Definition

A hip-hop production style characterized by hard-hitting drum beats and crisp snare cracks, popularized in the 1990s by producers like DJ Premier. It represents the foundational sound of authentic, sample-based hip-hop.

Example Usage

That producer specializes in boom bap beats that make your head nod instantly.

Origin

Onomatopoetic; 'boom' is the bass drum and 'bap' is the snare, mimicking the primary percussion sounds.

Fun Fact

Boom bap became synonymous with 'real' hip-hop culture and remains the preferred sound for lyrically-focused rappers.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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