Debating Hip-Hop

A collection of friends, rappers and producers I believe in, and have agreed to join my team.

---

JID

Atlanta rapper JID turned his back on a football scholarship to pursue music, working for years to develop a quickly shifting lyrical style that stood out in a sea of sound-alike rappers. After time spent collaborating with the Spillage Village collective, JID signed a solo deal with J Cole’s label and produced a string of highly musical and powerfully complex albums, reaching a new wave of critical acclaim with 2018’s masterful DiCaprio 2. He rejoined Spillage Village for 2020’s Spilligion project, then collaborated with Imagine Dragons a year later. The Forever Story, JID’s acclaimed third studio album, arrived in 2022. “Half Doin Dope,” a collaborative single with Lil Yachty, appeared in 2023.

Cordae

Maryland-based rapper Cordae is praised for his thoughtful narratives and buzzing energy. Starting out as part of the short-lived YBN collective, Cordae first drew attention through the viral singles “My Name Is” and “Old N*ggas,” the first interpolating Eminem’s 1999 breakthrough hit and the second responding to J. Cole’s “1985.” These songs are shining examples of Cordae’s complex lyricism, versatile flows, and sharp technical ability, and he soon followed with original tracks like “Scotty Pippen” and “Kung Fu.” His talent caught the ear of legions of fans as well as earlier generations of rap superstardom. Along with public accolades from 50 Cent, big names like Gucci Mane and Wiz Khalifa showed up for guest spots on YBN: The Mixtape, Cordae’s collaborative 2018 release with YBN Almighty Jay and YBN Nahmir. His major breakthrough came the following year with his Grammy-nominated debut album, The Lost Boy, followed in 2022 by second studio LP From a Birds Eye View. Both albums climbed to the Top 20 of the Billboard chart. He continued charting with the 2023 single “Doomsday” (with Lyrical Lemonade and Juice WRLD).

Wale

The self-proclaimed “Ambassador of Rap for the Capital,” Wale (pronounced “wah-lay”) was able to transcend his status as local sensation and become a national rap contender using go-go-inspired hip-hop as the vehicle for his clever wordplay and music. Most of the major singles that ensued for him, however, were melodic slow jams spread across the tail-end of the 2000s and well into the late 2010s. These hits, such as “Lotus Flower Bomb” and “Bad,” supported albums that regularly landed near or at the top of the Billboard 200, including the chart-topping The Gifted (2013) and The Album About Nothing (2015). The proper full-length studio releases were supplemented with numerous mixtapes, featured appearances on hits by the likes of Waka Flocka Flame and Rick Ross, and starring roles on multiple volumes in Maybach’s Self Made compilation series. The rapper closed out the 2010s with Wow…That’s Crazy (2019), his fourth solo full-length release to enter the Top Ten of the Billboard 200.

Rich Brian

Indonesian rapper and Internet personality Rich Brian (born Brian Imanuel) captured mainstream attention in 2016 when he debuted as Rich Chigga with the viral hit “Dat $tick.” The track caught international eyes and ears after a reaction video was released to promote the song; it featured American rappers like Ghostface Killah, 21 Savage, Flatbush Zombies, and Desiigner, who reacted with mostly positive praise. Ironically wearing a pink polo and a fanny pack, Imanuel let his deep voice and cadence speak for itself, challenging preconceived notions about how Asian rappers could sound. Soon after, Imanuel signed with CXSHXNLY — home to fellow Asian artists like Dumbfoundead and Keith Ape — and continued to build his rap career. He was 17 at the time. Two full-length albums, 2018’s Amen and 2019’s The Sailor, followed, both making strong Top 50 entries on the Billboard charts. Brian kicked off the next decade with an EP, 1999, followed in 2021 by singles like “Sydney” and “New Tooth.”

Pi’erre Bourne

Pi’erre Bourne, born Jordan Timothy Jenks on November 19, 1993, is a multi-talented artist, producer, and songwriter whose innovative sound has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Hailing from New York City, Bourne’s journey into music began at an early age, honing his craft as a producer and developing a unique style that blends elements of hip-hop, trap, and experimental electronic music.

