The new wave of music is here. This year rings in a new era of stars, and audiences deserve a new sound to get hip to. With this in mind, prominent entertainment companies and music professionals produced a list of the top rising stars to be recognized in 2021, highlighting some of the most talented artists from around the world. Each possess their own unique sound and wave to bring to the audiences. In alphabetical order, introduced are elevating names to get familiar with in 2021.
3ohBlack: Not enough can be said about DC’s burgeoning DMV scene and it’s complicated GoGo history. Would you believe that it captivated 10s of millions with its recent #MuteDC movement or spawn what could be the most viral street record of 2019? You’d say it’s “All Talk.” Tell this to DC’s 3ohBlack who is riding a wild wave from his viral hit “All Talk.” In a world subsequently filled with gimmicks and culture vultures, 3ohBlack keeps it real with his raw wordplay that hit like bullets to the chest from an AR in Street certified records like “Opp Block,” “Boom Boom Tick” and Chirp. It’s no wonder why his peers call him John Wick.
Considered to be the rap line of 2019 by Rolling Stone the street endorsed “All Talk” is already being compared to “Bad & Boujee” and Young M.A.’s infamous “Headphanie” while activating the rabid meme community on Twitter creating a whole host of scenarios ranging from Popeyes killing the chicken sandwich game to High School Football Teams claiming their division championship. The DC rapper has been hard at work and is set to release multiple records to keep his place in line and show the world that he is here to stay. IG: @3ohblack
Annamation: Entering the new year rebranded and renewed, Annamation is a female artist with a trap-soul sound to her. Vocals speak for themselves. This month, she dropped her newest hit “Solo” and plans on releasing several new projects early this year as well. The singer has it all: the image, the drive, and the talent. IG: @ _annamation_
Bags aka OG Bags: Bags is a Detroit westside rap artist known for his versatile ability. His music reflects on his life experiences and is packed with hard-hitting bars about the streets, drugs, and trap. Bags is definitely an artist you want to get familiar with. He has been through the good, been in the struggle, and is one of the last 80’s babies still standing strong. He is polished and ready. IG: @officialogbags313
Balistic Man: James Anthony Melendez, known professionally as Balistic Man, is an American hip hop artist from Buffalo, NY. After serving time in federal prison for drug related crimes he decided to turn his life around & focus on his passion for music. His versatile sound captures all vibes. “Wins, Rings & Trophies” is his newest single, which is a tribute song to the late Kobe Bryant. Motivating and bold, the song received positive feedback and recognition. This year is promising for the NY artist, as he has plenty of upcoming surprises. IG: @balisticmanmusic1
Black Dove: Akeem Eseosa Raji was born in Chicago, IL on January 31, 1987, but it is his Nigerian roots that make him such a diverse artist with a smooth and unique sound. Some of the influences that helped to shape and mold his sound are Afrobeats, Hip-Hop, Rap, and R&B – mixing various genres of music has shaped him to be one of the most interesting artist’s making his mark in the industry today. “I believe in pushing the boundaries of what may be traditional frequencies and fusing them with my own sound to allow me to remain true to my personal style.” In addition to many of his achievements, one milestone is his hit single with the legendary Fat Joe titled “Prodigy”. Check out this hot new record now and look out for Black Dove in 2021 as he’s coming heavy with heat! IG: @BlackDoveBrand
Cadillac Rah: Rising Brooklyn singer, song writer, and entertainer Cadillac Rah drops off a hot new single titled “Run It Up”. Rah hopes to use his music to gain notoriety, and also use his voice to touch his fans. Check out this dope joint now! IG: @bedstuyrah_ @cadillacrah
