The Rules:
This is highly open to interpretation. But generally speaking, a crew consists of several artists — usually a heavyweight, a rapper, some subgroups, maybe a singer at some point or other. Some of the members might come and go. Also, these are groups who proudly repped their set, through logos, chains, hand signs, clothing lines, or just making sure you never forgot their name.
We asked ourselves questions about their cultural impact, regional influence, longevity, and uniqueness. Who changed our childhood? What crews fill you with nostalgia? Who kicked down doors? Who made you say ugh?
26. Slip-N-Slide Records
25. Maybach Music Group
24. Screwed-Up Click
23. Flipmode Squad
22. Terror Squad
21. Hypnotize Camp Posse
20. Grand Hustle
19. Top Dawg Entertainment
18. Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All
17. St. Lunatics
16. Disturbing Tha Peace
15. Ruff Ryders
14. Star Trak
13. G.O.O.D. Music
12. G-Unit
11. So So Def
10. Murder Inc.
9. Dungeon Family
8. No Limit
7. 2 Live Crew
6. Wu-Tang Clan
5. Roc-A-Fella
4. Bad Boy Records
3. Young Money
2. Cash Money
1. Death Row Records
Honorable mention: Missy Elliott, Ginuwine, Timbaland, Aaliyah
At some point, some of these artists and producers went by the name Swing Mob, but that group disbanded in 1995, and the alums went on to literally change the sound of R&B music. Missy, Timbaland, Aaliyah, and Ginuwine made revolutionary music — and music videos — together in the late '90s/early aughts.
Some sources say they later went by the name Da Bassment — but part of being a clique is the unabashed representation of your clique. These artists never had a logo, chain, or shout-outs in the records; however, it'd still be remiss not to mention the long-lasting collective impact of these icons.
Disagree with us? Sound off in the comments below!
Update
Truer words have never been spoken – "Cash Rules Everything Around Me." We heard you loud and clear; Wu-Tang Clan is now in the top 10, and rightfully so.