Following the release of Barack Obama’s Favourite Music of 2024, which featured UK Rap tracks ‘BAND4BAND’ (by Central Cee and Lil Baby) and ‘Kehlani’ (by Jordan Adetunji), it’s clear that UK Rap is expanding its global influence. With the genre expanding internationally, emerging artists are making significant strides and the past two months have seen a series of fresh, innovative releases from rising talent.
One such artist is DC3, a 17 year old rapper from Northampton with Zimbabwean roots, currently attracting 55,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. His music often incorporates Christian themes, reflecting his spiritual journey and encouraging other young people to embrace their faith. In 2023, he caught the attention of Little Simz after she saw one of his freestyles and often engages with fans on Instagram and TikTok. His presence extends beyond social media, with appearances on other platforms such as Reprezent Radio’s ‘The Rap Room‘. His latest single, ‘Wanna Be’, released on 13 December, exemplifies his positive influence in the genre, urging listeners to pursue their dreams with perseverance and faith through melodic beats and introspective lyrics.
Another 17 year old to watch out for is Nino SLG. Born and raised in South London, his creativity and intelligence has garnered attention from both fans and industry figures, including Stormzy, who named him as an artist to watch. Nino’s music delves into themes such as mental health and the challenges of growing up in London, combining poetic lyricism with gospel influences to create a sound that aligns with “conscious rap”. His latest release ‘2am in Paris’, dropped on 12 December, continues his journey of reflective songwriting, focusing on themes of authenticity and self-made success.
East London’s Barney Artist also made waves with the release of his album ‘Strangers All Around’ on 17 December. Known for blending 90s Boom Bap Hip Hop with Jazz influences, Barney’s music often addresses personal and societal themes, while his smooth lyricism and genre-fusing style creates a unique sound. The album demonstrates his rhythmic mastery, with laid-back beats and hypnotic synths transporting the listener through the tracks.
Deema, a South London rapper and member of grime collective The Square, is embracing Dizzee Rascal’s call for innovation in grime through his third EP ‘DOG WITH A £’. He has carved out a distinct space within the UK music scene through his blend of grime with lo-fi beats and introspective lyrics. Smoothing out the raw energy of grime with minimalist production allows his lyrics to take centre stage within his soundscape. His verses move beyond stereotypical themes in grime and delve into emotional and philosophical topics, evident on ‘DOG WITH A £’ released in November.
SamRecks is another London-based rapper blending lo-fi with UK Rap, bringing his own innovative approach by fusing grime and lo-fi. Born in Nigeria and raised in South London, his sound combines drill’s syncopated rhythms and hard-hitting snares with lo-fi’s mellow production, resulting in a fresh blend of genres. He often explores the emotional intricacies of violence and hardship in his lyrics, as showcased in his November single ‘Relapse‘, where he delivers a vivid and authentic narrative.
NEW: @SamRecks delivers brand new bop “Relapse”
WATCH HERE: https://t.co/hiTsxT4HXT pic.twitter.com/PrwgkZJXFm
— GRM Daily (@GRMDAILY) November 18, 2024
Blanco, a South London artist and former member of drill collective Harlem Spartans, also blends elements of drill into varying genres, including with Brazilian influences. With over two million monthly listeners, he is a more established artist and continues to showcase his innovative approach to UK Rap with his new album ‘Gilberto’s Son’. His versatility and storytelling skills paired with his creative rhythmic patterns and melodies, all featured on the November record, set him apart from other voices in the drill scene.
In a male dominated genre, female voices are beginning to gain recognition, and one such voice is ENNY. Known for her unique blend of hip hop and soulful melodies, she has also cultivated over two million monthly listeners. Her introspective lyrics and smooth flow define her sound, and her latest release, ‘GREEN LIGHT’, a collaboration with Moses YooFee Trio, demonstrates her versatility and artistry.
In conclusion, the past two months have demonstrated the innovative potential within the UK Rap scene, with both emerging and established artists pushing the boundaries of the genre and bringing fresh perspectives. As the year ahead promises even more exciting music from both veterans and newcomers, including Central Cee’s new album and Brandon Nembhard’s new music, the global impact of UK Rap shows no signs of slowing down.
