Rappers are more than just musicians; they’re poets, storytellers, and philosophers.
Their lyrics often contain profound insights into life, love, struggle, and success.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the world of hip-hop and share over 150 of the best rapper quotes that are sure to inspire, motivate, and make you think.
Whether you’re a die-hard hip-hop fan or simply looking for some words of wisdom, these quotes will resonate with you.
From iconic lines by legends like Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. to thought-provoking verses by Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole, we’ve got you covered.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by the best rapper quotes of all time!
Looking for inspiration beyond relationships? Check out our collection of Deep Love Messages For Him: 165+ Heartfelt Expressions.
Best Future Quotes by Rappers
Future, known for his trap anthems and introspective lyrics, has delivered numerous quotable lines over the years. His words often touch on themes of ambition, perseverance, and self-belief. Here are some of the best Future quotes that capture his unique perspective:
- “I’m on the pursuit of happiness, and I know everything that shine ain’t always gonna be gold.”
- “I believe in myself, and I believe in my team. That’s all that matters.”
- “The only time you should ever look back is to see how far you’ve come.”
- “You can’t let your failures define you. You have to let your failures teach you.”
- “Life’s a marathon, not a sprint. Keep pushing forward, one step at a time.”
- “Don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t achieve. Believe in yourself and go for it.”
- “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
- “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”
- “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
- “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.”
- “The mind is everything. What you think you become.”
- “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.”
- “The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.”
- “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.”
- “The best revenge is massive success.”
These best rapper quotes from Future offer a glimpse into his mindset and provide valuable life lessons for anyone striving for greatness.
Rhyme & Reason: Best Quotes for Rappers
Rappers are wordsmiths, constantly crafting lyrics that are both catchy and meaningful. These quotes highlight the power of language and the art of storytelling through rap:
- “Rap is something you do. Hip Hop is something you live.” – KRS-One
- “Hip-hop is the CNN of the ghetto.” – Chuck D
- “Rap music is just computerised talking.” – Grandmaster Flash
- “My mama always used to tell me: ‘If you can’t find somethin’ to live for, you best find somethin’ to die for.'” – Tupac Shakur
- “I’m not a businessman, I’m a business, man.” – Jay-Z
- “Reality is wrong. Dreams are for real.” – Tupac Shakur
- “I’d rather die enormous than live dormant.” – Jay-Z
- “The purpose of life, is a life of purpose.” – Kendrick Lamar
- “The game ain’t always fair, but you can’t let that stop you from playin’.” – Chance the Rapper
- “The key to immortality is first living a life worth remembering.” – Bruce Lee (sampled by Immortal Technique)
- “Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.” – Steve Jobs (sampled by Kanye West)
- “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” – John Lennon (sampled by Nas)
- “The greatest wealth is to live content with little.” – Plato (sampled by J. Cole)
- “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela (sampled by Lupe Fiasco)
- “The only thing that interferes with my learning is my education.” – Albert Einstein (sampled by Logic)
Life Lessons in Lyrics: Best Rapper Quotes About Life
Rappers often use their music to reflect on the complexities of life, offering listeners valuable insights and perspectives. Here are some of the best rapper quotes about life:
- “Life’s a bitch and then you die. That’s why we get high, ’cause you never know when you’re gonna go.” – Nas
- “The world is yours.” – Nas
- “Life without dreaming is a life without meaning.” – Wale
- “Life is too short to live the same day twice. So each new day make sure you live your life.” – Machine Gun Kelly
- “Everybody dies, but not everybody lives.” – Drake
- “Life ain’t always beautiful, but it’s a beautiful thing.” – J. Cole
- “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” – Martin Luther King Jr. (sampled by Kendrick Lamar)
- “The mind is a powerful thing. When you fill it with positive thoughts, your life will start to change.”
