Kenny Beats + Rick Rubin, Part ‪2‬ | Broken Record

Genre Evolution

The evolution of drill music is a fascinating journey that highlights the dynamic nature of hip-hop. Justin Richmond and Rick Rubin discuss how drill music originated in Chicago with artists like Chief Keef and Young Chop, and then traveled across the Atlantic to the UK, where it was reimagined and brought back to the US 1. This transatlantic exchange has resulted in a unique sound that now influences American artists, with Kenny Beats noting, "I'm doing beats inspired by UK producers that were inspired by American producers" 2.

   

Prominent Figures

Prominent figures in the drill scene have played pivotal roles in its growth and transformation. Kenny Beats highlights the influence of UK artists like Headie One, who have gained recognition in the US through collaborations with artists such as Drake 3. Meanwhile, American artists continue to draw inspiration from the UK scene, with Richmond noting that the UK pays homage to American drill pioneers like Chief Keef, creating a reciprocal relationship that enriches the genre 2.

   

Cultural Exchanges

Cultural exchanges between the US and UK have significantly transformed the drill sound and hip-hop scene. Richmond and Rick Rubin discuss how UK artists have taken the drill concept and made it their own, only for it to return to the US with a fresh perspective 4. This back-and-forth exchange is reminiscent of the British Invasion in music history, where American sounds were reinterpreted and returned with new energy 1. Rubin reflects, "When it goes back and forth, there's so much room for growth. Like, you get to hear it through new ears when it comes back."