It wasn’t long ago that hip-hop media could be separated into two distinct buckets. In one bucket were the Journalists—magazine writers, bloggers, and cultural critics who wrote for publications like The Source, XXL, and eventually AllHipHop, NahRight, and yes, Complex. The Journalists were opinionated and sometimes critical, but rarely seen or heard. In the other bucket were the Personalities—a lineage of on-air hosts from Fab 5 Freddy and Dee Barnes to Ed Lover and Big Tigger—who were paid to be congenial insiders, but not to express their opinions. Hip-hop media was once a relatively small industry, serving one primary function: to promote hip-hop music.
Over the past decade, however, the landscape has drastically changed. The distinction between Journalists and Personalities has blurred; so too has the difference between journalism and entertainment. As hip-hop has evolved into mainstream culture, rap media has exploded—so much so that the people who cover the music can generate more money and interest than the musicians themselves. To sort through this new glut of hip-hop media personalities, Complex has curated its inaugural Hip-Hop Media Power Ranking. Prepare to disagree.
What constitutes power in hip-hop media? The power to book the biggest players in rap and extract meaningful dialogue from them—or to make appealing content out of unknown emerging talent or forgotten has-beens. The power to make news simply by expressing your opinion on the news. The power to not only draw the ear of a general audience but also the ears of the music industry, so much so that your words can affect the business. And lastly, the power to turn your passion for hip-hop and content into a multimillion dollar empire.
The rise of the media personality in hip-hop is due to both overarching media trends and reasons unique to rap. The proliferation of digital platforms and social media democratized content creation, so that anyone with a POV and a passion could engage with a global audience. With playlist algorithms diminishing the need for musical tastemakers, the role of hip-hop media has become more about commentary—and gossip—than gatekeeping. The familiar warring-pundit debate format, pioneered by shows like CNN’s Crossfire and ESPN’s First Take, was co-opted by rap, as in Complex’s Everyday Struggle.
And let’s not discount three other key factors: (1) the growing number of rappers either aging out of their recording primes or seeking new revenue streams; and (2) the mid 2010s era of SoundCloud rap, which provided a clear inflection point between old rap and new rap and endless fodder for debate; and (3) the adaptive ingenuity and hyper-competitive nature of the genre, which lends itself not only to competitive disagreements on rap topics, but also fierce competition between rap personalities.
Before we begin our countdown—and before you begin arguing—here’s an FAQ on the methodology behind the ranking.
Who’s on the list?
As this is a ranking of people, not platforms or shows, we specifically focused on individuals who are public-facing personalities. That’s why you won’t find outlets like Say Cheese or The Shade Room on the list, but you will see N.O.R.E. (but not the show Drink Champs).
Where’s Speedy Morman and B. Dot?
To remove any potential for bias, we excluded any personalities who are currently attached to Complex programming.
How did you rank them?
We put names in a hat and drew them out one by one. Just kidding. We used a scoring method based on five categories: (1) commentary and banter; (2) star power of guests; (3) consistency; (4) viral moments; and (5) integrity of content. And then we debated the list like hell before reaching consensus on the ranking you see here.
OK, but how come this legendary radio DJ is so far below this newbie Twitch streamer?
We engineered the list to be a ranking of the right now—which means that current relevance and influence supersedes legacy and longevity.
Why are you including people who have been accused of abuse, misconduct, or sexual grooming?
We ranked the personalities strictly based on their content, not their character.
So who’s No. 1?
Well, you’ll have to read on and see…
26.
It wasn’t long ago that hip-hop media could be separated into two distinct buckets. In one bucket were the Journalists—magazine writers, bloggers, and cultural critics who wrote for publications like The Source, XXL, and eventually AllHipHop, NahRight, and yes, Complex. The Journalists were opinionated and sometimes critical, but rarely seen or heard. In the other bucket were the Personalities—a lineage of on-air hosts from Fab 5 Freddy and Dee Barnes to Ed Lover and Big Tigger—who were paid to be congenial insiders, but not to express their opinions. Hip-hop media was once a relatively small industry, serving one primary function: to promote hip-hop music.
Over the past decade, however, the landscape has drastically changed. The distinction between Journalists and Personalities has blurred; so too has the difference between journalism and entertainment. As hip-hop has evolved into mainstream culture, rap media has exploded—so much so that the people who cover the music can generate more money and interest than the musicians themselves. To sort through this new glut of hip-hop media personalities, Complex has curated its inaugural Hip-Hop Media Power Ranking. Prepare to disagree.
