The Rap Year Book

New York Times Bestseller!
Washington Post Bestseller!
Pitchfork Book Club selection!

From Sugarhill Gang to NWA to Biggie to Kanye, The Rap Year Book takes readers on a journey that begins in 1979, widely regarded as the moment rap became recognized as part of the cultural and musical landscape, and works its way right up to the present.

Shea Serrano deftly pays homage to the most important song of each year. Serrano also examines the most important moments that surround the history and culture of rap music—from artists’ backgrounds to issues of race, the rise of hip-hop, and the struggles among its major players—both personal and professional. Covering East Coast and West Coast, famous rapper feuds, chart toppers, and showstoppers.

It’s like the gold tank from Master P’s “Make ’Em Say Uhh!” video, except it’s a book. It’s like Kanye’s verse on “Put On,” except it’s a book. It’s like the face Biggie made when on the boat with Puff in “Hypnotize,” except it’s a book. Songs include:

• 1979: Rapper’s Delight
• 1982: The Message
• 1988: Straight Outta Compton
• 2004: Still Trippin’
• 2007 International Players Anthem
• 2010: Monster
• One for every year!

The Rap Year Book is an in-depth look at the most influential genre of music in our generation. Complete with infographics, lyric maps, hilarious and informative footnotes, portraits of the artists, and short essays by other prominent music writers, The Rap Year Book is both a narrative and illustrated guide to the most iconic and influential rap songs ever created.