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{{Short description|Genre of hip hop music}} {{Short description|Genre of hip hop music}}
{{for multi|the genre that fuses chiptune with various associated rock music and is also sometimes called nerdcore|Nintendocore|the hardcore punk movement|Nardcore}} {{for multi|the genre that fuses chiptune with metalcore and post-hardcore also known as nerdcore|Nintendocore|the hardcore punk movement|Nardcore}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2024}}
{{Infobox music genre <!-- See Misplaced Pages:WikiProject Music genres --> {{Infobox music genre <!-- See Misplaced Pages:WikiProject Music genres -->
| name = Nerdcore | name = Nerdcore
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}} }}
| stylistic_origins = {{hlist|]|]|] culture|]|experimental hip hop}} | stylistic_origins = {{hlist|]|]|] culture|]|experimental hip hop}}
| cultural_origins = Late 1990s-early 2000s | cultural_origins = Late 1990s–early 2000s
| derivatives = | derivatives =
| majority = | majority =
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], considered the "Godfather of Nerdcore", performing in April 2007]] ], considered the "Godfather of Nerdcore", performing in April 2007]]


'''Nerdcore''' is a genre of ] characterized by subject matter considered of interest to ]s and ]s. Self-described nerdcore musician ] has the earliest known recorded use of the term (to describe this genre) in the 2000 song "Nerdcore Hiphop".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://frontalot.com/index.php/?page=lyrics&lyricid=22 |title=MC Frontalot :: Lyric :: Nerdcore Hiphop |publisher=Frontalot.com |date=2007-07-19 |access-date=2013-08-01}}</ref> Frontalot, like most nerdcore artists, self-publishes his work and has released much of it for free online. As a niche genre, nerdcore generally holds to the ], and has a history of self-publishing and self-production.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.boston.com/news/globe/living/articles/2007/11/04/refrain_of_the_nerds/|title=Refrain of the Nerds|work=]|date=November 4, 2007|first=Jeff|last=Miranda}}</ref> '''Nerdcore''' is a genre of ] characterized by subject matter considered of interest to ]s and ]s. Self-described nerdcore musician ] has the earliest known recorded use of the term (to describe this genre) in the 2000 song "Nerdcore Hiphop".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://frontalot.com/index.php/?page=lyrics&lyricid=22 |title=MC Frontalot :: Lyric :: Nerdcore Hiphop |publisher=Frontalot.com |date=July 19, 2007 |access-date=2013-08-01}}</ref> Frontalot, like most nerdcore artists, self-publishes his work and has released much of it for free online. As a niche genre, nerdcore generally holds to the ], and has a history of self-publishing and self-production.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.boston.com/news/globe/living/articles/2007/11/04/refrain_of_the_nerds/|title=Refrain of the Nerds|work=]|date=November 4, 2007|first=Jeff|last=Miranda}}</ref>


Though nerdcore rappers rhyme about anything from ] to ], there are some perennial favorites in nerdcore subject matter, including ], '']'', ], ], ] and ]s. Though nerdcore rappers rhyme about anything from politics to science fiction, there are some perennial favorites in nerdcore subject matter, including ], '']'', ], science, ] and computers.

Music with similar themes, but different musical styles can be found in the ] and ] genres. There are hip hop artists who have recorded ] which focus on similar topics, but who are not generally considered nerdcore. Examples would be ], a group which does not claim to be nerdcore, despite science-oriented songs like "Chemical Calisthenics", and ], who was heavily inspired by ] ]s but is generally seen as more conventional hip hop. Conversely, one does not need to concentrate on those topics to be nerdcore: most of the songs by Frontalot do not focus narrowly on stereotypically nerdy topics. The difference is largely one of self-identification; the group Blackalicious does not identify as "nerds", while Frontalot does.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/05/fashion/05nerdcore.html|title=Dungeons, Dragons and Dope Beats|work=]|date=August 5, 2007|first=Alex|last=Williams}}</ref>


