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Now, that we are finally in the post autotune era it’s safe to have a realistic conversation on those who have used it the most creatively. Although there are many artists in the game that have used this technology we’re going to take a look at those who used it for a purpose and did it–well right. If you are not familiar with autotune, it’s a vocal enhancer used to smooth out rugged notes of a singer….or rapper. This form of enhancement has been used all throughout the history of the entertainment industry, but became significantly popular when it was introduced to hip-hop and r and b in the 2000′s.

Let’s examine the top 5 artist in hip hop and r and b to use this effectively.

NUMBER 5: Snoop Dogg AKA Snoop Lion (or w.e.)

I think we all remember Snoops autotune channeled voice on the hit song “Sexual Seduction”. And as much as it caught us all off guard that the same gangster rapper that gave us “Gin and Juice” was singing…we liked it. It wasn’t over done and made that summer much more appealing. Lie to yourself if you want to but you know you caught yourself singing it atleast once or twice throughout the day.

Moving right along.

NUMBER 4: T-Pain

It’s no secret that vocalist T-Pain, also known as Teddy Penderassdown, is the pioneer of autotunes usage. The current generation was thrilled with the electronic sound of his voice on “In Love With A Stripper” and “Buy You A Drink”. The reason he is Number 4 …well, it really doesn’t go any further than that.

NUMBER 3: Drake

Drake’s quest to mend r and b and hip-hop cohesively has been the most engaging. His slight usage of autotune is really more or less for the purpose is was intended for–to make you sound smoother. Drake often uses the equalizer to give a stronger presence to his voice as you hear on songs like “Miss Me” or “Over”.

And it don’t stop.

NUMBER 2: Kanye West

One of the greatest performances of all time using autotune was that of Yeezy’s cold album ’808′s & Heartbreak’. The direction he went with it was nothing like the other 3 mentioned. He actually turned autotune into an instrument…and just like any instrument when used correctly…by a great musician ..possibilities are endless. Thank you Yeezus West.

And last but certainly not least. Drum roll please.

No really somebody give me a drum roll. *waits for it*

NUMBER 1: Michael Jackson

Before you all shoot me down, hear me out for a second. Michael Jackson is the greatest entertainer of…well EVER. And as much as you would like to believe he never was hip to the possibilies of autotune, I need you to go back and review the album ‘Bad’ and ‘Off The Wall’. Michael Jackson used vocal equalizers so seamlessly that you would never no he was using them. He put music on a microscope.

So there you have it. The top 5 ever to use autotune effectively.

Don’t agree? Tell me why below.

Tuned Up: Top Five Artists To Use Autotune Effectively