The 2020s have been a wild ride for hip hop, guys! We've seen new artists explode onto the scene, established legends reinvent themselves, and the sound of rap continue to evolve in crazy and exciting ways. So, let's dive into some of the most popular hip hop songs that have dominated the decade so far. Get ready to update your playlists because these tracks are absolute fire!

Chart-Topping Bangers: The Biggest Hip Hop Hits

When we talk about the biggest hip hop hits, we're talking about the tracks that have taken over the airwaves, dominated streaming platforms, and become cultural touchstones. These are the songs you hear everywhere, from TikTok to the grocery store, and they define the sound of the early 2020s.

One of the defining characteristics of these chart-toppers is their blend of catchy hooks and infectious beats. Think about songs like "WAP" by Cardi B featuring Megan Thee Stallion. Love it or hate it, you couldn't escape it in 2020! The track's bold lyrics and undeniable energy made it a viral sensation and a cultural phenomenon, sparking countless debates and cementing its place in hip hop history. Its impact on the industry and popular culture is undeniable and highlights the increasing power of female voices in hip hop.

Another example is "Rockstar" by DaBaby featuring Roddy Ricch. This track's melancholic melody and introspective lyrics resonated with listeners during a time of global uncertainty. The fusion of DaBaby's signature rapid-fire delivery with Roddy Ricch's melodic flow created a unique sound that appealed to a wide audience and propelled the song to the top of the charts. It's a track that speaks to the complexities of fame and the struggles of navigating success in a turbulent world.

These chart-topping bangers often incorporate elements from other genres, reflecting the increasingly diverse and experimental nature of hip hop. Artists are drawing inspiration from R&B, pop, electronic music, and even Latin music, creating a sound that is both familiar and innovative. This fusion of genres has helped to broaden the appeal of hip hop and attract new listeners from around the world. Think about the influence of Latin trap on the current hip hop landscape, with artists like Bad Bunny and J Balvin collaborating with hip hop artists and bringing their unique flavor to the genre.

TikTok Sensations: Viral Hip Hop Tracks

Tiktok, man, has become a HUGE force in the music industry, and hip hop is no exception. A catchy beat or a memorable dance challenge can send a track straight to the top of the charts. Let's check out some of the viral hip hop tracks that have blown up thanks to TikTok.

Tracks like Erica Banks' "Buss It" gained massive popularity through the #BussItChallenge, where users transformed their appearance in time with the beat drop. The song's confident lyrics and infectious energy made it a perfect fit for the platform, and the challenge helped to spread the word and introduce Erica Banks to a wider audience. This is a classic example of how TikTok can be used to launch a new artist's career, and it highlights the importance of understanding the platform's culture and trends.

Another TikTok sensation is Popp Hunna's "Adderall (Corvette Corvette)." Its playful lyrics and energetic delivery made it a favorite among users, and the song quickly became a staple on the platform. The song's success is a testament to the power of virality, and it shows how a relatively unknown artist can break through the noise and reach a massive audience through TikTok. It's also a reminder that sometimes the simplest and most fun songs are the ones that resonate the most with listeners.

These TikTok hip hop tracks often feature catchy hooks, simple beats, and relatable lyrics. They're designed to be easily digestible and shareable, making them perfect for the platform's fast-paced and visually driven environment. Artists are increasingly creating music with TikTok in mind, crafting songs that are specifically designed to go viral. This has led to a new wave of hip hop that is both innovative and accessible, and it's exciting to see how the platform continues to shape the sound of the genre.

Underground Gems: Emerging Hip Hop Artists

While the mainstream charts are dominated by established names, there's a thriving underground hip hop scene that's constantly pushing boundaries and experimenting with new sounds. These emerging hip hop artists are the future of the genre, and they're creating some of the most exciting and innovative music out there.

Artists like MIKE, with his introspective lyrics and lo-fi production, have gained a cult following for their raw and authentic sound. His music is often deeply personal, exploring themes of grief, loss, and resilience. MIKE's unique style and uncompromising vision have made him a leading figure in the underground hip hop scene, and he's inspired a new generation of artists to embrace their individuality and create music that is true to themselves.

Another underground hip hop artist making waves is redveil, a young rapper and producer who is known for his complex rhymes and intricate beats. His music is both intellectual and emotional, tackling complex social issues and personal struggles with equal skill. Redveil's talent and dedication have earned him critical acclaim, and he's quickly becoming one of the most exciting new voices in hip hop.

These underground gems often prioritize artistic expression over commercial appeal, creating music that is both challenging and rewarding. They're not afraid to experiment with new sounds and push the boundaries of the genre, and they're constantly evolving and innovating. This is where you'll find some of the most creative and original music in hip hop, and it's well worth exploring if you're looking for something different.

The Sound of Now: Defining Hip Hop Trends

So, what are the defining trends in hip hop in the 2020s? We're seeing a few key themes emerge:

• Melodic Rap: Artists like Roddy Ricch and Lil Baby have popularized a style that blends rapping with singing, creating tracks that are both catchy and emotionally resonant. This trend has helped to broaden the appeal of hip hop and attract new listeners who might not have been drawn to the genre in the past. The use of auto-tune and vocal effects has also become increasingly common, adding another layer of complexity to the sound.
• Drill Music: Originating in Chicago and popularized in the UK, drill is a dark and aggressive subgenre characterized by its ominous beats and violent lyrics. Artists like Pop Smoke and Fivio Foreign have brought drill to the mainstream, and it's now one of the most popular sounds in hip hop. The raw energy and unfiltered aggression of drill music have resonated with a new generation of listeners, and it's a testament to the genre's ability to reflect the realities of urban life.
• Female Empowerment: Female rappers are dominating the charts and challenging the male-dominated status quo. Artists like Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, and Doja Cat are creating music that is both empowering and unapologetically feminine, and they're inspiring a new generation of young women to embrace their individuality and take control of their own narratives. The rise of female voices in hip hop is one of the most exciting developments in the genre, and it's helping to create a more diverse and inclusive landscape.

Keep Your Ears Open! The Future of Hip Hop

Hip hop in the 2020s is all about innovation, experimentation, and pushing boundaries. From chart-topping bangers to TikTok sensations to underground gems, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The genre is constantly evolving, and it's exciting to see where it will go next. So, keep your ears open, stay curious, and get ready for another decade of incredible music!

What are some of your favorite hip hop songs of the 2020s? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

I hope you enjoyed this look at the most popular hip hop songs of the 2020s. There are many awesome songs that continue to emerge in the music scene and become top of the charts. Keep discovering and listening to more music to further appreciate hip hop and the awesome artists that make great and new tracks for us!