Hip-Hop

Hip-hop is a music genre and cultural movement that emerged in the 1970s Bronx, New York, defined by rhythmic vocal delivery (rapping), DJing, breakdancing, and graffiti art. It grew out of MC battles and block parties, transforming urban expression into a global musical and cultural force. Hip-hop’s storytelling, innovation, and social commentary have shaped its identity and influence across generations. Its relevance traces back to regional styles that anchor hip-hop’s evolution, from New York’s boom-bap beats to Atlanta’s trap sound. Fans return because of hip-hop’s ability to spotlight local scenes and amplify voices through social media, driving collaborations and cultural movements unique to each era. This ongoing dialogue between community and creativity sustains hip-hop’s global impact.

Sign Up to get access to the latest drops, exclusive products and insider updates.
By entering your email, you agree to receive customized marketing messages from us and our advertising partners. You also acknowledge that this site is protected by reCAPTCHA, and that our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Featured

Latest Stories

(L-R) Meek Mill and Lil Durk.
Music

Meek Mill's Lil Durk 'Innocent Kid' Defense Gets Torn Apart Online: 'Worst Take of All Time'

Meek has received a wave of pushback for his defense of Durk as the Chicago rapper's federal murder-for-hire trial enters a critical stretch.

Mark Elibert14 minutes ago
Laverne Cox with long wavy hair and bold makeup poses in front of a gray backdrop with abstract logos.
Pop Culture

Laverne Cox Recalls Two Famous Rappers Hitting on Her: ‘Even With the NDAs, the Girls Know’

The actress and author recalled two high-profile rappers flirting with her at the beginning of her career.

Alex Ocho2 days ago
Meeks Mill in Philadelphia Eagles cap and jacket, smiling and making hand gestures. The background is a stadium.
Music

Meek Mill Says He's Learning Things With AI He's Been Wanting to Know for Years

The Philadelphia rapper, who has repeatedly been outspoken about his embrace of AI, said that "nothing" teaches him better than AI technology.

Joe Price4 days ago
ATLANTA, GA - JULY 17: BeatKing performs at Hot 107.9 Birthday Bash 25 at Center Parc Credit Union Stadium at Georgia State University on July 17, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Music

Houston Hosts Second-Annual Beatking Day With City Proclamation

The city-proclaimed holiday honoring the late rapper-producer returned for a second year.

Tom Hardy in a brown suit with a patterned tie, posing with hands in pockets against a textured backdrop.
Music

Tom Hardy Drops Collab Album With Czarface as Frankie Pulitzer Alter Ego

Hardy raps as Frankie Pulitzer alongside Czarface on the 15-track project.

Mark Elibert5 days ago
Advertisement
Jim Jones in a leather jacket with sunglasses and Drake in a suit, both posing at separate events.
Music

Jim Jones Says Drake Holds Hip-Hop's Throne Currently, But Thinks 'There Are a Lot of Kings'

The Dipset rapper says Drake is on top but believes hip-hop has room for multiple kings.

Mark Elibert6 days ago
Meek Mill wearing a colorful beanie, fur-lined jacket, and camouflage shirt holds a drink and a large chain in a hallway.
Music

Meek Mill Calls on 'City of God' Producer to Help Bring His 'YN' Movie to Life

The Philly rapper is looking to the acclaimed 2002 crime film for inspiration on his next project.

Mark Elibert7 days ago
DMX.
Music

DMX's Only Endorsed Fragrance Returns for a Limited-Edition 2026 Drop

'The DMX Collection' Eau de Parfum is back as a premium re-release through Black-owned brand Isidore Luxury.

Will Lavin7 days ago
LUCKI with dreadlocks and sunglasses on stage, wearing a black tracksuit, holding a microphone against a vibrant red and white backdrop.
Music

LUCKI Confronted by Club Promoter Who Paid $60,000 for Performance That Lasted Two Songs

A video of the promoter calling out the Chicago rapper circulated widely after LUCKI reportedly walked out following just two songs.

Mark Elibert9 days ago
Lil Nas X in a beige suit and blue tie, smiling outdoors with a woman in a blue blazer and glasses. Trees in the background.
Music

Lil Nas X Jokes Fans Have Been 'OD Nice' to Him Since Getting Out of Rehab

The rapper posted a playful Instagram video today riffing on followers who respond to his every post with over-the-top support, including treating a thirst trap as an act of bravery.

Mark Elibert10 days ago
Advertisement
Tupac Shakur and Snoop Dogg in a convertible car, Tupac making a hand gesture, both dressed in suits.
Music

The 30 Best Rap Albums of 1996, Ranked

In hindsight, 1996 was a golden year. At the time, it felt like anything but. Thirty years later, here are the best rap albums of 1996.

Image via Hennessy
Music

ENNY Puts On For LDN In The 2026 Hennessy Cypher

The “Peng Black Girls” rapper joins forces with some of Africa’s finest musical talent.

Joel Dishan14 days ago
Mobb Deep in casual clothing pose confidently by a car. The image has a purple tint.
Music

Havoc on Mobb Deep's "Shook Ones" Being Crowned the GOAT Rap Beat: "It's Better Than a Grammy"

Complex readers crowned "Shook Ones, Pt. II" the greatest rap beat ever. We spoke with the song's producer, Havoc, about its legacy.

LL Cool J
Life

Musician Who Worked With LL Cool J Brings Hip-Hop to a Traditional Industry

After nearly 15 years chasing music, Brian Desind applied the lessons of hip-hop, streetwear and sneaker culture to a business few expected them to reach.

Maggie Ekberg21 days ago

Stay ahead on Exclusives

Download the Complex App