Captain Hood: Edejoro Emmanuel Ubietu, born and raised in Lagos State, Nigeria became known as Captain Hood after becoming a dance ambassador for Guinness Africa and his country Nigeria in 2009. He continued showcasing outstanding dance routines and great team work with his group of dancers called Streethood Dance Crew. They won the Season 2 of the biggest African dance competition titled Malta Guinness Street Dance Africa. His endless love for good music has brought out not only the best dance moves from him, but also led Emmanuel to recording his first song titled “Talking To You”, produced by one of the most popular music producers in Nigeria called Only1Sarz, during his internship for Music Production in 2014 before graduating. Only1Sarz has produced major hits for the likes of Reminisce, Drake, Wizkid, Dagrin and more outstanding artists. Check out his hot new single “Bobo Me” ft. Papii J now! IG: @ImCaptainHood
Cee1k: A rising talent from Queens, NY – who already shows a lot of promise, and off the release of just one single/video titled “Long Nights.” With quick comparisons to J.I. the Prince of NY, and Lil TJay, Cee1k looks to join the heights of those just mentioned, but to also make a lane for himself and show how he’s simply different from others. His blend of melodic cadences and an undeniable flow also puts him second to none. Cee has a lot stored in the vault and ready to unleash for the new year, including another single / video in the coming weeks to follow up his impressive debut “Long Nights.” He also has collaborations with Ted Park and Dread Woo in the tuck, so it won’t be long until Cee1k is considered one of NYC’s top new superstars. IG: @c.ee1k.
Chino Boogie: Chicago’s Chino Boogie’s Recent Drop “Reala“, directed by LB Visions is Now Out on YouTube, this song is from his upcoming Project titled “St. Patrick“ which is set to release February 28th, 2021 on all platforms! Keep an eye on Chino Boogie in 2021 as he’s quickly rising to the top! IG: @chinoboogie_
Chryst Young: Randie Graves aka “Chryst Young” is an American hip hop recording artist, actor & TV personality. Born In Hartford, CT moved to Brooklyn, NY at the age of 4 where he was raised and currently resides. The rising star recently released his single titled, “The Race” feat. Zoe Gawd. With a promising vision for his sound and future as an artist, Chryst Young is on his way to becoming one of the most influential artists to come out of Brooklyn. IG: @chrystyoung.official
D. Denzel: D. Denzel is a Brooklyn native who grew up in Toronto. Moving a lot Where you get to see the complexity, as well as the diversity of his lyrics picking up pieces from where he has been. With the background of his father, who was a Caribbean DJ in the late 80’s Reggae, Soca, Dancehall influenced his music in a rendition he calls Jngl music bringing the Caribbean elements as well as the hip hop and rap rawness. D. Denzel Is a freestyle artist, writer, actor, leader in the community with a message teaching the youth or fellow peers. Lead your own Way. LYOW is the acronym of his clothing line. D. Denzel continues to top Soundcloud charts and was featured in Source’s top 20 independent upcoming artists to look out for. He was also Top 10 on Reverb Nation in his city. The rising artist has been consistently bringing new material for the past 5 years exhibiting his talents through showcases, live performances, competitions and upcoming tours. Check out his new hit single “So Into You”. IG: @d.denzel38
Deezy Cascone: Rising artist Deezy Cascone returns with his latest single “Killa Killa”. Deezy Cascone kills beats and wack rappers, while touching on the negative influences in the game…This joint is straight barz, Deezy lays the beat to rest and solidifies himself as an emerging artist to watch in 2021. IG: @deezy_cascone
Denish: Denish is an upcoming hip hop artist from Boston, MA. The talented artist just dropped a hot new single titled “Been Up” feat. Dimillio. His new song reflects on him coming from nothing to having a vision, and telling people you’ve been up, meaning you know your worth and nothing can beat you down. “Been Up” is a story portraying a dream that turned into reality. Check out this dope joint now! IG: @lawrencedenish
Donnie B: Donnie B or “Donnie B the Promoter” is in his first year on the music scene and is not an amateur to the nightlife. Raised in Detroit, he moved to Atlanta, Ga. in 2008. Since then he has stacked a steady resume that ranges from event promotions, management, marketing and music. Donnie released his debut single “I Ain’t Playing” at the beginning of 2018 and since then has been growing his brand, Rare Breed Nation.
