Hip-hop

Bright colors, patterns, and logos that stand out and make a statement.

Oversized and loose-fitting clothes that provide comfort and movement.

Sportswear and fashion brands that are associated with the hip-hop scene, such as Adidas, Kangol, Supreme, and Vetements.

Accessories such as sneakers, hats, sunglasses, jewelry, and backpacks that add personality and flair.

Customized and DIY pieces that show creativity and originality.

Run-D.M.C. and their signature Adidas tracksuits, Kangol hats, gold chains, and shell-toe sneakers.

Salt-N-Pepa and their colorful, bold, and sexy outfits that challenged the male-dominated rap scene.
They wore leather jackets, spandex, crop tops, big earrings, and asymmetrical haircuts.

N.W.A. and their rebellious and militant style that reflected their gangsta rap lyrics.
They wore black Raiders caps, sunglasses, gold chains, bomber jackets, and jeans.

Tupac Shakur and his versatile and influential style that ranged from casual to sophisticated.
He wore bandanas, tattoos, nose rings, leather vests, denim shirts, and Versace suits.
Tupac also walked the runway for Versace in 1996, becoming one of the first rappers to do so.

Lil' Kim and her daring and provocative style that broke boundaries and made headlines.
She wore colorful wigs, fur coats, designer labels, and revealing outfits.
Lil' Kim also shocked the world with her iconic purple pasty at the 1999 MTV Video Music Awards.

Musical influences: Hip-hop music can draw inspiration from different genres, such as jazz, soul, rock, reggae, R&B, and more.
By sampling, remixing, or collaborating with artists from different musical backgrounds, hip-hop can create new sounds and styles that reflect the diversity and creativity of the genre.
For example, artists like A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, and The Roots incorporated jazz elements into their hip-hop music, creating a subgenre known as jazz rap.
Similarly, artists like Run-DMC, Beastie Boys, and Linkin Park fused hip-hop with rock music, creating a subgenre known as rap rock.

Cultural influences: Hip-hop culture can also be influenced by different cultures, such as African, Latin, Asian, and more.
By learning from and respecting the history, traditions, and values of different cultures, hip-hop can celebrate the diversity and richness of human experiences.
For example, artists like Afrika Bambaataa, Grandmaster Flash, and DJ Kool Herc were influenced by the African culture and history, and used elements such as drumming, chanting, and storytelling in their hip-hop music.
Similarly, artists like Cypress Hill, Pitbull, and Daddy Yankee were influenced by the Latin culture and language, and used elements such as salsa, reggaeton, and Spanish in their hip-hop music.

Social influences: Hip-hop culture can also be influenced by different social issues, such as racism, poverty, violence, and more.
By addressing and raising awareness of these issues, hip-hop can serve as a platform for social commentary and activism.
For example, artists like Public Enemy, N.W.A, and Tupac Shakur were influenced by the social and political struggles of the African American community, and used their hip-hop music to challenge the status quo and inspire change.
Similarly, artists like Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, and Logic were influenced by the personal and psychological challenges of their lives, and used their hip-hop music to express their emotions and perspectives.

Listen to new and emerging artists who are pushing the boundaries of hip-hop and experimenting with different sounds, styles, and themes.
For example, you can check out some of the rising stars of 2021 according to Billboard.

Follow hip-hop news, interviews, and reviews from reliable sources that cover the latest developments and controversies in the scene.
For example, you can visit Hip Hop Trends, a website that provides hip-hop news, interviews, music, and more.

Explore the history and origins of hip-hop and learn about the pioneers and legends who shaped the genre and influenced generations of artists.
For example, you can watch documentaries, read books, or listen to podcasts that tell the stories of hip-hop icons and movements.

Engage with the hip-hop community and culture through social media, forums, blogs, podcasts, or live events.
You can interact with other fans, artists, producers, DJs, or critics and share your opinions, feedback, or recommendations.
You can also support local or independent artists by streaming their music, buying their merchandise, or attending their shows.

Express your own creativity and passion for hip-hop by making your own music, art, or fashion inspired by the genre.
You can use various tools and platforms to create your own beats, lyrics, videos, or graphics.
You can also experiment with different elements of hip-hop fashion such as Kangol hats, durags, cornrows, or grills.

Don't wear clothes that are too big or too small for your body type.
Clothes that are too baggy or too tight can make you look sloppy or uncomfortable.
Find clothes that fit you well and flatter your shape.

Don't mix too many colors or patterns.
While hip-hop fashion is known for its bold and vibrant colors, you don't want to look like a rainbow or a clown.
Stick to a few colors that complement each other and balance them with neutrals.
Avoid clashing patterns or prints that are too busy or distracting.

Don't wear fake or knock-off brands.
Hip-hop fashion is also about authenticity and quality, so don't try to pass off cheap imitations as the real deal.
If you can't afford the original brands, opt for something more affordable but still stylish and unique.
Don't wear logos or labels that you don't know or support.

