Cloud rap is a unique subgenre of hip-hop that blends dreamy, atmospheric beats with laid-back, introspective lyrics. Emerging in the early 2010s, it has captivated listeners with its ethereal soundscapes and has become a significant part of the modern rap landscape. Below is a curated list of 20 essential cloud rap songs, showcasing the genre’s evolution and diversity.
20 Cloud Rap Songs You Want to Hear
1. “Ginseng Strip 2002” – Yung Lean
Yung Lean, a Swedish rapper, is often credited with popularizing cloud rap. “Ginseng Strip 2002” is one of his most famous tracks, featuring a melancholic melody and minimalist production. The song’s lo-fi aesthetic and introspective lyrics make it a quintessential cloud rap anthem.
2. “Solarflare” – Clams Casino
Clams Casino is a pioneer in cloud rap production. “Solarflare” is an instrumental track that perfectly encapsulates the genre’s signature sound. The song’s dreamy, ambient textures create an otherworldly atmosphere that is both soothing and haunting.
3. “Broccoli” – DRAM ft. Lil Yachty
This upbeat track by DRAM and Lil Yachty combines the playful elements of cloud rap with catchy melodies. “Broccoli” became a massive hit, thanks to its infectious chorus and feel-good vibe. Lil Yachty’s laid-back delivery perfectly complements the song’s lighthearted production.
4. “Emotionless” – Drake
While Drake is primarily known for mainstream rap, “Emotionless” features cloud rap influences. The song’s ethereal production and reflective lyrics delve into themes of fame and loneliness. It’s a perfect blend of introspection and ambiance, making it a standout track in Drake’s discography.
5. “Wings” – Macklemore
Macklemore’s “Wings” is a cloud rap track that tackles consumerism and the culture surrounding sneaker obsession. The song’s mellow beat and introspective lyrics make it a thought-provoking listen. Its atmospheric production and emotional depth set it apart from typical hip-hop tracks.
6. “I’m God” – Clams Casino
Clams Casino’s “I’m God” is another instrumental masterpiece that has become iconic within the cloud rap genre. The song’s ethereal melodies and haunting samples create a transcendent listening experience. It’s a track that perfectly encapsulates the otherworldly vibe of cloud rap.
7. “Sad Boys” – Yung Lean
Yung Lean returns with “Sad Boys,” a track that delves deep into themes of sadness and alienation. The song’s melancholic production and Yung Lean’s deadpan delivery create a haunting atmosphere. “Sad Boys” is a prime example of how cloud rap can convey complex emotions through minimalistic beats and introspective lyrics.
8. “L$D” – A$AP Rocky
A$AP Rocky’s “L$D” blends cloud rap with psychedelic influences. The song’s dreamy production and trippy visuals make it a standout track in his discography. “L$D” is a sonic journey that explores love, drugs, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.
9. “Beamer Boy” – Lil Peep
Lil Peep was a key figure in the emo rap and cloud rap scenes. “Beamer Boy” features a melancholic beat and lyrics that reflect on fame, relationships, and mental health. The song’s raw emotion and ethereal production make it a standout track in Lil Peep’s catalog.
10. “Love Scars” – Trippie Redd
Trippie Redd’s “Love Scars” is a cloud rap track that combines emotional lyrics with atmospheric production. The song’s haunting melody and Trippie Redd’s impassioned delivery create a powerful listening experience. “Love Scars” is a testament to cloud rap’s ability to convey deep emotions through music.
11. “Lean Wit Me” – Juice WRLD
Juice WRLD’s “Lean Wit Me” is a cloud rap track that tackles addiction and the struggles of coping with pain. The song’s atmospheric production and introspective lyrics make it a poignant listen. Juice WRLD’s emotive delivery adds an extra layer of depth to the track.
12. “Forever” – Clams Casino ft. Lil B
“Forever” is a collaboration between Clams Casino and Lil B that showcases the best of cloud rap. Clams Casino’s dreamy production sets the stage for Lil B’s free-form, introspective lyrics. The result is a track that is both hypnotic and thought-provoking.
13. “XO TOUR Llif3” – Lil Uzi Vert
Lil Uzi Vert’s “XO TOUR Llif3” became a massive hit, thanks to its catchy hook and melancholic production. The song’s lyrics, which explore themes of heartbreak and existential angst, resonate deeply with listeners. “XO TOUR Llif3” is a perfect example of cloud rap’s ability to blend emotion with catchy melodies.
14. “Money Longer” – Lil Uzi Vert
Another hit from Lil Uzi Vert, “Money Longer” features a bouncy, yet dreamy production. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus make it a standout track in the cloud rap genre. Lil Uzi Vert’s unique delivery and the song’s atmospheric beat create a perfect blend of hype and chill.
15. “Flex Like Ouu” – Lil Pump
Lil Pump’s “Flex Like Ouu” may lean more towards trap, but it features elements of cloud rap in its production. The song’s hazy, atmospheric beat and repetitive, catchy hook make it an easy listen. Lil Pump’s braggadocious lyrics and the track’s minimalist production highlight the influence of cloud rap in modern trap music.
16. “Falling Down” – Lil Peep & XXXTentacion
“Falling Down” is a posthumous collaboration between Lil Peep and XXXTentacion. The song’s melancholic production and introspective lyrics create a somber, reflective atmosphere. It’s a track that resonates with the themes of love, loss, and reflection, making it a powerful example of cloud rap’s emotional depth.
17. “1Night” – Lil Yachty
Lil Yachty’s “1Night” is a playful, upbeat track that features cloud rap’s signature dreamy production. The song’s catchy melody and carefree lyrics make it a fun listen. “1Night” showcases Lil Yachty’s unique style and the versatility of cloud rap as a genre.
18. “Lucid Dreams” – Juice WRLD
“Lucid Dreams” is one of Juice WRLD’s most famous tracks, combining cloud rap with emo influences. The song’s ethereal production and heart-wrenching lyrics about love and betrayal struck a chord with listeners worldwide. “Lucid Dreams” is a prime example of how cloud rap can create a deeply emotional and immersive listening experience.
19. “Let It Go” – Playboi Carti
Playboi Carti’s “Let It Go” is a cloud rap track that features minimalist production and repetitive, hypnotic lyrics. The song’s laid-back vibe and catchy flow make it a standout in Carti’s discography. “Let It Go” is a perfect example of how cloud rap can be both chill and captivating at the same time.
20. “White Wine” – Lil Peep ft. Lil Tracy
Lil Peep’s collaboration with Lil Tracy, “White Wine,” is a cloud rap track that blends emo and trap influences. The song’s atmospheric production and raw, emotional lyrics create a haunting, yet beautiful listening experience. “White Wine” is a testament to Lil Peep’s ability to fuse genres and create something uniquely impactful.
See Also: An Overview about The Rise and Popularity of Classical Music Rap
Conclusion
Cloud rap has carved out a unique niche within the broader hip-hop genre, offering a sonic escape with its dreamy beats and introspective lyrics. The 20 tracks listed above highlight the diversity and emotional depth of cloud rap, showcasing its evolution from underground sound to mainstream influence. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the genre, these songs are essential listening for anyone interested in the ethereal world of cloud rap.
