Trap

Definition

Trap is a subgenre of hip-hop that originated in the Southern United States during the 1990s, characterized by its use of aggressive beats, rapid hi-hats, and synthesized sounds. It often focuses on themes related to street life, drug dealing, and resilience, creating a raw and authentic sound that has significantly influenced mainstream music and culture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Trap music gained mainstream popularity in the early 2010s with artists like Gucci Mane, Future, and Migos leading the charge.
2. The genre's production heavily relies on digital audio workstations (DAWs) and software plugins to create its signature sound.
3. Trap beats typically feature a tempo range between 130 and 170 BPM, making them suitable for both high-energy tracks and slower, more reflective songs.
4. The lyrical content in trap often discusses themes such as survival, struggles with poverty, and street culture, which resonate with many listeners.
5. Trap has influenced various other genres beyond hip-hop, including pop, electronic dance music (EDM), and even country music, showcasing its broad appeal.

Review Questions

• How did trap music develop in the Southern United States, and what are its defining characteristics?
  • Trap music developed in the Southern United States during the 1990s as a response to the socio-economic challenges faced by many communities. Its defining characteristics include aggressive beats driven by heavy use of 808 bass and rapid hi-hat patterns, along with synthesized sounds that create a distinct soundscape. The genre also often incorporates lyrics focused on street life and resilience, reflecting the realities of its origins.
• In what ways has trap music influenced modern hip-hop production techniques?
  • Trap music has profoundly influenced modern hip-hop production techniques through its unique sound elements like hi-hat rolls and heavy bass lines. Producers have adopted digital audio workstations (DAWs) to create complex layers of sound that define trap tracks. Additionally, the emphasis on rhythm over lyrical complexity has led to a new wave of artists who prioritize melodic hooks and catchy beats in their work.
• Evaluate the cultural impact of trap music on contemporary music genres beyond hip-hop.
  • The cultural impact of trap music extends far beyond hip-hop, influencing a variety of contemporary genres such as pop, EDM, and even country. Its infectious beats and catchy melodies have been integrated into mainstream hits across different styles. This crossover appeal has not only broadened the audience for trap but also shaped musical trends globally, as artists from diverse backgrounds incorporate trap elements into their work. The genre's themes of resilience and street culture have also resonated with wider audiences, making it a significant force in shaping modern music culture.

Related terms

808 Bass: A deep bass sound produced by the Roland TR-808 drum machine, commonly used in trap music for its powerful and resonant quality.

Hi-hat Rolls: A technique used in trap production where hi-hat sounds are played in quick succession, creating a fast-paced rhythmic pattern that is characteristic of the genre.

Mumble Rap: A style of rap that emphasizes melody and rhythm over lyrical clarity, often associated with trap artists and their delivery.