I wasn't around for the birth of hip-hop, but as a child of the '80s, I was there for its commercial explosion—and what a time it was to be alive.

Run-D.M.C. brought with them a confidence and fashion sense ("My Adidas!") that showed aspiring artists it was possible to make a real career out of rap. LL Cool J kicked off what has now become a 40-year career (unbelievable!). Public Enemy brought to the masses the social and political consciousness that had been bubbling beneath the surface. EPMD ushered in a laid-back style that proved you didn't have to shout to command respect. Ice-T and N.W.A helped usher gangsta rap into the mainstream, while a certain '90s mogul who's currently away for a while (ahem...) and his label built an empire by sampling classics and bringing party rap to the forefront. Today, mumble rap dominates much of the mainstream (ugh... that's the "unc" in me talking), proving that the genre critics once dismissed as a passing fad continues to evolve.

There have been hundreds, if not thousands, of rappers throughout hip-hop's 50-plus-year history. What started in New York has grown into a global phenomenon. Love it or hate it, hip-hop—or at least the art of rapping—has embedded itself into cultures around the world. From reggaeton to K-pop, rap's influence is everywhere.

INTRODUCTION

Anyway, every once in a while, a rapper comes along and we're surprised to learn they're well below average height. So, we did a little digging and compiled a list of the 25 shortest rappers in the history of the genre. Without further delay, here are the 25 shortest rappers of all time.

EXCEPTIONALLY SHORT RAPPERS

1. BUSHWICK BILL – 3'8"

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Main Acts: Geto Boys
Record Label: Rap-A-Lot Records
Active Years: 1986–2019
Country: United States
Born: December 8, 1966

A pioneering figure in Southern hip-hop, Bushwick Bill became a founding member of the Geto Boys and helped establish Houston as an important center of rap music. He appeared on influential albums including Grip It! On That Other Level, We Can't Be Stopped, and The Resurrection. Known for his distinctive voice, dark storytelling, and unfiltered lyrics, Bushwick Bill became one of the most recognizable figures in hardcore hip-hop.

2. 42 DUGG – 5'1"

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Main Acts: 4PF, CMG
Record Label: Collective Music Group, 4PF
Active Years: 2017–Present
Country: United States
Born: November 25, 1995

42 Dugg emerged from Detroit's rap scene and gained national attention through his collaborations with Lil Baby and Yo Gotti. His breakthrough came with projects such as Young & Turnt and Free Dem Boyz, while his collaborations helped establish him as one of the most recognizable voices in contemporary street rap. Known for his distinctive delivery, melodic flow, and energetic performances, Dugg has become a prominent figure in modern hip-hop.

3. LIL CHUCKEE – 5'1"

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Main Acts: Young Money
Record Label: Young Money Entertainment, Cash Money Records
Active Years: 2009–Present
Country: United States
Born: October 1, 1999

Lil Chuckee gained recognition as one of the youngest artists associated with Lil Wayne's Young Money Entertainment. He appeared alongside major Young Money artists during the label's rise to prominence and released several mixtapes during his teenage years. Known for his youthful energy and rapid-fire delivery, Chuckee became part of an important period in Young Money's development and remains associated with the label's early roster.

See Also: Top 25 Short CEOS, Businessmen And Entreprenuers

VERY SHORT RAPPERS

4. EAZY-E – 5'3"

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Main Acts: N.W.A, Ruthless Records
Record Label: Ruthless Records
Active Years: 1986–1995
Country: United States
Born: September 7, 1963

A foundational figure in West Coast hip-hop, Eazy-E co-founded N.W.A and helped bring gangsta rap into the mainstream. His work on Straight Outta Compton and subsequent solo releases established him as one of the defining voices of late-1980s rap. As the founder of Ruthless Records, he also played a major role in launching the careers of several influential artists and shaping the sound of West Coast hip-hop.

5. PHIFE DAWG – 5'3"

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Main Acts: A Tribe Called Quest
Record Label: Jive Records
Active Years: 1985–2016
Country: United States
Born: November 20, 1970

A founding member of A Tribe Called Quest, Phife Dawg became one of the most respected lyricists of the golden age of hip-hop. His sharp delivery and conversational style complemented Q-Tip's production and helped define albums such as The Low End Theory and Midnight Marauders. Often celebrated for his wit, wordplay, and competitive spirit, Phife remains an influential figure in alternative and jazz-influenced hip-hop.

