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Music Industry

What Is Trap Music

Photograph of the blog post author, Music Gateway Team

Music Gateway Team

20.2.2023

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Trap music is a genre of hip-hop that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is characterized by its hard-hitting beats, heavy bass and often dark lyrics. The genre has its roots in the Southern United States but has since spread across the globe.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of trap music, its key elements, and its influence on the music industry. We’ll also discuss some of the most popular artists in the genre and their impact on the culture. So, let’s jump right in and discover what trap music is all about.

Trap music history

Trap music is a subgenre of hip hop that originated in the early 2000s in the Southern United States. It is typified by its ominous lyrical content and sound, which incorporates 808 sub-bass kick drums, double-times, triple-time and other faster time division hi-hats, layered synthesizers, and “cinematic” strings.

The term “trap” was originally used to describe places where drug deals take place. Many early trap records were produced by Lex Luger, a producer from Atlanta, Georgia. His beats often featured a dark, bass-heavy sound and samples of horror film dialogue.

In the mid-2000s, the trap sound began to gain mainstream popularity, with artists like Young Jeezy, Gucci Mane, and T.I. releasing songs that incorporated the sound. Soon, trap producers such as Zaytoven, Metro Boomin, and Mike Will Made It began to gain recognition for their work.

In the late 2010s, trap music began to evolve, incorporating elements of EDM and pop. Artists such as Lil Uzi Vert, Desiigner, and 21 Savage began to popularize a more melodic style of trap music. Today, trap music continues to be a major force in hip hop, with artists such as Migos, Cardi B, and Drake all incorporating elements of trap into their music.

Key elements of trap music:

Heavy 808 drum patterns

Dark and aggressive synthesizers

Rap or trap vocals

Fast-paced hi-hat patterns

Heavy basslines

Sparse, melodic sampled hooks

Moody atmospheres

Lyrical themes about street life, violence, and drugs

Top 3 trap music artists:

Travis Scott: Travis Scott is one of the biggest names in trap music, known for his unique sound that blends hip-hop, rap, and trap elements. His music has gained critical acclaim, and his live performances are known for their energy and intensity.

Migos: Migos is an Atlanta-based hip-hop trio that has become one of the most popular trap music acts in the world. Their infectious beats and catchy hooks have made them one of the most sought-after trap music acts.

Future: Future is a trap music pioneer, known for his hard-hitting beats and innovative production. His music has been influential in the trap music scene and his live performances are known for their intensity and energy.

Top 6 trap music songs:

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“Trap Queen” by Fetty Wap – This song is a classic trap anthem that has become a staple in the genre. It’s catchy, fun, and has a great beat that will get you moving.

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“XO Tour Llif3” by Lil Uzi Vert – This song is a great example of the melodic trap sound that is popular today. It’s got a great beat and catchy lyrics that make it a great song to dance to.

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“Black Beatles” by Rae Sremmurd – This song is a great example of the trap-infused hip-hop sound that has become popular in recent years. It’s got a great beat and catchy chorus that make it a great song to dance to.

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“Mask Off” by Future – This song is an example of the hard-hitting trap sound that has become popular in recent years. It’s got a great beat and catchy chorus that make it a great song to dance to.

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“No Lie” by 2 Chainz – This song is a great example of the trap-infused rap sound that has become popular in recent years. It’s got a great beat and catchy lyrics that make it a great song to dance to.

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“Humble” by Kendrick Lamar – This song is a great example of the trap-infused hip-hop sound that has become popular in recent years. It’s got a great beat and catchy chorus that make it a great song to dance to.

Summary

Trap music has had a major influence on the music industry, particularly in the US. It has become one of the most popular genres of music in the country, and its influence is felt in many other genres.


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