==Sound== ==Sound==
{{Unreferenced section|date=February 2024}} {{Unreferenced section|date=February 2024}}
Being more defined by lyrics, nerdcore has no unifying musical sound, and the sound of nerdcore varies wildly from artist to artist. One common theme, especially in the early days of the genre, is ] ]. ] addressed this directly in his ] song "Good Old Clyde", a thank you of sorts to ] for the "]" ] - which was sampled to provide the song's beat. Sources for samples in nerdcore range from ] to ] ("]", in MC Plus+'s "Computer Science for Life"). ]'s ''Nerdrap Entertainment System'' is an entire album made up primarily of samples from ] ] games. Another notable artist, ], created an album dedicated to the Mega Man video games in 2007 titled ''MegaRan''. Though some artists have moved away from this—Frontalot, for example, completely remixed several songs to remove uncleared samples before releasing them commercially on his ] album '']''—it is still quite common, as most nerdcore tracks are released non-commercially and thus attract little to no attention from the ]. Being more defined by lyrics, nerdcore has no unifying musical sound, and the sound of nerdcore varies wildly from artist to artist. One common theme, especially in the early days of the genre, is ] ]. ] addressed this directly in his 1999 song "Good Old Clyde", a thank you of sorts to ] for the "]" ] – which was sampled to provide the song's beat. Sources for samples in nerdcore range from ] to ] ("]", in MC Plus+'s "Computer Science for Life"). ]'s ''Nerdrap Entertainment System'' is an entire album made up primarily of samples from ] ] games. Another notable artist, ], created an album dedicated to the Mega Man video games in 2007 titled ''MegaRan''. Though some artists have moved away from this—Frontalot, for example, completely remixed several songs to remove uncleared samples before releasing them commercially on his 2005 album '']''—it is still quite common, as most nerdcore tracks are released non-commercially and thus attract little to no attention from the ].


Several DJs have provided beats and done ]es for multiple nerdcore artists, most notably Baddd Spellah, who currently mixes the majority of Frontalot's tracks. Spellah also won a remix competition in ]. Several DJs have provided beats and done ]es for multiple nerdcore artists, most notably Baddd Spellah, who currently mixes the majority of Frontalot's tracks. Spellah also won a remix competition in 2004.


==History== ==History==
{{More citations needed section|date=May 2023}} {{More citations needed section|date=May 2023}}
] performing in June 2007]] ] performing in June 2007]]
The earliest known recorded use of the term "nerdcore hip hop" was in 2000 by MC Frontalot. However, prior to that time artists as varied as the ], ], ], ], ], ], and ] began exploring topics far outside the traditional hip-hop culture, including stereotypically "nerdy" topics like space and science fiction. Though these underground artists were generally outside geek culture and are not considered nerdcore, they can be said to have set the stage for artists like Frontalot, who has listed several of them as influences. ] outer-space sci-fi themed album '']'' in 1998; including, among other potentially influencing tracks, the spacey robotic "]" and the distinctively video game sound themed song "]"; garnered mainstream recognition years ahead of the popular movement. Nerdcore had clear influences from geek culture as well, including ] ]ers like ], parodists like ] (who released a rap called "I Can't Watch This" in ], as well as "]" in ] and "]" in ]), as well as Foil in ] and others. The term "nerdcore hip hop" was first recorded in 2000 by MC Frontalot. However, long before its formal naming, artists like the ], ], ], ], ], ], and ] explored unconventional hip-hop topics, including science fiction and space. While these artists were not directly part of the nerdcore movement, their work influenced its development. For example, the Beastie Boys’ sci-fi-themed 1998 album '']'' featured tracks like "]" and "]," which predated the popularization of nerdcore. Similarly, ] created science-oriented compositions like "Chemical Calisthenics," and ] drew heavy inspiration from comic book ]s. Despite these thematic overlaps, they are generally seen as part of conventional hip hop rather than nerdcore, largely because they did not self-identify as nerdcore artists.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/05/fashion/05nerdcore.html|title=Dungeons, Dragons and Dope Beats|work=]|date=August 5, 2007|first=Alex|last=Williams}}</ref>

Conversely, nerdcore artists do not always concentrate solely on stereotypically "nerdy" topics. For instance, MC Frontalot's songs often explore broader themes. The key distinction between nerdcore and other genres lies in self-identification: while groups like Blackalicious do not label themselves as "nerds," Frontalot and other nerdcore artists embrace that identity.

] performing in January 2013]] ] performing in January 2013]]
Nerdcore was influenced by other "geek" genres, such as ] and ]. Artists like ] and ] (with tracks like "I Can't Watch This," "]," "]," and "Foil") helped lay the groundwork for nerdcore’s rise by combining humor, fandom, and niche cultural references.
In the summer of 2004 the fledgling genre took a large step forward when the popular web comic ] held its first convention, The ], in Bellevue, WA. Though the expo was primarily devoted to video and table top gaming, geek-friendly musicians also performed including Penny Arcade's "official rapper" ] and ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.penny-arcade.com/2004/08/30/check-me-out-i-am-david-duchovny/|work=]|date=August 30, 2004|title=Check Me Out, I Am David Duchovny}}</ref>