6. LIL UZI VERT – 5'4"

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Main Acts: Generation Now, Atlantic Records
Record Label: Generation Now, Atlantic Records
Active Years: 2013–Present
Country: United States
Born: July 31, 1995

Lil Uzi Vert became one of the defining artists of the modern rap era through a blend of hip-hop, emo, rock, and electronic influences. Their breakthrough mixtapes and albums, including Luv Is Rage 2 and Eternal Atake, produced major hits and helped reshape the sound of mainstream rap. Known for their melodic delivery, energetic performances, and distinctive visual style, Uzi has become one of hip-hop's most influential modern artists.

7. JERMAINE DUPRI – 5'4"

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Main Acts: So So Def Recordings
Record Label: So So Def Recordings, Columbia Records
Active Years: 1986–Present
Country: United States
Born: September 23, 1972

A highly influential producer, songwriter, and rapper, Jermaine Dupri helped shape Atlanta's emergence as a major force in hip-hop and R&B. Through So So Def Recordings, he worked with artists including Kris Kross, Da Brat, and Bow Wow while producing numerous successful records himself. His work as both a producer and performer earned him multiple Grammy Awards and established him as one of the most important figures in Southern music.

8. MADEINTYO – 5'4"

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Main Acts: Private Club Records
Record Label: Private Club Records, Commission Music
Active Years: 2014–Present
Country: United States
Born: April 12, 1992

MadeinTYO broke through with the 2016 hit "Uber Everywhere," which became a defining song of the internet-driven rap movement of the mid-2010s. His melodic delivery, minimalist production, and laid-back style helped him stand out among a new generation of artists emerging through SoundCloud and streaming platforms. He has continued releasing music through projects including Sincerely, Tokyo and Never Forgotten.

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SHORT RAPPERS

9. LIL WAYNE – 5'5"

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Main Acts: Young Money, Cash Money Records
Record Label: Cash Money Records, Young Money Entertainment, Republic Records
Active Years: 1995–Present
Country: United States
Born: September 27, 1982

One of the most influential rappers of his generation, Lil Wayne transformed the mixtape format and helped define mainstream hip-hop throughout the 2000s and 2010s. His landmark album Tha Carter III debuted at number one and earned multiple Grammy Awards, while his Young Money label helped launch the careers of Drake and Nicki Minaj. Known for his prolific output, inventive wordplay, and distinctive voice, Wayne is widely regarded as one of hip-hop's greatest lyricists.

10. TORY LANEZ – 5'5"

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Main Acts: One Umbrella
Record Label: Interscope Records, One Umbrella
Active Years: 2009–Present
Country: Canada
Born: July 27, 1992

Tory Lanez established himself as a versatile artist capable of moving between hip-hop, R&B, and melodic pop. His breakthrough came with the 2016 album I Told You, which included the hit single "Say It." Known for his rapping, singing, and production skills, Lanez has released numerous projects and collaborated with some of the biggest names in contemporary music.

11. PLIES – 5'5"

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Main Acts: Big Gates Records
Record Label: Atlantic Records, Big Gates Records
Active Years: 2004–Present
Country: United States
Born: July 1, 1976

Plies emerged from Fort Myers, Florida, and became one of the prominent voices in Southern hip-hop during the late 2000s. His debut album, The Real Testament, produced the hit singles "Shawty" and "Hypnotized," establishing him as a major commercial artist. Known for his gritty delivery and Southern storytelling, Plies has maintained a long career through albums, mixtapes, and collaborations with major artists.

12. KENDRICK LAMAR – 5'5"

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Main Acts: Top Dawg Entertainment, pgLang
Record Label: Top Dawg Entertainment, Aftermath Entertainment, Interscope Records
Active Years: 2003–Present
Country: United States
Born: June 17, 1987

Widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of his generation, Kendrick Lamar has earned widespread acclaim for his storytelling, social commentary, and intricate lyricism. Albums including good kid, m.A.A.d city, To Pimp a Butterfly, and DAMN. have become modern hip-hop landmarks, with DAMN. earning the Pulitzer Prize for Music. He has also won numerous Grammy Awards and established himself as one of the most influential artists in contemporary music.

13. JA RULE – 5'6"

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Main Acts: Murder Inc. Records
Record Label: Murder Inc. Records, Def Jam Recordings
Active Years: 1994–Present
Country: United States
Born: February 29, 1976

Ja Rule became one of the defining voices of mainstream hip-hop and R&B during the early 2000s. His work with Murder Inc. produced numerous platinum-selling albums and hit collaborations with artists including Jennifer Lopez, Ashanti, and Christina Milian. Known for blending rap verses with melodic hooks, Ja Rule helped define the sound of commercial hip-hop during one of the genre's most successful periods.

14. LIL JON – 5'6"

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Main Acts: Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz
Record Label: TVT Records, BME Recordings
Active Years: 1993–Present
Country: United States
Born: January 17, 1971

A central figure in the rise of crunk music, Lil Jon helped bring Atlanta's energetic club sound to a worldwide audience. His group Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz released major hits including "Get Low," while his production and collaborations with artists such as Usher and Ludacris expanded his influence beyond rap. Known for his booming delivery, energetic production, and unmistakable ad-libs, Lil Jon became one of the most recognizable personalities in hip-hop.

15. BIG BOI – 5'6"

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Main Acts: OutKast
Record Label: LaFace Records, RCA Records
Active Years: 1992–Present
Country: United States
Born: February 1, 1975

As one half of OutKast, Big Boi helped redefine Southern hip-hop alongside André 3000. The duo released landmark albums including ATLiens, Aquemini, and Stankonia, combining Southern rap with funk, soul, rock, and electronic influences. Big Boi has also enjoyed a successful solo career, earning recognition for his sharp lyricism, versatility, and distinctive Southern style.

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SLIGHTLY BELOW AVERAGE HEIGHT RAPPERS

16. BOW WOW – 5'6"–5'7"

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Main Acts: So So Def Recordings, Cash Money Records
Record Label: So So Def Recordings, Columbia Records, Cash Money Records
Active Years: 2000–Present
Country: United States
Born: March 9, 1987

Bow Wow became one of the most successful young rappers of the early 2000s after being discovered by Jermaine Dupri and signing with So So Def. His debut album, Beware of Dog, achieved platinum status and established him as a major teenage star. Over the years, he expanded into acting and television while continuing to release music and collaborate with prominent hip-hop and R&B artists.

17. TYGA – 5'7"

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Main Acts: Young Money, Last Kings Records
Record Label: Young Money Entertainment, Cash Money Records, Last Kings Music
Active Years: 2007–Present
Country: United States
Born: November 19, 1989

Tyga rose to prominence after signing with Young Money Entertainment and collaborating with artists including Lil Wayne and Drake. His breakthrough album Hotel California produced the hit single "Rack City," which became one of the biggest rap songs of the early 2010s. Known for his catchy hooks and commercially successful singles, Tyga has maintained a long presence in mainstream hip-hop.

18. MAC MILLER – 5'7"

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Main Acts: Rostrum Records, REMember Music
Record Label: Rostrum Records, Warner Bros. Records
Active Years: 2007–2018
Country: United States
Born: January 19, 1992

Mac Miller developed from a Pittsburgh mixtape artist into one of the most respected independent voices in modern hip-hop. His breakthrough album Blue Slide Park debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, while later projects such as Watching Movies with the Sound Off, GO AM, and Swimming demonstrated his growth as a rapper, producer, and songwriter. Celebrated for his versatility, introspective writing, and musical experimentation, Miller's influence has continued well beyond his lifetime.

19. TOO $HORT – 5'7"

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Main Acts: Dangerous Music, Jive Records
Record Label: Dangerous Music, Jive Records
Active Years: 1983–Present
Country: United States
Born: April 28, 1966

A foundational figure in West Coast hip-hop, Too $hort built his career through independent releases before becoming one of the most commercially successful rappers from the Bay Area. Albums such as Born to Mack, Short Dog's in the House, and Shorty the Pimp established his signature style and helped bring Oakland hip-hop to a national audience. With a career spanning more than four decades, he remains one of the longest-running artists in rap history.

20. DJ KHALED – 5'7"

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Main Acts: We the Best Music Group
Record Label: We the Best Music Group, Roc Nation
Active Years: 1998–Present
Country: United States
Born: November 26, 1975

DJ Khaled became one of hip-hop's most successful producers, executives, and media personalities through his ability to assemble major artists for high-profile collaborations. Albums including We the Best, Major Key, and Grateful produced numerous chart-topping singles, with Major Key earning the Grammy for Best Rap Album. Known for his distinctive production style, motivational persona, and extensive network throughout the music industry, Khaled has become one of hip-hop's most recognizable figures.

21. PITBULL – 5'7"

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Main Acts: Mr. 305 Inc., Polo Grounds Music
Record Label: TVT Records, Mr. 305 Records, RCA Records
Active Years: 2001–Present
Country: United States
Born: January 15, 1981

Pitbull transformed himself from a Miami underground rapper into an international music superstar. His breakthrough came through a combination of Southern hip-hop, Latin music, and dance-pop, producing global hits including "I Know You Want Me," "Give Me Everything," and "Timber." Known for his bilingual performances and crossover appeal, Pitbull has become one of the most successful Latin-influenced artists in mainstream music.

