NewMusic
Discover Hip-Hop
Explore hip-hop music, new rap releases, influential artists, regional sounds and the beats, flows and storytelling driving the culture.
What is Hip-Hop music?
Hip-hop music brings rhythm, language and production into close conversation. Rappers use flow, rhyme and storytelling over beats that can range from sparse drum loops to dense, sample-based or electronic arrangements.
Origins
Hip-hop emerged in the Bronx during the 1970s through DJing, MCing, breakdance and graffiti, with deep roots in African American, Caribbean and Latin communities.
The sound
Rhythmic vocal delivery, prominent drums, bass, sampling and inventive production define much of the genre. Its many regional schools have distinct tempos, slang and production signatures.
Culture and influence
Beyond recordings, hip-hop is a global culture of style, community, competition and social commentary. Artists often document everyday life while continually reshaping language and popular music.
Key characteristics
- rap flows
- drum-led beats
- sampling
- storytelling
- regional styles
Explore related genres
About Hip-Hop music
What defines Hip-Hop music?
Rhythmic vocal delivery, prominent drums, bass, sampling and inventive production define much of the genre. Its many regional schools have distinct tempos, slang and production signatures.
Where did Hip-Hop music come from?
Hip-hop emerged in the Bronx during the 1970s through DJing, MCing, breakdance and graffiti, with deep roots in African American, Caribbean and Latin communities.
What should I listen for?
Listen for rap flows, drum-led beats, sampling, storytelling, regional styles. Beyond recordings, hip-hop is a global culture of style, community, competition and social commentary. Artists often document everyday life while continually reshaping language and popular music.