Kai Cenat and Plaqueboymax Top the Chart of Most Influential Hip-Hop Streamers
The world of hip-hop streaming is buzzing after Complex dropped its much-anticipated list of the 10 Most Powerful Streamers in Hip-Hop. Topping the list is Kai Cenat, a name rapidly becoming synonymous with high-profile hip-hop collaborations. Known for his knack of working with big names like Nicki Minaj, Tyla, Offset, and Playboi Carti—he even managed to break news about Carti’s upcoming album—Cenat has become an influential force in merging streaming culture with hip-hop’s vibrancy.
Following closely is Plaqueboymax, who soared to the top with his innovative segment "In The Booth" that features artists like Central Cee. This segment has caught the industry's eye, sparking conversations within the hip-hop community and proving its impact on how music is consumed and interacted with online.
Other notable names include DJ Akademiks, who sits at number three. As a music commentator and industry insider, his influence is undeniable despite his share of controversies. Adin Ross, at fourth place, is no stranger to headlines either. Known for criticizing Kanye West's divisive remarks, he contributes significantly to the broader dialogue around hip-hop’s role in societal issues.
Shawn Cee’s fifth place recognizes his unique blend of music and comedy, while Zias! & B.lou, the dynamic duo that cleverly mixes hip-hop with gaming culture, lands at number six. Meanwhile, DDG, originally a rapper turned streamer, has turned heads with his viral streaming moments that continue to capture audience engagement.
However, not everyone agreed with the rankings. Some of the most intense reactions came at N3on’s controversial position at eighth, especially since it placed him above ImDontai, the seasoned streamer and music reactor known for passionately amplifying hip-hop tracks within his community.
The controversy reached a boiling point when ImDontai himself voiced confusion over being lower ranked than N3on. His poignant remark, "I don’t understand it!" echoed across social media, with fans quickly taking to memes and humorous jabs, calling the ranking "plain disrespectful." This debate sheds light on the ongoing discourse about how streaming influence is measured and acknowledged within hip-hop.
YourRAGE, positioned at number nine, adds another layer to the scene as a FaZe Clan streamer with a keen ear for music-driven content, complementing the aggressive but necessary shake-up the industry is undergoing.
The list is more than a ranking; it's a snapshot of how the hip-hop streaming world is evolving. Through collaborations, cultural contributions, and their ability to shape conversations, these streamers are redefining music's journey from studio to stream. What remains clear is this: the streaming wave in hip-hop isn't a passing trend, but a transformative force within the music landscape.