When reminiscing about Greek culture many refer to the archeological sites like the Parthenon, mediterranean cuisine, or the stereotype of saying “opa!”. Although Greek culture has qualities such as an amazing history and delicious food, there is more to the Greeks than what one sees on the surface. Since the start of the decade, in particular the late 2010’s the hip hop/music scene has picked up drastically in Greece. Many Greeks listen to USA based hip hop/rap artists, and sometimes emulate them in their dress code too. This is due to the exposure Greeks have of the United States through the internet and music websites; youtube and MTV for example. The American rap music has a unique rhythm, catchy lyrics, and associated with loud, expensive clothing styles. Of course the Greeks are very fond of dressing well, looking good, and having a good taste in music, so they gravitate towards the hip hop/rap movement. Despite being relatively recent to the country, the culture is expanding rapidly amongst the youthful age groups (ages 10-30’s), and has its presence on graffiti, clothing choice, and music playlists of many Greeks. Even though many Greeks have American Rap music on their radar, the scene of domestically produced rap music is also popular. In fact, the most listened to artist in Greece (according to Spotify music streaming service) was a Greek based rapper.
What makes the hip-hop/rap culture dominant amongst the youthful age groups mentioned is primarily linked to 1) The desire to be associated with American entertainment culture in some way, 2) The music is very unique (sound, lyrics, rhythm, 3) image linked to those who listen and make rap music. In further detail, many Greeks admire American popular culture, sports like the Basketball (NBA in general) have a huge following here, while American clothing brands like Air Jordan dominate their wardrobes. Greeks also take their dress and appearance into account more than other countries, such as America. Rap music, checks all those boxes mentioned. The music has an association with tough people who dress in very expensive designer and street clothes, sports like basketball dominate the rap scene, and is an American based form of music. As an outsider, it is quite tempting and exciting to be exposed to something so different from what is seen in any other country around the world. The music in Greece is very instrument based and vocal, lyrics filled with love and peace, and artists who dress moderately. Yet, the rap scene is everything but what is listed above. Expensive flashy clothes, lyrics filled with violence and inappropriate words, and lots of auto tune can be found in many rap songs today. It is the idea of being rebellious and different is what makes Greeks attracted to rap. That is truthful, as Greece is not a country filled with violence, people do not use inappropriate language (if at all), and do not dress over the top for attention or to show off their financial assets. Although none of the listeners to rap music within Greece are even tempted to recreate the acts of violence and drugs, they like the tough vibe it gives them.
For many years American celebrities have congregated in Greece for vacation, and Greeks have become familiar with the names and sights of famous Americans over time. Greeks see America as a highly successful, well of society with great financial stability. When seeing these Americans they get exposed to the 1%, most elite group of Americans who do not represent the rest of the country or average citizen. But, due to lack of exposure to other Americans, Greeks are attracted to the foreigners as they are only able to see the elite. It is very difficult to not be fond of all the abundant materialism, attention from media, and foreign culture the American celebrities bring with them. The vision of being an American comes from these successful people, and Greeks see the Hip-Hop/Rappers, NBA Athletes, and Hollywood Actors as what it means to be successful and American. Thus, they tailor their thoughts to believe what they only see. Hence another reason to like rap music, as it is American, and America equals lots of money (to put it simply) in the minds of many Greeks. Boasting a big bank account and being flashy is not the true definition of success, but these Americans are something new, so that is another attraction, the outsider element.
This year, Spotify, a popular worldwide streaming service collected data from listeners and displayed the most listened to artists in personal and nation wide playlists. In Greece, SNIK found himself on the #1 spot for 2020. Born and raised in Greece, the Greek rapper has found himself collaborating with American Rap Artists, like Gucci Mane, and claimed the #1 spot in popularity charts in Italy and Albania. Now, with a domestically grown phenom, the tie to rap culture has gotten even deeper. Association with the cream of the crop American Rap artists and popularity Domestically and throughout Europe, rap is starting to settle in here. The beats and rhythm mimic American rap songs very well, yet the lyrics are not in the same ballpark, as no signs of drugs, violence, and obsessive use of profanity can be found in SNIK’s, or other Greek rappers music. Despite excluding what some may describe as a major characteristic of rap gone missing, Greeks have found themselves through the door in a very demanding and rewarding industry, the Hip Hop/Rap music industry. With time, the lyrics may or may not develop to the malevolent nature found in American rap, but for now, Greeks and Greeks are focusing on building their name within the industry on a worldwide scale.
Affiliation with wealth, popular sports, and interest in foreign culture drives Greeks to Hip Hop/Rap music. They carry much passion and pride in everything they do, and I am sure the uphill trajectory of the rap culture and music production in Greece will continue to grow. It is astonishing what has been accomplished so far, and I wish the best for the domestic artists and producers moving forward.
SKG.7 