Author: Stephen Ibrahim

Pop superstar Justin Bieber has surprised fans yet again with the unexpected release of his eighth studio album, Swag II, on September 5, 2025. The project arrives less than two months after the launch of his previous album Swag, signaling one of the fastest turnarounds between albums in his career.

A Surprise Rollout

The album was announced in typical Bieber fashion; with cryptic billboards lighting up major cities including New York, London, Seoul, and Sydney, followed by a social media reveal just hours before release. However, some fans reported brief delays on streaming platforms, with the album appearing several hours later than its scheduled midnight debut.

Despite the hiccups, the rollout generated massive buzz online, amplified by the album’s striking pastel-pink cover art and a matching capsule collection from Bieber’s clothing brand SKYLRK.

A Double Album with 44 Tracks

Swag II arrives as a double album, featuring 23 brand-new songs alongside the 21 tracks from Swag. Together, the project runs for more than two hours, offering fans a marathon of Bieber’s evolving sound.

While Swag leaned heavily into R&B textures, its sequel embraces a more pop-oriented direction. Bieber’s vocal performances shift from soulful ballads to high-energy anthems, showing both his versatility and confidence as a performer.

Collaborations Across Genres

The new record is loaded with star-studded collaborations:

• Tems brings her soulful Afro-fusion touch to “I THINK YOU’RE SPECIAL”.
• Hurricane Chris injects Southern flair into “POPPIN’ MY S***”.
• Eddie Benjamin delivers one of the most intimate moments on “OPEN UP YOUR HEART”.
• Gunna, Cash Cobain, Bakar, Druski, Sexyy Red, Dijon, Lil B, and Marvin Winans all make appearances across various tracks.

The album’s production credits are equally diverse, with names like Mike Will Made It, Carter Lang, Dijon, Mk.gee, and Buddy Ross shaping its eclectic sound.

Beyond its collaborations, Swag II reflects Bieber’s current life stage; balancing global superstardom with his journey into fatherhood and self-discovery. Many songs highlight themes of intimacy, healing, and creative rebirth, contrasting with the swagger-heavy energy of its predecessor.

Despite release delays on certain platforms, Swag II is already climbing the charts and sparking discussions across social media.

Key Fact Box:

• Artist: Justin Bieber
• Album: Swag II
• Release Date: September 5, 2025
• Format: Double album (44 tracks, 2 hrs 11 mins)
• Notable Features: Tems, Gunna, Bakar, Hurricane Chris, Eddie Benjamin, Sexyy Red
• Style: Pop-driven with R&B and hip-hop influences
• Merch: SKYLRK pastel-pink capsule collection

Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that play a critical role in keeping your body healthy. They filter waste products from the blood, regulate fluid balance, control blood pressure, and help maintain overall metabolic stability. Unfortunately, factors like poor diet, high blood pressure, diabetes, and dehydration can strain the kidneys and lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD).

The good news? A kidney-friendly diet rich in fruits can protect and even boost kidney function. Fruits provide antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and hydration—all essential for cleansing the kidneys and preventing damage.

In this article, we highlight 8 of the best fruits for kidney health and explain why they should be part of your daily diet.

Apples: The Kidney-Friendly Fiber Fruit

Apples are rich in pectin, a type of soluble fiber that lowers cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Both high cholesterol and uncontrolled diabetes are major risk factors for kidney damage. Apples also contain anti-inflammatory compounds that protect kidney tissues.

Benefits for Kidneys:

• Lowers cholesterol and blood sugar
• Supports healthy digestion and weight control
• Helps prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Tip: Eat apples raw, add slices to salads, or blend them into smoothies for a refreshing kidney-friendly snack.

Berries: Nature’s Antioxidant

Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are loaded with vitamin C, manganese, and powerful antioxidants. They protect kidney cells from oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and may even slow the progression of kidney disease.

Benefits for Kidneys:

• Protects against free radical damage
• Reduces inflammation in kidney tissues
• Low in potassium, making them safe for CKD patients

Tip: Add a handful of berries to your breakfast oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies for a kidney-boosting start to the day.

