Since 2007, XXL Magazine have been showcasing a list of ten hip-hop artists that they believe are the best newcomers on the scene. Since its inception, the list has become a huge talking point for each year it is announced. Even more so since the year 2012 when they opened the 10th spot of each year to general public voting. Various rappers have seen themselves land on the list due to this vote, including the likes of Iggy Azalea, Lil Yachty, XXXTentacion, Blueface and 24kGoldn.
It is with this year that XXL has continued to show appreciation for UK artists with a handful of rappers in the voting pool from across the nation. Here is who you can vote for from the UK:
Aitch – this Manchester MC has had a meteoric rise to fame with a string of singles in 2018-19. Hits such as ‘Rain’ featuring AJ Tracey and Russ’ ‘Keisha & Becky (Remix)’ took his voice straight to club dancefloors. His rise in popularity is only set to continue with co-signs from the likes of Stormzy, Virgil Abloh and Charlie Sloth.
Lancey Foux – this East London artist built up a cult following with his Americanised and futuristic take on UK rap. With releases dating back as early as 2015 alongside collaborations with veteran artists Skepta and Chip, this comes as some long overdue recognition for this ethereal artist whose latest project ‘FIRST DEGREE’ arrived this month.
Pa Salieu – hailing from Coventry, this unique rapper has created a foundation for himself in a short amount of time. With the hit debut single ‘Frontline’ releasing only last year, Pa’s journey has been a rapid one. His style takes from multiple UK based genres to create a fresh sound as displayed on his debut album out last year on Warner Music titled ‘Send Them to Coventry’.
Slowthai – hailing from Northampton, the punk-esque style of Slowthai’s music has already landed him in a few tabloids. His music takes a political charge whilst also touching on subjects such as mental illness, which has led many fans to connect with his music. The sophomore record ‘TYRON’ only added more hype to his name, with his own lane fully carved.
These four UK artists are all available to vote for on the XXL Freshman vote until 4th April. Hopefully at least one of them can join the likes of Stefflon Don as a UK Freshman, opening them up to global opportunity and audience.
