- Gangsta Rap: Originating in the late 1980s and early 1990s, gangsta rap is characterized by lyrics about urban violence, poverty, drug dealing, and gang culture. It often portrays the struggles of marginalized communities and has notable artists like N.W.A, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Tupac Shakur.
- Conscious Rap: Also known as "socially conscious" or "reality" rap, this subgenre focuses on social and political issues, promoting awareness about problems such as inequality, racism, poverty, and police brutality. Common artists include Public Enemy, KRS-One, Mos Def, and Talib Kweli.
- East Coast Rap: This style developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s in New York City and its surrounding areas. East Coast rap is known for its boom-bap production, complex wordplay, and influence of jazz and funk. Notable artists include the Notorious B.I.G, Jay-Z, Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, and A Tribe Called Quest.
- West Coast Rap: Originating in the late 1980s in California, particularly Los Angeles, West Coast rap often features slower tempos, melodic vocals, and a distinct "laid-back" style. It has significant artists such as Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, Tupac Shakur, and Warren G.
- Dirty South Rap: This style emerged in the 1990s in the Southern United States, specifically in cities like Atlanta, Houston, Memphis, and New Orleans. Dirty South rap is characterized by bass-heavy production, rhythmic flows, and a strong focus on club music. Notable artists include Lil Wayne, T.I., Gucci Mane, OutKast, and Ludacris.
- Midwest Rap: As the name suggests, this subgenre originated in the Midwestern region of the United States. Midwest rap emerged in the late 1990s and is known for its soulful samples, storytelling, and distinct nasal intonation. Notable artists include Eminem, Common, Twista, Tech N9ne, and Bone Thugs-n-Harmony.
- Horrorcore Rap: This subgenre merges rap music with horror themes and lyrics about violence, gore, and macabre imagery. It emerged in the early 1990s with groups like Gravediggaz, Geto Boys, and Three 6 Mafia.
These are just a few of the many types of rap music, and new styles and variations continue to develop over time.