Music
drill
What does drill mean?
The rap subgenre itself — sparse, sinister beats with sliding 808 basslines, hi-hat triplets, and flat, threatening vocals. Born in Chicago around 2011, mutated hard in South London.
"That UK drill sound is unmistakable — those sliding 808s give it away in two seconds."
Origin
Coined in Chicago's South Side around 2010-2012 (Chief Keef, King Louie era), where 'drill' was street slang for shooting. London producers reworked the sound circa 2015 into UK drill, and Brooklyn drill followed around 2019.
Frequently asked questions
What does drill mean in slang?
It mainly names a dark rap subgenre with sliding 808s and deadpan flows. The street-slang root refers to gang violence, which is why the genre carries controversy.
What's the difference between UK drill and Chicago drill?
Chicago drill is slower and rawer; UK drill runs faster with skippy, syncopated 'sliding' 808s and London slang. Both share the same cold, menacing tone.
Why is drill controversial?
Because some lyrics reference real gang conflict, UK police and courts have used drill videos as evidence and even banned certain tracks. Fans argue it documents reality rather than causing it.
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