Death Row Family vs. YMCMB: The Greatest Rap Crew Competition
In recognition of Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary, BET Digital, in partnership with Ambrosia For Heads, is celebrating the culture by hosting a bracket-style competition that allows you to determine Hip-Hop’s greatest crew.
Rather than having “experts” tell you who is the greatest of all-time, this is your opportunity to collectively make that decision. After giving the opportunity to any and all fans to provide feedback on which crews should be included, 32 collectives from different regions, styles, and generations have been selected—all vying for that #1 spot. When the final battle is over and the last vote is cast, you will have determined who is your Greatest Rap Crew of All Time. After the regional winners were determined, voters must decide who reaches the title round in this semifinal matchup.
DEATH ROW FAMILY VS. YMCMB
The Round 4 semifinal sees a clash of regional leaders from the West Coast and Dirty South. The Death Row Family has fought off execution—defeating TDE, N.W.A. & The Possé, and the Hieroglyphics crew to reach this point. They meet a major force in YMCMB, who has already bested So So Def, the No Limit Soldiers, and T.I.’s Grand Hustle. Notably, the Cash Money movement took shape right as Death Row’s run was halted by tragedies, and incarceration. In the years since, Snoop Dogg and Lil Wayne have collaborated, along with ties to Drake, Juvenile, and Tyga. Dr. Dre produced a single for Mack 10’s days running with the YMCMR crew. There was also a time in the early 2000s, where Juvy reportedly spent weeks working with The Death Row Family. Birdman has publicly stated that he modeled his Black-owned empire after Death Row, while the YMCMB reign has arguably outlasted Tha Row’s initial run—though Snoop Dogg’s acquisition may change the forecast. This semi-final matchup sets the table for great debate, as only one of these crews can go forth.
Go to BET.com to vote on which of these crews you believe should advance to the championship round, and to learn of the other crews that are battling in this round. You can also vote on Twitter and Instagram, using the hashtag #BETGreatestRapCrew and a hashtag with your favorite crew.