Scam rap is a subgenre of rap that has been gaining traction in recent years. It blends traditional elements of trap and cloud rap with lyrics that often focus on themes of hustle, scams, and street life. The genre draws influence from the experiences of individuals who navigate the underground world of scams, fraud, and illegal activities. Often, scam rap features catchy beats, trap-style production, and a heavy focus on themes like wealth, deception, and survival.
While scam rap may seem like a niche subgenre, it is rapidly growing in popularity, with artists who have found unique ways to merge storytelling, street culture, and music. The lyrics in scam rap are often exaggerated or presented with a sense of humor, and they reflect the mindset of hustlers who pride themselves on their ability to manipulate situations and make quick money. Scam rap’s accessibility, memorable hooks, and hard-hitting beats make it a genre that has struck a chord with young listeners across the globe.
In this article, we will introduce you to some of the most prominent scam rap artists, featuring recommended tracks that will give you a sense of the genre’s energy, sound, and themes. Whether you’re new to scam rap or are looking for some of the genre’s hottest songs, these tracks will give you a great overview of what scam rap has to offer.
12 Must-follow Scam Rap Artists Revealed
1. Ski Mask the Slump God – “Catch Me Outside”
Ski Mask the Slump God is one of the most well-known scam rap artists, often credited with popularizing the genre. His song “Catch Me Outside” became an instant hit due to its catchy flow, memorable hook, and humorous, outlandish lyrics. The track features Ski Mask’s signature fast-paced delivery and playful references to scams and street life, as well as his ability to manipulate rhythms and flows to create an infectious vibe. The song’s production mixes trap beats with energetic, synth-driven elements that make it stand out in the genre. “Catch Me Outside” is a perfect example of Ski Mask’s unique style—combining humor, wordplay, and a sense of mischief that defines scam rap.
2. Lil Skies – “Red Roses” (ft. Landon Cube)
Lil Skies’ “Red Roses” is a standout track in the scam rap scene. While the song isn’t as direct in its references to scams as some other tracks in the genre, it captures the carefree, high-energy vibe that scam rap artists are known for. Featuring Landon Cube, “Red Roses” blends trap elements with melodic hooks and reflective lyrics about the pursuit of success and the chaotic lifestyle that often accompanies it. The song’s vibe, which mixes darker themes of street life with catchy melodies, makes it a great introduction to Lil Skies’ music and the broader scam rap subgenre.
3. Xxxtentacion – “Look at Me!”
Although not a traditional scam rapper, XXXTentacion’s music often touches on themes of rebellion, survival, and hustling, which resonate with the ethos of scam rap. “Look at Me!” was one of his breakout hits and remains one of his most iconic tracks. The song’s aggressive delivery, distorted vocals, and raw energy make it a perfect fit for listeners who enjoy scam rap’s in-your-face style. The lyrics in “Look at Me!” discuss defiance, self-empowerment, and the confidence that comes with overcoming adversity—topics that are often explored in scam rap culture. The track’s hard-hitting production and chaotic vibe have made it a standout hit.
4. Lil Uzi Vert – “Money Longer”
Lil Uzi Vert is known for blending elements of trap, emo rap, and scam rap into his unique sound. “Money Longer,” one of his early hits, is a track that captures Uzi’s playful yet confident persona. The song’s lyrics explore themes of money, fame, and the hustle, which are staples in scam rap. The hook of the song is infectious, with Uzi singing about how his life has changed since he started making money. “Money Longer” is a reflection of the lavish lifestyle that scam rappers often talk about, and its upbeat, catchy production makes it a must-listen for beginners interested in scam rap.
5. Juice WRLD – “Legends”
While Juice WRLD is more commonly associated with emo rap, many of his tracks contain themes related to hustle and survival, which tie into scam rap. “Legends,” one of his most popular songs, speaks to the fast-paced nature of life, the pressures of fame, and the pursuit of wealth. The song has a reflective and introspective tone, touching on Juice WRLD’s own experiences with fame and loss. The track’s lyrics, combined with the atmospheric production, give listeners a sense of the highs and lows of a hustler’s life—core themes in the world of scam rap. Juice WRLD’s emotional delivery and candidness make this track essential listening for anyone exploring scam rap.
6. Smokepurpp – “Audi”
Smokepurpp is a prominent figure in the scam rap scene, and his song “Audi” is a perfect example of his ability to blend street hustle culture with catchy beats. The track is about living a fast life, securing money, and showing off his success with references to expensive cars and designer clothes. The heavy bass and repetitive beat make it a song that’s perfect for parties and in-your-face moments. Smokepurpp’s playful delivery and braggadocious lyrics make “Audi” one of the standout tracks in the scam rap subgenre, capturing the essence of flexing and living large.