Red Grapes: Heart and Kidney Protector

Red grapes contain resveratrol, a plant compound linked to kidney protection. Their natural antioxidants improve blood circulation, regulate blood pressure, and reduce inflammation. High blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney disease, so keeping it under control is essential.

Benefits for Kidneys:

• Rich in resveratrol for kidney protection
• Helps reduce blood pressure
• Prevents inflammation and oxidative damage

Tip: Snack on frozen grapes for a refreshing treat or add them to fruit salads.

Pineapple: Tropical Fruit with Low Potassium

Unlike bananas and oranges, pineapple is low in potassium, making it a safe choice for people with chronic kidney disease. It’s also rich in vitamin C, manganese, and bromelain, an enzyme that reduces inflammation.

Benefits for Kidneys:

• Low potassium content (CKD-friendly)
• Reduces inflammation in the body
• Supports digestion and immunity

Tip: Add fresh pineapple chunks to smoothies or enjoy them as a hydrating mid-day snack.

Watermelon: Hydration for Healthy Kidneys

Made up of about 92% water, watermelon is one of the best fruits for hydration. Staying hydrated helps the kidneys flush out toxins and prevents the formation of kidney stones. Watermelon is also rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that protects kidney tissues from damage.

Benefits for Kidneys:

• Promotes hydration and toxin removal
• Prevents kidney stone formation
• Provides antioxidants for tissue protection

Tip: Enjoy watermelon slices chilled or blend them into fresh juice without added sugar.

Cranberries: Natural UTI Defense

Cranberries are widely known for their role in urinary tract health. They contain proanthocyanidins, which prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls. This reduces the risk of UTIs, which, if left untreated, can lead to kidney infections.

Benefits for Kidneys:

• Prevents UTIs and kidney infections
• Lowers risk of stone formation
• Supports bladder and urinary tract health

Tip: Drink unsweetened cranberry juice or add dried cranberries (without added sugar) to salads.

Cherries: Anti-Inflammatory

Cherries are packed with antioxidants and phytochemicals that fight inflammation. They also help lower uric acid levels, which is crucial for people prone to gout. Since gout can damage the kidneys over time, eating cherries may help reduce the risk.

Benefits for Kidneys:

• Reduces inflammation in the body
• Lowers uric acid levels (protects against gout)
• Rich in antioxidants for kidney tissue repair

Tip: Eat fresh cherries when in season or drink cherry juice in moderation.

Citrus Fruits: Natural Kidney Stone Prevention

Lemons, limes, and oranges are rich in citric acid and vitamin C, which help prevent kidney stone formation. Citric acid binds with calcium in the urine, preventing crystals from forming and developing into stones.

Benefits for Kidneys:

• Prevents kidney stones naturally
• Strengthens the immune system
• Promotes detoxification

Tip: Start your day with a glass of warm lemon water to cleanse and hydrate your kidneys.

Your kidneys work tirelessly to filter toxins and maintain balance in your body. Supporting them with the right diet can make a big difference in preventing kidney disease and maintaining long-term health.

By including apples, berries, grapes, pineapple, watermelon, cranberries, cherries, and citrus fruits in your daily meals, you can naturally boost kidney function, prevent stone formation, and protect against inflammation.

A healthy lifestyle; balanced diet, hydration, exercise, and regular medical check-ups remains the best way to keep your kidneys functioning at their best.

The world of fashion is in mourning as Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian designer whose sleek, understated style transformed luxury dressing, has died at the age of 91. His death was confirmed on Thursday by the Armani Group, which announced that he passed away peacefully at his home in Milan, surrounded by loved ones.

A Fashion Pioneer

Born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, Italy, Armani originally studied medicine before discovering his passion for design. In 1975, he founded the Armani brand, which would grow into a global empire spanning haute couture, ready-to-wear, accessories, fragrances, interior design, and hospitality.

Armani became synonymous with timeless elegance and quiet sophistication. His revolutionary approach to tailoring, especially the introduction of unstructured jackets and relaxed suits; redefined how men and women dressed in the modern era. His creations were known for their clean lines, muted tones, and minimalist aesthetic that stood apart from flashier trends.

