In an industry so saturated with quality music coming from every corner of the globe, it’s almost impossible to keep track of it all. New music is released daily and even the most dedicated rap fanatics can’t possibly listen to it all. Simply put, nobody has the time for that.
That is where we come in! Yes, here at RapTv we have taken it upon ourselves to scour hours upon hours of last year’s rap releases in search of the nicest sounds you just may have missed. These hidden gems mostly flew under the radar at the time of their release but are not to be slept on. All deserving of a double-take, join us as we explore our picks for the underrated songs and artists from last year that are worthy of a spot on your playlist.
“Atl Freestyle” (Brown Soul) – Doeman
Coming out in September of 2021 Houston Rapper Doeman’s second release of the year “Brown Soul” is an absolute sleeper. As the name suggests, the track “Atl freestyle” chronicles the rapper’s times in Atlanta, Georgia. Utilizing his distinctively laidback flow over an almost chopped and screwed type beat, Doeman creates a unique sound that fans of both Houston and Atlanta styles of rap can appreciate.
Accompanied by a music video a month later the track has become one of Doeman’s greatest successes, most certainly worthy of a listen if you haven’t already.
“Run + Ran” (Project X) – Ken Car$on
Flaunting a sound that is reminiscent of both Lil Uzi Vert and Juice Wrld, Ken Car$on is criminally underrated. His summer release entitled ‘Project X’ is a perfect showcase of how much the artist has grown since bursting onto the scene in 2020, and home to the standout track “Run + Ran”. Split into two distinctive halves, Car$on uses the song to explore the duality of his sound, much to our delight. Floating with ease on a simple but captivating beat, the snare heavy sound is instantaneously pleasing to the ear.
Fans of artists such as Lancy Foux, Pierre Bourne, and Unotheactivist should definitely put this one into their rotation.
“How I Came” (Hood Loner) – Li9
Creating what may be the hottest sound coming out of Mississippi in 2021, Li9 shows audiences exactly what he is capable of on his breakout project “Hood Loner”. His first release after signing to Motown Records, the 11-track tape is host to several listen-worthy tracks. Most notably the sixth song off the project “How I Came”.
Li9’s self-described “raw” sound feels like a mix of Lil Baby and Gunna, flowing on the beat like water, and sharing his pain with his listeners all while remaining boisterous.
“How I Came” also received a music video upon release further boosting the song’s success. If you enjoy the sounds of rappers like Lil Baby, Lil Durk, or Gunna, “How I Came” is a song you’ll appreciate in your playlist.
“Batman n Robin” (Single) & “Rodeo Dr.” (Single) – Showjoe
Another artist heavily influenced by Soundcloud era rap, Showjoe shows out on his two singles “Batman n Robin” and ‘Rodeo Dr.”
Both songs feature braggadocious lyrics over whimsical beats, in the most ear-pleasing fashion. The rapper emulates the fun and carefree feelings of 2016 Trippie Redd or Lil Uzi Vert perfectly, drawing heavily on those influences while still crafting his own unique style. Showjoe continues to impress audiences on his latest project “Kite” released in December of 2021.
At present, the rapper has a relatively small discography, so we eagerly anticipate what he will bring to the table in the new year. Listeners that have an appreciation for upbeat, Soundcloud era-style sounds should positively give these two records a spin.
“Backroom” (Single) – Mike Dimes
The latest and greatest release from up-and-coming artist Mike Dimes, “Backroom” Is the underdog track of the fall. Gritty, rambunctious, and unapologetic, “Backroom” is an entire party crammed into a single 2-and-a-half-minute track. With a sound that’s somewhere between Travis Scott and Suicide Boys, the track is heavy on both bass and abrasive lyrics.
Moving often as a youth due to being raised a military brat, Mike Dimes draws on sound styles from all across the United States in his music. This heavy-hitting trap track is a testament to Dime’s potential and is an excellent addition to any energetic rap/trap playlist.
So… What do you think?
Will you be listening to any of our hidden gems from 2021? Or do you have a track that you think flew under even our radar? Let us know how you feel in the comments!
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