The New York Times Editorial Staff - Influential Hip-Hop Artists: Kendrick Lamar, Nicki Minaj and Others

JOHN FRANCIS PETERS FOR THE NEW YORK TIMES

Kendrick Lamar in Los Angeles in March 2015.

The articles in this book highlight the careers and works of six of hip-hops major stars: Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Nicki Minaj, Drake, Cardi B and Kanye West. These artists embody different aspects of a diverse and ever-evolving industry: Jay-Z, who has been releasing records since the mid-90s, has shaped the sound of hip-hop through his work with his Roc Nation label, while Cardi B is one of the newest voices on the scene.

The popularity of these stars has resulted in conflict as well as acclaim. Kanye West has long been one of hip-hops most prominent and controversial voices, landing in trouble for his off-the-cuff and unpredictable statements. Nicki Minaj famously feuded with the pop star Taylor Swift. As the articles in this book demonstrate, all of these musicians have had to negotiate the very real consequences that accompany extreme fame and wealth.

As these artists have reached superstardom, their influence has affected areas of culture well beyond just the music industry. Kanye West has shaken up the fashion world with his Yeezy fashion line, and Jay-Z has become a well-known investor and entrepreneur. From business ventures to Pulitzer Prizes, these artists have had an indisputable impact on American society.

Even as hip-hop has received widespread cultural attention, it is also in a state of transition. Long dominated primarily by male artists, more and more female rappers are rising to prominence, contributing to new musical styles and lyrical subjects. And as the expansion of free platforms such as Soundcloud and YouTube allows undiscovered artists to build an audience, the genre continues to expand and evolve. One thing is for certain: hip-hop is an art form on the rise.

Jay-Z (born Shawn Carter) released his first album Reasonable Doubt" in 1996, topping the Billboard charts and going platinum. Since then, Jay-Z has authored more than a dozen records and produced many others, cementing his status as a hip-hop icon. His influence extends beyond his music: he has founded a record label, bought a stake in the Brooklyn Nets and made a name for himself in artistic and philanthropic circles. The articles in this chapter highlight his career trajectory and reputation.

BY KELEFA SANNEH | JUNE 27, 2006

IF YOU REMEMBER the 90s right now, put one hand in the air right now.

Thats a cleaned-up version of what Funkmaster Flex said as he warmed up the crowd in Radio City Music Hall on Sunday night. He asked, How many people 25 and older? And thousands of old-timers made some noise. This was a night devoted to ancient history, which explains why Jay-Z rolled onstage in a vintage automobile: a decade-old Lexus.

The occasion was the 10th anniversary of Jay-Zs debut album, Reasonable Doubt, which is now widely and properly celebrated as a hip-hop classic. If his life had imitated one of his own dopeman narratives, his quick rise would have been followed by success, excess and a slow decline. (Or maybe, if he made one enemy too many, a quick one.) Instead, he got on top and stayed there; he was the rapper to beat even when he wasnt topping the charts. He retired in 2003 and became president of Def Jam Recordings, but no one believes hes gone for good. Back then he bragged about having matching VCRs, a huge Magnavox. A decade later that boast sounds impressive in a way he couldnt have predicted: the flashy Brooklyn rapper has outgrown Magnavox and outlasted VCRs.