Hip-hop is a genre dominated and shaped by the youth, especially in our time of the internet and social media. Young rappers now have a platform to make a name for themselves without the traditional help of a major record label. New rappers are seemingly popping up every other week, so to help you recognize the one's that are worthwhile here are the seven rappers about to take over 2018 and beyond.
1. J.I.D.
Latest drop: The Never Story
Recently signed to J.Cole's Dreamville record company. J.I.D. (real name Destin Route) is certainly on the route to success. Just one of the of the many young talents emerging from Atlanta, J.I.D.'s bullet-quick delivery and creative wordplay shows that ATL has more to offer than the often criticized "mumble rap" the city has become linked to.
2. EarthGang
Latest drop: Rags- EP
EarthGang, made up of high school pals Johnny Venus and Doctur Dot, are frequent J.I.D. collaborators also recently signed to J.Cole's label. Also similar to J.I.D. in musical style, the duo hopes to continue the tradition of uber-popular rap pairs from Atlanta started by Outkast.
3.Cousin Stizz
Latest drop: One Night Only
Part of Boston's rising rap scene, Cousin Stizz is one of hip-hop's next big things. Stizz's bouncy delivery and talent for super-catchy hooks will surely take him to the top, and he is already backed by an extremely impressive discography.4. Hoodrich Pablo Juan
Latest drop: Designer Drugz 3
Pablo Juan is another ATL byproduct, getting his start with an Atlanta rap institution Migos. Recently signing with Gucci Mane's 1017 Record label, and having relationships with the biggest producers in the game HPJ will soon be a household trap name.
5. Noname
Latest drop: Telefone
Hailing from Chicago and a part of Chance the Rapper's Save Money crew, Noname is an artist to watch out for. Much like Chance, her serene yet quick delivery, and funny yet powerful rhymes make her a joy to listen to.
6. Jazz Cartier
Latest drop: Hotel Paranoia
Everyone knows Toronto rap due to the man, the myth, the legend, Mr. Aubrey "Drake" Graham, but Jazz Cartier makes a name for himself in and out of "The 6" without Drizzy and his OVO empire. Cartier's melodic signing and bombastic raps are a powerful combination that all can enjoy.
7. Playboi Carti
Latest drop: Playboi Carti
Yo, Carti is assuredly already out here, already achieving huge acclaim with his hit "Magnolia" and becoming a member of the collective A$AP Mob. Carti has limitless potential and is destined to be a star.