phonk

Phonk is a subgenre of hip-hop that blends the aesthetics of 1990s Memphis rap with lo-fi production and a nostalgic, cinematic feel. It typically relies on samples from older hip-hop, funk, and soul records, as well as horror-film vocal clips. The sound is often described as muffled and dusty, with heavy reverb, a slowed or chopped-and-screwed feel, and prominent 808 basslines.

Origins and development: Phonk traces to the Memphis scene of the early 1990s, drawing on the chopped-and-screwed techniques popularized by DJ Screw and the dark, bass-driven style of Memphis artists such as Three 6 Mafia. Early phonk tracks reused vinyl and cassette-era samples, sometimes paired with analog synths to create a retro mood. The style was kept alive by underground producers who circulated tapes and records within regional scenes.

Modern revival and spread: Since the mid-2010s, phonk has experienced an internet-driven revival on platforms such as SoundCloud and YouTube. Contemporary producers, including Soudiere, Mythic, DJ Smokey, and DJ Yung Vamp, helped shape newer strands often referred to as drift phonk or city phonk. Visuals frequently feature retro VHS aesthetics and car- or street-culture imagery. Tracks range from instrumental to vocal-driven and commonly employ distorted drums, moody melodies, and sample-forward production.

Cultural context: Phonk intersects with the broader lo-fi hip-hop and Southern rap movements, influencing underground circles and drifting culture while contributing to the evolving landscape of meme-driven and online-originated hip-hop.