Atlanta’s Donnie B is a fresh new name to the rap scene, but the multifaceted business owner of Donnie B. Promotions has found what works for him as an artist. For his first offering to the world he drops off a freestyle visual to Tee Grizzley’s infectious banger “From The D To The A.” Donnie’s version directed by Spike Fe, features Detroit Artist Outlaw, and to tag along a bunch of his Atlanta/Detroit family join him in all the fun.
With Donnie B’s persistence, rapper Tee Grizzley joined him live on Instagram and publicly acknowledged that Donnie B’s latest single, “Draught Season” was his favorite song. Since gaining notoriety to the Detroit rap game by Tee Grizzley, Donnie B is constantly climbing the charts to create his own seat at the table. IG: @detroitdonnie_
Drama: Drama is an up and coming artist out of Selma, CA. He has been consistently putting out hit songs with his unique rough and rugged flow. Drama will be dropping two new dope projects soon so be on the lookout for him in 2021! IG: @i.am.drama
E Murda: This talent is a 22 year old up and coming artist out of the East Side of Stamford, CT. His music dives into struggle/motivational/gritty hip hop/rap. Adding on to many of his accolades, E Murda is also the owner of ‘Bornbaked Empire’ clothing line. The artist and entrepreneur will bless audiences this year with his new music. IG: @EMurda203
Eddy Mack: The LA – based R&B rising star recently released a new single with FatBoy SSE titled, “Juicy”. Nothing but positive feedback from the single was given, as this hit introduced a new sound to Eddy Mack’s collection. The Detroit native has new singles and other surprises in the works for 2021. From the start of his professional music career in 2018, Eddy Mack formed a loyal fanbase, making him one of the most loved and popular artists in his hometown. IG: @itseddymack
Gino Tha Pharaoh: He has toured dozens of cities, performing live from the west coast to the east coast. GinothaPharaoh always makes an impression. The release of his new single Ring had an interesting inspiration. “The way “Ring” came about is actually such a pun, to be honest,” Gino tells us. “I remember sitting down with myself like, I need to focus on making a song that just has that hype feel about it, being that I had been in a melancholy mood.” @ginothapharaoh
G Thugg – Bobby Fishscale: G Thugg and Bobby Fishscale reminisce on their adventures in the trap, delivering raw Florida flows over musical accompaniment. “Miss Da Trap” is a must listen to song of 2021! IG: @gthugg561 @bobbyfishscale
HiNix: As the new year kicked off to a rocky start and chaos hiding in every corner, it has become evident that the new generation has been coming out in full force, dominating the world for change in politics, sports, and MUSIC. One person quickly making a name for himself is a multi-talented recording artist, songwriter and content creator, HiNix. He is a powerful, emerging voice in music. Inspired by his peers while in the studio one day, he discovered an interest in MUSIC, and decided to start recording music full time. “His new single ‘DNA’ proves his talent will send him many opportunities as long as he stays focused and motivated” – Q Dot Davis,CEO Q Dot Davis Promotions. IG: @yoimnix
J Israel: “No Pressure” is the title track from The Real J Israel’s debut six song EP. The record is a collection of some previously released tracks, and some brand new. The single rolls on a chill, downtempo R&B beat. Over a mellow piano chord progression the singer reassures his lady that their night together will be all about her, and she calls the shots. The track has a classic Slow Jam vibe that begs for some mood lights and a bottle of pinot. J sings in low, soft and soulful tones as he convinces his love interest of his abilities with great lines like, “I can change up your mood ring. I can make up your lucid dream”. IG: @IamTheRealJIsrael
J.Monday: Florida raised & North Carolina educated, J.Monday is primed to become an artist to remember with his fluid musical versatility and a pen that creates lyrics that speak to his many facets. J.Monday calls on his upbringing and personal experiences as a supportive husband, strong father and devoted son to weave storied melodies that cover a multitude of subjects. From the smooth, vibing track touting his immense respect for his father (“Father Laws” 2020) to the twerk-worthy, hands-on-knees club banger (“Hey Now” 2021), he is able to effortlessly showcase his lyrical ability while bringing the audience along for a ride that won’t soon be forgotten.