Don't copy someone else's style.
Hip-hop fashion is about expressing your own personality and taste, not copying someone else's.
While you can get inspiration from your favorite artists or celebrities, don't copy their outfits exactly or try to be someone you're not.
Find your own voice and style that suits you and your mood.

Don't forget the accessories.
Hip-hop fashion is not complete without the right accessories, such as hats, sunglasses, jewelry, belts, bags, and shoes.
Accessories can add some flair and attitude to your outfit, but don't overdo it.
Choose accessories that match your outfit and your style, and don't wear anything that is too flashy or tacky.

Expanding its geographical reach and influence, from the East Coast to the West Coast, from the South to the Midwest, and from the US to the rest of the world.

Diversifying its styles and subgenres, such as gangsta rap, conscious rap, alternative rap, trap, grime, and drill.

Incorporating different musical influences and genres, such as funk, soul, jazz, rock, reggae, R&B, and pop.

Developing its production techniques and technologies, such as sampling, scratching, synthesizers, drum machines, and digital audio workstations.

Increasing its commercial success and mainstream popularity, as well as its social and political impact and relevance.

Listen to a variety of hip-hop artists and styles, from old-school legends like Grandmaster Flash and Run-DMC to modern stars like Kendrick Lamar and Drake.
Pay attention to how they use rhyme, flow, wordplay, and storytelling in their lyrics.
You can also watch videos of their performances and observe how they interact with the audience and the beat.

Practice your rap skills by writing your own lyrics or freestyling over instrumental tracks.
Try to be original, creative, and expressive in your rap.
You can also record yourself rapping and listen back to improve your delivery, pronunciation, and timing.

Learn some basic hip-hop dance moves, such as the bounce, the rock, the slide, the kick-ball-change, and the body roll.
You can find tutorials on YouTube or other websites that teach you how to do these moves step by step.
You can also watch videos of professional hip-hop dancers and choreographers, such as Matt Steffanina or Les Twins, and try to imitate their moves and style.

Have fun and be yourself.
Hip-hop is a culture of expression, creativity, and diversity.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles, genres, and influences.
Find your own voice and identity in hip-hop, and enjoy the process of learning and improving.

Seasons: Hip-hop music can reflect the mood and atmosphere of different seasons, such as summer, winter, spring, or autumn.
For instance, summer hip-hop songs are often upbeat, energetic, and fun, while winter hip-hop songs are more introspective, melancholic, and reflective.
Some examples of seasonal hip-hop songs are Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Winter in America by Gil Scott-Heron, Spring Again by Biz Markie, and Autumn Leaves by Chris Brown and Kendrick Lamar.

Occasions: Hip-hop music can also suit different occasions, such as parties, weddings, protests, or funerals.
For example, party hip-hop songs are usually catchy, danceable, and celebratory, while funeral hip-hop songs are solemn, respectful, and mournful.
Some examples of occasion-specific hip-hop songs are Party Up (Up in Here) by DMX, Just a Friend by Biz Markie, Fight the Power by Public Enemy, and I'll Be Missing You by Puff Daddy and Faith Evans.

Settings: Hip-hop music can also adapt to different settings, such as urban, rural, global, or local.
For instance, urban hip-hop songs often depict the realities and challenges of living in the city, while rural hip-hop songs explore the themes and lifestyles of the countryside.
Similarly, global hip-hop songs incorporate influences and elements from different cultures and regions, while local hip-hop songs celebrate and represent the identity and history of a specific place.
Some examples of setting-oriented hip-hop songs are The Message by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, Country Grammar by Nelly, Wavin' Flag by K'naan, and Empire State of Mind by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys.

Funk and Disco: Hip-hop emerged in the early 1970s in the Bronx, where DJs like Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Afrika Bambaataa mixed funk and disco records with turntables and created rhythmic breaks that MCs rapped over.

Jazz and Soul: In the mid-1980s, hip-hop artists like Eric B. & Rakim, De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, and Gang Starr incorporated jazz and soul samples into their beats, creating a more sophisticated and melodic sound that contrasted with the harder-edged rap of the time.

Reggae and Dancehall: Hip-hop also has roots in Jamaican music, especially reggae and dancehall, which influenced the vocal style, slang, and culture of many hip-hop artists. DJ Kool Herc, for example, was born in Jamaica and brought the sound system culture to New York. Other artists like Boogie Down Productions, KRS-One, Shabba Ranks, and Super Cat fused rap with reggae and dancehall rhythms.

Rock and Metal: Hip-hop also experimented with rock and metal influences in the late 1980s and early 1990s, creating a crossover genre known as rap rock or rap metal. Some of the pioneers of this style were Run-DMC, who collaborated with Aerosmith on "Walk This Way" in 1986, Beastie Boys, who mixed rap with punk rock on their albums Licensed to Ill (1986) and Paul's Boutique (1989), and Public Enemy, who used heavy guitar samples and collaborated with Anthrax on "Bring the Noise" in 1991.

