ShowSpeed’s Top 5 Rappers List Starts With Eminem

Few entertainers in today’s digital era embody ambition, persistence, and charisma quite like IShowSpeed. From humble beginnings streaming to only a couple of viewers to now commanding an audience of more than 40 million across platforms, Speed has built himself into one of the internet’s most recognizable personalities. And in his latest U.S. tour, he’s putting the spotlight not just on himself, but also on the music that fuels his journey.

When asked about his top 5 rappers, Speed didn’t hesitate to name his number one: Eminem. The choice highlights both Eminem’s lasting cultural impact and Speed’s admiration for the Detroit legend. The rest of his list included Kanye West, Drake, J. Cole, and Tyler, the Creator—five names that represent different generations and sounds of hip-hop, but all carrying undeniable influence.

In this article, we’ll break down the story of Speed’s latest declaration, explore why Eminem continues to resonate with younger generations, and take a closer look at the rest of Speed’s handpicked list of rap icons.

IShowSpeed’s Rise From Bedroom Streams to Global Fame

To understand why Speed’s opinion carries weight, you have to appreciate his trajectory. He began his streaming journey at the young age of 12, broadcasting to just two viewers. Over time, through sheer energy, humor, and unfiltered moments, Speed captured the attention of millions.

Now at only 20 years old, he has transformed into a multimedia star, partnering with organizations like UEFA, appearing with international athletes, and creating viral internet moments almost weekly.

This backdrop makes his choice of Eminem as his number one rapper more than just a fan pick—it’s an acknowledgment from one cultural phenomenon to another.

Why Eminem Sits at the Top of IShowSpeed’s List

Eminem, also known as Slim Shady, has been a dominant force in hip-hop since the late 1990s. With classics like The Marshall Mathers LP, The Eminem Show, and hits such as “Lose Yourself,” Eminem redefined rap with his lyrical precision, emotional depth, and mainstream appeal.

For IShowSpeed, Eminem’s artistry represents more than nostalgia. On his recent U.S. tour, Speed visited Detroit, blasting Eminem’s tracks in the car, rapping along in the streets, and even cruising through Marshall Mathers’ old neighborhood. This was not a gimmick for content—it was a heartfelt nod to his favorite artist.

Speed has frequently expressed his dream of collaborating with or even just streaming alongside Eminem. He once slid into Em’s direct messages, asking for a callback, and often tells fans: “I’mma get that soon. I’mma get an Eminem stream, don’t worry.”

His fans rally behind him, spamming chats and comment sections with calls for a Speed–Eminem collab, proving that Slim Shady’s name still holds enormous power in today’s internet culture.

The Rest of IShowSpeed’s Top 5 Rappers

While Eminem leads the pack, Speed’s complete list offers insight into the music shaping his perspective.

Kanye West

Kanye West, known for his innovation and controversial genius, was Speed’s second pick. From The College Dropout to My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Kanye has consistently pushed the boundaries of rap and fashion. His inclusion shows Speed’s appreciation for artistry that breaks convention.

Drake

No modern rapper has dominated the charts like Drake. With countless number-one hits, Drake has defined what it means to be a crossover superstar. For Speed, Drake’s presence in his list reflects admiration for consistency, relatability, and sheer cultural dominance.

J. Cole

Known for his storytelling and reflective lyrics, J. Cole represents the voice of authenticity in hip-hop. From 2014 Forest Hills Drive to The Off-Season, Cole’s work resonates with audiences looking for depth in their rap music. Speed’s choice of J. Cole shows that lyrical honesty matters to him.

Tyler, the Creator

Rounding out Speed’s top 5 is Tyler, the Creator, an artist who began as an underground disruptor with Odd Future and has since evolved into a Grammy-winning musician. Tyler’s ability to reinvent himself musically and stylistically makes him an inspiring figure for Speed and countless young fans.

Eminem’s Relevance to a New Generation

What’s fascinating about IShowSpeed’s declaration is what it reveals about Eminem’s enduring influence. For some, Eminem is a legendary figure of the past, but Speed proves otherwise. For millions of younger fans, Eminem isn’t a relic—he’s still a go-to artist, a source of inspiration, and the standard of lyrical excellence.

Relevance today isn’t measured in hashtags or viral clips alone—it’s measured in cultural impact. Eminem continues to inspire new rappers, streamers, and influencers, proving his longevity in an industry known for short attention spans.

Speed’s Confidence in Making His Dreams a Reality

What sets Speed apart is not just his admiration for these artists, but his confidence that he can connect with them. Many might dismiss his dream of streaming with Eminem as far-fetched. But considering his journey—from two viewers to global stardom—it’s hard to doubt him.

This belief is part of Speed’s appeal. He embodies the idea that no dream is too wild, no collaboration too impossible. His ability to manifest these big moments keeps fans engaged and invested in his story.

The Cultural Significance of IShowSpeed’s Top 5 Rappers

By naming Eminem, Kanye West, Drake, J. Cole, and Tyler, the Creator, Speed created a list that spans generations, styles, and messages within hip-hop. Each of these artists represents a different lane of influence:

• Eminem: lyrical mastery and cultural legacy.

• Kanye West: innovation and boundary-pushing creativity.

• Drake: consistency and commercial dominance.

• J. Cole: authenticity and storytelling.

• Tyler, the Creator: reinvention and artistic freedom.

Together, they highlight what makes hip-hop so diverse and globally impactful.

Conclusion: Eminem Remains the Benchmark

IShowSpeed’s top 5 rappers list starting with Eminem is more than a fan’s ranking—it’s a reflection of cultural relevance across generations. Eminem continues to stand as a benchmark of excellence, even for fans born years after his breakout success.

Speed’s love for Eminem shows that the Detroit rapper’s music still resonates, inspires, and motivates. At the same time, the inclusion of Kanye, Drake, J. Cole, and Tyler, the Creator underscores the richness of hip-hop today.

As Speed continues to chase his dreams, from streaming milestones to potential collaborations, one thing is clear: his passion for rap is genuine, and his acknowledgment of Eminem as the greatest in his eyes solidifies Slim Shady’s enduring legacy.

For fans of both IShowSpeed and hip-hop, this moment is another reminder that music transcends generations—and that Eminem’s voice still echoes loudly in 2025.