Bourne gained widespread recognition for his work with Playboi Carti, producing hits like “Magnolia” and “wokeuplikethis*.” His distinct production style, characterized by ethereal melodies, booming basslines, and intricate percussion, has earned him acclaim and accolades across the industry.

Beyond his production prowess, Pi’erre Bourne has also emerged as a dynamic solo artist, showcasing his versatility through his own releases. His debut project, “The Life of Pi’erre,” introduced listeners to his artistry, blending infectious hooks with introspective lyricism.

Continuously pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories, Bourne’s influence extends far beyond his own discography. His collaborations with some of the biggest names in hip-hop have solidified his position as a trailblazer in the genre, while his solo endeavors continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

With an unwavering commitment to innovation and a relentless work ethic, Pi’erre Bourne remains a visionary force in music, poised to shape the sound of tomorrow.

Skyzoo

Growing up just a block away from The Notorious B.I.G., watching him go from local corner boy to rap superstar, Skyzoo couldn’t help but dream big. The Brooklyn, NY native saw life in all of its “heaven and hell” juxtaposition, being from the infamous home of both Jay-Z and “Do The Right Thing”. He started rapping at age nine, writing about what he witnessed on his daily routines as a child. Those years of observation have turned into first person narratives that have labeled Skyzoo as a “new legend” and have led to his albums being critically acclaimed by fans and critics alike. His storytelling has been commended by all walks of literary life, from hip hop royalty to university professors and everyone in between.

An artist in his own right as well as a songwriter for others, he’s collaborated with a plethora of artists and producers, including the likes of Jill Scott, Just Blaze, Dr. Dre, Tyrese, Wale, Jadakiss, Black Thought, Illmind, John Legend, Raheem Devaughn, Talib Kweli, and Spike Lee, just to name a few. His most recent album, “Retropolitan”, a full length collaborative album with legendary producer Pete Rock, has been garnering praise and attention since word of its inception leaked. What stands out most in regards to all of Skyzoo’s accomplishments is how they’ve all come to fruition on account of his own work and will. As his slogan states: Lyrics Will Never Be The Same.

21 Lil Harold

Unfiltered and controversial, the freestyle Southern rap of 21 Lil Harold represents an attempt to step away from the crime and violence that surrounded him during his formative years in Atlanta, Georgia.

Born Harold Glenn in the Summerhill area of the city, his family originated from nearby Decatur on its east side. Glenn’s earliest memories of hip-hop were created by his late father, who placed speakers in the trunk of their car to blast out the likes of 8Ball & MJG, Master P, and Fiend. Inspired to rap by the beats of Metro Boomin, Glenn got his first big break when he appeared as Lil’ Harold on 21 Savage‘s 2015 track “Whoa.” The pair were good friends, and both had links to Atlanta’s 2100 Street Gang, a tie that also eventually led Glenn to place 21 from his outset.

From its 2017 inception, 21 Lil Harold was involved behind the scenes at Savage‘s Slaughter Gang Entertainment. In 2020, he struck out with Keep It 21, a Metro Boomin-produced EP which featured Real Recognize Rio and Young Nudy. In March 2021, his first large-scale project, Larry, benefited from the backing of Epic and Sony Music, given their association with Slaughter Gang. Titled in tribute to a mutual friend of Harold and Savage who lost his life in a 2011 shootout, each cut on the record was named after someone who knew him. Boosted by a June 2022 reissue and expanded edition, Larry had achieved over five million streams within 18 months of its initial release. Along the way, 21 Lil Harold issued the standalone single “Desperado” and guested on Chino Cappin’s “Ed Edd Eddy.” Released in November 2022, both “Robbin Season” and “Damn” were a taste of his next project, After the Curse, which appeared in January 2023.

