UK Rap, Grime & Drill

The Arrival of Grime

The turn of the century saw the arrival of grime, a distinctly British genre that combined elements of UK garage and jungle with a rapping style influenced by dancehall. Artists like Dizzee Rascal, Wiley, and Kano emerged from this scene, and they started to gain mainstream success, marking the first time UK rap broke into the popular consciousness on a large scale.

Drill Music: A New Chapter

Around the mid-2010s, a new genre began to make waves in the UK music scene – drill. Originating in Chicago, drill music was adopted and reinvented by UK artists, particularly those in London. UK drill music is defined by its dark, violent, and often nihilistic lyrical content, which usually reflects the harsh realities of life in inner-city areas.

Artists like Headie One, Digga D, and the collective 67 are among those who have brought UK drill to the forefront of the rap scene. Despite controversy and criticism related to its themes, drill music has proven to be an influential and popular subgenre of UK rap.

Breaking into the Mainstream

UK rap and drill have made significant inroads into the mainstream over the last decade, with artists regularly topping the charts and achieving international success. Stormzy's headline performance at Glastonbury in 2019 was a watershed moment for the genre, while Dave’s album 'Psychodrama' won the prestigious Mercury Prize the same year.

The Future of UK Rap, Grime and Drill

As we move further into the 21st century, the UK rap and drill scenes show no signs of slowing down. With the continuing success of established artists and the emergence of exciting new talent, the future looks bright for these uniquely British genres.

Popular UK Rap, Grime & Drill Artists

• Stormzy

  Often hailed as the 'King of Grime,' Stormzy has been instrumental in propelling UK rap and grime to mainstream success, known for his sharp lyrics and powerful delivery.
• Dave

  A BRIT Award winner, Dave's poignant storytelling and musicianship blend to make a distinct sound that resonates with many, tackling subjects like racial inequality and mental health.
• Headie One

  His unique flow and raw lyricism have made Headie One a prominent figure in the UK drill scene, with tracks often reflecting on his life experiences.
• Kano

  A pioneer of grime, Kano's lyrical prowess and authentic East London sound have solidified his status as a leading figure in UK rap.
• Skepta

  This Mercury Prize-winning artist has been a significant force in grime, known for his energetic performances and collaborations with international artists.
• J Hus

  Fusing afrobeats, dancehall, and grime, J Hus's innovative style has made him one of the UK's most distinctive and influential rap artists.
• AJ Tracey

  With hits spanning grime, UK garage, and drill, AJ Tracey's eclectic style and engaging storytelling make him a versatile figure in the UK rap scene.
• Slowthai

  Known for his punk-influenced approach to rap and provocative political commentary, Slowthai is a dynamic and distinctive voice in the UK scene.
• Giggs

  A pioneer of UK road rap, Giggs's deep-toned voice and laid-back delivery style have made him a respected figure in the UK rap scene.
• Fredo

  With his captivating storytelling, Fredo has made a significant mark in the UK rap scene, often exploring themes of street life and his rise to success.

Conclusion

From its early beginnings to its current mainstream success, UK rap and drill have shown the world that British artists have a unique voice and perspective, contributing significantly to the global music scene. As these genres continue to evolve and push boundaries, one thing is certain: UK rap and drill are here to stay.