Armani’s influence stretched beyond the runway and into Hollywood. His designs famously dressed Richard Gere in American Gigolo (1980), a collaboration that catapulted Armani onto the global stage. From that moment on, Armani became a go-to designer for red-carpet glamour, clothing countless celebrities, athletes, and public figures.

By the 1980s, his label became synonymous with “power dressing,” giving professionals a sophisticated yet comfortable way to express authority and confidence.

Tributes and Mourning

Tributes have poured in from across the fashion industry and beyond. Fellow designer Donatella Versace described Armani as “a giant whose legacy will live forever,” while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed him as “an ambassador of Italian excellence who carried our style and creativity to the world.”

A public funeral chamber will be set up in Milan this weekend to allow admirers to pay their respects. A private funeral, as per Armani’s wishes, will follow at a later date.

At the time of his death, Armani’s empire was valued at several billion euros, with global reach through brands such as Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani, Armani Privé, Armani Exchange, and Armani Casa. Beyond fashion, his influence extended into design, architecture, and lifestyle, making him one of the most versatile figures in modern luxury.

The Nigerian film industry is about to make history with the release of its first-ever full-length 3D animated musical, Gammy and the Living Things. Produced by Utricle Studios and distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, the landmark project will debut in cinemas nationwide on September 5, 2025, setting a new standard for local animation and storytelling.

The film follows Gammy, a redhead agama lizard with big dreams of becoming a music superstar. Determined to “blow,” he leaves his small town and embarks on a thrilling adventure to Lagos, the cultural capital of Nigeria. His journey blends humor, ambition, and self-discovery with electrifying music, dance, and unmistakable Naija energy.

Star-Studded Voice Cast

Adding depth and personality to the characters is an impressive lineup of Nigerian stars. Hip-hop legend Jude “MI” Abaga voices Gammy, while veteran actors Pete Edochie and Joke Silva bring their iconic voices to key roles. Popular comedian Bovi Ugboma and other well-known talents also feature in the cast, making it one of the most star-studded animated films in Nollywood history.

Industry Recognition and Anticipation

Even before its official release, Gammy and the Living Things has been praised as a milestone achievement. A private screening in Lagos in 2023, attended by then–Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, drew acclaim for its creative ambition and cultural relevance. Film analysts have described it as a defining moment for Nigerian animation, with the potential to open doors for more African stories told through world-class animated formats.

Beyond its musical spectacle, the film celebrates Nigerian creativity and resilience. Its use of popular Naija hits, energetic dance sequences, and familiar cultural expressions promises to resonate deeply with local audiences while also appealing to international viewers curious about African animation.

A New Era for Nollywood Animation

The release of Gammy and the Living Things signals more than just another movie premiere; it represents the coming of age of Nigerian animation. With Utricle Studios leading production and FilmOne Entertainment ensuring widespread distribution, the project is positioned to redefine how Nollywood is perceived globally.

Audiences across Nigeria can look forward to experiencing this historic production when it premieres in cinemas on September 5, 2025.

The Huawei Railway Summit 2025, held alongside the Southern African Railways Association (SARA) Rail Conference & Exhibition in Johannesburg, gathered policymakers, industry leaders, and technology experts to chart a new course for the region’s rail sector through digital intelligence.

Themed “Digital Intelligence Empower African Railways: Safe, Efficient and Intelligent,” the summit brought together over 100 representatives from transport authorities, railway operators, and academic institutions. The discussions focused on how advanced digital solutions can address critical challenges in safety, efficiency, and modernization across Southern Africa’s aging railway infrastructure.

Huawei and SARA Commit to Collaboration

Opening the summit, Victor Guo, President of Huawei Enterprise Business in Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted that digital intelligence will be the “key engine accelerating the development of railways in Southern Africa.” He underscored Huawei’s commitment to working with regional stakeholders by leveraging innovations in cloud computing, AI, big data, and video detection.

Raymond Zuo, CEO of Huawei Smart Rail Business Unit, emphasized that Africa’s rail sector stands at a turning point. He called for strengthened partnerships and open innovation, affirming Huawei’s support for SARA’s mission to create a safer, more efficient, and smarter railway network across the region.

