What is a soundcloud rapper?

A SoundCloud rapper is a musician who gained fame and popularity by posting their music on the audio streaming platform SoundCloud during the mid-to-late 2010s. These artists created a new subgenre of hip-hop music known as “SoundCloud rap,” which changed how rap music sounded and how new artists could become famous without traditional record labels.

History

Early Days of SoundCloud

SoundCloud started 2007 as a website where people could share music and audio files. In the early 2010s, many young rappers started using SoundCloud to post their songs because it was free and easy to use. Unlike other music platforms, SoundCloud lets artists upload their music without a record deal or professional studio recordings.

Rise of SoundCloud Rap

The SoundCloud rap movement took off between 2015 and 2017. Rappers like Lil Pump, XXXTentacion, and Lil Uzi Vert gained millions of song plays through the platform. These artists didn’t need radio play or music videos on TV to get famous. Instead, they built huge followings directly through SoundCloud and social media.

Musical Style

Sound and Production

SoundCloud rap has its distinct sound. The music often uses heavy bass, distorted sounds, and simple melodies. Many SoundCloud rappers record their vocals in bedrooms or home studios instead of professional recording spaces. This gives the music a raw, unpolished feel that many fans enjoy.

Vocal Delivery

SoundCloud rappers often use Auto-Tune to change the sound of their voices. They might mumble their words or sing rap instead of using traditional rap flows. The lyrics frequently discuss drugs, money, sadness, and relationships. Many SoundCloud rappers scream or use very emotional voices in their songs.

Culture and Image

Fashion and Style

SoundCloud rappers created their fashion style. They often have colorful dreadlocks or braided hair and face tattoos. Many wear designer clothes mixed with streetwear brands. Their style influences young people and has changed how rap artists present themselves.

Social Media Presence

These artists are very active on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter. They connect directly with fans and share parts of their daily lives. Many SoundCloud rappers became famous for their personalities, social media posts, and music.

Impact on the Music Industry

Breaking Traditional Rules

SoundCloud rappers changed how artists could become successful in music. Before SoundCloud, most rappers needed record labels to help them reach fans. SoundCloud rappers proved artists could build huge followings on their own through the internet.

Influence on Mainstream Music

The sound of SoundCloud rap has influenced many mainstream artists. Big record labels started signing SoundCloud rappers, spreading their style to popular music. Even artists who didn’t start on SoundCloud began using similar sounds and styles in their music.

Notable SoundCloud Rappers

Early Success Stories

Lil Uzi Vert became one of the first SoundCloud rappers to achieve mainstream success. His song “XO Tour Llif3” started on SoundCloud but later reached the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showing other young artists they could succeed through the platform.

Controversial Figures

XXXTentacion and 6ix9ine gained fame on SoundCloud but also faced many controversies. Their personal lives and legal troubles received as much attention as their music, which showed how SoundCloud rappers often became famous for more than just their songs.

Current Generation

Modern SoundCloud rappers continue the style but with changes. Artists like Trippie Redd and Ski Mask the Slump God started on SoundCloud and still maintain original sound elements while expanding into new styles.

Making Music

Production Methods

SoundCloud rappers often make music with basic equipment. Many use cheap microphones and free music software on laptops. The focus is on creating and sharing music quickly rather than spending lots of time perfecting songs.

Distribution Strategy

These artists release music frequently and suddenly. They might release several songs in one week or surprise fans with new releases. This keeps fans interested and helps build excitement around their music.

Fan Culture

Online Communities

SoundCloud rap fans create strong online communities. They share songs, make memes, and discuss their favorite artists on social media. These communities help spread new music and turn unknown artists into stars.

Concert Experience

SoundCloud rap concerts are known for high energy and wild behavior. Fans mosh, crowd surf, and sing along loudly. These shows feel different from traditional rap concerts and create special connections between artists and fans.

Business Model

Monetization

Early SoundCloud rappers didn’t make money directly from their songs on the platform. Instead, they earned money through concert tickets, merchandise, and brand deals. After getting famous, many signed record deals but kept their independent spirit.

Marketing Approach

These artists market themselves differently from traditional rappers. They use memes, viral videos, and internet drama to get attention. Their marketing often feels more authentic and less planned than mainstream artists.

Legacy and Future

Cultural Impact

SoundCloud rap changed how young people think about making music. It showed that anyone could become a famous musician with internet access and creativity, influencing how new artists approach their careers.

Evolution of the Genre

The original SoundCloud rap sound continues to change. Newer artists mix it with other styles and add their ideas. While some say SoundCloud rap is over, its influence remains strong in modern music.

Industry Changes

The success of SoundCloud rappers forced the music industry to change. Record labels now look for artists with strong online followings, and streaming platforms have become more important than traditional radio play or album sales.

Criticism and Controversy

Music Quality Debates

Some criticize SoundCloud rap for its poor sound quality and simple lyrics. Traditional hip-hop fans often say it lacks the skill and meaning of classic rap music. Others defend it as a new art form that doesn’t need to follow old rules.

Social Issues

Many SoundCloud rappers faced criticism for promoting drug use and dangerous behavior. Several famous artists died young from drug overdoses. This led to discussions about responsibility and influence in music.

Global Influence

International Spread

SoundCloud rap spread beyond the United States. Artists in other countries started making similar music and building online followings, creating new versions of the style in different languages and cultures.

Genre Mixing

The style influenced other types of music besides rap. Pop singers, rock bands, and electronic musicians started using ideas from SoundCloud rap. This shows how the movement changed music as a whole.

Technology Role

Platform Evolution

SoundCloud itself changed because of these rappers. The website added new features and changed how music could be shared. Other platforms like Spotify and Apple Music had to adapt to compete with SoundCloud’s influence.

Recording Innovation

SoundCloud rappers showed how good music could be made with basic technology. This encouraged music equipment companies to make better products for home recording and changed how professional studios work with new artists.

The SoundCloud rapper movement represents a major change in how music is made and shared. These artists created new sounds, styles, and ways of becoming famous. While the original movement may have peaked, its effects continue influencing modern music and culture. SoundCloud rappers proved that anyone with talent and internet access could become a successful musician without following traditional paths to fame.