R&B and Pop: Hip-hop also embraced R&B and pop influences in the late 1990s and early 2000s, creating a more mainstream and commercial sound that appealed to a wider audience. Some of the artists who popularized this style were Puff Daddy, who sampled hits from the 1980s on his album No Way Out (1997), Jay-Z, who collaborated with singers like Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, and Alicia Keys on his songs, and Eminem, who mixed rap with pop hooks on his albums The Slim Shady LP (1999) and The Marshall Mathers LP (2000).

Live shows and music festivals will make a comeback after the pandemic, as fans crave for the energy and excitement of live performances.
Hip-hop artists will use innovative technologies and creative stage designs to enhance their shows and connect with their fans.

Thailand will emerge as a hotspot for Asian hip-hop, as the country boasts a vibrant and diverse scene of rappers, producers, DJs, and dancers.
Thai hip-hop will showcase its unique culture, language, and style, while also collaborating with other Asian and international artists.

Drill, a subgenre of trap music that originated in Chicago and later spread to London, New York, and other cities, will continue to gain popularity and influence in hip-hop.
It is characterized by its dark, gritty, and violent lyrics, as well as its fast-paced and aggressive beats.
Drill artists will explore new topics, sounds, and flows, while also addressing social issues and challenges in their communities.

Asian OGs, or the pioneers and legends of Asian hip-hop, will receive more recognition and appreciation for their contributions to the genre.
Hip-hop fans will rediscover the classics and learn from the history and legacy of Asian hip-hop.
Asian OGs will also mentor and collaborate with the new generation of artists, passing on their wisdom and experience.
Their exports will not be limited to pretty boys or idol groups, but will also include talented and diverse hip-hop artists who can appeal to a global audience.
Asian hip-hop will showcase its versatility, creativity, and authenticity, while also breaking stereotypes and boundaries.
Asian hip-hop artists will also experiment with different languages, genres, and cultures, creating a fusion of sounds and styles.

Female MCs will rise to prominence and dominance in hip-hop, as they prove their skills, charisma, and personality on the mic.
They will challenge the male-dominated industry and culture of hip-hop, while also empowering and inspiring other women.
The female MCs will also explore different themes, perspectives and expressions in their music, ranging from personal stories to social commentary.

Brand sponsorship will focus more on Asian rappers, as they become more influential and popular in the market.
They will seek to partner with Asian rappers who can represent their values, vision, and identity.
Brand will also support Asian rappers in their artistic endeavors, providing them with resources, platforms, and opportunities.

Oversize everything will be a fashion trend in hip-hop, as artists opt for loose-fitting clothes that are comfortable and stylish.
It will also reflect the attitude and mood of hip-hop artists, who are confident and relaxed in their own skin.
Oversize clothes will also allow for more creativity and customization, as artists can mix and match different colors, patterns, and accessories.

Eminem, has overcame addiction, poverty, and racism to become one of the most successful and respected rappers of all time.
He also supports various charities and causes, such as his own Marshall Mathers Foundation.

Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def, who is not only a talented rapper and actor, but also a social activist and humanitarian.
He has spoken out against police brutality, racism, war, and torture.

Queen Latifah, who is a pioneer of female empowerment in hip-hop.
She is also a successful actress, producer, and entrepreneur.
Latifah has been involved in many philanthropic projects, such as the Queen Latifah Scholarship Fund and the Lancelot H.Owens Scholarship Foundation.

Nas, is considered by many to be one of the greatest lyricists and storytellers in hip-hop.
He is also a visionary and innovator, who has collaborated with various artists across genres and cultures.
Nas has invested in many social and educational initiatives, such as the Hip Hop Action Network and the Queensbridge Venture Partners.

Missy Elliot, who is a trailblazer of creativity and originality in hip-hop.
She is also a survivor of abuse, illness, and discrimination.
Missy Elliot has inspired many young artists, especially women and people of color, to pursue their dreams.
She has donated to many causes, such as the Break the Cycle organization and the VH1 Save The Music Foundation.

Talib Kweli, is a leader of conscious rap, a subgenre of hip-hop that focuses on social issues and positive messages.
He is also a vocal advocate for human rights, justice, and peace.
Kweli has participated in many campaigns and movements, such as the Black Lives Matter movement and the Occupy Wall Street movement.

K'naan, is a rapper, poet, and activist from Somalia.
He escaped war and violence in his homeland and immigrated to Canada as a refugee.
Through his music, K'Naan raises awareness and funds for various causes such as the World Food Program and Project Enough.

Kanye West, is a controversial but influential figure in hip-hop.
He is a genius producer, rapper, and fashion designer, who has challenged the norms and boundaries of the genre.
Kanye West has also supported many charities and foundations, such as the Kanye West Foundation and the Common Ground Foundation.

Lauryn Hill, hip-hop and soul music legend.
She is a multi-talented artist, who has won numerous awards and accolades for her work.
Lauryn Hill is also a devoted mother of six children and a spiritual seeker.
She has contributed to many humanitarian efforts, such as the Refugee Project and the Bob Marley Foundation.