The next year, two full concerts took place at the 2005 Penny Arcade Expo and included nerdy hip-hop acts MC Frontalot and Optimus Rhyme.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerdad.com/detail.cfm?itemID=2532|work=GamerDad|title=Penny Arcade Expo 2005|date=September 24, 2005|access-date=July 23, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081205123559/http://www.gamerdad.com/detail.cfm?itemID=2532|archive-date=December 5, 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> After the 2005 expo, all three acts would have the "nerdcore" label permanently affixed to them. Thanks to the popularity of these acts, the nerdcore fan base began to form and in some cases those fans would go on to become nerdcore artists themselves. The genre gained significant traction in 2004 when the webcomic ] held its first convention, the ] (PAX), in Bellevue, Washington. Alongside gaming-focused content, geek-friendly musicians, including MC Frontalot and ], performed at the event.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.penny-arcade.com/2004/08/30/check-me-out-i-am-david-duchovny/|work=]|date=August 30, 2004|title=Check Me Out, I Am David Duchovny}}</ref> The following year’s expo featured full concerts with nerdy hip-hop acts, further solidifying the "nerdcore" label and growing its fan base. Many fans eventually became artists themselves, expanding the genre.


Also in 2005, the new ] of '''geeksta rap''' (named for ]) emerged, largely independently of more traditional nerdcore. The difference was in both lyrics and attitude; the geeksta artists (mostly ]) focused on proclaiming their prowess with computers and other technical abilities. This ] led to the first nerdcore feud, between MC Plus+ and ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.eetimes.com/news/latest/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=179101995&pgno=1|title=Geeksta Rappers Rhyme Tech Talk|work=]|date=February 13, 2006}}</ref> In 2005, a subgenre called '''geeksta rap''' emerged, drawing inspiration from ] but focusing on technical expertise and skills, such as computer programming. This braggadocious style led to nerdcore's first major feud, between MC Plus+ and ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.eetimes.com/news/latest/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=179101995&pgno=1|title=Geeksta Rappers Rhyme Tech Talk|work=]|date=February 13, 2006}}</ref>


] in July 2008]] ] in July 2008]]
In 2006, nerdcore rapper Jason Z. Christie, AKA High-C created the first websites dedicated solely to the genre of nerdcore, NerdcoreHipHop.org and RhymeTorrents.com.<ref> </ref> The sites quickly became the foundation of the scene's online community. Along with the websites, High-C also created the world's first all nerdcore hip-hop compilation CD.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.boingboing.net/2006/04/14/nerdcore-artists-to-.html|work=]|title=Nerdcore Artists to Release Nerd-Rap Compilation Disc|date=April 14, 2006|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081204120632/http://www.boingboing.net/2006/04/14/nerdcore-artists-to-.html|archive-date=December 4, 2008}}</ref> The "Rhyme Torrents Compilation" consisted of numerous volumes and dozens and dozens of tracks by various artists. Soon after the release of the cds, Nerdcore as a genre began getting mainstream press attention.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/wired/archive/14.09/play.html?pg=5|magazine=]|date=November 4, 2007|first=Roger|last=Thomasson|title=Me So Nerdy}}</ref> High-C also appeared in , the film ], and was removed from the release version of the documentary . In 2006, Jason Z. Christie (aka High-C) launched the first websites dedicated solely to nerdcore, NerdcoreHipHop.org and RhymeTorrents.com.<ref></ref> These platforms became hubs for the community and distributed the "Rhyme Torrents Compilation," the first nerdcore-focused CD series. This brought mainstream media attention to the genre, including coverage in '']''.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/wired/archive/14.09/play.html?pg=5|magazine=Wired|date=November 4, 2007|first=Roger|last=Thomasson|title=Me So Nerdy}}</ref>


