” . RZA stepped up as the group’s unofficial leader and producer, while Jones adopted the moniker Ol’ Dirty Bastard . The group’s lineup expanded to include nine core members: Ghostface Killah, GZA, Inspectah Deck, Masta Killa, Method Man, Raekwon, RZA, U-God, and Ol’ Dirty Bastard .
Wu-Tang Clan’s Iconic Albums
The Wu-Tang Clan’s debut single, “Protect Ya Neck,” released independently in 1993, gained popularity in the underground hip-hop scene . This success led to a unique record deal with Loud/RCA, allowing members to pursue solo projects alongside group endeavors .
Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)
In November 1993, the group released their groundbreaking debut album, “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” . This album quickly became a critical and commercial success, establishing itself as one of the most influential hip-hop albums of all time . RZA’s production, characterized by a combination of samples from kung fu films, obscure soul records, and chopped-up beats, created a dark, atmospheric sound that was both menacing and melodic .
Wu-Tang Forever
The group’s sophomore album, “Wu-Tang Forever,” was released in June 1997 and debuted at number one on the Billboard charts . This double album featured the epic single “Triumph,” which showcased all nine members in a five-minute track . RZA’s production evolved, incorporating more keyboards and strings, and introducing two production protégés, True Master and 4th Disciple .
Wu-Tang Clan’s Impact on Hip-Hop
The Wu-Tang Clan’s influence on hip-hop and popular culture has been profound and long-lasting. Their unique approach to group dynamics and solo careers set a new standard in the industry .
Innovative Business Model
The group’s strategy of allowing members to pursue solo projects while maintaining a strong collective identity opened doors for large crews like The Diplomats, Odd Future, and Beast Coast to follow similar models . This approach helped the Wu-Tang brand quickly permeate the music industry .
Linguistic Innovation
Wu-Tang Clan introduced a new lexicon to hip-hop, blending influences from Five Percent Nation philosophy, Asian cinema, and street slang . Their unique vocabulary brought audiences into their world, speaking to them on their own terms .
Production Techniques
RZA’s production style, characterized by the use of obscure samples and atmospheric soundscapes, influenced countless producers in subsequent years, including Kanye West and The Alchemist . His approach to sampling and beat-making helped define the sound of 1990s hip-hop .
Cultural Impact
The Wu-Tang Clan’s influence extends beyond music. They pioneered hip-hop entrepreneurship by creating their own fashion line, Wu Wear, and even releasing a video game, “Wu-Tang: Shaolin Style” . Their iconic yellow “W” logo has become nearly as recognizable as those of major brands like Coca-Cola or Pepsi .
N.W.A’s Controversial Beginnings
N.W.A, short for “Niggaz Wit Attitudes,” emerged from the streets of Compton, California, in 1986. The group was formed by Eazy-E, who used his earnings from drug dealing to fund the launch of Ruthless Records . The original lineup included Eazy-E, Dr. Dre, DJ Yella, Arabian Prince, and Ice Cube, with MC Ren and The D.O.C. joining later .
Self-styled as “the world’s most dangerous group,” N.W.A quickly gained notoriety for their unapologetic portrayal of life in the inner city . Their music, which they referred to as “reality rap,” offered uncensored thoughts on topics such as gang activity, drug dealing, and police brutality .
N.W.A’s Groundbreaking Albums
Straight Outta Compton
N.W.A’s debut album, “Straight Outta Compton,” released in 1988, was a game-changer in the hip-hop world. The album’s opening salvo of three tracks set the tone for their aggressive and unfiltered style . It initially reached number 37 on the US Billboard 200 but has since climbed to number four and sold over 1.5 million copies in the US alone .
The album’s most controversial track, “Fuck tha Police,” protested against police brutality and racial profiling. This song drew the attention of the FBI, who sent a warning letter to Priority Records, inadvertently boosting album sales .
Niggaz4Life
N.W.A’s second and final studio album, “Niggaz4Life” (also known as “Efil4zaggin”), was released in 1991. It achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first hardcore rap album to reach number one on the Billboard 200 sales charts .
N.W.A’s Influence on West Coast Rap
N.W.A’s impact on hip-hop and popular culture has been profound and long-lasting. They are credited with pioneering the subgenre of gangsta rap, although they preferred to call their style “reality rap” . Their groundbreaking production techniques, characterized by Dr. Dre and DJ Yella’s funky, bass-heavy beats and innovative use of samples, helped define the sound of 1990s hip-hop .
