Scam rap

Scam rap
Other names	Detroit rap Michigan rap
Stylistic origins	Hip hop trap
Cultural origins	2010s, Detroit, Michigan, U.S.

Scam rap is a sub-genre of hip hop that emerged in Detroit, Michigan around the mid-2010s, characterized by lyrics that focus on various forms of fraudulent activities, particularly those conducted in the digital realm, such as online scams, hacking, the dark web and cybercrime. Artists like Teejayx6 are largely credited with popularizing the sub-genre.

Characteristics

Scam rap is notable for its explicit descriptions of various fraudulent activities, offering listeners a glimpse into the world of cybercrime, financial manipulation, and identity theft. Artists often share step-by-step instructions, anecdotes, and personal experiences related to their scams. The lyrics often reflect a mix of audacity and humor, showcasing the artists' resourcefulness and creativity in executing their schemes.

Musically, scam rap typically incorporates lazy, triplet flows and rambling bars, often rapped "behind the beat." The beats themselves may be lo-fi and minimalistic, allowing the focus to remain on the storytelling aspect of the genre. Scam rap also frequently features references to modern technology, cryptocurrency, online platforms, and the dark web, reflecting the evolving landscape of scams in the digital age.

History and origins

The origins of scam rap can be traced back to the Detroit rap scene, particularly around the year 2017. A notable milestone in the genre's emergence is the release of the song "Juggin Ain't Dead" by Bossman Rich in March 2017. This song is credited with pioneering the scam rap movement by addressing fraudulent activities in a musical format.

Detroit rapper Teejayx6 is widely regarded as one of the leading figures in scam rap. He gained prominence with his mixtape "Fraudulent Activity," which featured tracks that delved into the specifics of various scams and offered listeners insights into the mechanics of fraud. Teejayx6's music often includes hyper-specific lyrics and step-by-step instructions for carrying out scams.

The scam rap genre has since expanded to include other artists such as Guapdad 4000, Selfmade Kash, and City Girls. These artists have released tracks that explore different aspects of scamming, showcasing its various facets and creative approaches.

Despite its popularity, scam rap has faced controversies due to its subject matter. Some artists within the genre, including Selfmade Kash and City Girls member JT, have faced legal issues related to their involvement in fraudulent activities.