Short for “hyperactive,” hyphy was popularized by Oakland rapper Keak da Sneak. The word’s popular usage refers to the music and vibe of the bay — wild, loud and exciting. Whip. Slang for a vehicle, possibly of a more expensive make, but generally used to describe all cars.

What was the purpose of the hyphy movement?

Hyphy (pronounced Hi-fee), is a genre of rap and lifestyle associated with Bay Area hip hop culture that emerged in early 2000 and by 2009 evolved into a counter-cultural social movement for marginalized youth.

What happened to the hyphy movement?

The group released an independent seven-song album in mid-December, but it sold slowly, and the Pack’s April major label release on Jive Records has been postponed to July or August. The hyphy sound won’t disappear, says Bronson of SMC Recordings, but it has to evolve. “We can’t keep using the same buzz words.