15 Unforgettable Rap Feuds in Hip Hop History

For better or worse, beef in hip-hop has always been a part of the culture. It’s an age-old clash that builds tension, fuels creativity, and often sparks unforgettable tracks. Some beefs escalate into personal vendettas, while others remain friendly sparring matches. Recently, Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s ongoing rivalry has captivated audiences and raised the stakes in an format reshaped by social media, making it possibly one of the greatest rap beefs ever. However, hip-hop’s storied history is replete with iconic clashes that have defined the genre. Here are 15 of the most memorable rap beefs in history.

1. Tupac vs. The Notorious B.I.G.

The rivalry that ultimately led to tragedy, Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G.’s fallout is the quintessential rap feud. From friendship to animosity, the two exchanged diss tracks like “Hit ‘Em Up” and “Who Shot Ya?” Their beef symbolized the East Coast-West Coast rap divide, culminating in both artists’ untimely deaths.

2. Nas vs. Jay-Z

The rivalry between Nas and Jay-Z is often seen as one of hip-hop’s most significant battles. It began with subliminal jabs and escalated to the legendary diss track “Ether” from Nas and Jay-Z’s “Takeover”. Their feud highlighted the rivalry between lyrical prowess and commercial success.

3. 50 Cent vs. Ja Rule

50 Cent’s rise to fame was fueled by his beef with Ja Rule. The rivalry included sharp diss tracks like “Wanksta” and 50’s relentless mockery of Ja Rule’s image. This beef exemplified how one artist’s career can dramatically overshadow another’s.

4. Eminem vs. Benzino

Benzino, co-owner of The Source magazine, publicly criticized Eminem’s credibility and racial identity, prompting a fierce response from Eminem. Their feud gave us tracks like “Nail in the Coffin” and solidified Eminem’s position in the industry against the odds.

5. Drake vs. Meek Mill

What began as a tweet turned explosive following Meek Mill’s allegations that Drake didn’t write his own lyrics. The back-and-forth resulted in diss tracks like “Back to Back,” which earned Drake a Grammy nomination and solidified his status in the hip-hop hierarchy.

6. Lil’ Kim vs. Nicki Minaj

The tension between Lil’ Kim and Nicki Minaj has been palpable since Nicki arrived on the scene. With Kim accusing Nicki of biting her style, their war of words led to songs and battles over influence, artistic credibility, and the queen of rap title.

7. Pusha T vs. Drake

This beef reignited after Pusha T’s “The Story of Adidon,” which revealed sensitive details about Drake’s personal life. The conflict showcased both artists’ strengths in lyrical dexterity, reflecting the gritty landscape of modern rap beefs fueled by social media.

8. Ice Cube vs. N.W.A

Ice Cube’s departure from N.W.A led to lyrical fireworks as he called out his former groupmates for their treatment of him in songs like “No Vaseline.” Cube’s words shone a light on industry politics and personal betrayal, making it one of hip-hop’s early famous feuds.

9. Snoop Dogg vs. Eminem

The friendship between Snoop Dogg and Eminem took a rocky turn when Snoop expressed doubts about Em’s credibility as a top artist. The tension has resulted in subtle disses and exchanges, making it an ongoing battle in the public eye.

10. Kanye West vs. 50 Cent

In what can be considered a marketing strategy turned rivalry, Kanye West and 50 Cent faced off over album sales in 2007. While it was never overly hostile, the competition highlighted the changing landscape of hip-hop consumption.

11. J. Cole vs. Lil Pump

What started as a few offhand comments quickly escalated into a feud over authenticity and artistry, culminating in Cole’s track “1985 (Intro to The Fall Off)” as a cautionary tale for Lil Pump and the new generation.

12. Azealia Banks vs. Iggy Azalea

Azealia Banks’s berating of Iggy Azalea became notorious for its biting personal barbs. While it revolved around accusations of cultural appropriation, the feud culminated in a series of social media spats and diss tracks that highlighted broader industry issues.

13. Fat Joe vs. 50 Cent

Fat Joe’s beef with 50 Cent was rife with insults and diss tracks, noticeably “Whatcha Gon’ Do” and 50’s “How to Rob.” Their rivalry underscored differing styles and the feline tensions that influence the genre.

14. Kendrick Lamar vs. Big Sean

Kendrick Lamar’s verse on “Control” sent shockwaves through the industry, calling out several rappers, including Big Sean. This led to lyrical responses and a defined rivalry, emphasizing competition among contemporary artists.

15. YG vs. 6ix9ine

Recent memos between YG and 6ix9ine have sparked debates over street credibility and authenticity in hip-hop. Their feud illustrates the generational divide and differing attitudes prevalent in the current landscape.