Hip-Hop Power Rankings: The Top 5

Lil Wayne

Music: At an all time low in this category. “Carter IV” was lazy and uninspired, although he gained the undying loyalty of teenage girls worldwide, which is actually a pretty powerful demographic to have behind you. Let’s not forget, over one million people bought “Carter IV” in the first week. Those are superstar numbers.

Trendsetting: He may have not started the skinny jeans and skateboarding thing, but I guarantee you there are a lot of kids practicing their ollies as we speak that wouldn’t have otherwise dreamed of picking up a board. And lord knows his name is on the lips of every hip-hop fan in the world - even if it’s only to complain. 

Influence: Wayne doesn’t get nearly enough credit as a CEO. If this was a Hip-Hop Power Ranking Under 25 both Drake and Nicki Minaj would be at the very top. No one, not Kanye, not Jay, not Eminem, has been that successful with their draft picks.