Our Generation Music presents our 2024 “Artists To Watch” list. Looking to make a splash in the new year, here are THE voices you need to keep tabs on in ’24. (Arranged in alphabetical order)
Let us know who else we should watch out for this year!
Words by Jon Barlas, Aidan Werder, John Cotter
ANYCIA
Ever since catching fire online in early 2023 with her minute-long unofficial breakout song “So What,” ANYCIA has transformed before our eyes from a cool-kid curiosity into one of the most promising new faces of the year. With the effortless nonchalant swag of Veeze or Ice Spice — combined with the down-to-earth, rough-around-the-edges appeal of Sexyy Red — Atlanta native ANCYIA is the embodiment of what is cool in 2023. Her low register voice, understated cadence (sometimes incorrectly labelled as “offbeat”), and magnetically matter-of-fact attitude are refreshing and uniquely captivating – wrapped in the rare unisex appeal that stars are made of. ANYCIA capitalized on her virality throughout the year with singles like “BRB”, Karrahbooo collab “Splash Brothers”, and widely circulated appearances on On the Radar and From the Block.
In November, she released her first official project EXTRA, more than doubling the size of her limited catalog with tracks like “Drop Top,” “Bid Body” and “Homewrecker.” As a result, she’s landed on the front desk of every record label, the top of “Hot New Artist” lists everywhere, joined Veeze on his sold out Ganger Tour, and caught the attention of some of the biggest names imaginable including Drake, J Cole, Pharrell, and Kevin Durant. There’s no doubt Big Nene is ready for the big time in 2024. — Aidan Werder
BASHFORTHEWORLD
Operating in the shadows for years, in a sea of mysterious personas Bashfortheworld might just take the cake. With only a handful of releases throughout the year and rarely being seen in public or even on camera, somehow Bash’s profile has never been higher. Over the years he’s built a loyal cult following addicted to his unique sound defined by slick-talking bars, heavily Texas-infused production, and his refreshing perspective as a suave Mexican-American embroiled in player ways – and it seems like the general public’s taste is catching up to his forward thinking style with the rise of more unorthodox flow patterns.
After kicking off the year with an almost entirely slowed-down project, Life on the Rocks, he kicked into another gear with “Plata O Plomo?” and absolutely knocked it out of the park with “Mundo” – easily one of the most underrated singles of the year. His third and final single of the year “Diabla” came earlier this month, and with it the promise of a new tape “soon.” Between his compelling original style, fresh Southern feel, and steadfast commitment to his own way of doing things, 2024 may finally be the year the mainstream is ready for Bashfortheworld. — Aidan Werder
Che
Of the digicore-influenced rappers that rose within the SoundCloud 2.0 wave, che has had an “agenda” since the start of his career. As one of the underground’s more seasoned emcees — coming up with the likes of Yung Fazo, Tana, Slump6s and more — his inimitable, electro-plugg sound is surely ahead of his time. The Atlanta croon-rapper has topped over 360,000 monthly listeners on Spotify with only a handful of years under his belt, as 2023 albums in Closed Captions and Crueger proved to be his most mature and potent projects yet. A name change in 2022 was the start of a new era, as 2024 will further solidify Che’s dormant dominance in the scene with more music yet to be revealed.
D4VD
A record-breaking world tour with SZA, viral hit after viral hit, d4vd turned making songs in his sister’s closet into a generational breakout in 2023. If the year of four (2024) isn’t telling of the Houston-born singer’s future ambitions — and status as music’s next alt-superstar — his 40 million-plus listeners have all the ammunition needed for a “d4vdverse” takeover. Whether it was “Romantic Homicide” that caught your ear, or debut projects like Petals To Thorns or The Lost Petals, his sound remains timeless and nostalgic — describing it as a “forgotten sound” in our interview earlier this year. Emotional, everlasting and enigmatic, d4vd’s sonic petals cease to wither as time passes on. He’ll be on every list imaginable until lists are no longer commonplace to create, as the teen phenom will continue to turn heads for many… MANY years to come.
