Rapping and country music might seem like two genres that have nothing in common, but in recent years, artists have been blending the two styles to create a unique sound as rapping in country songs has become increasingly popular.
However, others argue that the blend of the two styles is a natural evolution of music and reflects the changing tastes of listeners. This trend has also opened up new opportunities for aspiring artists who may not fit neatly into one genre or the other.
Despite the initial scepticism, rapping in country songs has proven to be a successful formula for many artists.
The catchy beats and infectious lyrics of these songs have resonated with audiences around the world, making them chart-topping hits.
Origins of Rapping in Country Music
The origins of rapping in country music can be traced back to the 1970s when country music began to incorporate elements of other genres.
The fusion of country and hip-hop music was not an immediate success, but it gradually gained popularity in the 1990s.
One of the earliest examples of rapping in country music was in the 1980s when country artist Charlie Daniels included a spoken-word section in his hit song “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.”
However, it was not until the 1990s that rapping became a more prominent feature in country music.
Artists such as Cowboy Troy and Big & Rich began incorporating rap into their country songs, creating a new sub-genre known as “hick-hop.”
The success of hick-hop paved the way for other country artists to experiment with rapping in their music.
Today, artists like Florida Georgia Line and Jason Aldean regularly incorporate rap into their songs, blurring the lines between country and hip-hop even further.
Key Artists and Influencers
Pioneers of Rap-Country Fusion
One of the first artists to blend these two genres was Cowboy Troy, who released his debut album “Hick Hop Hooray” in 2005.
Cowboy Troy’s unique style of fusing rap and country music has paved the way for other artists to follow in his footsteps.
Another pioneer in the rap-country genre is Bubba Sparxxx. His debut album “Dark Days, Bright Nights” released in 2001, featured a unique blend of country and rap music.
Bubba Sparxxx’s success in the music industry has helped to popularize rap-country music and inspire other artists to experiment with this style.
Contemporary Country Rappers
In recent years, there has been a surge in the number of artists blending rap and country music.
One of the most popular contemporary country rappers is Lil Nas X, who shot to fame with his hit single “Old Town Road” in 2019.
The song, which features a mix of country and rap music, spent a record-breaking 19 weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Another prominent artist in the rap-country genre is Blanco Brown. His hit single “The Git Up” features a catchy mix of country and rap music and has become a viral sensation on social media platforms like TikTok.
Blanco Brown’s success has helped to further popularize rap-country music and inspire other artists to experiment with this style.
Now let’s move on to the famous rapping country songs.
10 Famous Rapping Country Songs That Blend Genres Beautifully
1. Old Town Road (Remix) – Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus (2019)
This genre-bending smash hit took the world by storm, topping charts globally and sparking social media debates.
Lil Nas X’s smooth rap verses seamlessly blend with Cyrus’ classic country twang, all riding a catchy trap beat that samples Nine Inch Nails’ “34 Ghosts IV.”
Its unique blend and infectious energy propelled it to become a diamond-certified single, breaking records and pushing the boundaries of country music.
2. Cruise (Remix) – Florida Georgia Line ft. Nelly (2012)
This collaboration brought together two superstars from different worlds, and the result was pure magic.
Nelly’s rap verses add a swagger and rhythm to the original country ballad, while the Florida Georgia Line brothers maintain the song’s core sentiment of cruising down a backroad with someone special.
This remix became a country radio staple, proving the fusion of rap and country could be commercially successful.
3. The Git Up (Challenge) – Blanco Brown (2019)
This infectious party anthem combines traditional fiddle and banjo instrumentation with a driving hip-hop beat and Brown’s energetic rapping.
The song’s signature “git up” line became a viral dance challenge, further propelling its popularity.
The blend of old-school country elements with modern rap production creates a unique soundscape that’s both nostalgic and contemporary.
