In a recent episode of the NFR Podcast, hosts Luca and Anthony took a deep dive into Complex’s highly debated list of the Best Rapper Alive for each year from 1979 to 2024. The duo shared candid opinions on Complex’s picks, focusing on artistry, influence, and cultural impact. While they agreed with some choices, others sparked heated debates, especially regarding recent selections.
Breaking Down Recent Years (2008–2024)
2024 – Kendrick Lamar
Luca and Anthony unanimously agreed that Kendrick Lamar deserved the 2024 title, citing his remarkable output, including a stellar album, memorable live performances, and top-tier features.
2023 – J. Cole
Unlike Complex, the hosts didn’t feel J. Cole should have been crowned for 2023. Instead, they proposed Travis Scott or Danny Brown, noting both artists delivered stronger projects that year.
2022 – 21 Savage
Complex’s choice of 21 Savage didn’t sit well with the NFR hosts. They argued that JID or Denzel Curry, who released critically acclaimed albums, would have been more deserving.
2021 – Tyler, The Creator
Luca and Anthony agreed with Tyler’s selection, highlighting Call Me If You Get Lost as a defining project. However, they also gave honorable mentions to Little Simz and J. Cole, who both had strong years.
2020 – Lil Baby
The duo disagreed with Complex’s choice of Lil Baby for 2020, suggesting either Boldy James or Freddie Gibbs, both of whom delivered high-quality projects that year.
2019 – DaBaby
Complex’s pick of DaBaby for 2019 didn’t sit well with the podcast hosts. They argued that either Freddie Gibbs, for Bandana, or Little Simz would have been better choices.
2018 – Pusha T
The NFR hosts endorsed Complex’s selection of Pusha T for 2018, citing the impact of Daytona and his scathing diss track “The Story of Adidon.”
2017 – Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar was the clear standout for 2017, according to Luca and Anthony, thanks to DAMN.. They acknowledged that Jay-Z’s 4:44 was also significant that year, but felt Kendrick’s impact was unparalleled.
2016 – Chance the Rapper
Complex chose Chance the Rapper for 2016, but the podcast hosts thought either Young Thug or Kanye West would have been more fitting choices.
2015 – A Tight Race
The hosts described 2015 as one of the toughest years to judge, with Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Future all delivering strong arguments for the title.
Revisiting the Early 2000s and 90s
Moving further back in time, Luca and Anthony continued to scrutinize Complex’s picks for earlier decades. Here’s a quick overview of their standout moments:
- 2007 – Kanye West: The hosts supported Complex’s pick, praising Graduation for its innovative sound and influence during the Kanye vs. 50 Cent sales battle.
- 2006 – Lil Wayne: While Complex gave Lil Wayne the crown, Luca and Anthony leaned toward Lupe Fiasco, who dropped Food & Liquor, a landmark debut.
- 2005 – Kanye West vs. The Game: Complex named Kanye West the winner for Late Registration, but the podcast noted The Game as a strong contender for reviving West Coast rap.
- 2004 – T.I.: This was a major disagreement point, with the hosts feeling that MF DOOM or Kanye West (for The College Dropout) deserved the honor more.
- 2003 – 50 Cent: Complex’s choice of 50 Cent sparked debate, as the hosts believed Jay-Z’s The Black Album was equally deserving.
Exploring Hip-Hop’s Golden Era: The 90s & 80s
The conversation also touched on hip-hop’s golden age, with standout discussions including:
- 1998 – DMX: Both hosts agreed DMX deserved the crown for his explosive debut year.
- 1994 – Nas vs. Biggie: The ongoing debate about who owned 1994 resurfaced, with Nas (Illmatic) and Biggie (Ready to Die) being equally influential.
- 1988 – Slick Rick: The duo celebrated Slick Rick’s storytelling genius on The Great Adventures of Slick Rick.
