The 10 Best Moments Where Sports And Music Collided In 2024

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All things considered, 2024 was a pretty good year in sports. The biggest events lived up to the hype and the biggest stars gave us some iconic performances. However, it wasn’t just a big year for sports between the lines, as 2024 continued to bring together the worlds of sports and music in some major ways.

Today, as the year is winding down, we wanted to look back on some of our favorite moments from 2024 where sports and music came together to give us some unforgettable moments.

DeMar DeRozan and Russell Westbrook going on stage at The Pop Out

One of the most compelling things in 2024 was the feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, and while this is very much in the eye of the beholder, I suspect most people will say Kendrick won. His victory lap came on Juneteenth, when thousands packed into the Kia Forum for The Pop Out. This included a number of celebrities — LeBron James and James Harden, for example, were seen in the crowd — but the defining moment came at the end, when Kendrick did “Not Like Us” five times in a row. More and more people hopped on stage as he kept repeating the song, which included DeRozan and Westbrook for his fourth performance.

DeMar DeRozan’s cameo in the “Not Like Us” video

Did it ruffle Drake’s feathers? It sure seems like it. But DeRozan eventually revealed that he has a long history with Lamar, a fellow Compton native who he considers “basically family.” He got shouted out in the song, and for a moment, the now-Kings star was in the biggest music video of the year.

Usher’s star-studded Super Bowl halftime show

The halftime show usually shows up on lists like this, but even acknowledging that, Usher’s performance was spectacular. He’s long been an incredible entertainer and has a lengthy discography that lets him go in a ton of different directions, both of which are crucial for a good halftime show. He was fantastic, as were the numerous artists who joined him at one time or another — Alicia Keys, will.i.am, Lil Jon, Ludacris, H.E.R., and Jackson State’s revered marching band Sonic Boom of the South were all part of the show.

Beyoncé’s Christmas Day performance

While the NBA ended up having the better slate of games on Christmas Day, the NFL had one thing they could not match: Beyoncé, who performed a Super Bowl halftime show-caliber set during the otherwise boring game between the Houston Texans and the Baltimore Ravens. She mixed original tracks off of “Cowboy Carter,” including her covers of The Beatles’ “Blackbird” and Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” and her 2023 track “My House.” Shaboozey and Post Malone joined her on stage, as did Brittney Spencer, Reyna Roberts, Tanner Adell and Tiera Kennedy.

Simone Biles’ incredible “Ready For It?” floor routine that Taylor Swift loved

Biles triumphantly returned to the Olympic stage this year after a difficult 2021. This time around, she was nothing short of dominant, winning three golds and a silver in Paris. Before she got there, though, Biles threw down a spectacular floor routine set to “Ready For It?” by Taylor Swift. It went viral, got back to Swift, and completely blew her away, which she made clear with a tweet the following day.

Céline Dion at the Olympics

Dion’s first public performance in four years was worth the wait. The legendary Canadian singer, who has gone through a public battle with stiff-person syndrome, wrapped up the Opening Ceremony at the Summer Olympics in Paris with a performance of “Hymne à l’amour” while standing on the Eiffel Tower. It was a gigantic moment, one that the entire world was watching, and Dion met it with a performance that no one else on earth could replicate.

USA women’s water polo superfan Flavor Flav

The co-founder of Public Enemy was a constant presence in the stands in Paris, primarily for the U.S. women’s water polo team after he learned that the athletes have to work to support themselves as they chase their Olympic dreams. He went on to sponsor the team, hung out with Guy Fieri at one of their games, and made it a point to support other American Olympians, too, like when he showed Jordan Chiles some love after her bronze medal in individual floor exercise was taken away.

Summer Olympic correspondent Snoop Dogg

Snoop getting turned into a professional fan of American athletes in Paris was hilarious. Yes, he made a ton of money to promote the Olympics on NBC, but it also seemed like he had the time of his life going to random events and being himself. We did a run through of his best moments in France right here.

The continued rise of Flau’jae Johnson

On the court, Flau’jae is one of the brightest stars in women’s college hoops. She’s gotten better and better every year for the LSU Tigers, and as of this writing, she leads the undefeated, sixth-ranked Tigers in scoring, going for 20.3 points per game on 51.3 percent shooting from the field and 39.7 percent shooting from three. Off of it, she continues to be one of the best up-and-coming rappers in the game. She dropped her album “Best Of Both Worlds” earlier back in June, which included guest verses from NLE Choppa, Lil Wayne, and 2Rare.

