First Time Since 1990: No Rap in Hot 100’s Top 40

Bassyonni

ago 6 hours

A significant shift has occurred in the music landscape, as the Billboard Hot 100’s top 40 recently experienced its first week without any rap songs since February 2, 1990. On the chart dated October 25, 2025, Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s hit “Luther” fell out of the top 40, marking a historic moment for hip-hop.

No Rap in Hot 100’s Top 40

Last week, the highest-ranking rap song was YoungBoy Never Broke Again’s “Shot Callin,” coming in at No. 44. It was followed by Cardi B’s “Safe,” featuring Kehlani, at No. 48, and BigXthaPlug’s “Hell at Night,” featuring Ella Langley, at No. 49. This significant change indicates a decline in rap’s prominence within the chart.

Historic Context

The last time the Hot 100’s top 40 featured no rap songs was in 1990. At that time, Biz Markie’s “Just a Friend” was the top-ranking rap track, just reaching No. 41. Following that, a streak began, lasting 35 years, eight months, and three weeks, with rap songs continually occupying spots in the top 40.

Changes Impacting the Chart

Recent changes to Billboard’s chart rules contributed to this unprecedented gap. Artists’ songs are now classified as recurrent and removed if they fall below certain thresholds after sustained chart time. In particular, “Luther” dropped to No. 38 after 46 weeks, allowing it to be eliminated from the top 40.

“Luther” was ranked No. 9 in the top 10 as of August 2.
After 26 weeks on the chart, songs falling below No. 25 were removed.
New entries from Taylor Swift’s album have further restricted space for rap tracks.

Market Share Decline

Hip-hop’s commercial presence is dwindling. In 2020, rap’s market share was nearly 30%, but it has since decreased to just over 25% in 2023, with a current share of 24% in 2025. Five years ago, 16 rap songs were in the top 40; in 2023, that number was reduced to eight.

Current Trends in Rap Releases

The rap genre is currently navigating a transitional phase. Notably, Drake has yet to release his anticipated “Iceman” album, while Kendrick Lamar has stepped back after dominating the charts. However, recent releases from Cardi B and BigXthaPlug suggest there is still activity in the genre.

The extended absence of rap songs in the Hot 100’s top 40 reiterates a pivotal moment for the genre, as it seeks to reclaim a stronger presence on the charts. With no rap songs in the top 40 this week, the drought continues, although “Shot Callin” inching closer to the top might signal a potential revival.