Rap Music Faces Chart Changes, No Songs in Billboard’s Top 40

NEW YORK, NY — This week, a significant shift occurred in the music world as Billboard reported that for the first time since 1990, there are no rap songs in the top 40. This change came after the removal of the song “Luther,” which fell from No. 25 to No. 38 during its 46th week on the chart due to recent adjustments in Billboard’s methodology.

The chart’s new rules state that songs will now be removed if they meet certain criteria, including age and chart position. This marks the end of a 35-year streak of rap songs consistently appearing in the top 40.

The news sparked intense discussion on social media, which has been buzzing with reactions from fans and music industry figures alike. On Friday morning, veteran producer ALC shared his insights on X, stating, “No rap in top 40 has nothing to do with the music being bad or good,” though he did not expand on his thoughts.

Many artists have echoed similar sentiments, highlighting a trend of declining commercial dominance for rap music in recent years. In 2023, only two rap tracks made it to the top of the Billboard 200 and Hot 100 charts, underscoring the challenges faced by the genre.

Currently, the highest-charting rap song is “Shot Callin” by a rising artist at No. 44, followed by “Safe” featuring prominent rappers at No. 48 and “Hell at Night” featuring another popular artist at No. 49. As these changes take effect, industry insiders are closely watching to see how rap music will adapt to this new landscape.