In a groundbreaking move, Apple Music pays tribute to the influential genre of hip-hop as it reaches a monumental milestone: 50 years of shaping the music landscape. To honor this momentous occasion, Apple Music presents “Hip-Hop DNA,” a captivating 20-episode audio series that delves deep into the evolution of today’s biggest hip-hop stars, tracing their artistic roots back to the very birth of the art form.

At the heart of the program lies a guiding principle: all artists, regardless of era or discipline, carry within them the music and practices of their influences. These influences, in turn, are shaped by the musical legacies that preceded them. “Hip-Hop DNA” explores this interconnected web of influence through four distinct lenses, shedding light on the intricate connections that have shaped hip-hop as we know it today. The series is expertly hosted by Ebro Darden, Apple Music’s global editorial head of hip-hop and R&B, who guides listeners on an immersive journey through the genre’s rich history.

Launching today, on May 8th, “Hip-Hop DNA” kicks off with its first segment titled “Origins.” Over the course of nine episodes released throughout the month of May, listeners will be taken on a captivating exploration of hip-hop’s most prominent regions: the East Coast, West Coast, Midwest, and South. Through in-depth interviews, archival recordings, and expert analysis, “Origins” unearths the storylines and cultural contexts that have shaped the unique identities of these regions, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.

Following the enlightening exploration of hip-hop’s regional origins, Episodes 10 to 20 of “Hip-Hop DNA” will delve into the craftsmanship behind MCing, production, and DJing. Listeners will gain invaluable insights into the artistic techniques, innovative approaches, and creative processes that have propelled hip-hop to its current heights of global domination. With each episode, the series seeks to educate and inform listeners of every era, unveiling hidden connections within the music that fans often overlook.

“Hip-Hop DNA” is a testament to Apple Music’s dedication to providing listeners with unparalleled access to the stories and influences that shape the music they love. By dissecting the building blocks of hip-hop, the series aims to bridge the gap between generations, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the genre’s vibrant past and boundless future.

Prepare to embark on a captivating audio journey as “Hip-Hop DNA” uncovers the origins, craftsmanship, and intricate tapestry of influence that have made hip-hop the cultural force it is today. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the genre, this series promises to expand your musical horizons, enrich your understanding, and ignite your passion for hip-hop’s everlasting legacy. Tune in and discover the hidden connections that have shaped the world of hip-hop for the past 50 years.

Check out Apple Music’s full celebration around 50 years of hip-hop here: apple.co/hiphopdna 

See below for details around episodes 1-5, which launched early May and focus on the story of hip-hop starting with its East Coast birthplace.

The Intro (Ep 1)

In the introductory episode of Apple Music’s Hip-Hop DNA series, we explain how all the music of our most beloved stars carries with it generations of influences. Hip-Hop DNA establishes connections between the artists and eras your average fan is completely oblivious to, educating hip-hop fans both new and seasoned. We’re approaching several facets of hip-hop in this regard, including MCs, Production, and DJs, each of which have their own dedicated series unpacking their own incredible histories. Apple Music’s Hip-Hop DNA is testament to the fact that hip-hop has always been, and will always be, a family affair. Or to put it in the wise words of a Dr. Dre-produced deep-cut, ”We’re All In The Same Gang.“

Bronx Tale (Ep 2)

Within the Bronx Tale episode, we cover some of the borough’s biggest stars, like Cardi B and French Montana, while unpacking a musical lineage that goes back to hip-hop scholar KRS-One and beyond. It’s a long way from someone like Cardi B to KRS—with a lot of artists in between—but as the old saying goes, you can’t know where you’re going until you know where you come from.

Just Wanna Rock (Ep 3)

Contemporary hip-hop artists like Lil Uzi Vert lean heavily into rock sonics and aesthetics, but Uzi is far from the first to do so. The Just Wanna Rock episode of Hip-Hop DNA goes deep on that tradition, highlighting rap-rock pioneers like Beastie Boys and Run DMC.

NY State of Mind (Ep 4)

“New York to the heart, but got love for all,” goes the opening line of Lord Tariq and Peter Gunz’s east coast classic, “Deja Vu (Uptown Baby).” It’s the perfect line to describe the premise of the “NY State of Mind” episode of Apple Music’s Origins series. We’re highlighting the impact of some of the Big Apple’s biggest stars and tracing a path from people like A$AP Rocky back to Rakim (the man he was named after). 

It’s A Queens Thing, Baby (Ep 5)

As many universally adored artists as Queens, New York has delivered to hip-hop, the borough deserves its props. From Nicki Minaj to Nasty Nas to A Tribe Called Quest to Roxane Shante, the lineage of Queens MCs goes deep, and in plenty of different directions. With It’s A Queens Thing, Baby, we’re showing you how everyone in that lineage took something from the players that came before them.