The group’s influence extended beyond music. They opened up rap to a wider audience, including white American listeners, contributing to the rapid spread of rap within the American population starting from the late 1980s . Their legacy continues to inspire generations of hip-hop artists, shaping the evolution of rap both musically and lyrically.
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s Rapid-Fire Flow
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony revolutionized the rap scene with their unique and complex flow patterns. Their style encompasses various fast-rap techniques, including the lazy flow, the knockback flow, and the rush flow . The group’s ability to stack syllables back-to-back without breathing creates a percussive effect, exemplified in tracks like “Hater Nation” .
What sets Bone Thugs-N-Harmony apart is their versatility in flow patterns. They seamlessly transition between different styles within a single verse, keeping listeners engaged and entertained . This innovative approach to rap was unparalleled in their era, making them stand out in the hip-hop landscape.
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s Melodic Approach
The group’s melodic approach to rap is a defining characteristic of their sound. They incorporate harmonizing and singing into their rapid-fire delivery, creating a unique blend of aggression and melody . This style allows them to express a wide range of emotions, from joy to futility, as demonstrated in their hit single “1st of Tha Month” .
Bizzy Bone, in particular, is noted for his exceptional skill in manipulating rhythm and melody. His ability to place notes in multiple rhythmic positions over a double-time beat adds complexity to their music, making it endlessly re-listenable . This technique creates layers within their songs, challenging listeners to interpret the beat in various ways.
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s Hit Singles
Throughout their career, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony has produced numerous chart-topping singles. Some of their most popular tracks include:
1. “Tha Crossroads” (D.J. U-Neek’s Mo Thug Remix) – 667,300 plays“1st of tha Month” – 330,600 plays
2. “Thuggish Ruggish Bone” – 247,100 plays
3. “Thug Luv” – 204,700 plays
4. “I Tried” – 129,400 plays
These singles showcase the group’s ability to create catchy, melodic rap songs while maintaining their signature rapid-fire delivery. Their discography includes several studio albums, compilation albums, and featured singles, demonstrating their prolific output and lasting impact on the hip-hop genre .
Outkast’s Southern Roots
Outkast, the legendary Atlanta hip-hop duo consisting of André “André 3000” Benjamin and Antwan “Big Boi” Patton, emerged as pioneers of Southern hip-hop in the early 1990s. The group’s journey began when they befriended each other two years prior to their musical collaboration . Their partnership with production team Organized Noize led to a record contract with LaFace Records, making them the first hip-hop act signed to the label in 1992 .
Outkast’s debut album, “Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik,” released in 1994, showcased their unique Southern perspective. The album featured live instrumentation in its hip-hop production, blending elements from funk and soul genres . It debuted at number 20 on the US Billboard 200 and spawned the commercially successful single “Player’s Ball,” which reached number 37 on the US Billboard Hot 100 .
Outkast’s Innovative Style
Outkast’s style evolved significantly throughout their career, setting them apart from their contemporaries. In their early days, they sported Atlanta Braves jerseys and baseball caps, paired with Nikes and loose-fitting pants, typical of ’90s rappers . However, they quickly began to showcase their eccentric tastes, with André 3000 donning furry Kangols and Big Boi wearing coordinated chessboard flat caps and tracksuits .
As their career progressed, Outkast’s fashion choices became increasingly bold and innovative. André 3000, in particular, embraced a flamboyant style reminiscent of ’70s and early ’80s hip-hop legends. He was known for wearing football pads as fashion and sporting rare Nike sneakers at major awards shows . Big Boi, while more understated, was equally influential, often seen in unbranded football shirts and Canadian tuxedos .
Outkast’s Chart-Topping Success
Outkast’s musical journey was marked by consistent commercial success and critical acclaim. Their second and third albums, “ATLiens” (1996) and “Aquemini” (1998), both peaked at number two on the Billboard 200 and were certified double-platinum by the RIAA . The group’s fourth studio album, “Stankonia,” achieved international success, appearing on charts in Australia, Germany, and the United Kingdom .
The duo’s magnum opus, “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below,” released in 2003, became their first album to reach number one on the Billboard 200 . It was later certified 11-times-platinum by the RIAA, double-platinum in the United Kingdom, and New Zealand . The album’s lead single, “Hey Ya!,” topped the Billboard Hot 100 and charts in Australia and Sweden, solidifying Outkast’s status as global superstars .
A Tribe Called Quest’s Formation
A Tribe Called Quest emerged as a pioneering force in hip-hop, forming in St. Albans, Queens, New York, in 1985 . The group initially consisted of rapper and main producer Q-Tip, rapper Phife Dawg, DJ and co-producer Ali Shaheed Muhammad, and rapper Jarobi White . Their roots trace back to Queens, where Q-Tip and Phife Dawg, childhood friends, joined forces with Brooklyn native Ali Shaheed Muhammad .