Smart Railway Solutions Showcased

Participants at the summit explored Huawei’s portfolio of digital railway technologies, including:

• FRMCS train-ground wireless standard – enabling modernized communications across railway networks.
• Cloud and AI-powered platforms – supporting data-driven decision-making and operational efficiency.
• Perimeter security systems – designed to enhance safety along railway tracks.
• TFDS freight car fault detection – providing predictive maintenance to improve asset reliability.
• Intelligent Operation Centers (IOC) – centralizing railway operations for smarter management.

These solutions aim to help operators reduce risks, improve service delivery, and boost regional trade connectivity.

The summit builds on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2023 between Huawei and SARA. The agreement outlined plans for unified ICT standards across Southern African rail corridors, with a strong focus on the adoption of FRMCS. This framework is expected to promote seamless cross-border railway operations and facilitate economic integration across the SADC region.

Rail transport remains a lifeline for Southern Africa’s economies, but inefficiencies, aging infrastructure, and safety gaps have limited its potential. The integration of digital technologies is now seen as essential to revitalizing the sector, improving competitiveness, and supporting long-term growth.

By combining Huawei’s expertise in ICT with SARA’s regional leadership, the Huawei Railway Summit 2025 signaled a shared commitment to unlocking the promise of a safer, smarter, and more efficient railway system that can meet the demands of a rapidly changing economy.

Cardi B has gone viral after a heated moment with a reporter. The Grammy-winning rapper was caught on camera throwing a pen at a journalist who subtly asked about the paternity of her rumored pregnancy.

The exchange happened outside a Los Angeles courthouse, where Cardi was leaving a hearing related to her assault trial. The reporter shouted:

Reporter: “Cardi, insiders are claiming that Offset is publicly bragging about getting you pregnant for the fourth time. Do you foresee any paternity issues with Stefon Diggs?”

The question struck a nerve. Cardi B reacted by throwing the marker she was holding at the reporter and sharply responded:

Cardi B: “Stop disrespecting me. Don’t disrespect me.”

The reporter, attempting to defuse the tension, replied:

Reporter: “I still love you even though you just threw some stuff at me.”

Cardi B: “I don’t care. You’re disrespectful. Don’t do that. Do you see women asking those types of questions of me? Why do you, as a man, feel you get to ask me those types of questions? Act like you have some manners. Your momma taught you—respect women.”

As she walked away, she turned back to address the press pack, warning them about future access:

Cardi B: “Y’all are not going to see me after that, and you can thank him. I’m not playing around. I was very nice, I was very kind… Nobody’s going to get that no more.”

Fans React to Cardi B’s Outburst

The viral video has sparked divided opinions online. Many of Cardi B’s fans defended her response, arguing that questions about her alleged pregnancy cross personal boundaries. Others, however, felt the reaction was too extreme for a press event.

On social media, some users applauded her for standing her ground: “People need to respect boundaries. She’s not obligated to share everything.”
“The media always pushes too far, and Cardi just snapped.”

Meanwhile, critics said the rapper could have handled the situation without escalating it “Reporters ask tough questions. Throwing things isn’t the answer.”

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and taking care of it goes beyond washing and moisturizing. Many people unknowingly apply things that do more harm than good, often in the name of “DIY skincare” or quick fixes. To protect your skin barrier and keep it healthy, here are five things you should stop putting on your skin and safer alternatives to use instead.

1. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is often praised as a natural lightener or acne remedy. However, it’s highly acidic (with a pH of around 2), which can irritate your skin, disrupt its natural balance, and cause chemical burns. Even worse, lemon juice increases your sensitivity to sunlight, which can lead to stubborn dark spots and long-term skin damage.

Safer alternative: Try products with vitamin C serums or niacinamide for brightening. These are formulated to be gentle yet effective.

2. Toothpaste

A common “hack” for pimples is dabbing toothpaste on breakouts. But toothpaste contains fluoride, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda, which can burn or excessively dry out the skin. This often leads to redness, irritation, and even scarring.