- “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt (sampled by Eminem)
- “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu (sampled by Wu-Tang Clan)
- “Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but of playing a poor hand well.” – Robert Louis Stevenson (sampled by A Tribe Called Quest)
- “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.” – Steve Jobs (sampled by Kanye West)
- “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude.” – Oprah Winfrey (sampled by Common)
- “The purpose of our lives is to be happy.” – Dalai Lama (sampled by Macklemore)
- “Life is a game, play it; Life is a challenge, Meet it; Life is an opportunity, Capture it.” – Mother Teresa (sampled by 2Pac)
Rappers often touch upon the complexities of relationships, sometimes even toxic ones.
If you’re looking for support and healing in such situations, check out our article on 120+ Toxic Relationship Quotes to Help You Heal and Find Strength.
Lyrical Masterpieces: Best Rap Sentences
Some rap lines are so impactful that they stand alone as works of art. These best rap sentences showcase the power of concise and evocative language:
- “I’m not a businessman, I’m a business, man.” – Jay-Z
- “Get rich or die tryin’.” – 50 Cent
- “Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems.” – The Notorious B.I.G.
- “Juicy” – The Notorious B.I.G.
- “The world is yours.” – Nas
- “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” – Norman Vincent Peale (sampled by Kanye West)
- “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt (sampled by Eminem)
- “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” – Nelson Mandela (sampled by Lupe Fiasco)
- “The purpose of our lives is to be happy.” – Dalai Lama (sampled by Macklemore)
- “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.” – Steve Jobs (sampled by Kanye West)
- “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” – John Lennon (sampled by Nas)
- “The mind is everything. What you think you become.” – Buddha (sampled by Jay-Z)
- “The only thing that interferes with my learning is my education.” – Albert Einstein (sampled by Logic)
- “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela (sampled by Lupe Fiasco)
- “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” – Helen Keller (sampled by Common)
Fuel Your Fire: Inspirational Quotes Rappers
Rappers often use their platform to uplift and empower their listeners. These inspirational quotes from rappers are sure to motivate you to chase your dreams and overcome obstacles:
- “Don’t be afraid to be different. Be afraid to be the same as everyone else.” – Kendrick Lamar
- “You can do anything you set your mind to, man.” – Eminem
- “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson (sampled by Chance the Rapper)
- “The difference between winning and losing is most often not quitting.” – Walt Disney (sampled by Nicki Minaj)
- “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt (sampled by Meek Mill)
- “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.” – Steve Jobs (sampled by Kanye West)
- “The mind is a powerful thing. When you fill it with positive thoughts, your life will start to change.”
- “Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” – Theodore Roosevelt (sampled by Jay-Z)
- “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt (sampled by Eminem)
- “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu (sampled by Wu-Tang Clan)
- “Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but of playing a poor hand well.” – Robert Louis Stevenson (sampled by A Tribe Called Quest)
- “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude.” – Oprah Winfrey (sampled by Common)
- “The purpose of our lives is to be happy.” – Dalai Lama (sampled by Macklemore)
- “Life is a game, play it; Life is a challenge, Meet it; Life is an opportunity, Capture it.” – Mother Teresa (sampled by 2Pac)
- “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” – Helen Keller (sampled by Common)
These best rapper quotes serve as a powerful reminder that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a positive mindset.
