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Snap Music

By Henry Adaso, About.com

What Is Snap Music?:

The slick polyrhythms of Snap incorporate finger-snapping (hence the name) and occasional whistling to create a distinct melody. The style originated from Atlanta, and has made its way across different cities in the United States.

Elements & Style:

Snap implores timed finger-snapping in place of snares. Sparse, almost empty drums serve as the backdrop for the slick musings of Snap rappers. Despite the fact that Snap was designed with clubs and dance halls in mind, the tempo is usually slow with a laid-back vibe.

Pioneers:

Although there was once a heated feud between Dem Franchise Boyz and D4L over who invented Snap, there's no doubt that the playful rap sub-genre was conceived in Atlanta. While Dem Franchise Boyz have been shaking up clubs with their laid back hit "Lean Wit It, Rock Wit IT", D4L's single "Laffy Taffy" one of the most digitally downloaded songs in the history of iTunes.
ATL-based producer Mr. Collipark has also been credited with the invention of Snap.

Notable Snap Artists:

  • Dem Franchise Boyz
  • Ying-Yang Twins
  • Ben Hill
  • D4L
  • Mr. Collipark

Popular Snap Songs:

  • "Laffy Taffy," D4L
  • "Play," David Banner
  • "Lean Wit It, Rock Wit It," Dem Franchise Boyz
  • "Wait (The Whisper Song)," Ying Yang Twins

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