The infamous XXL freshman list. Fair to say last year's selection was a controversial one; 50% calling the 2016 year trash and the other half calling out the 50% for being close minded. But you have the chance to get your say, as you can now vote for this year's 10th freshman. Although XXL have dropped a daunting list of upcoming artists. So in an attempt to save everyone losing their shit this year, I've put together a list of 8 artists worthy of your vote as a 2017 freshman hopeful. If I didn't pick your personal favorite don't get in your feels and call me out, go vote! Oh, and you best be quick about it - voting closes April 2nd.
*Disclaimer - I am only considering artists who have dropped a mixtape, album or a substantial number of singles. I ain't about to award a one-track artist a freshman spot, I just ain't - soz.*
The Artsy Dude: Allan Kingdom
What strikes you first about Allan Kingdom could be very different dependant on which of his tracks you hear first. Being the artsy dude in 2017’s class, Allan has a diverse and experimental sound, using a range of production styles often from his own fingertips. Somewhere between the versatility of Kanye and creative vision of Cudi, he is definitely one to consider.
Allan Kingdom - Northern Lights (Free Mixtape)
The Lyrical Kid: J.I.D
A counter to his cities sound, J.I.D is the lyrical kid from Atlanta just recently signed to J. Cole’s Dreamville records. Occupying the same lane as your Kendrick Lamar’s, occasionally drawing a little too much influence from the man himself, he provides a lyrical, soulful and often blissed-out mood. His skill for bringing the early 90s hip hop sound into the present is undoubtable so this may be a vote for the OGs.
J.I.D - The Never Story (Album Stream)
The Man of Many Influences: Jazz Cartier
Having grown up in Toronto, the US, Barbados and Kuwait, (it’s fair to say this is the man of many influences). Although a Toronto resident now, Cartier’s sound spans beyond the reverb-heavy minimalism associated with the city. Couple his influences with a consistent commercial appeal and you have the blueprint for Jazz. If you’re struggling to pick an artist because of the sheer number of styles and choices, then Jazz has it covered.
Jazz Cartier - Hotel Paranoia (Free Mixtape)
The Party Starter: MadeinTYO
Everyone knows the party starter in the group and MadeinTYO is that guy this freshman year. Although his sound isn’t too original, utilising the Atlantan sound of his home city. What sets MadeinTYO apart from his counterparts is his ability to present the simplest song and makes it sound dope through his charisma and cadence. Endorsed by Metro Boomin, sporting a feature from OG 2 Chainz, and remixes by Travi$ Scott and A$AP Rocky, it seems I'm not the only one who agrees.
MadeinTYO - Thank You, Mr. Tokyo (Album Stream)
The Addict: Nav
“Before I had money, I swear that I had no life, Now I get drunk and I'm smokin' weed, Poppin' pills all the time”. Nav’s sound, lyrics, and general aesthetic depicts the druggy lifestyle he lives - the addict. He may be a little too simplistic for some, but for those looking to get fucked up before a night out or getting wild with whoever on the scene, this shit bumps. After all, he’s only in it for a good time.
Nav - Nav (Album Stream)
The Female Prodigy: Noname
So when I first heard Noname the first thing I thought was “Erm… chance? That you?”. And don’t take that as spite, Noname is a seriously underrated artist. She has a style that is old school, lyrical and smooth but with a quirkiness unique to very few artists. If you love Gambino, Chance, or J. Cole, I urge you to go check out this outstanding female - she might just become the best female in the game.
Noname - Telefone (Free Mixtape)
The Bedroom Master: SiR
I don't understand why everyone is getting so caught up in the inclusion of R&B artists as freshman… I get that it’s traditionally a hip hop list BUT the genre has stretched and shifted so much that the line between both genres has become very vague. So this is my R&B pick of the bunch - the bedroom master SiR. This guy is so goddamn smooth. I mean if “Cadillac Dreams” didn’t hit you on first listen, I don’t think you’ve got a soul. Little known to many, but SiR has been working in the background at TDE for a while now thanks to his multi-instrumental skills, and having officially signed with the prestigious label now.
Expect huge waves from his solo wonder.
SiR - Her Too (EP Stream)
The Boss: 24hrs
Anyone remember Royce Rizzy? Best call him 24hrs now as this will be his legacy. 24hrs is a boss, no 2 ways about it. He is a talented producer, having laid down the foundations for his blood brothers success; MadeinTYO. Oh did I forget to mention that? Anyway, not only is he a producer, he is also a talented rapper, singer, and collaborator - pulling heavyweight features from Gucci Mane, Ty Dolls $ign, MadeinTYO & Rick Ross to name a few. What’s most striking about 24hrs is his unique take on the autotune craze, but taking the idea of vocal manipulation and notching his vocals up by a few semitones. The result is a melodic, one of a kind sound.
24hrs - Not Open Late (EP Stream)
So go check out some fresh talent for 2017 & go vote!
Peace, Subskills.
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