Bands & artists like AZ

If you like AZ, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop mafioso rap

Artists to try next

Nas

Guide

As a contemporary of AZ, Nas shares a similar lyrical depth and East Coast sound, often incorporating vivid storytelling over minimalist beats.

East Coast hip-hop alternative hip-hop boom bap

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It Was Written

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Cormega

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Cormega's gritty lyricism and smooth delivery align closely with AZ's mafioso rap style, emphasizing street narratives and introspective themes.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

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My Brother's Keeper

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Raekwon

Guide

Raekwon's work in the Wu-Tang Clan showcases a cinematic approach to storytelling that parallels AZ's intricate flows and atmospheric production.

East Coast hip-hop boom bap gangsta rap

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Wu-Massacre

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Mobb Deep

Guide

Mobb Deep's dark, haunting beats and aggressive lyricism resonate well with AZ's hardcore hip-hop aesthetic and New York roots.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

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The Infamous

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Big L

Big L's clever wordplay and sharp punchlines mirror AZ's lyrical prowess, with both artists rooted in the East Coast hip-hop scene.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

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Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous

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Ghostface Killah

Guide

Ghostface's vivid imagery and emotional delivery complement AZ's intricate storytelling, creating a shared narrative style within their music.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

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Ironman

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Styles P

Guide

Styles P's raw lyricism and tough delivery align with AZ’s streetwise themes, while both artists maintain a strong connection to the East Coast sound.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

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Phantom and the Ghost

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Kool G Rap

Guide

Kool G Rap is known for his complex rhymes and mafioso themes, making him a foundational influence on AZ’s style and lyrical content.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap golden age hip-hop

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Half a Klip

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Common questions

Who sounds like AZ?

Artists similar to AZ include Nas, Cormega, Raekwon and Mobb Deep. Each shares elements of AZ's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is AZ?

AZ is primarily known for gangsta rap, hardcore hip-hop and East Coast hip-hop. AZ's tracks pulse with gritty rhythms and sharp lyricism, layering complex flows over understated beats that emphasize both tension and release.

Where should I start if I like AZ?

If you enjoy AZ, start with Nas — their album "It Was Written" is a great entry point. As a contemporary of AZ, Nas shares a similar lyrical depth and East Coast sound, often incorporating vivid storytelling over minimalist beats.