What constitutes power in hip-hop media? The power to book the biggest players in rap and extract meaningful dialogue from them—or to make appealing content out of unknown emerging talent or forgotten has-beens. The power to make news simply by expressing your opinion on the news. The power to not only draw the ear of a general audience but also the ears of the music industry, so much so that your words can affect the business. And lastly, the power to turn your passion for hip-hop and content into a multimillion dollar empire.
The rise of the media personality in hip-hop is due to both overarching media trends and reasons unique to rap. The proliferation of digital platforms and social media democratized content creation, so that anyone with a POV and a passion could engage with a global audience. With playlist algorithms diminishing the need for musical tastemakers, the role of hip-hop media has become more about commentary—and gossip—than gatekeeping. The familiar warring-pundit debate format, pioneered by shows like CNN’s Crossfire and ESPN’s First Take, was co-opted by rap, as in Complex’s Everyday Struggle.
And let’s not discount three other key factors: (1) the growing number of rappers either aging out of their recording primes or seeking new revenue streams; and (2) the mid 2010s era of SoundCloud rap, which provided a clear inflection point between old rap and new rap and endless fodder for debate; and (3) the adaptive ingenuity and hyper-competitive nature of the genre, which lends itself not only to competitive disagreements on rap topics, but also fierce competition between rap personalities.
Before we begin our countdown—and before you begin arguing—here’s an FAQ on the methodology behind the ranking.
Who’s on the list?
As this is a ranking of people, not platforms or shows, we specifically focused on individuals who are public-facing personalities. That’s why you won’t find outlets like Say Cheese or The Shade Room on the list, but you will see N.O.R.E. (but not the show Drink Champs).
Where’s Speedy Morman and B. Dot?
To remove any potential for bias, we excluded any personalities who are currently attached to Complex programming.
How did you rank them?
We put names in a hat and drew them out one by one. Just kidding. We used a scoring method based on five categories: (1) commentary and banter; (2) star power of guests; (3) consistency; (4) viral moments; and (5) integrity of content. And then we debated the list like hell before reaching consensus on the ranking you see here.
OK, but how come this legendary radio DJ is so far below this newbie Twitch streamer?
We engineered the list to be a ranking of the right now—which means that current relevance and influence supersedes legacy and longevity.
Why are you including people who have been accused of abuse, misconduct, or sexual grooming?
We ranked the personalities strictly based on their content, not their character.
So who’s No. 1?
Well, you’ll have to read on and see…
25.Jazzy
Featured on: Jazzy’s World TV
Known for: Being a precocious kid interviewing global music stars
Followers: 430K IG; 372K YouTube
Most memorable moments: Jay-Z, J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar
Jazzy collects high-profile interviews like infinity stones. So far, the 12-year-old prodigy has linked up with Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nicki Minaj—and something tells us it’s only a matter of time before she gets Drake on the record. Her interview style relies heavily on generic questions like, “What advice would you give to an aspiring artist?” or “Who are some artists that inspire you?” But how much more can we ask from a pre-teen? Besides, the news cycle is already heavy and dark enough. Jazzy may not be the source you go to for big reveals, but she is filling a growing demand for lighthearted and fun content in the hip-hop media space.
24.Nyla Symone
Featured on: The Breakfast Club, Rotation Roundtable
Known for: Being Charlemagne’s protégée and an emerging media talent
Followers: 65.4K IG
Most memorable moments: Guest host on The Breakfast Club for interview with Finesse2Tymes
At just 24, Nyla Symone is one of the youngest female DJs to crack the mic in the largest U.S. market. The DMV native first got her foot in the door by landing an internship at Power 105.1 for The Angie Martinez Show, before earning a permanent gig as a DJ. She has since gained attention as an interviewer on the station with sit-downs with the likes of Blueface and Finesse2Tymes. Symone recently joined Amazon Music’s new rap debate show Rotation Roundtable as a panelist alongside Complex’s Speedy Morman, “On the Radar’’ creator Gabe P, and journalist Rob Markman. With so many middle-aged men dominating rap media, it’s refreshing to see a young woman begin to make her mark in the industry.
