I think i rank BDK ever so slightly above KRS and Rakim, but since this is K, i'll give K to Kris Parker

Why do I rank Kane a sliver above KRS and Rakim?

KRS is the greatest live emcee i've ever witnessed, bar none. As a lyricist and wax-rapper, he's far from wack, but imo weakest of the 3

Rakim is probably the single most influential lyricist ever to grab a mic, sounds dope on wax, but i saw him live and was bored

Kane is a neck-breathing nosehair behind the best in both categories.


runner-ups:
Kool G Rap
(some would say he should be in the above convo and i wouldn't argue)
Killer Mike
Kurupt