Jerk, alternatively known as "jerknb", is a form of Hip Hop that emerged in the early 2020s. Taking loose musical and visual inspiration from the late 2000s Jerk Rap fad, the genre is characterized by sparse, snare-heavy drum patterns, which take major elements from other prominent 2010s and 2020s underground hip hop genres like Plugg. Though it rhythmically mimics jerk rap and Hyphy, the newer style has seen producers experimenting and altering its percussive structure
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Jerk, alternatively known as "jerknb", is a form of Hip Hop that emerged in the early 2020s. Taking loose musical and visual inspiration from the late 2000s Jerk Rap fad, the genre is characterized by sparse, snare-heavy drum patterns, which take major elements from other prominent 2010s and 2020s underground hip hop genres like Plugg. Though it rhythmically mimics jerk rap and Hyphy, the newer style has seen producers experimenting and altering its percussive structure, with many beats featuring off-kilter and unorthodox rhythms, minimal or dense drums, and elements borrowed from Lowend, like double-time claps and rapid hi-hats. Production ranges from ethereal and rich, featuring synth pads, upbeat piano melodies, and pleasant atmospheres, to more hectic and abrasive styles, which serve as the backdrop for typically energetic and triumphant rapping. The style's visuals often call back elements of jerk culture, with intentionally rough and DIY-looking cover arts and pop culture references.
Jerk, which was first known as "hoodtrap", was pioneered by underground producer kashpaint, who worked with many artists in the 1c collective. It would rise in popularity with rappers such as xaviersobased, phreshboyswag, SiyahXO!, Nettspend, and Yhapojj, who expanded its reach into other associated SoundCloud scenes and collectives. Though long track lengths exist, most artists stick to short song lengths, often under two minutes and/or without a prominent hook, solidifying the DIY, spontaneous nature of the genre's artists, whose musical output often consists of streaks of SoundCloud singles. Jerk would particularly rise to popularity in 2022 and 2023, with the "jerk" term winning over related terms for the sound. The sound was also embraced by established underground rap veterans like Black Kray and Duwap Kaine, the latter of whom went on to release an entire tape of the sound in Duwap So Based.
