ATLANTA

Atlanta transformed from a regional hub into the undisputed capital of Southern hip-hop, reshaping the sound of rap for generations. The early 1990s saw OutKast and Goodie Mob emerge from the Dungeon Family, proving the South had something to say with their blend of funk, soul, and sharp lyricism. By the 2000s, Atlanta’s influence exploded worldwide, led by artists like Ludacris, T.I., and Young Jeezy, each bringing their own perspective to the city’s diverse soundscape.

The city became a powerhouse of innovation, pioneering styles that shifted hip-hop’s center of gravity. Crunk, spearheaded by Lil Jon, turned clubs into riotous dance floors; trap, pioneered by T.I., Gucci Mane, and Jeezy, created one of the most dominant sounds in modern music; and later, artists like Future, Young Thug, and Migos redefined melody, flow, and cadence in ways that reverberated globally. Atlanta also gave rise to influential producers like Organized Noize, Jermaine Dupri, Zaytoven, and Metro Boomin, who turned the city into a production capital.

Today, Atlanta continues to set the pace for hip-hop’s evolution. From the cultural impact of 21 Savage and Lil Baby to the experimental artistry of Playboi Carti and the pop-rap crossover of Childish Gambino, the city’s talent is as diverse as ever. This exhibit captures Atlanta’s ongoing legacy as a laboratory of sound - a place where creativity, hustle, and cultural pride collide to shape the future of hip-hop.