It takes more than talent for a MC to blow up. But sometimes, something as simple as a guest verse on the right track at the perfect moment can change a career for the better.
Hip-Hop Wired lists some MCs who became renowned following show-stealing verses. Hit the jump to see the selections.
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Photo: Instagram
Main Source ft. Nas – “Live At the Barbecue”
Artist: Nas
The list must start here. This was the moment the world learned of Nasty Nas from Queensbridge.
A Tribe Called Quest ft. Leaders of the New School – “Scenario”
Artist: Busta Rhymes
All that Hip-Hop fans have come to know and love about Bussa Buss was displayed in this verse. When LOTNS separated, it was only a matter of time before he reached superstar status.
Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Doggy Dogg – “Nothin’ But A G Thang”
Artist: Snoop Doggy Dogg
While Snoop definitely earned his keep on “Deep Cover,” his verse on this track sent him out of the stratosphere.
Kanye West ft. Jay Z, Pusha T, & Nicki Minaj – “Monster”
Artist: Nicki Minaj
People still scrunch up their faces at the mere mention of Nicki’s “Monster” verse.
Nas ft. AZ – “Life’s A B*tch”
Artist: AZ
AZ, the only guest MC on Nas’ Illmatic, delivered one of the greatest guest verses in Hip-Hop history on arguably the GOAT rap album.
Jay Z ft. Memphis Bleek & Freeway – “1-900-Hustler”
Artist: Freeway
Philly Freezer kicked the door down, spitting flame emojis long before iPhons existed over Bink!’s horn-driven production.
Ghostface Killah ft. Raekwon, U-God, Masta Ace & Cappadonna – “Winter Warz”
Artist: Cappadonna
If you’re familiar with the new slang term, “glo,” just know that’s what Cap did on this classic Ghostface track.
Wale ft. J. Cole – “Beautiful Bliss”
Artist: J. Cole
Wale was the first of the Internet-era rappers to get a major look, but Cole’s appearance on “Beautiful Bliss” let listeners know that he wasn’t far behind.
Do or Die – “Po Pimp”
Artist: Twista
Twista’s closing verse (and those shorts) are what legendary rap appearances are made of.
Cam’ron ft. Juelz Santana – “Oh Boy”
Artist: Juelz Santana
Wear a bandana in Santana’s honor. Or not.
Dr. Dre ft. Eminem – “Forgot About Dre”
Artist: Eminem
Eminem saw a segmented fan base after The Slim Shady LP. Hip-Hop heads that were woke were familiar with his Infinite days, while new fans saw his as the blonde hair-sporting “My Name Is” rapper. Then this happened.
Kendrick Lamar ft. Rapsody – “Complexion”
Artist: Rapsody
K. Dot and the Jamla MC’s traded verses on wax years before “Complexion.” But as To Pimp A Butterfly continues to be a focal point in rap convos, so is Rapsody’s stellar guest appearance. It’s a little early to say if she’ll be a household name, but we’re all for speaking it into existence.
