2016 was a defining year for hip hop, delivering a diverse mix of chart-topping hits, introspective narratives, and groundbreaking sounds. From established icons to emerging talents, the hip hop top songs of 2016 showcased the genre’s evolution and enduring influence on popular culture.
The Reign of Trap and the Rise of Mumble Rap
2016 saw trap music solidify its dominance in the mainstream. Artists like Future, Young Thug, and Migos continued to push the boundaries of the subgenre, crafting infectious melodies and hard-hitting beats that resonated with a massive audience. Simultaneously, mumble rap, characterized by its often slurred and melodic delivery, began its ascent into the spotlight, with artists like Desiigner and Lil Yachty gaining significant traction. This era also marked the increasing integration of hip hop with other genres, notably R&B and pop. Drake’s “Hotline Bling” exemplified this fusion, blending smooth vocals with catchy rap verses, becoming one of the biggest hits of the year. Check out our 2016 top rap songs list for a complete overview of the year’s hottest tracks.
What were the most popular hip hop subgenres in 2016?
Trap and mumble rap were the dominant subgenres in 2016, shaping the overall sound and style of hip hop during that period.
Lyrical Genius and Conscious Hip Hop
While trap and mumble rap dominated the charts, 2016 also witnessed a resurgence of conscious hip hop. Kendrick Lamar’s critically acclaimed album, To Pimp a Butterfly, continued to influence the landscape, sparking conversations about race, identity, and social injustice. Chance the Rapper’s Coloring Book offered a refreshing blend of gospel and hip hop, delivering uplifting messages of hope and faith. These artists demonstrated that hip hop could be both commercially successful and intellectually stimulating. Explore our 2016 top 100 hiphop songs spotify playlist for a comprehensive collection of the year’s hits.
Who were some of the key figures in conscious hip hop during 2016?
Kendrick Lamar and Chance the Rapper were pivotal figures in conscious hip hop, pushing the boundaries of the genre and addressing important social issues through their music.
The Impact of Streaming Services
The rise of streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music significantly impacted hip hop in 2016. These services provided artists with new avenues for distribution and discovery, while also influencing the types of music being created. The “playlist era” began to take shape, with shorter songs and catchy hooks becoming increasingly prevalent as artists aimed for inclusion on popular playlists. You can dive deeper into this topic with our top rap songs 2016 article.
Anthony Fantano, renowned music critic, notes, “2016 was a year of transition, where streaming solidified its grip on the music industry, influencing the way hip hop was consumed and created.”
Dr. Emily Carter, Professor of Musicology, adds, “The accessibility of music through streaming platforms broadened the reach of hip hop, allowing for greater diversity and experimentation within the genre.”
Conclusion
Hip Hop Top Songs 2016 reflected a vibrant and dynamic year for the genre. From the infectious beats of trap to the thought-provoking lyrics of conscious hip hop, the music of 2016 captured the diverse landscape and evolving sounds of the era. Check out our best drake songs top ten list for a curated selection of Drake’s top tracks. Don’t forget to explore our 99.5 top songs 2016 as well!
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