With hip hop in the mainstream, the big names continue to get a lot of press. But, the genre is always spawning new talent. These are the rappers who we are most excited to watch in the coming year.
1. Morray
This North Carolina rapper caught our attention right away with his breakout high Quicksand. Effervescent and dance oriented, he's a fun and melodic new voice.
2. Armani Caesar
Listening to Armani is like taking a trip back to the sounds of Lil' Kim or early TLC. Her strong ear for rhythm and some wicked lyrics make us eager to hear what she'll do next.
3. Popp Hunna
This TikTok star took over the app with "Adderall," with its catchy intro and energetic sound. Deeper listening to his 2020 release Mud Baby indicate that this is an artist we can expect more from.
4. SSGKobe
The mellow melodic groove of "FNF" showcases the potential of this 17 year old rapper. He recently signed a deal with Field Trip Records, so we expect to see him all over in 2021.
5. Blxst
His 2020 project No Love Lost gained this newcomer many fans. Highly personal tracks covered topics like lost and heartbreak. He's partnered with Tyga, Dom Kennedy and Ty Dolla $ign, and we can't wait to see the results.
6. 42 Dugg
Last year, he was featured on Lil Baby's My Turn. This year, he's back with his own project to be released through Yo Gott's CMC and Lil Baby's 4PF.
7. CJ
Staten Island rapper rocketed to the top 20 with last year's "Whoopty." This year, he has a newly inked deal with Warner Records for an upcoming EP.
8. Erica Banks
She kicked on 2021 with TikTok's first dance challenge of the year. Now, the Dallas rapper is climbing the charts. Her quick, clever writing practically guarantees that she'll write the confidence-building turn-up anthem girls will be dancing to all summer.
9. NO1-NOAH
Summer Walker has signed her first artist to her label Ghetto Earth Records, which is distributed by Interscope. This emo-rapper/songwriter/producer established his talent with his 2018 EP Feeling in Color. We're excited to see what he does with a label behind him.
10. Symba
Atlantic Records has long been a home for pop artists, but they are rounding out their rap game with Symba, the newest artist to sign onto the label. He was featured on 2 Chainz single "Big Homie" last year. This year, we're looking forward to more of his own clever lyrics and flow.