Maino Rips Complex For Leaving Kool G Rap Off NYC Rap List

Brooklyn rapper Maino is pushing back against Complex’s recently released Top 50 Greatest New York City Rappers of All-Time list after noticing one name missing from the ranking: Kool G Rap.

In a viral video posted on May 29, Maino questioned how one of hip-hop’s most influential lyricists could be excluded from a list celebrating New York rap greatness. The veteran MC argued that Kool G Rap’s impact on the genre extends far beyond album sales, chart positions, or mainstream visibility.

“This one guy is the godfather of New York City street rap,” Maino said. “There’s not one artist in New York City that’s never inspired by Kool G Rap.”

The comments quickly resonated across social media, where many hip-hop fans echoed his frustration. For decades, Kool G Rap has been regarded as one of rap’s most technically gifted writers.

Emerging from Queens during hip-hop’s golden era, he helped pioneer the vivid street storytelling. His intricate rhyme structures and crime-focused narratives later became staples of East Coast rap.

Before Nas, Jay-Z, and 50 Cent dominated the culture, Kool G Rap was crafting cinematic tales that influenced an entire generation.

Brooklyn Rapper Maino Slams Complex For Exclusion Of Kool G Rap From Greatest NYC Rapper List

Maino suggested that the omission reflects a larger problem with all-time rankings. In his view, lists often prioritize commercial success and popularity over artistic influence and cultural significance.

“I never seen a list that ever had Kool G Rap,” Maino said, expressing disbelief at what he sees as a recurring oversight.

While Kool G Rap never achieved the commercial heights of some rap superstars, his influence remains widely acknowledged. Many credit him with helping shape the lyrical style that became synonymous with New York street rap.

Maino closed his argument by emphasizing the respect Kool G Rap commands within the culture.

“Everybody listens to him knows how much he meant to the culture,” he said.

The debate has since reignited discussions about how hip-hop history should be measured. For Maino, the issue goes beyond rankings.

His comments educate hip-hop fans on the foundational figures like Kool G Rap. The comments recognize the blueprint that countless New York rappers later followed.