Hip-hop is a dynamic and multifaceted cultural movement that has transcended its origins in the streets of New York City to become a global phenomenon. At the heart of hip-hop culture is its music, which has given birth to a wide array of subgenres, each with its own unique characteristics and audience. To understand what style of music is considered a subgenre of hip-hop culture, we must first explore the foundational elements of hip-hop and then delve into some of the most prominent subgenres that have emerged from it.
The Foundation of Hip-Hop Culture
Hip-hop culture is generally understood to consist of four key elements: DJing, MCing (rapping), breakdancing, and graffiti art. Each element contributes to the overall identity of hip-hop, but music plays a particularly central role in its development and dissemination.
The music of hip-hop originated in the 1970s in the Bronx, New York City, where DJs like Kool Herc pioneered the use of breakbeats—extended instrumental sections of funk, soul, and disco records that emphasized rhythm over melody. As breakdancers performed to these beats, MCs began to rap, providing lyrical content over the music. Hip-hop’s sound was further shaped by innovations in sampling and beat-making, leading to a distinct genre that combined rhythmic patterns, electronic elements, and spoken word poetry.
Defining Subgenres in Hip-Hop
A subgenre is a specific category within a larger genre that shares foundational elements but also introduces new themes, sounds, or approaches. In hip-hop, subgenres often reflect the cultural and social environments in which they were developed, as well as the particular innovations of artists and producers.
Several musical styles have been born from hip-hop culture, each representing unique aspects of the larger genre. Let’s examine some of the most notable subgenres.
1. Gangsta Rap
Gangsta rap emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a raw, often controversial subgenre that reflected the realities of street life, crime, and violence, particularly in inner-city communities. Artists like N.W.A., Ice-T, and Tupac Shakur are among the pioneers of this style, which drew attention for its explicit lyrical content and its portrayal of life in the ghetto.
This subgenre is known for its aggressive beats, hard-hitting lyrics, and unapologetic narratives of life in urban America. Gangsta rap was instrumental in bringing attention to issues such as police brutality, systemic racism, and economic inequality, though it also faced criticism for glorifying violence and misogyny.
Impact and Legacy: Gangsta rap’s influence on hip-hop culture is immense. It pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable in mainstream music and helped establish hip-hop as a vehicle for social and political commentary. While gangsta rap has faced backlash for its controversial content, it remains a defining subgenre within hip-hop culture.
2. Trap Music
Trap music is a subgenre that originated in the Southern United States in the early 2000s, particularly in cities like Atlanta. Its name refers to “the trap,” a term used to describe places where illegal drugs are sold. The music reflects the struggles of life in the trap, often focusing on themes of drug dealing, crime, poverty, and violence.
Musically, trap is characterized by its heavy use of 808 kick drums, fast hi-hats, and layered synthesizers. Producers like Lex Luger, Metro Boomin, and Zaytoven played key roles in developing the signature sound of trap music, which often features slow, ominous beats that contrast with fast-paced, repetitive hi-hats.
Rappers such as T.I., Gucci Mane, and Young Jeezy are considered pioneers of the trap movement, and the subgenre has since exploded in popularity, with artists like Future, Migos, and Travis Scott bringing trap to the mainstream.
Impact and Legacy: Trap music has become one of the most commercially successful subgenres of hip-hop. Its distinctive sound has influenced not only hip-hop but also pop music, with trap elements being incorporated by artists outside of the genre. Trap continues to evolve, with sub-subgenres like “emo trap” and “drill” further diversifying its landscape.
3. Boom Bap
Boom bap is often considered the quintessential sound of 1990s East Coast hip-hop. The term “boom bap” refers to the drum sounds commonly heard in this style: a deep kick drum (the “boom”) and a sharp snare drum (the “bap”). This subgenre is defined by its gritty, raw production style and its emphasis on lyricism.
Pioneers of boom bap include producers like DJ Premier, Pete Rock, and Large Professor, who used sampling techniques to create dense, layered beats from jazz, soul, and funk records. Lyrically, boom bap artists often focus on storytelling, social commentary, and complex wordplay, with groups like A Tribe Called Quest, Gang Starr, and Wu-Tang Clan serving as prominent examples.
