Rap
Rap is a vocal style defined by rhythmic speech and rhyme, emerging in the 1970s Bronx as a foundational element of hip-hop culture. It features lyricism delivered over beats, often addressing social issues, personal stories, and expressions of confidence. Pioneers like Grandmaster Flash and Rakim shaped rap’s early sound, while artists such as Kendrick Lamar push its boundaries by blending complex narratives with innovative production. Its cultural positioning comes from rap’s role as a voice for marginalized communities and a platform for storytelling that reflects real-life experiences. Fans return because of the genre’s evolving lyricism and diverse regional styles, from East Coast boom-bap to Southern trap, which continuously reshape hip-hop’s soundscape and influence broader music and culture.
Latest Stories
100 Hottest Rappers Right Now [June 2026]
From Drake and his new album 'Iceman' to Jay-Z—who is celebrating 30 years of 'Reasonable Doubt' at Yankee Stadium this summer—we ranked the hottest rappers right now.
Who Is JP THE WAVY? What to Know About the Japanese Rapper and Fashion Maven
JP THE WAVY, who broke out with a viral hit in 2017, continues to build an undeniable presence in music and fashion nearly a decade later.
JPEGMAFIA Drops Hard-Hitting New Album 'Experimental Rap'
The genre-blending Maryland-based rapper is back with another solo record after several high-profile collaborations.
Drake's 'Iceman' Gets People Talking as Russ, Steph Curry, Lil Dicky, Usain Bolt and More React
As expected, Drizzy's three-album drop has got a lot of people talking.
Trueno Drops His Genre-Hopping Album ‘TURR4ZO’
The Argentinian rapper returns to his roots on the new project, featuring María Becerra, the legendary Rubén Rada, and more.
The Game Thinks Rap Is in a 'Sad' Space Without New Music From Drake
Lucky for him and the culture, Drizzy is about to drop 'Iceman.'
Future Reportedly Hit With Paternity Suit in Florida Over Ex's Nine-Year-Old Son
The rapper's ex, Layla Sanad, is seeking child support after claiming he's the father of her child.
Jay Electronica Calls for Diddy's Freedom: 'They Tried to Hang My Dawg on Some Bullsh*t'
The rapper took a moment during a recent show to voice his support for the disgraced music mogul.
The Game Argues Hip-Hop Is 'Down 50 Percent' After Drake, Kendrick Lamar Beef
The rapper argues the culture didn’t appreciate “one of the greatest” amid the feud.
UK Underground Rap: Essential Projects of 2026 (So Far)
A regularly updated review column of projects shaping the UK underground.
Mustard Talks ‘Sprite Sound’, His Instinct For Hits & Wanting To Work With Skepta
Complex UK catches up with one of hip-hop’s biggest hitmakers.
J. Cole Isn't 'Comfortable' Playing His Favorite Rap Around His Kids: 'It's Sexual, It's Violent'
“I don’t know if it’s right or wrong."
Chuck D Responds to Gene Simmons' 'Debatable' Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Hip-Hop Claim
The Public Enemy has weighed in after the KISS bassist said that hip-hop "doesn't belong in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame."
T.I. Reflects on Son Domani’s Growth as a Rapper, Says His Early Music 'Sucked'
The Atlanta legend discussed watching Domani evolve as an artist.
Symba Thinks J. Cole Took a Shot at Him on New Freestyle and Has Plans to Respond
The Cali rapper addressed the lyric on the Rory and Mal podcast, calling it a sign of respect but not letting it slide.
The 25 Best Rap Posse Cuts in Hip-Hop History
Teamwork makes the dream work. Nothing displays that better than the posse cut. Here are the 25 best.
The 30 Best Christmas Rap Songs
Hip-hop Christmas songs have been around forever from Run-DMC's "Christmas In Hollis" to DMX’s “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” to Lil Nas X's "Holiday." Here is a list of our favorites.