No Rap Songs in Billboard Hot 100 Top 40 Since 1990
The landscape of the Billboard Hot 100 has shifted significantly. For the first time since 1990, the chart’s Top 40 does not feature any rap songs. This change comes after Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s track “Luther” exited the rankings following new chart rules.
No Rap Songs in Billboard Hot 100 Top 40
“Luther,” which dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for 13 weeks, concluded its time on the chart after 46 weeks. In its final week, it landed at Number 38 but failed to maintain a position above Number 25 after its 26th week. Due to the recurrent rule changes, this limitation affected its placement.
Other Genres in the Top 40
With rap’s absence, other genres have filled the void. Notably, Taylor Swift’s album “The Life of a Showgirl” has a strong presence, remaining in the Top 40 for three consecutive weeks. The chart also showcases hits from:
- Morgan Wallen
- Olivia Dean
- Kehlani
- Alex Warren, whose song “Ordinary” has spent 37 weeks on the chart
A significant number of songs in this bracket are slow-burn hits, such as:
- Ravyn Lenae’s “Love Me Not”
- Leon Thomas’ “Mutt”
Some tracks, including Justin Bieber’s “Daises” and Sabrina Carpenter’s “Manchild,” made impressive debuts and have lingered longer on the chart.
Emerging Rap Tracks Outside Top 40
While the Top 40 lacks rap representation, a few tracks are making their way up the chart. YoungBoy Never Broke Again’s “Shot Callin” debuted in late September and has climbed to Number 43. Competitively, it stands alone in the genre at this level.
Additional songs classified under rap, based on their eligibility for the Hot Rap Songs chart, include:
- BigXthaPlug and Ella Langley’s “Hell at Night” at Number 50
- Cardi B and Kehlani’s “Safe” at Number 57
Rappers on Alternative Charts
Interestingly, some rappers are still present on the Hot 100 while not appearing in the rap category. Tyler, the Creator’s “Sugar on the Tongue” has reached Number 41 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart over its 14-week run, currently positioned at Number 51. Meanwhile, Doja Cat’s “Jealous Type” has seen a decline to Number 57, having peaked at Number 28 in September.
The current state of the Billboard Hot 100 reflects a notable shift in the music landscape. As rap music steps back, other genres are seizing the opportunity to shine.
