pop rap
genre of music which combines hip-hop music with elements of pop music
Pop rap is a vibrant blend of catchy melodies and rhythmic rhymes that draws you in with its infectious energy. Often bridging the gap between hip-hop and mainstream pop, it features polished production, sing-along hooks, and beats that make you want to move. Lyrically, it balances playful bravado with relatable themes, effortlessly shining a light on both party vibes and personal stories. You can feel the pulse of youth culture in every track, as artists weave their narratives through clever wordplay and well-crafted verses.
This genre emerged in the late 1980s and gained traction through the ‘90s and early 2000s, as hip-hop began to permeate popular music like never before. Artists like Will Smith brought a lighthearted take on rap, while groups like Beastie Boys combined rock influences with sharp lyrics. The genre hit its peak with albums such as Nelly’s “Country Grammar” and the chart-topping hits by artists like Ludacris and Macklemore, who masterfully blurred lines with their accessible sound and engaging storytelling.
For newcomers eager to dive into pop rap, start with Lizzo’s album "Cuz I Love You," which showcases her dynamic vocal range and uplifting themes. Post Malone’s "Beerbongs & Bentleys" is another must-listen, encapsulating his unique fusion of rap with dreamy pop sensibilities. Don't miss out on Chance the Rapper's "Coloring Book," a refreshing collection that celebrates faith and community with playful exuberance. And for a classic touch, Nelly’s “Hot in Herre” remains an all-time dancefloor favorite. As you explore this genre, keep an ear out for its cross-pollination with R&B and electronic pop—there's a whole world waiting for you!
284 artists in the catalog.
Guides for pop rap artists
Top pop rap albums
See essentials
All pop rap artists
Bresh
hip-hop
Brockhampton
Southern hip-hop, alternative R&B
Coolio
G-funk, West Coast hip-hop
Lil Nas X
country rap, hip-hop
Alligatoah
comedy hip-hop, hip-hop
Eedris Abdulkareem
African hip-hop, contemporary R&B
Ice Spice
Bronx drill, East Coast hip-hop
Tedua
contemporary R&B, drill
Macklemore
alternative hip-hop, comedy hip-hop
Yo Yo Honey Singh
Indian pop, bhangra
Instasamka
Kizo
hip-hop, pop music
Ernia
conscious hip-hop, hip-hop
Ashnikko
hip-hop, pop music
Rae Sremmurd
hip-hop, pop music
DJ BoBo
electronica, house music
About pop rap
What is pop rap?
genre of music which combines hip-hop music with elements of pop music
Where should I start with pop rap?
Start with "Scorpion" by Drake. It captures what makes pop rap worth exploring.
What are the best pop rap albums?
The pop rap albums worth hearing first: "Scorpion" by Drake, "Room for Improvement" by Drake, "More Life" by Drake, "El Negreeto" by Akon and "Konvicted" by Akon.
How many pop rap artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 284 pop rap artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.