Safer alternative: Use a spot treatment with benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or tea tree oil. These are dermatologist-approved for acne.

3. Sugar Scrubs (on Your Face)

While sugar scrubs may feel satisfying on your body, they’re too harsh for your delicate facial skin. The uneven, sharp granules can cause micro-tears, leaving your skin inflamed and prone to infection or breakouts.

Safer alternative: Use gentle chemical exfoliants like AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid). These smooth the skin without physical damage.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a strong disinfectant, but that doesn’t make it safe for skincare. Applying it directly to wounds or acne damages healthy skin cells, slows down healing, and can cause long-term irritation.

Safer alternative: Clean wounds with mild soap and water, and use over-the-counter antiseptic creams if needed. For acne, stick to dermatologist-recommended treatments.

5. Hot Water

While it may feel relaxing, hot water is harsh on your skin. It strips away natural oils, weakens your protective barrier, and leaves skin dry, itchy, and more prone to premature aging or eczema flare-ups.

Safer alternative: Use lukewarm water to cleanse your skin and always follow up with a hydrating moisturizer.

Your skin deserves care, not experiments that can cause long-term damage. Always choose products that are dermatologist-tested, pH-balanced, and formulated for your skin type. When in doubt, consult a professional instead of turning to DIY hacks that may do more harm than good.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified dermatologist or healthcare professional before trying new skincare treatments or products, especially if you have sensitive skin or existing skin conditions.

The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cybersecurity cooperation with Nigeria, pledging technical assistance, intelligence sharing, and strategic frameworks to address growing digital threats.

At the “Anticipatory, Cyber and Digital Diplomacy” seminar held in Abuja on September 2, 2025, UK officials emphasized the importance of safeguarding Nigeria’s digital landscape against cybercrime, disinformation, and emerging risks linked to artificial intelligence (AI).

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, described the collaboration as “vital for strengthening national resilience,” noting that cyber threats have become increasingly sophisticated. He highlighted the potential misuse of AI to amplify disinformation and hate speech, warning that both nations must stay ahead of evolving risks.

Expanding the Cybersecurity MoU

The UK and Nigeria first signed a cybersecurity Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2024. Under the expanded framework, cooperation now spans five key areas:

• Threat hunting
• Cyber threat intelligence sharing
• Protection of critical national infrastructure
• Digital forensics
• Incident response planning

This expansion reflects a shift from policy dialogue to more practical, technical, and operational cooperation.

Broader Security and Digital Initiatives

The partnership builds on several recent milestones:

• July 2025: The Third UK–Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership Dialogue in London prioritized cybercrime, disinformation, AI misuse, and hybrid threats.
• May 2025: Nigeria launched a Joint Case Team on Cybercrime with UK and Commonwealth support, bringing together agencies like the EFCC, Police, and Ministry of Justice to coordinate investigations and prosecutions.
• May 2025: A Fraud MoU was signed to improve fraud prevention and strengthen prosecutions.
• March 2025: The UK concluded a Cybersecurity Trade Mission in Nigeria, where experts and stakeholders worked on frameworks for a National Cybersecurity Architecture.

Both countries have pledged to continue their strategic partnership, with the next round of the UK–Nigeria Security and Defence Dialogue scheduled for 2026 in Abuja. Analysts say the success of these initiatives will depend on effective implementation, funding, and the ability to balance cybersecurity with digital rights.

“Cybersecurity is no longer a national challenge but a global one,” Montgomery stressed. “By working together, the UK and Nigeria can set a model for resilience and responsible governance in the digital age.”

Report: The Film, Its Release, and Reception

Benny Safdie’s The Smashing Machine debuted at the Venice Film Festival on September 1, 2025, and immediately set the tone as one of the most talked-about premieres of the year. Produced by A24, Seven Bucks Productions, and Out for the Count, the film adapts the turbulent real life of MMA pioneer Mark Kerr, who rose to fame in the late 1990s UFC era.

