Internet Archive has recently become home to what is claimed to be the world’s largest collection of rap mixtapes, courtesy of DatPiff, an audio platform.
In the preceding month, DatPiff initiated the process of transferring its extensive rap mixtape catalog, comprising over 366,420 items, to Internet Archive, as reported by Rolling Stone.
During the spring of 2023, speculations circulated about the potential shutdown of the DatPiff app and website. However, Rolling Stone clarifies that the platform faced a critical challenge when a hard drive crash jeopardized its archive. In response to this threat, DatPiff has been diligently moving its expansive collection to the secure environment of Internet Archive.
In light of these developments, DatPiff’s website now carries a message encouraging users to “EMBRACE THE NEXT GENERATION OF DATPIFF!” and emphasizes the platform’s evolution beyond its traditional website and app. The announcement states that while they are actively working on the next iteration of DatPiff, they have partnered with Archive.org to ensure continued accessibility to the library.
DatPiff gained prominence in the 2010s, serving as a significant platform for rap artists like Meek Mill and Lil Wayne to establish their presence. Now, the transfer to the Internet Archive opens up the opportunity for users to stream works from iconic artists such as MF DOOM, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and many more.
With this move, Internet Archive not only preserves a vast cultural legacy but also provides a new platform for users to explore and enjoy the extensive collection of rap mixtapes curated by DatPiff.
Check out the much of the archive here.
