Plugg (or PluggNB) is ethereal, melodic hip-hop subgenre characterized by airy beats, reverb-heavy production, and introspective lyrics. Pioneered by MexikoDro and popularized through SoundCloud/YouTube, it represents softer alternative to aggressive trap, embracing dreamy soundscapes and emotional vulnerability.
Sound Profile
Plugg characteristics:
- Ethereal, spacey beats
- Heavy reverb, delay
- Melodic, sing-song flows
- 808s less aggressive than trap
- Atmospheric, dreamy
Key Producers/Artists
Plugg pioneers:
- MexikoDro (producer/pioneer)
- SoFaygo
- KanKan
- Summrs
- Underground SoundCloud scene
The “NB” Addition
PluggNB emerged:
- NB = “new bounce”
- Even more melodic
- R&B influences
- Softer, introspective
Platform Culture
Plugg thrived on:
- SoundCloud uploads
- YouTube type beats
- Underground distribution
- DIY production
Sources:
- Plugg Music Genre Analysis
- SoundCloud Hip-Hop Subgenres Study
- Underground Rap Documentation