Rapper Name Generator

The Stories Behind the Names

Ever wonder how rap's biggest names got their monikers? The history of hip-hop names is as diverse as the culture itself. Some of the most iconic rap names came from unexpected places. Like 50 Cent, who took his name from a Brooklyn robber, or Eminem, which simply came from his initials M&M.

Method Man earned his name from the film "Method Man" (1979), which he watched obsessively as a teen. The name stuck because he was always trying different methods to make it in the game.

A$AP Rocky's "A$AP" stands for "Always Strive And Prosper" – but also "Assassinating Snitches and Police." It's a perfect example of how rap names often carry multiple meanings.

Ice Cube got his name from his older brother. During arguments, he'd threaten to throw his little brother into a freezer and turn him into an ice cube. The name stuck, proving even family roasts can turn into rap gold.

Travis Scott borrowed his name from a favorite uncle named Travis and Kid Cudi's real first name (Scott). It shows how rap names can be tributes to both family and musical influences.

MF DOOM took his name from the Marvel Comics villain Doctor Doom, creating an entire supervillain persona around it. He even wore a metal mask during performances, showing how a name can shape an entire artistic identity.

Did You Know?

• Tyler, The Creator made his stage name at age 13 while making a MySpace page
• Childish Gambino used an online Wu-Tang name generator (just like our generator, but way less cool)
• 21 Savage's name combines a street gang number from his neighborhood with a reference to his perceived ruthless nature
• Kid Cudi's name came from his high school nickname "Cudi" and adding "Kid" because he felt young in the game