Memphis Rap vs. Trap

Attribute	Memphis Rap	Trap
Origin	Memphis, Tennessee	Atlanta, Georgia
Sound	Dark, gritty, sample-heavy	808 bass, hi-hats, synthesizers
Pioneers	Three 6 Mafia, Project Pat	T.I., Young Jeezy
Lyrics	Violent, horrorcore themes	Street life, drug dealing
Influence	Underground rap, horrorcore	Southern hip hop, EDM

Origins

Memphis rap and trap are two subgenres of hip-hop that have distinct origins. Memphis rap, also known as Memphis hip-hop or Memphis horrorcore, emerged in the early 1990s in Memphis, Tennessee. Artists like Three 6 Mafia, Project Pat, and Tommy Wright III were pioneers of this gritty and dark style of rap. On the other hand, trap music originated in the early 2000s in the Southern United States, particularly in Atlanta, Georgia. Artists like T.I., Young Jeezy, and Gucci Mane popularized this subgenre with their tales of street life and drug dealing.

Lyrics

One of the key differences between Memphis rap and trap is the lyrical content. Memphis rap often features horrorcore themes, with lyrics that are dark, violent, and sometimes supernatural. Artists in this subgenre often rap about murder, drugs, and the occult. On the other hand, trap music typically focuses on the struggles of street life, including poverty, violence, and drug dealing. Trap lyrics often glamorize the hustle and the trappings of success that come with it.

Sound

Another distinguishing factor between Memphis rap and trap is the sound of the music. Memphis rap is characterized by its heavy use of dark, eerie, and atmospheric production. The beats often feature haunting melodies, ominous synths, and heavy basslines. Artists in this subgenre also frequently incorporate samples from horror movies and other sources to create a chilling atmosphere. In contrast, trap music is known for its hard-hitting 808 drum patterns, catchy hooks, and energetic production. The beats in trap music are often more upbeat and club-friendly compared to the darker sound of Memphis rap.

Fashion

When it comes to fashion, Memphis rap and trap artists have distinct styles. Memphis rap artists often embrace a more gothic and underground aesthetic, with influences from punk rock and horror movies. Artists in this subgenre can be seen wearing dark clothing, chains, and sometimes even face paint. On the other hand, trap artists tend to favor a more flashy and luxurious style. They often wear designer brands, jewelry, and expensive sneakers to showcase their wealth and success.

Impact

Both Memphis rap and trap have had a significant impact on the hip-hop landscape. Memphis rap paved the way for horrorcore and influenced a generation of artists with its dark and gritty sound. Artists like Three 6 Mafia have left a lasting legacy on the genre and continue to inspire new generations of rappers. On the other hand, trap music has become one of the most popular subgenres of hip-hop in recent years. Artists like Future, Migos, and Travis Scott have brought trap music to the mainstream and helped shape the sound of contemporary hip-hop.