Cloud rap is a subgenre of hip hop that blends atmospheric beats with introspective lyrics. This style is characterized by dreamy soundscapes and a laid-back vibe. Artists in this genre often explore themes of escapism, personal struggles, and urban life. Cloud rap has gained popularity in recent years, attracting a diverse audience. In this article, we will explore some of the most influential cloud rap artists and their notable works. Each artist will be discussed in detail, highlighting their unique contributions to the genre.
20 Must-Follow Cloud Rap Artists Revealed
1. Lil B
Lil B, known as “The BasedGod,” is a pioneering figure in cloud rap. His music is characterized by its unconventional style and eclectic beats. Lil B often uses lo-fi production, creating a dreamy atmosphere in his tracks. Songs like “Wonton Soup” showcase his unique flow and abstract lyrics. His approach to music is experimental, often blending elements of rap, pop, and even spoken word. Lil B’s influence extends beyond music, as he promotes positivity and individuality. His extensive discography includes countless mixtapes, each offering a glimpse into his creative mind.
2. A$AP Rocky
A$AP Rocky is a prominent artist in the cloud rap scene, known for his smooth delivery and atmospheric beats. His debut album, “Long.Live.A$AP,” features tracks like “Purple Swag,” which highlight his unique sound. Rocky often collaborates with other artists and producers, creating a rich sonic landscape. His lyrics often touch on themes of love, fame, and personal struggles, all delivered with a laid-back vibe. Rocky’s fashion sense and artistic vision have made him a cultural icon, further elevating the genre. His ability to blend cloud rap with other styles keeps his music fresh and relevant.
3. Clams Casino
Clams Casino is a producer who has greatly influenced the sound of cloud rap. His beats are atmospheric and layered, creating a dreamy backdrop for the artists he collaborates with. Tracks like “I’m God” exemplify his signature style, blending ethereal sounds with hip hop elements. Clams Casino has worked with several prominent artists, including Lil B and A$AP Rocky, enhancing their tracks with his unique production. His work has paved the way for other producers in the genre, establishing him as a key figure in cloud rap.
4. Yung Lean
Yung Lean, a Swedish rapper, is known for his unique style and emotive lyrics. He gained fame with his track “Ginseng Strip 2002,” which features haunting melodies and introspective themes. Lean’s music often explores feelings of isolation and longing, resonating with listeners. His collaborative work with producers like Bladee has further defined his sound within the cloud rap genre. Yung Lean’s aesthetic, often characterized by melancholy visuals and a dreamy atmosphere, has influenced a new generation of artists. His impact on cloud rap is significant, marking him as an essential figure in the genre.
5. Bones
Bones is a prolific artist known for his extensive discography and unique approach to cloud rap. His music often features dark, atmospheric beats paired with introspective lyrics. Songs like “RestInPeace” highlight his ability to blend emotional themes with a gritty sound. Bones has maintained a DIY ethos, releasing music independently and building a dedicated fanbase. His influence can be seen in the rise of other underground artists, and his work has helped to define the sound of modern cloud rap. Bones’ dedication to his craft and willingness to experiment make him a standout artist in the genre.
6. Lil Peep
Lil Peep was a transformative figure in cloud rap, merging elements of emo and hip hop. His music often addressed themes of heartbreak, addiction, and mental health, resonating deeply with fans. Tracks like “Star Shopping” showcase his melodic approach and emotive delivery. Peep’s aesthetic, characterized by a blend of punk and hip hop influences, has left a lasting impact on the genre. His collaborations with producers like GothBoiClique helped define his sound, which remains influential even after his untimely passing. Lil Peep’s legacy continues to inspire artists and fans alike.
7. Bladee
Bladee is a Swedish rapper and member of the Drain Gang collective, known for his ethereal sound and abstract lyrics. His music often features dreamy beats and autotuned vocals, creating a unique atmosphere. Tracks like “Be Nice 2 Me” exemplify his signature style, blending elements of cloud rap with experimental production. Bladee’s collaborations with producers like Yung Lean and Ecco2k have further solidified his place in the genre. His art often explores themes of identity and self-expression, making him a notable figure in cloud rap.
8. Ecco2k
Ecco2k, a member of Drain Gang, is known for his innovative approach to cloud rap. His music features a blend of atmospheric production and introspective lyrics. Tracks like “Flawd” showcase his unique sound, combining elements of hip hop with experimental influences. Ecco2k’s aesthetic often incorporates visuals that reflect his artistic vision, further enhancing the themes present in his music. His collaborations with fellow Drain Gang members have helped define the modern sound of cloud rap, making him an essential artist in the genre.
9. $uicideboy$
$uicideboy$ is a duo that has gained significant recognition in the cloud rap scene. Their music often features dark themes and aggressive delivery, contrasting with the more laid-back sounds of other cloud rap artists. Tracks like “Paris” showcase their unique blend of heavy beats and introspective lyrics. $uicideboy$ addresses topics such as mental health and struggles with addiction, resonating with many fans. Their DIY approach to music and independent releases have contributed to their growing popularity within the genre.
10. Kid Cudi
Kid Cudi is often credited with influencing the sound of cloud rap through his introspective lyrics and atmospheric beats. His album “Man on the Moon” features tracks like “Day ‘n’ Nite,” which showcase his unique blend of hip hop and emotional themes. Cudi’s music often explores feelings of loneliness and existentialism, resonating with listeners. His ability to combine genres has paved the way for many cloud rap artists. Kid Cudi’s impact on hip hop and cloud rap is undeniable, making him a key figure in the evolution of the genre.
