Chillhop is a subgenre of hip hop that introduces the downtempo variant.

The style dates back to the 1990s when American producers such as J Dilla and Pete Rock pioneered the movement. Chillhop became popular in the anime community thanks to Japanese producer Nujabes in the 2000s. Its instrumental version has found success as background music for studying and events.

Its ambient sound takes a warmer approach. The production oscillates between slower and faster beats, usually in the electronic and boom bap categories. Although they are not the main focus, vocal samples make up the arrangement. Its inclusion in rap varies from showcasing no topic at all to exploring personal or conscious themes.

Chillhop borrows from soul, funk, jazz, and R&B, resulting in a smooth atmosphere.

Artists:

• The Roots
• Miscellaneous
• Madlib
• The Pharcyde