WESTSIDE BOOGIE

Westside Boogie, born Anthony Tremaine Dixson on January 28, 1995, is a rising star in the realm of hip-hop, known for his raw lyricism, intricate wordplay, and captivating storytelling. Hailing from Compton, California, Boogie’s journey into music began as an outlet for self-expression and a means to navigate the challenges of his surroundings.

Drawing inspiration from his upbringing in Compton, Westside Boogie’s music serves as a reflection of his experiences, offering listeners a glimpse into the realities of life in the inner city. His honest and introspective lyricism delves into themes of resilience, struggle, and personal growth, resonating with audiences worldwide.

Boogie’s rise to prominence gained momentum with the release of his acclaimed mixtapes, including “Thirst 48” and “The Reach,” which showcased his lyrical prowess and garnered attention within the hip-hop community. His ability to seamlessly blend introspective storytelling with infectious beats earned him a dedicated following and critical acclaim.

In 2019, Westside Boogie signed with Shady Records, the label founded by hip-hop icon Eminem, further solidifying his status as one of rap’s most promising talents. His debut studio album, “Everything’s for Sale,” released in 2019, received widespread praise for its emotional depth and thought-provoking lyricism.

Continuing to push boundaries and challenge the status quo, Westside Boogie remains at the forefront of hip-hop’s evolution. With his unique blend of authenticity, lyricism, and charisma, he continues to captivate audiences and establish himself as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

Armani White

Rapper and singer Armani White makes what he calls “happy hood music.” He toiled underground for several years, releasing independent projects such as Keep in Touch (2019) before he broke through with the ebullient “Billie Eilish” (2022). The N.O.R.E.-sampling viral hit has led to a deal with Def Jam, White’s first placement on the Billboard Hot 100, and a follow-up single, “Diamond Dallas.” His second EP, Road to Casablanco, appeared in 2023.

Philadelphia native Armani White (born Enoch Armani Tolbert) knew during his childhood that he wanted to become a rapper and stuck to it. He started rhyming during early adolescence, and before high school clocked time in a studio. His first commercial recordings appeared during the latter half of the 2010s, and included “Public School,” the Sango collaboration “Casablanco Freestyle,” “Onederful,” “Stick Up,” and “Touché,” among other tracks. Some of these appeared on Keep in Touch, a 2019 EP dedicated to his father, who had died of prostate cancer. Following a handful of singles and assorted featured appearances, White offered his second EP, Things We Lost in the Fire, in 2021. “Billie Eilish,” a single featuring a sample of N.O.R.E.’s “Nothin’,” went viral the next year, and gathered even more steam after it was picked up by major-label Def Jam. White quickly returned with “Diamond Dallas,” issued that August, just before “Billie Eilish” debuted on the Billboard Hot 100. Singles with Denzel Curry and A$AP Ferg were released in 2023, and both appeared on the EP Road to Casablanco. He then appeared on a version of Macklemore’s “No Bad Days” and released “Shut Shit Down” with TroyBoi before issuing the solo single “BREATHE.”

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

Redveil

redveil is an emerging artist and producer known for his innovative approach to music. Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, redveil’s sonic palette is characterized by atmospheric beats, intricate melodies, and introspective lyricism.

Drawing inspiration from a wide range of musical influences, redveil’s sound defies easy categorization, blending elements of hip-hop, R&B, and experimental electronic music. His emotive storytelling and poetic lyricism offer listeners a glimpse into his inner thoughts and emotions, creating a deeply immersive listening experience.

redveil first gained attention with his debut project, “niagra,” which showcased his unique production style and introspective lyricism. Tracks like “c’est la vie” and “evermore” resonated with audiences, earning praise for their evocative storytelling and atmospheric soundscapes.

Since then, redveil has continued to captivate listeners with his boundary-pushing music, collaborating with artists across genres and pushing the boundaries of traditional songwriting. With each release, he further solidifies his reputation as one of music’s most exciting new talents.

With his soulful melodies, poignant lyricism, and genre-defying sound, redveil is poised to make a lasting impact on the music industry, captivating audiences and pushing the boundaries of creativity with each new project.

