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.

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JULY 29: Vince Staples performs at The Drop: Vince Staples at Grammy Museum on July 29, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.
Music

Vince Staples Tells Critics That 'Albums Aren't Supposed to Be Perfect'

The 'Cry Baby' rapper called out those who "talk poorly about people's creative choices."

US rapper Wale attends Billboard Women in Music at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles on April 29, 2026.
Music

Wale Says Music Industry Is 'Rat Race on a Hamster Wheel': 'It's Always More Criticism'

The rapper expressed being in a "perpetual state of uncertainty and skepticism."

(L-R) Scarface and 2Pac.
Music

Scarface Revisits 2Pac Milwaukee Incident: 'He Wanted to Fight Everybody'

Face has confirmed he was with the late legend during the 1994 incident, and claimed he had to hold 'Pac in a hotel room to keep him safe.

Trey Alston3 days ago
Jermaine Dupri in a tuxedo with sunglasses on the left, Bruno Mars performing in a red outfit on the right.
Music

Jermaine Dupri Shares Text Exchange With Bruno Mars After Catching His Show: ‘Should’ve Signed Me'

Dupri is sharing how he had an opportunity to sign Mars, and how the singer won’t let him forget it.

Alex Ocho5 days ago
Tay Keith, circa 2024, in a camouflage-patterned coat and sunglasses standing in front of the Grammy Award's step-and-repeat.
Music

Tay Keith's Estate Facing Almost $200,000 in Claims From Creditors

Two banks have filed claims against the estate of the late producer, who died of an accidental drug overdose earlier this year.

Joe Price8 days ago
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(L-R) Trixx and Drake.
Music

Trixx Recalls Drake's Manager Paying Him $40 to Play One of His First Records at Toronto Club

The comedian said he would've played the early Drizzy record for free but took the cash anyway.

Mark Elibert10 days ago
Cardi B.
Music

Cardi B Says Her Third Album Is in the Works: 'I'm Not Playing Around'

The Bronx rapper has shared that she's about to shift her focus to a new album after her birthday.

PlaqueBoyMax has curly hair and wears a black shirt with a necklace. Don Toliver wears glasses and a white jacket.
Music

PlaqueBoyMax Says Don Toliver Would Be Rap’s Biggest Star If He Had More Sex Appeal

The streamer says Toliver could be the biggest artist in the world if he were “sexy” and “handsome.”

Mark Elibert13 days ago
Karrahbooo singing on stage with a microphone, wearing a blue and white shirt, against a backdrop of pink and white lights.
Music

Karrahbooo Denies Lil Yachty Dating Rumors After Reunion: 'So F*cking Annoying!'

The rapper went off on X after clips of her tense "A Safe Place" reunion with Lil Yachty spread online, insisting the friendship was never romantic.

Mark Elibert16 days ago
Domani Harris, King Harris, Messiah Harris, and T.I.
Music

T.I. Reacts to His Sons Leaving Him Off Their Top Five Rapper Lists: ‘Y’all Disrespectful’

Tip had a ruthless response after none of his three sons put him in their Top 5.

Mark Elibert17 days ago
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(L-R) Lil Durk and Young Thug.
Music

Young Thug Wants OTF Members Who Testified Against Lil Durk to Get '122 Years'

Thugger has taken aim at two cooperating witnesses after Durk was found not guilty in his murder-for-hire trial.

Mark Elibert17 days ago
(L-R) Meek Mill and DJ Akademiks.
Music

Meek Mill Urges Fans to 'Mute' DJ Akademiks After Lil Durk Verdict: 'I'm Tired of His Voice'

The Philly rapper believes Ak's purpose is "to destroy successful Black men from the streets."

Trey Alston17 days ago
An illustration of 50 Cent and Kanye West facing off.
Music

The Day Kanye West Killed Gangsta Rap

On Sept. 11, 2007, two rap heavyweights went head to head in a sales battle and changed hip-hop forever. Here's how Kanye West killed gangsta rap.

5 Signed Vinyl You Need In Your Music Collection
Music

5 Signed Vinyl and CD Albums Available on Complex

Autographs by artists like YG, Gunna, and G Herbo appear on these special edition pressings that you can purchase on Complex now.

Complex Staff20 days ago

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