by Crystal White

Created on: June 17, 2009   Last Updated: June 18, 2009

It is hard to single out one place or one name synonymous with Southern Rap because this section, of the voluminous library rap has became, is deep and branching. So many aspects of the Southern Culture have labeled certain artist's works as just that and if you ask any hip-hop aficionado, they will tell you that down South, is where it all began.

To delve into influences for the genre and who was the first artist to brand the style would be futile. In 2009, we continue to see artists bite off that southern style in ways that has their music sounding very similar but lacking that accented and southern slanged authenticity. To really understand what the style "sounds" like, there are several artists who keep it "Dirty South" all the time. No one does this better than the "ATL".

ATL is an abbreviation of course but to hip-hop, its a royal society. A group of Georgia-Born artists such as Usher, Ludracris, Jermaine Dupri, Outkast and many others are at the core. ATL music is catchy and gets you moving with clever lyrics and dance beats that rock out in clubs nationwide. You get lots of that "Southern Slang and Drawl" and much of it becomes everyday language in the world of Rap and Hip-Hop. Another important Southern Artist is none other than Lil' Wayne. Need I go into detail about how he literally "blew up" in the rap game over the past few years? While he is considered a veteran, Lil' Wayne has put a new stamp on Southern Rap. He represents the 'Nolia, or the Magnolia, the community in New Orleans, Louisiana where he calls homes. You cant get much further South than New Orleans and you cant get much more Southern Rap than the Lil' Wayne.

Lil' Wayne is the best example of how slang and Southern phrases have taken over rap music. Have you ever found yourself listening to one of his songs and wondering just what the hell he had said? Well, when Southerners hear it, they know exactly what he is saying, the first time they hear it. They understand the slang and rhymes that aren't really rhymes but flow so well that is makes no difference. When everyone else in the country hears it, they hear that accent along with a "countryfied" delivery and they are intrigued.

Small Town groups have also played a vital role in the movement of Southern Rap. They are those that perform at the local clubs, the county fairs, and even birthday parties for the not so rich and famous. They do it without much fanfare, only comfort in knowing that they are performing their homegrown art.

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