Hick hop is a unique blend of country and hip-hop music. It combines the storytelling and rural themes of country music with the beats, rhythm, and lyrical flow of hip-hop. This genre has grown in popularity as more artists experiment with blending traditional country sounds with modern rap elements. Fans of hick hop love its catchy beats, relatable lyrics, and genre-defying energy.
The term “hick hop” was coined to describe this fusion of two distinct styles. While traditionalists initially resisted the concept, the genre has since built a loyal following. From the backroads to the big stage, hick hop artists are proving that music has no boundaries. Below is a list of some of the best hick hop artists, each bringing their own unique flavor to this growing musical movement.
Top 8 Icon Hick Hop Artists of All the Time
1. Colt Ford
Colt Ford is often considered the godfather of hick hop. He is a trailblazer in the genre, blending country twang with hip-hop beats. Ford’s songs celebrate country living, hard work, and Southern pride. His breakout hit, “Ride Through the Country”, is a prime example of hick hop done right. Featuring John Michael Montgomery, the song mixes laid-back rap verses with a country-style chorus. Ford’s storytelling is vivid, painting pictures of rural life. His music connects with audiences who appreciate the values of family, freedom, and fun.
2. Bubba Sparxxx
Bubba Sparxxx is one of the earliest mainstream artists to combine country themes with hip-hop production. His hit song “Deliverance” is a masterpiece that blends Southern gospel elements with hip-hop beats. The music video, which shows Sparxxx in rural settings, further drives home the country aesthetic. Sparxxx’s unique voice and smooth flow stand out, and his ability to craft emotional, introspective lyrics is unmatched. As one of the first artists to bring hick hop to a mainstream audience, Bubba Sparxxx is a key figure in the genre’s history.
3. The Lacs
The Lacs (short for “Loud Ass Crackers”) are a dynamic duo known for their hard-hitting country rap anthems. Their music blends Southern rock guitar riffs with thumping hip-hop beats. Tracks like “Kickin’ Up Mud” are party anthems filled with references to mud trucks, bonfires, and good times in the backwoods. Their playful lyrics and infectious energy make them a fan favorite in the hick hop scene. The Lacs’ music is all about having fun, and their concerts are known for their rowdy, high-energy atmosphere.
4. Upchurch
Upchurch, also known as Ryan Upchurch, is one of the most prolific artists in the hick hop genre. His songs combine rap, country, and even elements of rock, giving him a crossover appeal. One of his biggest hits, “Rolling Stoned,” is a laid-back track that highlights his smooth delivery and clever wordplay. Upchurch’s music often reflects his rural upbringing and Southern pride, while his raw, unfiltered lyrics resonate with fans. His independent approach to music production has made him a symbol of creative freedom in the industry.
5. Jelly Roll
Jelly Roll is a versatile artist who blends country, hip-hop, and blues influences. His powerful vocals and raw, emotional lyrics set him apart from other hick hop artists. Songs like “Save Me” showcase his ability to deliver deeply emotional ballads while maintaining a Southern hip-hop sound. His music addresses personal struggles, addiction, and redemption, giving his songs a raw authenticity. Jelly Roll’s powerful voice and relatable storytelling have earned him a massive following, and he continues to break genre barriers with his unique sound.
6. Demun Jones
Demun Jones brings a fresh and vibrant energy to the hick hop genre. Formerly a member of the band Rehab, he later pursued a solo career that focuses on Southern rap and country themes. One of his standout tracks, “Country Fried,” is a celebration of rural living. The song’s catchy hook and high-energy beat make it an instant party anthem. Demun Jones’ music celebrates Southern pride, hard work, and simple pleasures, all delivered with his smooth, rapid-fire flow and country charm.
7. Struggle Jennings
Struggle Jennings blends outlaw country, rap, and Southern rock into a powerful musical force. As the grandson of country legend Waylon Jennings, Struggle carries on his family legacy while carving his own path. His hit track “God We Need You Now” is a gritty, socially conscious song that addresses issues like division and the need for unity. His music often has a darker, more introspective tone than traditional hick hop songs. Struggle Jennings’ lyrics are honest, raw, and filled with emotional weight.
8. Big Smo
Big Smo is a larger-than-life figure in the hick hop world. His reality TV show, Big Smo, introduced his music to a broader audience. Known for his charismatic personality and powerful stage presence, Big Smo is a fan favorite. His hit track “Kickin’ It in Tennessee” is a quintessential hick hop anthem, celebrating country life, bonfires, and good times with friends. With heavy beats and catchy hooks, Big Smo’s music blends rap energy with down-home Southern charm.
See Also: Unveiling the Essence of Country Music: 6 Key Traits You Need to Know
Conclusion
Hick hop is a genre that embraces country roots while incorporating the beats and flow of hip-hop. Artists like Colt Ford, Bubba Sparxxx, and The Lacs have defined the sound, while newcomers like Upchurch and Adam Calhoun continue to push its boundaries. Hick hop celebrates rural pride, love of family, and the simple pleasures of country living.
The artists on this list have proven that music knows no boundaries. By blending two very different styles, they have created something unique, authentic, and relatable. Hick hop continues to grow, and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down. If you’re looking for music that makes you want to roll down the windows and hit the backroads, these hick hop artists should be on your playlist.
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