Rappers are known for their signature style and swagger, and many of them make their mark with iconic hairstyles, such as dreadlocks. Whether it’s Lil Wayne’s long dreads or Wiz Khalifa’s blonde ones, these hairdos have become synonymous with the individuals themselves, enhancing their persona and overall brand. But these rappers are not just about their looks; they have each made significant contributions to the world of hip hop, earning them a well-deserved spot in the annals of music history. Let’s delve into the stories of these rappers with dreads, celebrating their achievements, and their significant impact on the music scene.

List of 19 Best Rappers with Dreads

Rapper #1: Lil Wayne

Born as Dwayne Michael Carter Jr. on September 27, 1982, Lil Wayne hails from the vibrant city of New Orleans, United States. Known for his distinctive dreadlocks and a unique raspy voice, Wayne started his journey in music as a child prodigy, joining the hip hop collective, Hot Boys, at the tender age of 13. This group’s success acted as a launchpad for Wayne’s solo career, which would soon see him rising to become one of the best and most influential rappers of his generation.

Lil Wayne’s dreadlocks have become as famous as his music, influencing countless fans and other rappers to adopt the look. As one of the most successful hip hop artists, his creative lyrics, coupled with an innovative approach to rapping, have won him multiple awards, bolstering his status as an icon. His best-selling album, “Tha Carter III,” sold more than one million copies in its first week, demonstrating his remarkable commercial appeal.

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Rapper #2: T-Pain

T-Pain, or Faheem Rasheed Najm, was born on September 30, 1985, in Tallahassee, Florida, USA. Known for popularizing Auto-Tune in hip hop music, T-Pain’s signature dreadlocks have also garnered attention throughout his career. His dreads, usually tied up or let loose, have become an integral part of his public image, setting him apart from other artists.

With hit songs like “Buy U a Drank (Shawty Snappin’)” and “Bartender,” T-Pain quickly gained a reputation as one of the top rappers and music producers in the hip hop industry. The artist’s unique approach to music, often blending R&B with rap, has significantly influenced the genre’s direction. Moreover, his unorthodox but successful use of Auto-Tune has transformed the sound of modern hip hop, further solidifying his place in the music industry.

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Rapper #3: 2 Chainz

Tauheed Epps, better known by his stage name 2 Chainz, was born on September 12, 1977, in College Park, Georgia, USA. Famous for his vibrant persona and eccentric fashion sense, 2 Chainz’s dreadlocks have become a staple of his look. Whether he’s sporting them long or short, his dreads contribute to his unique and easily recognizable style.

2 Chainz’s rapping career kicked off with the southern hip hop duo Playaz Circle, which helped him establish his presence in the music scene. As a solo artist, his debut album, “Based on a T.R.U. Story,” topped the Billboard 200 chart, a testament to his success. His catchy, flamboyant lyrics and innovative beats have helped him carve out a niche for himself in the world of hip hop, with his music echoing in nightclubs and radio stations worldwide.

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Rapper #4: Lil Jon

Jonathan Mortimer Smith, aka Lil Jon, born on January 27, 1971, is a rapper and record producer from Atlanta, Georgia, USA. Known for his dreads, grills, and sunglasses, Lil Jon is one of the pioneers of the crunk genre, a style of Southern hip hop that emphasizes heavy bass and call-and-response vocals.

Lil Jon’s high-energy music, characterized by his distinctive shouts of “Yeah!”, “Okay!”, and “What?”, has made him a staple in clubs and party playlists. His best-known songs, such as “Get Low” with the East Side Boyz and “Turn Down for What” with DJ Snake, are prime examples of his music’s infectious energy. Lil Jon’s dreadlocks are an integral part of his image, a physical manifestation of his electrifying, larger-than-life persona.

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Rapper #5: Future

Nayvadius DeMun Wilburn, famously known as Future, was born on November 20, 1983, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. Future’s distinctive dreadlocks have become synonymous with his persona, and his evolving hairstyles, often dyed in different colors, have become a style statement among his fanbase.

Future’s unique blend of hip hop and trap music, punctuated by his signature use of Auto-Tune, has made him a recognizable figure in the music industry. His albums, such as “DS2” and “FUTURE,” have topped the charts, earning him a place among the most influential rappers of his generation. Known for his prolific output, Future’s knack for producing hit singles and albums has made him a dominant force in modern hip hop music.

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Rapper #6: Asap Rocky

Born on October 3, 1988, Rakim Athelaston Mayers, better known as Asap Rocky, hails from Harlem, New York, USA. Asap Rocky’s dreadlocks, styled in various ways throughout his career, have become a part of his stylish and fashion-forward persona.

From his debut mixtape, “Live. Love. A$AP,” to his chart-topping album, “Long. Live. A$AP,” Rocky’s music often reflects the grit and spirit of New York, combined with a unique, experimental approach to hip hop. His diverse influences range from southern rap to indie rock, which, when coupled with his fashion-forward image, have made him one of the most distinct and influential figures in the music industry.

