Rap’s hierarchy has always worked like creative feudalism. Those “kings” who claim the throne have the uncanny ability to synthesize the time’s culture while at the same time appealing to the mainstream, while those in serfdom must fight for their spot on the billboard. However, is this hierarchy in one of music’s fastest growing genres damaging its ability to grow and prosper? Is the dominance of big hitters like Kendrick Lamar and Drake drowning out the underground talent that makes hip hop so unique?

There is not one clear-cut answer. An empty throne in hip hop resulted in both a devastation in the early 2000’s and a rejuvenation from 2014-2017. The 2000’s prior to the reign of Lil Wayne was a step backwards for rap. The lyricism that died with Biggie and Tupac was replaced with “crunk rap” by Lil Jon and party records by 50 Cent. As a result, the genre went from a representation of urban culture and lyricism to party music.

It wasn’t until Lil Wayne and Young Money took over in the late 2000’s that rap got back on its feet. As time went on, and Drake, Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole fought for the throne, the genre became the cultural phenomenon it used to be. Kendrick put Compton back on the map in 2012 with “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” and Drake released his groundbreaking album, “Nothing Was the Same” in 2013, solidifying their impact and legacy in the game.

However, as the decade progressed, these kings became lethargic and unresponsive. Kendrick hadn’t released a solo studio album in two years, and Drake hadn’t released a good solo studio album since 2013. In this age of anarchy, underground and alternative rappers took advantage of the empty throne. Artists like Young Thug, Lil Yachty, and even XXXTentacion climbed the charts as the king’s albums turned into classical antiquities.

Though both Kendrick and Drake have returned to the scene, with two amazing albums released this year, perhaps their recent absence was a good thing. Say what you want about these new aged rappers, but their rise in popularity is only evidence that there was an audience for their unique sound. And if they had released their mixtapes and scrappy SoundCloud singles when Kendrick and Drake were dominating the charts, would they have become what they are today? Only time can tell.