Words of Wisdom: Quotes from Famous Rappers
Some rappers have achieved legendary status, leaving behind a legacy of iconic lyrics and timeless wisdom. These quotes from famous rappers offer a glimpse into their minds and their impact on the world:
- “I’m not afraid to die. I’m afraid to not try.” – Jay-Z
- “If you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere.” – Jay-Z
- “It’s not about the money… it’s about the freedom.” – Jay-Z
- “I’m not a businessman; I’m a business, man!” – Jay-Z
- “Either you’re runnin’ the day, or the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela (sampled by Lupe Fiasco)
- “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” – Helen Keller (sampled by Common)
Inspirational Quotes Rappers
Rappers have a unique ability to inspire and uplift their listeners through their music. Here are some of the most inspirational quotes from rappers:
- “Don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t achieve. Believe in yourself and go for it.” – Nicki Minaj
- “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson (sampled by Eminem)
- “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt (sampled by 2Pac)
- “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” – Nelson Mandela (sampled by Lupe Fiasco)
- “The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.” – Jimmy Johnson (sampled by Drake)
- “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” – Albert Einstein (sampled by Nipsey Hussle)
- “The best revenge is massive success.” – Frank Sinatra (sampled by Big Sean)
- “The mind is everything. What you think you become.” – Buddha (sampled by Jay-Z)
- “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.” – Steve Jobs (sampled by Kanye West)
- “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” – John Lennon (sampled by Nas)
- “The only thing that interferes with my learning is my education.” – Albert Einstein (sampled by Logic)
- “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela (sampled by Lupe Fiasco)
- “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” – Helen Keller (sampled by Common)
- “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” – Norman Vincent Peale (sampled by Kanye West)
- “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt (sampled by Eminem)
Words of Wisdom: Quotes from Famous Rappers
Some rappers have become cultural icons, their words echoing through generations. Here are some timeless quotes from famous rappers:
- “I’m not a businessman, I’m a business, man.” – Jay-Z
- “Get rich or die tryin’.” – 50 Cent
- “Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems.” – The Notorious B.I.G.
- “Juicy” – The Notorious B.I.G.
- “Keep ya head up.” – 2Pac
- “The world is yours.” – Nas
- “It was all a dream.” – The Notorious B.I.G.
- “I’m not afraid to die. I’m afraid not to try.” – Eminem
- “We gonna be alright.” – Kendrick Lamar
- “Roses are red, violets are blue, I’m schizophrenic, and so am I.” – Eminem
- “Life’s a bitch and then you die. That’s why we get high, ’cause you never know when you’re gonna go.” – Nas
- “I’d rather die enormous than live dormant.” – Jay-Z
- “The purpose of life, is a life of purpose.” – Kendrick Lamar
- “The game ain’t always fair, but you can’t let that stop you from playin’.” – Chance the Rapper
- “The key to immortality is first living a life worth remembering.” – Bruce Lee (sampled by Immortal Technique)
Female Forces: Best Quotes from Female Rappers
The world of hip-hop is not just dominated by men. Female rappers have also made significant contributions to the genre, offering unique perspectives and powerful lyrics. Here are some of the best quotes from female rappers:
- “I’m a boss, I’m a leader, I pull my own strings.” – Nicki Minaj
- “I’m not afraid to take a stand and speak my mind.” – Lauryn Hill
- “I’m a survivor, I’m not gon’ give up, I’m not gon’ stop, I’m gon’ work harder.” – Megan Thee Stallion
- “I’m a queen, and I demand to be treated as such.” – Lil’ Kim
- “I’m not perfect, but I’m perfectly me.” – Missy Elliott
- “I’m a diamond in the rough, a shining star.” – Queen Latifah
- “I’m a force to be reckoned with, a woman on a mission.” – Cardi B
- “I’m not afraid to be different, to stand out from the crowd.” – Eve
- “I’m a voice for the voiceless, a champion for the underdog.” – MC Lyte
- “I’m a role model, an inspiration to young women everywhere.” – Salt-N-Pepa
- “I’m breaking barriers, shattering ceilings, and paving the way for future generations.” – Lizzo
- “I’m a woman of substance, not just a pretty face.” – Rapsody
- “I’m a warrior, a fighter, a survivor.” – Remy Ma
