What happens when twangy guitars meet heavy beats? When cowboy boots step into the recording studio alongside sneakers?

A musical revolution is brewing, and it’s turning heads across America. The blend of Southern storytelling with hip-hop swagger creates something listeners never knew they needed.

These artists aren’t just mixing genres; they’re rewriting the rulebook entirely. From dirt roads to Billboard charts, country rap artists are proving that music has no boundaries.

Their lyrics paint pictures of rural life while riding infectious rhythms that make everyone move. But here’s the real question: what makes this fusion so addictive that fans can’t stop hitting replay?

What Is Country Rap Music?

Country rap music represents a bold fusion where rural narratives meet urban beats. This genre combines the storytelling tradition of country with hip-hop’s rhythmic delivery and production style.

Artists weave tales about trucks, farm life, and small-town values while rapping over bass-heavy instrumentals. The sound typically features banjos, acoustic guitars, or fiddles layered with 808 drums and trap-style beats.

What sets country rap artists apart is their authentic connection to both worlds; they’re not faking either lifestyle. The lyrics celebrate Southern pride, hard work, and living life on one’s own terms.

This musical movement gained serious traction in the 2010s, proving that genres can coexist beautifully when creativity leads the way.

What Makes Country Rap Artists Stand Out?

Country rap artists bring a unique flavor that traditional musicians from either genre can’t replicate alone. Their ability to bridge two distinct worlds creates a sound that resonates with diverse audiences.

• Dual Identity: These artists genuinely live both lifestyles, creating credible music that honors country roots while embracing hip-hop culture.
• Relatable Storytelling: Their lyrics capture real experiences from muddy backroads to weekend bonfires, making listeners feel understood and represented.
• Visual Style: The combination of cowboy hats with gold chains creates memorable imagery that’s instantly recognizable and refreshingly different.
• Cross-Genre Appeal: They attract fans from country, hip-hop, and rock backgrounds, building communities that celebrate musical diversity.
• True to Themselves: Country rap artists refuse to conform to industry expectations, staying loyal to their roots while pushing creative boundaries.

Top Country Rap Artists Ranked

The country rap scene keeps growing with fresh talent that’s impossible to ignore. These performers are building massive followings while staying true to their roots. From veteran pioneers to rising stars, each brings something special to the genre.

1. Jelly Roll

Born Jason DeFord in Nashville, Jelly Roll blends country rap with rock influences and emotional vulnerability. His raspy voice delivers powerful stories about addiction, redemption, and street life over Southern beats.

The artist has earned multiple platinum certifications, Grammy nominations, and topped both country and rock charts. His authentic journey from struggles to stardom resonates deeply with fans seeking real, unfiltered music.

2. Yelawolf

Alabama-born Michael Wayne Atha brings Southern rock elements into his hip-hop foundation, creating a gritty, guitar-driven sound. His rapid-fire delivery and storytelling paint vivid pictures of trailer park life and backwoods culture.

Yelawolf has released multiple successful albums, collaborated with Eminem, and toured worldwide. His influence on country rap artists remains undeniable, bridging hardcore hip-hop with country sensibilities effortlessly.

3. BigXthaPlug

This Texas native emerged from Dallas with a deep voice and street-smart lyrics that blend Southern hip-hop with country themes.

His production favors heavy bass and minimalist beats while discussing hustle, loyalty, and Texas pride. BigXthaPlug recently signed major label deals and gained millions of streams. His rapid rise proves that country rap artists don’t need Nashville’s approval to succeed.

4. Ryan Upchurch

Tennessee’s Ryan Upchurch started as a YouTube comedian before becoming a full-fledged musician blending country, rap, and rock. His independent approach and DIY mentality built a fiercely loyal fanbase without major label support.

Upchurch has released over 20 albums, consistently charting independently and selling out venues nationwide. His multi-genre versatility and business savvy make him a blueprint for independent success.

5. Lil Nas X

Georgia’s Lil Nas X broke global records with “Old Town Road,” bringing country rap into unprecedented mainstream consciousness.

His viral hit sparked genre debates, topped charts worldwide, and earned diamond certification faster than any song in history. Though his subsequent work shifted directions, his impact on legitimizing country rap artists in mainstream spaces remains undeniable and historically significant.