Additionally, in 2006, ]'s single "]", which critiqued the music industry's stance on digital downloading and highlighted the battles many faced with the RIAA, charted at number 29 on the ].<ref>{{cite web |title=Australian Singles Chart |url=https://australian-charts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=MC+Lars&titel=Download+This+Song&cat=s}}</ref> This not only amplified the reach of nerdcore but also underscored the significance of digital culture and the internet within the evolving landscape of hip hop music.<ref name="UH1">{{cite web|url=http://www.vh1.com/news/articles/1522669/20060127/index.jhtml|title=Canadian Record Label Blasts RIAA Over File-Sharing Lawsuits|first=Gil|last=Kaufman|date=January 27, 2006|accessdate=March 12, 2007|website=]|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20071001030814/http://www.vh1.com/news/articles/1522669/20060127/index.jhtml|archivedate=October 1, 2007}}</ref> MC Lars also contributed to nerdcore’s rise in 2006 with his single "]," which criticized the music industry’s stance on digital downloads. The track charted at #29 on the ] and highlighted the genre’s strong ties to digital culture.<ref>{{cite web |title=Australian Singles Chart |url=https://australian-charts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=MC+Lars&titel=Download+This+Song&cat=s}}</ref><ref name="UH1">{{cite web|url=http://www.vh1.com/news/articles/1522669/20060127/index.jhtml|title=Canadian Record Label Blasts RIAA Over File-Sharing Lawsuits|first=Gil|last=Kaufman|date=January 27, 2006|accessdate=March 12, 2007|website=].com|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20071001030814/http://www.vh1.com/news/articles/1522669/20060127/index.jhtml|archivedate=October 1, 2007}}</ref>


Each summer from July 2008 to 2013, nerdcore rappers and other nerd music acts gathered in Orlando, Florida for an event named ], a nerd music charity festival based on bringing various genres of "nerd music" together into one large production.<ref>{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120301122041/http://nerdapalooza.org/|url=http://nerdapalooza.org/|title=Nerdapalooza|archive-date=March 1, 2012 }}</ref> From 2008 to 2013, Orlando, Florida hosted ], an annual charity festival bringing together nerdcore acts and other "nerd music" genres.<ref>{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120301122041/http://nerdapalooza.org/|url=http://nerdapalooza.org/|title=Nerdapalooza|archive-date=March 1, 2012 }}</ref> In 2009, Amsterdam hosted "Glitched: The Dutch Nerdcore Event," featuring European premieres and performances by MC Lars, YTCracker, Beefy, and MC Router.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.glitched.nl/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081025105226/http://www.glitched.nl/|url-status=dead|archive-date=2008-10-25|title=GLITCHED – The Dutch Nerdcore Event|publisher=Glitched.nl|date=February 26, 2009|access-date=2013-08-01}}</ref>


⚫ By the late 2010s and early 2020s, Nerdcore expanded on platforms like YouTube, giving rise to subgenres like ] (focused on anime-themed rap) and Hackcore, which explores hacking and tech culture.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-feature/2022/06/02-1/interview-gameboyjones-on-how-to-write-rap-songs-about-anime|title=Crunchyroll – INTERVIEW: GameboyJones on How to Write Rap Songs About Anime|website=Crunchyroll.com|access-date=May 25, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://volt.fm/genre/6380/anime-rap | title=Anime Rap artists, songs, albums, playlists and listeners |website=Volt.fm }}</ref>
"Glitched: The Dutch Nerdcore Event" was the first major, all-nerdcore event to be held outside the United States.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.glitched.nl/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081025105226/http://www.glitched.nl/|url-status=dead|archive-date=2008-10-25|title=GLITCHED - The Dutch Nerdcore Event|publisher=Glitched.nl|date=2009-02-26|access-date=2013-08-01}}</ref> It took place at Club Panama in Amsterdam in February 2009 and featured the European premiere of the documentary ] as well as performances of four rappers from the film, MC Lars, YTCracker, Beefy and MC Router.

⚫ As of the late 2010s-to-early 2020s, a branch of Nerdcore has taken off of YouTube where musicians create songs about famous video games, movies, anime and other famous forms of media. This branch of Nerdcore has since branched off into a new sub-genre of Nerdcore called Otacore (mix of Otaku meaning a fan of Japanese culture and Nerdcore) or Anime Rap where artists rap and sing about characters from anime. Famous artists of Otacore include Rustage, Daddyphatsnaps, Shao Dow, Shwabadi, Connor Quest, Divide Music, HalaCG, FabvL, DizzyEight, GameboyJones and Cam Steady.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-feature/2022/06/02-1/interview-gameboyjones-on-how-to-write-rap-songs-about-anime|title=Crunchyroll - INTERVIEW: GameboyJones on How to Write Rap Songs About Anime|website=Crunchyroll.com|access-date=25 May 2023}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web | url=https://volt.fm/genre/6380/anime-rap | title=Anime Rap artists, songs, albums, playlists and listeners |website=Volt.fm }}</ref> <ref>{{cite web | url=https://volt.fm/genre/1966/otacore | title=Otacore artists, songs, albums, playlists and listeners |website=Volt.fm }}</ref>

In recent years a new genre of nerdcore has emerged that is referred to as HackOr sometimes pronounced as Hack Core.


