T.I. The Best Rapper Out The South?

As much as artists (and fans) may not want to admit, comparisons are one of the most prevalent pillars in Hip-Hop. When looking at music from a roundabout point of view, it only makes sense in a genre which prides itself on a “I’m-better-than-you” mantra. The other day I found myself listening to nothing but Southern rap music. It’s not that I intended for this to happen; it just did. ‘Face, Goodie Mobb, UGK, Outkast, Devin The Dude, Slim Thug, Z-Ro, The Hot Boys, Luda, Jeezy…you name it, damn near everybody below the Mason-Dixon line was in rotation. That’s when I came to the conclusion (well, question) which is sure to ruffle a few feathers and likely lose me a few followers on Twitter.

Could T.I. really be the greatest Southern artist…ever? Before you deem me as an idiot, hear me out.

Years ago when Tip proclaimed himself as the ‘King of the South’, many laughed and shook it off as another artist who simply jumped the gun at announcing his own greatness. Now, when looking at his musical resume’, he may be just that.

1. Numbers Don’t Lie — As a solo artist, you’d be hard pressed to find another who has seen the success Clifford has since his rise to prominence in 2002. Excluding his extremely underrated debut, I’m Serious, and the P$C group album, 25 To Life, his last five (yes FIVE) solo albums have all scanned over a million copies. Aside from Jay, Em and Nas (and soon to be Kanye and Wayne), there aren’t many living artists who can say they’ve had an entire handful of albums reach a million people…respectively. A couple of Grammys doesn’t hurt the cause either.

2. Versatility Like None Other — When it comes to delivering a hit, Tip’s done it in every category imaginable. By categories, I’m referring to: commercial (ex. #2), female-generated (ex. #2), introspective (ex. #2) and hood anthems (ex. #2). He’s done it on more than two occasions, too, for the record.

3. The Mixtape Game — While his resume’ isn’t as polished as say a Lil’ Wayne, Gucci Mane or Young Jeezy on the mixtape scene, all you really need is one classic under your belt to garner eternal respect in that area. To this day, Down With The King is still one of DJ Drama’s most ballyhooed releases. Now imagine the buzz which could surface if he drops another one with Drama post-prison. I’m just sayin’.

4. Career Ender — Ok, Luda got him on “Stomp.” Th