The underground rap scene is obscure and surrounded by many sounds. Taking a deep dive to the underground will reveal a vast world of rap subgenres. The underground is constantly pushing barriers and trying new sounds. The underground rap scene is very young and full of artists influenced by many different genres, often mixing them with the classic trap sound. You may listen to rap and think it’s all one genre, but it’s actually categorized into many different subgenres with their own unique sound.
One of the most if not the most popular subgenres in the underground is Pluggnb. Pluggnb is a rap subgenre emerging from the “Plugg ” subgenre using its 808s and high-hitting percussions while mixing in elements from R&B, hence the name. Pluggnb uses classic trap drum patterns but emphasizes the use of melodic layered leads usually with synth melodies, often implementing a synthesized electric guitar or jazzy chords to enrich the depth of the music. Pluggnb artists use melodic, energetic, and vibrant vocals to complete the melodic lush instrumentals. Although artists such as “Corey Lingo” are credited with the birth of Pluggnb, artists from the collective “Slayworld” are credited for popularizing the genre and being the most influential. The two most popular and influential artists in Pluggnb, “Summrs” and “Autumn!” emerged from Slayworld. In 2018, the two would start gaining traction, eventually popularizing Pluggnb. Pluggnb is also credited for the rebirth of Contemporary R&B, ditching the trap elements. Artists such as “Jssr” and “Lawsy” are ahead of that movement. Pluggnb is one of the most iconic underground rap subgenres and is ever-growing today with artists such as “Lil Shine” continuing to push the genre to the top.
A newer exciting subgenre of the underground rap scene, emerging in the early 2020s, is “Regalia”. Headlined by artists like “Jace!” and “Devstacks”, Regalia is a style of trap that uses classical elements such as rich sweeping strings, hazy piano passages, and glorious bells to create a dramatic euphoric atmosphere. The orchestral melodies behind the cinematic trap elements bring the listener into a whole new world, making them feel like they’re in a movie trailer about an enchanted mystical kingdom that has taken over the world. The celestial cinematic production provides a slate for artists to use emotive, heart-wrenching vocals emphasizing the depth and artistry of the subgenre. Producers like “Royalansem”, “Reset” and “The Hills” collective are known for pioneering the beautiful sound. Rapper “Jace” would begin working with these Regalia producers and would begin releasing Regalia tracks then in turn popularizing the subgenre. Jace is known as “the father of Regalia,” having Regalia’s most popular tracks such as “God” in which Jace uses the track as a cry for help asking god, “God, have you been thinkin’ ’bout me?” and “God, do you hear me cry?” repeatedly on the track over a beautiful cinematic instrumental. Regalia is very new but has a bright future. With the artistry that goes into making Regalia tracks, I believe the sound will grow to be appreciated and has the utmost potential to continue growing.
A subgenre of the underground rap scene that will never bore listeners is Hyperpop. Hyperpop is a vast genre but I’ll be only speaking about the rap influenced side of Hyperpop. Hyperpop is characterized by its electronic loud nature and hectic energy. The subgenre uses glitchy synths and distorted 808s that create a very energetic booming sound. Artists use a lot of energy behind their vocals, usually talking about their emotions blending with the high intensity of the instrumentals. Songs can feel like a crazy rave song that is used as a rant and a place to dump the deepest of emotions. “Midwxst”, “Glaive”, and “Ericdoa” are undoubtedly the big three Hyperpop artists using thesound in the underground rap scene. “I Know You Hate Me” by Midwxst is a perfect example of the subgenre, leading with a playfull guitar, then hitting listeners with loud distorted synths and 808s as Midwxst rants about his messy relationship with the highest of energy. Hyperpop is a perfect listen for people full of emotions wanting to get them out. The sound is almost like an audio version of a rage room. Many artists have taken their own dive into the genre as the genre continues to grab the ears of listeners with its exciting, energetic atmosphere.
As the underground rap scene continues to grow, so will the variety of sounds. There are so many different unique sounds in the underground rap scene ranging from the softer, classical-inspired Regalia to the harsh decibels of Hyperpop. With artists continuing to try new sounds and bring in elements from all corners of music, I believe rap is a very exciting time. Sooner than later, the classic trap sounds of what people believe stereotypical rap sounds like will be overshadowed by an appreciation for the ever-changing, barrier-breaking genre.
