During the mid-'80s, hip-hop began to emerge from countries beyond the United States, the first being the U.K. The same basic U.S. production techniques and philosophies were applied by early British rap acts Derek B. and the Cookie Crew. Many British hip-hop artists also incorporated Jamaican-style vocals, resulting in a subgenre called ragamuffin, which is unique from American rap and reggae. In many cases, though, the outstanding difference between U.K. rap and its U.S. cousin remains the dominating presence of the British dialect.

Notable Artists: Daddy Freddy, Stereo MCs, Hijack, Roots Manuva, Braintax, Dizzee Rascal