With a formidable work ethic and a natural talent for story-telling, J.Monday is certainly creating his own lane as more than a singer, rapper or just another hip hop artist. He hopes to create a musical experience that resonates with many while still standing in his own truth. His latest Album “Path Less Traveled”, scheduled for release 1/29/21, exhibits his mixed brand of harmonious vocals with lyrically inspiring bars. Stay tuned to J.Monday. He’s just getting started and we’re excited to see what’s next. IG: @J.Monday9390
Jennaske: Jennaske, aka Ske, is a hip-hop emcee, television personality, and choreographer from Queens, New York. Known for her brash lyrical freestyles and humorous banter on social media, Jennake amassed a fanbase that spans over millions of adoring fans throughout the world. She has developed several viral skits on Instagram, Thriller, and YouTube. As a hip-hop dancer, she has worked with artists 50 Cent, Fetty Wap, Mr. Vegas, Desiigner, and Remy Ma. Her vibrant energy dancing translates to curating music as well.
With groundbreaking appearances as a cast member on Love & Hip Hop New York, Majorstage’s prestigious freestyle session, Fox television network appearances in New York, and multiple editorials done on her, Jennaske is showing the world her bright personality. She captured the attention of her hometown with her singles “Imma Be The One” and “Pull Up,” which shows her versatility and range with music. No doubt she’s the next big thing from Queens and New York overall! Currently, she has an abundance of music, content, and performances that she and her team are working on. In the meantime, to get a sense of Jennaske’s incredible wordplay, check out her latest EP ‘Nympho Waves’, which is available on all streaming platforms. “I’m imperfectly perfect, if that makes sense. I don’t need to be anybody else but my best version of me to succeed and I’m excited for the future.” – Jennaske IG: @jennaske
Kari J: Kari J is a singer/songwriter based in Atlanta, Ga. She is looking to make a name for herself in 2021! Music is her passion and Kari J is ready to share hers with the world. Check her out under “Kari J” on all platforms! IG: @karij_1
Kay Leon: Rising artist Kay Leon just dropped King of Diamondz 3 and is set to drop a hot new 5-7 song EP in Feb., the talent shared. Kay Leon is from Paterson, New Jersey, and has been in the game for about 2-3 years now. He just wants to give his fans a feeling they can’t find in any other artist, “Positivity”, fun like real positivity no downin’, just uplift and motivate to help people understand you don’t gotta be mad all day, try to be happy. Kay Leon uses his music to give light to the world, which is something we all need right now. IG: @KayLeon978
King Zay: King Zay an emerging artist out of Illinois with his Midwest sound and image he has somehow managed to work his way up the ladder pushing his hit Single “MY CITY” racking up over 100k views on YouTube independently IG: @MikeyWorldZay
Krillz: Krillz drops off a hot new single from his recently released project “From A Ball to it All Vol. 1”. Make sure you follow and subscribe to him on SoundCloud and YouTube. Look out for FABTIA Vol. 1 which will be dropping on every platform. Get familiar with Krillz as he’s here to stay! IG: @DATKIDD_KRILLZ
Kyro: Kyro is a West Coast artist born and raised in California. Kyro is no stranger to street life and spent some time in prison. After serving a lengthy prison sentence this artist is finally ready to let his music captivate people starting in 2021.Stay tuned in because he has his mind set and will not disappoint. IG: @kyrobethedopest
Levi Belle: Bloka Bloka Boyz and GrindHard Records artist Levi Belle drops off a hot new single titled “On Demand”. This joint is str8 heat! Make sure you get familiar with his name! IG: @levibellewrld
Lite, Hoffa, The General: Lite, lyricist straight out Brooklyn NY, right out of Flatbush. Brooklyn, also the Home of one of the greatest MCs of all time The Notorious B.I.G. Also the home of Jay-Z and many other artists. Tha General, lyricist coming from the Bronx NY out of Edenwald Houses, where defying the odds is a real thing. Hoffa, lyricist and older brother of Tha General also coming from the Bronx NY out of Edenwald Houses, which is also considered the 2nd largest housing Development in NYC. These artists use their backgrounds and life to bring to you the voice of the streets while delivering bars, and melodies on everything they touch. IG: @__hoffa__gme | @loyaltyovaroyalty0417 | @brightlightz29 | @g.m.entertainmentmusic
Lou Armstrong: The Mayor of Boston and CEO of Hitmakerz Music Group, Lou Armstrong needs no introduction. The rap superstar returns with more heat including 2 new hit singles “Fuck It Up” ft. Tory Lanez and his latest release, “Born Ready”. Check out both of these dope joints now!