- “I’m a dreamer, a visionary, a creator.” – Tierra Whack
- “I’m a woman, hear me roar!” – Missy Elliott
Up-and-Comers: Best Quotes from New Rappers
The hip-hop scene is constantly evolving, with new talent emerging all the time. Here are some of the best quotes from up-and-coming rappers who are making waves in the industry:
- “I’m not here to fit in, I’m here to stand out.” – Roddy Ricch
- “I’m not afraid to be vulnerable, to share my true self with the world.” – Billie Eilish
- “I’m a product of my environment, but I’m not defined by it.” – Lil Baby
- “I’m not just a rapper, I’m an artist, a creator.” – Doja Cat
- “I’m a voice for my generation, speaking truth to power.” – Noname
- “I’m not afraid to challenge the status quo, to push boundaries.” – Tierra Whack
- “I’m a student of the game, always learning and growing.” – DaBaby
- “I’m not in competition with anyone but myself.” – Polo G
- “I’m a dreamer, and I believe anything is possible.” – Lil Nas X
- “I’m not afraid to be myself, even if it means being different.” – Young M.A
- “I’m a voice for the voiceless, speaking up for those who can’t.” – Chika
- “I’m a survivor, and I’m here to stay.” – Megan Thee Stallion
- “I’m not afraid to take risks, to step outside my comfort zone.” – Rico Nasty
- “I’m a storyteller, sharing my experiences through my music.” – Cordae
- “I’m a beacon of hope, shining light in the darkness.” – Chance the Rapper
Best Quotes from Rappers Around the World
Hip-hop is a global phenomenon, with talented rappers emerging from every corner of the world. Here are some of the best quotes from international rappers:
- “I’m a voice for my country, representing my culture on the world stage.” – K’naan (Somalia)
- “I’m a bridge between cultures, connecting people through music.” – M.I.A. (Sri Lanka/UK)
- “I’m not afraid to challenge stereotypes and break down barriers.” – Orelsan (France)
- “I’m a storyteller, sharing the realities of my community through my lyrics.” – Akala (UK)
- “I’m a product of my struggles, but I’m also a symbol of hope.” – MHD (Guinea/France)
- “I’m a voice for the oppressed, speaking out against injustice.” – Lowkey (UK)
- “I’m a fusion of cultures, blending different sounds and styles.” – Niska (Congo/France)
- “I’m not afraid to experiment, to push the boundaries of hip-hop.” – Little Simz (UK)
- “I’m a poet, using words to paint pictures and evoke emotions.” – Kate Tempest (UK)
- “I’m a storyteller, weaving narratives that resonate with people from all walks of life.” – Loyle Carner (UK)
- “I’m a champion for social change, using my platform to make a difference.” – Ana Tijoux (Chile/France)
- “I’m a voice for the youth, representing the next generation.” – Stormzy (UK)
- “I’m a product of my heritage, but I’m also a citizen of the world.” – Kendrick Lamar (USA, referencing his African roots)
- “I’m not afraid to be political, to speak truth to power.” – Talib Kweli (USA)
- “I’m a bridge between the past and the future, honoring tradition while embracing innovation.” – Black Thought (USA)
Best Old School Rapper Quotes
Old school rappers laid the foundation for hip-hop, their lyrics remaining relevant and impactful to this day. Here are some of the best old school rapper quotes:
- “Don’t believe the hype.” – Public Enemy
- “Fight the Power.” – Public Enemy
- “It’s like that, and that’s the way it is.” – Run-DMC
- “Straight Outta Compton.” – N.W.A.
- “Yo! MTV Raps.” – Fab 5 Freddy
- “The Message.” – Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five
- “Rapper’s Delight.” – The Sugarhill Gang
- “Planet Rock.” – Afrika Bambaataa & Soulsonic Force
- “The Breaks.” – Kurtis Blow
- “Rock Box.” – Run-DMC
- “Walk This Way.” – Run-DMC & Aerosmith
- “My Adidas.” – Run-DMC
- “It Takes Two.” – Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock
- “Push It.” – Salt-N-Pepa
- “Me, Myself and I.” – De La Soul
What are some of the most famous rapper quotes?
Some of the most famous rapper quotes include
- “Get rich or die tryin'” by 50 Cent
- “Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems” by The Notorious B.I.G.
- “The world is yours” by Nas.
Bottom Line
The best rapper quotes offer a window into the minds of some of the most creative and influential artists of our time.
Their words can inspire, motivate, challenge, and uplift us. Whether you’re a lifelong hip-hop fan or simply appreciate the power of language, these quotes are sure to resonate with you.
So next time you’re looking for some words of wisdom or a dose of inspiration, turn to the best rapper quotes and let their rhymes guide you on your journey.