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Rapper #7: J. Cole

Jermaine Lamarr Cole, known by his stage name J. Cole, was born on January 28, 1985, in Frankfurt, Germany, and later moved to the United States. Noted for his thought-provoking lyrics and storytelling prowess, J. Cole is often seen sporting his iconic dreadlocks, a hairstyle that has grown alongside his career, matching the maturation and evolution of his music.

J. Cole’s music has a conscious quality, tackling various societal and personal issues. His albums, such as “2014 Forest Hills Drive” and “KOD,” have received widespread acclaim for their lyrical depth and his distinctive rap style. As a rapper who writes and produces his music, J. Cole’s contributions to hip hop extend beyond his powerful lyrics, establishing him as one of the most respected figures in the music industry.

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Rapper #8: Wiz Khalifa

Cameron Jibril Thomaz, popularly known as Wiz Khalifa, was born on September 8, 1987, in Minot, North Dakota, USA. The rapper is known for his towering height, tattooed body, and of course, his trademark blonde dreadlocks. These long, luscious locks not only make him stand out but also complement his cool and laid-back persona.

Wiz Khalifa’s music, characterized by smooth flows, catchy hooks, and laid-back beats, reflects the same chilled-out vibe that he personifies. His breakthrough single “Black and Yellow” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, catapulting him to international fame. With a string of successful albums like “Rolling Papers” and “Blacc Hollywood”, Wiz has cemented his status as a prominent figure in hip hop.

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Rapper #9: Snoop Dogg

Born as Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. on October 20, 1971, Snoop Dogg hails from Long Beach, California, USA. Famous for his smooth rapping style and laid-back persona, Snoop’s ever-changing hairstyles have seen him sporting everything from braids to a ‘fro, and, of course, his iconic dreadlocks.

Snoop Dogg’s debut album “Doggystyle” shot to the top of the Billboard 200 chart upon its release in 1993, and has since been recognized as one of the most important albums in hip hop history. His unique style of rapping, often featuring clever wordplay and a casual delivery, coupled with his signature G-funk sound, has made him a legend in the world of hip hop.

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Rapper #10: Young Thug

Jeffery Lamar Williams, known as Young Thug, was born on August 16, 1991, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. His dreadlocks, sometimes colored and often styled in unique ways, are a signature aspect of his image, contributing to his reputation as a style icon within the hip hop scene.

Young Thug’s eccentric and innovative approach to music, characterized by his unique vocal style and diverse range of influences, has established him as a significant figure in modern hip hop. His mixtapes, such as “Barter 6” and “Slime Season,” have been praised for their creativity and originality, while his debut album, “So Much Fun,” topped the Billboard 200, solidifying his standing in the industry.

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Rapper #11: Busta Rhymes

Born as Trevor George Smith Jr. on May 20, 1972, in Brooklyn, New York, USA, Busta Rhymes is known for his fast rapping style, larger-than-life personality, and his dreadlocks. His iconic hairstyle, often seen in his earlier career, became a significant aspect of his image.

Busta Rhymes’ music is characterized by its high energy, innovative rhythms, and intricate lyrics. His breakout solo album, “The Coming,” featured the hit single “Woo Hah!! Got You All In Check,” demonstrating his impressive lyrical speed and unique style. Over the years, Busta Rhymes has consistently proven his skill and versatility, collaborating with a wide range of artists and continuously reinventing his sound.

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Rapper #12: Travis Scott

Jacques Bermon Webster II, better known as Travis Scott, was born on April 30, 1992, in Houston, Texas, USA. Known for his high-energy performances and auto-tuned vocals, Travis Scott’s signature braided dreadlocks have become a part of his persona.

Travis Scott’s music is known for its cinematic quality, featuring atmospheric beats and layered production. His albums, like “Rodeo” and “Astroworld,” showcase his ability to create a cohesive musical experience, earning him critical and commercial success. As a figure at the forefront of hip hop’s new wave, Travis Scott has managed to carve out a unique spot for himself in the industry.

Rapper #13: Post Malone

Austin Richard Post, popularly known as Post Malone, was born on July 4, 1995, in Syracuse, New York, USA. Post Malone, who rose to fame with his genre-blending music, wore dreadlocks in the early stages of his career, contributing to his distinctive look.

Post Malone’s music combines elements of hip hop, rock, and pop, creating a unique sound that has won him a diverse fanbase. His debut single “White Iverson” brought him into the spotlight, and since then, albums like “Stoney” and “Beer Bongs & Bentleys” have solidified his position in the music world. His catchy hooks, relatable lyrics, and unique musical style have made him a standout artist in the current musical landscape.

Rapper #14: Chief Keef

Keith Farrelle Cozart, known by his stage name Chief Keef, was born on August 15, 1995, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Known for his dreadlocks and his influential role in popularizing drill music, a hardcore subgenre of hip hop, Chief Keef has left a lasting impact on the music scene.

With his raw storytelling and gritty beats, Chief Keef’s music encapsulates the harsh realities of life in Chicago’s South Side. His debut album “Finally Rich” features hit singles like “I Don’t Like” and “Love Sosa,” which played a major role in bringing drill music to a mainstream audience. Chief Keef’s music and image have influenced a whole generation of rappers, securing his place in hip hop history.