6. Shaboozey

Virginia-raised Shaboozey mixes country melodies with hip-hop production, creating catchy hooks that stick in listeners’ heads for days. His smooth vocal delivery switches between singing and rapping seamlessly while discussing relationships, ambition, and Southern living.

Recent collaborations with major artists and viral streaming success have positioned him as one of the genre’s most promising newcomers heading into mainstream recognition.

7. Jessie Murph

This Alabama teenager brings raw emotion and powerful vocals to country rap, addressing heartbreak, mental health, and teenage struggles. Her unique female perspective fills a gap in the male-dominated genre while maintaining genuine Southern roots.

Jessie has accumulated hundreds of millions of streams, signed with major labels, and built a massive TikTok following. Her vulnerability connects with younger audiences seeking relatable content.

8. Colt Ford

Georgia’s Colt Ford is a pioneer who helped establish country rap as a legitimate genre in the mid-2000s. His sound leans heavily toward country with rap verses, focusing on hunting, fishing, trucks, and rural lifestyle.

Ford has released numerous albums, charted on Billboard Country, and collaborated with mainstream country stars. His longevity proves country rap artists can sustain careers beyond temporary trends.

9. Struggle Jennings

Step- grandson of country legend Waylon Jennings, Struggle brings outlaw country DNA into modern hip-hop production and delivery. His lyrics explore family legacy, personal demons, redemption, and staying true to oneself despite industry pressures.

Multiple successful albums, sold-out tours, and collaborations with various genres showcase his versatility. His family name carries weight, but his talent stands alone in today’s scene.

10. Adam Calhoun

This Illinois native infuses patriotic themes with hard-hitting beats and unapologetic conservative viewpoints. His aggressive delivery and controversial lyrics spark conversations while building a dedicated following that values his straightforward approach.

Calhoun has topped independent charts, sold merchandise empires, and collaborated frequently with other country rap artists. His success proves niche audiences can sustain thriving careers.

11. The Lacs

This Georgia duo pioneered the country rap movement in the late 2000s with party anthems celebrating Southern culture. Their sound combines catchy hooks, banjo riffs, and bass-heavy beats, perfect for tailgates and bonfires.

The Lacs have released numerous albums, built a loyal “Dirt Rock” fanbase, and toured extensively across America. Their consistency and energy keep crowds coming back, show after show.

12. Nu Breed

This collaborative group features rotating country rap artists creating high-energy tracks about rural living and Southern pride. Their compilation albums showcase emerging talent while maintaining consistent quality and sound across different voices.

Nu Breed has helped launch several careers, produced multiple successful projects, and created a platform for underground artists. Their community-building approach strengthens the entire genre’s foundation.

13. Kidd G

Georgia teenager Kidd G blends singing, rapping, and playing guitar while discussing teenage romance, small-town life, and youthful dreams. His TikTok fame translated into legitimate musical success with millions of streams and major label attention.

Multiple viral hits, sold-out shows, and collaborations with established artists prove his staying power. His youth brings fresh energy that attracts Generation Z listeners to the genre.

14. Jesse Howard

This Kentucky artist delivers gritty tales of Appalachian life with banjo-driven beats and authentic mountain culture references. His production stays rooted in traditional country instruments while incorporating modern hip-hop elements easily.

Howard has built a grassroots following through relentless touring and consistent releases. His dedication to representing Eastern Kentucky’s culture gives voice to often-overlooked rural communities nationwide.

15. Demun Jones

Georgia’s Demun Jones creates feel-good country rap celebrating outdoor activities, country girls, and backwoods celebrations. His laid-back delivery and melodic hooks make songs perfect for summer playlists and weekend parties.

Jones has released numerous albums independently, maintained steady touring schedules, and collaborated with genre veterans. His positive energy and consistent output keep fans engaged and coming back for more upbeat content.

16. Jawga Boyz

This Georgia group helped define early country rap with Southern slang, heavy bass, and unapologetic rural pride. Their party-focused lyrics celebrate mudboggin’, bonfire nights, and country living without pretension or apology.

Multiple albums, a dedicated fanbase called “Jawga Nation,” and years of touring prove their lasting impact. Their influence on younger country rap artists remains evident in today’s sound and culture.

17. Bubba Sparxxx

Georgia’s Bubba Sparxxx brought country rap to mainstream attention in the early 2000s with major label backing. His Southern drawl over Timbaland production created crossover hits that introduced millions to the genre’s possibilities.

