Introduction
The hip hop scene in the United States is constantly evolving as new talent emerges. Here is a look at some of the most promising up and coming rappers in US who are poised to break out and shape the future of rap music.
East Coast Rappers
Lil Tjay
Up and coming rapper Lil Tjay hails from the Bronx in New York City. At just 19 years old, he has quickly risen to prominence with his melodic delivery and vulnerable lyrics. Lil Tjay broke through in 2018 with his debut mixtape “Resume” and hit singles like “Brothers” and “Goat.” In 2019, his first studio album “True 2 Myself” peaked at #5 on the Billboard 200. With co-signs from fellow NYC rappers like Fivio Foreign, Lil Tjay seems primed to lead the next generation of New York street rappers.[^1]
Pop Smoke
Another rapper leading the charge for New York is Pop Smoke. Hailing from Brooklyn, Pop Smoke hit big in 2019 with his breakout smash “Welcome to the Party.” His gravelly voice and unique vocal inflections created a buzz in the industry. After releasing his debut mixtape “Meet the Woo” in 2019, Pop Smoke was tragically killed in February 2020 at age 20. However, posthumous releases like his album “Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon” have continued his meteoric rise. Songs like “For the Night” and “What You Know About Love” demonstrate his talent and potential that was sadly cut short.[^2]
Cordae
Up and coming rapper Cordae has been bringing lyrical depth back to the forefront. Hailing from Maryland, he burst onto the scene in 2018 under the name YBN Cordae, releasing remixes of popular songs like “Old N*s” and “My Name Is.” In 2019, he dropped his debut album “The Lost Boy” to critical acclaim. Singles like “Broke as F” and “RNP” showcased his advanced rhyme schemes and socio-political commentary. Still only 24 years old, Cordae continues to perfect his craft and prove he’s among the best young lyricists. Collaborations with legends like Eminem and Stevie Wonder further cement his skill.[^3]
West Coast Rappers
Blueface
Representing the West Coast is rapper Blueface, straight out of Los Angeles. His unique, off-beat flow immediately set him apart when he emerged in 2018. Songs like “Respect My Crypn” and “Thotiana” showcased his one-of-a-kind style and became viral hits. In 2019, he released his debut album “Find the Beat” with appearances from Lil Baby, DaBaby, and Jeremih. Signed to Cash Money West, Blueface has continued to garner co-signs from West Coast OGs like Snoop Dogg and YG. His hilarious personality also shines through in his music. Despite his unorthodox flow, Blueface keeps his ears to the streets and knows how to make infectious bangers.
Roddy Ricch
Up and coming rapper Roddy Ricch has been making major waves out of Compton, California. He got his start in 2018 with his breakthrough mixtape “Feed Tha Streets.” However, it was his 2019 debut album “Please Excuse Me For Being Antisocial” that vaulted him to stardom. Powered by the smash single “The Box,” the album debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200. Roddy Ricch then dominated the charts again in 2020, teaming up with DaBaby on the hit “Rockstar.” Still just 23 years old, his unique melodic style and honest lyrics have already separated him from the pack. Singles like “Late at Night” and “Start wit Me” featuring Gunna showcase his versatility as both a singer and rapper.[^4]
Female Rappers
Flo Milli
Up and coming female rapper Flo Milli hails from Mobile, Alabama and brings an infectious confidence reminiscent of hip hop icons like Lil Kim and Trina. She broke through in 2019 with her brash and empowering single “Beef FloMix.” In 2020, she released her debut mixtape “Ho, Why Is You Here?” led by tracks like “Weak” and “In The Party.” Flo Milli’s unapologetic lyrics and playful flow have garnered her co-signs from Missy Elliott and Cardi B. Signed to RCA Records, the 22 year old continues to gain momentum with every new release. Her fresh perspective and boss persona solidify her spot as a female rapper to watch.[^5]
Mulatto
Another promising female rapper is Mulatto, straight out of Atlanta, Georgia. Her career took off in 2016 when she won the reality TV show “The Rap Game” at just age 17. She signed to RCA Records and has been building her catalog ever since. In 2020, Mulatto released her EP “Big Latto” led by the breakout track “Bitch From Da Souf.” She followed that up weeks later with her debut album “Queen of Da Souf.” Both projects showcase her lightning-fast flow and ability to rap circles around the competition. With co-signs from Gucci Mane, 21 Savage, and TI, the 22 year old Mulatto seems destined to be the next big voice for women in Southern hip hop.[^6]
Male and Female Duos
Some of the most exciting new acts in rap are male and female duos who play off each other’s chemistry and contrasting styles.
