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Triplet flow is everywhere, in all kinds of rap and pop, all over the globe. What is it? Where'd it come from? Let's learn more! (1/7)
Here are some examples, with a bonus clip in Romanian
Here are some examples, with a bonus clip in Romanian
First of all, "triplet flow" (or "Migos Flow") is simply when rappers divide each beat into three evenly-spaced syllables instead of the usual two or four. It's REALLY popular. So popular that Snoop calls it "addictive," despite clearly not being much of a fan: (2/7)
To find what's usually considered to be the first example of triplet flow, we have to go way back to 1987--here's Chuck D doing it on Public Enemy's "Bring the Noise." Notice how his triplets aren't the perfectly-even syllables that we associate with modern trap. (3/7)
Many agree that rappers from the SouthâMemphis, TN specificallyâdeserve most of the credit for popularizing this type of flow. Lord Infamous, the rest of Three 6 Mafia, and Skinny Pimp were huge proponents of the style in the 90s. (4/7)
Not long after this, triplet flow made it to Atlanta, GA, where it has been a staple in the deliveries of many rappers in the area since the early 2000s. Crime Mob, Roscoe Dash, Killer Mike, Jeezy, 2 Chainz, and yes, Migosâthey all rock the triplets. Here's Diamond: (5/7)
After taking over much of Southern rap, triplet flow eventually found its way into the flows of huge, successful rappers from coast to coast. Here's Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Chance the Rapper, and Eminem all trying it out: (6/7)
Ultimately, like many aspects of hip-hop culture, triplet flow has been appropriated by ultra-successful pop singers like Ariana Grande. (7/7)
So, long story short, if your kids dig Ariana's vocal delivery on "7 Rings," give them a Three 6 Mafia record!
So, long story short, if your kids dig Ariana's vocal delivery on "7 Rings," give them a Three 6 Mafia record!
