Artist

5 Rappers Who Also Have Incredible Singing Talents

Published December 19, 2023

It's a common misconception that rappers only turn to hip-hop because they lack a singing voice. However, the truth is far from this. While it's true that rap focuses on rhythmic and poetic expressions, some artists in the genre are equally gifted singers, blurring the lines between rapping and melodious vocal performances.

1. Drake

Drake, hailing from Toronto, Canada, has long been the subject of debate regarding whether he is more of a rapper or a singer. But for the highly successful artist with Grammy Awards under his belt, categorizations are less important than the fact that he excels in both domains, capturing hearts with his singing and energizing fans with his rap verses.

2. Lauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill became an icon in the '90s as part of the Fugees and stands out as a formidable artist who can both rap with precision and sing with a soul-touching clarity. Hit songs like 'Killing Me Softly With His Song' showcase her smooth and powerful vocal abilities alongside her compelling raps.

3. Nelly

Though perhaps not often cited for having a 'perfect' singing voice, Nelly's vocals certainly carry a unique charm that helped shape the soundscape of the '90s and 2000s. His songs often feature a blend of singing and rapping, creating a memorable and influential style.

4. Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a prime example of an artist who seamlessly transitions between rapping and singing. Her talents were on full display as she performed the theme song for the '90s sitcom 'Living Single,' where she delivered both sung and rapped parts with natural ease and grace.

5. Missy Elliott

Missy Elliott, recognized by Queen Latifah as a trailblazer in hip-hop, is another rapper whose singing ability should not be underestimated. Her versatility is evident in songs like 'Pussycat,' where she delivers a vocal performance that could easily be mistaken for that of a dedicated singer.

Drake, Lauryn, Nelly, Queen, Missy