Among the ever-changing landscape of modern music, few styles have had the kind of impact that what is trap music has. This guide delves deeper than a basic introduction to trap music by defining trap features, detailing the process of creating your own trap masterpiece, discussing the most popular trap songs of all time, and showcasing the artists who have made their mark on the genre’s canon. Come with us as we trace the history of trap music, from its humble beginnings to the massive stages that reverberate with the throbbing beats of the world’s most famous festivals.
What is trap music?
The late ’90s saw the birth of the trap music genre in the American South, more specifically in the city of Atlanta. A typical trap beat will have powerful bass, quick hi-hats, and synths. Some of the first acts to popularize trap music were OutKast and Underground Kingz (UGK).
The essence of trap music goes beyond just words and sounds. The term “trap” is used to describe notorious drug dens, and many trap songs deal with hustling, street life, and overcoming obstacles. As it has developed into a major subgenre of hip-hop, trap house has had an impact on many other musicians and musical styles.
Historical context of trap music (evolution)
Trap music, an electronic dance genre
As a result of artists like Lex Luger, trap music became more popular in the early 2010s. Electronic dance music (EDM) trap is a subgenre that merged trap with EDM, bringing synthesizers and high-energy drops. As a result of this synthesis, trap music was able to gain traction on dance floors around the world.
Latin snare
Blending trap rhythms with Latin musical elements, Latin trap rose to prominence as a subgenre. Bad Bunny and Ozuna were successful artists who incorporated reggaeton, salsa, and other Latin rhythms into trap. The popularity of Latin trap in Spanish-speaking areas led to its eventual global fame, which aided in the genre’s spread around the world.
The trap explodes
A subgenre sometimes referred to as “trap pop” emerged when pop singers started adding trap elements into their songs in response to the meteoric rise of trap music. The distinctive sound of trap music was able to reach new heights of success because to the incorporation of trap beats into the songs of famous musicians like Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, and Rihanna.
Plot in Korean pop
K-pop, which is famous for its adaptability and openness to trying new things, incorporated trap characteristics. A lot of K-pop musicians and groups used trap rhythms in their songs, which made a hugely popular fusion that showed how the genre can work with many kinds of music.
Characteristics of trap music
Tempo
Trap music typically features a moderate to slow tempo ranging from 70 to 110 beats per minute (BPM). This slower pace contributes to the genre’s distinct and deliberate feel.
Beat
A hallmark of trap is its emphasis on heavy bass. The basslines, often produced with deep 808 kick drums, create a powerful and resonant foundation for the music.
Fast and complex hi-hat patterns are a defining characteristic, providing energy and a sense of urgency. Snare rolls, often with quick bursts, contribute to the dynamic and intense nature of the beats.
Triplet flow
The use of triplets in vocal delivery and lyrical elements is common in a trap song. This triplet flow, characterized by three equally spaced notes or beats, adds an exceptional rhythmic pattern to the lyrics and instrumental elements.
Rolls and risers with transitions
Trap music often incorporates rolls and risers in its production. These instrumental elements gradually become intense, creating anticipation before a drop. Drops are points in the music where the energy peaks, often marked by a sudden change or addition of elements.
Smooth transitions between different song sections are crucial in a trap. Trap producers use various effects, such as sweeps, stutters, and pitch shifts, to create seamless transitions between verses, choruses, and drops.
Influence of trap music on pop culture
Trap music has left a memorable mark on pop culture, transcending its origins in the Southern United States to become a global phenomenon. The influence of trap music is evident in various facets of contemporary culture. Musically, the trap’s heavy basslines, distinctive hi-hats, and bold beats have made their way into hip-hop, pop, and electronic music.
The genre’s rise on music charts and collaborations between trap artists and pop icons have blurred genre boundaries, creating music that resonates with global audiences. Beyond music, trap culture has spread into fashion, with trap music artists often becoming style influencers. The aesthetic of trap, characterized by a mix of streetwear and high fashion, has become a growing trend.
Moreover, trap’s impact extends to dance, with its catchy beats inspiring new dance styles and routines. Trap music’s themes, inspired by urban stories, have influenced visual arts and storytelling in popular media. Trap music has become a cultural force in the contemporary pop world, shaping the music industry, fashion, dance, and stories.
Conclusion
What is a trap? “Trap” can be traced to “trap houses,” where illicit activities unfold. In this context, “trap” denotes not only a genre of music but a cultural expression deeply connected to the experiences and narratives of the streets.
Trap music: Trap music is a kind of hip-hop developed in the Southern United States. The genre captures street life’s raw energy and realities, blending strong beats, angry lyrics, and emphasis on urban themes and street culture.
Historical context of trap music: Trap music originated in Atlanta, Georgia, in the late 1990s. It emerged from the local hip-hop scene and showed the rough truths of modern society, particularly in neighborhoods associated with the drug trade and street culture.
Types of trap music: Various types have emerged, showcasing the genre’s adaptability. Some notable subgenres include EDM Trap, Latin Trap, SoundCloud Trap, and Trap Soul, each incorporating unique elements into the trap framework.
Characteristics of trap music: The beat of trap music is moderate to slow, and it has heavy bass, sharp hi-hats, 808 drum patterns, and rough words that often talk about the ups and downs of street life.
Key elements of trap music: The features focus on 808 drum patterns, triplet flows in vocals, distinctive snare rolls, and atmospheric synths. These elements contribute to the genre’s signature sound.
Influence of trap music on pop culture: Trap music has significantly influenced pop culture, transcending its hip-hop roots to impact fashion, dance, and broader cultural trends. Its global appeal has blurred genre boundaries, influencing pop and electronic music.
Subgenres of trap music: Subgenres include EDM Trap, Latin Trap, SoundCloud Trap, Trap Soul, and more, showcasing the trap’s versatility and adaptability across different musical landscapes.
How to write a trap song? To write a trap song, establish a moderate to slow tempo, craft a tight drum beat with 808 patterns, create a catchy melody, and incorporate elements like snare rolls and atmospheric synths. Distortion can be used for added texture.
