BLOG: 5 Emerging Rappers You Need to Know
In an industry of the Kendrick Lamars and the Drakes, we have to remember that there are new artists crafting their skill and attempting to pave their way to the top. And while for many this success comes in the form of XXL Freshmen lists or exclusive cyphers, here is a little breakdown of 5 new artists I'm currently listening to that I think are about to blow up.
SOB x RBE
Bay Area rap alliance SOB x RBE are the next group to catch fire. Consisting of four members Slimmy B, DaBoii, Lul G, and Yhung T.O, the collective first hit the "mainstream" last year with their smash hit "Anti."
Ever since the breakout, the group was featured on Kendrick Lamar's Black Panther album and have now released a 2018 project titled GANGIN.
Through their beats, vocabulary and rhythm, SOB x RBE and their vintage Bay Area persona are the next phenom to come from the great state of California.
The group is currently on tour themselves and are even joining Post Malone and 21 Savage on tour this summer, where they will for sure turn some heads as an opening act.
Jay Critch
New Yorker Jay Critch is just one rapper signed to Rich the Kid's "Rich Forever" label, and he might just be the hottest of the group.
Making his name off his collaborations with Rich the Kid, Critch has taken full spotlight with 2018 single "Big 30" along with "Thousand Ways" (a song I've had in the rotation for the last couple weeks). It seems it's only a matter of time before he reaches the fame of his Rich Forever counterpart.
His versatility over tracks and his ability to deliver that Brooklyn sound through his raps continues to push New York's rap scene forward.
Lil Skies
Riding off the success of his previous year, Lil Skies continues to keep getting nods of approval in 2018, including from me.
His Life of a Dark Rose album with lead single "Red Roses" propelled him into the spotlight last year and he has rode the wave ever since.
Using his autotune to perfection like the many before him, his ability to melodize over trap beats gives off that Nav/Travis Scott/Lil Pump feel to many listeners.
Be sure to give his latest project a listen and be on the lookout for him within the next couple months.
Towkio
To some, Towkio may not be new. The Chicago rapper/singer has close ties with Windy City brother Chance the Rapper, but it seems it's finally his time to step into the forefront.
His new album WWW. just dropped and is proving his talents are off the charts. With features from SZA, SAVEMONEY acquaintance Vic Mensa, and Teddy Jackson, Towkio crafted a masterfully beautiful body of work.
Towkio stands out from the crowd with his ability to mix singing with rapping. His ability to blur lines between rap and R&B puts him in a league of his own.
Check out his latest project, I promise it won't let you down.
BlocBoy JB
Going viral instantly with his Drake-featured "Look Alive" single, Memphis rapper BlocBoy JB embodies the culture.
He's created his own dance move which is taking over 2018 along with his breakout hit.
He reminds me of a 2 Chainz/Young Dolph combination with the rawness and toughness in his voice, which is why I've clung to him (plus a Drake cosign helps).
For now BlocBoy JB is sitting in the king's chair, and we'll have to wait and see how he bounces off the success of "Look Alive."