7. Lil Baby – “Freestyle”
Lil Baby’s “Freestyle” is a track that combines his talent for rapid-fire flow with themes of hustling and success. While Lil Baby’s lyrics often focus on street life and the hustle for money, “Freestyle” specifically highlights the rapper’s ability to rise above his circumstances and achieve success. The song’s catchy hook and raw delivery make it an anthem for anyone in pursuit of wealth, recognition, and power. In scam rap, it’s all about using your wits and ambition to escape your situation, and “Freestyle” is a track that embodies this attitude. Lil Baby’s confidence and energy shine through, making it an essential song for newcomers to scam rap.
8. Trippie Redd – “Dark Knight Dummo” (ft. Travis Scott)
Trippie Redd’s “Dark Knight Dummo,” featuring Travis Scott, is a high-energy scam rap anthem that blends elements of trap, cloud rap, and even rock influences. The song has a hard-hitting beat and both Trippie Redd and Travis Scott deliver their verses with confidence and flair. The lyrics touch on themes of success, fame, and living a dangerous lifestyle, reflecting the hustle mentality that is central to scam rap. With its memorable hook and aggressive production, “Dark Knight Dummo” is a powerful track that will appeal to fans of scam rap who enjoy music that reflects the fast-paced, chaotic life of hustlers.
9. Lil Keed – “Nameless”
Lil Keed’s “Nameless” is a melodic trap song that touches on the themes of fame, money, and the constant hustle that define scam rap. The song’s haunting production and melodic elements give it a slightly darker vibe, while Lil Keed’s flow and catchy hook make it accessible for listeners. In “Nameless,” Lil Keed raps about his rise to success and how fame has changed his life, touching on the internal struggles that come with sudden wealth and attention. The song is perfect for anyone who wants to explore scam rap’s more reflective side, offering a balance between vulnerability and confidence.
10. Lil Yachty – “Oprah’s Bank Account” (ft. Drake & DaBaby)
Lil Yachty’s “Oprah’s Bank Account” featuring Drake and DaBaby is an upbeat track that showcases the lavish lifestyle associated with scam rap. The song features lighthearted, playful lyrics about wealth, fame, and the ability to secure a bag with ease. The production is bouncy and energetic, complementing the humorous and confident delivery from all three artists. The song’s lyrics reflect the carefree attitude that often comes with scam rap, making it an essential track for anyone looking to dive into the genre. Lil Yachty’s fun approach to the song adds an element of humor and swagger to the overall vibe.
11. Lil Tracy – “Like a Farmer”
Lil Tracy’s “Like a Farmer” is another standout track that mixes elements of scam rap with a more melodic, emo-infused style. The song features catchy, repetitive lines that reflect Lil Tracy’s life on the grind and his experiences with the ups and downs of hustling. The upbeat trap production complements Lil Tracy’s unique vocal delivery, creating a song that’s both reflective and energizing. The lyrics, while focused on success and overcoming obstacles, also touch on themes of self-doubt and perseverance, offering a nuanced view of the scam rap lifestyle.
12. Lil Pump – “Gucci Gang”
Lil Pump’s “Gucci Gang” is a defining track in the scam rap genre, capturing the braggadocious attitude that characterizes much of the subgenre. The song’s repetitive hook and minimalistic trap beat make it both catchy and easy to dance to. The lyrics focus on wealth, designer brands, and the flashy lifestyle that comes with success, which is a central theme in scam rap. “Gucci Gang” is one of Lil Pump’s most well-known songs, and its popularity in the scam rap community speaks to the genre’s emphasis on materialism and success.
See Also: 8 Influential M.O.P. Rap Tracks You Should Know
Conclusion
Scam rap is a dynamic and rapidly growing subgenre of hip-hop that reflects the hustle and ambition of those trying to make it in a world of deception, scams, and quick money. Whether through humorous lyrics, catchy beats, or reflections on the high life, scam rap offers an exciting window into street culture and the chase for wealth and success. From the braggadocious flexes of Ski Mask the Slump God and Lil Uzi Vert to the more introspective tracks by Juice WRLD and Lil Skies, scam rap is a genre that can speak to many different moods and emotions. The artists featured in this article are just the beginning of the scam rap wave. As the genre continues to evolve, these tracks will serve as a great introduction to the world of scam rap for both new listeners and long-time fans alike.
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