In biblical times, a man’s hair was his man source of strength. In new era rapper times, it’s a way for MCs to stand out in a crowded arena. Hence, a competition for the best rapper beards was unofficially born.
Once reserved for religious sects and lumberjacks, big beards have become so prominent in popular culture, there is even new technology surfacing for that makes it possible for a facial hair transplant.
Naturally, such cosmetic struggle will cost a pretty penny, there is a members-only club of rapper beards that have stuck with artists since day one and no razor shall tear them apart.
Baby-faced killas such as Drake, Common and Ice Cube have dibbled and dabbled with the facial hair but have been much too indecisive over the years to earn commitment points. Hip-Hop Wired has rounded up 20 rappers who, no matter winter, summer or a mandatory court date, have stayed true to sporting their beards.
Check out the rugged men in the no-shave gallery.
—
Photo: Instagram/Rich Forever
Photo: Instagram/Rich Forever
Rick Ross
The “mastermind” screams Maybach every chance he gets but he’s never taking a Mach 3 to his face.
Photo: Instagram/Philly Freezer
Freeway
The former Roc-A-Fella/State Property champion learned how to market his Muslim beliefs early on and it’s paid off.
Photo: Instagram/Jakk Frost
Jakk Frost
Like his Philly friend Freeway, this 215 representer has saved a gang of money on scarves over the years.
Photo: Instagram/Joe Budden
Joe Budden
Joey may have not gotten Tahiry but all he needs in this life of sin is his manly chin.
Photo: Mr. Blue/WENN.com
?uestlove & Black Thought
All the best musicians sport the beard, didn’t you know?
Photo: Instagram/Stalley
Stalley
Like his intelligent crunk raps, Stalley’s beard has become his staple.
Photo: Instagram/Raekwon
Raekwon
The Chef has been Wu-rocking his facial hair since he entered the 36 Chambers. Now that’s dedication.
Photo: Judy Eddy/WENN.com
Method Man
What would an M-E-T-H-O-D Man be without his scruff?
Photo: Instagram/BamBamBaklava
Action Bronson
Bronsolini has allowed his beard to grow wilder than the contents of his raps.
Photo: WENN.com
Suge Knight
The only thing bigger than Simon’s beard is his temper.
Photo: screen cap
Sean Price & Tek
Don’t bring a razor to any Boot Camp Clik fight.
Photo: Instagram/Tone Trump
Tone Trump
The CTE member may have caught one of the most epic fades on camera, but not one hair on his beard was harmed.
Guilty Simpson
Like his Random Axe brother Sean Mandela, the Detroit bully has experimented with all assortments of the gruff in his career.
Photo: Instagram/Ms. Cherry Le
Jeru The Damaja
Jeru is really 84-years-old but his goatee keeps him successfully performing “Come Clean” in every Asian country on the planet.
Photo: Instagram/Jewice
Zombie Juice (Flatbush Zombies)
Brooklyn can be a concrete jungle sometimes and those that wear the lion’s mane can claim king.
Photo: Instagram/Aaron Cohen
Aaron Cohen
If you weren’t aware they grew them like this in Seattle, you’ve learned something new for the day.
Rick Rubin
The Def Jam co-founder has lost more rap knowledge in his mane they most of us will ever learn.