23.Sway Calloway
Featured on: Sway in the Morning on Sirius XM
Known for: Lighthearted hip-hop interviews, lyrical-miracle freestyle sessions, his signature head wrap
Followers: 1M IG; 554K Twitter
Most memorable moments: Kanye interview, Sway freestyle segment (Five Fingers of Death)
As one-half of ’80s Bay Area duo Sway & King Tech, Sway was one of the first hip-hop artists (turned celebrity host). Some might remember him from his days as a co-host on KMEL’s nationally syndicated radio show The Wake Up Show, or when he later joined MTV as a correspondent in the early 2000s. For the last 10 years Sway has hosted a weekday morning show on Eminem’s Shade 45 channel on SiriusXM, where “How Sway?” instantly became a GOAT hip-hop quotable. Sway even pops up in an episode of The Boondocks, voicing an animated version of himself in “The Story Of Gangstalicious.” Sway’s steady voice has been such a staple in hip-hop coverage for so long that it’s become like comfort food for fans of a certain vintage. He may not be as prominent as he once was, but he’s still an active media personality with immeasurable contributions to the game.
22.Nardwuar
Featured on: NardwuarServiette
Known for: Ridiculously researched questions and encyclopedic music knowledge, that silly hat and interview-ending freeze frame
Followers: 1.1M IG; 2.7M YouTube
Most memorable moments: Cardi B interview, J. Cole interview, Tyler, the Creator interview
The Canadian journalist known as Nardwuar is the oldest person on this list at age 54, with a career that spans five decades. Although Nardwuar doesn’t cover rap acts exclusively, he’s managed to snag viral on-location interviews with icons like Jay-Z, J. Cole, Tyler, the Creator, and more. Many of his interviews, like with Future and Lil Uzi Vert, have spawned timeless memes because of the stunned reactions his questions elicit. A Nardwuar interview feels precious because you never know when they’re coming, and his questions are so personal they often shock the interviewee. Narduwar’s shtick might be a little limited, but it is inimitable.
21.Anthony Fantano
Featured on: TheNeedleDrop
Known for: In-depth YouTube reviews and snarky but informed commentary
Followers: 2.7M YouTube; 908K Twitter
Most memorable moments: Kendrick and Kanye album reviews, Drake DMs
There’s a persistent narrative that album reviews don’t matter as much as they used to, but the success of Anthony Fantano proves otherwise. From the comfort of his own home, he’s built a YouTube empire by fearlessly sharing his opinions on new music. His secret? He never holds back his true feelings, no matter how fierce the online backlash might be. Whether he’s revealing a shockingly high score on an album no one expected him to like (Lil Pump’s 2017 self-titled project) or he’s digging his heels into a low score on an otherwise beloved album (Kanye West’s My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy), he remains unmoved by the prevailing public opinion (and even if it might make Drake mad enough to send an angry late-night DM). In an era of Twitter groupthink, that’s refreshing; Fantano’s reviews don’t come across as the work of a deliberate troll, thanks to the level of detail and nuanced explanation in his critiques. When you add a series of interviews with the likes of Lil Nas X, Danny Brown, and Denzel Curry to his arsenal, Fantano is rising in hip-hop relevance.
20.Nadeska Alexis
Featured on: The Nadeska Show, R&B Now Radio, Rap Life Review
Known for: Textbook moderating skills, being name-dropped by 21 Savage on “Jimmy Cooks”
Followers: 93.5K IG; 64.3K Twitter
Most memorable moments: Rihanna Super Bowl interview, Brent Faiyaz interview
Nadeska Alexis is one of the most technically sound broadcasters in rap media right now, and her ability to craft an engaging interview is reflected in the increasingly impressive artists she’s had on her show—from Denzel Curry and Baby Keem to Lil Nas X and, most recently, Rihanna. As a product of Complex’s debate show Everyday Struggle, Alexis is adept at balancing several loud voices in a room while keeping conversations flowing and focused. Note how she comported herself during one of Everyday Struggle’s most iconic moments, when fellow host Joe Budden got into it with the Migos at the 2017 BET Awards. Alexis’ patience and intuitive questions translate to her own show, The Nadeska Show on Apple Music. She also brings an added layer of R&B-informed perspective to the Rap Life Review Apple Music debate show that she appears on alongside host Ebro Darden. Alexis is among a dying breed of traditional journalists in the rap media space making waves without relying on gimmicks.
