By Bayo Olupohunda,Muhunya Muhonji
Copyright legit
Baltimore rappers are steadily making their mark on the music industry with distinct sounds and powerful storytelling. Artists like YGG Tay, Bandhunta Izzy, and Tate Kobang have carried the city’s raw energy to national stages. From street anthems to viral hits, Charm City continues to push new voices onto the charts.
Key takeaways
From King Los’s lyrical street narratives to Deetranada’s fierce delivery, Baltimore rap blends raw storytelling with innovative beats that echo the city’s resilience.Chrisean Rock broke into the Billboard Hot 100 and TikTok charts, Shordie Shordie scored double-platinum with Bitchuary, and King Los gained national recognition through acclaimed collaborations and streaming success.From battle rappers like King Los to club anthem creators like Rye Rye, Baltimore’s hip-hop scene blends underground legends with rising stars shaping its future.
Baltimore rappers who put Charm City on the map
This compilation of Baltimore rappers is not conclusive and does not rank artists in any particular order. The list highlights talented rappers based on available information from music releases, public recognition, and reliable sources, including Ranker, Spotify, and OkayPlayer.
1. Bandhunta Izzy
Full name: Israel Jordan JamesDate of birth: 30 December 1996Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Rapper, singer, songwriter
Bandhunta Izzy stands out for his melodic, drill-inspired flow that earned him national attention. Signed to Republic Records, he gained co-signs from heavyweights like Meek Mill and built a reputation for raw storytelling. Songs like In Love Wit Da Trap and his How to Rob (Remix) highlight his versatility and authenticity.
2. Deetranada
Full name: Diamond BarmerDate of birth: 25 June 2001Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Rapper, singer
Deetranada became one of Baltimore’s youngest rap exports when she competed on Jermaine Dupri’s TV show The Rap Game. Her fiery lyrical delivery and fearless personality set her apart as a teen rap prodigy. Tracks like Attitude Adjuster and Box showed her ability to bring Baltimore’s grit into mainstream conversations.
3. King Los
Full name: Carlos ColemanDate of birth: 23 March 1982Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Rapper, songwriter, producer
King Los, part of the wave of Baltimore rappers 2000s, is often hailed as one of the greatest freestyle rappers alive, a title that has cemented his place in hip-hop history. After signing with Bad Boy and RCA, he collaborated with artists such as Diddy, Wiz Khalifa, and Logic.
His work on songs like War and Ghetto Boy, along with his album God, Money, War, showcased his lyrical brilliance and raised Baltimore’s profile.
4. President Davo
Full name: David BoykinDate of birth: August 11, 1995Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Rapper, songwriter
President Davo built his reputation through viral freestyles and hard-hitting street tracks that resonated with Baltimore youth. Without major label backing, he managed to rack up millions of YouTube views, proving his grassroots impact. Songs like Gang Gang and Lambo Dreamin’ reflect his relentless grind and raw authenticity.
5. Chrisean Rock
Full name: Chrisean Eugenia MaloneDate of birth: 14 March 2000Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Rapper, reality TV personality
Among the most talked-about Baltimore rappers in 2025, Chrisean Rock transitioned from reality TV fame to rap, combining her bold Baltimore personality with music that resonates online. Known for her turbulent yet highly publicised career, Chrisean Rock gained traction under Blueface’s label. Tracks like Lonely and Word to My Brother highlight her ability to turn raw emotion into viral hits.
6. Nino Paid
Full name: Jacquan AndrewsDate of birth: 14 August 2001Place of birth: Prince George’s County, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Rapper
Nino Paid has carved out a lane in Baltimore’s underground scene with unfiltered, street-driven storytelling. His mixtapes helped him grow a loyal fanbase who connect with his real-life narratives. Hits like Paid in Full and Real Talk serve as powerful reflections of Baltimore’s raw reality.
7. Yung Manny
Full name: Emmanuel OkanlawonDate of birth: 3 October 2003Place of birth: Bowie, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Rapper
Yung Manny represents Baltimore’s new wave, blending playful energy with trap-infused beats. His viral songs spread quickly on TikTok and YouTube, earning him recognition beyond the DMV. With tracks like Clap For ‘Em and Moana featuring YK Osiris, he positioned himself as one of the city’s rising stars, even securing a deal with Epic Records.
