News Summary
Memphis rap is rising to prominence with local artists collaborating with mainstream acts. This evolution blends regional sounds with diverse genres, reflecting the enduring influence of Memphis hip-hop. Notable collaborations, such as GloRilla’s partnership with Selena Gomez and more, showcase this fusion while appealing to a global audience. The resurgence of 90s artists like Kingpin Skinny Pimp highlights the genre’s lasting impact. As Memphis rap gains traction, the future of this vibrant musical culture looks promising.
Memphis: Rap Resurgence and Mainstream Collaborations
Memphis rap is experiencing a significant resurgence, gaining attention not just locally but also on the global stage as artists emerge from the underground scene to collaborate with mainstream acts. This evolution highlights the enduring influence of Memphis rap on modern hip-hop genres, while also bridging various musical styles.
The roots of Memphis rap are deeply ingrained in a regional, DIY culture that originally thrived on cassette tapes and local radio broadcasts. Characterized by dark, lo-fi beats and a distinctive Southern sound, Memphis rap has paved the way for genres like Atlanta’s trap and SoundCloud rap. Pioneering artists such as DJ Spanish Fly, Three 6 Mafia, and Tommy Wright III have left a considerable impact, inspiring the next generation of musicians.
Recent collaborations by Memphis artists showcase this artistic evolution. GloRilla, known for her gruff and rowdy style, collaborated with Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco on the song “Cowboy.” This blend of Memphis rap with pop elements signifies a crossover that surprises audiences while introducing a new energy to typically softer pop music. Another notable collaboration features Lil Noid teaming up with The Black Keys on “Candy and Her Friends,” which merges Memphis rap with blues-rock influences.
Additionally, the track “Gold Teeth,” featuring Memphis rappers Project Pat and Gangsta Boo and produced by Blood Orange, exemplifies the effective blending of diverse genres. Juicy J’s collaboration with Katy Perry on the hit “Dark Horse” further spotlights the influence of Memphis rap in the pop music realm. The creativity in these collaborations has garnered mixed responses, yet it showcases the genre-defying nature of contemporary Memphis rap.
In light of her rising success, GloRilla is embarking on her first headlining tour, titled “Glorious Tour,” after her debut LP achieved a remarkable No. 5 on the Billboard charts. This tour will span 21 dates and introduce support acts like Real Boston Richey and Queen Key. GloRilla is also set to perform at the AT&T Super Saturday concert during the Women’s NCAA Final Four, marking further recognition of her growing status in the music industry.
The resurgence of 90s Memphis hip-hop is particularly notable, with many early artists now finding new life through social media and contemporary music trends. An iconic figure, Kingpin Skinny Pimp, has received renewed attention as his song “Lookin’ for da Chewin'” inspired a viral TikTok challenge, revitalizing interest in his music. This track has also been sampled by modern artists, affirming Kingpin’s lasting influence. He plans to collaborate with emerging talents, seeking acknowledgment for his foundational contributions to the genre.
The current wave of Memphis rap is characterized by its innovative production techniques and distinct sound, drawing appreciation from a new generation of listeners. The impact of early Memphis rappers on the landscape of modern rap cannot be overstated, with their work continuing to shape musical creativity today. This revival reflects not only the resilience of Memphis’ music scene but also the growing trend of artists embracing their roots while venturing into unexplored musical territories.
As Memphis rap artists gain larger recognition and continue to blur the lines between genres, the trajectory of this vibrant musical culture seems destined for even greater heights. With exciting collaborations and rising stars leading the charge, the future for Memphis rap appears increasingly bright.
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Additional Resources
- We Are Memphis: 5 Most Unexpected Memphis Rap Features
- Commercial Appeal: GloRilla Tour 2025 Dates & Tickets
- Passion Weiss: Introduction to Memphis Hip-Hop Underground
- Rolling Stone: Kingpin Skinny Pimp Interview
- Wikipedia: Memphis Rap
