Hip hop clubs in London

For when you want star names

The Doc’s Orders have hosted more hip hop legends over the years than you’ve had hangovers. So put yourself in their capable hands and absorb the sounds of awesome artists, including producer-to-the-stars Just Blaze, Will Smith's bessie Jazzy Jeff and hip hop royalty Afrika Bambaataa all of whom have graced London courtesy of The Doc’s Orders.

For when you’ve been necking gin and juice...

Who hasn’t stood in front of a mirror, rhyming (and flexing) along with LL Cool J to ‘Mama Said Knock You Out’. Now’s your chance to wow the public with your rhymes, karaoke-style, at this long-running party.

For when you want to get low...

If you like your rap served on-trend, low-down and Southern US-style (harder and grittier), let Southern Hospitality be your musical sommeliers. Think Rick Ross, Gucci Mane and dirty beats.

For when you want to just wanna grrrind…

Hip hop purists, look away now. This gritty club night unapologetically mashes-up hip hop with garage, R&B, grime, bass and pop. In the past, Gold Teeth have hosted a Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child edition and a Kanye West birthday special, which should give you an idea of their varied vibe.

For when you want something unique

Primarily a showcase for live acts rather than a regular club night, Gully is a gay hip hop party, founded by rapper QBoy and DJs MistaMaker and Ninebob. Alongside new hip hop talent playing live, you can also hear DJs spinning grime, dubstep and crunk at this nomadic, occasional event.

For when you want to re-live the ‘90s

The ‘90s was a goldmine for classic hip hop and R&B jams, and this full-fat fun night at Camden’s Jazz Café (on every second Friday of the month) reminds us why. You might just see the ghosts of Biggie and Tupac here.

For when you want the hippest hip hop in town

The only time this crew take their finger off the pulse is to grab another killer record. As well as ace residents playing the most wide-eyed and freshest hip hop, Livin’ Proof also have a great pedigree for underground, trailblazing guests, having hosted Flatbush Zombies, DJ Khali and rabble-rousing rap god Danny Brown in the past.

For when you’re craving bass

Trap? What the hell is that, then? Since you ask, it’s a hybrid of Southern US hip hop, punchy beats, fast rhythms and bass, sometimes mixing in dubstep bits and other dancey genres. There’s a lot of chatter about the pros and cons of trap, and you can judge for yourself at nomadic club night Trap93, where there’s oodles of the stuff alongside traditional hip hop.

For when you’re feeling brainy

Another nugget from The Doctor’s Orders, this bi-monthly quiz at Shoreditch’s Book Club will frazzle those under-used brain cells as you battle it out to claim the Hip Hop Pub Quiz Champions’ Belt.