brockhamptons brilliance *and why it will nvr be done again*
I've been back in my Brockhampton era recently, but for a different reason than before. Despite being a little less than a decade removed from their first release, and 2 years removed from their ultimate separation, my recent “re-fascination” has brought up more questions than my original infatuation; with the main ones being, how did they do it, and why did it end? One of those questions is a lot more clear cut and answerable than the other, but by analyzing what they did, conclusions and answers came. Let's talk about it.
In an industry where the lines between genres blur and new acts emerge on the regular, Brockhampton stood out not merely as a boy band or a rap group, but as a revolutionary force in music. Their rise was meteoric and their impact was undeniable. The collective’s uniqueness wasn’t just in their music, but in their ethos, approach, and the very structure of their existence. They served, and still serve as a reminder of the power of creativity, collaboration, and community. They were a group that thrived on breaking boundaries, and in doing so, they created something that was truly their own. Here’s why Brockhampton was so different and why what they achieved may never be replicated.
A Collective, Not a Band
Brockhampton wasn't just a typical music group; they were a collective in the truest sense. Founded by Kevin Abstract, the group originally came together on a Kanye West fan forum, a modern digital space far removed from the traditional ways groups form. The collective consisted of rappers, singers, producers, designers, directors, and more- each member contributing to a singular vision while maintaining individual creative identities.
Their approach to music-making was refreshingly democratic. Everyone had a voice and everyone's contribution was valued. Their collective mindset created a dynamic where ideas flowed freely, and innovation was encouraged at every turn. The result was a sound and style that felt fully authentic and original, without the constraints of a specific genre or commercial expectation.
2. Diverse Identities and Voices
One of the most significant factors that set Brockhampton apart was the diversity of its members. The group comprised individuals from various backgrounds, ethnicities, and sexual orientations. This diversity wasn't to fit a quota, it was essential to the music they created. Their lyrics touched on issues of race, sexuality, mental health, and more; with an authenticity that resonated with a broad audience.
In a current industry that often markets homogeneity, Brockhampton celebrated difference. Their work provided a voice to the voiceless and shined a light on perspectives that weren't making it into the mainstream. This inclusivity and openness were revolutionary for the time, creating a fanbase that was as diverse and passionate as the group itself.
3. A DIY Aesthetic in a Major Label World
Brockhamptons journey from a DIY, self-produced group to a major label act was anything but typical. Even as they gained mainstream success, they retained their DIY aesthetic, producing music, videos, and even artwork in-house. This allowed them to maintain creative control and keep their art true to their vision.
Their prolific output is a testament to this unorthodox approach. Between 2017 and 2018, Brockhampton released three full-length albums in the “Saturation” series, each packed with innovative production, soul-searching lyrics, and boundary-pushing visuals. This rapid-fire release schedule was unheard of in an era where artists typically take years between projects, further setting them apart from their peers.
4. Unapologetically Experimental
Brockhampton never fit neatly into one genre. Their music was a melting pot of hip-hop, pop, R&B, electronic, and alternative influences. They constantly pushed the boundaries of what a boy band could be, creating a sound that was identifiably theirs. Whether it was the aggressive beats of “BOOGIE,” the contemplative lyrics of “BLEACH,” or the genre-blending, pop-based “SUGAR,” Brockhampton refused to be pigeonholed.
This willingness to experiment extended to their visuals and live performances as well. Their music videos were often surreal, visually stunning, and conceptually rich, further enhancing their mystique and appeal. They weren’t just making music; they were creating a multi-sensory experience that felt fresh and exciting.
5. A Moment in Time
Brockhampton's disbandment in 2022 marked the end of an era. The group had always been more than the sum of its parts, and while each member continues to pursue solo projects, the magic they created together is something that feels almost impossible to replicate. They captured a moment in time—a cultural zeitgeist where the lines between genres, identities, and mediums were blurred and redefined.
Their journey was as much about the community they built as it was about the music they made. Brockhampton was a family, both in the literal sense and in the way they made their fans feel. The connection between the group and their audience was genuine, built on a shared understanding of the struggles and triumphs of being different in a world that often demands conformity.
So, here is my answer. The uniqueness of Brockhampton lies in the converging of several factors: the digital age that brought them together, the diversity and individual talents of the members, and the cultural moment they existed within. While the music industry will continue to evolve, it’s unlikely that we’ll see another collective quite like Brockhampton.
Their music, their message, and their impact will live on, but the alchemy that made Brockhampton, Brockhampton cannot be replicated. They were a revolution, a flash of brilliance that illuminated the music world for a few short years before fading into legend. In a way, that makes their story even more special. Brockhampton was a beautiful, fleeting moment in music history that will never be done again. And in my opinion, that's exactly how it should be.
