There’s no better example of Atlanta’s impression on mainstream pop culture than its rich past, present and definitive future shaping the world of hip-hop music. In the East Coast/West Coast hip-hop debate, ATL often gets overlooked but make no mistake — the South’s got something to say.
Over the years, WABE has showcased hip-hop artists old and new, as well as the culture, fashion and community the genre’s ever-present influence casts over the city of Atlanta.

Atlanta Hip-Hop In Depth

WABE feature stories over the years that dive into Atlanta’s hip-hop influence.

In 2019, “Closer Look” host Rose Scott joined T.I. in his gold 1950s Chevy Bel Air and drove through Atlanta’s West End. During their conversation, the hometown hero spoke about his beginnings as an artists and his plans to serve the community he grew up in.

(Robby Klein/Contour by Getty Images)

(Chris Rank/Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

Back in 2019, an organizer attempted to resurrect and rebrand the notorious Spring Break celebration known as Freaknik. WABE digital editor Lauren Book took this as an oppertunity to do a deep dive into the lasting cultural hold Freaknik had on Atlanta and the hip-hop community as a whole.

As part of our Beyond Pride series that takes a deeper look into the issues the Georgia LGBTQ community face in 2023, WABE reporter Dormiya Vance spoke with LGBTQ rappers in Atlanta. They’re hopeful the genre will grow to accept more queer entertainers despite its historic lack of inclusion for the LGBTQ community. 

(Matthew Pearson/WABE)

Closer Look with Rose Scott

Hip-Hop at 50 series

Love & Respect with Killer Mike

Legends of Hip-Hop

Fab 5 Freddy

Big Boi

City Lights with Lois Reitzes

Speaking of Hip-Hop artist highlights

More hip-hop news


*Playlist contains explicit lyrics