Trap

Definition

Trap is a subgenre of hip-hop music that originated in the Southern United States during the late 1990s and early 2000s, characterized by its use of heavy bass, hi-hats, and synthesizers. This genre often reflects themes related to street life, struggle, and the drug trade, merging gritty lyrics with catchy beats that engage listeners and evoke a sense of urgency.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Trap music gets its name from the term 'trap,' which refers to a place where drugs are sold; thus, many songs focus on themes surrounding this lifestyle.
2. Key producers in trap music include Lex Luger and Mike WiLL Made-It, who helped shape its sound and bring it to mainstream popularity.
3. The genre is known for its unique production style that often uses rapid hi-hat patterns, heavy sub-bass lines, and atmospheric synths.
4. Artists such as T.I., Gucci Mane, and Young Jeezy were among the pioneers of trap music, laying the groundwork for its evolution and popularity.
5. In recent years, trap has influenced other genres like pop and EDM, leading to collaborations that have broadened its reach beyond traditional hip-hop audiences.

Review Questions

• How did trap music originate and what are some of its defining characteristics?
  • Trap music originated in the late 1990s and early 2000s in the Southern United States. Its defining characteristics include heavy basslines, rapid hi-hat rhythms, and synthesizers. The lyrics often reflect themes associated with street life and drug dealing, which gives it a gritty yet relatable feel. Artists like T.I. and Gucci Mane were instrumental in establishing these features that continue to define the genre today.
• Analyze the impact of producers on the evolution of trap music within the hip-hop genre.
  • Producers like Lex Luger and Mike WiLL Made-It have played a critical role in shaping trap music's sound, introducing innovative production techniques that became hallmarks of the genre. Their work not only helped define the sonic elements of trap but also elevated the profiles of numerous artists by creating beats that complemented their lyrical content. This collaboration between artists and producers has driven the genre's growth within hip-hop, influencing mainstream pop music as well.
• Evaluate how trap music has influenced other musical genres beyond hip-hop and what this means for its future.
  • Trap music's influence has extended beyond hip-hop into genres like pop, electronic dance music (EDM), and even rock. This cross-genre appeal has led to collaborations between trap artists and musicians from various backgrounds, indicating its growing mainstream acceptance. As trap continues to evolve and integrate elements from other genres, it is likely to remain a dominant force in shaping contemporary music trends while also fostering new creative expressions.

Related terms

Hip-hop: A cultural movement and musical genre that includes various elements like rapping, DJing, graffiti art, and breakdancing.

Atlanta: A major city in Georgia recognized as a central hub for the development of trap music and home to many influential artists and producers.

808s: A type of drum machine that became a staple in trap music production, known for its deep bass sounds and sharp snares.