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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Ye and Kid Cudi
Music

Kid Cudi Reunites With Kanye West For 'Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1' During Record-Breaking Concert

Cudi was the surprise guest at Ye's tour stop that became the most-attended rap concert in U.S. history.

Trey Alston19 hours ago
Fetty Wap with long braided hair, wearing a pink shirt, smiles against a blue background.
Music

Fetty Wap Marries Alexis Hill in Lavish New Jersey Wedding

The rapper tied the knot just months after proposing following his release from prison earlier this year.

Mark Elibert1 day ago
Cardo Got Wings and Ricci Riera
Music

Your Best Beat Could Land You in a Miami Studio With Two Hip-Hop Hitmakers

Cardo Got Wings and Ricci Riera are judging a nationwide producer contest, with a Miami studio session, travel and VIP access on the line.

Maggie Ekberg3 days ago
Tay-K
Music

Tay-K Announces Prison-Recorded '#MonstersUnderMyBed,' His First Release in Nearly a Decade

The album came together over phone sessions from prison, and it arrives with an Instagram trailer and "F**K U," a new single available only on SoundCloud.

Alex Ocho4 days ago
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A black beanie with "Fresh" text and a vinyl record with a cover showing a child's face made of a collage of images.
Music

Get a Signed Copy of Lil Baby's New Album 'Fresh' and a Matching Beanie

With 'Fresh' arriving November 6, Lil Baby fans can shop signed vinyl and CD editions of the album, plus a new beanie, on Complex.

Complex Staff4 days ago
Graphic with "Complex 5 for 5 Music" text over pixelated headphones on a red background.
Music

Complex 5 for 5 Launches Daily Hip-Hop and Movie Quizzes: What to Know

This is your opportunity to flex your pop culture and music knowledge.

Complex Staff4 days ago
Skepta For Complex UK By Gabriel Moses
Music

Skepta: Microphone Champion (Cover Story)

For Complex UK’s inaugural cover story, the grime and fashion icon reflects on fame, fatherhood, artistic freedom and his brand-new album, ‘The Fork & Knife’.

(L-R) Jay-Z and Jeezy.
Music

Jeezy Celebrates 'Brother' Jay-Z and Credits Him With Securing Def Jam Deal

The Atlanta rapper has praised Hov's loyalty in a new interview and recalled how their bond helped launch his career.

Mark Elibert10 days ago
Rick Ross.
Music

Rick Ross Pleads Not Guilty as Domestic Assault Charges Reduced to Misdemeanor

Earlier this month, Rozay turned himself in to Miami Police for allegedly assaulting his girlfriend.

Joe Price10 days ago
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LL COOL J.
Music

LL COOL J Takes Rock the Bells to Las Vegas With 2027 Residency Shows

The G.O.A.T. is gearing up to take over the Park MGM next spring.

Will Lavin10 days ago
Post Malone attends the Saint Laurent Womenswear Spring/Summer 2027 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on September 29, 2026 in Paris, France.
Music

Post Malone Teases New Song Reminiscent of His Hip-Hop Output, Says 'Eternal Buzz' Is 'Coming Soon'

Post Malone has shared another teaser indicating that his next album will see a return to his signature melodic hip-hop sound.

Joe Price11 days ago
ATLANTA, GA - MAY 31: Rapper Pooh Shiesty attends Onyx Monday Nights at Onyx Nightclub on May 31, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Music

Pooh Shiesty Denies Impregnating Multiple Women: 'No Babies OTW'

The rapper addressed the allegations on Instagram Stories while in federal custody.

(L-R) John Legend and JAY-Z.
Music

John Legend Recalls Jay-Z Giving Him Some Seriously High Praise: 'You're Our Voice'

The "All of Me" hitmaker has spoken to Complex about his relationship with hip-hop and how important his connection to the culture has been over the years.

Will Lavin14 days ago