His latest album learn 2 swim released in 2022 and gained major traction in the hip-hop community. “pg baby” has been streamed over 30M times. He appeared on JPEG MAFIA and Danny Brown’s 2023 collab album SCARING THE HOES on the song “Kingdom Hearts Key”.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

Deante’ Hitchcock

Representing Riverdale, a small suburb of Atlanta, Deante’ Hitchcock is a proficient rapper and thoughtful songwriter whose recordings appeal to broad audiences without sacrificing his artistic impulse. Hitchcock’s flexibility is demonstrated through his studio efforts and freestyle verses, as well as his performances with a live band. After establishing himself with assorted video uploads and independent releases, Hitchcock entered his major-label phase, and has progressed with the albums Better (2020) and Once Upon a Time (2023) among a body of work that also includes a slew of singles, EPs, and other diversions.

Quadeca

Quadeca transitioned from a music career driven by his social media presence to a more defined and personal artistry. He started out making videos where he replicated the styles of various popular rappers, eventually parlaying this viral online content into attention for his own original music. He filled projects like 2016’s Nostalgia for the Now with sometimes nerdy but often technical flows, and lyrics full of social commentary and popular-culture references. He eventually replaced the trends and tropes of commercial rap that made up his earlier work with a sharpened focus on musicianship, melody, and atmospheric songwriting on his genre-bending 2022 album I Didn’t Mean to Haunt You.

Quadeca was born Benjamin Lasky in 2000, and he began uploading videos on his YouTube channel at age 12. Originally more interested in creating content about soccer and gaming, he eventually grew more excited about rapping and released his first album, Work in Progress, in 2015. His style was somewhat technical, and his music grew more complex as he prolifically released albums and mixtapes. Quadeca’s debut was followed by 2016 mixtape Nostalgia for the Now and 2017’s Bad Internet Rapper. Second studio album Out of Order also appeared in 2017, with guest features from Rob Curly, Peter Kuli, K.A.A.N., and others.

Around this time, Quadeca had established a series of videos where he rapped in the style of various famous rappers, and many of these videos accumulated millions of views. In 2018, he was involved in a feud with KSI, a rap contemporary of his. The two wrote diss tracks about each other, and Quadeca’s sharp and unflinching song “Insecure” became one of his most famous songs, streamed tens of millions of times. 2019 mixtape Voice Memos arrived as the teenage rapper reached new levels of fame and popularity. He followed the mixtape with the single “I Don’t Care” later that year. A few singles preceded 2021 album From Me to You; it found Quadeca delivering his most evolved performances to date and included guest appearances from IDK, PlayThatBoiZay, and Guapdad 4000.

Lasky’s musical evolution took a tremendous leap forward the next year on 2022’s I Didn’t Mean to Haunt You. The entirely self-produced album delivered on the nuanced and atmospheric sounds hinted at on earlier work but combined meticulous production with some of Quadeca’s most melody-centric songwriting to date. Stylistically, the album all but eschewed the hard beats and loud rap flows that Lasky was working with just one year earlier for softer textures and intricate arrangements.

The Scrapyard series was first announced on October 3, 2023, with SCRAPYARD I. The series was set to contain five separate packs, each containing two songs. A few weeks after the release of SCRAPYARD III, however, the fourth and fifth packs were canceled, with Quadeca citing “new developments.”

The Finale, aptly titled SCRAPYARD contains 15 tracks and features from artists brakence and Kevin Abstract, the former of whom made an appearance in SCRAPYARD I, the series’ debut.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

MAVI

20 year old rapper out of Washington D.C who’s also a juinor at Howard University studying neuroscience. MAVI recently released his latest project Let The Sun Talk in Oct. of 2019. Critically acclaimed by many people online, he seems to be next up and Earl Sweatshirt sees his potential too as he had MAVI feature on his latest project. In 2022, he released his debut album Laughing so Hard, it Hurts that recieved great reception from fans and crtics aswell.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

