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Hip-hop & Rap music
Hip-hop music has grown from a small cultural movement in the Bronx to a global phenomenon, influencing everything from fashion to politics. Born on the streets, hip-hop has always been about self-expression and storytelling. At hmv, we celebrate the artistry and evolution of hip-hop albums by offering an extensive collection that spans the golden age of the 1980s and 90s as well as the genre-defining releases of today. Whether you’re into boom-bap beats or slick lyricism, our hip-hop collection has something for every listener.
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The history of hip-hop music
DJ Kool Herc and Grandmaster Flash were among the artists leading this creative response to the socio-economic challenges faced by African-American communities in 1970s New York. However, it was artists like Run-DMC and LL Cool J who helped bring the genre into mainstream consciousness.By the 1990s, hip-hop music had solidified its place as a cultural force. The Notorious B.I.G., 2Pac and Nas crafted albums that defined the genre, with lyrics reflecting on the realities of marginalised communities.
Key hip-hop artists and influential figures
2Pac
With lyrics about the struggles of inner-city life, racism and violence, 2Pac established himself as one of the genre's leaders.The Notorious B.I.G.
Biggie Smalls was a master of laid-back delivery and vivid lyrics. He permanently changed the landscape of East Coast hip-hop.Nas
The intellectual depth of Nas' lyrics quickly established him as a hip-hop star – a position he's held onto ever since.Jay-Z
A mogul in both the music and business world, Jay-Z revolutionised hip-hop with his lyrical prowess and entrepreneurship.Kendrick Lamar
Pushing the boundary of the genre with experimental production and intricate wordsmithery, Kendrick Lamar is in a league of his own.The modern evolution of hip-hop music
From the golden age of hip-hop to the rise of trap music, the evolution of the genre has reflected the changing cultural landscape. Today, hip-hop artists are exploring new frontiers by combining electronic beats with traditional rap.Artists like Travis Scott and Drake have become global stars, making hip-hop music more diverse and accessible than ever before.
Essential hip-hop albums and recordings
- 2Pac – All Eyez on Me: A double album that blends political activism with complex storytelling and authenticity. It's an absolute essential for any hip-hop collection.
- The Notorious B.I.G. – Ready to Die: With an introspective yet gritty look into the life of a hustler, Biggie Smalls set a new standard on the East Coast.
- Nas – Illmatic: A masterful debut boasting poetic verses that remain a high-water mark for the genre.
- Jay-Z – The Blueprint: Introducing a new level of craftsmanship to hip-hop music, HOV rose to new heights with this release.
- Kendrick Lamar – To Pimp a Butterfly: Long before his feud with Drake took centre stage, Lamar delivered one of the most experimental and socially conscious hip-hop albums of the modern era.
The link between hip-hop and R&B
While hip-hop and R&B are distinct genres, their relationship has always been intertwined. They share similar roots and were fused to mainstream success in the 1990s and 2000s. Lauryn Hill combined soulful, melodic R&B vocals with hip-hop music on The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, while Alicia Keys has often paired hip-hop beats with her piano-driven ballads.Today, the likes of Janelle Monae and Frank Ocean continue to bridge the gap between the two genres and bring new levels of innovation to contemporary music.
Why buy hip-hop & Rap albums from hmv?
- Our vinyl and CD formats are perfect for any hip-hop music fan who wants to pick up something special from their favourite artist or find someone new.
- You're guaranteed to find the best hip-hop albums in our selection because we've been in the music business for over 100 years, so we know what's good.
- We've been rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot because we highly value our customers and the products and service we supply them with.
- With the assistance of Klarna, any purchase you make can be split into three interest-free instalments.
- Not satisfied with your order? That's OK – we've got a 30-day returns policy to cover you.
We are your go-to destination for all things hip-hop. Find classic vinyl, pick up a rare CD box set or check out the newest artists when you browse our collection online or at your nearest store.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us or head over to our help centre where we've answered several FAQs.
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