IG: @louarmstronghm
Luie Victory: Here is my latest single release called “Victorioso” (which means victorious in Spanish). On this track I spit so much CRACK that Fat Joe the Don himself took notice and co-signed my skill by putting the single on the latest mixtape called Familia’ Presented By Fat Joe. One thing about myself & my music is that I’m not trying to be like any artist out, I’m on my Frank Sinatra time. I do things MY WAY. I’m something like a monopoly, that means they can’t compare me. #TrueWavee IG: @luie_victory
Michael Gabriel: Michael Gabriel drops off a hot new single reflecting on himself speaking from the heart about his narrow path and lessons he learned. This is truly inspirational music we can all use, especially right now. Make sure you keep an eye on him in 2021 as he’s quickly rising to the top! IG: @_michaelgabriel_
Mista Epik: Mista Epik aka EpikThot (/ˈepik/ /THôt/) born Michael Matthews, is a member of the group AudibleSol born in Connecticut but raised in Georgia & Indiana with summers in Illinois & Michigan. Writing short stories and poems started with creative writing classes. His desire to rap came later, influenced by classmates who were pursuing music careers. After several years of performing in the Bay Area & venues in Los Angeles, Epik is ready to tour other cities, clubs & arenas to gain more mainstream exposure. The music written by Epik is influenced by his ties to Chicago, Atlanta/Stone Mountain & Bay area. His style of music is one of fun, passion, uplifting and street for his fans and followers eventually brokering a partnership deal with a major label for distribution for AudibleSol featuring Clev & Epik. In the meantime, more music is being prepared covering a variety of topics and mood for the people and culture. Stay tuned & press play. IG: @MistaEpik
Mz. Sincere: Mz. Sincere was born in Chicago, IL and raised in Montgomery, Al. She has been in the rap game 8yrs.Though she has won numerous local and regional awards, she is looking to make a bigger name for herself in 2021. Her video and hit single “Give U What U Want” went viral on Facebook with over 2.9 million views. Mz.Sincere’s new single will be released on Valentine’s Day, entitled “One Night with the Queen”. Her new album is dropping this spring, it will be called “Rap Queen Reloaded”. IG: @1mzsincere
Norhan: The Egyptian-American R&B/Pop star makes her debut this year. Although based in Chicago, her sound as an artist is universal. Currently rising on TikTok, her fanbase is rising as rapidly as her growth as an emerging artist. Dropping mid-February, her debut single “IG: @norhanos_
Omen 44: Omen44 just released a hot new project titled “Hentai”. His new project is a global collective of Hip-Hop/Jazz/Trip-Hop based on New York Boom Bap featuring artists from New York to Tokyo and all around the world. Omen 44 is bringing you real hip hop you have never heard before! He is truly a multi-talented artist you definitely want to get familiar with! IG: @omenfourfour
OTThegoaTT: OTThegoaTT is back with a hot new track titled “SanTa”. His new single is a combination of a smooth melodic flow and clever bars. The light and buttery tone of the song captivates you and is heightened by bars such as “Your boyfriend a deadbeat like this one when I’m finished!” The Baltimore native heard the beat when looking for instrumentals on YouTube and came across the late A$3R Topic’s beats. He then knew he had to use it and try his best to blow this song all the way up in honor of A$3R! He’s clearly seeing some success with that goal as ‘SanTa’ was featured on DJ Drama’s Street Sounds Vol. 2!
