Is there a lack of rap music currently? Billboard charts indicate so.
The current state of rap music on the Billboard charts has raised questions about whether we are experiencing a rap drought. Recent reports from Billboard indicate that there is no hip hop music in the Top 40 of the Billboard 100 chart for the first time since 1990.
This milestone was reached with Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s song “Luther” falling off the Hot 100 chart, marking the absence of rap songs in the top 40. The last time a similar situation occurred was in February 1990, when Biz Markie’s “Just a Friend” was the top-ranking rap song at No. 41 before climbing to No. 29 the following week. This kicked off a streak of 35 years, eight months, and three weeks of rap songs consistently charting in the top 40.
While there are still rap songs further down on the list, like YoungBoy Never Broke Again’s “Shot Callin” at number 44 and Cardi B’s “Safe” (featuring Kehlani) at 48, the absence of hip hop in the top tier is notable. This trend has sparked discussions about whether hip hop’s commercial dominance is on the decline.
Billboard noted that recent changes in chart rules played a role in the absence of Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s collab from the top 40. The new criteria removed songs that exceeded certain durations on the chart while falling below updated chart thresholds. This shift resulted in the removal of “Luther,” which had fallen to No. 38 after spending 46 weeks on the chart.
Kendrick Lamar’s success with his 2024 album “GNX” was partly attributed to his feud with Drake, which garnered significant attention in the industry. This beef culminated in Lamar winning five Grammys in February, including major categories for his hit diss track “Not Like Us.” Meanwhile, Drake filed a lawsuit against his record label, UMG Recordings, Inc., alleging defamation related to the song’s promotion.
Although Lamar was not involved in the lawsuit, the feud between the two rappers continues, with Drake’s legal team indicating plans to file an appeal following the dismissal of the case. As hip hop enthusiasts await the next chart update, the ongoing dynamics between Kendrick Lamar and Drake promise to keep the rap scene buzzing with anticipation and intrigue.