The Most Popular Type of Rap, Ranked

Choose the type you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 29, 2024 07:19
Rap music, with its rich diversity of styles and subgenres, constantly shifts and evolves through the influence of new artists and cultural trends. It can be a challenge to keep track of which trends are currently capturing the public's interest. Having a clear, community-driven ranking of what's popular helps fans new and old navigate the dynamic landscape of rap. By casting a vote on your preferred type of rap, you contribute to a broader understanding of which styles resonate the most in the current music scene. This live ranking is not only a reflection of collective taste but also an informative tool that can introduce you to subgenres you might not have explored. It's a dynamic, user-focused way to gauge what's trending in the world of rap music today.

What Is the Most Popular Type of Rap?

  1. 1
    68
    votes

    Trap

    A subgenre of hip hop music that originated in the Southern United States during the early 2000s. It is characterized by its aggressive lyrical content and sound.
    • Key Artists: Gucci Mane, T.I., Young Jeezy
  2. 2
    16
    votes

    Drill

    A style of trap music that originated in the South Side of Chicago in the early 2010s. It is defined by its dark, grim, violent lyrical content and trap-influenced beats.
    • Key Artists: Chief Keef, Lil Durk, King Von
  3. 3
    0
    votes

    Mumble Rap

    A microgenre of hip hop that largely focuses on the sound and feel of the music rather than lyrical content. It has been criticized and praised for its unique style and aesthetic.
    • Key Artists: Future, Lil Uzi Vert, Migos
  4. 4
    0
    votes

    Gangsta Rap

    A style of hip hop characterized by themes and lyrics that generally emphasize the 'gangsta' lifestyle. The genre evolved from hardcore rap into a distinct form, pioneered in the mid-1980s by rappers such as Ice-T and later by groups like N.W.A.
    • Key Artists: N.W.A, Ice-T, Tupac Shakur
  5. 5
    0
    votes

    Conscious Hip Hop

    A subgenre of hip hop that challenges the dominant cultural, political, philosophical, and economic consensus, and/or comments on social issues and conflicts. It is characterized by its thoughtful, socially conscious lyrics.
    • Key Artists: Kendrick Lamar, Common, Talib Kweli
  6. 6
    0
    votes

    East Coast Hip Hop

    A regional genre of hip hop music that originated in New York City during the 1970s. It is characterized by complex lyrics, complex rhythms, and an aggressive style.
    • Key Artists: The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, Nas
  7. 7
    0
    votes

    West Coast Hip Hop

    A style of hip hop music that originated in California in the early 1980s. It has since grown into a major force in hip hop music, focusing more on party and dance aspects.
    • Key Artists: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Tupac Shakur
  8. 8
    0
    votes

    Boom Bap

    A style of hip hop production associated with East Coast hip hop that became popular in the 1990s. It is characterized by beats with a hard bass drum and snapping snare that is often accompanied by the chopped up samples of hard funk and soul.
    • Key Artists: KRS-One, Nas, Joey Bada$$
  9. 9
    0
    votes

    Hyphy

    A style of hip hop music originating from the San Francisco Bay Area during the late 1990s. It is distinguished by its upbeat tempo, energetic delivery, and incorporation of dance and car culture.
    • Key Artists: E-40, Keak Da Sneak, Mac Dre
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Emo Rap

    A genre that blends elements of hip hop music with emo music. Emo rap emphasizes emotional expression and often features themes of sadness, existential angst, and personal turmoil.
    • Key Artists: Lil Peep, XXXTentacion, Juice WRLD

Missing your favorite type?

Graphs
Error: Failed to render graph
Discussion
No discussion started, be the first!

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular type of Rap. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or type is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1957 views
  • 84 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each type once every 24 hours. The rank of each type is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Type of Rap

Trap
Rank #1 for the most popular type of Rap: Trap (Source)
Rap music has evolved over the years. At its core, rap is a mix of rhythm, rhyme, and vocal expression. It started in urban communities and grew into a global phenomenon. The most popular type of rap today combines catchy beats with clever lyrics.

This style of rap often features a strong, repetitive beat. Producers use drum machines and samples to create these beats. The rhythm is crucial. It drives the song and keeps the listener engaged. The beat is usually simple but effective. It allows the rapper's voice to stand out.

Lyrics in this type of rap are key. They often tell a story or convey a message. The words can be about anything, from personal struggles to party anthems. The best rappers have a unique voice and style. They use wordplay, metaphors, and punchlines to keep their audience hooked. The flow, or the way the rapper delivers the words, is also important. A good flow can make even simple lyrics sound impressive.

This popular rap style also includes hooks. A hook is a catchy phrase or chorus that repeats throughout the song. It's designed to be memorable. The hook often gets stuck in the listener's head after just one listen. This makes the song more likely to be played again and again.

Collaboration is common in this type of rap. Rappers often work with other artists, including singers and other rappers. These collaborations can add variety to a song. They can also introduce the rapper to new audiences.

The rise of digital platforms has helped this rap style grow. Social media and streaming services make it easy to share music. Rappers can reach a global audience without needing a record deal. This has led to a more diverse range of voices in the genre.

Fashion and image are also important. Rappers often have a distinct look that sets them apart. This can include unique clothing, hairstyles, and accessories. Their image helps them connect with fans and build a brand.

Live performances are a big part of this rap style. Concerts and festivals give rappers a chance to showcase their skills. A good live show can boost a rapper's reputation and help them gain new fans.

This type of rap has faced criticism. Some people argue that it focuses too much on materialism and negative themes. Others say it lacks the depth of older rap styles. Despite this, it remains incredibly popular. Its catchy beats and clever lyrics continue to attract listeners.

In summary, the most popular type of rap today is characterized by strong beats, clever lyrics, and catchy hooks. It thrives on collaboration and the use of digital platforms. Fashion and live performances also play a key role. While it has its critics, its appeal shows no signs of fading. This style of rap continues to dominate the charts and influence culture worldwide.

Share this article