Although he hails from Baltimore, he puts an emphasis on making music the whole world will find outstanding by being himself while still repping his city! He’s been writing for over 5 years, which explains the bar in the song “I been doing this for a while year 5”! However he just started to release his music in October of 2020. While not in the game for very long, OT has already dropped a Mixtape called ‘MasTer’ and along with his SoundCloud releases has accumulated over 50,000 streams respectively. He has another project in the works as well, be on the lookout for his new EP ‘Fun!’ Dropping on all platforms in February 2021! IG: @otthegoatt
Q Dot Davis: Smoother than silk, Q Dot Davis has stepped into 2021 knowing he is soon to be a household name. His energy can be felt immediately upon being in a room with him. It’s apparent he was made for entertainment in every way. Q Dot Davis is a rising star from Birmingham, Alabama that demands your attention. His charismatic flows and KING-like essence are reminiscent of southern moguls such as T.I. and Big Krit. He said that both Tip and Krit are definitely influences of his and that he was elated to even be compared to the two. He is humble, yet knows he is on the rise. “I am honored to make this list. It’s a blessing to be noticed for something I am passionate about, I plan to remain as humble as possible, but just know 2021 is MY year.” IG: @QDotDavis
Qnova: Qnova is a rising Atlanta based rapper, singer, and songwriter. Qnova is a ‘2020’ graduate of Ashford University earning her Bachelor of Arts Sociology in the College of Arts and Science and was awarded Magna Cum Laude. Her latest hit single, “Check Up,” was chosen to be featured on Snoop Dogg’s mixtapes, “The Return of DoggyStyle.” Qnova credentials include performing at the Gate Way Center Arena, which is co-owned by American rapper 2 Chainz. Qnova has performed at Atlanta festivals, “Sweet Auburn Festival,” & “Atlanta Hip-Hop Day.”
Recently, Qnova collaborated with legends, Chubb Rock & Frankie Beverly & Maze. Qnova has worked with the actor, director & artist Curtis Snow; known for reality films including “Snow On Tha Bluff.” Curtis Snow has also directed Qnova’s single, “Let’s Get Paid,” ft. the artist & engineer, Mike Beezy. Hip-Hop Weekly and Voyage Atlanta Magazines (including blogs) has highlighted Qnova’s ability in producing great music within their publications. Her latest single, “Check Up,” is a true get-money anthem. Check Up is a true hustler’s motivation to get to the check and keep them folks in check. Her lyrics are phenomenal and match the beat perfectly. IG: @im_qnova
Relo Hodari: Relo Hodari returns with more heat! The rising artist says “God works in mysterious ways and staying focused is the key to success”. Check out his dope new single “No Time” now! (Hosted by Gillie da Kid)
IG: @relohodari1120
Rene Bonét: Singer, Songwriter, Model & Actress, Rene Bonét is a Classic representation of nuance in R&B music. Drawing inspiration from artists like (Erykah Badu, Missy Elliott, Backyard Band and TLC), the DMV native made the move to Atlanta to explore her creativity. It is here that she was able to connect with Grammy Award winning sound engineer and producer, Alvin Speights, (Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Boys II Men, TLC and more). While under his tutelage she gained priceless knowledge in the studio that would help her with her future in the music and entertainment industry. Her vocal style and song arrangements are sweet and lustful pulling the listener in to hear the stories that she has gathered from her interactions with people from all over the world. Culturally she is diverse, so she is able to collect and connect the emotions of different genres of music making her own niche sound in the realm that is R&B. Currently, Rene has two new singles dropping on Valentine’s Day 2021, “One Way Ride”, and “Stay” so definitely stay tuned. @ReneBonet
Rookie2x: Rising Louisiana hip-hop artist Rookie2x is truly a one of a kind artist with his own unique style of music that will quickly captivate anyone’s attention. The multi-talented artist shows his true talent and versatility in his new single “Intro” off his latest album “Calm Before Tha Storm”. Rookie2x is ready to take over the hip hop game by storm. The rapper puts his heart into every lyric and bar he spits, using his music to convey inspirational messages of hope, while reflecting on his journey of life. IG: @Rookie2x
Saint Cassius: Saint Cassius is an old soul. It presents itself in his music and worldview. The artist born Khalil Walton is the product of a kaleidoscopic upbringing. His grandfather, a pioneering Black education administrator from Harlem, christened Khalil as “Cassius” based on the Julius Cesar character with a sly gift of gab. The formally trained pianist and drumline member added the other moniker in time. “We’re all sinners trying to become saints. I felt like if I made ‘Saint’ my name, I’d have to live up to it.”
