Tekashi 69, also known as 6ix9ine, is one of the most controversial figures in the world of rap music. His colorful appearance, legal troubles, and confrontational style have made him a polarizing figure. But when it comes to his music, Tekashi 69 has carved out a niche that blends several elements of rap into a unique and aggressive sound. This article will delve into the kind of rap music Tekashi 69 makes, exploring his style, influences, and the impact of his work on the genre.
I. The Rise of Tekashi 69
Tekashi 69, born Daniel Hernandez, emerged in the rap scene in the late 2010s. He is known for his colorful appearance, including rainbow-colored hair and numerous face tattoos. His unique image helped him stand out in a crowded industry.
II. Musical Style
Tekashi 69’s music is often characterized by its aggressive style and energetic delivery. Here are some key elements of his musical style:
Aggressive Delivery: Tekashi 69’s rapping is intense and high-energy. He often uses a confrontational tone, which adds to the overall impact of his songs.
Heavy Bass: His tracks frequently feature booming bass lines that drive the rhythm of the song.
Repetitive Hooks: Many of his songs include catchy, repetitive hooks that make them memorable and radio-friendly.
Ad-Libs: Tekashi uses ad-libs to add excitement and emphasis to his verses. These are often high-pitched and exclamatory.
III. Influences and Inspirations
Tekashi 69’s music is influenced by a variety of sources. His style reflects a mix of different rap subgenres:
Trap Music: He draws heavily from trap music, a subgenre known for its use of 808 drum machines and high-energy beats. Artists like Lil Pump and Gucci Mane have also contributed to this sound.
Gangsta Rap: Elements of gangsta rap can be heard in Tekashi 69’s lyrics and themes. This subgenre is known for its raw and often violent depiction of street life.
Punk Rock: Some of Tekashi’s music shows influences from punk rock, especially in his aggressive delivery and rebellious attitude.
IV. Notable Tracks
Several tracks showcase Tekashi 69’s distinct style. Here are a few notable examples:
“GUMMO”: This track is one of Tekashi 69’s breakout hits. It features a hard-hitting beat and his signature aggressive delivery. The song’s catchy hook and energetic production helped it gain widespread popularity.
“FEFE”: Featuring Nicki Minaj, “FEFE” combines Tekashi’s high-energy style with Nicki’s versatile flow. The track blends pop and rap elements, making it accessible to a broader audience.
“STOOPID”: In this song, Tekashi 69’s aggressive style is paired with a hard-hitting beat. The track reflects his typical high-energy approach and confrontational lyrics.
V. Lyrical Themes
Tekashi 69’s lyrics often focus on themes of violence, fame, and defiance. Here’s a closer look at these themes:
Violence and Street Life: Many of Tekashi’s songs depict violent scenarios and street life. His lyrics often boast about his toughness and survival in dangerous environments.
Fame and Success: Tekashi frequently raps about his rise to fame and the wealth he has accumulated. This theme is common in his music and reflects his desire to flaunt his success.
Defiance and Rebellion: His lyrics often express a rebellious attitude. Tekashi’s music reflects his defiance against critics and his determination to stand out.
VI. Controversies and Public Perception
Tekashi 69 is known for his controversial behavior both in and out of the music industry. These controversies have influenced how his music is perceived:
Legal Issues: Tekashi 69’s legal troubles, including his involvement in a racketeering case, have attracted significant media attention. These issues have impacted his public image and music career.
Public Feuds: He has been involved in several public feuds with other artists, which has both fueled his notoriety and affected his reputation.
Social Media Presence: Tekashi 69’s use of social media to provoke reactions and engage with fans has played a major role in his career. His online antics often overshadow his music.
VII. Impact on the Rap Genre
Tekashi 69’s music has had a notable impact on the rap genre. Here’s how:
Popularity of Aggressive Styles: His success has contributed to the popularity of aggressive and high-energy rap styles. Other artists have been influenced by his approach.
Marketing and Branding: Tekashi’s branding and persona have shown how personal image can be used effectively in the music industry. His distinctive look and controversial behavior have helped him stand out.
Streaming and Social Media: His use of social media and streaming platforms has demonstrated how these tools can be leveraged to build a following and promote music.
VIII. The Future of Tekashi 69’s Music
Looking ahead, Tekashi 69’s future in music is uncertain. His career will likely continue to be shaped by his personal controversies and evolving musical style. As he moves forward, it will be interesting to see how his music develops and how he navigates the challenges he faces.
See Also: Can You Tell Where Rap Music Is From by the Beat?
VII. Conclusion
Tekashi 69’s music is best described as a blend of hardcore rap, drill, and trap, with a heavy emphasis on aggression and controversy. His unique sound and visual style have made him a standout figure in the rap world, even as his actions outside of music continue to generate debate.
For fans of rap music that is intense, rebellious, and unafraid to push boundaries, Tekashi 69 offers a sound that is both familiar and innovative. However, for those who value authenticity and ethics in their music, he remains a divisive figure.
In the end, Tekashi 69’s music is a reflection of the complex and often contradictory nature of modern rap. It challenges listeners to grapple with questions of art versus artist, and it forces the genre to confront its own evolving identity in the face of changing cultural norms. Whether loved or hated, Tekashi 69’s contribution to rap music is undeniable, and his influence will likely be felt for years to come.