19.Adam22
Featured on: No Jumper
Followers: 3M IG; 4.6M YouTube
Known for: Putting young rappers on early, creating controversy on- and off-air
Most memorable moments: XXXtentacion, King Von, Blueface and Chrisean
Adam Grandmaison went from an unknown BMX blogger to one of the most influential figures of the SoundCloud rap era, but his journey has been marked by scandal. From a content perspective, Adam22 has undoubtedly been instrumental in breaking some of the most infamous hip-hop acts of this generation, from XXXtentacion to Tekashi 6ix9ine, well before mainstream media was tuned in. However, the lion’s share of Adam22’s content is more about being problematic than promising. No Jumper isn’t picky, and Adam22 has always been eager to put a microphone in front of any aspiring rapper with a modicum of IG clout. This ambulance-chasing mentality has built Adam22’s empire and created plenty of viral moments, but also feels like a cynical exercise in feeding the lowest common denominator. That stench is exacerbated when you consider Adam22’s long list of misconduct allegations, questionable comments, and most recently, his very public falling out with several No Jumper hosts. With his recent heel turn toward edgelord commentary (as in the long “debate” show with neo-Nazi Richard Spencer) and aspiring porn stardom (no links here, buddy), Adam22 and No Jumper’s relevance in hip-hop media may be in permanent decline.
18.Big Boy
Featured on: BigBoyTV
Followers: 542K IG; 1M YouTube
Known For: Comedic timing and energetic interviews
Most memorable moments: Kevin Gates, Kanye West, Young Thug
Big Boy’s name has been synonymous with West Coast hip-hop for over 25 years, having started at L.A.’s Power 106 in 1997. (Check Vince Staples’ ‘FM!’ album for proof.) The veteran interviewer toes the line between funny and serious, and leans more conversational than confrontational. His loose, easygoing demeanor disarms his guests and puts them at ease, but his general style is very radio-centric—heavy on lighthearted banter and silly games—which means it hasn’t necessarily evolved with the times. Hip-hop media and coverage has historically been East Coast-centric, usually viewing everything through a New York lens. But Big Boy has long been the loudest voice representing the West Coast and garnering respect and attention from all artists, regardless of where they’re from.
17.Brandon “Jinx” Jenkins
Featured on: The RapCaviar Podcast
Known for: Knowledgeable hip-hop commentary and journalistic integrity
Followers: 67.4K IG; 64K Twitter
Most memorable moments: Quality Control Roundtable, Kendrick & Kobe interview, Ice Spice, Doechii, Rico Nasty interview
Jinx is a true student of hip-hop, and his deep knowledge of the genre is reflected in the interviews he conducts. After developing skills as a journalist, anchor, and executive producer at Complex from 2013 to 2018, Jinx brought his talents to Revolt (State of the Culture), The Ringer (No Skips), and Gimlet Media (Mogul) before partnering with Spotify to host The RapCaviar Podcast. The show isn’t very soundbite-y in the age of social-media cutdowns, but it’s almost deliberately so—Jinx’s strength is in creating thoughtful discussions, not viral reactions. In that sense, Jinx is almost a throwback to the days when rap media focused primarily on music.
16.Peter Rosenberg
Featured on: Ebro in the Morning (Hot 97); Juan Ep Is Life podcast
Known for: Being an unapologetic rap nerd and lover of “real hip-hop”
Followers: 319K IG; 352.6K Twitter
Most memorable moments: One of Jay-Z’s first-ever podcast interviews
Peter Rosenberg cares deeply about a lot of things, and, sometimes, it can be to his detriment. His undeniable passion for hip-hop and backpack bona fides makes his Juan Ep Is Life podcast interviews (alongside co-host Cipha Sounds) refreshingly earnest and unsalacious. (We should also note that the original Juan Epstein pod, which debuted in 2007, was among the very first hip-hop podcasts.) As a seasoned host (for Hot 97, ESPN New York, WWE, and formerly Complex, among others), he cares deeply about broadcasting fundamentals, demonstrating an unmatched ability to talk extemporaneously about nearly anything in an entertaining way. However, Rosenberg also cares deeply about how others perceive him, which has led to numerous trivial feuds with rappers and peers. And, despite an ongoing gig on New York’s most prominent rap station, Rosenberg can sometimes still evoke the folly of a try-hard. Still, when he shares his thoughts on rap, people rightfully pay attention.
