When it comes to the legendary city and sound of 1990s Memphis rap, there was an endless amount of raw talent spread throughout the metro area. Back in those early days, everything revolved around your neighborhood — your section of the city defined your sound, your crew, and your style.
Most of the scene’s energy came from the North and South sides of Memphis. The North Memphis sound was marked by artists like Skinny Pimp, Juicy J, and Pretty Tony — gritty, bass-heavy, and often darker in tone. Meanwhile, South Memphis was home to figures like DJ Paul, Playa Fly, and Gangsta Blac, bringing that smooth-but-menacing flair that would later help shape Three 6 Mafia’s identity.
Even West Memphis, Arkansas, just across the bridge, had its own movement — with crews like Manson Family and Lo-Down & The Unified Family adding to the region’s underground legacy.
Every part of the city had its own distinct energy, but together they built one of the most influential underground rap scenes in history.
Which part of Memphis was your favorite back in the day — North, South, or West Memphis?
