Top 5 Best Graffiti Crews!
Graffiti crews are the backbone of graffiti and street art, pushing boundaries, sharing styles, and shaping the landscape worldwide. In this blog, we break down The Top 5 (+1 bonus) Best Graffiti Crews as discussed in the video, based on community votes. Each crew brings something unique to the table, from their iconic styles to their legendary members and global influence. Here’s a deep dive into the six graffiti crews that made the list
1. MTA (NY & LA)
MTA is a legendary graffiti crew that exists in two iterations—one based in New York and the other in Los Angeles. The New York crew, which came first, is home to iconic names like Chino and Ree 2, known for their classic graffiti styles. They began in the 70s with the crew, and while the crew might have had some down moments, they’re still very much active today. As time passed, they expanded, bringing more heavy-hitting names into the fold and influencing the graffiti world on the East Coast.
The Los Angeles MTA crew emerged in the 1980s and gained recognition for their bold work and innovative styles. Both crews are renowned in their own right, and their legacies continue to thrive in the graffiti world.
2. MSK
When you think of graffiti all-star team, MSK is a name that inevitably comes to mind. With members like Saber, Rime, Revok, Augor, and Pose, few crews match the raw skill seen here. Each member brings something legendary to the table, from jaw-dropping murals to groundbreaking stylistic innovations, and feats that go above and beyond most writers out there.
What sets MSK apart is their ability to share styles while still maintaining their individual styles. Their influence extends across decades, inspiring artists worldwide—even before the rise of social media. MSK's legacy is a testament to their undeniable talent and commitment to the culture.
3.CMS
With a focus on variety and creativity, CMS blends old-school graffiti aesthetics with contemporary techniques. Their versatility stands out—they’re equally skilled in crafting bold letterforms, intricate characters, and high-quality murals.
For fans of classic graffiti styles with a modern twist, CMS delivers exceptional artwork that honors graffiti’s roots while pushing it forward. Their wide range and high-quality work make them a standout crew on this list and I can see why many view them as being one of their favorites.
4. 1UP
OneUp is arguably one of the most iconic graffiti crews in the world. Their reputation is built on their not only the high-risk spots they hit but also on their uniformity, cohesiveness, and consistency, which makes their work instantly recognizable. Their pieces are so uniform that they almost get branded into your brain like a logo unlike graffiti tags, making them memorable and impactful. In addition to their clean and cohesive style, 1Up is known for hitting some of the wildest spots, adding an extra layer of excitement and danger to their work. Their combination of precision, legibility, and bold locations has cemented their place as one of the best crews in graffiti history.
5. AWR
AWR is another crew that excels at blending styles and pushing the limits of graffiti. What makes AWR special is their members' ability to adopt multiple styles, drawing inspiration from one another while maintaining individuality. This collaboration creates a funky, unpredictable aesthetic that is uniquely their own.AWR’s work showcases everything from bold letterforms to experimental pieces, emphasizing the creative freedom that comes with being part of a crew. Their versatility and innovative approach make them a standout group that continues to inspire graffiti artists worldwide. It also helps that AWR has many members that are also in MSK, so it’s only natural for there to be plenty of skill and talent in AWR.
6. CBS (Bonus)
As a bonus crew, CBS earns a well-deserved spot on the list for their vibrant and highly stylized work. From breathtaking murals to expressive characters and dramatic graffiti, CBS covers every aspect of graffiti art with remarkable skill. Their work is dynamic, often blending realism with graffiti’s traditional flair. Pieces like their Predator-inspired mural highlight their creativity and technical mastery. CBS’s ability to balance artistic expression with bold graffiti styles makes them a favorite among graffiti artists.