==Film== ==Film==
] performing in February 2008]] ] performing in February 2008]]
Two feature-length documentaries about the world of nerdcore were completed in early 2008, '']'' and '']''. ''Nerdcore Rising'', directed by New York filmmakers ] and ], follows nerdcore pioneer ] as he embarked on his first US tour in 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nerdcorerisingmovie.com|title=Nerdcore Rising: The Movie|work=Nerdcorerisingmovie.com}}</ref> ''Nerdcore For Life'' by Chicago director Dan Lamoureux examines the genre as a whole and contains appearances by over three dozen of the best known performers in the scene.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.Nerdcoreforlife.com|title=Nerdcore For Life|work=Nerdcoreforlife.com}}</ref> Two feature-length documentaries about the world of nerdcore were released in early 2008: '']'' and '']''. While both films aimed to document the rise of nerdcore, they faced criticism for not fully addressing the genre's complexity and controversies. ''Nerdcore Rising'' premiered at the ] on March 9, 2008, while ''Nerdcore For Life'' debuted at the tenth annual ] on April 5, 2008.

''Nerdcore Rising,'' directed by New York filmmakers ] and ], focuses on nerdcore pioneer ] and his first US tour in 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nerdcorerisingmovie.com|title=Nerdcore Rising: The Movie|work=Nerdcorerisingmovie.com}}</ref> The film was noted for centering primarily on Frontalot’s journey, leaving broader aspects of the genre underexplored.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tinymixtapes.com/film/nerdcore-rising|title=Tiny Mix Tapes}}</ref>

''Nerdcore For Life,'' directed by Chicago filmmaker Dan Lamoureux, examines the genre through appearances by over three dozen notable performers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.Nerdcoreforlife.com|title=Nerdcore For Life|work=Nerdcoreforlife.com}}</ref> Critics pointed to challenges in capturing the genre’s diverse perspectives and addressing key cultural issues within the nerdcore <ref>{{cite web|url=community.https://theindependentcritic.com/nerdcore_for_life|title=The Independent Critic}}</ref>

== Controversies ==
Nerdcore, as a genre, has faced intense and polarizing controversies, with its connection to ]'s cultural foundations sparking fierce debate. Central to the conflict is the accusation that nerdcore distances itself from hip-hop's sociocultural roots, which are inextricably tied to ]. Critics have argued that the genre, historically dominated by white artists, risks veering into ], effectively erasing the contributions and struggles of Black communities that birthed hip-hop.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2008/may/30/popandrock.urban |title=Pop and Rock |date=May 30, 2008 |website=The Guardian |access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref> These tensions boiled over in 2010, igniting widespread online discourse as heated arguments erupted over nerdcore's racial dynamics. Accusations of "whitewashing" hip-hop's heritage became a flashpoint, with critics questioning whether the genre's rise among predominantly white audiences signaled an intentional or unconscious erasure of Black culture. The debate cast a harsh spotlight on the ethical responsibilities of nerdcore artists and fans, forcing the community to reckon with the consequences of its identity and impact.<ref>{{cite news |last=Palopoli |first=Steve |title=Is White Rap Racist? MC Lars ignites controversy, rocks his anniversary |url=https://www.metrosiliconvalley.com/is-white-rap-racist/ |work=Metro Silicon Valley |date=February 24, 2010 |access-date=August 9, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.amazon.com/Other-Peoples-Property-Hip-Hop/dp/B001P80LB4/ |title=Other People's Property: A Shadow History of Hip-Hop in White America |author=Jason Tanz |date=2007 |website=Amazon.com |access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref>

Another layer of controversy within the nerdcore community centers on the personal behavior of some of its stars. Notably, ] faced backlash in 2012 when he had a fan ejected from a show over a critical tweet. The incident was widely condemned and led to a significant decline in his popularity, influencing his decision to retire from touring.<ref>Eakin, Marah (July 19, 2012). . '']''.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/wenjiazhao/2012/07/19/rapper-evicts-fan-from-show-due-to-tweet-pitchforks-and-apologies-follow/ |title=Rapper Evicts Fan From Show Due To Tweet; Pitchforks And Apologies Follow |publisher=Forbes |date=July 19, 2012 |access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref>


