DJ Kool Herc is widely recognized as the father of hip hop and is credited with creating the first hip hop mixtape in the Bronx, New York, in the early 1970s.

Released in 1981, Grandmaster Flash's "The Adventures of Grandmaster Flash on the Wheels of Steel" was a groundbreaking mixtape that showcased his innovative DJ techniques and helped popularize the art of DJing.

Jay-Z's 1996 debut mixtape, "Reasonable Doubt," is widely regarded as a classic in the hip hop community and helped establish his reputation as one of the greatest rappers of all time.

Cam'ron hosted the popular mixtape series "Dipset: The Movement," which featured music from his group The Diplomats and other affiliated artists.

Lil Wayne's 2007 mixtape "Da Drought 3" is widely considered one of the greatest mixtapes of all time, showcasing his lyrical prowess and innovative flow.

50 Cent's 2003 mixtape "Get Rich or Die Tryin'" was a commercial success and helped him gain mainstream recognition, eventually leading to a major record deal.

Chance the Rapper's 2016 mixtape "Coloring Book" was released exclusively on streaming platforms, becoming the first mixtape to be nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album.

DJ Drama hosted the popular mixtape series "Gangsta Grillz," which featured music from Southern hip hop artists and helped popularize the trap music genre.

J. Cole's 2010 mixtape "Friday Night Lights" was released as a surprise to his fans and showcased his storytelling abilities and lyrical prowess.

Drake's 2009 mixtape "So Far Gone" featured the hit song "Best I Ever Had" and helped establish him as a rising star in the hip hop world.

Kendrick Lamar's 2016 mixtape "untitled unmastered." was released as a companion piece to his album "To Pimp a Butterfly" and featured eight untitled tracks that explored similar themes.

Chief Keef hosted the popular mixtape series "S.O.S.A," which featured music from his collective Glo Gang and helped popularize the drill music genre.

Migos' 2013 mixtape "Yung Rich Nation" helped them gain mainstream recognition and featured the hit song "Versace."

Future's 2012 mixtape "Pluto" featured the hit song "March Madness" and helped establish him as a major force in the hip hop world.

Young Thug's 2015 mixtape "Barter 6" is considered a classic in the Atlanta trap music scene and is known for its innovative production and Young Thug's unique vocal style.