Multiple platinum singles, Grammy nominations, and collaborations with hip-hop legends established his credibility. Though less active recently, his pioneering work laid the groundwork for today’s artists.

18. Moonshine Bandits

This California duo proves country rap artists aren’t limited to the South, bringing West Coast hip-hop vibes to rural themes. Their sound mixes gangster rap influences with country instrumentation, creating a unique regional flavor.

Multiple successful albums, extensive touring, and a loyal fanbase demonstrate their appeal. Their California perspective adds diversity to a predominantly Southern-dominated genre landscape.

19. Lil Wyte

Memphis rapper Lil Wyte incorporates Southern rock and country elements into his crunk-influenced hip-hop style. His high-energy delivery and party anthems made him a singer who expanded into country crossover territory.

Successful albums, regional hit singles, and collaborations with country rap pioneers showcase his adaptability. His Memphis roots bring a distinct flavor that differs from typical country rap approaches.

20. Charlie Farley

Kentucky native Charlie Farley delivers smooth vocals, switching between singing and rapping over country-tinged production. His lyrics focus on small-town relationships, country lifestyle, and staying true to rural roots despite outside pressures.

Consistent album releases, collaborative projects, and steady touring have built a reliable fanbase. His melodic approach and relatable content make him accessible to both country and hip-hop audiences equally.

21. Savannah Dexter

Michigan’s Savannah Dexter brings fierce female energy to country rap with bold lyrics about empowerment, relationships, and personal struggles. Her powerful delivery and confident presence challenge the genre’s male dominance while maintaining Southern-inspired production.

Rising streaming numbers, growing social media presence, and increasingly larger shows demonstrate her trajectory. Her perspective adds necessary diversity to a scene hungry for varied voices and experiences.

22. Brabo Gator

Florida’s Brabo Gator brings swamp country vibes with heavy bass and a unique regional flavor that differs from typical Southern sounds. His aggressive delivery and Everglades-inspired imagery create a distinct niche within the genre.

Growing streaming numbers and festival appearances demonstrate his rising popularity. His Florida perspective proves country rap artists can represent diverse Southern regions beyond Tennessee and Georgia successfully.

23. Seth Anthony

This Mississippi artist combines soulful singing with rap verses over country-influenced production that highlights Delta culture. His smooth transitions between melodic hooks and rhythmic verses showcase impressive vocal range and adaptability.

Recent releases have gained traction on streaming platforms and regional radio stations. Seth’s ability to blend genres seamlessly makes him stand out among emerging country rap artists.

24. Burden

Kentucky’s Burden delivers dark, introspective lyrics over haunting production that blends Appalachian sounds with modern hip-hop. His raw honesty about mental health, addiction, and rural poverty connects with listeners facing similar struggles.

Independent releases and underground respect have built a devoted following. His willingness to address difficult topics adds emotional depth that many country rap artists avoid discussing openly.

25. Katie Noel

Georgia’s Katie Noel brings fierce female energy with rapid-fire delivery and unapologetic country pride. Her viral hit “Diesel Gang” sparked widespread attention and launched her career into mainstream consideration.

Growing tour schedules, merchandise sales, and social media presence demonstrate her business savvy. Katie proves female country rap artists can compete successfully in the male-dominated landscape through talent and determination.

26. Post Malone

Texas-raised Post Malone achieved massive mainstream success by blending rock, hip-hop, country, and pop into genre-defying hits.

His melodic approach, vulnerable lyrics, and genre fluidity earned multiple diamond certifications, Grammy nominations, and billions of streams. Collaborations with country legends and crossover appeal introduced millions to country-rap fusion possibilities.

27. Overtime

This artist combines motivational themes with country rap sounds, focusing on hard work, perseverance, and chasing dreams. His energetic delivery and inspirational lyrics appeal to listeners seeking positive reinforcement through music.

Consistent releases and a growing regional fanbase show steady progression. Overtime’s focus on hustle culture resonates with working-class audiences who relate to grinding for better futures.

28. Lenny Cooper

North Carolina’s Lenny Cooper creates high-energy party tracks celebrating trucks, country girls, and Southern lifestyle. His catchy hooks and bass-heavy production make songs perfect for tailgates and outdoor gatherings.

