45. Biz Markie
The Clown Prince of hip-hop pumped fun and flavor into the art with his goofy, careening music style.
Best Album: Goin' Off 
44. Guru
As the rapping half of Gang Starr (DJ Premier helmed the duo's production department), Guru played a major role in pumping substance and positivity into the game. Extra credit goes to Baldhead Slick for being one of the premier jazz-rappers.
Best Album: Daily Operation
43. Beanie Sigel
With a distinctive delivery and a well-tested battle acumen, Beans managed to create a unique sound that has critics wondering if there's a special formula in the waters of Philadelphia.
Best Album: The Truth
42. DMX
Gruff, Rugged and Raw...call him GRR. Dark Man X imbued his career with the ever peculiar mix of spirituality and sentimentality.
Best Album: It's Dark & Hell Is Hot
41. Snoop Dogg
Not too many MCs have been able to create mainstream hits while still keeping it "G". Apart from possessing a smooth, flavor-filled flow, Snoop has also supplied some of the most captivating hooks hip-hop has ever witnessed.
Best Album: Doggystyle
