Amidst the pulsating beats and lively rhythms of 2024’s rap scene, Southern Hip Hop has emerged as a powerful influence. This year, artists are diving into the treasure troves of the ’90s and 2000s, breathing new life into beloved Southern rap classics.
Future and Metro Boomin’s track “Like That” features Kendrick Lamar and draws from Three 6 Mafia’s 1995 hit “Gotta Touch ‘Em (Pt. 2).” With Lamar’s bold lyrics, the song merges Southern and West Coast influences, showcasing a fusion that resonates with audiences.
Tyler, The Creator brings GloRilla, Sexyy Red, and Lil Wayne together in “Sticky,” sampling Young Buck’s “Get Buck.” The track evolves with each verse, highlighted by Tyler’s playful nod to marching band renditions, making it a must-listen.
GloRilla’s collaboration with Megan Thee Stallion on “Wanna Be” blends Lil Wil’s “My Dougie” and Project Pat’s “Don’t Save Her.” However, the track faces legal challenges over claims of beat similarities with Plies’ 2008 song, stirring industry debates.
Drake’s “Push Ups” nods to Mike Jones’ “Drop & Gimme 50,” weaving in subtle taunts aimed at rival Kendrick Lamar. This playful rivalry is wrapped in layers of references, intriguing fans and music enthusiasts alike.
Sexyy Red, tapping into Hurricane Chris’ “Halle Berry (She’s Fine)” for “Get It Sexyy,” showcases the power of reinvention, where classic beats are reimagined for new audiences.
Cardi B’s freestyle “Like What” revitalizes Missy Elliott’s “She’s a Bitch,” sparking tension with BIA, who utilized the same sample earlier. The reimagined track shows the enduring appeal and competitiveness in remix culture.
GloRilla’s “Yeah Glo!” climbs the charts, using Da Banggaz314’s “Run Up Get Dun Up” as its backbone, proving her ability to turn overlooked gems into mainstream hits.
Big Sean keeps Three 6 Mafia in the conversation with “Precision,” maintaining the original essence of their 2005 hit “Poppin’ My Collar.” His homage brings nostalgia to the forefront while appealing to new listeners.
ScHoolboy Q’s “THank God 4 Me” subtly incorporates Project Pat’s “Chickenhead,” offering a fresh take on familiar sounds. This approach invigorates the track for lively performances.
Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign’s collaboration “Do It” jumps between Mustard-produced beats and Juvenile’s iconic “Back That Azz Up,” underscoring unexpected musical pairings.
Eminem’s “Road Rage” revisits Juvenile’s “Ha,” seamlessly integrating two disparate styles and demonstrating the versatility of Southern beats in diverse contexts.
Vince Staples’ “Étouffée” embraces The Showboys’ “Drag Rap,” anchoring his work deeply in New Orleans’ musical roots, while the title pays homage to the region’s culinary tradition.
GloRilla and Sexyy Red’s “Whatchu Kno About Me” is a flaunt-filled track, reinterpreting Lil Boosie’s “Wipe Me Down.” This reinvention cements their status in the Southern rap lineage.
Ice Spice’s “Phat Butt” makes clever use of Dem Franchize Boyz’s “I Think They Like Me,” blending nostalgia with modern swagger to capture attention.
Future and Metro Boomin strike again with “Ice Attack,” channeling La Chat’s “Yeah, I Rob,” illustrating their flair for resurrecting classic sounds.
DJ Unk’s “Hold On Ho” gets a fierce revamp by GloRilla in “Hollon,” showcasing her capacity to transform and energize older tracks.
Tyler, The Creator’s “Balloon” with Doechii borrows from Uncle Luke’s “I Wanna Rock,” demonstrating the track’s potential for euphoric highs.
Camila Cabello and Playboi Carti deliver “I LUV IT,” transforming Gucci Mane’s “Lemonade” into a pop-rap blend, highlighting cross-genre experimentation.
Sexyy Red collaborates with Gucci Mane on “You Don’t Love Me,” blending her style with his, and renewing “I Think I Love Her,” a testament to her homage-driven artistry.
Latto’s “Chicken Grease” evolves T.I.’s “24s,” reflecting her admiration for Southern rap legends, while “There She Go” reworks Mike Jones’ “Back Then,” celebrating personal growth.
Doechii’s “GTFO” with KUNTFETISH revives Ludacris’ “Move Bitch,” crafting a modern anthem fueled by frustration and energy.
Denzel Curry’s “Still in the Paint” draws from Waka Flocka Flame’s “Hard In Da Paint,” infusing it with contemporary flair and lyrical prowess.
Logic brings his “Mission Control” to life, channeling Gucci Mane’s “Lemonade,” and offering a fresh twist on the classic hit.
Megan Thee Stallion’s “Broke His Heart” flips Jeezy’s “I Luv It,” transforming it into a fierce display of empowerment.
In 2024, Southern rap’s classic beats are rejuvenated, blending past and present to create a rich musical tapestry. Artists across genres are honoring history while pushing creative boundaries, ensuring Southern Hip Hop remains a cornerstone of modern music.
