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The history of Atlanta Hip-Hop runs deep, rising from a regional influence to a global powerhouse.

While hip-hop originated in New York City on this day in 1973, Atlanta’s journey began nearly a decade later, when local emcees started to make their mark. Over the years, Atlanta has become synonymous with innovation in hip-hop, creating unique musical styles, dominating the charts, and influencing global culture. The city’s rise to prominence is attributed to its talented artists, groundbreaking record labels, and pivotal moments that have shaped the genre.

From the early days of Southern rap to the modern era of trap music, Atlanta has consistently pushed boundaries, earning its title as the “rap capital” of the nation. The city’s contributions to hip-hop are a testament to its creativity, resilience, and cultural impact.

Here are some of the influential artists and tracks that helped shape Atlanta’s reputation as Hip-Hop’s capital of the South.

52 Years of Hip-Hop: Atlanta’s Impact on the Genre  was originally published on hotspotatl.com

1. Kris Kross – “Jump”

2. Outkast – “Player’s Ball”

3. Playa Poncho – “Whatz Up, Whatz Up”

4. Goodie Mob – “Cell Therapy”

5. Jermaine Dupri & Ludacris – “Welcome to Atlanta”

6. Bone Crusher – “Never Scared”

7. Archie Eversole – “We Ready”

8. Lil Scrappy – “F.I.L.A.”

9. Shawty Lo – “Dunn Dunn”

10. T.I. – “Rubberband Man”

11. Jeezy – “Spaceships on Bankhead”

12. Gucci Mane – “Lemonade”

13. K CAMP – “Money Baby”

14. Purple Ribbon All-Stars – “Kryptonite (I’m On It)”

15. Waka Flocka Flame – “No Hands”

16. Crime Mob – “Knuck If You Buck”

17. Mykko Montana – “Do It”

18. YoungBloodZ – “Damn”

19. Baby D – “ATL Hoe”

20. Young Dro – “Shoulder Lean”

21. D4L – “Laffy Taffy”

22. Rich Kidz – “I See You”

23. F.L.Y. – “Swag Surfin'”

24. Yung LA – “Ain’t I”

25. Rasheeda – “My Bubble Gum”

26. Travis Porter – “Make It Rain”

27. Roscoe Dash – “All The Way Turnt Up”

28. Migos – “Bad and Boujee”

29. Rich Homie Quan – “Type of Way”

30. Young Thug – “Stoner”

31. Future – “March Madness”

32. Lil Baby – “Freestyle”

33. Latto – “B*tch From Da Souf”

34. Gunna – “Pushing P”

35. Bankroll Ni – “I’m So ATL”

36. Bunna B & YKNiece – “Innit”

37. Playboi Carti – “Like Weezy”

38. 21 Savage – “redrum”