Hip-hop music continues to be a leading genre throughout the world and together with a renaissance in R&B music in recent years, these two genres continue to impress. But behind the Drakes, Kendricks, Summers and SZAs, there is a whole crop of DIY independent artists on the rise and popping up daily with quality music that rivals their major-label counterparts. During this article series, take a deep dive into 10 new independent releases from the stars of tomorrow within hip-hop, R&B and related urban music genres.
Dex Channels – “Nirvana”
A gifted lyricist with a unique sound, Dex Channels has returned with his latest offering in the form of new single “Nirvana” produced by Billboard-charting producer BNYX (Ty Dolla $ign, Lil Uzi Vert, Yeat). The ‘80s-inspired production features a danceable rhythm and gorgeous guitar work, giving Dex the perfect backdrop for his dynamic cadence. The track is accompanied by an equally brilliant music video directed by Prswrkvisuals. After placements in big Spotify playlists such as Fresh Finds, Fresh Finds Hip-Hop and Gaming Lounge, the hype around Dex Channels is building with each release, and he clearly has a bright future ahead, with “Nirvana” providing a pivotal moment in his journey so far.
Mali Jo$e – “SUNSEEKER”
One of Australia’s most exciting young hip-hop artists, Mali Jo$e, is continuing his march towards the throne in 2022 after arriving on the scene back in 2019. Since then, he’s been going from strength to strength thanks to a series of impressive releases, and he has just unveiled his new EP, SUNSEEKER. The project features the phenomenal “INTERVENTIONS” alongside Mick Jenkins, as well as the outstanding new single and EP title track “SUNSEEKER” alongside UK rapper Len. With its vibey production and Mali and Len’s smooth rap flows, it’s one of the EP’s highlights and captures just why Mali is a name to watch in the hip-hop scene.
Austin Fox 狐 – SCORIAN VALLEY
Virginia rapper Austin Fox 狐 has returned with his brand-new album, SCORIAN VALLEY. Featuring a rugged boom-bap sound with some funky neo-jazz elements intertwined with lo-fi beats and Austin’s smooth vocals, the album is a must-hear and delves into issues surrounding betrayal that can occur with those closest to you when striving for success. The album’s focus track, “Relatives”, features rising UK rapper/producer Tony Bontana, who produced several tracks on the album. The track touches on self-alignment and learning to harness the energy within oneself and is reminiscent of artists such as MF DOOM.
Tay Toe – “Life of Blues”
Rapper Tay Toe brings integrity and heart to contemporary hip-hop. Already noting hundreds of thousands of streams across a handful of releases since arriving on the scene in 2019, the Los Angeles-born, Salt Lake City-based artist has just unveiled his new single, “Life of Blues”, which is an introduction to his upcoming album, Habits and Setbacks, due to be released on December 9th. Following a haunting piano part, juxtaposed by nostalgic electronic rhythms, the track highlights Tay Toe’s impressive lyricism and storytelling abilities as he opens up about addiction.
Feloneye – “Zoom”
Rising rapper Feloneye has returned with “Zoom”. The track follows previous single “Rockstar”, which was released earlier this year and received widespread acclaim. The Berlin-based rapper has been making his mark on the hip-hop scene since his debut last year and looks to break new ground with “Zoom”. One of his best and most assured releases to date, it features a hard-hitting, club-ready hip-hop beat produced by Or1gin, which is complemented by Feloneye’s infectious energy. The energy is matched in the track’s accompanying visuals directed by EN7OY Media Dubai Sili Ramic & Team.
Seaning – “Brainwaves”
Hailing from Australia, Seaning is a rapper, songwriter, videographer, producer and member of hip-hop collective MSON (Making Something Outta Nothing). Born in Alice Springs, Northern Territory and raised in Darwin, Seaning burst on the scene in 2019, and after a series of well-received releases, he has returned with his brand-new single, “Brainwaves”. Showcasing his undeniable talent as he raps over a melodic beat, the track captures Seaning at his best as he looks set to continue his ascent and proves he is one to watch.
Breon S.Y.N.D.E.L – “Double or Nothin”
NYC-based artist Breon S.Y.N.D.E.L has managed to craft his own unique sound that is a melting pot of different genres and influences. The rising star has had a successful few years after several notable releases, and he is seeking to end 2022 on a high with his latest release “Double or Nothin”. Featuring a fusion of hard-hitting beats, lush synths and melodic bars, the track is a feelgood vibe that is sure to make an impact with Breon’s fanbase, as well as help him to bring in new listeners.
Jay-D – “No Painkiller”
Jay-D brings together a mix of different sounds from rap and R&B to electro and pop, which makes for an interesting listen. His single “No Painkiller” showcases his unique sound, and the track has just been given a new lease of life with the release of a music video. Playful drums pierce through the mix, forming a formidable groove when paired with a bassline. The track is boosted further by soulful vocals during the infectious chorus, which are brimming with emotion, while Jay-D’s hard-hitting, straight-talking bars in the verses are just as impressive.
Ghostluvme – “Hydro”
Fresh on the heels of his recent project, Mixtape, rising Florida rapper Ghostluvme has dropped his new single, “Hydro”, produced by multi-platinum producer Brandon Finessin and taken from his latest project, Joyboy. “Hydro” is yet another impressive entry into Ghostluvme’s growing discography, and he continues to show he is one of hip-hop’s great new talents with a huge future ahead. With upcoming collabs lined up with megastars such as Future, Trippie Redd and Lil Uzi Vert, Ghostluvme will be one to watch over the coming months.
Jachym Borax – OSTENTATIOUS STRUGGLES WITH MONOGAMY
Jachym Borax is an eccentric yet highly detail-oriented rapper/producer, who burst on the scene earlier this year with his debut album, DRUG INDUCED PYSCHOSIS. Looking to keep the momentum rolling, Jachym has just unveiled his scintillating new album, OSTENTATIOUS STRUGGLES WITH MONOGAMY, which is led by new single, “THREE 6’0 B******”. Standing out with Jachym’s versatile rap flow, candid lyricism rooted in heartbreak and infectious hooks, the conceptual album starts off in the midst of a relationship and is a fascinating listen from start to finish.
