Hardcore trap is a subgenre of trap music that takes the genre’s hard-hitting beats and aggressive lyrical content to another level. Known for its dark, intense soundscapes, booming bass, and confrontational lyrics, hardcore trap pushes the boundaries of hip-hop and electronic music. This style fuses elements of traditional trap with a more intense, industrial, and sometimes punk-influenced approach. Hardcore trap isn’t just about the beats—it’s about the raw energy, the fearless attitude, and the defiance against mainstream conventions. In this article, we’ll explore 11 hardcore trap hits that have defined the genre and made their mark on listeners worldwide.
11 Raw Hardcore Trap Hits to Listen to
1. “Look At Me!” – XXXTentacion
XXXTentacion’s breakout hit “Look At Me!” exemplifies the aggressive, raw energy that defines hardcore trap. The track is built around distorted, heavily processed vocals and a minimalist beat that feels as if it’s about to explode at any moment. The chaotic, almost anarchic structure of the song mirrors the defiant tone of the lyrics, where X taunts his critics and confronts societal expectations. “Look At Me!” is a true hardcore trap anthem, combining punk-inspired energy with trap’s trademark bass-heavy production. The track’s unpredictable shifts and intense delivery made it an underground classic.
2. “Gummo” – 6ix9ine
6ix9ine’s “Gummo” is one of the most iconic hardcore trap songs of the modern era. Known for its aggressive delivery and infectious energy, the track features booming 808s and menacing, distorted beats. 6ix9ine’s rapid-fire, almost confrontational flow adds to the song’s volatile atmosphere. The chorus is simple yet powerful, making it a banger for any hype-filled environment. With its in-your-face lyrics and relentless beat, “Gummo” solidified 6ix9ine’s place in the hardcore trap scene, turning his unique style into a trend that influenced countless artists to come.
3. “No Flockin” – Kodak Black
Kodak Black’s “No Flockin” was a significant turning point in hardcore trap, blending the genre’s signature hard-hitting beats with the rapper’s unrelenting, unapologetic delivery. The song’s hypnotic, low-tempo beat is matched by Kodak’s sharp, almost snarling vocals. His lyrical content speaks to his street life and disregard for societal norms. The combination of catchy melodies and tough lyrics made “No Flockin” an instant trap anthem, setting a blueprint for other artists in the hardcore trap scene. The track’s influence can still be heard in the work of newer trap artists today.
4. “Kodak Black” – Tunnel Vision
“Kodak Black” offers another hard-hitting track that dives deeper into the aggressive and raw side of trap. The track is a prime example of Kodak’s signature style: smooth but gritty flows laid over thumping bass and minimalistic production. “Tunnel Vision” delivers an empowering message, with Kodak reflecting on his rise from difficult circumstances while keeping a defiant tone throughout. The intense beat and hypnotic rhythm of the song convey a sense of urgency and determination. The song became one of Kodak’s most successful releases, contributing to the hardcore trap wave that continues to dominate.
5. “SICKO MODE” – Travis Scott
While Travis Scott is known for his versatility, “SICKO MODE” is a prime example of his exploration of hardcore trap. The song features multiple beat switches, hard-hitting bass, and high-energy flows that combine to create an intense listening experience. Scott’s use of autotune adds an eerie, futuristic quality to the track, while his aggressive delivery in the verses contrasts with the ethereal, almost otherworldly sections in between. “SICKO MODE” is a genre-defining track that helped elevate trap music to new levels, blending mainstream appeal with hardcore trap’s raw aggression and chaotic energy.
6. “PICK IT UP” – Famous Dex feat. A$AP Rocky
“PICK IT UP” is a high-energy hardcore trap anthem that blends heavy beats with catchy, almost frenetic deliveries from Famous Dex and A$AP Rocky. The beat is propelled by a rapid bassline, and the artists’ performances match the track’s frenetic energy. Famous Dex’s ad-libs and Rocky’s verse are delivered with precision, bringing a sense of playful aggression to the song. The track is a prime example of hardcore trap’s ability to be both aggressive and fun, with each artist adding their own layer of intensity to the already hard-hitting production.
7. “R.I.P. SCREW” – Travis Scott
“R.I.P. SCREW” is another hardcore trap banger by Travis Scott, heavily influenced by the Houston hip-hop scene. The track pays homage to the late DJ Screw and features hard, distorted beats that set the tone for the track’s rebellious spirit. Scott’s signature autotuned vocals deliver the track with a melodic edge while still maintaining that aggressive, trap-like energy. The song’s booming bass and high-pitched production elements make it feel like a sonic assault, keeping listeners on their toes. This track reflects the darker side of trap music, embodying the raw emotion and aggression associated with hardcore trap.
8. “Flocka” – Waka Flocka Flame
Waka Flocka Flame is one of the pioneers of hardcore trap, and “Flocka” is a quintessential example of his influence on the genre. The song features heavy bass and a raucous delivery from Waka, whose flow and delivery are known for their aggressive and hype-filled style. The beat is designed to make you move, with rapid percussion and rolling 808s providing the backbone of the track. “Flocka” is a perfect example of how hardcore trap fuses the energy of Southern hip-hop with a more aggressive, anthemic approach that fans of the genre gravitate toward.
9. “Bodak Yellow” – Cardi B
Cardi B’s “Bodak Yellow” is one of the tracks that brought a more mainstream audience to the hardcore trap genre. The song features an explosive beat that is both menacing and hypnotic. Cardi B’s delivery is brash, confident, and full of attitude, which made “Bodak Yellow” a perfect anthem for empowerment and defiance. The aggressive nature of the track, both lyrically and musically, fits perfectly within the hardcore trap mold, with the booming bass and catchy hooks making it a favorite for hype moments in clubs and parties.
10. “Be Like Me” – Lil Wayne feat. Logic
“Be Like Me” is a track that blends Lil Wayne’s classic, complex flow with Logic’s rapid-fire delivery. The song’s production is filled with deep, rumbling bass and high-pitched snare hits that give it a sharp, hard edge. The overall energy of the song is combative, with both rappers boasting about their respective success and talent. The dark, almost eerie beat complements the aggressive tone of the lyrics. “Be Like Me” is a standout example of how hardcore trap can fuse lyricism with intense beats and produce an anthem that resonates with fans of the genre.
11. “Wasted” – Juice WRLD feat. Lil Uzi Vert
“Wasted” is a hardcore trap song that seamlessly blends emo rap with trap’s signature hard bass and dark atmosphere. Juice WRLD and Lil Uzi Vert deliver their verses with an emotional intensity that complements the deep, atmospheric production. The track discusses themes of heartbreak, self-medication, and existential questioning, while the aggressive delivery of the rap verses gives the song an energetic, cathartic feel. “Wasted” is a perfect example of how hardcore trap can explore darker emotional themes while maintaining a fierce, high-energy presence.
See Also: Can You Tell Where Rap Music Is From by the Beat?
Conclusion
Hardcore trap is a subgenre that continues to evolve, driven by its unrelenting energy and emotionally charged performances. From the raw, unfiltered aggression of XXXTentacion’s “Look At Me!” to the dark, intense atmosphere of Travis Scott’s “SICKO MODE,” these tracks demonstrate the power of trap music to push the boundaries of hip-hop. The fusion of hard-hitting beats with aggressive lyrics creates an experience that resonates with fans looking for something more intense and impactful. Whether it’s the chaotic energy of 6ix9ine or the dark introspection of Future, hardcore trap remains a genre defined by its boldness and refusal to conform.
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