Mainstream and underground rappers alike are experimenting with horror rap. Even though it may seem violent at first glimpse,
it's the musical equivalent of schlocky horror movies -- a field for metaphor, fantasy, and creativity.
Among the leaders of horror rap are the underground rappers Insane Clown Posse, who have brought much attention to the genre with their label, Psychopathic Records. Every year, they and other top names in underground rap and horror rap appear at ICP's own four-day festival, the Gathering of the Juggalos.
Many top underground rappers will appear, like Twiztid, Tech N9ne, Blaze, and Boondox. But other artists on the bill are also making a name in underground rap. Here are five essential upcoming underground rappers performing at the Gathering.
Hopsin: This L.A. underground rapper straddles the West Coast-style and horror rap boundaries. He's known for aggressive delivery and insults to mainstream rappers like Lil Wayne and Drake. Recently he's even started to climb out of underground rap by featuring on a song with B.o.B.
Kung Fu Vampire: Also hailing from California, Kung Fu Vampire acknowledges the horror rap tag, but considers himself to be his own genre dubbed gothic hip-hop. Sometimes performing with a band, he mixes underground rap with live spooky instrumentation.
Wolfpac: This Pennsylvania underground rap group was formed by former Bloodhound Gang member Daddy Long Legs. They're part horror rap, part horror punk, and are known for crazy live shows. Unusual for most underground rappers, the group also releases its own brand of adult DVDs.
Mars: Another underground rap favorite from California, Mars has been releasing music since he was 17. His style is distinct in that it mixes horror rap with more traditional gangsta rap.
Ajax: Last but not least on this list of underground rappers is Ajax, an upcoming Detroit MC who distinguishes himself from other underground rappers by calling his style "stonercore." His lyrics are less about horror rap subjects and more about partying.
These are just a few of the next big names in underground rap performing at the Gathering of the Juggalos. And many more underground rappers are being announced as the festival draws closer. For a full lineup and ticket information visit juggalogathering.com.
