Finding the GOAT: Phonte vs. Malice…Who You Got?
As we continue the ultimate battle for the title of the GOAT (Greatest of All-Time), we are asking you to help us rank who is the greatest MC to pick up a mic. We will take over 35 years of Hip-Hop into consideration, pairing special match-ups in a sequence not unlike March Madness. For the next several months, we will roll out battles, starting with artists from similar eras paired against one another, until one undisputed King or Queen of the microphone reigns supreme.
The next two MCs for consideration may be two of Hip-Hop’s most underrated: Little Brother’s Phonte and The Clipse’s Malice. Perhaps they don’t enter the discussion for the GOAT too often because they were members of groups or perhaps it’s their no nonsense approach. Regardless, each consistently murders mics. Check out a recap of both MCs’ careers below and then weigh in with your vote.
Phonte
Hailing from North Carolina, Phonte, along with Rapper Big Pooh and producer extraordinaire 9th Wonder, formed Little Brother. Their debut album The Listening was one of Hip-Hop’s most celebrated in 2003. With his no nonsense approach, Phonte’s subject matter ranged from trying to figure out how to maintain a happy home with his family to his fierce and protective love of the culture. After releasing 4 albums and 6 mixtapes with Little Brother, Phonte continues releasing music, both as a solo artist and as part of The Foreign Exchange with producer Nicolay.
See: “G.I.M.M.E.” (1999), “Intergalactic Soul” (2004), “Nic’s Groove” (2004)
Malice
As part of Virginia duo The Clipse with brother Pusha T, Malice was one of the most menacing voices on wax. He used his steely flow to paint vivid and unflinching depictions of life in the cocaine game. After leaving The Clipse in 2010, Malice embraced Christianity and changed his name to No Malice. While he still raps, his subject matter is radically different as he puts forth a faith-based message.
See: “Virginia” (2002), “Popular Demand” (2009), “Grindin'” (2002)
So…who you got?
Voting For Round 1 is now closed. Stay up to date with the latest Finding The GOAT brackets
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