India’s hip-hop scene has grown tremendously over the years, giving rise to a vibrant community of rappers. But in 2020, who truly stood out as the No. 1 rapper in India? This question has sparked countless debates among fans and music critics alike. In this blog, we will explore the Indian rap industry, the artists who made waves, and the rapper who claimed the crown in 2020.
The Rise of Indian Hip-Hop
Indian hip-hop was once a niche genre, but over the last decade, it has become mainstream. Bollywood’s embrace of rap, combined with platforms like YouTube and streaming services, has given many artists the chance to shine. Songs with hard-hitting lyrics, relatable themes, and catchy beats have captured the hearts of millions.
Rappers like Divine, Naezy, Raftaar, Badshah, and Emiway Bantai have been instrumental in popularizing the genre. Each of them has a unique style and a loyal fan base, making it tough to determine who holds the No. 1 spot.
Criteria for Being No. 1
When discussing who the No. 1 rapper in India was in 2020, several factors come into play:
- Skill and Lyricism: Does the artist have meaningful lyrics and a unique flow?
- Popularity: How big is their fan base, and how well-received is their music?
- Impact: Has the artist influenced the culture and brought something new to the table?
- Commercial Success: Chart-topping songs and brand collaborations are also crucial.
Top Contenders for the Title
1. Divine
Divine, whose real name is Vivian Fernandes, emerged from the streets of Mumbai to become a household name. Known for hits like Mere Gully Mein and Jungli Sher, Divine’s raw storytelling resonates with listeners. His 2020 album Punya Paap was a massive success and showcased his growth as an artist.
2. Naezy
Naved Shaikh, aka Naezy, is often credited with sparking India’s rap revolution. His life story inspired the Bollywood film Gully Boy. Though he took a step back from the limelight in 2020, his influence on the industry remained strong.
3. Emiway Bantai
With a fan base that spans across India and beyond, Emiway Bantai is one of the most consistent rappers in the scene. Known for tracks like Machayenge and Firse Machayenge, Emiway had a prolific 2020, dropping numerous singles and collaborating with international artists.
4. Raftaar
Raftaar, known for his versatility, seamlessly blends rap with mainstream Bollywood music. His 2020 releases, including Drama and GOAT, kept him in the spotlight. Raftaar’s ability to balance commercial appeal with meaningful lyrics is unmatched.
5. Badshah
While some argue that Badshah’s music leans more towards pop than rap, his contribution to the industry is undeniable. With chart-topping tracks and a knack for creating viral hits, Badshah had another stellar year in 2020.
Why Divine Stood Out in 2020
After analyzing the achievements of various artists, Divine emerges as the No. 1 rapper in India in 2020. Here’s why:
- Punya Paap’s Success: Divine’s album Punya Paap dominated streaming platforms and received critical acclaim. Tracks like Mirchi and Satya showcased his versatility.
- International Recognition: Divine’s collaborations with international artists like Nas brought Indian rap to a global audience.
- Consistency: Unlike some rappers who slowed down, Divine kept releasing high-quality music throughout 2020.
The Fans’ Verdict
Fans play a crucial role in determining the No. 1 rapper. Social media platforms were abuzz with debates, with hashtags like #DivineNo1 and #EmiwayRules trending regularly. While Emiway’s fans argued for his dominance, the critical acclaim received by Divine tipped the scales in his favor.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Indian Rap
As Indian rap continues to evolve, the competition to be No. 1 will only intensify. Emerging artists like KR$NA, Dino James, and Prabh Deep are already making their mark. Meanwhile, established stars are constantly reinventing themselves to stay relevant.
Conclusion
So, who is the No. 1 rapper in India in 2020? Based on skill, impact, and popularity, Divine takes the crown. However, the beauty of hip-hop lies in its diversity, and every artist brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re a fan of Divine’s storytelling, Emiway’s energy, or Raftaar’s versatility, there’s no denying that Indian rap is here to stay.
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