Additionally, in 2016, ] faced backlash after calling the creators of a contestant's favorite music genre, nerdcore hip-hop, "losers" during a '']'' episode. The contestant, Susan Cole, had shared her love for nerdcore, appreciating how it focuses on video games, science fiction, and other niche interests. Trebek’s comment, meant as a joke, sparked outrage on social media. Despite the controversy, Cole won $22,600 and returned for another episode.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://variety.com/2016/tv/news/jeopardy-alex-trebek-losers-1201887940/ |title=Alex Trebek’s ‘Jeopardy!’ Remarks About Contestants’ Losses Spark Controversy |author= |date=October 18, 2016 |website=Variety |access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref> The incident would later resurface on social media during the ], leading fans to revisit the moment.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://nypost.com/2020/04/23/alex-trebek-calling-jeopardy-contestant-a-loser-stuns-fans/ |title=Alex Trebek calling ‘Jeopardy!’ contestant a ‘loser’ stuns fans |author= |date=April 23, 2020 |website=New York Post |access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref>
''Nerdcore Rising'' premiered at the ] on March 9, 2008, ''Nerdcore For Life'' at the tenth annual ] on April 5, 2008.


==See also== ==See also==
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] ]
] ]
] ]
] ]

Latest revision as of 17:01, 13 December 2024

Genre of hip hop music For the genre that fuses chiptune with metalcore and post-hardcore also known as nerdcore, see Nintendocore. For the hardcore punk movement, see Nardcore.

Nerdcore
Other names
  • Nerdcore hip hop
  • geek rap
  • nerd rap
Stylistic origins
Cultural originsLate 1990s–early 2000s
Subgenres
Geeksta rap
Other topics
Photograph of a man in a green shirt holding a microphone.
MC Frontalot, considered the "Godfather of Nerdcore", performing in April 2007

Nerdcore is a genre of hip hop music characterized by subject matter considered of interest to nerds and geeks. Self-described nerdcore musician MC Frontalot has the earliest known recorded use of the term (to describe this genre) in the 2000 song "Nerdcore Hiphop". Frontalot, like most nerdcore artists, self-publishes his work and has released much of it for free online. As a niche genre, nerdcore generally holds to the DIY ethic, and has a history of self-publishing and self-production.

Though nerdcore rappers rhyme about anything from politics to science fiction, there are some perennial favorites in nerdcore subject matter, including anime, Star Wars, role-playing games, science, fantasy and computers.

Sound

This section does not cite any sources. Please help improve this section by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (February 2024) (Learn how and when to remove this message)

Being more defined by lyrics, nerdcore has no unifying musical sound, and the sound of nerdcore varies wildly from artist to artist. One common theme, especially in the early days of the genre, is uncleared sampling. MC Frontalot addressed this directly in his 1999 song "Good Old Clyde", a thank you of sorts to Clyde Stubblefield for the "funky drummer" break – which was sampled to provide the song's beat. Sources for samples in nerdcore range from Vanilla Ice to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart ("Rondo Alla Turca", in MC Plus+'s "Computer Science for Life"). YTCracker's Nerdrap Entertainment System is an entire album made up primarily of samples from 8-bit Nintendo games. Another notable artist, Random, created an album dedicated to the Mega Man video games in 2007 titled MegaRan. Though some artists have moved away from this—Frontalot, for example, completely remixed several songs to remove uncleared samples before releasing them commercially on his 2005 album Nerdcore Rising—it is still quite common, as most nerdcore tracks are released non-commercially and thus attract little to no attention from the RIAA.

Several DJs have provided beats and done remixes for multiple nerdcore artists, most notably Baddd Spellah, who currently mixes the majority of Frontalot's tracks. Spellah also won a remix competition in 2004.

History

This section needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources in this section. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (May 2023) (Learn how and when to remove this message)
Photograph of a woman holding a microphone
MC Router performing in June 2007

The term "nerdcore hip hop" was first recorded in 2000 by MC Frontalot. However, long before its formal naming, artists like the Beastie Boys, Kool Keith, Deltron 3030, MC 900 Ft. Jesus, MC Paul Barman, Company Flow, and MF Doom explored unconventional hip-hop topics, including science fiction and space. While these artists were not directly part of the nerdcore movement, their work influenced its development. For example, the Beastie Boys’ sci-fi-themed 1998 album Hello Nasty featured tracks like "Intergalactic" and "Unite," which predated the popularization of nerdcore. Similarly, Blackalicious created science-oriented compositions like "Chemical Calisthenics," and MF DOOM drew heavy inspiration from comic book supervillains. Despite these thematic overlaps, they are generally seen as part of conventional hip hop rather than nerdcore, largely because they did not self-identify as nerdcore artists.

Conversely, nerdcore artists do not always concentrate solely on stereotypically "nerdy" topics. For instance, MC Frontalot's songs often explore broader themes. The key distinction between nerdcore and other genres lies in self-identification: while groups like Blackalicious do not label themselves as "nerds," Frontalot and other nerdcore artists embrace that identity.

