SoundCloud rap

Overview

SoundCloud rap is a music genre that emerged in the mid-2010s on the online audio distribution platform, SoundCloud. The genre is characterized by its lo-fi quality, often with heavily distorted, bass-heavy mixes and aggressive lyrics. It is closely associated with the underground rap scene and has been instrumental in propelling the careers of several notable artists.

History

SoundCloud rap originated in the mid-2010s on the SoundCloud platform, which allowed artists to share their music directly with fans, bypassing traditional music industry gatekeepers. The genre is often associated with the "DIY" ethos, as many of its practitioners produce, record, and distribute their music independently. The genre's rise in popularity coincided with the widespread adoption of streaming as the primary method of music consumption, which allowed for the rapid dissemination of SoundCloud rap tracks.

Characteristics

SoundCloud rap is characterized by its raw, lo-fi sound, often featuring heavily distorted, bass-heavy beats. The lyrics are typically aggressive and confrontational, often dealing with themes of drug use, depression, and violence. The genre is also known for its unconventional song structures and the frequent use of Auto-Tune and other vocal effects.

Notable Artists

Several artists who began their careers on SoundCloud have gone on to achieve mainstream success. These include Post Malone, Lil Pump, and XXXTentacion, among others. These artists have been instrumental in popularizing the SoundCloud rap genre and have helped to shape its distinctive sound.

Influence and Impact

The impact of SoundCloud rap on the broader music industry has been significant. The genre's DIY ethos and the direct-to-fan distribution model pioneered by SoundCloud have challenged traditional music industry norms and have paved the way for a new generation of independent artists. The genre has also been influential in shaping the sound of contemporary popular music, with its lo-fi aesthetic and confrontational lyrics becoming increasingly prevalent in mainstream pop and hip-hop.

Criticism and Controversy

SoundCloud rap has been the subject of considerable controversy and criticism. The genre's often explicit lyrics and its association with drug use and violence have led to accusations of glorifying negative behaviors. Additionally, several prominent SoundCloud rappers have been involved in legal issues and controversies, further fueling the genre's controversial reputation.