SoundCloud Rap

SoundCloud rap emerged as one of the most popular musical genres in the late 2010s. With its origins rooted in the online streaming platform, SoundCloud rap created a new wave of music that focused on young rappers’ raw talent and sound. Before the emergence of SoundCloud rap, hip-hop was dominated by the mainstream and major record labels. Only established rappers like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and J. Cole had a chance to top the charts. Younger rappers attempting to break into the industry had to go through a rigorous record label system that favored commercialism over artistic originality. However, a new platform called SoundCloud came along, and it soon attracted artists who could not gain mainstream recognition or opportunities. Artists like Lil Uzi Vert, 21 Savage, and XXXTentacion took advantage of SoundCloud’s democratic elements to share their music with the world. In its early days, SoundCloud was used mostly by DJs and electronica producers around the world. Within a year or two of the platform’s existence, an influx of DIY rap artists started uploading their own mixes and tracks. The genre of SoundCloud rap was born. SoundCloud rap is distinguished by its sound and its lyrics. The sound tends to be lo-fi, with the beats and basslines being heavily inspired by trap music. The lyrics are often dark, discussing themes of depression, drug abuse, and violence, often drawing from the artists' own experiences. As SoundCloud rap continued to grow and expand, new artists emerged, influencing and inspiring each other. With the help of SoundCloud, many rappers could gain audiences and build their fan base. One of the first successful SoundCloud rappers, Lil Uzi Vert, was able to get a deal with Atlantic records and achieve commercial success. His rise to fame inspired other SoundCloud rappers to pursue their dreams and believe in themselves. In 2017, XXXTentacion started gaining widespread attention with his track “Look at Me.” The song, with its roaring aggression and heavy bass, epitomized the SoundCloud rap movement. XXXTentacion’s tragic killing in 2018 brought even more attention to the genre. The world paused to reflect on the impact and influence of SoundCloud rap to that point. Some critics have criticized SoundCloud rap for its dark themes and lyrical content. Others have praised the genre's lo-fi innovation and its punk rock spirit of independence, free from the control of mainstream labels. Despite the criticism, SoundCloud rap’s influence on hip-hop culture is undeniable. The genre has brought a wave of young, fresh artists to the forefront, and encouraged listeners to engage with music that is non-commercial and original. At a time when the music industry was saturated with manufactured artists, SoundCloud rap brought back the excitement of discovering new, unique talents.

XXXTentacion:One of the pioneers of SoundCloud rap, XXXTentacion (Jahseh Onfroy) was known for his controversial lyrics, emotional vulnerability, and eclectic mix of genres. His debut album, 17, became a cult hit and his sophomore effort, ?, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. Lil Uzi Vert: With his signature style of melodic trap and punk rock-inspired sound, Lil Uzi Vert (Symere Woods) has become one of the most recognizable artists in SoundCloud rap. His hit single, "XO TOUR Llif3" went quadruple platinum and he's been featured on tracks with other notable artists like Migos and Playboi Carti. Juice WRLD: Known for his introspective lyrics and emo-inspired sound, Juice WRLD (Jarad Higgins) quickly rose to fame with his breakout hit "Lucid Dreams." He's collaborated with artists like Future, Benny Blanco, and Marshmello, and released two successful studio albums before his untimely death in 2019. Lil Peep: Considered a pioneer of the emo rap subgenre, Lil Peep (Gustav Elijah Åhr) fused together elements of hip hop, emo, and pop-punk music. His debut album, Come Over When You're Sober, Pt. 1, received critical acclaim and he gained a cult following before his tragic death in 2017. Post Malone: Although he's since crossed over into mainstream pop, Post Malone (Austin Richard Post) first gained significant attention through his SoundCloud rap releases. With hits like "Congratulations," "Rockstar," and "Circles," he's become one of the most successful young artists in the music industry. Trippie Redd: Known for his distinctive vocal style and genre-bending sound, Trippie Redd (Michael Lamar White IV) has become one of the most talked-about artists in SoundCloud rap. He's released multiple successful mixtapes and studio albums, and has worked with artists like Travis Scott, Diplo, and Lil Nas X. Lil Skies: With his catchy hooks and melodic flow, Lil Skies (Kimetrius Foose) first gained attention through his viral hit, "Red Roses." He's since released multiple successful mixtapes and studio albums, and collaborated with other notable artists like Wiz Khalifa and Rich the Kid. Ski Mask the Slump God: A close collaborator of XXXTentacion, Ski Mask the Slump God (Stokeley Clevon Goulbourne) has become known for his playful wordplay, fast-paced rapping, and eclectic style. He's released multiple mixtapes and his debut studio album, Stokeley, was released in 2018. Playboi Carti: With his minimalist beats, hypnotic ad-libs, and high-energy performances, Playboi Carti (Jordan Terrell Carter) has become one of the most recognizable names in SoundCloud rap. His debut mixtape, Playboi Carti, spawned the viral hit "Magnolia," and he's since released successful projects like Die Lit and Whole Lotta Red. YNW Melly: Known for his melodic flow and introspective lyrics, YNW Melly (Jamell Demons) gained significant attention with his hit single, "Murder on My Mind." He's released multiple successful mixtapes and his debut studio album, Melly vs. Melvin, was released in 2019. However, his career has been marred by legal troubles and he's currently facing double first-degree murder charges.