Dc2trill
A part of Lil Yachty’s Concrete Boys label, Dc2trill‘s moment is for the taking. Sharing his latest solo effort Family Matters in July, the Texas-bred rapper’s affinity for off-beat flows and tenacious energy make him someone undeniably irresistible in rap’s rising new school. “Lord Of The Beans” with Boat is just one of the many collabs both emcees share, recently bodying the Concrete collective’s Christmas cypher “Mo Jamz” — on top of greater visibility from their viral Off The Radar freestyle. In addition to his catalog with Yachty, Dc2trill has worked with the likes of CEO Trayle, Rio Da Yung Og, Rmc Mike, Zelly Ocho and Warhol.ss on various cuts over the years. However, 2024 appears to be the year of Concrete — especially with the label’s CONCRETE BOYS, VOL. 1 tape on the way.
Glokk40Spaz
“Remember Me” was not only a call to action for Glokk40Spaz, but a fortune he’ll tell looking back on his career years later. From earning co-signs from SoFaygo, Duwap Kaine and D Savage (saying “he’s the reason why I wanted to rap”) to sonic comparisons of Chief Keef and NBA Youngboy, Glokk has become THE hottest topic in the underground in a matter of months — armed with a ferocious cult following that grows daily. The Decatur, Georgia native has taken the internet by storm with tracks like “Round Here” and “Definition,” among others. After all, his name derives from his ability to “spaz out” in the studio — evident on 2023 breakout albums in Glokk Files and Took The Biggest Risk. At 19 years old, he’s blowing up regardless of being behind bars, looking forward to flooding the game with more music once he’s free in 2024.
Highway
Highway continues to be one of the most underrated artists of the new wave. With a mysterious persona and highly developed original style at the intersection of hip hop, the underground, and R&B, Highway’s sound is uniquely captivating to a wide range of listeners – and undoubtedly is one of your favorite artists’ favorite hidden gems. Following “By Myself,” his well-received 2022 collaboration with Destroy Lonely, Highway delivered his debut album Monochrome in May. Some of the highlights included “on dat shit,” “Fuck-a-Rubberband,” and the Jetsonmade produced “Sin City,” as well as appearances from Seddy Hendrinx and a standout track with Ty Dolla $ign titled “All U Needed,” more than holding his own with a certified legend to create a frankly beautiful R&B duet (well before there was any discussion about ‘Y$’).
In addition to a very noteworthy appearance alongside internationally renowned graffiti artist, CHITO, in Supreme’s SS23 Campaign, Highway blessed fans with some excellent collabs throughout the year including “Count Fast Untitled 2,” the follow-up to the 2021 fan-favorite with longtime producer Basskids, as well as “Bad Time” with Joony, “Iced Out Watch” with Lil Dre, “Double Back” with Chavo, and a standout cut off Yung Bans’ recent tape “Stick N A Gown.” In conclusion, Highway is a rare talent with uniquely broad appeal and a high ceiling in 2024. — Aidan Werder
KARRAHBOOO
The first lady of Concrete, Karrahbooo has been one of the hottest topics in rap throughout the second half of 2023. Her viral On the Radar appearances, first solo in June and again in October for the viral Concrete Cypher – where she gave a standout closing performance that was widely shared around social media – have launched her to become one of the faces of the polarizing love-it-or-hate-it “offbeat” sound. Beneath her aloof demeanor and deceptively sleepy-sounding flows is a refreshingly fun approach, unmistakably unique tone, and clever non-recycled bars that get wittier with each listen.
