drill
genre of hip-hop music
Drill music is a raw, unfiltered expression that pulses with heavy bass and relentless beats. Its soundscape is characterized by dark, eerie melodies layered over aggressive percussion, creating an atmosphere that's both haunting and kinetic. Vocals often deliver rapid-fire lyrics that capture the gritty realities of life in urban settings, blending menace with vulnerability. The energy is infectious, driving listeners to feel every pulse and note as if they were part of the scene itself.
Emerging from the streets of South London around the early 2010s, drill was a reaction against the polished mainstream rap that had dominated the UK music scene. It drew heavily from grime while introducing a more menacing tone. Artists like 67 and M Huncho helped shape its identity, while influential projects like “The Glorious Dead” by Section Boyz brought widespread attention to the genre. Drill quickly evolved to address harsh social realities, pushing lyrical boundaries and challenging societal norms, which only intensified its impact.
For newcomers, a good starting point would be Headie One's "Edna," which showcases the blend of introspection and braggadocio that defines modern drill. Dig into Pop Smoke’s "Meet the Woo" for an American take that incorporates elements of Brooklyn’s sound. Also check out D-Block Europe’s "Street Trauma," notable for its melodic hooks intertwined with typical drill rhythms. Finally, listen to Digga D’s "Made in the Pyrex," where catchy phrases meet hard-hitting production. Once you’re immersed in drill, don’t shy away from exploring the broader UK rap scene or even its cousin genres like trap and grime.
81 artists in the catalog.
Guides for drill artists
Top drill albums
See essentials
All drill artists
Sasha Go Hard
hip-hop
Guy2Bezbar
hip-hop, trap music
CJ
East Coast hip-hop, hip-hop
Obladaet
Russian hip-hop, grime
DD Osama
East Coast hip-hop, hip-hop
Dutchavelli
UK drill, UK rap
Pa Salieu
Afroswing, UK drill
Yungeen Ace
contemporary R&B, hip-hop
Bigidagoe
gangsta rap
FBG Duck
gangsta rap, hip-hop
Bb trickz
urbano music
Sugarhill Ddot
East Coast hip-hop, hip-hop
Enis Cinar
hip-hop, pop music
Ivorian Doll
Young Chop
Chicago drill, Chicago hip-hop
67
hip-hop
About drill
What is drill?
genre of hip-hop music
Where should I start with drill?
Start with "Nothing Was the Same" by Drake. It captures what makes drill worth exploring.
What are the best drill albums?
The drill albums worth hearing first: "Nothing Was the Same" by Drake, "Honestly, Nevermind" by Drake, "Take Care" by Drake, "So Far Gone" by Drake and "So Far Gone" by Drake.
How many drill artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 81 drill artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.