1. "HUMBLE." by Kendrick Lamar 2. "XO TOUR Llif3" by Lil Uzi Vert 3. "1-800-273-8255" by Logic ft. Alessia Cara & Khalid 4. "rockstar" by Post Malone ft. 21 Savage 5. "I Fall Apart" by Post Malone 6. "Bodak Yellow" by Cardi B 7. "Gucci Gang" by Lil Pump 8. "Mask Off" by Future 9. "I Like Me Better" by Lauv 10. "God's Plan" by Drake 11. "Butterfly Effect" by Travis Scott 12. "Congratulations" by Post Malone ft. Quavo 13. "SAD!" by XXXTENTACION 14. "Bank Account" by 21 Savage 15. "Stir Fry" by Migos 16. "Jocelyn Flores" by XXXTENTACION 17. "Redbone" by Childish Gambino 18. "Bad and Boujee" by Migos ft. Lil Uzi Vert 19. "Masked Wolf" by Astronaut In The Ocean 20. "Welcome to the Party" by Pop Smoke ft. Lil Pump & Zhavia Ward 21. "All Girls Are the Same" by Juice WRLD 22. "Lucid Dreams" by Juice WRLD 23. "Lean Wit Me" by Juice WRLD 24. "Arms Around You" by XXXTENTACION & Lil Pump ft. Maluma & Swae Lee 25. "Only" by NF

In his book, "SoundCloud: A Music Industry Revolution?" author David A. Herring examines the impact of SoundCloud on the music industry and the rise of SoundCloud Rap. He states, "SoundCloud Rap was born out of the democratization of music creation and distribution, and the platform had a unique ability to connect artists with listeners." One notable aspect of SoundCloud Rap that has been analyzed by researchers and writers is the prominence of "emo" or "sad" rap. In his book "Hip-Hop in America: A Regional Guide," author Mickey Hess notes that "SoundCloud rap's signature sound is often classified as 'emo rap' for its emphasis on introspective and emotional lyrics." Critics have also attributed the rise of SoundCloud Rap to the platform's algorithm, which heavily promotes content that is likely to be popular. Journalist Michael Arceneaux stated in an article for The Guardian, "SoundCloud has figured out how to make an obscure rapper with no label and no traditional promotion into a sensation," adding that "the algorithm allowed [SoundCloud Rap artists] to replace traditional A&R and promotional support." Despite SoundCloud Rap's popularity, it has also faced criticism for its lyrics, which some argue glamorize drug use and violence. In his book, "The Death of Hip Hop: The Rise and Fall of Gangsta Rap," author Nelson George states, "SoundCloud Rap's lyrics tend to be more nihilistic and violent, with less focus on creativity and wordplay than previous hip-hop subgenres." Notable artists in the SoundCloud Rap subgenre include Lil Uzi Vert, Lil Peep, XXXTentacion, Trippie Redd, and Playboi Carti. In an interview with The Fader, Lil Uzi Vert discussed the appeal of SoundCloud Rap, stating, "When I started rapping, I didn't have any restrictions. My music could be however I wanted it to be." XXXTentacion, who was known for his controversial lyrics and legal issues, also spoke about his connection to SoundCloud in an interview with No Jumper, saying, "SoundCloud was instrumental for me. I reached so many people through that platform." In recent years, the popularity of SoundCloud Rap has waned, with some critics arguing that the subgenre has become formulaic and lacking in creativity. Music journalist Sheldon Pearce wrote in Pitchfork, "There's a growing sense that SoundCloud-rap's moment has passed, or is rapidly deteriorating into a cluster of familiar tropes and sounds."

One of the significant social factors that contributed to the creation of SoundCloud Rap is the shift in power dynamics in hip-hop culture. In the past, major record labels had complete control over the development and distribution of hip-hop music. However, with the rise of digital music platforms, independent musicians have been able to bypass the traditional gatekeepers and come into their own. SoundCloud Rap gained popularity because it provided a space where talented, up-and-coming artists could share their music with the world without the need for expensive studios or label backing. Culturally, SoundCloud Rap reflected the growing appetite for a new style of music that better suited the changing times. Younger listeners, frustrated with the lack of fresh perspectives in mainstream hip-hop, began turning towards underground or independent musicians for music that reflects their reality. SoundCloud Rap spoke to this new generation's disillusioned with the established order and created a new sound dominated by trap beats and autotune. This style of music eventually became popular with artists like Lil Uzi Vert, Trippie Redd, and Lil Pump. Technologically too, SoundCloud had a significant impact on the emergence of SoundCloud Rap. With the rise of smartphones and internet accessibility, listeners began to crave more immediate and accessible music, with SoundCloud providing just that. Independent artists could effortlessly share their music on the platform, conduct all their marketing on their own, and communicate directly with their audience without the interference of major labels or gatekeepers. The role of notable labels, journalists, and other figures also shaped the rise of SoundCloud Rap. In 2013, Chief Keef and his Glo Gang label proved that independent rappers could break into the mainstream and achieve success. Journalists such as Andrew Nosnitsky, who wrote for Pitchfork, and Jeff Weiss, who ran his online publication Passion of the Weiss, also played significant roles in SoundCloud Rap's cultivation. Both acted as early advocates for artists such as Lil Uzi Vert and 21 Savage, bringing their music to wider audiences and helping to legitimize the genre. Another significant player in the development of SoundCloud Rap has been the production crew of Chicago, which introduced the drill sound that influenced many SoundCloud Rap artists. Producers such as Young Chop, Zaytoven, and Metro Boomin all played their part, either through the physical soundscapes they created or the culture they curated, in the emergence of SoundCloud Rap.