I am making a conservative list to start with and will re-arrange as everyone undoubtedly makes arguments for and against. In no particular order:
Nas, Jay Z, Biggie, Kool G Rap, Rakim
Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Pharaoe Monch, Common, Kanye
2Pac, Ice Cube, Easy E.
That is as good of a breakdown as...