MTV has compiled their list of the top ten, “Hottest MC’s in the Game,” and they’re releasing each name one by one.
The criteria for the top 10 list are: lyrics, flow, impact, buzz, sales and intangibles. MTV has put together an expert panel of their most educated hip hop critics to rate the current talent and success of today’s top hip hop artists.
Number 10 on the list is Wu-tang Clan member Raekwon (aka Raekwon the chef). While Raekwon’s public exposure has never been particularly high, he is one of the most talented artists in the music industry. His album Only Built 4 Cuban Linx.. Part II, released September 8, 2009, was critically acclaimed by all major music and hip hop outlets; debuting at number four on the Billboard 200. This was his fourth solo album along with the numerous Wu Tang albums to which he was an integral asset. Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… Part II reaches back to those Wu tang roots with raw hip hop verses and classic beats (produced by hip-hop giants RZA, Dr Dre, The Alchemist and Eric Sermon and many others).

Number 9 on the list was hip-hop heavyweight 50 cent. While he hasn’t released an official album since Curtis in 2007, 50 released one of the most impressive mix-tapes of the year, War Angel. The mix-tape showed fans that 50 is still first and foremost dedicated to his musical craft. Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson is in the process right now of completing his fourth studio album, “Before I Self Destruct”. The album was scheduled to be released in late 2008, but instead was re-worked and improved for the new release date of November 17. Like Raekwon, Jackson has the top producers in the music industry working on his album including Dr Dre, Timbaland and Eminem, to name a few.If the recently released track Flight 187 is any indicator of the style of this new album, Jackson’s fans will be pleased. The song has a classic 50 cent flow with a relaxed yet cold-blooded tone.

A few of the MTV panellists disagreed with 50 cent’s spot in the top 10, citing his lack of recent albums and inactivity in the industry this year. Other’s were quick to defend his mix-tapes, current hype of his upcoming album defended by over one million Youtube hits on the Flight 187 music video, and intangibles like numerous public appearances and fan recognition.

After 50 cent and Raekwon’s ranking, the anticipation is building as to who will complete the top 10 list. The video of the panel discussion includes glimpses of Jay-Z, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, TI and most notably for Canadians, rapper/singer Aubrey ‘Drake’ Graham. Tune in to MTV October 4th at 10 p.m. for the “Hottest MC’s in the Game” top five.

Related posts:

1. 50 Cent Fighting with Interscope Records about Next Release
2. 50 Cent Confirms Eminem Album
3. 50 Cent to Perform at Grammys

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