How Houston became the self-sustaining heart of Texas rap
As it celebrates its 50th birthday, we are mapping hip-hop's story on a local level, with more than a dozen city-specific histories of the music and culture. Click here to see the entire list.
The bond between Texans and hip-hop runs as deep as blood. I should know: I live in San Antonio now, but I grew up in a small town called Seguin, a little over two hours west of Houston. My mom and my older brother, and subsequently my sister and myself, became early champions of Houston rap; our familial connection was solidified through extended car rides that turned into impromptu recitals of our favorite hits from the region. This summer, I tagged along with my sister to a performance of local rap acts at a nightclub in our hometown. The artists — Citta ThaFatMac, OTB Fastlane, King Cairo and Big Tyme 940 — are from across the state, but as I watched each of them perform, I couldn't help but record their