Her catalog is remarkably small with just three songs on DSPs: gaining traction with “Box the 40” at the top of year and in November capitalizing on her viral moments with “Running Late” and “Splash Brothers” with fellow nonchalant female powerhouse, Anycia. And just a few weeks ago she delivered another standout performance when the Concrete Family reassembled for “Mo Jamz.” With a fiercely unique sound, multiple viral moments under her belt, and the enthusiastic backing of Lil Yachty and the fastest rising family in the game, there’s no question 2024 will be a big year for Karrahboo. — Aidan Werder
KPSKYWALKA
The DMV has one of the best regional sounds on the rise, and DC’s KP Skywalka is one of the scene’s most promising new faces. The title of his most recent album, RHYTHM N BIP, perfectly describes his particular brand of the region’s idiosyncratic sound defined by its pounding drums and hard-nosed attitude to match one of the most unexpectedly gritty cities in the country.
KP has a relentless, percussive flow, dense DC lingo, and the thick accent to match, which he combines with old school soul samples and hard-hitting percussion to paint vivid pictures about life, love, and bipping in the streets of the nation’s capitol. With a steady stream of tapes culminating with RHYTHM N BIP this fall and impressive singles throughout 2023 like “Tyfreka,” “Inna Mix,” “Bipperz Anthem” and “A Bipper’s Blues” KP has proven to be one of the most unique, consistent and polished artists out of the DMV this year – with a ton of room to grow in 2024 as listeners from around the country acquire the taste for his unorthodox and equally addicting signature sound. — Aidan Werder
L5
If it wasn’t clear in the hilarious Druski skit mimicking the anger and distortion the new Atlanta wave has cultivated, L5 has ascended due to his distinct vocals and controlled chaos. Adjacent to Playboi Carti’s prolific Opium camp — recently linking up with F1LTHY and Kaysan for their track “No Mind” — L5, much like 2sdxrt3all, is a trailblazer when it comes to taking the term “rage” to a new level. On a kill-streak of albums in 2023 — Nomo Free L5, its corresponding deluxe and Blood on switch st — L5 exudes vibrance and youthful angst within all of his songs — crafting unabashed, raw street anthems for a new generation.
Nettspend
Virality is one thing, overnight stardom is another, but achieving both simultaneously is incredibly far-fetched — unless you’re Nettspend. The 16-year-old DMV native’s mark on the underground is unmatched and only comparable to the likes of close peers and collaborators in xaviersobased, YhapoJJ and OsamaSon. They’re leading the charge of a new sound, but Nettspend is at the forefront of it all.
While his first EP, KiCKDOOR, was the catalyst to his rapid success, it’s his unhinged raging performances that put him on the map — going viral performing in NYC with xavier earlier this year. He followed up his debut EP with its deluxe,“KiCKDOOR++++, in June, later diversifying his sound by collaborating with producers like Ok, EvilGiane and more. It’s hard to believe his music career started in the fifth grade, as the “BADASSF***INGKID” embodies his moniker to the fullest — evolving with the sound that’s captured the youth in one swift stroke.
OsamaSon
Fresh off a pair of albums in 2023 — FLEX MUSIX and his debut LP Osama Season — OsamaSon has admittedly taken the underground by storm. After his music appeared on streams hosted by BruceDropEmOff earlier this year, the 19-year-old South Carolina native has become one of the most sought after artists of this era. Marked by his forthcoming tour with Rolling Loud, OsamaSon has been steadily dropping music since 2021. Stemming from a string of EPs titled ‘I’m Da Man,’ ‘Vengeance & Carnival,’ ‘osamavrt,’ ‘slime’ and ‘Bad Habits’, the Charlotte talent’s two proper offerings this year are an impressive first step into mainstream notoriety.
Fans were quick to compare him to co-signs such as Devstacks, Smokingskul and others who reside in the dark plugg-rage akin to Opium’s top dogs. Osama’s hit single “Troops” in June and “cts-v” were catalysts to his rise in the underground — both of which being fiery, exuberant pit anthems made for the mosh. OsamaSon’s sound is all his own, championing an alt-aggressive vibe that feels not only recently nostalgic, but unquestionably of-the-moment.