The group quickly became an integral part of the Native Tongues collective, a family of conscious hip-hop artists that included notable names like Yasiin Bey (formerly known as Mos Def) and Common . This association set the stage for A Tribe Called Quest’s unique approach to hip-hop, which would soon revolutionize the genre.
A Tribe Called Quest’s Unique Sound
A Tribe Called Quest brought a refreshing and distinctive style to hip-hop, setting them apart from their contemporaries . Their sound was characterized by a sophisticated and musically intricate approach, blending elements of jazz, funk, and soul with hip-hop beats . This innovative fusion helped bridge the gap between jazz and hip-hop, incorporating bebop and hard bop samples into their productions .
The group’s production style, which often featured live instrumentation, marked a departure from the James Brown drum breaks and P-Funk basslines that dominated hip-hop at the time . This unique approach influenced many of their contemporaries and successors, including Dr. Dre, who was inspired to produce his debut album “The Chronic” after listening to A Tribe Called Quest’s “The Low End Theory” .
A Tribe Called Quest’s Legacy
A Tribe Called Quest’s impact on hip-hop and popular culture has been profound and long-lasting. They are widely regarded as pioneers of alternative hip-hop music, pushing the boundaries of the genre and inspiring countless artists who followed . Their influence extends beyond music, as they challenged the macho posturing often associated with rap, promoting individuality, diversity, and acceptance .
The group’s lyrical content addressed a wide range of topics, including spirituality, race, social justice, and cultural issues . This conscious approach to rap helped shift the focus from gangster rap to a more introspective and socially aware style of hip-hop . Their work has been credited with inspiring a new generation of artists, including D’Angelo, Erykah Badu, Maxwell, Lauryn Hill, André 3000, Kanye West, and Talib Kweli .
A Tribe Called Quest’s legacy also includes launching the solo careers of artists like Busta Rhymes, J Dilla, and Consequence . Their influence continues to resonate in modern hip-hop, with artists like Kendrick Lamar and Joey Bada$$ carrying on their tradition of incorporating political thought and social justice issues into their lyrics .
Cypress Hill’s Latino Influence
Cypress Hill emerged as a pioneering force in hip-hop, breaking new ground as one of the few Latin American groups to make a significant impact on rap music . The group’s roots trace back to Los Angeles, where brothers Senen Reyes (Sen Dog) and Ulpiano Sergio Reyes (Mellow Man Ace) immigrated from Cuba in 1971 . This Latino heritage played a crucial role in shaping their unique identity and sound.
The group’s approach to incorporating their Latino background was subtle yet impactful. B-Real, of Cuban and Mexican descent, and Sen Dog initially wrote lyrics in both Spanish and English . This bilingual approach was evident in their early work, with their debut album featuring two Spanish-language tracks, “Latin Lingo” and “Tres Equis” .
Cypress Hill’s Latino influence extended beyond language. Their esthetic, including their laid-back but menacing stoner stance and cholo-indebted wardrobe, had a significant impact on Latin American hip-hop . This influence was particularly felt in countries like Argentina, Venezuela, Chile, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, where hip-hop was taking root in the 1990s .
Cypress Hill’s Signature Sound
Cypress Hill’s music was characterized by a unique blend of elements that set them apart from their contemporaries. DJ Muggs, the group’s producer, crafted a sound that was described as sinister minimalist funk . His production style often featured raw beats combined with thumping piano-bass loops and siren-like wails, creating a skeletal groove that allowed the vocals to stand out .
The group’s lyrical content covered a wide range of topics, including:
1. Recreational marijuana use (“I Wanna Get High”)
2. Street life (“Hand on the Pump”)
3. Gangsta posturing (“How I Could Just Kill a Man”)
4. Spanglish slang (“Latin Lingo”)
B-Real’s sharp, nasal delivery contrasted with Sen Dog’s echo chamber refrains, creating a distinctive vocal dynamic . This unique combination of production and vocal styles resulted in a sound that was immediately recognizable and influential.
Cypress Hill’s Cultural Impact
Cypress Hill’s influence extended far beyond the hip-hop community. They achieved crossover success with the rock crowd and were cited as an influence by nu metal bands such as Deftones, Limp Bizkit, System of a Down, Linkin Park, and Korn . Their impact on music was so significant that Korn’s 1994 single “Blind” featured a bassline that was a direct tribute to Cypress Hill’s 1993 track “Lick a Shot” .
