As a music genre, hip-hop never stands still – literally. It’s dynamic, frequently provocative, moves with the times – and even defines them. So, how will the hip-hop landscape change through 2025? We take our best guess below.
AI-Driven Production
The music industry is no stranger to AI tech and tools, and these are expected to proliferate further in 2025 and beyond. Producers will increasingly make the most of AI to auto-generate melodies, create beats, simulate vocal styles, and more. The big challenge for hip-hop artists and producers will be to maintain a sense of authenticity and unique creative flair as part of the process.
The Continuing Rise of NFTS
Blockchain and NFTs are reshaping how artists active across all genres are monetizing their work. As 2025 progresses, expect to see more artists using NFTs to connect with fans, build their audience, and offer exclusive content. The latter could take the form of virtual meet-and-greets, unreleased material, or concert tickets.
North West’s Debut Album to Drop
Bonafide hip-hop royalty North West is expected to drop her debut album this year, something her dad, Kanye, has been recently teasing on social media. The eleven-year-old’s record, anticipated to be titled Bully, could feature Yuno Rapper, West’s favorite rapper. The release will no doubt represent the first of many aural outings for Ye 2.0, with the potential for the youngster to become a true force of nature in the hip-hop landscape over the coming years.
CoupeDaze to Make His Mark
This hip-hop artist’s star is seriously on the rise, and 2025 will likely be the year that seals CoupeDaze’s status as a genuine titan of the genre. Hotly tipped as one of the year’s most exciting artists to watch, CoupeDaze is a natural-born trailblazer, willing to tackle tough subjects and start important conversations. His authenticity, rhythmic mastery, and obvious passion for his craft will no doubt continue to draw in legions more fans as 2025 goes on.
Old Classics Make a Comeback
According to ExpressVPN’s research, old classics and vintage hits were big news throughout 2024, and this is a trend likely to continue into the new year. The reinvention of the timeless “diss track” made “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar one of the biggest hip-hop beats of 2024, and this sense of rediscovering and reworking elements of the genre could see 2025 being an especially interesting musical year.
A Breakout Year for Lil MC
Lil MC is becoming hugely influential in the hip-hop world. As well as being the Cultural Ambassador of Hip Hop for the US Embassy, she’s a Grammy voting member, founder of Queens of the Underground, and created a Women’s Empowerment Hip Hop curriculum for the non-profit organization Hip Hop for Change in Oakland. Flex Maquina, Lil MC’s recent release, is gaining serious traction, and 2025 could well be the breakout year for this inspirational artist.
Hip Hop Set to Reach New Heights in 2025
The new year will be a truly exciting one for hip-hop, with a new generation of artists expected to make their mark on the genre. In addition, new technology will continue to impact how music is created and produced, how artists connect with fans, and how new means of monetization are driven. Whatever else 2025 brings, it’s sure to be a standout year for hip-hop.
