25. LL Cool J
Before being known exclusively as an actor, LL Cool J was quite the rapper. The Queens native was a child prodigy. He began rapping as a young kid — and ultimately made a name for himself all over New York City. The 51-year-old holds the distinction as being one of the first rappers to burst into American mainstream media. LL Cool J also must get tons of props for cultivating a career starting in 1984.
Image Source: CBS News
24. Lupe Fiasco
Lupe Fiasco kicked and pushed his way into the limelight during the early 2000s. The Chicago native is a highly complex individual. He doesn’t care about being mainstream — nor does he conform to anyone’s idea of what he should be. Lupe Fiasco’s music speaks to the people — and the said plight of those who are beset by issues. Aside from being an award-winning artist, Lupe Fiasco is also highly successful as a producer and a business owner (with multiple clothing lines).
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