10 rising ATL rappers in 2013
Class is now in session and it's only right to give props to those who have proven to be diligent students in their craft.
In an era when the Internet can make pretty much anyone with a voice and a microphone an artist, it's become difficult to separate the real thing from someone looking for a quick buzz. Atlanta, in particular, is full of talent, but the music scene has become saturated with one hit wonders making turn up anthems and trap sing-a-longs. However, somewhere buried amid all of those names that are spamming your Facebook and Twitter pages for downloads there are some artists that are truly honing their craft, and might just become the new face of Atlanta music. Check out most of these acts at A3C this week.
So without further ado, here's a quick list of top picks from the ATL freshman class of 2013.
Scotty ATL: Hailing from Atlanta's Eastside, Scotty makes what he calls "timeless music" that combines feel good vibes with Southern dialect and the realism based on his life struggles - not to mention, he's been compared to the likes of Outkast, Goodie Mob, and T.I. On tracks like "Clarity," "After Rap," and "My Shoes," Scotty's influences are apparent. An artist with tremendous potential, Scotty is sure to become a household name, not only in Atlanta music but rap period. Check out his latest mixtapte, F.A.I.T.H. (Forever ATL In the Heart),.
Catch Scotty during A3C at the Leaders of the Next Cool show on Fri., Oct. 4, and again at 529 for the Five Points show on Sat., Oct. 5.
Chiiirp: Born and raised in Michigan, Chiiirp is an ATL transplant lacin' tracks with game from a female perspective. Multi-sided in her flow, Chiiirp is sure to deliver. She is an artist who "makes music for the masses and is not to be grouped." If you're looking for something to vibe out to with undertones of Three 6 Mafia and other Southern gems, check out her latest mixtape, Killa.
Curtis Williams: The frontman for the city's rap collective Two9, Curtis Williams, recently released his highly anticipated Half Forgotten Daydreams mixtape. On his most notable tracks "Face It" and "Philmore Slim," Williams flexes his lyrical skills and claims the title as the "Illest in the City" while blowing clouds of smoke at the competition. His distinctive, charismatic flow has surely set the young emcee apart from other rappers coming out of Atlanta.
Migos: Reppin' the city's Northside by way of Athens, the Migos finessed their way into the music scene with the release of their latest mixtape, YRN. Honing tracks like "Versace," "Hannah Montana," and "Rich than Famous," the trio dropped what some are calling a trap classic and arguably one of the best mixtapes of the summer. With confidence and personality, the Migos channel hood mannerisms and trap ethics into every track. Check out YRN at livemixtapes.com.
Miloh Smith: Few artists possess the ability to sing and rap, and can actually pull off both. Shouted by some as the next Lauryn Hill, or maybe even the female Drake, Miloh Smith spits bars with an edgy tone and smoothes them out with her husky melodies. Smith's versatility and creative drive are sure to put her in a league of her own in the city's music scene. Her most notable tracks are "C-Murder," "Ounces," "Baby Miloh," and "French." Smith has collabed with the likes of Scotty, Two9, Rome Fortune, and Money Makin' Nique. Her debut project Suite 404 is innovative and definitely worth a listen.
ForteBowie: With an array of influences like Sade, Phil Collins, Sting, and Outkast, ForteBowie has created a sound that is truly fresh and unique. His deep appreciation for the 90's is influential in his work as well. Honing in his skills as a singer, songwriter, rapper and producer, ForteBowie is a true artist. He recently released a deluxe version of Vice Haus EP, which featured the standout track "Gucci Mayne."
Sy Ari Da Kid: Born in the Bronx and raised in Atlanta, Sy Ari Da Kid is a true lyricist. With 11 recurring rap battle wins on Hot 107.9, Sy has definitely proven that he has what it takes to be one of the best. He has worked with artists such as Travis Porter, Cyhi Da Prynce, Future, Waka Flocka Flame, Gucci Mane, Lil Niqo, Spliff Star, and Akon. Sy prides himself in his dedication and longevity and plans to release his thirteenth mixtape, The Ultrasound 2: The Birth, soon.
Rome Fortune: Although heavily slept on, Rome Fortune's Beautiful Pimp was received well throughout the city. Not sure whether he's prepping fans for another dope project just yet but Fortune recently released a visual for the track "Missed Calls."
EarthGang: Though the group has released three albums, EarthGang remains one of the city's best kept secrets. The hip-hop duo made up of Johnny V. and Doctur Dot has been compared to Camp Lo, Outkast, The Cool Kids and other "different" artists of the like. EarthGang's latest project Shallow Graves for Toys features standout tracks like "Ultra Rare," "No Peace," and "UFOs." Give it a listen at http://earthgang.bandcamp.com/album/shallow-graves-for-toys.
Tez McClain: Coming from the Southside, Tez McClain has undeniable lyrical talent that often goes overlooked in the city. Described by some as a mixture of Big K.R.I.T. and T.I., Tez McClain's mainstream props are long overdue. On tracks like "Art vs. Hustle," Tez is brutally honest about the lack of lyrical content for which the South has been heavily scrutinized. Check out his latest release "Showtime" featuring Houston legend Scarface. Also, be on the lookout for his upcoming project Free Lunch: My Last Tape.