Impact and Legacy: Boom bap is considered the “golden era” sound of hip-hop, and its influence is still felt today. Many modern artists and producers pay homage to this style by incorporating boom bap elements into their music. While it’s not as commercially dominant as trap or other newer subgenres, boom bap remains a beloved sound among hip-hop purists.
4. Conscious Hip-Hop
Conscious hip-hop is a subgenre that focuses on social issues, political activism, and intellectual discourse. Artists in this style use their music to address topics such as racial inequality, police brutality, poverty, and the struggles of marginalized communities. The lyrical content is often introspective and critical of mainstream culture and politics.
Pioneers of conscious hip-hop include groups like Public Enemy, whose politically charged lyrics called for activism and change, and artists like Mos Def, Common, and Talib Kweli, who brought a more introspective, philosophical approach to their music.
Impact and Legacy: Conscious hip-hop has had a significant impact on the broader culture by providing a platform for important social discussions. While it may not have achieved the commercial success of more mainstream styles like gangsta rap or trap, it has earned respect for its intellectual and moral depth. Artists like Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole continue to carry the torch of conscious hip-hop in the modern era.
5. Alternative Hip-Hop
Alternative hip-hop refers to a broad category of artists and sounds that deviate from mainstream hip-hop conventions. This subgenre emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s as artists sought to experiment with different lyrical themes, musical styles, and production techniques.
Alternative hip-hop can encompass a wide range of sounds, from the jazz-influenced beats of A Tribe Called Quest to the genre-bending approach of OutKast. It often incorporates elements from other musical genres, including rock, electronic, and even punk.
Impact and Legacy: Alternative hip-hop has been a breeding ground for innovation, allowing artists to push the boundaries of what hip-hop can be. It paved the way for future experimentation within the genre, influencing modern artists like Tyler, The Creator, and Childish Gambino, who continue to blend genres and challenge hip-hop norms.
6. Drill Music
Drill music is a relatively recent subgenre that originated in Chicago in the early 2010s. It is characterized by its dark, violent, and often nihilistic lyrical content, which reflects the harsh realities of life in the city’s most dangerous neighborhoods. The beats are typically slow and menacing, featuring heavy bass and sparse instrumentation.
Pioneers of drill include artists like Chief Keef, Lil Durk, and King Louie, who used the genre to tell the stories of life in Chicago’s streets. The subgenre has since spread to other cities, including London, where UK drill has become a dominant force in the local music scene.
Impact and Legacy: Drill has become a controversial but influential subgenre within hip-hop. Its stark portrayal of street violence has sparked debates about the glorification of crime, but it has also provided a voice for marginalized communities. The genre’s global reach is a testament to its cultural impact.
7. Lofi Hip-Hop
Lofi hip-hop is a subgenre that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly through online platforms like YouTube and streaming services. The term “lofi” refers to the low-fidelity, unpolished sound of the music, which often includes imperfections like vinyl crackle, background noise, and off-beat rhythms.
Lofi hip-hop is characterized by its laid-back, mellow beats, which are often used as background music for studying, relaxing, or working. The subgenre is largely instrumental, with the focus on the production rather than lyrics.
Impact and Legacy: Lofi hip-hop has carved out a unique niche within the broader hip-hop culture. While it lacks the aggressive energy of other subgenres, it has become a popular choice for listeners seeking a more calming, meditative experience. Its rise in popularity is a testament to the versatility of hip-hop as a genre.
See Also: How Did Hip Hop Spread?
Conclusion
Hip-hop culture has spawned a diverse array of subgenres, each contributing to the richness and complexity of the genre as a whole. From the socially conscious lyrics of conscious hip-hop to the dark, gritty beats of drill, hip-hop’s subgenres reflect the wide range of experiences and perspectives within the culture. As hip-hop continues to evolve, new subgenres will likely emerge, pushing the boundaries of what the genre can be. In many ways, hip-hop’s ability to adapt and transform is what makes it one of the most enduring and influential cultural movements of our time.