Full name: Ricardo Valdez Valentine, Jr.Date of birth: 24 June 1992Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Singer, songwriter, rapper
Though often associated with Atlanta, 6lack’s Baltimore roots link him to the city’s creative legacy. He built his brand by merging hip-hop with smooth R&B, earning Grammy nominations and platinum plaques. With songs like PRBLMS, Ex Calling, and Switch, he proved that Baltimore-born talent could reach global recognition.
9. Height Keech
Full name: Dan KeechDate of birth: 22 September 1981Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Rapper, producer, podcaster
Height Keech is known in the underground scene for his witty, experimental approach to rap. His music thrives on storytelling and pushing hip-hop’s boundaries while still paying homage to Baltimore’s culture. His songs, such as Mind Moves the Mountain and Baltimore Highlands, have helped him develop a cult following that champions authenticity.
10. Rye Rye
Full name: Ryeisha BerrainDate of birth: 1991Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Rapper, dancer
Rye Rye made history as the first artist signed to M.I.A.’s N.E.E.T./Interscope label, bringing Baltimore’s club sound to international audiences. She fused dance, rap, and electronic beats to create an infectious style that stood out. Hits like Shake It to the Ground and Boom Boom made her one of the city’s most recognisable exports.
Full name: Gary James WatsonDate of birth: May 11, 1972Place of birth: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, U.S.Profession: Rapper, singer, songwriter, poet
Sivion, with ties to Baltimore, is recognised for his work in Christian hip-hop as part of the collective Deepspace5. His conscious lyrics and jazzy beats offered a refreshing angle within the genre. Some of his top hits, like Ladies and Gentlemen and Everything is Everything earned him respect in faith-based and underground circles alike.
12. Felicia Pearson
Full name: Felicia PearsonDate of birth: 18 May 1980Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Actress, author, rapper
Best known as “Snoop from The Wire”, Felicia Pearson also ventured into rap to tell her story in her own voice. Her music reflects her life growing up in Baltimore, blending acting fame with street authenticity. Tracks like It’s a Rude World reinforced her image as a true representative of Baltimore grit.
13. Rome Cee
Full name: Jerome CarringtonDate of birth: 25 December 1982Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Rapper, songwriter
Rome Cee is a respected Baltimore rapper known for his sharp lyricism and thought-provoking storytelling. Emerging from the city’s underground scene, he gained recognition with projects like So Much More, Street Scholar, Tunnel Vision, and The Extra Mile.
Full name: Yitz (or Yitzchak) JordanDate of birth: 1978 (exact date not listed)Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Rapper
Y-Love made waves as the first openly gay Orthodox Jewish rapper with Baltimore roots. His unique cultural background gave him an unmatched perspective in hip-hop. Tracks such as This Is Babylon and Mehadrin Hip Hop made him a groundbreaking figure worldwide.
15. Maimouna Youssef (Mumu Fresh)
Full name: Maimouna YoussefDate of birth: March 12, 1985Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.Profession: Singer, songwriter, rapper
Maimouna Youssef, also known as Mumu Fresh, represents Baltimore on a global stage with her soulful blend of hip-hop, jazz, and R&B. A Grammy-nominated artist, she has collaborated with The Roots, Common, and Nas. Songs like Say My Name and Shine Your Light showcase her powerful voice and storytelling ability.
16. Blaqstarr
Full name: Charles SmithDate of birth: 30 September 1985Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, United StatesProfession: Rapper, DJ
Blaqstarr is a pioneer of Baltimore club music who also ventured into rap and production. His partnership with M.I.A. and signing to Interscope helped spread Baltimore’s club influence worldwide. With tracks like Supastarr and Hands Up Thumbs Down, he remains a central figure in the city’s musical identity.
Full name: Duane Stacy BridgefordDate of birth: 1975Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, United StatesProfession: Rapper, songwriter
NOE linked Baltimore directly to New York’s Dipset movement by working closely with Jim Jones and ByrdGang. His gritty delivery earned him respect among East Coast rap fans. Songs such as We City Boyz and Meet Me in the Tunnel established him as a bridge between Baltimore and Harlem.
18. K.A.A.N.
Full name: Brandon PerryDate of birth: 12 January 1991Place of birth: Howard County, Maryland, United StatesProfession: Rapper, singer
K.A.A.N. (Knowledge Above All Nonsense) is one of Baltimore’s most prolific underground lyricists, known for rapid-fire delivery. With over 40 projects, he built a massive international following without major label support. Tracks like Mary Jane and Still (But I Do) highlight his versatility and relentless work ethic.
