As hip-hop celebrates 50 years of revolutionary culture, its original pioneers (OGs) are showing they still have what it takes. From selling out stages like Yankee Stadium to engaging in back-and-forth song battles – they’re making sure their legacy lives on.
Rising stars in rap are pushing boundaries and stretching what rap can be. From New York doomsayer Billy Woods to Detroit punchline addict Veeze, these artists bring fresh ideas into the genre.
1. Lil Yachty
Lil Yachty rose to prominence through a series of mixtape-length tributes to Midwest hip-hop and a debut album that resonated with misfits in 2023, becoming one of the biggest new faces in rap. Yet his unconventional take on rap was always reflective of who he was as an individual; rather it reflected his persona and willingness to push boundaries through experimentation with music that transcended conventionality – qualities which propelled his rise as one of 2023’s leading voices.
As it became evident through his release of Let’s Start Here, his psych rock concept album that breaks free of his bubblegum trap music to embrace guitar-centric vibes, Yachty began redefining himself as an artist of many facets. From producer with an eye for current trends to bar-spitter capable of trading bars with Drake – Yachty’s journey this year has been one of transformation.
Lil Uzi Vert and Young Thug helped lay the groundwork for this shift toward understanding hip-hop as not simply an art form but as an extension of who we are and an expression of ourselves through various mediums. He’s collaborated with artists such as Drake, 21 Savage, Travis Scott and DDG as well as exploring his musical range with rock through “Poland”. As his growth as a musician has been exponential.
With a new LP due out soon, he could soon embark on a massive transition that sees him abandon genre altogether and explore sounds which have long intrigued listeners.
2. YoungBoy Never Broke Again
Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, better known by his stage name YoungBoy Never Broke Again, is an American rapper from Baton Rouge, Louisiana who is best known for his melodic vocals and signature aggressive punch. Alongside his musical abilities, YoungBoy is also an active philanthropist; feeding the homeless in Baton Rouge as part of his community service efforts. In addition to these feats of talent he has released several mixtapes and studio albums such as AI YoungBoy Never Broke Again and Top.
He boasts a large fanbase and remains a highly controversial figure within the music industry, frequently facing accusations of racism and homophobia, yet deny such allegations. With hits that have charted on YouTube as high as over 100 songs in Billboard Hot 100 charts, he remains one of the highest-charting artists online.
YoungBoy Never Broke Again first signed with Atlantic Records in 2021 before later switching over to NBA Distribution by Motown Records. Since then he has released multiple mixtapes and studio albums, becoming one of America’s most streamed artists.
YoungBoy reached number 31 on the US Billboard Hot 100 with his single “Outside Today”, as well as his critically and commercially successful album Until Death Call My Name, both of which received praise. YoungBoy boasts a considerable social media following with frequent posts about him performing to Instagram users.
YoungBoy released his fifth studio album in 2022 entitled Colors to mixed reviews from critics; most considered it weaker than his previous releases; nonetheless it became commercially successful, peaking at number 5 on the US Billboard 200 chart with hits like “Bring the Hook” and “Know Like I Know”, intended as disses against fellow rappers King Von and NLE Choppa respectively.
3. Latto
Latto (formerly Mulatto) began her career as a viral rapper, but soon found success due to her unabashed lyrics and confident delivery, building her an enthusiastic following. Latto joined the XXL Freshman class in 2021 with the single “Big Energy,” then released her follow-up album 777 two years later; both earned her Grammy nominations as Best New Rap Artist as well as nominations at both Billboard Music Awards for Top Rap Female Artist respectively.
This week, Atlanta rapper ATL scored a career highlight with her collaboration with Jung Kook. Their dancefloor-friendly single “Seven” reached No. 1 on Billboard Hot 100; marking a first for hip-hop songs since 2023! Additionally, this achievement proves that hip hop remains relevant even as cross-genre collaborations become the norm.
Latto has proven her mettle in the male-dominated world of rap by not shying away from taking risks and embracing her feminine strengths in songs such as this drill record where she goes hard over an electronic beat that sounds like it came straight out of a Trap Mortal Kombat video game sample. It features her trademark bars and catchy bassline; an undeniable sign she should be taken seriously on the music scene.
Latto shows her mettle when competing against other female rap queens in this remix to Lola Brooke’s “Don’t Play With It,” trading verses that sound as though they’ve been written on dollar bills – each contributing her best material to make this track memorable.
Latto’s effortless delivery on this TikTok-exclusive record makes it so satisfying to listen to. She quickly takes down rivals over an infectious trap beat and creates an anthem fit for blasting from speakers while driving along.
4. Lil Uzi Vert
Lil Uzi Vert first gained notoriety in 2010 with a commercial mixtape called Luv Is Rage 2. Subsequently, Philadelphia-based rapper earned numerous Hot 100 hits via guest spots on Migos songs such as “Bad & Boujee,” as well as with chart-topping albums 2020’s Eternal Atake and 2023’s Pink Tape.
Uzi earned much acclaim for their unconventional style, yet refused to adhere to the conventions associated with major-label success. From the outset, they shunned responsibilities such as sparring with New York rap radio paterfamilias like Ebro or turning up five hours late for an XXL Freshmen cover shoot. Their refusal to compromise their strong sense of identity for convention or trend set them apart from other artists.
Uzi is widely respected in hip-hop because of his fast delivery and free-associative lyricism, making him sound like a machine gun. With his mix of gangsta-influenced braggadocio and futuristic sci-fi references that set him apart from Young Thug, Chief Keef, and A$AP Mob styles alike.
After releasing Pluto x Baby Pluto (2020) and two singles, Uzi spent three years teasing Eternal Atake, an album which quickly rose in legend when tragedy befell some of his emo-rap peers including Lil Peep and XXXTENTACION who both tragically passed away shortly before its release on June 30, 2019 and quickly shot to the top of both Billboard 200 charts as well as streaming charts across the board.
Uzi’s 26-track album features Travis Scott, Nicki Minaj, BABYMETAL, Snow Strippers and Bring Me The Horizon; its showcase of Uzi’s talents highlights how his refusal to conform to any genre boundaries has made him a powerful presence in music. Furthermore, it marks the first rap album to top the charts since Metro Boomin’s Heroes and Villains back in 2022.
5. Ice Spice
Ice Spice, best known by her stage name on TikTok, made headlines this year as the breakthrough rapper of 2023. She quickly rose to prominence via TikTok and was featured on TIME’s 100 Next list alongside such artists as Drake and Nicki Minaj. As soon as her release hit mainstream music scene she quickly earned multiple RIAA certifications including one Platinum single (Munch).
Ice’s debut EP Like…? showcases an impressive talent with plenty of room for growth. Inspired by New York drill icon Pop Smoke, Ice uses her breathy delivery and relatable lyrics to stand out on these tracks, along with her knack for crafting catchy hooks and selecting solid instrumental selections.
Though her rapping skills may appear overproduced at first, she manages to balance this aesthetic with an impressive flow and emotive poetry that strikes an impressive balance between production value and accessibility. She shines particularly on “Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2,” where she delivers an aggressive attack against critics. Together with Pink Panthress they blend their styles seamlessly, showing their mutual respect.
Ice Spice breaks from her previous releases’ gangster-themed themes for this track and sets out to prove she can ride any beat. Reminiscent of an early 2000s pop record, it creates an upbeat atmosphere while offsetting aggressive verses. One of Ice Spice’s most refreshing songs on her album and an indication of her potential as an all-round artist in her genre – especially since its lyrics don’t shy away from discussing dating and relationships like other songs from similar artists tend to do.