Dwayne Johnson takes on the role of Kerr in what critics are calling a career-defining performance. Shedding his Hollywood action-hero persona, Johnson undergoes a drastic physical transformation with the help of prosthetics and weight loss, and delivers a raw, vulnerable portrayal of an athlete both celebrated and broken. Opposite him, Emily Blunt stars as Dawn Staples-Kerr, Kerr’s on-again, off-again partner, whose presence anchors the emotional core of the narrative.

Shot partly on 16mm and 70mm IMAX film, Safdie crafts an unflinching, almost documentary-like vision of Kerr’s world, weaving together the adrenaline of the cage, the dark spiral of opioid addiction, and the fragility of his personal relationships. The film received a 15-minute standing ovation in Venice, leaving Johnson in tears, and has already sparked early Oscar buzz for both him and Blunt.

Theatrical release is set for October 3, 2025 worldwide.

Review: A Raw and Unrecognizable Rock

The Smashing Machine is not just another sports biopic; it’s a study of pain, masculinity, and survival. Safdie, known for his frenetic realism in Uncut Gems, strips away the gloss of UFC spectacle to show the body and mind of an athlete consumed by both triumph and trauma.

Johnson’s transformation is the film’s revelation. For perhaps the first time in his career, he disappears into a role. His Mark Kerr is not “The Rock” the entertainer, but a man burdened by pressure, numbed by painkillers, and desperate to keep love alive while battling his own self-destruction. Johnson is bruised, bloated, fragile and utterly convincing.

Emily Blunt is equally compelling. As Dawn, she brings empathy and sharp edges, refusing to be a one-note “supportive partner.” Their volatile relationship carries the film’s emotional weight, often more gripping than the fights themselves.

Dwayne Johnson reveals he now focus on more than just Box Office numbers:

"Hollywood has become about box-office. Chasing that can push you into a corner. I understood that, and I made those movies, and I liked them. Some did really well, some not so good. But I kept thinking… pic.twitter.com/O5mRVeupWw

— Streamdorm Film Updates 🎥 (@Streamdorm_) September 1, 2025

Stylistically, Safdie opts for a grainy, immersive aesthetic—blood, sweat, and needle marks are shown with uncomfortable intimacy. The fight sequences aren’t staged as crowd-pleasers; they’re brutal, exhausting, and at times difficult to watch, underscoring the toll on Kerr’s body and psyche.

At its best, The Smashing Machine recalls Raging Bull and The Wrestler but instead of glamorizing combat, it portrays the UFC’s early days as chaotic, lawless, and exploitative. Safdie’s pacing occasionally lingers too long on Kerr’s spirals, but this indulgence also mirrors the suffocating cycle of addiction.

The Smashing Machine is a career reset for Dwayne Johnson, a role that proves he can be more than a blockbuster icon. Benny Safdie delivers a film that is brutal, tender, and unrelenting in its honesty. It’s not a movie about winning fights; it’s a movie about losing oneself, and maybe clawing back fragments of humanity along the way.

Rating: 4.5/5

Hip-hop in the 21st century has been defined not only by artistry but also by commercial dominance, Billboard chart records, streaming power, and cultural influence. To capture this fully, the following; chart performance, longevity, commercial reach, and global impact; while keeping the focus squarely on hip-hop.

1. Drake

Drake stands as the undisputed leader of 21st-century hip-hop. His Billboard chart dominance is unmatched, holding the record for the most Billboard Hot 100 entries and numerous R&B/Hip-Hop chart milestones. Albums such as Take Care, Views, Scorpion, and Certified Lover Boy broke streaming records and produced anthems that defined entire eras. Beyond the numbers, Drake’s ability to merge rap with R&B and pop melodies reshaped hip-hop into the most accessible genre of modern music. His global tours and collaborations have only reinforced his status as the most commercially successful rapper of this century.

2. Jay-Z  

Jay-Z’s career began before the 21st century, but his influence and dominance extended deeply into it. The Blueprint (2001) and The Black Album (2003) are benchmarks in rap history, while 4:44 proved his relevance well into his late career. His Billboard credentials include 14 No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200, making him one of the most charted rappers of all time. More than just a musician, Jay-Z set the template for hip-hop as enterprise, showing how artistry, business, and cultural leadership can intersect. His impact resonates through music, fashion, and even sports ownership.