11. Ghostemane
Ghostemane is an artist known for his fusion of cloud rap, metal, and industrial sounds. His music features heavy beats and aggressive vocals, creating a unique atmosphere within the genre. Tracks like “Mercury: Retrograde” showcase his ability to blend different influences while maintaining a cloud rap aesthetic. Ghostemane often addresses themes of mental health and existentialism in his lyrics, resonating with fans who relate to his struggles. His genre-blending approach has garnered a diverse following, making him a standout figure in the cloud rap scene.
12. Night Lovell
Night Lovell is a Canadian rapper known for his deep voice and atmospheric beats. His music often features dark, moody production, creating a unique listening experience. Tracks like “Dark Light” highlight his introspective lyrics and haunting melodies. Night Lovell’s sound embodies the essence of cloud rap, exploring themes of isolation and inner struggles. His ability to create a captivating atmosphere has earned him a dedicated fanbase. Night Lovell’s contributions to cloud rap continue to resonate with listeners, solidifying his place in the genre.
13. Xavier Wulf
Xavier Wulf is a prominent figure in the underground rap scene, known for his energetic delivery and atmospheric beats. His music often combines elements of cloud rap and trap, creating a distinctive sound. Tracks like “Psycho Pass” showcase his unique flow and engaging lyrics. Wulf’s collaborations with producers like Bones have helped shape his sound, further defining his place in cloud rap. His dedication to his craft and willingness to experiment make him a standout artist in the genre.
14. Fat Nick
Fat Nick is an underground rapper known for his distinctive style and energetic delivery. His music often features playful lyrics and catchy beats, blending elements of cloud rap and trap. Tracks like “I Can’t Feel My Face” highlight his ability to create a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Fat Nick’s collaborations with other artists in the cloud rap scene have helped him build a dedicated fanbase. His unique approach to music and willingness to experiment make him a notable figure in the genre.
15. $ki Mask the Slump God
$ki Mask the Slump God is known for his rapid-fire delivery and playful lyrics. His music often features experimental beats and catchy hooks, embodying the essence of cloud rap. Tracks like “Catch Me Outside” showcase his unique style and ability to engage listeners. $ki Mask’s collaborations with artists in the cloud rap scene have helped define his sound, making him a prominent figure in the genre. His energetic performances and willingness to experiment keep his music fresh and exciting.
16. Young Thug
Young Thug is an influential artist known for his unique vocal style and genre-blending approach. His music often features atmospheric production and introspective lyrics, aligning with the themes of cloud rap. Tracks like “Best Friend” showcase his ability to create catchy hooks while exploring personal themes. Young Thug’s collaborations with various artists have further expanded his influence, making him a key figure in modern hip hop. His innovative approach to music continues to inspire a new generation of artists within the genre.
17. J. Cole
J. Cole is a celebrated artist known for his introspective lyrics and atmospheric production. His album “2014 Forest Hills Drive” features tracks like “Wet Dream,” which showcase his storytelling ability. J. Cole often addresses personal struggles and societal issues in his music, resonating with listeners. His ability to blend elements of cloud rap with traditional hip hop has solidified his place in the genre. J. Cole’s impact on hip hop is profound, making him a significant figure in the evolution of cloud rap.
18. Denzel Curry
Denzel Curry is known for his energetic delivery and thought-provoking lyrics. His music often features a blend of cloud rap and aggressive hip hop, creating a unique sound. Tracks like “Ultimate” highlight his lyrical skill and ability to engage listeners. Curry’s collaborations with other artists in the genre have helped define his sound, further establishing him as a key figure in cloud rap. His willingness to experiment with different styles keeps his music fresh and relevant.
19. Trippie Redd
Trippie Redd is an artist known for his melodic approach to cloud rap. His music often blends elements of emo and hip hop, creating a distinct sound. Tracks like “Love Scars” showcase his ability to create catchy melodies while exploring emotional themes. Trippie Redd’s collaborations with other artists in the cloud rap scene have helped him build a dedicated fanbase. His unique style and willingness to experiment make him a notable figure in the genre.
20. ILOVEMAKONNEN
ILOVEMAKONNEN is known for his unique sound that blends cloud rap with catchy hooks. His track “Tuesday” gained widespread recognition, showcasing his ability to create a fun, laid-back atmosphere. ILOVEMAKONNEN’s music often explores themes of nightlife and personal experiences, resonating with listeners. His collaborations with artists in the cloud rap scene have further defined his sound, making him a prominent figure in the genre. His distinctive style and engaging lyrics keep his music fresh and appealing.
See Also: What Is the Techno Rap?
Conclusion
Cloud rap is a dynamic subgenre that continues to evolve, drawing in new artists and fans alike. The artists highlighted in this article have made significant contributions to the genre, each bringing their unique style and perspective. From the introspective lyrics of Lil B to the atmospheric beats of Clams Casino, cloud rap offers a diverse range of sounds and themes. As the genre continues to grow, it remains a powerful platform for artists to express their creativity and connect with listeners. The impact of these cloud rap artists will resonate for years to come, shaping the future of hip hop and music as a whole.
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