The Best Selling Hip-hop Artist in History – Ranked and Explained

Who is the best selling hip-hop artist of all time?

In this post, we’ll break it down with facts, not guesses. Also, we’ll explore numbers, major milestones, and what makes this artist different.

Let’s take a deep dive into the best selling hip-hop artist and what makes them earn this title.

What Makes a Hip-hop Artist “Best Selling”?

To be clear, we’re not just counting how many fans love an artist. Instead, we focus on:

• Total certified album and digital sales (US and worldwide)
• Billboard chart success
• Influence on hip-hop culture
• Streaming numbers on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube
• Longevity in the game

Many rappers have seen success, but only a few have gone above and beyond. So, who holds the crown?

The Answer: Eminem

Whether you’re a diehard fan or just learning about the genre, it’s impossible to deny that Eminem is the best selling hip-hop artist of all time.

With over 220 million records sold worldwide, his numbers speak for themselves. From his breakthrough in the late 1990s to his recent projects, Eminem has remained consistent.

And as a result of this, He sells big. He charts high. He dominates both albums and singles. That’s rare in hip-hop.

Why Eminem Stands Out

Eminem, also known as Marshall Mathers or Slim Shady, made history in 2000 with The Marshall Mathers LP.

The album sold 1.76 million copies in its first week, and it was the fastest-selling rap album at that time.

But it wasn’t just one album. Every project he dropped went platinum. His raw lyrics, emotional delivery, and unmatched rhyme schemes won him millions of fans.

It didn’t matter if, it was personal stories like (Cleaning Out My Closet), battle-ready tracks like (Rap God), or shocking storytelling like (Stan), Eminem kept evolving.

Streaming Success Still Matters

Some may argue that physical sales are outdated. That’s true. But even in the digital world, Eminem reigns. He consistently ranks in the top 5 streamed rappers on Spotify, beating out newer names like Travis Scott and Lil Baby.

As of 2025, Eminem averages over 70 million monthly listeners.

For a rapper whose debut was over 20 years ago, that’s not just impressive, it’s unheard of.

Not Just Sales – Cultural Impact

Most importantly, let’s not forget, the best selling hip-hop artist doesn’t only win on numbers. Influence matters too.

Eminem made it cool for white rappers to enter the game. He opened doors for artists like Mac Miller, G-Eazy, and Machine Gun Kelly. He also helped launch careers through his label, Shady Records, boosting stars like 50 Cent.

Even hip-hop legends like Jay-Z, Nas, and Dr. Dre have praised Eminem’s pen game and hustle. You can’t buy that kind of respect.

What About Other Contenders?

To be fair, several rappers deserve credit for their commercial success. Here’s a look at close runners-up:

1. Drake

With over 170 million records sold, Drake is the closest contender. He dominates streaming and has the most Billboard Hot 100 entries. His mix of rap and R&B gives him crossover appeal.

2. Kanye West

Kanye’s fashion empire and legendary albums (The College Dropout, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy) make him a hip-hop icon. He’s sold over 160 million records globally.

3. Jay-Z

The business mogul and lyrical genius has over 125 million records sold. His long career, Grammy wins, and influence are unmatched.

4. Nicki Minaj

As the highest-selling female rapper, Nicki has sold over 100 million units. Her loyal fanbase, called Barbz, keeps her trending at all times.

Still, none of these artists beat Eminem when you stack everything side by side.

Why Fans Still Love Him in 2025

Even in 2025, Eminem’s fans are loyal. Every time he drops a surprise album, it trends worldwide. Young fans admire his lyrics. Older fans respect his journey.

His honest songs about mental health, addiction, and family hit home for millions. Unlike artists who chase trends, Eminem tells his truth, which builds lasting trust.

10 Fun Facts About Eminem’s Success

1. He’s the first rapper to win an Academy Award (for Lose Yourself).

2. Recovery was the best-selling album in the world in 2010.

3. His YouTube channel has over 30 billion views.

4. He holds the Guinness World Record for most words in a hit single (Rap God).

5. He has 15 Grammy Awards and counting.

6. He was named Artist of the Decade (2000–2010) by Billboard.

7. His alter ego “Slim Shady” helped him express dark humor and raw emotion.

8. Eminem has a comic book, action figure, and a virtual concert experience.

9. His daughter, Hailie, has become a social media star.

10. He once rhymed 97 words in 15 seconds during a freestyle!

Once again, who takes the title of the best selling hip-hop artist?

The answer is loud and clear: Eminem.

He blends talent, emotion, and pure skill with numbers that blow past the competition.

Yes, other rappers are close.

Yes, hip-hop evolves fast.

But Eminem’s place in music history is rock solid.

He didn’t just break records—he reshaped the industry.

From Detroit’s gritty streets to world stages, the best selling hip-hop artist continues to inspire both new rappers and loyal fans. And while numbers tell part of the story, his impact speaks even louder.