Aussie rappers have made considerable progress on the global stage thanks to heavyweights like Hilltop Hoods, Urthboy, 360, Bliss N Esso and more over the past decade or so. With more people paying attention to the diversity of Australian hip hop, we’ve found five artists who will shake things up this year and cement their name among the greats – get in on these legends early.
Oh and throw that cliche ‘Aussie Hip Hop’ sound you’ve got in your mind out the window, you will be pleasantly surprised by the variety on offer here.
Lee Monro x Ello C
Coming from the outer suburbs of Sydney, this duo give life to music through their raw, honest and ultimately real attitude. Combing Monro’s experience in the scene with Ello’s appreciation for hip hop, the two feed off one another to produce lyrical greatness to the backdrop of the older ‘boom-bap’ sound. Make sure to give 9 to 5 Drive a listen the next time you want to experience some true rap talent.
Blaq Carrie
Blag Carrie describes herself as a “religious music lover” and her infectious beats will entice you to become a follower. She’s previously won the 2013 Queensland Music Award for best Urban Song, and an Australian Independent award for her single ‘Let There Be Hope’, so you know that it isn’t too long before you see her name everywhere. Her latest release Lemme Ride is a testament to her talent with its soulful vocals and catchy beats.
S.Kape
S.Kape beautifully combines aussie hip-hop with the manic influences of jazz. S.Kape brings hip-hop backs to its roots by using it as a device to spark conversation – touching on educational, legal and religious systems. This intelligent approach allows you to engage with the music beyond a superficial level and really think about what you’re listening to. Give S&D a spin a try to find the meaning from this track.
Manu Crook$
Adopting an American-styled approach to his music, Manu Crook$ adds some spice to the Australian hip-hop scene. With a strong international feel to his music, Manu Crook$ will hit you with heavy drum and bass as his aggressive lyrics ride over the top of them. After a slew of underground hits, Manu Crook$ is prime to hit it big in 2017 and you definitely don’t want to miss out on the ride. Check out Assumptions, which is drowning in deep synth and trap beats.
Gill Bates
African-Australian hip-hop artist Gill Bates may be a relative newbie on the scene, but he’s already touring nationally, with an ever-growing fanbase that are fiercely loyal to him. Life has been nothing but surreal since first emerging onto the Australian music scene in early 2015, when he received major industry attention and public love for first single She Knows featuring Allday. Stay up to date and check out his appearance on TULIPS by Tigerilla; it’ll leave you with a great buzz.
If these artists are anything to go by then 2017 is shaping up to be a good year for Aussie rappers.