OT7 Quanny
OT7 Quanny emerged as a fiery sonic force over the past year, as the Philly native has his sights set on a transformative 2024. His artistry is a testament to the streets — weaving compelling narratives with razor-sharp one-liners over beats that echo with dark percussion, forming the cornerstone of his distinctive sound. With a streak of singles embodying his 2023 — with his most recent “Scam Brothers” breaking a Top 3 berth on Spotify — Quanny’s musical persona is shrouded in captivating simplicity. Coursed in a cascade of clever punchlines, each track serves as a building block in the foundation he meticulously constructs with every release. Earning co-signs from Lil Uzi Vert, Babyface Ray, Lil Migo, Shy Glizzy SleazyWorld Go, Cash Money AP, 22Gz and PNB Rock, the unwavering devotion fans and artists alike have showered him with underscores Quanny’s unparalleled, rising prominence.
Tommy Richman
Tommy Richman isn’t making music for the thrill of it, everything’s intentional — weaving an authentic sonic narrative that resonates with any everyday listener. The DC native’s affiliation to Brent Faiyaz and eventual signing to Faiyaz’s ISO Supremacy imprint are all inklings to his one-of-one sound — infusing his music with a fresh perspective that defies genre boundaries. Influenced by a diverse range of artists — from Mötley Crüe to Lil Wayne — Richman’s signature style seamlessly blends alternative, off-kilter rap and R&B to create a unique calling card he’s championed for years now.
His musical intuition was not only displayed on his 2022 debut ALLIGATOR, but his latest EP, The Rush — deepening his impact by offering a collection of favorite tracks that reflect his artistic evolution. His appearances on Faiyaz’s LARGER THAN LIFE are also indelibly memorable, as his forthcoming full-length album, COYOTE, seeks to weave a personal and cohesive narrative, charting his growth as an artist in 2024 and beyond.
Untiljapan
Sounds fashioned by the iconic Clams Casino collective are often used to provide an “umph” to a new wave artist’s repertoire. And yet, UntilJapan seems to do this better than most — if not all of his underground peers. His breakout album SAFE TRAVELS — revered as an underground AOTY by many — largely took over the scene’s mysterious, eclectic pocket since its release in September. “KISS N TELL” is the most telling of Japan’s emotive, dark-laced aura — bred from his debut tape DARK OUTSIDE, VOL. 1 in January 2023.
His proper debut, though, is a full force of meshed sounds popularized Highway, Joony, Destroy Lonely and more, but Japan thrives on the subtle depths of stark mystique. No interviews, barely any social presence — he seems to have appeared out of thin air through the bubbling alleys of Atlanta’s raging underground. However, it’s clear that Japan takes a more centric approach to his music — speaking on love, loss, personal anecdotes and aspirations as an emcee. SAFE TRAVELS is littered with gems; 2024 is UntilJapan’s year for the taking.
Wolfacejoeyy
Wolfacejoeyy is undoubtedly one of the brightest stars shining in the underground. The 20-year-old, Staten Island emcee’s unapologetically original style combines the best elements of Jersey club, drill and the new wave to create fresh, lighthearted viral hits that are instantly recognizable — powered by tender vocals, fresh production and undeniably infectious hooks.
After first breaking through in 2022 with “Shake It,” Joeyy’s debut EP, All Your Fault, included a remix to his viral single featuring B-Lovee. Earlier this month, he stopped by On The Radar to become the first artist to perform their entire project on OTR’s “Plugged In” series. Just three months into 2023, Joeyy put out his most viral hit to date: “buku.” Produced by Whereis22 (co-produced by Cade), the track was a soundtrack to our 2023, which led Joeyy to dropping his first proper project, 22Joey, this past Fall. Remixing “buku” with Cactus Jack star SoFaygo, Joeyy’s glimmering brand of pop, J-Club and rap is unmistakably his own. Staying true to his supporters and his unique sound — which fans have hilariously labeled as “cutie patooty” music — Wolfacejoeyy continues to be a breath of fresh air.