Photograph of a man in a red jacket holding a microphone.
YTCracker performing in January 2013

Nerdcore was influenced by other "geek" genres, such as filk and geek rock. Artists like They Might Be Giants and "Weird Al" Yankovic (with tracks like "I Can't Watch This," "It's All About the Pentiums," "White & Nerdy," and "Foil") helped lay the groundwork for nerdcore’s rise by combining humor, fandom, and niche cultural references.

The genre gained significant traction in 2004 when the webcomic Penny Arcade held its first convention, the Penny Arcade Expo (PAX), in Bellevue, Washington. Alongside gaming-focused content, geek-friendly musicians, including MC Frontalot and Optimus Rhyme, performed at the event. The following year’s expo featured full concerts with nerdy hip-hop acts, further solidifying the "nerdcore" label and growing its fan base. Many fans eventually became artists themselves, expanding the genre.

In 2005, a subgenre called geeksta rap emerged, drawing inspiration from gangsta rap but focusing on technical expertise and skills, such as computer programming. This braggadocious style led to nerdcore's first major feud, between MC Plus+ and Monzy.

Photograph of a man in a purple shirt and black suit holding a microphone.
Schäffer the Darklord performing at Nerdapalooza in July 2008

In 2006, Jason Z. Christie (aka High-C) launched the first websites dedicated solely to nerdcore, NerdcoreHipHop.org and RhymeTorrents.com. These platforms became hubs for the community and distributed the "Rhyme Torrents Compilation," the first nerdcore-focused CD series. This brought mainstream media attention to the genre, including coverage in Wired.

MC Lars also contributed to nerdcore’s rise in 2006 with his single "Download This Song," which criticized the music industry’s stance on digital downloads. The track charted at #29 on the ARIA Chart and highlighted the genre’s strong ties to digital culture.

From 2008 to 2013, Orlando, Florida hosted Nerdapalooza, an annual charity festival bringing together nerdcore acts and other "nerd music" genres. In 2009, Amsterdam hosted "Glitched: The Dutch Nerdcore Event," featuring European premieres and performances by MC Lars, YTCracker, Beefy, and MC Router.

By the late 2010s and early 2020s, Nerdcore expanded on platforms like YouTube, giving rise to subgenres like Otacore (focused on anime-themed rap) and Hackcore, which explores hacking and tech culture.

Film

Black and white photograph of a man in a hoodie holding a microphone.
MC Chris performing in February 2008

Two feature-length documentaries about the world of nerdcore were released in early 2008: Nerdcore Rising and Nerdcore For Life. While both films aimed to document the rise of nerdcore, they faced criticism for not fully addressing the genre's complexity and controversies. Nerdcore Rising premiered at the SXSW Film Conference and Festival on March 9, 2008, while Nerdcore For Life debuted at the tenth annual Wisconsin Film Festival on April 5, 2008.

Nerdcore Rising, directed by New York filmmakers Negin Farsad and Kimmy Gatewood, focuses on nerdcore pioneer MC Frontalot and his first US tour in 2006. The film was noted for centering primarily on Frontalot’s journey, leaving broader aspects of the genre underexplored.

Nerdcore For Life, directed by Chicago filmmaker Dan Lamoureux, examines the genre through appearances by over three dozen notable performers. Critics pointed to challenges in capturing the genre’s diverse perspectives and addressing key cultural issues within the nerdcore

Controversies

Nerdcore, as a genre, has faced intense and polarizing controversies, with its connection to hip hop's cultural foundations sparking fierce debate. Central to the conflict is the accusation that nerdcore distances itself from hip-hop's sociocultural roots, which are inextricably tied to African-American culture. Critics have argued that the genre, historically dominated by white artists, risks veering into cultural appropriation, effectively erasing the contributions and struggles of Black communities that birthed hip-hop. These tensions boiled over in 2010, igniting widespread online discourse as heated arguments erupted over nerdcore's racial dynamics. Accusations of "whitewashing" hip-hop's heritage became a flashpoint, with critics questioning whether the genre's rise among predominantly white audiences signaled an intentional or unconscious erasure of Black culture. The debate cast a harsh spotlight on the ethical responsibilities of nerdcore artists and fans, forcing the community to reckon with the consequences of its identity and impact.

Another layer of controversy within the nerdcore community centers on the personal behavior of some of its stars. Notably, mc chris faced backlash in 2012 when he had a fan ejected from a show over a critical tweet. The incident was widely condemned and led to a significant decline in his popularity, influencing his decision to retire from touring.

