Gimmicks, Ghouls & Genius: Unpacking Horrorcore Hip Hop

Queue Points

This episode of Queue Points dives into the controversial, creative, and deeply Black history of horrorcore hip hop. Join Jay Ray and Sir Daniel as they explore how horrorcore gave artists a space to rap beyond the confines of reality, blending storytelling with the macabre and using exaggerated, sometimes shocking imagery to talk about the real horrors faced by Black communities. From the pioneering Geto Boys and the psychological depths of “Mind Playing Tricks on Me,” to the extreme sounds of Brotha Lynch Hung and the genre’s roots in horror film culture, the hosts break down horrorcore’s origins, regional distinctions, and evolving influence.

They discuss how horrorcore became a tool for expressing taboo emotions—especially among young Black men—and how it’s both fun curiosity and serious commentary, crossing gimmickry and genius. The episode covers the genre’s evolution, its relentless controversies, and its impact on modern hip hop, all while celebrating how Black artists have always used horror as a path to creativity and as a reflection of lived experience.

Tune in for a lively conversation about fangs, folklore, fear, and the enduring legacy of horrorcore in hip hop—and don’t forget to check out their other Halloween-inspired episodes!

Chapter Markers

00:00 Intro

00:16 Welcome to the Show

00:57 Discussing Horrorcore: A Controversial Subgenre

04:16 Origins and Pioneers of Horrorcore

11:28 The Influence of Horror Movies on Horrorcore

17:17 Brotha Lynch Hung and the Extreme Side of Horrorcore

20:43 The Evolution of Horrorcore into Modern Music

26:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

27:56 Outro

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