15.Funkmaster Flex
Featured on: Hot 97 radio show
Known for: Bombastic rap commentary and even louder sound effects
Followers: 3M IG; 800K Twitter
Most memorable moments: Black Thought Freestyle, Jim Jones interview, “Otis” premiere
Funkmaster Flex is not an artist, but his iconic voice is worth millions. The veteran Hot 97 hip-hop radio host/DJ is an indelible media presence because of his adlibs, late-night rants, and ability to book legendary artists to spit freestyles for his show. Flex became a host on Hot 97 during the radio station’s inception in 1992, and to this day his bomb-drop sound effect is a measure of a song’s heat (hello, “Otis”), so much so that rappers reference it in their verses. Flex’s occasional late-night radio diatribes also continue to move the needle and become must-listen content just to hear who or what got him so tight. With his legacy already cemented, Flex is now like a cool uncle who pals around with the O.G.s but can still relate to the younger generation (witness his unforgettable session with Tyler, the Creator). Just beware the wrath when unc gets cranky.
14.Angela Yee
Featured on: The Breakfast Club (formerly), Angela Yee’s Lip Service, Way Up With Angela Yee
Known for: Being a prolific host who is also a great team player
Followers: 1.7M IG; 865.9K Twitter
Most memorable moments: Lip Service with King Von, Interview on The Breakfast Club with Birdman, Lip Service interview with Nick Cannon
Angela Yee was reporting hip-hop gossip and news long before her high-profile role as one of the three co-hosts on The Breakfast Club, where she was known for dishing out her Rumor Report and keeping Charlamagne and DJ Envy grounded. The East Flatbush native got her feet wet in 2005 as a co-host for The Cipha Sounds Effect show on Sirius XM’s Shade 45; since then, Yee has kept viewers engaged on both her syndicated radio show and her sex-talk podcast Lip Service. Recently embarking on the next chapter of her career, Yee officially ended her 12-year stint on The Breakfast Club to launch her solo radio show, Way Up With Angela Yee. The show debuted in February 2023 with Ray J as one of her guest hosts. Yee’s staying power is no fluke—she has superlative broadcast instincts, knowing how to pull compelling material out of her guests and when to let moments breathe.
13.Ebro
Featured on: Ebro in the Morning, The Ebro Show, Rap Life Radio, Rap Life Review, The Message
Known for: Being unafraid to share dissenting opinions or calling out artists if necessary
Followers: 796K IG; 297.7K Twitter
Most memorable moments: Kodak Black’s 2018 interview, 2018 beef with 6ix9ine
Ebro Darden has been in the media business behind the scenes since 1990, but most people recognize him for being the grumpy voice of reason for over a decade on Hot 97’s Ebro in the Morning. In 2015, Ebro gained more power when he was named the global editorial head of hip-hop and R&B for Apple Music, meaning he now holds decision-making roles at both a huge radio platform and a huge streamer—influence indeed. Ebro’s interviews tend to focus on music and the business side of the industry, and critics might say that he lords his gatekeeper status over artists and audiences alike. But every now and then, he’ll create a viral buzz, like when he called out Kodak Black about his rape allegations or caused stirs on Twitter for standing his ground with an unpopular opinion.
12.Angie Martinez
Featured on: Angie Martinez In Real Life, The Angie Martinez Show on New York’s Power 105.1
Followers: 1M Twitter; 1M IG
Known for: Exploring the vulnerable side of celebrities
Most memorable moments: Lauren London, Kim Kardashian, Ashanti
A longtime radio legend, Angie Martinez has maintained her relevance by not resting on her laurels. Her Angie Martinez IRL podcast, launched in July 2022, has quickly created a space where A-list guests (like Kim K. and Usher) can unwind and be more vulnerable than usual. Martinez might not have the headline-grabbing soundbites surrounding ongoing drama or outrageous moments some others on this list do, but that’s to her benefit; instead, she gets the biggest stars to leave their baggage at the door, and just be themselves. With over three decades of interviewing experience, Angie is one of the industry’s best at getting very famous people to open up.
