Beatmaking is an art form that has been around since the early days of hip hop. It involves taking samples, loops, and other musical elements and arranging them in a way that creates a unique and compelling sound. Over the years, there have been many great beatmakers who have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in this field.
So, who do we think are the best beatmakers of all time ? Read on and you shall find out !
Our Picks for the Best Beatmakers of All Time
After much thought and hard choices, we have come up with a TOP 10 of our best beatmakers of all time. These ten beatmakers represent the cream of the crop when it comes to making hip-hop beats. Let’s take a closer look at each of them :
1. DJ Premier
DJ Premier is a legendary hip hop producer and DJ hailing from the East Coast. He rose to prominence in the 90s as one half of the rap duo Gang Starr alongside MC Guru, producing their iconic albums such as “Step in the Arena” and “Hard to Earn“.
However, his work as a hip-hop producer extends far beyond Gang Starr, having crafted some of the most notable East Coast hip hop songs in history, including Nas‘ “NY State of Mind“, Big Daddy Kane‘s “Set It Off“, and Jay-Z‘s “D’Evils“. He also worked with Jeru the Damaja on his classic album “The Sun Rises in the East“.
DJ Premier is often credited as one of the greatest hip-hop beatmakers of all time, known for his signature gritty beats and use of sampling.
And no need to just take our word for it (though you really should !). Here’s a few of his beats if you want to decide for yourself :
2. Dr. Dre
Dr. Dre is one of the most influential figures in the world of rap and hip-hop production. He’s a talented DJ and rapper who’s widely known for being a member of the gangsta rap group N.W.A. With this legendary group, Dre helped pioneer the gangsta rap sound, which fused aggressive lyrics with hard-hitting beats.
Although he’s best known as a performer, Dre has also produced music for some of the biggest names in the industry, including Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, and 50 Cent. Today, Dre is one of the most respected and widely recognized musicians in the world, and his contributions to rap and hip-hop have left a lasting impact on the genre.
Whether you’re a fan of his early work with N.W.A or his more recent collaborations with today’s biggest stars, it’s clear that Dre has had a profound impact on music. He is therefore regarded as one of the absolute greatest beatmakers.
And here’s a playlist of some of his finest beats for you to enjoy :
3. J Dilla
J Dilla, also known as Jay Dee, was a producer and rapper known for his unique sound that blended soulful samples with hard-hitting drums. He began his career as a member of the group Slum Village before going on to produce for notable acts like A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, and Busta Rhymes.
J Dilla’s influence on hip-hop is undeniable, with many considering him to be one of the best producers of all time. His production style was innovative, and he had a way of creating beats that were both intricate and soulful. His work with rappers helped to shape the sound of rap in the 90s and early 2000s, and his legacy continues to inspire artists today. J Dilla’s untimely death in 2006 only further cemented his status as a legend in hip-hop music.
On that note, let’s enjoy some of his musical gems :
4. RZA
RZA is a legendary rapper, producer, and member of the influential hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan. Known for his sharp lyricism and gritty production style, he helped shape some of the best rap music of the 90s and beyond.
Beyond his work with Wu-Tang, RZA has also established himself as one of the most innovative and influential hip-hop producers of all time. He has worked with a wide range of artists and genres, leaving his mark on everything from film scores to pop music.
Despite his incredible success, RZA remains humble and dedicated to his craft, making him not only a great producer but also a model for other aspiring hip-hop artists. Overall, he is recognized as one of the greatest beatmakers of all time and a true icon in the world of rap. You will most likely recognize many of his beats from this playlist :
5. Madlib
Madlib is a producer and rapper from California who has been active since the mid-90s. He is known for his eclectic style, which incorporates elements of jazz, funk, and world music into his beats. Madlib is also known for his prolific output, having released dozens of albums and mixtapes over the years. His unique sound and approach to beatmaking have made him a favorite among fans and critics alike.
6. Pete Rock
Pete Rock is a producer and rapper from New York who got his start in the late 80s. He is known for his use of jazz and soul samples, as well as his ability to create intricate drum patterns that still feel smooth and effortless. Pete Rock has worked with some of the biggest names in hip hop, including Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, and Public Enemy. His influence can be heard in the work of many modern producers, and he is often cited as one of the greatest beatmakers of all time.
7. The Alchemist
The Alchemist is a renowned American record producer, rapper, and DJ. He has collaborated with many famous rappers in the industry such as Eminem, Rakim, and Mobb Deep. The Alchemist’s style of music is mostly categorized as hip-hop or rap, showcasing his excellent production techniques and remarkable lyrical prowess. He is widely regarded for his ability to blend together unconventional genres to create a unique sound that distinguishes him from other producers. Additionally, The Alchemist’s works are known for their deep spiritual and philosophical undertones, which further adds to their allure. Overall, his exceptional abilities as an alchemist of music have made him a prominent figure in the world of rap and hip hop, and his influence can be felt throughout the industry.
8. Rick Rubin
Rick Rubin is an American record producer, known for his work with numerous prominent musicians and bands, including Jay-Z, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Beastie Boys. He has won eight Grammy awards for his production work, making him one of the most successful and respected names in the music industry. Rubin’s unique approach to production has made him particularly influential in the hip-hop world, where he has worked with many of the top rappers in the industry. In 2021, Rubin was once again recognized for his contributions to the world of music, with many predicting that he will continue to produce hit records for years to come. Overall, Rick Rubin’s contributions to the music industry have had a major impact on the sound of popular music over the last few decades.
9. Timbaland
Timbaland is a producer and rapper from Virginia who got his start in the early 90s. He is known for his use of unconventional sounds and rhythms, as well as his ability to create catchy hooks and melodies. Timbaland has worked with some of the biggest names in pop and hip hop, including Justin Timberlake, Missy Elliott, and Jay-Z. His unique sound and approach to beatmaking have made him one of the most successful and influential producers of all time.
10. Kanye West
Kanye West is one of the most prominent rappers and producers of all time. He has created some of the best songs and albums in rap history. Kanye’s influence on the rap scene is undeniable, having collaborated with the likes of Jay-Z and other major figures in the industry. His music is known for its innovative and experimental sound, blending elements of different genres to create a completely unique style. Aside from being one of the best producers in the industry, Kanye is also known for his outspoken and often controversial statements on social and political issues, creating a polarizing figure in the media. Regardless of personal opinions though, it’s hard to deny the immense impact that Kanye West has had on the rap world, making him a true legend in the game.
Best Beatmakers of All Times : Honorable Mentions
When it comes to the best producers of all time, there are a few honorable mentions that cannot go unnoticed.
A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul, for example, are two hip-hop groups who were led by some of the most influential producers of all time. Q-Tip, one of the members of A Tribe Called Quest, has been called an influential producer in the game by many in the industry. Similarly, Prince Paul, the producer for De La Soul, has been credited with helping to shape the sound of the Golden Age of hip-hop.
Other notable producers who have left their mark on the genre include DJ Quik, known for his ability to blend elements of funk, soul, and hip hop in his productions. DJ Shadow, CL Smooth, 9th Wonder, Daz Dillinger Logic and Nujabes are also names worth mentioning. When it comes to the best of the best, these producers and many others have truly made their mark on the industry.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. When it comes to beatmaking, these are the names that stand out from the crowd. Of course, there are many other talented producers out there who deserve recognition (in fact, feel free to drop a few names you think we’ve overlooked, in the comment section)… The aforemetioned beatmakers are just the ones that have left the greatest impression on us. We hope you’ve enjoyed this journey through beatmaking history, and maybe even discovered a new beatmaker or two to add to your playlist.