IDK

Maryland-based rapper IDK deals in direct and often nakedly autobiographical subject matter, rhyming about the pain of addiction and the complex world of drug dealing and substance abuse from firsthand experience. A string of mixtapes led up to releases like the 2019 studio album Is He Real? and its fully realized 2021 follow-up, USEE4YOURSELF. IDK continued to manage a new album each year, with Simple arriving in 2022 followed by F65 in 2023.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

Chris Patrick

Born and raised in East Orange, New Jersey, Chris Patrick, is a rapper on the rise in the Tri-State area. Patrick’s versatility as an artist leads you through a roller coaster of emotions. His lyricism is thought provoking with meaningful content that he prides himself on because he knows he can inspire and touch the masses. But he’ll also jump in his bag and give us an “All falls down” where he gracefully sings a record that’ll leave you singing right along with him word by word. Chris’s talent is an art that he has been practicing for years now.

“First time I started rapping was when I was  in the 6th grade and my mom used to take me to school and would point things out for me to rap about.” – Chris Patrick.

That was over 10 years ago and that start has led him to becoming the great lyricist and artist he is today. Chris has been co-signed by rappers Black Thought and J.I.D and has received recognition from media outlets such as Lyrical Lemonade and Daily Chiefers. His fan base is growing daily as we see more and more people acquiring about new music and drops. Chris draws his inspirations from his experiences in life.“The song’s I write are penned from my experiences in the world.” And you can see this become truth when he gives you records like “Slaves” where he raps on being a black man in today’s society and the struggles that come with it.  Ultimately what Chris wants to get out of giving the world great music is to gain sustainability and to impact the lives of his friends and family as well as all the people who are able to gain comfort and connections to him from his art. – xchrispatrick.com

Your Old Droog

Independent Brooklyn rapper Your Old Droog worked on his craft for years before sharing his first songs online in 2014. The MC’s raspy voice, effortless flow, and distinctively East Coast-style all merged with minimal available information about his background and led to speculation that Your Old Droog was actually an alter ego for rap legend Nas. The rapper eventually gave a series of interviews setting the record straight, and he went on from these early conspiracy theories to work with peers like Danny Brown and Heems on the 2017 mixtape Packs. He’s maintained a prolific output, putting out no less than eight full-lengths between 2019 and 2021, including two albums with Tha God Fahim and the autobiographical TIME. Two collaborations with Tha God Fahim, Tha Wolf on Wall St. and Tha YOD Fahim, both surfaced in 2021, as well as the solo albums TIME and Space Bar. Tha Wolf on Wall St 2: The American Dream, another release with Fahim, appeared in early 2022. A trio of celebrity-themed short releases (YOD Wave, Yod Stewart, and Yodney Dangerfield) appeared during the year, as well as the Madlib-produced single “The Return of Sasquatch.”

Jay Versace

Blaccmass

Blaccmass is a producer and mashup artist who gained popularity on YouTube via his unorthodox mashups, which often paired vocals from artists like Pop Smoke and Playboi Carti with more esoteric production from songs by the likes of Beethoven, Earth, Wind, and Fire, Usher, and original production from Blaccmass himself, although sometimes he does the opposite, placing pop vocals onto well-known hip-hop instrumentals. Blaccmass gained his first major beat placements with Zack Fox’s “IHY2LN” and “Marinate” 2-pack in December 2020. Since then he’s gone viral countless times for his mixes, especially his Mariah Carey and Yeat mix.

Nasaan

Son of late rapper Proof, Nasaan is taking after his father chasing the same dream. On Aug. 9th, 2019 he released his debut EP under Def Jam Records titled Kiss Of Karma featuring 5 songs. Most recent release was his 2024 single featuring Icewear Vezzo “Cullinan Gang”.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

---

J-S.A.N.D.

