hip-hop

In this article -- about how slang words like "Mommy" and "Daddy" represent decades of cultural and social development -- two shaded figures, a boy and a young man, exclaim the word "Daddy!" in front of a blue and green background with message icons on it. The boy's version is blocky and bold, with an exclamation attached; the man's is curved and luscious, hearts fluttering around it. The boy is holding his arms up in excitement, while the man is leaning on his hip in a seductive manner.

Daddy Energy and Mommy Vibes: Exploring the Evolution of Slang

Though un-noteworthy at first glance, slang words like "Mommy" and "Daddy" represent a long and fascinating cultural evolution.…

February 14, 2024

Two drumsticks hitting a snare, labeled "Amen Break..."

The Most Famous Drummer You’ve Never Heard Of

Morgan Brown, Wake Forest University

Gregory "G.C." Coleman left behind a huge legacy in hip hop music, whether you know his name or not.…

September 8, 2023

A screenshot from takeoff's funeral shows a group standing on stage in front of his picture on a screen.

Takeoff Left a Permanent Imprint on Hip-Hop

Liam Jackson, Michigan State University

This young rapper's life may have ended recently, but his impact on the music industry will last forever.…

November 22, 2022

A screenshot from the Smino album Luv 4 Rent shows men getting ready in a mirror

‘Luv 4 Rent’ Brings Smino Back Into the Spotlight

Liam Jackson, Michigan State University

After years of silence, the St. Louis rapper is back.…

November 11, 2022

An image of Streetz shows two rappers in the group

‘KISS THE RING’ by Streetz Is the Best Album You Haven’t Heard

Liam Jackson, Michigan State University

This collection of tracks has everything from deep lyrics to creative mixes. It's time to give it a try.…

October 17, 2022

The RAP Act Is Fighting for the Right To Write

Margaret Norsworthy-Edghill, Vassar College

As judges and lawyers attempt to use artistic expression as proof of a crime, artists and lawmakers fight to keep lyrics out of the courtroom.…

October 12, 2022

in an article about feuds between rappers, a screenshot of Lil Durk from a music video

Fans Need To Stop Instigating Conflict Between Rap Artists

Kwami Maranga, Binghamton University

From social media posts to comments sections, the internet is becoming a battleground on which rival fandoms enflame tensions between musicians.…

October 7, 2022

Drake’s New Hairstyle Means More Than You Think

Kwami Maranga, Binghamton University

Since his last two albums have been accompanied with a new hairstyle, Drake may be preparing to drop new music.…

September 17, 2022

Surfaces Is the Positive Band You Should Be Listening to This Summer

Megan Garcia, Arizona State University

The duo promotes positivity in their songs that are sure to put a smile on your face and a melody in your heart.…

August 7, 2022

Aaliyah from music video Are You That Somebody

The Undeniable Impact and Relevance of Aaliyah

Avery Heeringa, Columbia College Chicago

Thanks in part to the introduction of her work to streaming services, a forgotten artist is reborn.…

July 28, 2022

In an article about animated hip hop videos, an illustration of a brightly colored animated music video in a browser tab.

8 of the Best Animated Hip-Hop Music Videos of All Time

Kwami Maranga, Binghamton University

These innovative, visually stunning videos are a treat for rap enthusiasts and animation lovers alike.…

July 22, 2022

In an article about Kanye West and his controversies, an illustration of Kanye West and the animations of his music video "Eazy"

‘Eazy’ Is Yet Another Example of Kanye’s Questionable Creative Choices

Kwami Maranga, Binghamton University

With an already long history of controversial projects, Kanye's newest feud-fueled music video has stirred up the internet once again.…

June 26, 2022

Picture of Coodie Simmons and Kanye West

‘jeen-yuhs: A Kanye Trilogy’ Seeks To Spark Hope Within Everyone

Jesus Garcia, Boston University

This documentary serves as a reminder that it takes a lot of strength, determination and a sound support system to overcome your obstacles and achieve your dreams.…

March 15, 2022

Rolling Loud Makes Changes in Response to the Astroworld Tragedy

Asiya Robinson, Rowan University

The tragedy from Travis Scott's concert is now influencing how music festivals structure their rules and regulations.…

December 8, 2021

Summer Walker’s ‘Still Over It’ Has Women Everywhere Ready for a Good Cry Session

Re’nesia Mills, University of Tampa

After a two-year wait, the American R&B singer is preparing to release her second album that is sure to have female fans in their feels and craving more.…

October 22, 2021

In article about Montero, Lil Nas X's latest album, an illustration of Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X’s Baby ‘Montero’ Is Born!

Jenna Amore, Oakland University

The controversial musical artist has been showing off his baby bump to his TikTok viewers, which finally culminated in the 'birth' of his latest album in mid-September.…

September 29, 2021

The Drake and Kanye West Feud Proves the Futility of Hip-Hop Conflict

Niall Calvert, Wesleyan University

Two of the largest rappers have entered a new chapter in their long war of words, and while many fans are grabbing popcorn, the battle is already stagnating.…

September 25, 2021

Soulja Boy’s ‘Rick and Morty’ Takes TikTok by Storm

Elizabeth Dewit, University of Pittsburgh

It started as a freestyle on his livestream — now, TikTokers are rapping the song about the Adult Swim cartoon in front of historical sites.…

September 23, 2021

K-Indie Artists That Will Enrich and Bring Fresh Air to Your Playlists

Karen Lu, Yale University

The Korean indie music genre truly has something for all music enthusiasts, from R&B and hip-hop to rock and alternative.…

September 4, 2021

Illustration of Young Thug. (Illustration by Katelyn McManis, Columbia College Chicago)

Young Thug Previews a New Sound on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts

Nathan Kolodney, Wesleyan University

From his generosity toward young hip-hop artists to his passionate performances, this rapper has proven that he deserves the title of hip-hop G.O.A.T.…

August 18, 2021

An illustration of Eminem with bleach blond hair

Can Eminem Make a Comeback After Years of Decline?

Daniel Buccafusca, East Stroudsburg University

Will the hip-hop artist ever be able to recover from the backlash he has received for over a decade, or is he past his prime?…

March 13, 2021

‘The Rap of China’ Shows How Chinese Rap Has Strayed From the Genre’s Roots

Karen Lu, Yale University

While hip-hop and rap have become a phenomenon in China, these artists have abandoned both the genre's Black roots and its emphasis on authenticity.…

February 28, 2021

TikTok app in an article about hip-hop one-hit wonders

TikTok One-Hit-Wonders Are Ruining the Hip-Hop Industry

Tanisha Bhat, Boston University

If we want the genre to continue to make an impact and have a stable future, we cannot depend on music that is made to go viral on the video-sharing app.…

January 4, 2021

The Unusual Connections Between JPEGMAFIA and Kate Bush

Caleb Mullenneaux, St. Olaf College

Despite several decades separating the heights of their popularity, both the rapper and the English singer-songwriter share an unwavering independent spirit.…

October 9, 2020

Mac Miller Grew Along With His Audience

Eva Halvax, University of Arizona

As the late rapper moved forward in his career, he evolved musically as well as emotionally, becoming more introspective as he battled with his inner demons.…

October 7, 2020