Jack Harlow and Tierra Whack
In 2020, Kentucky native Jack Harlow has emerged as one of rap’s most promising newcomers. The 22 year old spits witty bars over smooth, melodic beats as displayed on his hit “What’s Poppin.” In 2021, he teamed up with Philly’s own Tierra Whack on the infectious track “Feel Alive.” Whack made waves in 2018 with her debut album “Whack World” full of quirky raps and visuals. Together, Harlow and Whack’s contrasting flows and electric energy make them a duo to watch.
Dreamville’s JID and Ari Lennox
Signed to J. Cole’s Dreamville Records, JID and Ari Lennox showcase the label’s knack for finding young talent. Atlanta’s JID made his introduction in 2017 with albums like “The Never Story” full of his head-spinning wordplay and soulful beats. In 2019, he teamed up with Washington DC’s neo-soul songstress Ari Lennox on the sensual duet “Broke.” Lennox exploded that year as well with her debut album “Shea Butter Baby.” Both only 29 years old, the duo’s vibey melodies and emotionally raw lyrics prove the Dreamville roster is still just getting started.
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Standout New Age Rappers
Finally, rap’s new generation also boasts several standout stars who are each unique in their own lane.
Lil Uzi Vert
Hailing from Philly, Lil Uzi Vert broke out in 2016 with his debut single “Money Longer.” His melodic rap style and punk rock aesthetics quickly garnered a cult following. After albums like “Luv is Rage 2” and “Eternal Atake”, the 27 year old has become one of today’s most influential rappers. His hits “XO Tour Llif3” and “Do What I Want” have inspired the sing-song styles of newcomers like Lil Tecca and Lil Tjay. After years of label disputes, Lil Uzi Vert now looks poised to drop his most ambitious material yet.
DaBaby
DaBaby has been one of the most rapidly rising rappers in recent memory. Hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina, his debut album “Baby On Baby” was released in 2019 to little fanfare. However, his follow up “Kirk” later that year made him a star on the back of hits like “Suge” and “BOP.” Known for his animated flows and confident persona, every new DaBaby drop has turned into an event. In 2020, the 29 year old continued his dominance, appearing on chart smashes like “Rockstar” with Roddy Ricch. With major co-signs from legends like Diddy and Snoop Dogg, DaBaby seems unstoppable.
Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion has broken through as the hottest female rapper today. Originally from Houston, she got her start releasing mixtapes like 2016’s “Rich Ratchet.” However, it was her 2018 “Tina Snow” project and cuts like “Big Ole Freak” that kicked her career into high gear. Since then, the 26 year old has dominated with bangers like “Hot Girl Summer”, “Savage”, and “WAP” with Cardi B. Blending raw lyrics with dexterous flows, Megan The Stallion has proven women can dominate just as hard as the fellas.
The Future is Bright
This new class of rappers provides just a glimpse into how vibrant hip hop remains today. As veterans like Jay-Z, Eminem, and Nas eventually pass the torch, the culture looks to be in good hands. The variety of styles and personalities emerging offers something for all rap fans. If the past decade is any indicator, the next generation of stars has limitless potential. The future is bright for up and coming rappers in the US.
Sources:
[^1]: Lil Tjay Bio: New York Rapper Looking to Lead NYC’s New School
[^2]: The Tragic Story of Pop Smoke, Brooklyn Rap’s Rising Star
[^3]: Is Cordae the New King of Conscious Rap?
[^4]: Roddy Ricch: The Rise of 2020’s Biggest Breakout Star
[^5]: Flo Milli Is Not Just a Viral Star. She’s Here to Win.
[^6]: New Female Rappers: 10 Rappers to Watch in 2020
