Drill is one of the fastest-rising rap subgenres of recent years. It's known for its dark atmosphere, sliding hi-hats and heavy 808 bass; it has spread fast in Turkish rap too. So what exactly is drill, and what sets it apart from other genres?
Where did it come from?
Drill was born in Chicago in the early 2010s; it then gained a distinct, faster, sliding-rhythm identity in the United Kingdom (UK drill). This UK sound became the basic template for the drill spreading worldwide today — and the Turkish rap scene has a strong current fed from this same vein.
The sound that makes drill, drill
- Sliding hi-hats: Triplet hi-hat patterns that speed up and slow down are drill's signature.
- Heavy, sliding 808 bass: An 808 bass that glides from note to note builds the genre's dark body.
- Usually around 140 BPM: A tempo that feels fast yet heavy (often perceived as half-time).
- Dark, tense atmosphere: Minor melodies, gloomy piano or string sounds.
The rise of Turkish drill
In Turkish rap, drill is one of the most dynamic currents of recent years. With a young listener base and spread on social media, many new artists and producers embraced this sound — which raised demand for drill beats.
Looking for a drill beat?
If you're a rapper or want to try this sound, the right drill beat is the one that carries your flow: a sliding 808, the right tempo and a dark atmosphere. In the Beat Store you can browse drill and trap beats and find one that fits your style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are drill and trap the same? They're relatives but not the same. Both use 808s and hi-hats; but drill's sliding 808s, triplet hi-hats and dark atmosphere set it apart.
What BPM is drill? Usually around 140 BPM; fast, but often perceived as half-time (heavy).
Is there Turkish drill? Yes, Turkish rap has a strong and rising drill current, and demand is growing in step.
In short
Drill is a rap subgenre known for its sliding hi-hats, gliding 808 bass and dark atmosphere — born in Chicago and shaped in the UK. It's rising fast in Turkish rap too. If you want to try this sound, browse drill beats in the Beat Store.