Label heads Brian Brater and Jarret Myer then signed some of the top underground talent from the New York area, notably Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Hi-Tek and Company Flow, who went on to define the label's sound.

Over the years, Rawkus recorded several notable independent hip hop artists,[9] including Reflection Eternal, Company Flow, the High and Mighty, Mos Def and Talib Kweli (as Blackstar), Eminem, Common, Pharoahe Monch and Skillz.

Anchored by the success of the single, Flamboyant, the album was certified Gold by the RIAA for selling over 500,000 copies in America.

In 2006, Rawkus signed with RED (a Sony Music distribution company) and reemerged with a new line up of notable independent hip hop artists: The Procussions, Mr. J. Medeiros, Kidz in the Hall, Marco Polo, and Panacea.

In early 2007, Rawkus Records accepted album submissions from Hip Hop artists, known or unknown, to be considered for their new campaign.