The 15 Greatest Viral Hip-Hop Sensations Ever
A key aspect of the hip-hop business is the process of an artist going viral. Once you have an act that people can't stop discussing, the opportunities for touring and merchandising revenue increase, not to mention corporate sponsorships. The biggest part of viral success tends to be Internet popularity, with YouTube in particular contributing to this phenomenon. Overall, reaching this level can mean long term visibility even if your career is based on a single hit.
Looking back, hip-hop’s viral sensations have been loved, shunned, debated, and examined to no end. MF DOOM fit a niche audience who understood his witty references while Trinidad James was more suited for party animals engaged in the fast life. Chief Keef also brought his city’s harsh epidemic to America’s doorsteps and people simply couldn’t stop watching his show. Coming from all walks of life with different stories to tell, here are 15 viral hip-hop sensations.
MF DOOM
Birthed from personal tragedy, including the loss of a record deal, golden age emcee Zev Love X became MF DOOM, a key figure who dominated the past decade with a long string of mostly self-produced albums. Without access to a big budget, the Internet was the means by which DOOM marked his territory and built his name. From 2003’s Madvillain collaboration with Madlib to his most recent work with up-and-comer Bishop Nehru, the masked enigma continues to maintain his presence.
Trinidad James
Appearing almost out of thin air, Trinidad James took over the world almost instantly with “All Gold Everything.” Dedicated to the sights and sounds of his native Atlanta, this catchy song practically ruled 2012, and netted him a recording contract with Def Jam. Although he rode this wave towards the top, James has yet to replicate the magic he created there.
Chief Keef
A product of Chicago’s troubled streets, Chief Keef used his story to become the very definition of a viral success. The rowdy video for “I Don’t Like” took over YouTube on its own, and it would only go on to become more popular once remixed by Kanye West. “Love Sosa” was another example of Keef’s chemistry with his producer Young Chop, establishing him as a hit-maker whose debut, Finally Rich, came out on Interscope, realizing the dream of every starving artist.
A$AP Rocky
Harlem-bred A$AP Rocky used the Internet to his advantage, and wound up becoming a key figure in New York’s youth-based hip-hop revival. Although some would accuse him of copying Houston-based acts, such as UGK, on “Purple Swag,” his originality shined through on “Peso.” Rocky’s success includes recognition as a cultural leader and a fashion icon, which in turn made it possible for the career of his crew’s own A$AP Ferg to take flight.
Kendrick Lamar
Although Dr. Dre’s cosign helped greatly, it was Kendrick Lamar’s passionate drive, work ethic, and live performances that helped him sprint ahead where other Aftermath affiliates had previously stumbled. Word of mouth helped preliminary releases O.D. and Section.80 establish his buzz digitally, and “Swimming Pools” showed his special knack for getting on the radio with a message of substance. Living up to his promise with good kid, m.A.A.d city, fans have been left restless anticipating his forthcoming sophomore album.
Mac Miller
Derided by critics and appreciated by fans in equal measure, Mac Miller’s happy-go-lucky presence quickly gathered a cult following thanks to huge viral hits, including “Donald Trump” and “Best Day Ever.” Since his humble beginnings, he has gone on to impress his naysayers, boosting his popularity by way of aligning with TDE’s Black Hippy camp since relocating to Los Angeles. Working his hardest to make a good impression, 2013’s Watching Movies with the Sound Off and Faces show his passion for hip-hop.
J. Cole
As a college student with dreams of working with Jay Z, J. Cole’s hard work and determination led to his dream becoming reality. His breakthrough moments on the road to going viral were The Warm Up mixtape, which was hugely popular on the Internet, and his appearance with his boss on “A Star Is Born” from The Blueprint 3. Having developed the swagger of a superstar and learning the art of making a hit record, Cole’s two albums Cole World: A Sideline Story and Born Sinner more than prove he has made good on his potential as a producer and emcee.
Soulja Boy
Practically creating the concept of viral success, Soulja Boy was amongst the Internet’s earliest breakout sensations. Thanks to “Crank That,” which received over 160 million YouTube views, and other hits, including “Turn My Swag On,” he has created a public visibility that others can only envy. Recently working with Nicki Minaj and appearing as a cast member of VH1’s Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood, he may not fade from the public’s sight for some time to come.
Action Bronson
An unsuspecting hero for New York hip-hop, Action Bronson has transitioned careers from chef to emcee due to witty punchlines and an overall comedic nature. After putting himself on the map with Dr. Lecter, he would go on to further prominence doing full one-on-one projects with producers, including Alchemist, Party Supplies, and Harry Fraud. Bronson’s reputation for his live performances has quickly become renowned, and with his debut album Mr. Wonderful on the way, he should unquestionably hold onto his present spotlight.
Dipset
Once Cam’ron achieved solo stardom, he brought his friends along for the ride, and their similar antics were best described as “class clown meets rock star.” With notable names, including Jim Jones and Juelz Santana, their fearless leader made sure that the Harlem Diplomats shined online. Making a huge splash due to Internet releases, the crew would go on to have personal differences before reuniting recently thanks to A-Trak and Fool’s Gold Records.
Tanya Morgan
Developing a knack for paying homage to the golden age, Tanya Morgan has worked hard at making its way up through the underground. Refining their skill sets, group members Donwill and Von Pea have become known for their live stage shows and having fun while adding serious messages in their music. This full package is why they have earned the respect of their peers and forefathers.
Lil B
One of the more recent viral sensations, Lil B has created a true movement around his comedic philosophies and slogans. Whether it’s by way of video, memes or 100-song mixtapes, the one thing he excels at is commanding attention. Formerly of The Pack, a Bay Area group who had a smaller success with “Vans,” his modern antics keep the world guessing as to what he’ll do next.
YG
Starting from the bottom, YG’s earliest mixtapes and “Toot It and Boot It” fell relatively flat. It was LoveRance’s “Up” remix that really did wonders for his buzz, and once DJ Mustard took off the stage was set for his debut, My Krazy Life. Practically a household name now, YG is one of L.A.’s biggest stories with his voice heard all over the globe.
Dom Kennedy
Building his name with each successive album, Dom Kennedy’s profile has continued to rise as he tours internationally on the strength of free releases. Still unsigned, he has earned his position as one of L.A.’s local kings, and he is a model of the independent businessman. Fan favorites include The Yellow Album and From the Westside with Love, and folks are anxiously awaiting his follow up to last year’s Get Home Safely.
Nipsey Hussle
Nipsey Hussle lived up to his name last year by selling 1,000 copies of his Crenshaw mixtape for $100 in no time. After a number of industry trials and tribulations, his authentic street tales have earned the loyal support of followers from all over with Jay Z even chipping in to show respect to his movement. This story has shown kids from troubled neighborhoods that they can change their conditions with the right amount of effort and determination.
A key aspect of the hip-hop business is the process of an artist going viral. Once you have an act that people can’t stop discussing, the opportunities for touring and merchandising revenue increase, not to mention corporate sponsorships. The biggest part of viral success tends to be Internet popularity, with YouTube in particular contributing to this phenomenon. Overall, reaching this level can mean long term visibility even if your career is based on a single hit.
Looking back, hip-hop’s viral sensations have been loved, shunned, debated, and examined to no end. MF DOOM fit a niche audience who understood his witty references while Trinidad James was more suited for party animals engaged in the fast life. Chief Keef also brought his city’s harsh epidemic to America’s doorsteps and people simply couldn’t stop watching his show. Coming from all walks of life with different stories to tell, here are 15 viral hip-hop sensations.