Hip-hop has always been defined by its charismatic figures who not only top the charts but also shape the culture. However, with the genre’s icons either aging out or focusing their attention elsewhere, the genre is facing a period without dominant, culture-defining figures on par with Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and J. Cole. But change is on the horizon. A fresh wave of talent is emerging, ready to take the torch and define the sound, style, and influence of the next decade.
Written by Earvin Adjei
Doechii
Songs to listen to: “Persuasive”, “Alter Ego”, “NISSAN ALTIMA”
What can I say about Doechii that hasn’t already been said? She meets all the requirements of a rap superstar—lyrical ability, stunning visuals, and authenticity. Her music, a blend of Hip-Hop and R&B, highlights both lyrical prowess and emotional depth that is currently lacking within the genre. Doechii began releasing music on SoundCloud in 2015 and steadily worked her way up until she signed with TDE in 2022. Not long after, she made her debut under the label with her single, “Persuasive,”. Since then, she has accomplished an impressive amount in a short time. From collaborations with well-known artists like SZA and JT to winning a Grammy for Rap Album of the Year with her mixtape “Alligator Bites Never Heal,” Doechii has already proven to be a force to be reckoned with and one of the leading faces of the genre for years to come.
Playboi Carti
Songs to listen to: “2024”, “ILoveUIHateU”, “EVILJ0RDAN”
Has the Hip-Hop genre ever seen a character as intriguing as Playboi Carti? Whether he’s cosplaying as a vampire or wearing makeup that makes him resemble the Joker, Carti knows how to keep his name in the conversation. Despite not releasing an album in 2024, Carti remained one of the year’s most talked-about rappers. When he first emerged on the scene, he was often seen in VLONE tees, rapping over airy beats with heavy 808s, a stark contrast to his current dark, gothic aesthetic and punk-inspired sound. His sonic shift, first introduced on his 2020 album Whole Lotta Red, has carried over to his recent feature run. In 2023 and 2024, Carti assisted on many high-profile tracks like “FE!N” with Travis Scott, “Carnival” with Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign, “Type Shit” with Future and Metro Boomin, and even “I Luv It” with Camila Cabello. His ability to seamlessly adapt to different sounds while still maintaining his signature style has set him apart from many of his peers. With an ever-evolving sound and unique aura, it’s hard to deny his star power and potential.
Glorilla
Songs to listen to: “Yeah Glo!”, “HOLLON”, “TGIF”
It was not too long ago when streamer Kai Cenat criticized Glorilla’s track “Cha Cha Cha”, and sparked debate over whether the rapper had already fallen off after the success of “FNF” and “Tomorrow 2”. Glorilla quickly silenced the doubts, bouncing back with another string of hits, a well-received mixtape, and her highly anticipated debut album. So, how did Glorilla turn things around? It started with her single “Yeah Glo!”, which quickly gained traction on social media and even gained a cosign from Lakers superstar LeBron James. From there, she kept the momentum going with her mixtape “Ehhthang Ehhthang”, which featured other standout tracks such as “Wanna Be” with Megan Thee Stallion. Glorilla would go on to cap it all off with her debut album that was packed with hits including “TGIF” which reached #22 on the Billboard Hot 100. Not only did Glorilla shake off the doubts, but she also positioned herself as a dominant force in the game. If her recent run is any indication, she’s only just getting started.
Latto
Songs to listen to: “Sunday Service’, “Big Mama”, ” Put It On Da Floor”
From a reality TV star to a rap sensation, Latto has had quite the career already. After competing in and winning the reality TV show, The Rap Game, Latto quickly established herself as a standout in the Hip-Hop industry. In 2020, her breakout hit “Bitch From Da Souf’” gained traction in the mainstream and helped her secure a record deal with RCA that same year. Her debut album was released shortly after signing, but it was her second outing that would make major noise. 777, Latto’s second album, released in 2022, featured the megahit ‘Big Energy,’ which peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and cemented her as a rising star. She continued her momentum with Sugar Honey Iced Tea in 2024, an album that once again delivered major hits: ‘Put It On Da Floor Again’ featuring Cardi B and ‘Brokey,’ both of which became fan favorites. The album further highlighted her artistic growth, blending club anthems with hard-hitting rap records. With an evolving sound and undeniable star power, Latto has proven that she’ll continue to be a major force in the rap game.
Gunna
Songs to listen to: “HIM ALL ALONG”, “back in the a”, “life’s changing”
Gunna has had his back against the wall since his prison release in December 2022. After pleading guilty to a racketeering charge, many fans—and even some rappers—labeled him a snitch. Despite this, Gunna dropped back-to-back chart-topping projects and embarked on a nationwide tour. While he’s been a prominent figure in Hip-Hop for years, his recent run has arguably been the most impressive of his career. Seemingly blackballed by the industry, he delivered A Gift & a Curse with no features, producing the hit ‘Fukumean,’ which peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. The following summer, he released his fifth studio album, One of Wun, and hit the road alongside Flo Milli. Critics and fans alike praised the tour for blending Gunna’s introspective tracks with his signature melodic style, further proving his artistry and stage presence. Through all the trials and tribulations, Gunna has held his head high and defied the odds—whether fans or his rap peers like it or not.
The Earvin Edit 