Additionally, in 2016, Alex Trebek faced backlash after calling the creators of a contestant's favorite music genre, nerdcore hip-hop, "losers" during a Jeopardy! episode. The contestant, Susan Cole, had shared her love for nerdcore, appreciating how it focuses on video games, science fiction, and other niche interests. Trebek’s comment, meant as a joke, sparked outrage on social media. Despite the controversy, Cole won $22,600 and returned for another episode. The incident would later resurface on social media during the COVID-19 lockdown, leading fans to revisit the moment.

See also

References

  1. Garrett, Ural (February 11, 2016). "MC Chris: The People's Champ of Nerdcore Hip Hop". Retrieved March 2, 2021 – via HipHopDX.
  2. Dunnells, Adam (February 26, 2019). "Playlist of the week: Nerdcore hip-hop". Retrieved March 2, 2021 – via thedmonline.com.
  3. "Nerd-Rapper mc chris Talks New Album, Animation, Trauma and Fatherhood". Retrieved August 31, 2021 – via westword.com.
  4. Cabrera, Marc (November 20, 2008). "Nerd rap". Montereyherald.com. Retrieved May 30, 2018.
  5. "MC Frontalot :: Lyric :: Nerdcore Hiphop". Frontalot.com. July 19, 2007. Retrieved August 1, 2013.
  6. Miranda, Jeff (November 4, 2007). "Refrain of the Nerds". The Boston Globe.
  7. Williams, Alex (August 5, 2007). "Dungeons, Dragons and Dope Beats". The New York Times.
  8. "Check Me Out, I Am David Duchovny". Penny Arcade. August 30, 2004.
  9. "Geeksta Rappers Rhyme Tech Talk". EE Times. February 13, 2006.
  10. |sort:relevance/alt.os.linux/PdWzmpb-UP0/dr5uGeZvmN0J
  11. Thomasson, Roger (November 4, 2007). "Me So Nerdy". Wired.
  12. "Australian Singles Chart".
  13. Kaufman, Gil (January 27, 2006). "Canadian Record Label Blasts RIAA Over File-Sharing Lawsuits". VH1.com. Archived from the original on October 1, 2007. Retrieved March 12, 2007.
  14. "Nerdapalooza". Archived from the original on March 1, 2012.
  15. "GLITCHED – The Dutch Nerdcore Event". Glitched.nl. February 26, 2009. Archived from the original on October 25, 2008. Retrieved August 1, 2013.
  16. "Crunchyroll – INTERVIEW: GameboyJones on How to Write Rap Songs About Anime". Crunchyroll.com. Retrieved May 25, 2023.
  17. "Anime Rap artists, songs, albums, playlists and listeners". Volt.fm.
  18. "Nerdcore Rising: The Movie". Nerdcorerisingmovie.com.
  19. "Tiny Mix Tapes".
  20. "Nerdcore For Life". Nerdcoreforlife.com.
  21. .
  22. "Pop and Rock". The Guardian. May 30, 2008. Retrieved August 10, 2024.
  23. Palopoli, Steve (February 24, 2010). "Is White Rap Racist? MC Lars ignites controversy, rocks his anniversary". Metro Silicon Valley. Retrieved August 9, 2024.
  24. Jason Tanz (2007). "Other People's Property: A Shadow History of Hip-Hop in White America". Amazon.com. Retrieved August 10, 2024.
  25. Eakin, Marah (July 19, 2012). "MC Chris kicks fan out of show over a nasty tweet, cries about it". The A.V. Club.
  26. "Rapper Evicts Fan From Show Due To Tweet; Pitchforks And Apologies Follow". Forbes. July 19, 2012. Retrieved August 10, 2024.
  27. "Alex Trebek's 'Jeopardy!' Remarks About Contestants' Losses Spark Controversy". Variety. October 18, 2016. Retrieved August 10, 2024.
  28. "Alex Trebek calling 'Jeopardy!' contestant a 'loser' stuns fans". New York Post. April 23, 2020. Retrieved August 10, 2024.

Further reading

  • Russell, Chris (2014). "Now Its Time for a Little Braggadocio". In DiBlasi, Alex; Willis, Victoria (eds.). Geek Rock: An Exploration of Music and Subculture. Rowman & Littlefield. pp. 161–174. ISBN 9781442229761.
  • Sewell, Amanda (2015). "Nerdcore hip-hop". In Williams, Justin A. (ed.). The Cambridge Companion to Hip-Hop. Cambridge Companions to Music. Cambridge University Press. pp. 223–231. ISBN 9781107037465.
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