Most Memorable Hip Hop Debuts

Rappers who made great first impressions.

Most Memorable Hip Hop Debuts - An artist's first impression may not define who they are, but it sure does leave a lasting mark. Although now preaching "No Guns Allowed," Snoop Dogg had a storied career as a gangsta rapper after debuting on "187." When Nas had his pre-Illmatic debut, he was heralded as the new Rakim (he still maintains that throne). And with Diddy's debut, he became known as the world's greatest hype man. Click on for more of the most memorable rap debuts.(Photos from left: Christopher Polk/Getty Images for Coachella, Dane Delaney / BET, Larry Busacca/Getty Images)
Nas - Nasty Nas was first introduced via Main Source's "Live at the Barbeque" track. The duo, comprised of Queens' Large Professor and Toronto's Sir Scratch, placed the song on their Breaking Atoms debut, which was lauded by rap listeners for its jazz and soul samples -- a fitting introduction for God's Son. Writers and fans praised Nas as the next Rakim, and both are still universally known as two of the most skilled and influential MCs of all time.(Photo: PA PHOTOS /LANDOV)
Rakim - Year of Honor: 2012  The Long Island emcee rose to fame during the golden era of hip hop and has influenced a generation of rappers that hope to achieve the success and respect that Rakim has over the past 27 years.There's no wonder why this "Paid In Full" lyricist has been named one of the greatest MCs of all time.(Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images)
Diddy - No, it's not a mirage, that really is Diddy pushing his AQUAhydrate water in the desert in a commercial for the four-door version of the Fiat while Pharrell's "Happy" adds some bass to the soundtrack.(Photo: Chris McKay/Getty Images for BET)Roxanne Shante - The Juice Crew affiliate first gained attention through the infamous Roxanne Wars in the mid-80s. (Photo: Ouzounova/Splash News)

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Nas - Nasty Nas was first introduced via Main Source's "Live at the Barbeque" track. The duo, comprised of Queens' Large Professor and Toronto's Sir Scratch, placed the song on their Breaking Atoms debut, which was lauded by rap listeners for its jazz and soul samples -- a fitting introduction for God's Son. Writers and fans praised Nas as the next Rakim, and both are still universally known as two of the most skilled and influential MCs of all time.(Photo: PA PHOTOS /LANDOV)

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