By Rose Miami 
HangupsMusic.com – In the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, certain platforms and eras become indelible markers of artistic innovation and cultural shifts. For a significant period in the late 2010s, SoundCloud emerged as the fertile ground for a new breed of rappers who eschewed traditional industry gatekeepers, embracing raw creativity and direct fan engagement. Now, Lil Yachty, a prominent figure from that very movement, has shared his personal "Mount Rushmore" of artists who defined the SoundCloud rap era, offering a compelling, albeit debatable, perspective on its most influential voices.
During a recent appearance on Bootleg Kev’s podcast, which premiered on February 25th, the Atlanta-born artist, known for his distinctive melodic style and genre-bending approach, delved into his curated list of titans from the streaming platform’s golden age. His selections, intended to represent the core of what he considers the "actual SoundCloud" sound, include himself, Lil Uzi Vert, XXXTentacion, Playboi Carti, and the late Lil Peep. Yachty acknowledged that his choices might spark debate, a testament to the passionate and often contentious nature of fan discourse surrounding these artists.
"In my opinion, I always said it was me, [Lil] Uzi [Vert], X [XXXTentacion] like we’re talking actual SoundCloud," Yachty explained, laying the groundwork for his highly personal interpretation of the era. He elaborated on the inclusion of Lil Tracy, stating, "He was such a huge figure. Oh, and [Playboi] Carti. I think my Rushmore is me, Uzi, Carti, X and Lil Peep." This grouping highlights artists who not only gained initial traction on the platform but also cultivated distinct aesthetics and fanbases that transcended the digital realm.
Notably absent from Yachty’s primary list was Juice WRLD, a decision that immediately raised eyebrows among fans who associate the late Chicago rapper with the same wave of SoundCloud success. Yachty, however, offered a clear rationale for this omission, emphasizing a perceived chronological distinction. "Juice really wasn’t a part of our era," he stated. "He came after us." This assertion suggests a more granular definition of the "SoundCloud Era" for Yachty, one that perhaps focuses on the initial explosion of the lo-fi, trap-infused, and emotionally charged sound that characterized the mid-to-late 2010s.
Yachty further reminisced about the raw energy and groundbreaking nature of artists like XXXTentacion, whose impact on the platform was undeniable. He also touched upon the potential of artists like Tay-K, whose legal troubles tragically curtailed what many believed would have been a meteoric rise. "I remember in that era, X was going crazy," Yachty recalled. "I think I remember Tay-K was going crazy, I think Tay-K would’ve been huge [if he didn’t have his legal situation]." This highlights the volatile and often unpredictable nature of the careers that blossomed from SoundCloud, where talent and circumstance often intersected in profound ways.
The "SoundCloud Era," broadly defined, refers to the period from roughly 2015 to 2019, during which the platform became a crucial incubator for a new generation of hip-hop artists. This era saw the rise of artists who embraced DIY ethics, often releasing music directly to their fans without the need for major label backing. The distinctive soundscapes, characterized by distorted basslines, melodic flows, and often introspective or melancholic lyrical themes, became a defining feature of this period. Beyond Yachty’s chosen few, the platform also propelled artists such as Trippie Redd, 21 Savage, Ski Mask The Slump God, and Wifisfuneral into the mainstream consciousness.
Lil Yachty’s reflections offer a valuable glimpse into the internal dynamics and artistic hierarchies that emerged from the SoundCloud phenomenon. His "Mount Rushmore" is not merely a collection of popular artists but a personal testament to the individuals he believes were most instrumental in shaping the sound, culture, and trajectory of that groundbreaking era. While fan opinions may differ, Yachty’s perspective underscores the profound and lasting impact of SoundCloud rap on the contemporary music landscape, solidifying its place as a pivotal chapter in hip-hop history. The artists he selected, each in their own way, contributed to a sonic revolution that continues to influence artists and listeners alike, proving that the legacy of SoundCloud rap extends far beyond the confines of a single streaming platform. The debate over who truly belongs on such an esteemed list is a testament to the vibrant and enduring cultural significance of this unique period in music.