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By: Mike McLaughlin
Published Jul 24, 2023
In the world of hip-hop, style and self-expression go hand in hand. One of the most iconic and recognizable hairstyles among rappers is dreadlocks. When it comes to artistic expression artists from all genres often use their style and their hair choices as extensions of that expression. Sporting dreadlocks, or dreads, has been a popular choice among many hip-hop artists, each making the style their own in a unique way. Not only are dreads a fire look, but they also carry immense cultural significance to many in the Black community. At this point, there have been so many rappers with dreads, we have to talk about the most iconic. Let's check out these 28 famous rappers with dreads.
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28. Fetty Wap
Kicking off our list, we've got a Jersey legend, Fetty Wap, who's been a prominent figure in the trap music scene since the mid-2010s. His short, dreadlocks are as much a part of his brand as his unique singing-rapping style.
27. Future
Future's influential trap sound is complemented by his eye-catching and ever-evolving dreadlocks.
26. Snoop Dogg
After years of rocking cornrows, Snoop Dogg switch it up and locked his hair in the 2010s.
25. 21 Savage
Known for his gritty and distinctive voice and storytelling abilities, 21 Savage's dreadlocks add to his unique image.
24. J. Cole
A revered lyricist and conscious rapper, J. Cole's dreads reflect his grounded persona.
23. Ace Hood
Ace Hood's sharp and confident flow is matched by his signature dreadlock style.
22. XXXTentacion
Before his untimely passing, XXXTentacion's unconventional dreadlock style was emblematic of his boundary-pushing artistry.
21. Lil Pump
Lil Pump colorful dreadlocks have become one of the most distinguishable styles in hip hop. Fans and even search for ways to emulate his look.
20. Gunna
Just like Gunna is known for his distinct melodic style and Atlanta swag, he’s synonymous with his dreads.
19. Polo G
Platinum rap star Polo G’s dreadlocks are not just a part of his personal style, but a significant aspect of his image.
18. Wale
Wale’s signature hairstyle complimented his versatile styles and flows.
17. 2 Chainz
16. Lil Durk
15. Lil Baby
14. Jay-Z
13. Wiz Khalifa
Wiz Khalifa's laid-back style and flowing dreads perfectly complement his laid-back and authentic approach to hip-hop.
12. Playboi Carti
Playboi Carti's edgy and experimental style is reflected in his ever-changing dreadlock looks.
11. Meechy Darko
As part of the rap group Flatbush Zombies, Meechy Darko is known for his unique voice and dark lyrics. His wild, unruly dreads have become as iconic as his unique voice in the hip-hop scene. Though he doesn't rock them at the moment, we'll always remember this iconic stage of his career, which came alongside some of the most prolific Flatbush Zombies releases.
10. Denzel Curry
Denzel Curry is known for his quickfire rapping style and deep, introspective lyrics. His dreads have evolved through his career, just like he has himself. As his skills grow more refined by the year, he experiments with different stylistic approaches to his unforgettable hair.
9. Ski Mask the Slump God
Known for his fast-paced flow and playful lyrics, Ski Mask The Slump God has a distinctive style in the rap scene. His dreadlocks have been seen styled in a variety of ways to complement his brand, just like a few other rappers you'll read about on this list.
8. Takeoff
As a member of the trio Migos, Takeoff was known for his rapid-fire flow and cunning bars. His neat, long dreads complemented his laid-back persona and were an integral part of his style. He became a legend for much more than his hair, but absolutely deserved a spot on our list. Rest in peace to a legend engrained in rap history.
7. King Von
Known for his storytelling abilities in his lyrics, King Von was a prominent figure in the drill music scene. His dreadlocks were a significant part of his image, which further embedded him as one of the memorable rappers with dreads. Rest in peace, King Von - the hip-hop world misses you.
6. Trippie Redd
This Ohio native is known for his emotional lyrics and genre-blending style. Trippie Redd's dreads, usually dyed red, have become a part of his brand, reflecting his raw and emotive music.
5. Lil Uzi Vert
Known for his eccentric style and voice, Lil Uzi Vert is one of the leading figures in the "SoundCloud rap" scene. His dreadlocks, often dyed in bright colors, are reflective of his vibrant and quirky persona.
4. Waka Flocka Flame
Known for his high-energy performances, Waka Flocka Flame's dreads have become part of his onstage persona. His dreadlocks are often seen flying in the air as he jumps around, matching his energetic stage presence.
3. Young Thug
Young Thug's dreads have become a symbol of his unconventional style in the rap industry. His multi-colored dreads, often styled in different ways, reflect his diverse musical influences and daring approach to fashion (like the Jeffery album cover, for example).
2. Lil Wayne
This Louisiana-born rapper is nearly as famous for his music as he is for his long, freeform dreads. Lil Wayne's dreadlocks have transformed over the years, just like his music, making him an iconic figure among rappers with dreads.
1. Chief Keef
This Chicago native is known for his role in popularizing drill music. Chief Keef's dreads are a signature part of his style, often colored or beaded, mirroring his experimental approach to his music.
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