4. Accidental Racist – Brad Paisley ft. LL Cool J (2013)
This thought-provoking song tackles sensitive themes of race and stereotypes through the unlikely pairing of country star Brad Paisley and rap legend LL Cool J.
Paisley’s introspective lyrics reflect on personal experiences, while LL Cool J offers a counterpoint from the perspective of a young Black man.
The song’s rap verses add depth and urgency to the conversation, sparking dialogue and challenging preconceived notions.
5. Dirt Road Anthem – Jason Aldean (2010)
This anthem for rural life blends Southern rock and hip-hop influences with Aldean’s signature gravel-road vocals.
The song’s lyrics celebrate small-town values, hard work, and the simple pleasures of country living.
The driving rap verses add energy and relatability, resonating with listeners who share a similar rural upbringing.
6. Drinkin’ Too Much – Sam Hunt (2014)
This introspective ballad uses a blend of country and hip-hop elements to explore themes of heartbreak and self-reflection.
Hunt’s smooth vocals and introspective lyrics are complemented by a rap verse that adds a layer of vulnerability and honesty.
The song’s fusion of genres creates a raw and relatable listening experience.
7. Superman – Toby Keith ft. Trae tha Truth (2008)
This unlikely collaboration between country music veteran Toby Keith and Houston rapper Trae tha Truth offers a unique perspective on American patriotism.
Keith’s traditional country vocals juxtapose Trae’s rapid-fire rap verses, creating a dynamic dialogue that celebrates everyday heroes and the American spirit.
8. Workin’ On – Colt Ford ft. Brad Paisley (2010)
This blue-collar anthem combines elements of country, rock, and hip-hop to celebrate the struggles and triumphs of everyday people.
Ford’s gruff vocals perfectly complement Paisley’s smoother melodies, and the driving rap verses add energy and momentum to the song.
9. Country – Tyler, The Creator (2019)
While not strictly a country song, Tyler, The Creator’s “Country” incorporates several elements of the genre into his unique musical tapestry.
The song features playful banjo and acoustic guitar alongside his signature rap style, creating a genre-bending blend that pushes boundaries and challenges definitions.
10. Wagon Wheel – Darius Rucker (2013)
This bluegrass standard has become a modern jam anthem thanks to its infectious chorus and singalong potential.
While not technically “rap,” the song’s fast-paced spoken-word verses have a hip-hop feel, adding a layer of energy and complexity to the traditional folk song.
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Performances Of Songs.
| Song Title | Peak Position | Weeks on Chart | Date Entered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Town Road (Remix) | 1 | 19 weeks | April 8, 2019 |
| Cruise (Remix) | 16 | 46 weeks | August 11, 2012 |
| The Git Up (Challenge) | 34 | 15 weeks | June 8, 2019 |
| Accidental Racist | 15 | 20 weeks | February 16, 2013 |
| Dirt Road Anthem | 14 | 32 weeks | April 17, 2010 |
| Drinkin’ Too Much | 25 | 20 weeks | August 9, 2014 |
| Superman | 83 | 8 weeks | June 7, 2008 |
| Workin’ On | 85 | 5 weeks | July 31, 2010 |
| Country | 72 | 2 weeks | August 24, 2019 |
| Wagon Wheel | 15 | 26 weeks | August 06, 2013 |
Conclusion
- Rapping country songs infuses tradition with contemporary flair, bridging musical divides.
- It revitalizes narratives with rapid-fire delivery, adding depth and dynamism.
- The fusion amplifies storytelling, enriching lyrical landscapes.
- It fosters inclusivity, attracting diverse audiences to the genre’s roots. Innovation meets authenticity, breathing new life into familiar tunes.
- It’s a testament to the evolution of music, embracing experimentation while honouring heritage.
- Rapping reinvents the country’s rhythm, inviting listeners on a rhythmic journey.
- In a world of genres, it blurs boundaries, forging connections through shared experiences.
- Ultimately, rapping country songs transcends categorization, embodying the spirit of creativity and unity in music.