9. 2 Chainz
2 Chainz should probably write a book on re-branding. He changed the course of his career after changing his name from Tity Boi to 2 Chainz. In 2012, his career took off with the release of “Spend It,” his affiliation with Kanye West and his debut solo album, Based On A T.R.U. Story. His place as a top pop culture figure was cemented with a recent appearance on a “Saturday Night Live” skit.
8. Kilo Ali
Eight years before OutKast released their debut, Kilo Ali was Atlanta’s favorite rapper. He never gained prominence outside of the South, but his bass music anthems were essential for Atlanta-based strip clubs and skating rinks during the late ’80s and ’90s. Every Atlanta rapper on this list was inspired by Kilo at some point.