11.Jason Lee
Featured on: Hollywood Unlocked With Jason Lee, The Jason Lee Show
Known for: Humorous and direct commentary on pop culture, insider info, and fun interviews with A-list celebrities
Followers: 3.3M IG (Hollywood Unlocked); 82.3K Twitter
Most memorable moments: Kanye West’s 2022 interview, first image of Rihanna and ASAP Rocky’s baby, Kelis interview
At the heart of many viral moments is media personality Jason Lee, who parlayed Love & Hip-Hop fame into a burgeoning media business. At first, he merely documented the biggest news in music and pop culture on his blog Hollywood Unlocked. But in the last three years, he’s helped create explosive moments. In 2022, Lee nabbed an exclusive interview with Kanye West, in which the controversial rapper discussed his relationship with ex-wife Kim Kardashian and his kids. (Lee would go on to briefly work for Ye as his “head of media and partnerships.”) As the host of The Jason Lee Show on Revolt TV, he has already booked huge interviews with Cardi B and Offset, Blueface and Chrisean Rock, and Blac Chyna. While Lee has demonstrated a strong booking power, his content often dips into the messy side of the business. And he doesn’t always get things right (remember when HU prematurely reported that the Queen was dead?). Nevertheless, Lee is an entertaining personality who captures a very real shift in the rap media landscape in which viewers rather learn about artists’ personal lives over their music. Lee offers light-hearted, entertaining conversations with high-profile celebs, but also doesn’t shy away from being direct, honest, and harsh about them.
10.Math Hoffa
Featured on: My Expert Opinion
Known for: Being a former battle rapper turned hip-hop correspondent who interviews people in a barber shop
Followers: 162K IG; 808K YouTube
Most memorable moments: Method Man interview, Fat Joe interview, 21 Savage
To be successful in battle rap, one needs a quick wit and the ability to respond to anything. Math Hoffa, who was a prominent battle rapper in the early 2000s, has transferred his mic skill to longform conversation and has once again proven difficult to beat. Since starting his My Expert Opinion show in 2019, Hoffa has organically built a following that has expanded his guest list from battle peers to hip-hop luminaries. His once niche content is now regularly going viral, as in this clip where Fat Joe talks about the people he put on. Unlike in LeBron’s The Shop, the conversations in the barbershop setting of My Expert Opinion feel organic and unfiltered—so much so that they can sometimes get heated and chaotic.
9.DJ Vlad
Featured on: VladTV
Followers: 946K IG; 5.4M YouTube
Known for: Controversial guests and outlandish soundbites
Most memorable moments: Conversations with Boosie going off the rails, 21 Savage “Issa Knife”; Soulja Boy details his home invasion
There are those who think DJ Vlad is a culture vulture and that his show is a mouse trap for rappers to incriminate themselves on camera. There are artists, most notably Rick Ross, who flat out don’t like him, which has led to at least one public encounter that allegedly went way left. But what can’t be denied is that VladTV is one of the most recognizable platforms in hip-hop media. While Vlad might not get the A-list talent and star power that some of his contemporaries do, he still manages to go viral due to his ability to extract information out of his guests. He created viral moments with 21 Savage and No Plug by getting them to discuss the death of the late Bankroll Fresh. Both DaBaby and Soulja Boy memorably went on VladTV to detail their respective home invasions. If you are active on rap social media, chances are that there is a VladTV clip on your timeline at least once a week. His style of interviewing—with a camera trained on the subject and the questions coming off-camera—and relentless volume of interview clips has been imitated by newer rap outlets like Say Cheese and Art of Dialogue. If you can’t beat him, guess you might have to join him.
8.Elliott Wilson
Featured on: Rap Radar Podcast, Thoro
Known for: Conversations with rap legends before, during, and after their primes
Followers: 33.8K IG; 291K Twitter
Most memorable moments: Jay-Z, entire Drake
Elliott Wilson is one of the architects of rap media at large, and the rare personality who has successfully navigated the path from print to multimedia. The veteran journalist has been a relevant and poignant voice in music for over two decades now, from co-creating the influential rap zine Ego Trip at the turn of the 21st century to growing XXL Magazine to mammoth heights as its editor-in-chief in the early aughts. He did all of this before creating his own platform with the Rap Radar podcast, alongside his co-host Brian “B. Dot” Miller. Wilson also sits as the chief content officer for Tidal since 2019, which allows him to keep his hand on the pulse of the current hip-hop landscape (and within arm’s reach of Hov). Of the many things that Wilson has accomplished, Rap Radar stands as his new crown jewel. The podcast holds weight to the current generation of rap lovers because Wilson and B. Dot are able to land guests who are relevant to both older and younger hip-hop fans. Not many can say they’ve interviewed B.I.G., Nas, Jay-Z, and Drake. Wilson has managed to stay relevant for this long because he’s a true journalist and student of the game—he asks intuitive questions that are backed by integrity rather than seeking the next viral moment.
