It’s time to spin the records of our hip-hop and rap recommendations. These songs are at the cutting-edge of the genre from some of the globe’s best underground acts, so pay attention kids, you’re about to learn something.
Kicking off our first Hip-Hop Recs round-up of the year is Geno Five, a rising hip-hop artist from New Jersey, who showcases his versatility in the global music scene with the single ‘on your own’. Combining raw, gritty rap bars with smooth, infectious melodies, Geno Five crafts a sound that spans R&B to lyrical hip-hop. His emotive delivery draws comparisons to artists like Mick Jenkins, Andre 3000, and Ludacris. Known for his ability to blend classic lyrical rap traditions with contemporary hip-hop hooks, Geno Five’s music is bold, daring, and oozing with originality. From his debut The Feels Lp to the Point Five EP, he has traversed a vast spectrum of emotions, sharing his personal journey with listeners in a relatable and soulful manner. ‘on your own’ is just the latest step in his expansive career.
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Next up is an empowering all-women collaboration with Brewster Bee at the helm. Featuring ELLA EX and Julisa, ‘Supernatual’ is an amplification of powerful energy and the trio’s vibrant essence. The chorus vocal, recorded in a mere 20 minutes during the first session with producer ELIA EX, sets the magical tone of the song. Collaborating with rap artist Julisa for the remaining lyrics adds depth and diversity to the track. After a transformative period following a major back injury and pioneering surgery, Brewster Bee finds renewed vigor, marking this release as her comeback. The track’s resonance is already attracting interest from music supervisors, signaling promising opportunities and making ‘Supernatural’ a profoundly special and significant chapter.
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Born during a creative peak in 2019, ‘Lovesick’ from KJ(!) reflects that significant time in the artist’s life. A quick, heartfelt creation, the song reflects personal growth, capturing the essence of a complex relationship. Stemming from a moment of petulance, the lyrics delve into the vulnerability of confessing love first, inspired by a personal experience that fueled conflicting emotions. The Drake-like chorus and verses infused with Andre 3000’s influence create a dynamic blend. With multiple re-recordings over the years, ‘Lovesick’ mirrors KJ(!)’s dedication to refining his artistic vision, delivering a version that authentically captures the essence he always envisioned.
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Innovative duo Sorg & Napoleon Maddox blend electronic beats with captivating live vocal performances in their latest single ‘If You’. Hailing from Besançon, France, Sorg, the producer and instrumentalist, draws inspiration from jazz, funk, and soul, creating intricate rhythms and hypnotic melodies. Napoleon Maddox, the Cincinnati-born vocalist and lyricist, delves into themes of identity and politics with a powerful flow and stage presence. Celebrating a decade of collaboration, ‘If You’ explores redemption through humility and empathy. Known for thought-provoking art addressing social issues, Sorg & Napoleon Maddox’s mesmerizing live performances showcase their ability to create a high-energy, immersive experience.
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Sudanese-American hip-hop recording artist G-SALIH delves into introspection with his single ‘Hindsight’. A musical journey reflecting on personal and musical evolution, the track is part of his project GIHAD. The rapper’s passion for music ignited at 14-years-old, using it as a form of self-understanding and therapy. With a burgeoning career, he has released five singles, gaining significant radio play and amassing a global fanbase of over 20,000 listeners. ‘Hindsight’ captures the quintessence of his life’s reflections, accompanied by poignant lyrics, melodies, and an impressive choir, making it a standout on the wider GIHAD 2 project.
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J.Swave is a UK Rap artist with Nigerian roots who brings his diverse background to the forefront with the single ‘This Is My Year’. With a track record of enticing a growing audience, the rapper gained initial popularity with his debut mixtape Catch the Swave, which garnered significant streams. His debut III Styles EP, achieved over 50,000 streams in less than a month, showcasing his rapid ascent in the music scene. J.Swave’s melodic twist in rhythm, layered vocals, and unorthodox flow set him apart, creating a warm and captivating sound. Deeply connected to the community, this artist’s music is not only relatable but also a powerful expression of his skills as both a rapper and vocalist.
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M3RCII’s single ‘Pain’ serves as a poignant reflection on the artist’s experiences in 2023, capturing a period of personal challenges and growth. Taking a break from music to focus on life, the song encapsulates the struggles and pain endured during this hiatus. Through a subtle yet emotive vibe, M3RCII communicates a powerful narrative of resilience, drawing listeners into the shared experiences of overcoming adversity. The track becomes a sonic expression of introspection, delivering a raw and authentic portrayal of life’s challenges and the strength required to navigate through them.
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Spencer Bonds, known as “The Lizard King” in the underground scene, unleashes his musical prowess in the single ‘Around The Way’, featuring Seth Lorenzo. With a hunger to connect with the earth and make his mark, Spencer draws inspiration from his own production and the legacy of Jim Morrison. This post-apocalyptic pop piece is a unique blend of ballads and rebellious pop, delivering poetic confessions of youth and self-endeavors. Spencer Bonds breathes life into the underground with an electric energy that pays homage to his influences while forging his own rebellious path. The Lizard King is undeniably alive in this compelling musical journey.
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PURPLE MELON 