J-S.A.N.D. is a Louisiana-based artist known for his thought-provoking lyricism, hard-hitting production, and witty wordplay. He’s also a producer, graphic designer, director, & film editor. J-S.A.N.D.’s musical resume includes opening for artists such as Rico Nasty, Kash Doll, Partners N Crime, Saba, & Young Nudy, and doing graphic artwork for Audio Push. J-S.A.N.D. also has received many notable co-signs from legendary artists such as Schoolboy Q, Missy Elliot, and J.I.D., solidifying him as one of the most promising rising talents of his generation.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

Zateb

Zateb is an artist/producer from the Twin Cities. At age 21, he has self produced a few projects with his newest being Tranquility, an album about chasing after a state of peace throughout everything he has been through.

Spotify Link

---

Animist

Animist was born and raised in a small town in Oklahoma. They started writing as a coping mechanism but quickly fell in love with the art of music, and poetry. Their influences come from Milo, Earl Sweatshirt, and MF DOOM. Through each track they put out Animist delivers a personal insight to their emotions, experiences, and struggles while rapping on sampled instrumetnals. Right now, Animist only has two singles and a music video for “Too Much Love” under their belt which both came out in 2020, but it’s only the beginning for what the young artist has in store.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link, Twitter Link.

Gukie

Super passionate about music & business, Gukie is a writer, producer & amp; entrepreneur based in Calgary. Influenced by Hip-Hop, RnB, Trap, House, Afro beats & amp; Pop music from artists like Post Malone, Tory Lanez, Drake, Bryson Tiller, Anderson .Paak, Kaytranada, Pharrell, Travis Scott, H.E.R, Davido, Wiz Khalifa & amp; Kid Cudi.. etc. Involved in music since the age of 8 years old, Gukie believes he has something very unique style to offer.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

POETNT

Nigerian born rapper POETNT is a gritty, vibrant and an all round force of nature with rhymes. Residing in The North, where the only thing colder are his bars, the most potent MC seeks to dispose of the weak rappers that continues to plague the airwaves. Even just a small dose is more than enough to prove that he’s So Potent It Kills Everything.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

Sevan Mattar

Sevan Mattar is a Hip Hop artist based out of Calgary Alberta. Of Palestinian descent, Sevan has been making music since 11 years old and grew up listening to influences like Jay Z, Kanye West, Lil Wayne and Tupac to name a few. His music dives into mental health, various emotional struggles and other trials throughout his life while never shying away from displaying his love for lyricism. He’s gearing up to release his very first project under his real name.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

Sand

Antoine Sand is a 21 year old lyricist from Washington State. Growing up listening to hip-hop, R&B and soul, he is able to seamlessly switch between styles and cadences, leading to a distinct, soulful, and rich listening experience.

In 2020, he released his debut mixtape, Dead Petals, along with a myriad of feature performances and solo tracks. Central Sauce writes, “He conjures the image of a man whose pen is a true extension of himself, who has spent his 10,000 hours writing to the point where poetry is a part of him.”

His writing and rapping have been influenced by acts such as Kendrick Lamar, Earl Sweatshirt, Drake, and MIKE, while keeping a sense of self and originality that have helped define his music. His next project is slated to release in 2023. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter (@sand4pres) for updates and snippets.

                                                                                                            – Jeremy Arciniega

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

Pres

Pres is a rapper based out of the southwest suburbs of Chicago, Illinois looking to make waves in the world of hip-hop. Pres delivers all sub-genres of hip-hop while still spitting punchlines, quick flows, and storytelling.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

Geniio

The mysterious Hip-Hop artist from Central Florida released his debut mixtape I LOVE GENIIO in August of 2019. Instead of public appearances, Geniio would rather bask in the shadows of anonymity and let the music speak for itself. His musical influences include Kanye West, Travis Scott, Kendrick Lamar, and Lil Uzi Vert.

Spotify Link, Apple Music Link

Nick Enaigba

A local kid born & raised in The Bronx, NY trying to make his way into the underground hip hop scene. He has been creating music since the tender age of 15. Rapper, Producer & Engineer Nick Enaigbe’s style consist of different sound structures such as trap, gritty conscious bars, R&B with a little bit of pop influence. Biggest influences are Kanye West, Biggie, Wu-Tang, Eminem, Nas, The Beatles, Griselda

Spotify Link

Want to work with us?