19. Tate Kobang
Full name: Joshua Dai’Quan GoodsDate of birth: 28 April 1992Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, United StatesProfession: Rapper, songwriter, record producer
Tate Kobang is a talented singer and rapper who exploded onto the scene with his viral hit Bank Rolls, which paid homage to Baltimore classic Tim Trees’ track. Signing with 300 Entertainment, he helped put Baltimore’s club-rap style on a national platform. Other songs like Northside Finest solidified his reputation as a rising star.
Full name: Corbin Beckner SmidzikDate of birth: 20 February 1998Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, United StatesProfession: rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer
Corbin, while more closely tied to Minnesota, has underground connections to Baltimore’s alternative rap scene. Known for his moody and emotional style, he built a cult following online. Songs like Without U and Worn resonated with fans of emo rap and internet-driven music culture.
21. Lloyd Banks
Full name: Christopher Charles LloydDate of birth: 30 April 1982Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, United StatesProfession: Rapper, songwriter
Though born in New York, Lloyd Banks has Baltimore family roots that tie him to the city’s story. As a member of G-Unit, he achieved Grammy nominations and platinum sales, making him a household name. Tracks like On Fire and Beamer, Benz, or Bentley remain iconic.
22. Rakeem Miles
Full name: Rakeem Tyree MilesDate of birth: 12 March 1993Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, United StatesProfession: Rapper, singer, songwriter, artist, record producer
Rakeem Miles is an experimental Baltimore artist blending hip-hop with futuristic sounds and visuals. His collaborations with Doja Cat and Ab-Soul showcase his versatility and willingness to innovate. Songs like All I Wanna Do and That’s My Girl reveal his playful yet meaningful artistry.
Full name: Quinn DupreeDate of birth: 15 December 2004Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, United StatesProfession: Singer, songwriter, rapper, record producer, DJ
Quinn is one of the best young rappers from Baltimore making waves online, particularly through SoundCloud. She experiments with emo rap aesthetics, drawing attention from underground fans. Songs like Steady and Never Enough display her raw and evolving talent.
Full name: SagatDate of birth: 4 January 1970Place of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, United StatesProfession: Rapper, record producer
Sagat gave Baltimore one of its earliest international hits with the 1990s classic Funk Dat. His fusion of house and rap brought the city’s underground club scene to a wider audience. The track remains a cultural touchstone that connects Baltimore’s past to its lasting influence.
25. Labtekwon
Full name: Omar AkbarDate of birth: UnknownPlace of birth: Baltimore, Maryland, United StatesProfession: Rapper, songwriter
Labtekwon is a respected Baltimore rapper known for his intellectual lyricism and deep connection to hip-hop’s roots. With successful albums such as Rise of Sirius, Sun of Sekhmet, and Song of the Sovereign, he blends social commentary, Afrocentric themes, and experimental sounds.
Who is the most popular Baltimore rapper?
King Los is often considered the most popular Baltimore rapper due to his legendary freestyles, national record deals, and collaborations. Shordie Shordie and Tate Kobang also rank high for mainstream recognition.
Was 2Pac from Baltimore?
Tupac Shakur lived in Baltimore during his teenage years and attended the Baltimore School for the Arts. While he was born in New York and later associated with California, his time in Baltimore shaped his artistry.
What is Baltimore rap called?
Baltimore rap is often associated with Baltimore club music, a fast-paced, dance-driven style that combines hip-hop and electronic beats. However, the city also produces street rap, lyrical hip-hop, and experimental sounds, making it a diverse musical scene.
Baltimore rappers continue to push their city’s sound onto the national stage. From gritty street anthems to club-inspired hits, their music reflects both struggle and resilience. As more artists rise, Charm City’s presence on the charts is only set to grow.
Legit.ng recently highlighted some of the top Memphis rappers making waves in the music industry. Iconic names like Three 6 Mafia, Moneybagg Yo, and GloRilla have transformed Southern hip-hop with their raw energy and distinctive sound.
Known for fusing hard-hitting beats with authentic street storytelling, Memphis rappers continue to captivate audiences around the world. From Grammy-winning legends to viral chart-toppers, the city’s rap scene remains a powerhouse of talent. Dive into this article to explore some of the most influential rap artists from Memphis.
Proofreading by Kola Muhammed, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