The group’s cultural footprint was substantial, shaping the musical identity of Black and brown Los Angeles for more than three decades . They helped cement U.S. Latinos’ place in hip-hop history, paving the way for artists like Big Pun, Noreaga, and Fat Joe .
Cypress Hill’s influence also reached Latin America, where they became a huge inspiration for the emerging hip-hop scenes. Their sound and esthetic influenced important albums like Illya Kuryaki and the Valderramas’ “Chaco” (1995), Control Machete’s “Mucho Barato” (1996), and Tiro de Gracia’s “Ser Humano” (1997) .
In recognition of their Latin American fanbase, Cypress Hill released “Grandes Éxitos en Español” in 1999, a Spanish-language album that allowed their Latin fans to fully understand their lyrics . This album cemented Cypress Hill’s status as architects of a sound that made history and reassured the role of Latinxs in hip-hop .
Mobb Deep’s Gritty Street Sound
Emerging from the streets of Queensbridge, New York in the early 1990s, Mobb Deep quickly established themselves as pioneers of hardcore East Coast hip-hop . The duo, consisting of rappers Prodigy and Havoc, crafted a unique sound that captured the raw essence of urban life. Their music was characterized by haunting, suffocating beats produced by Havoc, combined with relentlessly violent and nihilistic rhymes delivered by Prodigy with stone-faced intensity .
Mobb Deep’s breakthrough came with their sophomore album, “The Infamous,” released in 1995 . This seminal work solidified their place in hip-hop history, showcasing their growth as storytellers and their ability to paint vivid pictures of urban struggles and survival . The album’s lead single, “Shook Ones Pt. II,” became an instant classic, encapsulating the essence of Mobb Deep’s distinctive sound and lyrical prowess .
Mobb Deep’s Influential Lyrics
Prodigy’s lyrical evolution between Mobb Deep’s debut album “Juvenile Hell” (1993) and “The Infamous” (1995) was nothing short of remarkable . His writing transformed into a feared wordsmith’s craft, producing some of the most memorable opening lines in hip-hop’s highly competitive canon . Prodigy’s aim was to “stab your brain with your nose bone,” as he put it, representing Queens to the fullest with his hardboiled, street-injected style .
The duo’s lyrics often touched on themes of street life, crime, and survival. As Prodigy famously rapped in “Shook Ones Pt. II”:
“There’s a war goin’ on outside no man is safe from / You could run, but you can’t hide forever / From these streets that we done took / You walkin’ with your head down / Scared to look, you shook / ‘Cause ain’t no such things as halfway crooks”
This raw, unfiltered approach to storytelling resonated deeply with listeners, making Mobb Deep the true soundtrack for New York hustlers and gangsters .
Mobb Deep’s Impact on East Coast Rap
Mobb Deep’s influence on the East Coast rap scene and hip-hop as a whole cannot be overstated. They helped popularize the 1990s slang called the “Dunn language,” first recorded in their 1999 single “Quiet Storm” . Their unapologetic and authentic approach inspired countless artists to stay true to their roots and embrace their unique perspectives .
The duo’s impact extended beyond their immediate contemporaries. Modern acts like Roc Marciano and Griselda continue to emulate the creepy melodies and unflinching menace that Havoc and Prodigy pioneered . Mobb Deep’s legacy as one of the greatest hip-hop acts is firmly established, with their music selling over three million records .
Mobb Deep’s contribution to hip-hop goes beyond their commercial success. They represented the purest form of reality rap, offering full transparency and touching on life as they knew it, without a filter . This approach not only solidified their place in hip-hop history but also influenced a new generation of rappers, ensuring that Mobb Deep’s gritty, authentic sound continues to resonate in the world of hip-hop.
Honorable Mention – G-Unit
I know these guys are not in the 90s but they are so influential to the game they deserve mention. G-Unit, led by 50 Cent, played a significant role in revitalizing and popularizing gangsta rap in the early 2000s. Their gritty lyrics, street narratives, and aggressive beats became synonymous with the East Coast hip-hop sound of that era. The group’s raw authenticity and unfiltered storytelling resonated deeply with listeners, providing a voice for those marginalized by society and influencing the direction of hip-hop music during that time.
