Trap music

Definition

Trap music is a subgenre of hip-hop that originated in the Southern United States in the 1990s, characterized by its use of heavy bass, hi-hats, and aggressive lyrical content often addressing life in the 'trap' or drug dealing culture. This genre has evolved over the years, influencing and being influenced by various musical styles, contributing to its role in the legacy and ongoing evolution of African American music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Trap music gets its name from the term 'trap,' which refers to places where drugs are sold illegally. The lyrics often depict the struggles and lifestyle associated with this culture.
2. Prominent producers like Lex Luger and Metro Boomin helped shape the sound of trap music with their innovative use of production techniques, influencing a wide range of artists.
3. The genre gained mainstream popularity in the early 2010s with hits from artists like Future, Migos, and Gucci Mane, contributing to its recognition as a dominant force in contemporary hip-hop.
4. Trap music's production style typically features rapid hi-hat patterns, deep bass lines, and synthesized melodies, creating a distinct sound that sets it apart from other hip-hop subgenres.
5. The influence of trap music has extended beyond hip-hop, impacting pop music, electronic dance music (EDM), and even R&B, showcasing its versatility and broad appeal.

Review Questions

• How did trap music emerge as a distinct subgenre within hip-hop, and what cultural influences contributed to its development?
  • Trap music emerged from the Southern hip-hop scene in the 1990s, rooted in the experiences and realities of life in urban areas where drug dealing was prevalent. Cultural influences such as street life narratives and regional sounds played a crucial role in shaping its identity. Artists from Atlanta and other Southern cities began to create beats with heavy bass and rapid hi-hats that reflected their surroundings, leading to a unique sound that resonated with many listeners.
• Discuss how trap music has influenced contemporary popular music and its integration into other genres.
  • Trap music has significantly influenced contemporary popular music by introducing its distinctive beats and production styles across various genres. Pop artists have started incorporating trap elements into their songs to appeal to younger audiences and stay relevant. This cross-genre integration has led to collaborations between hip-hop artists and those from pop or EDM backgrounds, blurring the lines between musical styles while expanding the reach of trap's influence.
• Evaluate the impact of trap music on the representation of African American culture in mainstream media and how it reflects societal issues.
  • Trap music has played a pivotal role in representing African American culture within mainstream media by providing an authentic voice to experiences related to struggle, resilience, and urban life. Through its raw lyrical content and aggressive beats, it addresses pressing societal issues such as poverty, systemic racism, and crime. As trap continues to gain popularity, it challenges stereotypes and fosters discussions about the realities faced by many communities, allowing for greater visibility and understanding of African American narratives.

Related terms

Southern hip-hop: A subgenre of hip-hop that emerged from the Southern United States, known for its distinct sound and cultural influences that shaped various musical styles, including trap.

Mumble rap: A style of rap characterized by a focus on melody and rhythm rather than clear enunciation of lyrics, often associated with trap music's evolution in the 2010s.

Drum machine: An electronic musical instrument that mimics the sounds of drums and percussion, widely used in trap music production to create its signature beats.