Pop rap is a genre characterized by its fusion of hip-hop's rhythmic swagger and catchy hooks with the melodic sensibilities of pop music. Emerging in the late 1990s and peaking in the 2000s, pop rap often features syncopated, danceable beats, prominent synthesizers, and catchy, sing-along choruses. Vocal styles range from effortless, melodic flows to more aggressive, lyrical deliveries. With its origins in West Coast G-Funk and East Coast hip-hop, pop rap drew inspiration from R&B, rock, and electronic music, creating a distinctive sound that appealed to a broad audience. As a cultural phenomenon, pop rap bridged the gap between hip-hop's street credibility and mainstream pop's commercial appeal, paving the way for future genre-bending and influencing contemporary styles like trap and emo-rap. Notable for its emphasis on catchy hooks and melodic production, pop rap set itself apart from more lyrical-focused hip-hop and hardcore rap, while maintaining the genre's rebellious, youthful energy.

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Eric Bellinger

Single - Released February 6, 2026