Alternative hip-hop refers to hip-hop groups or MCs that refuse to conform to any of the stereotypes of rap that has been built up over the years, such as gangsta, bass, hardcore, and party rap. Instead, they blur genres, sampling from funk and pop/rock, as well as jazz, soul, reggae, and even folk. Most alternative hip-hop groups and artists are embraced primarily by fans that appreciate alternative music in general and "real hip-hop" instead of mainstream rap and pop audiences. .