7.Caresha
Featured on: Caresha Please
Known for: “Bringing the smoke” to musical and celebrity guests on her Revolt TV show
Followers: 6.5M IG
Most memorable moments: Diddy, G Herbo
Yung Miami is a relatively new media personality, but her impact is already undeniable. The formula for her show Caresha Please is simple but bulletproof: invite a celebrity (usually a rapper or influencer) with a lot of baggage and grill them for answers to all of the questions you aren’t really supposed to ask, but you know everyone is wondering. On her inaugural episode with Diddy, she asked about the status of their relationship. With G Herbo, she questioned him about cheating allegations in his past relationship with Ari Fletcher. Sure, her show is built on salaciousness and gossip, but it’s her prowess for interrogating in a charming and sexy way that makes it so irresistible.
6.Kai Cenat
Featured on: KaiCenat on Twitch
Known for: High-energy content and ridiculous skits
Followers: 3.5M YouTube; 4.8M Twitch
Most memorable moments: Kai FaceTimes Drake, Kai & Lil Baby, Kai & G Herbo pregnancy simulator
Twitch is the breeding ground for the next generation of influencers and cultural tastemakers, and Kai Cenat is the platform’s young king. The 21-year-old streamer started his career on YouTube, making his first video in 2018 and originally focusing on pranks, reactions, and challenge videos. Cenat reached new heights once he started streaming on Twitch in 2021. Thanks to his energetic personality, endearing sense of humor, and the ability to engage with his guests and audience, Cenat quickly climbed the ranks of Twitch and now sits as the most-subscribed streamer on the platform. Cenat has become a fixture in rap media because, quite simply, rappers enjoy hanging out with him. Some of his most viral moments came alongside the high-profile guests he’s been able to land on his streams—from playing NBA2K with 21 Savage (and making a bet with Drake mid-game) to having G Herbo try out a pregnancy simulator, Cenat lets rappers engage with him in a different way than they would with more traditional media. Cenat’s ascension is a reflection of where the rap media landscape might be headed in the next few years.
5.N.O.R.E.
Featured on: Drink Champs
Known for: Drinking, smoking, and laughing with hip-hop legends
Followers: 1.5M IG; 558K Twitter
Most memorable moments: Kanye West’s problematic interview; Irv Gotti speaks on Ashanti, ASAP Rocky
N.O.R.E. first grabbed our attention as a chart-topping MC in 1998; since pivoting to a creator and personality in 2017, his show Drink Champs (with co-host DJ EFN) has become the premier interview platform for hip-hop legends like Kanye West and 50 Cent to spill some tea (while, as the name of the show implies, sipping on their alcohol of choice). Having a rich and extensive history with the host allows many of N.O.R.E.’s guests to get comfortable—sometimes too comfortable, as was the case with Kanye. After facing backlash for airing Ye’s comments about Jewish people and George Floyd, N.O.R.E. took Ye’s Drink Champs interview down; it was a moment that illuminated how unfiltered (and inebriated) candor can sometimes go too far. N.O.R.E., as he will often say, is not a professional journalist or interviewer—his tendency to interrupt and talk over guests can get annoying, and he’ll often abandon moments that beg for a follow-up or pushback. Still, there’s rarely a sense he’s prying with malicious intent, and segments like his rapid-fire “QuickTime With Slime” gives his guests space to get spicy without seeming mean-spirited. When a big episode of Drink Champs drops, it’s always appointment viewing.
4.Gillie and Wallo
Featured on: Million Dollaz Worth of Game
Followers: Gillie: 3.1M IG; Wallo: 2.1M IG; 1.25M YouTube
Known for: Comedic banter and honest conversations
Most memorable moments: Young Thug, Kevin Gates
There aren’t many personalities in hip-hop who offer the blend of comedic value and introspection that Gillie and Wallo do. With their Million Dollaz Worth of Game podcast, which launched in April 2019, the duo alternate between the roles of comedians, interviewers, and elder statesmen delivering wisdom—all in the same episode. Past interviews with King Von, Young Thug, and Pooh Shiesty feel even more relevant today due to the unfortunate events that followed (King Von was murdered in 2020, while Pooh Shiesty and Young Thug are currently incarcerated). In all of these interviews, Gillie and Wallo provide life lessons and wisdom to their guests without coming off as preachy. Gillie can relate to artists because of his past as a rapper, while Wallo acts as a voice of reason, using his 20 years spent in prison to offer life guidance. This balance allows them to connect with guests and make them comfortable, which oftentimes leads to must-see interview moments (and memorable musical intros). The rapid ascension of Million Dollaz Worth of Game over the past four years has been in large part due to the way the duo seems to genuinely care about the subjects they interview. Their relatable style of conversation and commentary is what has made them an important platform in today’s hip-hop media landscape.
