“Rap isn’t like all other music, it’s a different way to relate to hardships throughout life,” says Hunter Roush (10). Rap music has something for a wide range of people to listen to because of how much it varies. “If you listen to the lyrics in depth, they really tell a story and express feelings,” says Roush. Rap music originated in the 1970s as a street art in the United States and caught record labels’ eyes near 1980. It became more popular over the years, creating a whole new sound for music. In the 1980s, white male rap bands such as The Beastie Boys and female rappers such as Salt-n-Pepa became popular. People can also often view rap music in a negative light. “Just because you listen to rap doesn’t mean you’re a good or bad person,” says Roush, “I think the type of music you listen to shouldn’t define you or your personality.”

Top 5 Rap Songs:

1. Anaconda- Nicki Minaj
2. Black Widow- Iggy Azalea ft. Rita Ora
3. Hot Boy- Bobby Shmurda
4. Fancy- Iggy Azalea ft. Charli XCX
5. Lifestyle- Rich Gang ft. Young Thug & Rich