Xaviersobased
Hailing from the vibrant sonic stomping grounds of New York City, what sets Xaviersobased apart from his star-powered peers (OsamaSon, Yhapo, Nettspend) is his fearless approach to creativity — steering away from the conventional and diving head-first into experimentation. He’s always trying to do something different, albeit be different from everyone else.
At an early age, Xavier found his calling through a diverse range of artistic inspirations, which include Chief Keef, Hi-C, Lil B and Duwap Kaine. This mix of influences shape the unique soundscape he brings to his listeners. Simply put, Xavier’s catalog is an exploration — an unpredictable journey that defies our expectations. On tracks like “OTW” with Nettspend and full-length efforts like And 3, he showcases his willingness to push boundaries regardless of push back or doubters; it’s truly his world. Keep an eye out for our OGM interview with Xavier dropping soon, where he tells all of his journey, inspirations and more.
YhapoJJ
Yhapojj isn’t a jerk rapper, it’s just hard to box him into one sub-genre or another. Keeping that intentional and harnessing one of the most impressive ends to 2023, Yhapojj’s recently meteoric rise in the underground is as sample-fueled as it is sonically fresh. “1o” and “You Lookin Gud” might be some of the crooner’s most popular tracks, but they’re also some of his best.
An almost R&B-esque cadence carries him through synthetically melodic production that goes from hyper-trap to sad rap in the blink of an eye makes him hard to ignore. Just look at his recent NYC show that was shut down and moved to the end of some random street. Fans took a metal detector – there is not a single Yhapojj song that could incite anything that crazy. But clearly, the fans have spoken. Next to Nettspend and XavierSoBased sees Yhapojj, who we are blessed to listen to as he discovers his sound in real time. — John Cotter
YTB Fatt
YTB Fatt knows when to go all-in; there’s no luck involved when it comes to his success. Whether that be through his gambling expertise (playing dice since he was in the fourth grade) or signing to Moneybagg Yo‘s Bread Gang imprint, the Arkansas native has quickly made a name for himself in the Southern Rap circuit. Alongside touring with Moneybagg Yo and Sexyy Red over the summer, Fatt fully introduced himself on his debut mixtape Who Is Fatt in August and initially made waves with his hit track “Shot Off Gumbo” featuring Yo himself. Expect Fatt’s ferocious 2023 to spill into the new year.
2SDXRT3ALL
“The whole A tryna rap like me,” 2Sdxrt3all (aka “the ad-lib god”) asserts in the opening lines of his OGM interview — illustrating the influence the 17-year-old rapper has garnered just over a year into his career. Jumpstarting his motion in 2022, inspired by the likes of 2sRoccet and 2s3hard, 2Sdxrt3all initially turned heads courtesy of his uniquely-yelled ad-libs, inimitable beats by way of his right-hand man, producer and manager, Whyceg, and (of course) his name. The two are a tandem in every right, going on to craft all four of 2Sdxrt3all’s mixtapes which has set his hometown of Atlanta ablaze. Expect Atlanta’s new wave to be led by 2sdxrt3all’s fuming, fiery cadences in 2024 and some.
41
41 — comprised of artists in Jenn Carter, Kyle Richh and TaTa — is making waves in bigger than most. Despite the challenges posed by New York City’s restrictive approach to drill artists, the Brooklyn trio’s Jersey Club-inspired take on the genre has evidently broken this pattern of rinse-and-repeat street emcees. Tracks like “Bent” from their EP, 41 World: Not The Album, showcase their unique approach clad with each of their iridescent, distinctive personalities: Carter’s lyrics, Rich’s voice, and TaTa’s energy. This alone has garnered them over 3 Million Spotify listeners and millions of views on YouTube.
Despite being 20-something TikTok era voices still clamoring to be heard, 41 stands out as one of the most intriguing acts heading into 2024. Their high-performing On The Radar freestyle — which surpassed chart-toppers like Drake and Central Cee on YouTube — is just a glimmer of what they’re able to accomplish, and with an energy so infectious, they’re is well on their way to becoming NYC’s next super-group.