3.Charlamagne Tha God
Featured on: The Breakfast Club, Hell of A Week with Charlamagne tha God, Brilliant Idiots
Known for: Sensational commentary, asking rude questions, and his “Donkey of the Day” segment
Followers: 5.32M YouTube (TBC); 2.1M Twitter
Most memorable moments: Soulja Boy, Mo’Nique, Travis Scott’s post-Astroworld interview
Since 2010, The Breakfast Club has helped ordinary people make it through the humdrum of the work week, and the syndicated morning show’s success can mostly be attributed to one host: Charlamagne Tha God. For the bulk of its run, Charlamagne shared hosting duties with DJ Envy and the recently departed Angela Yee, but Charlamagne immediately established himself as the show’s boundary-pushing wildcard. Throughout his tenure, he’s been the puppetmaster of countless viral moments. Would the Birdman interview be as explosive if Charlamagne wasn’t in the room? And he never minces words in his infamous “Donkey of the Day” segment, where he unleashes incendiary comments about public figures (previous title holders include Joe Biden and Kanye West). We would be remiss not to acknowledge that sometimes Charlamagne gets it wrong. His sometimes inappropriate commentary toward guests (particularly women) has gotten him in trouble. However, since becoming a mental health advocate, Charlamagne has slightly toned down his rhetoric without losing his bite or influence. You can always count on him to avoid the usual softball questions in interviews and to push the envelope in pursuit of compelling content—now on both Comedy Central and BET.
2.DJ Akademiks
Featured on: Off the Record With DJ Akademiks
Known for: Timely rap news, Twitch rants, controversy, and beefs
Followers: 5.2M IG; 2.8M YouTube
Most memorable moments: Clubhouse debates with NBA YoungBoy and 21 Savage, late-night Henny-fueled Twitch sessions
If you’re even vaguely interested in rap and spend any amount of time on Instagram, Twitter, Twitch, or YouTube these days, you’ll see DJ Akademiks’ name or face at least a few times a day, whether you like it or not. He’s an extremely polarizing figure who has an army of skeptics (many of whom bring up valid points of concern about the ethics behind his content and person). Still, he’s relentless, and his high-volume strategy reaches a massive audience. With dozens of new posts a day, his Instagram and Twitter feeds have become a go-to source for rap news, and his marathon Twitch streams (often going for over four hours at a time) are viewed by legions of die-hard followers. He has an innate ability to talk (and rant) about rap for hours in a row without letting up, and each stream invariably produces a handful of viral moments, whether an A-list rapper calls in without notice or he falls asleep during a late-night Drake album listening session. Naturally, he’s cashed in on the buzz with some major deals. Off the Record with DJ Akademiks, his exclusive show with Spotify, routinely tops the podcast charts, attracting guests like 21 Savage, NBA YoungBoy, and Rod Wave. Whether he’s breaking insider industry information on a late-night stream, inserting himself into a rap beef, or posting about breaking news before anyone else, he’s omnipresent. There are legitimate concerns to be had about the real-world consequences of his more sensationalistic content, including his coverage of the violence in Chicago’s rap scene and the Tory Lanez trial. On a list assessing the power and influence of hip-hop media personalities right now, however, Akademiks is undeniably near the top. For better or for worse—he is one of the most relevant (and controversial) voices in hip-hop media right now.
1.Joe Budden
Featured on: The Joe Budden Podcast
Known for: Pioneering the ex-rapper-to-pundit career path; being the most abrasive commentator in hip-hop
Followers: 1.7M IG; 959K Twitter
Most memorable moments: The standoff with Migos at the 2017 BET Awards
For more on the No. 1 entry in our hip-hop media ranking, please read our interview with Joe Budden.