3. Eminem

Eminem remains one of the best-selling rappers ever, with multiple diamond-certified albums. The Eminem Show and Encore dominated the early 2000s, while songs like “Lose Yourself” and “Love the Way You Lie” became cultural fixtures. Billboard numbers back his legacy—he has over 10 No. 1 albums and numerous chart-topping singles. While his commercial dominance slowed in the 2020s, his legacy as a lyrical giant and crossover superstar secures his place in the upper echelon of 21st-century hip-hop.

4. Kanye West  

Kanye West’s legacy is built on both chart success and innovation. The College Dropout (2004) shifted rap’s narrative, while Graduation (2007) marked his global rise. 808s & Heartbreak reshaped rap’s emotional language, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is widely considered a masterpiece. His 10 Billboard 200 No. 1 albums and cultural influence across music, fashion, and art make him an essential 21st-century figure. Despite controversies, his artistic contributions remain undeniable.

5. Lil Wayne

Lil Wayne dominated the mid-to-late 2000s with his relentless mixtape output and the Tha Carter album series. At his peak, Wayne was releasing music that saturated Billboard charts and influenced nearly every rapper who came after him. His role in discovering and mentoring Drake and Nicki Minaj through Young Money cemented his importance in shaping the next generation. With Grammy wins, countless Billboard hits, and unmatched influence on modern rap slang and flows, Wayne’s legacy is undeniable.

6. Kendrick Lamar

 Kendrick Lamar represents the bridge between commercial success and critical acclaim. While he does not match Drake in Billboard chart numbers, his albums (good kid, m.A.A.d city, To Pimp a Butterfly, DAMN.) are regarded as cultural landmarks. DAMN. even earned him the Pulitzer Prize, the first for a rapper. His singles such as “HUMBLE.” and “Alright” are both Billboard successes and cultural touchstones. Kendrick’s ability to balance mainstream success with social commentary makes him a unique figure in 21st-century hip-hop.

7. Nicki Minaj

Nicki Minaj is the most successful female rapper of all time, both commercially and culturally. Her Billboard stats include dozens of Hot 100 entries and multiple No. 1 singles. Beyond numbers, she broke barriers for women in hip-hop, sustaining dominance in a male-dominated space for more than a decade. Her albums (Pink Friday, The Pinkprint, Queen) brought her global fame, and her persona influenced an entire generation of rappers. Nicki’s combination of lyrical skill, mainstream success, and cultural imprint places her firmly in this ranking.

8. Future  

Future reshaped trap music into a dominant sound of the 2010s. His Billboard presence is substantial, with multiple No. 1 albums and Hot 100 hits. Albums like DS2 and HNDRXX defined modern trap, while collaborations with Drake (What a Time to Be Alive) expanded his reach. Future’s influence is clear in the melodic, auto-tuned style adopted by today’s rising rappers. His consistency across mixtapes, albums, and collaborations solidifies him as one of the most important hip-hop voices of this century.

9. J. Cole  

J. Cole embodies the self-sufficient rapper, often producing his own work and rarely relying on guest features. Despite this, he has achieved remarkable Billboard success, with every studio album debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Albums like 2014 Forest Hills Drive and KOD resonate both commercially and critically, making him a rare figure who balances introspection with chart performance. His “platinum with no features” narrative underscores his unique place in hip-hop history.

10. Travis Scott

Travis Scott brought spectacle to modern hip-hop. His Billboard breakthrough came with Astroworld (2018), which included “Sicko Mode,” his first Hot 100 No. 1 single. His live performances, particularly the Astroworld Festival, redefined hip-hop shows as immersive experiences. Scott’s collaborations with Nike and his influence on fashion and youth culture expand his cultural dominance beyond music. While his career is still evolving, his chart presence and cultural influence secure him a spot in this top 10.

This ranking reflects the dual lens of Billboard-inspired metrics; chart performance, longevity, and commercial power, combined with artistry and cultural significance. These 10 artists shaped the 21st-century hip-hop landscape, and their impact continues to define the genre globally.