The Regional Rap
An exploration of the various components which make up the contemporary rap scene in the United States of America
An exploration of the various components which make up the contemporary rap scene in the United States of America
Atlanta is best known for trap music, proficiency with autotune technology, and triplet flows. In terms of lyrics there is a heavy emphasis on material goods, the sale and consumption of recreational drugs, and partying. Much of mainstream hip-hop is heavily influenced by the Atlanta sound, and music from Atlanta artists can be heard in a variety of places ranging from the club to television commercials.
Chicago's primary musical export is drill music. This subgenera of hip-hop is categorized by its dark, violent and nihilistic lyrical content and trap-influenced beats with harsh tones.
Detroit has a very unique style. Production features beats composed of signature bass-lines and percussion patterns, while the raps typically consist of hectic verses heavy on non-sequiturs.
The current scene in North Carolina is divided, with the most prominent artist from the region being known for delivering thoughtful lyrics over complex and soulful production. However, many of the other artists here, notably those from Charlotte are known for their punchy and bombastic lyrics, which are delivered over bass heavy production.
The Houston sound is a mix of many different styles. Most notably the screw sound, which features prominently slowing effects and low pitches. This in conjunction with other Southern influences makes the Houston sound familiar yet very individualistic.
The rap scene in Los Angeles is heavily influenced by electronic music, due in part to the origins of the music scene. Rap in California originated from DJing rather than rapping, thus an emphasis on less traditional production such as boom bap is prevalent. In Los Angeles particularly, there can be seen heavy influences of gang culture, such as the Crips and Bloods.
Memphis rap has been characterized by its punchy but repetitive production. Artists often employ double time flows over a variety of samples from a bevy of genres, in addition to interpolated hooks. Production without sampling is common as well, despite this tendency to incorporate other sounds.
The sound of Miami features high tempos, explicit lyrics of a sexual nature, and booming baselines. Lyrics are often energetic, loud, and reflect the voice of the streets.
The contemporary sound of New York is torn between two prevalent subgenera. The first is a more refined iteration of Chicago drill. The second is infuses melodic, heartfelt lyrics with trap beats.
The city of Philadelphia has a rich musical history, the influences of which can be seen even in rap music. From jazz to opera to soul to R&B the production used is varied and rich. Similarly, lyrics are heartfelt and typically paint a vivid picture of the realities of living in the city. On the other side of the spectrum, Philadelphia has a vibrant music scene that, while still employs vivid imagery, depicts a lifestyle of fun and luxury.
Notable Artists: 21 Savage, Lil Yachty, Donald Glover, Lil Baby, 2 Chainz, Migos, Mulatto, Playboi Carti, Young Thug, Future
Notable Artists: Lil Durk, G Herbo, King Von, Coonye West, Chief Keef, Juice Wrld, Polo G, Noname, Famous Dex, Chance the Rapper
Notable Artists: Eminem, Big Sean, Tee Grizzly, Danny Brown, Sada Baby
Notable Artists: J Cole, DaBaby, Cordae, Stunna 4 Vegas, Toosii, Rhapsody
Notable Artists: Travis Scott, Megan Thee Stallion, Maxo Kream, Ugly God, Don Toliver
Notable Artists: Ab-Soul, Jay Rock, Kendrick Lamar, Nipsey Hussle, Roddy Ricch, Earl Sweatshirt, Tyler, The Creator, Schoolboy Q, Vince Staples, Tyga
Notable Artists: Moneybagg Yo, BlocBoy JB, Blac Youngsta, NLE Choppa, Yo Gotti, Pooh Shiesty
Notable Artists: Rick Ross, Smokepurpp, City Girls, Denzel Curry, Ski Mask The Slumpgod
Notable Artists: Fivio Foreign, Pop Smoke, A Boogie With Da Hoodie, Lil Tjay, Sheff G, Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, Lil Tecca, Bobby Shmurda, Sleepy Hallow
Notable Artists: Meek Mill, Lil Uzi Vert, PnB Rock, Kur, Tierra Whack, Pop Hunna, Blvck Sheep