Something I've always wondered.

I do like bands such as NWA, Run DMC, Cypress Hill, Public Enemy etc, and when I talk about these, I call them Rap, but I hear a lot of people talking about this kind of music saying they like Hip Hop.

So, what's the difference?

Well first and most importantly, hip hop is more than just a musical genre, it's a subculture.

Music, poetry, fashion, graffiti, skateboarding, roller-skating, break dancing, art, politics etc.

Music wise, hip hop doesn't necessarily need to have rapping or any vocals in it at all. The terms rap and hip hop have probably become interchangeable because of the subgenre "gangsta rap", which has lead to many to emphasis the term "hip hop" or "real hip hop" to artists who espouse more aspects from the subculture.

Run DMC and Public Enemy are pure hip hop, in every sense.

So, to break it down simply, Rap is a type of music, Hip Hop is a lifestyle?

Pretty much.

Thank you

No worries. This thread has reminded me of a band i haven't listened to in quite a while: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXtJRv36ttU

Rap has also evolved into other genres, such as metal and even dance.

Yeah, hence "nu metal" bands, RATM, etc.

It sure did, some to great effect, some to Limp Bizkit

The likes of Cypress Hill embraced metal in some of their tracks, and I think Bodycount were a great hybrid of the two.

Isn't Rap more angrier, whilst Hip Hop is more happier? I don't know just taking a punt in the dark!