Bone Thugs-started a whole new style/way of rapping.
Im sure the entire Memphis rap scene would have something to say about that.
Someone needs to have a pure definition of "legend", as I still dont think people are quite grasping it.
Eminem has only been in the game nationally for about what, 12 years? Breed has been a known name since the late 80's. He had a hit commercial song on the radio back in 1992 and brought the midwest scene to the forefront and paved the way for many artists...INCLUDING Eminem.
BTNH was out on by the most famous West Coast artist possibly EVER in Eazy-E. Had he not found them, would they ahve gotten the fame they did? Maybe not.
Esham is an underground LEGEND, as much as I think he blows ass as an MC. He has been around FOREVER and has dropped over 20 albums. He made it cool to be "wicked".
Tech N9ne is in the same boat as Esham, but he was 10 years later and is one of the most talented artists that will NEVER see mainstream success like he might deserve.
The Dayton Family has NEVER had any commercial success, but they are a well respected group that has been around since the early 90's.
Twista really brought something different to the table and has been going strong for over 15 years now, gaining national fame as he got deeper into his career. He really stands out with his style and people actually except it, which is a HUGE success.
Anyone else is really moot. Those are the ones to be considered legends IMO.