Lots of music listeners—even some hip-hop enthusiasts—are unfamiliar with the ever-evolving underground rap scene. With unique sounds that often influence mainstream rappers, underground artists stray away from the generic. If you find yourself listening to the same chart-toppers on repeat, consider these fresh talents with similar sounds to your favorite artists.
Ken Carson & OsamaSon
While Atlanta rapper Ken Carson started off in the underground, he has now accumulated over 10 million monthly listeners on spotify and is on track to being a major name in the rap game. Signed to Playboi Carti’s label Opium, Carson specializes in energetic rage beats and distorted production. If you seek similar beats but a more experimental and layered style, OsamaSon is definitely a name to check out. His track “Werkin,” or anything from his second studio album Flex Musik are great places to start.
Destroy Lonely & Hardrock
Also signed to Opium, Destroy Lonely is an innovator when it comes to atmospheric beats and ambient trap. His versatile style ranges from flexing wealth and success to more introspective reflections on love, elevated by his spacey sound and bouncy flow. While Hardrock’s delivery may be more laid-back, he takes a similar approach to production. New listeners should check out his album 1of1 or top song “Hardcore Drugs.”
Lil Tecca & Summrs
Lil Tecca and Summrs are both pioneers of the pluggnb sound, a subgenre that merges elements of trap with melodic R&B tones. While Tecca tends to craft catchier melodies appealing to both rap and pop listeners, Summrs takes a softer and more emotional approach. With smooth vocals and vulnerable lyrics, his music is sure to resonate with those looking for a chill listening experience. If you’re a fan of Tecca’s autotune-enhanced vocals and infectious 808 bass, explore Summrs’ discography to discover the depth of the pluggnb scene. His track “back 2 da basics” and EP What We Have are must-listens.
Lil Yachty & Duwap Kaine
Lil Yachty is known for his playful and carefree approach to music. With extensive production and songwriting credits for artists across genres, Yachty has cemented himself in the industry. Kaine holds similar influence in the underground scene and was co-signed by Yachty in 2017, with the two going on to release multiple tracks together. Even with distorted and busy beats, Kaine makes his voice the focal point of his tracks and retains its clarity. To see his stylistic choices in action, check out his tracks “I Lost” and “Tonight.”
XXXTENTATION & Jaydes
Late rapper XXXTENTACION, who tragically passed away in 2018, left a lasting mark on the hip-hop industry with his edgy emotional intensity. Blowing up on SoundCloud at 17 years old, X revolutionized genre blending between R&B, hip-hop, and emo rock. With a similar fusion of distinctive sounds and gloomy lyrics, Jaydes has recently sparked attention by landing the 100th spot on Pitchfork’s list of best albums of the 2020s. His melancholic tone is best highlighted in his album heartpacing and track “misery.”
