Which Hip Hop Artist’s Music Crosses Over Into Alternative Rap and Rhythm and Blues

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of hip hop artists crossing over into alternative rap and rhythm and blues. This has led to some great music being created that appeals to a wider range of people. In this blog post, we take a look at which hip hop artists have been able to successfully make this transition.

What is alternative rap?

Alternative rap, also known as alternative hip hop, is a subgenre of hip hop music that encompasses a wide range of styles, including underground and mainstream styles. Alternative rap is characterized by its diversity, DIY ethic, and its rejection of the commercialism of mainstream hip hop.

What is rhythm and blues?

In music, rhythm and blues, often abbreviated as R&B, is a genre that combines elements of African-American music, blues, and jump blues. Rhythm and blues was most popular with African Americans between the late 1940s and early 1960s. The term “rhythm and blues” is often used as a musical classification rather than a musical style. Despite the fact that rhythm and blues is sometimes used interchangeably with black rock, the two genres are not identical.

What hip hop artists’ music crosses over into alternative rap and rhythm and blues?

Alternative rap, also known as alternative hip hop, is a subgenre of hip hop music that includes the experimental and underground styles that are not typically associated with mainstream rap music. Alternative rap is often characterized by complex lyrics, unorthodox production, and an overall DIY aesthetic.

Rhythm and blues, or R&B, is a genre of popular music that originated in African American communities in the 1940s. It is a combination of African American musical styles such as gospel, jump blues, jazz, and blues. R&B lyrics are often about love, relationships, sex, and heartbreak.

Why does this happen?

There are a few reasons this might happen. The first could be that the artist in question is simply making good music that happens to transcend genres. This is likely the case with Kendrick Lamar, whose music has been praised by critics across the board, regardless of genre.

Another possibility is that the artist is purposely blurring the lines between genres in order to appeal to a wider audience. This could be the case with Childish Gambino (aka Donald Glover), whose most recent album “Awaken, My Love!” has been described as a mixture of hip hop, R&B, and funk.

Finally, it’s also possible that an artist’s music crosses over into other genres simply because they are popular within the mainstream hip hop community. This might be the case with Drake, whose music often features R&B elements and has been described as “soft” by some critics.

What are the benefits of this?

Hip hop artists who cross over into alternative rap and rhythm and blues often create music that is more experimental and expressive. This can lead to a more unique and interesting sound that appeals to a wider range of listeners. Additionally, these artists may be able to reach new fans who might not otherwise be exposed to hip hop music.