This page is referenced by:

• 1 media/68149.jpg 2016-03-11T16:27:02-08:00 The Explosion 8 Rap Enters the Mainstream image_header 2016-03-11T22:50:13-08:00 Since the beginning of the 21st century, rap has experienced “trends of [both] consolidation and diversification” (Kajikawa). Nevertheless, it has also amassed a huge following and become a leading form of music. Rap is no longer concentrated in the two competing coasts. The genre is prominent all over America and the world, as “numerous chart-topping [rappers], including Eminem, Ludacris, Lil Jon, T.I., Kanye West, Lil Wayne, and Drake, [hail] from outside the East Coast and West Coast communities that [once] dominated the industry” (Kajikawa). Therefore, rap music has become a global phenomenon.
  In addition, many modern rappers are signed to major record labels alongside popular artists of other genres. For instance, G-Eazy, a white rapper, and Miley Cyrus, a pop star, are both signed to RCA records. Thus, rap is an accepted and celebrated genre in the music industry. Nevertheless, a number of rappers have also created their own successful rap labels. Cash Money Records was founded by Birdman and his brother, and the label has signed Lil Wayne, Drake, and Nicki Minaj, three incredibly renowned rappers.