22. KODAK BLACK – 5'7"

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Main Acts: Sniper Gang
Record Label: Atlantic Records
Active Years: 2013–Present
Country: United States
Born: June 11, 1997

Kodak Black emerged from Pompano Beach, Florida, and became one of the most distinctive voices of his generation through his unconventional delivery and introspective songwriting. His breakout single "No Flockin" helped establish his reputation before albums such as Painting Pictures and Dying to Live brought him widespread commercial success. Known for his unique vocal style and deeply personal lyrics, Kodak has maintained a significant presence in contemporary hip-hop.

23. LIL PUMP – 5'7"

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Main Acts: Tha Lights Global
Record Label: Warner Bros. Records, Tha Lights Global
Active Years: 2015–Present
Country: United States
Born: August 17, 2000

Lil Pump became one of the leading figures of the late-2010s SoundCloud rap movement. His breakout single "Gucci Gang" became a worldwide hit and reached the top three of the Billboard Hot 100, helping propel his self-titled debut album to platinum status. Known for his energetic delivery, minimalist production, and internet-driven style, Lil Pump became a prominent figure in the generation that helped reshape how young artists reached mainstream audiences.

24. XXXTENTACION – 5'5"

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Main Acts: Members Only, Bad Vibes Forever
Record Label: Empire, Bad Vibes Forever
Active Years: 2013–2018
Country: United States
Born: January 23, 1998

XXXTENTACION became one of the most influential artists to emerge from the SoundCloud era, blending hip-hop with elements of rock, emo, R&B, and alternative music. His albums 17 and ? showcased a highly personal songwriting style, while his posthumously released album Skins became a major commercial success. Known for his emotional performances and willingness to experiment across genres, XXXTENTACION had a significant impact on the direction of modern hip-hop before his death in 2018.

25. SKI MASK THE SLUMP GOD – 5'7"

Illustration Credit: The Lower View

Main Acts: Members Only, Very Rare
Record Label: Republic Records, Victor Victor Worldwide
Active Years: 2015–Present
Country: United States
Born: April 18, 1996

Ski Mask the Slump God emerged alongside XXXTENTACION and became one of the most technically distinctive rappers of the SoundCloud generation. His rapid delivery, intricate wordplay, unconventional flows, and playful approach to production helped distinguish him from his contemporaries. Songs such as "Catch Me Outside" and "Nuketown" helped establish his mainstream profile, while his collaborations with XXXTENTACION and other artists cemented his place in the evolution of modern internet-driven hip-hop.

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CONCLUSION

I’ll admit that I’m no longer the mainstream Hip-Hop connoisseur I used to be, as taste can change as music evolves. I’ve always been more of a music production enthusiast, focused on arrangements, beats, cadences, and rhythmic flow. As many old fogies would attest, the proliferation of hi-hat rolls and triplet-laced mumble rap leaves a lot to be desired in the pop space—but, as mentioned, taste changes. I vividly remember hearing older contemporaries complain about the shift from the synth-heavy production of the Electro era to the sample-heavy production and politically focused themes of the late ’80s. There are plenty of underground artists, however, who continue to innovate and push music in new directions.

But do you notice something about this list? The vast majority of these artists are Millennials and Gen X. Is this a testament to society getting taller, or is mainstream hip-hop simply following broader cultural preferences when it comes to height? That remains to be seen. Until then, let us know about other rappers who are below the average height!

Like This Article? Chat About It And More On Our Forum For Shorter Men!

Line from the 1946 Movie, "The Big Sleep". Humphrey Bogart was 5'8 and notorious for wearing lifts and platforms in movies as he played leading roles often. 

Psy - 5'7 - Gangham Style (2 Billion Views)

Charlie Puth - 5'7 - See You Again (2 Billion Views)

Bruno Mars - 5'4 - Uptown Funk (2 Billion Views)

Justin Bieber - 5'7 - Love Yourself (1.8 Billion Views)

For me it would be MMA champion Demetrious Johnson who stood at 5'3. Really swell guy and down to earth. 

Gotta love Anime. They tend to portray short guys as the "cool underdog" unlike a lot of media in the west which portrays shorter guys as insecure, pathetic and unattractive. Mega points for this cool chart of their characters.