In the centennial year of the Harlem Renaissance, Cassius aims to celebrate Black Excellence in the tradition of his ancestors. Recently acquiring real estate in Harlem, Saint Cassius is bucking the trends of gentrification. The newlywed hopes to raise his family in the classic section. “Brown Skin Girls” and “Hell to Harlem” merge history with the present, all through an artistic lens. “This is where we belong—where I belong.” As a veteran Black entrepreneur, Saint Cassius promotes circulating dollars and opportunities to those with respect for the culture.
Saint Cassius made big waves in music during the 2010s penning Bruno Mars’ debut single “Just the Way You Are” and contributing to J. Cole’s single “No Role Modelz”as a publisher. In the new decade, those waves will continue to rise, but with his music as the driving force. Good As Job is a story that pulls from the past, celebrates the journey, and finds new frontiers in sound, substance, and fly style. Jadakiss, Jim Jones and Mick Jenkins join Cassius on a project that became an introspective journey, made piece-by-piece over time. IG: @SaintCassius_
Shai Coke: The Detroit-based artist is known for his consistency in the music industry. In 2020 alone, he released multiple EPs and singles, making him a familiar face and name in the area. Shai Coke has recently completed music with Bandgang Masoe, Shittyboyz Baby Tron, and more. His album ‘Angel Grove: The Dark Dimension’ happens to be a favorite. This new year, listeners can expect new projects, especially surprise projects with well known artists. IG: @shaicoke
Sito: Rising artist Sito drops off a hot new single titled “Not a Joke” ft. Fat Joe off the #epdec4 called “Against All Odds”. Sito is definitely an artist you want to keep an eye on in 2021! Check out this dope new joint now! IG: @sitonation
Sun Down Charlie: Rising artist Sun Down Charlie links up with Cel One and Bossquach for his latest hit single “Double Up”. The artist shows his true talent and versatility in his latest releases. This joint is straight fiah! Keep an eye on Sun Down Charlie in 2021 as he’s coming heavy this year! IG: @sundowncharliemusic
Tez the Don: This Inkster, Michigan-based rapper is just 25, but already has years of practice under his belt. He’s been recording himself since he was 13, and started putting rhymes together well before that. His latest album ‘Mixtape of the Year’, released this past Christmas, consists of 12 back to back hits. Featured on major media outlets, Tez the Don is catching the eyes and ears of new audiences. IG: @tezthedon
Tre5ive: Tre5ive, a hot new artist from Omaha with connections to the LA music scene where he was born. He was discovered right in the middle of the fly over states and the heat Tre5ive brings through melodic sounds and intricate, spicy bars will keep you thirstier than the sun-drenched fields of the Midwest. His latest single, Next Life, was released earlier this month and we are looking forward to an upcoming song to be released by “The Game” who is pushing this unique sound and supporting this gem from the frontier. Get on the Tre5ive train early. He is sure to be on the hottest playlists of 2021. IG: @tre5iveofficial
