The "Best to Ever Do It" - Informal Edition
The phrase "best to ever do it" is thrown around a lot these days. It's a title reserved for those who transcend their respective fields, leaving an indelible mark on history. But who are the true "best to ever do it," when we take the formal, structured world of records and awards and throw them out the window?
Let's dive into the informal, the subjective, the purely based on impact and influence: the "best to ever do it" according to the streets, the fans, the culture, and the pure, unadulterated love for a craft.
The "Best to Ever Do It" Criteria
Before we start throwing names around, let's establish some ground rules:
- Impact: Did they change the game? Did they create a new path for others to follow? Did their work inspire generations?
- Influence: Do they have a massive following? Are they constantly referenced and imitated? Do they continue to shape the world around them?
- Subjectivity: This is where it gets tricky. "Best" is subjective, and what you consider the "best" will be different from someone else. This is a conversation, not a definitive list.
The "Best to Ever Do It" Across Different Fields
Music:
- Hip-Hop: This one is arguably the most debated. You have legends like Tupac and Biggie, who shaped the landscape with their raw talent and lyrical prowess. Jay-Z is another strong contender, known for his business acumen and influence on the game beyond music. And then there's Kendrick Lamar, a modern-day icon pushing boundaries and constantly evolving.
- Rock: The Beatles are a safe bet, as their impact on the world is undeniable. Elvis Presley changed the face of music, while Bob Dylan redefined the role of the songwriter.
- Pop: Michael Jackson is arguably the biggest name in music history, with his influence reaching across generations. Madonna, with her constant reinvention and fearless exploration of sexuality, is another legend.
Sports:
- Basketball: Michael Jordan is considered by many to be the "GOAT." His talent, charisma, and winning attitude are unmatched. LeBron James, however, has a strong claim, with his longevity and statistical dominance.
- Football (American): Tom Brady is the most decorated player in NFL history, but Jim Brown and Jerry Rice have strong arguments for the "best to ever do it" title.
- Soccer: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are in a constant battle for the top spot, with their skill, goalscoring ability, and global recognition.
Movies:
- Action: Bruce Lee revolutionized action cinema, paving the way for countless martial arts films. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone took the genre to new heights, with their iconic roles and physicality.
- Drama: Marlon Brando, Robert De Niro, and Al Pacino are all considered titans of acting, with their iconic performances shaping generations of actors.
- Comedy: Charlie Chaplin is a pioneer of silent comedy, while Will Ferrell and Jim Carrey are comedic geniuses known for their physicality and absurdity.
Beyond the Traditional:
- Art: Leonardo da Vinci, Pablo Picasso, and Vincent van Gogh are just a few names that come to mind. Their work pushed the boundaries of art and left a lasting legacy.
- Fashion: Coco Chanel revolutionized women's fashion, while Yves Saint Laurent and Karl Lagerfeld continue to define trends.
- Literature: William Shakespeare, Ernest Hemingway, and Jane Austen are just a few names that have left an indelible mark on the literary world.
The Conversation Continues
This list is just a starting point. It is impossible to definitively say who is the "best to ever do it" in any field. It's a conversation that will continue, sparked by arguments, disagreements, and the love for great art, entertainment, and sports.
So, who do you think deserves the title of "best to ever do it" in your favorite field? Share your thoughts and start the conversation!
