The year 2024 was a whirlwind for the hip-hop community, with headlines that ranged from legal battles to award ceremonies, and from tragic losses to remarkable achievements. Here's a month-by-month breakdown of the major events that shaped the year.
January: Legal Wins, Awards, and Losses
The year began with Snoop Dogg filing for the dismissal of a 1993 murder case—a case he was later acquitted of in February, closing a three-decade-long chapter. The 33rd Seoul Music Awards celebrated global artists, with NCT Dream and Blackpink earning top honors, and Dynamic Duo claiming the R&B/Hip-Hop Award.
However, legal troubles loomed large in January. T.I. and his wife Tiny faced lawsuits for alleged misconduct, and YFN Lucci began his RICO trial, later accepting a plea deal that resulted in a short prison sentence. The hip-hop community mourned the loss of Yo Gotti's brother, Big Jook, who was tragically shot in Memphis.
On a brighter note, Rick Ross received the key to Miami for his contributions to the community, while six men were convicted for the murder of FBG Duck, offering some justice for a 2020 tragedy.
February: Grammy Glory and Controversy
The 66th Annual Grammy Awards were a highlight of February, with Killer Mike dominating the night by taking home three awards, including Best Rap Album for MICHAEL. Lil Durk and J. Cole’s All My Life earned Best Melodic Rap Performance. However, the night was marred when Killer Mike was detained for an unrelated incident.
Other February highlights included Beenzino winning Artist of the Year at the Korean Hip-Hop Awards, and the convictions of Karl Jordan Jr. and Ronald Washington for the murder of Jam Master Jay, providing closure to a two-decade-long case.
March: Honors and Hollywood
Dr. Dre’s legacy was cemented with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in March. The Brit Awards crowned Casisdead as Best Hip-Hop/Grime/Rap Act, while TOBi took home Rap Album and Rap Single of the Year at the Juno Awards.
However, controversy arose as Diddy’s home was raided by federal authorities on allegations of sex trafficking. The month also saw the tragic deaths of hip-hop figures Bo$$ and Casey Benjamin.
April: Awards, Arrests, and Activism
The iHeartRadio Music Awards honored Drake as Hip-Hop Artist of the Year, with Ice Spice named Best New Hip-Hop Artist. Meanwhile, Metro Boomin’s Heroes & Villains won Hip-Hop Album of the Year.
April also brought legal troubles for artists, including NBA YoungBoy’s arrest on a staggering 63 charges and GloRilla’s DUI in Atlanta. Internationally, Iranian rapper Toomaj Salehi faced the death penalty for his activism during the Mahsa Amini protests, highlighting the global intersections of music and social justice.
May & June: Losses and Fresh Faces
The summer months were marked by loss, with the deaths of Brother Marquis of 2 Live Crew and Foolio, among others. However, June offered fresh energy with XXL’s 2024 Freshman Class, featuring breakout stars like BigXthaPlug and ScarLip, promising a bright future for the genre.
July & August: Trials and Tributes
Trials for high-profile murders, including those of PnB Rock and Pop Smoke, dominated the headlines. The hip-hop community paid its respects to icons DJ Polo and Chino XL, who passed away in July, and BeatKing, who tragically died in August.
September & October: Controversy and Justice
September brought both accolades and legal turmoil, with GloRilla receiving the key to Memphis, while Diddy faced charges of racketeering and sex trafficking. In October, Young Thug was finally released from prison after a plea deal, marking the end of a two-year incarceration.
November: Industry Shifts
November saw a dramatic twist when Drake filed a RICO petition against Universal Music Group, accusing them of illegal tactics to boost Kendrick Lamar's diss track. The lawsuit hinted at deeper tensions within the industry, closing the year with a significant ripple effect.
Reflections on 2024
From monumental awards to untimely losses and legal battles, 2024 was a year that showcased the resilience and complexities of hip-hop culture. As we step into 2025, the events of this year remind us of the influence and impact of the genre—not just as music but as a reflection of society itself.
What were your favorite or most surprising moments in hip-hop this year? Let us know in the comments!