Tribe Mafia: Tribe Mafia, an American hip-hop duo, composed of two talented individuals, Chinasa Broxton Okorocha and Carlos “Dashawn Daniels” Moore. Tribe Mafia is well-known for making public appearances at local, state, and international events for their creative, high-energy performances. Recently, the duo has been discovered on Sirius XM’s Shade 45 with DJ Love Dinero and Coach PR, SXSW, This Is 50 with DJ Thoro, Austin Texas most prominent radio station 102.3 The beat with Tino Cochino and Pabs. Tribe Mafia has also been seen on MTV for their hit song “Like Cola.” The rap duo was granted the opportunity to travel to South America in Sao Paolo, Brazil headlining with rap legend Akon with over 60,000 raging fans at the Estádio do Canindé Soccer Stadium. Tribe Mafia was awarded Austin’s Local Artist of the year in 2019 on Magic Video — A Live broadcasting local television show in Austin, Texas. March 20 will see Tribe Mafia release their highly anticipated debut dancehall album ‘It’s a Tribe Ting’. Musically, Tribe Mafia does well in letting you soak and simmer in their vocal harmonies. Naturally flowing between melodic hip-hop, Latin-trap and dancehall riddim it is safe to assume that Tribe Mafia is carefully gearing up to make one hell of a Grammy debut. IG: @Tribemafiamusic
UNORTHaDOX THE ORTHa: UNORTHaDOX THE ORTHa would be defined as an emcee, producer, energetic live performer & studio engineer. Hip Hop is his number one passion. He has also branched out into other genres of music Rock, R&B, Jazz etc. The ORTHa grew up in Jamaica, Queens N.Y.C. and is also The C.E.O. of the FISH.AND.BREAD INC. On The Block Ft. APEX.ZERO from London is one of his first releases! IG: @TheOrtha718
Veronica Cooper: Veronica Cooper continues to put Las Vegas on the map! She is an up and coming rapper with a twist. Starting as a writer for some of your favorite top 40 artists; she has merged to the front of the mic as a multi-genre artist. Hip Hop to EDM she doesn’t care about the boundaries of music and we are here for it. Her 2020 project “Sugar & Spice” sent two singles to the iTunes/apple music charts (Queens & The Proof is in the Pudding). Holding the #2 spot for over 3 weeks. Veronica who is signed to indie label Purple Barn Entertainment recently announced that she is working on a new project for 2021. “I am going to make whatever type of music comes from my heart and I’m grateful that the Coop Camp (Campers) have supported me thus far,” says the silver hair beauty herself. Veronica Cooperdrops her new single “Sorry Charlie” January 25th on all streaming services! IG: @ISeeyouVee
WingzPlayr: Rising Detroit artist WingzPlayr started off doing graphic design by drawing up logos for several major artists. His clients included Roscoe Dash, David Banner, Pusha Rod, Swizz Beatz, and even Wheezy Beats. “I’ve always tried to rap, and dropped a tape in 2014. From then on I dedicated myself to music.” – WingzPlayr Check out his hot new joint “Pave A Way” now! IG: @wingzplayr
Yahsetti: Yahsetti is a rising artist from Richmond, VA. currently living in Orlando, FL. He recently began making music 2 years ago and found himself writing to the instrumentals he was producing. Recently, he had the opportunity to collaborate with Slip N Slide artist Mike Smiff. Yahsetti says “it was an incredible experience, you would be surprised how much you could learn from a person just by observing”. Look out for his new EP dropping soon! IG: @Yahsetti
With a promising year ahead, independent artists will play a pivotal point in the advancement and elevation of music. While the world welcomes all genres, it’s safe to say hip hop, rap, and R&B currently have the stage. Keep an eye on these talented artists in 2021 as they continue to dominate the industry and reach new heights with their music careers.