Since Megan Thee Stallion dropped "Good News," the album has been tearing up the charts. In its first full week after release, it hit the second spot on the Billboard 200 and became the most streamed album worldwide. While Megan's dominance is unquestionable, she's just the latest of a stream of Houston hip hop artists who are defining the genre's new directions. Looking for more Space City artists to add to your queue? Start with these:
DJ Screw
This innovative DJ is one of the architects of Houston's sound. His use of crossfades and slowed down beats, usually under 70 beats per minute, add a mellow and trippy vibe.
Bun B
UGK's "Int'l Players Anthem" is possibly one of the best hip hop tracks of all time. The success of this track and a subsequent album paved the way for a solo career for Bun B. He made guest appearances on a number of other albums, then released his first solo mix tape, Legends, in 2005. Other ventures include a hip hop coloring book and a regular gig teaching Hip Hop and Religion at Rice University.
Young Korea
While this South Korean rapper isn't well known in his adopted home of Houston, his track Trap Hour 2 hit the number two spot on Asia's K-HIPHOP Billboard. He seamlessly transitions from Korean to English, incorporating hard beats and clever word play. Young Korea's recorded output is sporadic, but he's active in Houston's music scene and owns a black beauty supply store on Westheimer.
Scarface
This rapper, wo got his start as one of the founders of the Geto Boys, is widely recognized as one of the top lyricists of all time. While he remained with the group through several albums, his fame soon eclipsed that of the other Geto Boys. He released a series of popular albums on his own. In recent years, he's turned his eye toward community service, most recently running for City Council.
AJ McQueen
When a shooting nearly killed AJ McQueen at age 15, the incident changed his life. He traveled to Houston from his native St. Louis, and there he found a passionate interest in music. With his strong anti-violence message, AJ McQueen has struggled to find acceptance with mainstream audiences. But, the artist, who is also a local activist and entrepreneur, continues to make new music until he finds success.
Houston's hip hop scene is so rich, a list of top billed acts and up and comers could go on for pages. Most of the artists here are also entrepreneurs and vital figures in the Houston community. Take some time to add the ones above to your favorites, then take a look around to see which established and new talent speaks to you.
Sources:
https://www.houstonpress.com/music/nine-houston-rappers-worth-following-in-2019-11116604
https://www.kulturevulturez.com/top-houston-rappers/
https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/texas/articles/top-5-hip-hop-artists-from-houston/
https://www.complex.com/music/2020/11/megan-thee-stallion-good-news-first-week-numbers