Rapper #15: Lil Uzi Vert

Born as Symere Woods on July 31, 1994, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, Lil Uzi Vert is a rapper known for his eclectic style and energetic performances. His dreadlocks, often dyed in various bright colors, reflect his vibrant and unconventional persona.

Lil Uzi Vert’s music blends elements of trap and emo rap, often featuring dark and atmospheric beats. His album “Luv Is Rage 2” debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and included the hit single “XO TOUR Llif3.” Known for his infectious melodies and unique vocal style, Lil Uzi Vert’s innovative approach to hip hop has earned him a loyal following and critical acclaim.

Rapper #16: Wale

Olubowale Victor Akintimehin, known as Wale, was born on September 21, 1984, in Washington, D.C., USA. Known for his lyricism and fusion of different genres in his music, Wale’s dreadlocks have been a part of his image since the beginning of his career.

Wale’s music often reflects his Nigerian heritage and his upbringing in Washington D.C., incorporating elements of go-go, a popular music genre in D.C. His albums like “Ambition” and “The Gifted” have reached the top of the Billboard 200, showcasing his lyrical prowess and his knack for creating catchy hooks. As a rapper with a distinctive voice and style, Wale has left a significant mark on hip hop.

Rapper #17: Ludacris

Born as Christopher Brian Bridges on September 11, 1977, in Champaign, Illinois, USA, Ludacris is known for his fast-paced rapping style and humorous lyrics. His signature afro was replaced with dreadlocks in recent years, adding a new look to his persona.

Ludacris’ music, known for its infectious energy and witty lyrics, has earned him widespread recognition. His album “Word of Mouf” and “Chicken-n-Beer” peaked at the top of the Billboard 200, securing his place as one of hip hop’s top rappers. Whether it’s his music or his acting career, Ludacris has consistently proven his versatility and talent.

Rapper #18: Ace Hood

Antoine McColister, known as Ace Hood, was born on May 11, 1988, in Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA. His long dreadlocks complement his style and persona. His look is as hard-hitting and intense as the music he creates.

Ace Hood’s music is characterized by hard-hitting beats, catchy hooks, and raw storytelling. His albums “Gutta” and “Blood, Sweat & Tears” have showcased his lyrical prowess and ability to create captivating tunes. Whether he’s talking about his struggles or his triumphs, Ace Hood’s authenticity shines through his music, making him a respected figure in the hip hop world.

Rapper #19: Lil Pump

Gazzy Garcia, known professionally as Lil Pump, was born on August 17, 2000, in Miami, Florida, USA. Known for his colorful personality and outlandish fashion choices, Lil Pump’s dreadlocks, often dyed different colors, are a major part of his image.

Lil Pump rose to fame with his hit single “Gucci Gang,” which peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. His self-titled debut album further cemented his status in the hip hop scene. Known for his repetitive hooks and boisterous persona, Lil Pump represents the new generation of SoundCloud rappers who have taken the music industry by storm.

Frequently Asked Question About Rappers with Dreads?

1. What rapper made dreads popular?

Bob Marley, though not a rapper but a reggae legend, popularized dreadlocks worldwide. In the context of hip hop, many rappers have worn dreads, but Lil Wayne is one of the most influential figures who popularized the hairstyle in the genre.

2. Why do rappers wear dreads?

Many rappers wear dreads as a symbol of cultural or personal identity. For some, it’s a nod to their African or Rastafarian roots, while for others, it’s a statement of rebellion or individuality.

3. What singer is famous for dreadlocks?

Bob Marley, a reggae artist, is arguably the most famous musician associated with dreadlocks. In the rap industry, artists like Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg, and Wiz Khalifa are renowned for their dreads.

4. Who had dreads in the 90s?

The 90s saw various artists sport dreads, including but not limited to Busta Rhymes, Lil Jon, and the members of the hip hop group Cypress Hill.

5. Are dreads a religion?

While not a religion themselves, dreadlocks are significant in certain religions and cultures. In Rastafarianism, for instance, they signify a spiritual journey and are seen as a biblical commandment.

6. Are dreadlocks good or bad?

The value judgment on dreadlocks is subjective and depends on personal and cultural perspectives. They’re often celebrated for their cultural significance and aesthetics, but have also faced criticism and prejudice.

7. Are dreadlocks Indian or African?

Dreadlocks have historical roots in various cultures worldwide, including African, Indian, and even Ancient Greek and Norse cultures. The tradition of dreadlocks is especially prominent in Indian ascetic groups and African tribes.

8. Do dreadlocks look good on anyone?

Dreadlocks can look good on anyone, depending on the person’s style and how they’re maintained. Like any hairstyle, dreads can be tailored to suit different face shapes, hair types, and personal aesthetics.

9. Who has the longest dreads ever?

The Guinness World Record for the longest dreadlocks belongs to Asha Mandela, with locks measuring an impressive 110 feet long.

10. How long do dreadlocks last?

With proper care, dreadlocks can last a lifetime. They continue to mature and tighten over time, and the length can be managed by trimming.