As we cast our minds to 2022, we remember a time when Kanye West, never one to shy away from expressing his thoughts, voiced displeasure about his placement as number seven on MTV’s Hottest MC in the Game list. Now in 2025, as we see the rise of new talents and Kanye’s steady presence in the industry, the discourse his position on the list continues to be relevant. This throwback offers a glimpse into Kanye’s mindset, his passion for his craft, and his unwavering belief in his worth as an -on-bet” target=”_blank”>. It also prompts us to reflect on how rankings and lists influence our perception of , their work, and their impact on the industry.
Kanye’s Reaction to MTV’s List
Kanye made headlines when he publicly questioned his number 7 position on the MTV’s Hottest MC in the Game list in 2022. Kanye, who rarely interacts with the media, called into Hot 97 to discuss his placement on the list with DJ Enuff. Despite his disappointment, he was supportive of his G.O.O.D Music colleague, Big Sean, who was ranked above him at number 6, stating, “More than anything, I’m happy for Sean.” Yet, he didn’t shy away from admitting that his own ranking bothered him.
MTV’s Ranking System
MTV’s “Hottest MCs in the Game VIII” is a ranking system based on a majority vote. It measures who is currently making waves in the industry, meaning older pioneers like Rakim and Chuck D aren’t eligible for the list. The ranking considers a range of factors, including lyrics, impact, sales, buzz, style, and intangibles like star quality. MTV News Correspondent Sway Calloway acts as the moderator in this process.
Kanye’s Advocacy for Big Sean and Response to Criticism
Kanye argued that Big Sean deserved a higher ranking, praising his performance on tracks like ‘Mercy.’ He also addressed criticism about his collaborative ‘Cruel Summer,’ defending its quality and impact. He felt that his ranking was influenced by factors outside his musical performance, like his fashion choices and personal life.
Kanye’s Controversial Lyrics and Public Image
Known for his controversial lyrics, Kanye referenced his track “Cold,” which had been interpreted as a diss towards Kris Humphries, the ex-husband of his partner, Kim Kardashian. He argued that none of the bars in recent months could compete with his. Kanye’s tendency to voice his opinion, especially when feeling slighted, has been a consistent part of his public persona.
MTV’s Rankings
At the time, MTV had only unveiled positions 5 through 10 on their list. The rankings were as follows:
- Drake
- Big Sean
- Kanye West
- A$AP Rocky
- Future
- Meek Mill
Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Kanye’s reaction to his place on MTV’s list. Do you think he had a point, or should he have taken it in stride?
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