Hip-hop in the Carolinas boasts a rich, diverse history, deeply rooted in North Carolina’s HBCU culture (Lords of the Underground, Little Brother) and evolving through distinct eras, marked by innovative producers and artists like Rapsody, J. Cole, and DaBaby, while South Carolina’s scene, led by pioneers like The Sequence, has developed its own infrastructure, bridging local narratives with broader Southern sounds. Both states showcase unique regional flavors, blending R&B, jazz, and blues influences with contemporary trap and lyrical styles, moving from regional focus to global recognition.
North Carolina: HBCU Roots & Lyrical Innovation
Modern Icons: The new generation includes global superstars like J. Cole, Rapsody, and DaBaby, showcasing diverse sounds from the Raleigh-Durham area (Durham’s Little Brother, Raleigh’s Kooley High) to Charlotte.
HBCU Influence: Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) like Shaw, St. Augustine’s, and North Carolina Central University were crucial incubators, fostering groups such as Lords of the Underground and Little Brother.
Golden Era & Beyond: The state’s scene flourished during hip-hop’s “golden era,” with artists drawing from North Carolina’s deep musical heritage (blues, jazz, soul).
South Carolina: From Early Pioneers to Modern Infrastructure
Charleston’s Scene: The Lowcountry’s hip-hop history includes distinct eras, with community forums like “Southern Discomfort” addressing local issues and fostering growth.
Early Breakthroughs: Columbia’s The Sequence (late ’70s/early ’80s) became the first female hip-hop trio signed to Sugar Hill Records, achieving national recognition with “Funk You Up”.
Evolving Sound: While early artists focused on escaping the region, the scene has matured, with contemporary artists building robust local labels and brands.
Rise to National Prominence (Early 2000s)
The turn of the century marked the “moment in time” when Carolina hip-hop transitioned from underground to mainstream.
The Sequence: Earlier in 1979, the female trio The Sequence, hailing from Columbia, South Carolina, became the first female rap group signed to Sugar Hill Records, paving the way for future artists.
Petey Pablo: In 2001, Greenville native Petey Pablo released “Raise Up,” an anthem that celebrated North Carolina and officially put the state on the national hip-hop map.
Little Brother: This trio from Durham (Phonte, Big Pooh, and producer 9th Wonder) gained critical acclaim with their 2003 debut, The Listening. They were central to a movement of “soulful” and “intellectual” hip-hop that challenged the “Dirty South” stereotypes of the time.