Multiple albums, nationwide tours, and a loyal fanbase called “Mud Diggers” prove his staying power. Cooper’s consistency and fan engagement demonstrate how country rap artists build sustainable careers through community connection.

29. Justin Champagne

Louisiana’s Justin Champagne brings Cajun influences into country rap with a unique regional flavor and swamp culture references. His laid-back delivery and Southern hospitality shine through party-focused lyrics and feel-good production.

Growing regional popularity and festival bookings demonstrate his appeal. Champagne’s Louisiana perspective adds cultural diversity that expands the genre beyond typical geographic representations successfully.

30. Austin Tolliver

This Kentucky artist delivers heartfelt lyrics about small-town struggles, family values, and staying grounded despite success. His genuine approach and relatable content connect with rural audiences seeking real representation.

Independent releases and grassroots touring have built a dedicated following. Tolliver’s commitment to representing everyday working people makes him beloved among fans, valuing sincerity over flash.

31. Chris Hosier

Georgia’s Chris Hosier combines Southern rock influences with hip-hop delivery, creating a guitar-driven sound that bridges multiple genres. His raspy vocals and blue-collar lyrics resonate with fans appreciating traditional country themes over modern production.

Steady independent releases and regional touring demonstrate his dedication. Hosier proves country rap artists can honor classic sounds while innovating within established frameworks.

32. Crucifix

This artist brings spiritual themes and faith-based messages into country rap without sacrificing edge or street credibility. His honest lyrics about redemption, struggle, and finding purpose appeal to listeners seeking meaningful content.

Growing underground respect and collaborative projects with genre veterans showcase his talent. Crucifix demonstrates that country rap artists can address spirituality while maintaining hip-hop’s core elements.

33. Cypress Spring

This group blends multiple voices and styles into cohesive country rap anthems celebrating Southern brotherhood and unity. Their collaborative approach creates dynamic songs with varied perspectives and complementary flows.

Regional success and live performances showcase their chemistry and stage presence. Cypress Spring proves country rap artists can thrive through teamwork and shared vision rather than solo stardom alone.

These performers represent the genre’s depth and diversity, proving that country rap artists come from various backgrounds and regions.

Country Rap Artists Are Changing the Music Industry

The music business is experiencing a major shift thanks to genre-blending innovators. Country rap artists are challenging traditional industry gatekeepers and rewriting rules about what belongs on which charts.

• Breaking Down Genre Walls: Streaming platforms now struggle to categorize these songs, forcing Billboard and radio stations to reconsider rigid formatting that separated country and hip-hop for decades.
• Independent Success Models: Many bypass major labels entirely, building profitable careers through social media and self-releasing music while maintaining creative control and higher profits.
• Expanding Audience Demographics: They attract listeners who never considered themselves country or rap fans, creating new markets and proving musical preferences aren’t fixed.
• Festival Lineup Diversity: Major events now book country rap artists alongside traditional acts, transforming lineups and introducing different fanbases to each other.
• Streaming Algorithm Impact: Their cross-genre appeal confuses recommendation systems beneficially, exposing diverse audiences to music they wouldn’t typically discover.

The Bottom Line

The fusion of rural storytelling with hip-hop rhythms has created something the music world can’t ignore anymore. Country rap artists have proven that labels don’t define talent; passion, creativity, and connection with fans do.

From pioneers who paved the way to emerging stars making waves today, this genre keeps growing stronger. These musicians aren’t waiting for industry permission; they’re building empires independently while staying true to their roots.

Their success shows that when artists refuse to be boxed in, magic happens. Ready to support this movement? Stream these talented performers, attend their shows, and share their music with friends who appreciate real creativity.

The genre’s future depends on fans who celebrate boundary-breaking art. Don’t just listen, become part of the community that’s reshaping music history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Is the Most Popular Country Rapper?

Jelly Roll is widely considered the most popular country rapper today. He has massive streaming numbers, sold-out tours, and strong crossover success on both country and hip-hop charts.

What Is Country Rap Called?

Country rap is often called hick-hop. It blends country storytelling, Southern culture, and hip-hop beats and lyrics.

Who Is the Country Rap King?

There is no official title, but many fans call Yelawolf the country rap king. He helped define the genre and influenced many artists who came after him.

Who Made Country Rap Popular?

Colt Ford played a major role in making country rap popular. His early music brought the genre to mainstream country audiences and helped build its foundation.