Producers have always been the unsung heroes of hip-hop, whether they possess their own public persona or not. Kenny Beats, Metro Boomin, The Alchemist and others have been pioneers in gaining the public recognition producers so rightfully deserve.
Despite the continual acknowledgement from artists and other producers, it’s become less and less normal for fans to appreciate the producer more so than the artist. Simply put, while there are plenty of artists who have yet to be noticed, producers always foot the bill. We took some time to highlight a few marquee producers in today’s new wave.
Digital Nas
Atlanta-based producer-rapper Digital Nas has some of the largest placements on this list. Most notably, his name appeared on “Junya” and “Remote Control” off of Kanye’s Donda, featuring Playboi Carti and Young Thug. With prior collaborations on singles with Lil Yachty, A$AP Ferg, Bktherula, Chris Travis, Lil Wop and more, Nas has been poised for success and is finally getting the credit he deserves.
Star Boy
Dutch producer Star Boy has been integral to the early days of synth-heavy bangers, producing some of the meanest beats off of Whole Lotta Red by Playboi Carti and Trip At Knight by Trippie Redd. As rage beats continue to increase in popularity, Star Boy is sure to receive the status he has been working for.
Maajins
Maajins has become a go-to producer in the underground, working up instrumentals for Autumn!, Xhulooo, Yeat and more. His recent hit, “Antisocial 2,” features vocals from BabySantana, Slump6s, Yung Fazo, Xhulooo and SSGKobe.
BNYX
With placements from Ty Dolla $ign, Lil Uzi Vert, Zack Fox, Lancey Foux, Matt Ox and Shy Glizzy, BNYX (pronounced Benny X) has collaborated with a combination of mainstream and underground artists. His sound varies from melodic, tropical beats to more boom-bap centric instrumentals.
Jaasu
Jaasu has been around since the first days of SoundCloud, producing early hits from Rich The Kid and Famous Dex. Since then, his discography has expanded to include collaborations with SSGKobe, Remble, 24kGoldn and more.
All of these young instrumentalists have created some of our favorite tracks over the last year. 2022 is sure to bring more heat from each of them as the new wave continues to flourish.
