Perhaps you should start with The Word's guide to Hip Hop, another Spotify playlist.

Young MC's album from early 90s. Creative use of samples, interesting stories to tell, low on violence, guns, misogyny...

Not hip-hop really as much as it's pop-rap, but enjoyable nonetheless.

Rich

I posted a similar query about a year ago which came up with some great tracks, may favourite of which is "Cleanin' out my closet" by Eminem which I think is brilliant.

My colleague who knows about these things recommends Kool Keith. Absolutely barking mad (been sectioned apparently) but quite innovative in the hip-hop sphere so I've been told.

...is, arguably, around 1989. Before this, things were incredibly inventive and largely expletive free. Afterwards, Hip Hop lost a lot of its edge and headed into X-rated territory. Copyright and NWA were, in many Hip-Hip fan's eyes, the main factors. Still, Hip Hop has influenced others and you'll find good stuff with HIp-Hop tinge.

So for before 1989: LL Cool J, Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, Young MC, Eric B and Rakim, Jungle Brothers, KRS1 (Boogie Down Productions).

After 1989: Cypress Hill, Wu Tang Clan, Nas, Outkast, Jay Z, Kanye West.

The best stuff is brilliant, btw. Happy listening!

Especially "Things Fall Apart" - an excellent album. And they actually play live, with real instruments and everything.

For a selection of individual tunes:

Concrete Schoolyard - Jurassic 5

We Know Something You Don't Know - DJ Format ft Charli 2na

Vicious Battle Raps and/or The Hit Song - DJ Format ft MC Abdominal

Ms Fat Booty - Mos Def

The Weight - The Creators

Hip Hop - Dead Prez

Also, pretty much anything by Roots Manuva

...but can't find The Anfield Rap on Spotify.