Formation
G-Unit was formed in the late 1990s by childhood friends 50 Cent, Lloyd Banks, and Tony Yayo, who all grew up in South Jamaica, Queens, New York City 1. The group’s origins can be traced back to their teenage years when they began rapping together. However, the official formation of G-Unit as a group came after 50 Cent was shot in 2000 and lost his record deal with Columbia Records. This setback prompted 50 Cent to start recording music independently with Banks and Yayo. Between 2002 and 2003, they released several influential mixtapes, including “50 Cent Is the Future,” “God’s Plan,” “No Mercy, No Fear,” and “Automatic Gunfire”. These mixtapes helped establish G-Unit’s presence in the hip-hop scene and laid the foundation for their future success.
Brief membership: The Game was made a member of G-Unit in late 2003, after the release of the group’s debut album “Beg for Mercy”. His addition was an effort to promote him after he was signed to Aftermath/Interscope Records. His controversial departure: The Game was ousted from G-Unit in February 2005, after only being a member for a little over a year. 50 Cent cited “alleged disloyalty” as the reason for his removal from the group. This departure led to a significant feud between The Game and G-Unit, resulting in numerous diss tracks being released throughout 2005 and 2006
Business Ventures
G-Unit’s impact extended beyond music into various aspects of popular culture. The group’s influence on fashion was particularly notable, with their style choices influencing streetwear trends and popularizing certain brands. Additionally, G-Unit’s expansion into other business ventures, including clothing lines and video games, set a precedent for hip-hop artists to leverage their musical success into broader entrepreneurial opportunities, inspiring many in the hip-hop community to pursue diverse business interests.
G-Unit Clothing Company: 50 Cent launched his own clothing line called “G-Unit Clothing Company”. This venture showcased G-Unit’s influence beyond music, extending into the fashion industry and streetwear culture. Partnership with Marc Ecko: G-Unit’s clothing line was released in partnership with Marc Ecko in 2003. This collaboration helped establish G-Unit as a significant player in the hip-hop fashion scene.
Conclusion
The 90s rap scene left an indelible mark on hip-hop, shaping its sound and culture for generations to come. From Wu-Tang Clan’s innovative business model to N.W.A’s raw storytelling, these 90s rap groups pushed boundaries and gave voice to their communities. Their influence extends beyond music, having an impact on fashion, language, and social consciousness.
To wrap up, these 90s rap groups’ legacies continue to inspire and shape modern hip-hop. Their groundbreaking styles, from Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s melodic flow to A Tribe Called Quest’s jazz-infused beats, show the genre’s versatility. As we look back, it’s clear these artists didn’t just make music – they started a revolution in hip-hop that still echoes today.
As we’ve taken this nostalgic journey through the golden era of 90s hip-hop, with the best 90s rap groups, it’s clear that the decade’s influence continues to resonate in today’s music scene. If you’re craving fresh beats that capture the essence of that iconic 90s sound while bringing something new to the table, it’s time to tune into Stangr the Man. This up-and-coming artist blends classic hip-hop vibes with contemporary flair, creating a unique sound that pays homage to the legends we’ve discussed while carving out his own path.
Don’t let your musical exploration end with the 90s – expand your playlist and discover how Stangr the Man is keeping the spirit of golden age hip-hop alive. Head over to Spotify now and give Stangr the Man a listen. Who knows? You might just find your new favorite artist who bridges the gap between the unforgettable 90s and today’s hip-hop landscape.
FAQs
Who are some of the most influential rap artists from the 90s?
The 90s rap scene was dominated by iconic figures such as Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas, Jay-Z, Wu-Tang Clan, Snoop Dogg, OutKast, Eminem, Lauryn Hill, and DMX. These artists are celebrated for their distinctive styles, profound lyrics, and significant impacts on the rap genre.
Which rap group was considered the best in the 90s?
Several groups from earlier decades continued to influence the rap scene into the 90s. Notable among them are Run-D.M.C., who played a pivotal role in bringing hip-hop to mainstream culture, LL Cool J, the Beastie Boys, Eric B., and Public Enemy, who remained active and influential throughout the decade.
Who is considered the most influential rap group in history?
Run-D.M.C. is often cited as an extremely influential group in the rap genre, earning widespread acclaim and respect. Public Enemy is also considered a crucial act in hip-hop history. Additionally, N.W.A., hailing from Compton, California, is recognized as a seminal group in the development of West Coast rap.
Which group is known as the most influential in gangsta rap?
N.W.A. stands out as one of the most influential and controversial groups in hip-hop history. They played a critical role in transforming gangsta rap from a local phenomenon in South Central Los Angeles into a major force in the national music scene, especially with their explosive debut album, “Straight Outta Compton,” which sold 3 million copies.
The 51 Immortal Hip-Hop Anthems: The Certified Diamond Rap Singles
Hip Hop History: Evolution from Streets to Global Phenomenon
