Hip Hop has a rich history dating back to the Bronx in the 70s. Over the years, the genre has given life to many celebrities like Snoop Dog and Eminem, providing a voice to those who are often overlooked in life. Our writers recognize the passion and dedication found in this genre, as they are often musicians or find that same passion in other areas in life.
As lifelong fans of Hip Hop who have gone to countless concerts, happily purchase thousands of dollars worth of merch collectively and quickly scoop up new music when it appears on the scene, we know all about this genre, the stars that made it famous, and the ones that keep it famous.
From success to controversy, these fans are eager to share with you all of the knowledge they’ve gained about the industry and how it’s changed over the years. That is why we created Hip Hop Insider, so we can share our love, excitement, and knowledge around all things Hip Hop!
Our Mission in Hip Hop
Our goal is to bring you the most up-to-date and in-depth information on your favorite Hip Hop artists, from veterans to newbies. Our artist bios and group history guides aim to make sure you can find everything you want to know about your favorite artists, groups, and then some.
Our Hip Hop experts have insider knowledge and fun facts about every artist, and they are excited to share their personal stories and give you their opinion on your favorites. You won’t be reading the same basic bios you can find anywhere, but bios filled with new facts and fun insights. Be prepared for a strong opinion or two. We strive to create original and engaging content!
When it comes to showing up for your next concert, we want you to be well-outfitted, showing off only the best merch. From t-shirts, sneakers, hoodies, and so much more, we’ll help you find it!
How We Bring You Content
Our team of experts is the first on the stage in our creation process. These writers have a vast knowledge of all things rap. They have spent years of their life listening to various Hip Hop artists, connecting with their favorite stories and styles, and deep diving into their lives.
Many have chosen to produce or work in the music industry in some capacity, while others remain loyal fans with a playlist full of the best old-school to modern Hip Hop.
Next is our team of dedicated editors who ensure each article meets our standards. They check every article for accuracy, formatting, grammar, and of course, that little extra that makes our content stand out.
Lastly, our readers provide valuable feedback to our team. You help us improve our content and offer more of the content you are looking for. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have an improvement or suggestion that could be made.
Our Core Values
- Passion for Hip Hop
- Love of Music
- Creativity
- Accuracy
- Respect
Meet Our Crew
We have a large team of loyal Hip-Hop fans, but these are some of our featured members!
Colin Mahar – Songwriter and Producer
Colin is a content creator based out of New York City. He loves rap music because it combines various things he enjoys, like art, fashion, and film. He spends his time writing and producing music when he’s not working. He’s eager to share with you his first-hand experiences in the industry.
What inspired your interest in hip-hop music?
I’ve always been a big music fan, but hip hop specifically stood out to me because of the way it also brought together other things I’m passionate about, like fashion, film, and art. So it always captured my interest.
Do you have a favorite artist?
It’s always tough to pick a favorite artist because my favorites change all the time, but the Notorious BIG was the first rapper that got me into the genre, so I’d have to go with him.
What is your favorite concert memory?
My favorite concert memory was seeing the Wu-Tang clan live. They are my favorite group, and I saw them at a small club in my hometown when I was in high school.
Have you ever tried to make music of your own?
Yes, I do make music on my own; I’m a songwriter and producer.
Simoun Redoblado – Rap Loving English Teacher
Simoun fell in love with Hip Hop when he first heard Eminem’s single Lose Yourself in 2002. By the time he was an adult, he tends to listen to exclusively Hip Hop, a trend that continues to this day. As an English teacher, he loves Hip Hop for what it is underneath, beautiful poetry that blends sound, imagery, and wordplay. What’s not to love!
What inspired your interest in hip-hop music?
I fell madly in love with hip hop when Eminem released his single “Lose Yourself” in 2002. That song had catchy rhyme schemes, outstanding production, and one hell of an inspirational message. As the years went by, I found myself gradually eliminating all other genres from my playlist until it became exclusively hip hop. This is because I came to appreciate it as poetry: a brilliant blend of sound devices, imagery, and word choice. (Blame the English teacher in me for nerding out on this music!) These days, I seldom listen to anything that isn’t rap music
Do you have a favorite artist?
To me, Eminem is the William Shakespeare of rap. My passion for his music is matched only by my love for Kenrick Lamar’s art. Kendrick is four years older than me, and I relate to his characteristics as a student of the game and a father of two. I also love listening to Tupac Shakur and the Notorious B.I.G., whom I consider to be the two greatest rappers in history. The other artists who have caught my fancy include J. Cole, Nas, Jay-Z, Drake, T.I., and Big L.
What is your favorite concert memory?
Sadly, I’ve never been to a hip-hop concert before! However, I’m glad to say that I got to attend a concert in the world-famous Araneta Coliseum (where the Thrilla in Manila was held). There, I got to jam to Boyce Avenue as well as local music icon Moira dela Torre.
Have you ever tried to make music of your own?
The closest I’ve come to making music on my own is translating English songs into my native language of Filipino, as well as writing poems infused with sound devices inspired by hip hop.
Theo Tonca – Life Long Hip Hop Fan
Theo grew up in L.A. surrounded by Hip Hop music. He’s been a lifelong fan since 1993, and as a young adult, he started a hip-hop/R&B party promotion business and then went on to work at Hip & Hop and R & B nightclubs. Eventually, he sold the company and started working for Creative Artists Agency. Now he’s a full-time writer who focuses on writing Hip Hop and R & B content for the masses. In the past, he’s created weekly columns that profile the best new underground artist; now, he brings that knowledge to Hip Hop Insider to give the inside beat on your favorites.
What inspired your interest in hip-hop music?
It was all around me growing up, from OG’s bumping The D.O.C. to Above The Law and those closer to my generation listening to Snoop and Tha Dogg Pound.
I came to gain an appreciation for the culture, where it comes from, and those who continue to push it forward.
Do you have a favorite artist?
The Notorious B.I.G.
What is your favorite concert memory?
Up in Smoke Tour in 2000
Have you ever tried to make music of your own?
Never, but I’ve been involved in it in one way or another since I was 15. First with starting a hip-hop/R&B party promotion business, then interning at a large talent agency after I sold that business, and now documenting the culture.