Regarding the evolution of hip-hop, the South has undeniably played a significant role in shaping the genre’s landscape. So So Def Records was founded by superproducer and recent “BET Hip Hop Awards” 2023 performer Jermaine Dupri. The powerhouse label has been a nurturing ground for talents that have played a pivotal role in the South’s rise to prominence in the hip-hop arena.
During the celebration marking 50 years of hip-hop, hosted by Fat Joe, So So Def Records commemorated its 30th anniversary with a mesmerizing tribute performance. Dupri, the maestro himself, graced the stage alongside a constellation of So So Def all-stars, including Da Brat, Bow Wow, Bone Crusher, Dem Franchize Boyz, and many more.
In honor of the incredible evening and the label’s contributions, we’re diving into So So Def’s crates and looking at five rap anthems that helped the South rise in hip-hop and shaped the genre’s evolution.