Travis Kelce on stage at the Eras Tour

Kelce has been a fixture at the Eras Tour for quite some time now — as it turns out, dating Taylor Swift means getting tickets for this was much easier than it was for the rest of us. In June, he even made a surprise appearance on stage in London, as he hopped on stage as one of the dancers during Swift’s performance of “I Can Do It With A Broken Heart” at Wembley Stadium.



source https://uproxx.com/sports/best-sports-music-moments-2024/

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Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution

Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution and What Listeners Look For Hip hop is more than just a genre of music; it is a cultural movement that has deeply influenced the world for over four decades. Originating in the South Bronx during the 1970s, hip hop was birthed from the creative expression of marginalized communities. What started as a fusion of DJing, breakdancing, graffiti art and MCing (rapping) quickly became a global phenomenon. Over the years, hip hop has expanded its reach, influencing various aspects of society, from fashion and language to politics and social movements. But what exactly do listeners seek when they tune in to their favorite hip hop tracks? Let’s explore.

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music At its core, hip hop music is built on rhythm and lyricism. Early pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Run-D.M.C. laid the foundation for what we now recognize as hip hop. They mixed disco, funk, and soul beats with rhythmic rapping to create a unique sound. Through the 1980s and 1990s, iconic artists such as Tupac, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas, and Jay-Z further shaped the genre, adding deeper narratives that explored social issues, struggles, and triumphs.
In the 2000s, hip hop saw its golden age evolve into new sub-genres, from Southern hip hop (e.g., OutKast and Lil Wayne) to the rise of trap music (led by artists like Future, Gucci Mane, and Migos). Today, artists continue to experiment with hybrid sounds, blending trap with pop, rock, and electronic music, creating a more diverse landscape for the genre.

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music While the genre has evolved, the heart of hip hop music still beats with certain core elements that listeners continue to seek. Here’s what attracts audiences to hip hop music:

1. Authenticity

One of the most important qualities of hip hop is its authenticity. Listeners are drawn to artists who stay true to themselves, their roots, and their experiences. Whether an artist is rapping about overcoming hardship, life in the streets, or personal triumphs, their genuineness resonates with fans. Authenticity gives hip hop its raw edge, connecting the artist's voice with listeners on a deeply personal level.

2. Lyricism and Wordplay

Hip hop has always been a platform for storytelling, and the craft of lyricism is highly valued. Fans look for clever wordplay, metaphors, punchlines, and deep storytelling in their favorite tracks. Rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nas are revered for their intricate lyricism and ability to convey powerful messages through their words. A song with sharp bars, vivid imagery, and emotional depth can elevate a listener’s connection to the music.

3. Beat and Production Quality

The beat is often the first thing people notice in a hip hop song. A catchy, hard-hitting beat can make or break a track, and producers play an integral role in shaping the sound of hip hop music. Producers like Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Metro Boomin have become household names for their distinctive production styles. From boom-bap beats to trap drums, the instrumental elements are essential in drawing listeners into the rhythm and groove of the song.

4. Innovation and Evolution

Hip hop is known for its constant evolution. Fans of the genre are often on the lookout for artists who push boundaries and experiment with new sounds. This spirit of innovation keeps the genre fresh and exciting. From the rise of auto-tune with artists like T-Pain to the blend of electronic and rap seen with artists like Travis Scott, listeners are eager for new music that challenges the traditional limits of hip hop.

5. Vibe and Energy

Hip hop isn’t just about the lyrics or the beat—it’s also about the energy the music brings. Whether it’s a party anthem, an introspective track, or a political statement, the vibe and energy of a song play a crucial role in how it resonates with fans. Artists like Drake, Cardi B, and Lil Uzi Vert have mastered the art of creating tracks that make listeners feel a certain way, whether it’s hyped up, laid back, or reflective.

6. Relatability and Emotional Connection

Hip hop has always been an outlet for self-expression and commentary on life experiences. Because of this, listeners often gravitate toward songs that reflect their own lives, struggles, and aspirations. Whether it’s a song about the challenges of growing up in a tough environment, the celebration of personal success, or the experience of love and heartbreak, hip hop has the unique ability to connect emotionally with audiences. Fans often seek songs that speak to their individual journeys and provide comfort, validation, or empowerment.

The Global Reach of Hip Hop

What was once confined to the streets of New York City has now become a global cultural force. From Tokyo to Paris, hip hop has spread across continents, influencing artists and listeners worldwide. In recent years, artists from outside the U.S. have brought their own cultural influences to the genre, blending hip hop with local sounds, languages, and traditions. The genre’s global reach is a testament to its universal themes of struggle, self-expression, and empowerment.

Conclusion

Hip hop music is an ever-evolving cultural powerhouse that has grown from a localized subculture into a global sensation. The authenticity, lyricism, production quality, innovation, energy, and emotional depth are the main ingredients that attract listeners to hip hop. While the genre continues to change, its core values remain consistent—offering a space for self-expression, storytelling, and connection. As hip hop continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a major force in shaping the future of music. Whether you’re a fan of classic boom-bap or modern trap, hip hop’s diverse range offers something for everyone, proving that its cultural impact is here to stay.