By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Houston has had an impact on the hip hop scene since the mid-1980s. The Geto Boyz, led by Scarface, signed to Rap-A-Lot Records, introduced the world to the Houston hip hop scene. After Scarface’s solo run, Houston’s hip hop scene began to fade. A few years later, Port Authur transplants, Pimp C and Bun B returned Houston to relevance as UGK, remaining popular.
Lil’Flip would enjoy the most commercial success, as a solo artist. During the summer of 2002, Lil’ Flip released his hit single, “The Way We Ball,” and would be featured on David Banner’s 2003 breakout summer hit, “Like a Pimp.” In 2004, Lil’ Flip enjoyed a highly-successful year, releasing two hit singles, “Game Over” and “Sunshine.”
A feud with T.I. would end Lil’ Flip’s run, by 2005, but Houston still managed to have a power year, as four of their biggest underground players made it to the mainstream. Mike Jones’ breakout single, released in early 2005, “Still Tippin,'” featured Slim Thug and Paul Wall. All three rappers enjoyed successful debut album releases during the summer of 2005, when Chamillionaire released his debut single.
Chamillionaire had much success in 2006, but had disappeared by 2007. The Houston hip hop scene has struggled since then, as the only remaining relevant artists were Scarface and UGK. However, Slim Thug and Paul Wall have enjoyed much mixtape success over the past few years. Both rappers are often all over the internet with their new music. Meanwhile, Mike Jones and Chamillionaire have disappeared from the game.
Much like 2005, there are many artists emerging on the Houston hip hop scene. Marcus Manchild was recently featured on AllHipHop.com and has been hailed by many sites as the future of Houston hip hop. Another Houston rapper making moves is Kirko Bangz, who was recently featured on Vlad TV, speaking on bringing the hip hop scene in Houston back to prominence.
Watch the entire interview below:
