Well, Azealia Banks is making waves again, and this time it’s all about rap rankings! Complex magazine recently dropped their list of the 50 greatest New York rappers of all time, and it seems Azealia wasn’t too pleased with where – or rather, if – she landed on it. Spoiler alert: she didn’t make the cut, and A$AP Rocky landed at No. 40.
A Bold Statement: “Defund Complex”
Predictably, Azealia didn’t hold back. She took to X (formerly Twitter) to declare that she’s “better than A$AP Rocky” and, in true Azealia fashion, bluntly added, “Defund Complex.” This post quickly went viral, reigniting the age-old debate among hip-hop fans about legacy, talent, and the often-contentious nature of these types of lists.
While Banks has certainly cultivated a reputation as one of social media’s most controversial figures, many fans argue her undeniable musical talent often gets overshadowed by the constant internet drama. The discussion quickly shifted from A$AP Rocky’s placement to Azealia’s own legacy and whether her contributions are truly appreciated.
Fan Reactions and Legacy Debates
Fans are divided. Some are fiercely defending Azealia, stating she’s better than many artists on the list. Others point to a lack of consistency in her catalog after her early hits like “212,” suggesting that while she’s impactful, her overall body of work doesn’t stack up against the consistent output of others.
Meanwhile, A$AP Rocky’s No. 40 spot also drew criticism. Supporters felt he deserved a higher ranking due to his significant influence on fashion, his unique psychedelic rap sound, and how he helped shape New York rap for a new generation. Others argued for artists like Jadakiss, Styles P, or even Max B to be placed above him.
Max B’s Outburst and Azealia’s Relevance
The social media frenzy even spilled over into real-time interviews. Max B, who was completely left off the list, became so visibly upset during a chat with Complex’s Jordan Rose that he stormed out of the studio! This highlights just how passionate people are about these New York rap discussions.
Regardless of where one stands on her music, Azealia Banks has a remarkable ability to insert herself into conversations and remain culturally relevant. Her consistent ability to generate reactions keeps her in the public eye, long after many of her peers have faded. She remains one of rap’s biggest “what if” stories, with her music often overshadowed by the drama.
As for A$AP Rocky, he continues to be a major force in music, fashion, and beyond, with his celebrity status arguably transcending the rap genre itself, especially with his high-profile relationship with Rihanna. The debate over his exact place on an all-time New York list, however, is clearly far from over.
What do you think about Azealia Banks’ comments and Complex’s New York rap list? Who do you believe deserves a spot? Let us know in the comments!