The surrounding area of Washington D.C, better known as the DMV, is overflowing with culture and hip-hop talent. Rap veterans like Pusha T and Wale rose up in this area, and have been followed by many emerging rappers. With buzzing names like Rico Nasty and Cordae also bringing major attention to the DMV, the way is paved for other small artists looking to make a name for themselves outside of this area.
Check out our list of “10 DMV Rappers You Should be Supporting.”
10 DMV Rappers You Should be Supporting
IDK
Bowie, Maryland
IDK is one of the hottest emerging rappers. Though he’s been releasing music since 2014, it wasn’t until the past few years that IDK has began to blow up. Now with a strong fanbase, every project IDK releases gains heavy traction. His sound could easily be mistaken for the experimental Atlanta sound due to his wonky beats and playful flow.
Every single one of his songs brings a new form of excitement. From an experimental sound in “24” to an island-y R&B sound in “December,” IDK covers it all. His two projects “IDK & FRIENDS” showcases talent from nationally known artists like A$AP Ferg and Denzel Curry. As well as other DMV rappers like Q Da Fool and Rico Nasty.
XanMan
Landover, Maryland
XanMan is a well rounded rapper effortlessly delivering intricate bars over enticing beats. His expressive range of topics strike listeners and keeps fans engaged. Pigeons & Planes even named him “the most quotable rapper from the DMV.” The proof is across his extensive discography. His 7 full projects released in 2018 show his natural abilities and diligent nature.
It’s almost impossible to choose a favorite track by XanMan, but a good start is “Foulin The Plug.” To hear the softer side of XanMan, check out “ICE.”
Q Da Fool
Largo, Maryland
Q Da Fool may as well lead the trap rap scene in the DMV with his anthem-like lyrics and delivery. His rap career started young as part of rap collective Pakk Boyz Gang. After branching out into a solo career, Q Da Fool started gaining traction in 2015 with the release of four mixtapes. He doesn’t let anything stop him from making music, with multiple mixtapes produced while in prison.
His song “Guns n Bells” represents his trap sound while his song “Win” brings a more evolved sound.
Shabazz PBG
Seat Pleasant, Maryland
Shabazz PBG has lyrics and a flow similar to 21 Savage but with a substantially lighter delivery. This creates an impressive laid-back sound that not many rappers can execute. His laid back flow is melded with mischievous beats, creating a feeling of tension and energy.
Shabazz PBG’s appealing style has led him to collaborations with huge names like Lil Uzi Vert and Cardi B. His song “Versatile” is the perfect introduction to his distinctive sound.
Shy Glizzy
Washington D.C.
Though Shy Glizzy has been around since the early 2010’s, he’s still one to watch out for. His 2014 single, “White Girl” exploded his career and provided him a solid fan base to support all of his releases thereafter. Beyond his initial buzz, Shy Glizzy has become a leader in the DMV hip-hop scene. He uses music as a way to overcome the trials and tribulations he has experienced growing up with all odds stacked against him. His mischievous style and tongue-twisting linguistics create an unrivaled sound.
Marcoof500
Virginia
Marcoof500 is a promising drill rapper on a steady rise. Marco exercises conscious artistry by storytelling about his experiences in each one of his albums. From “The Travels of Marco” to his 2021 project, “The Book of Marco,” each one goes deep into his journey. His beat selection and visuals tie it all together.
Marco takes the do-it-yourself ethos to an extreme by opening his own label “500 Entertainment.” This venture has brought his artist career great success, with a cult-like following behind his brand. Marco’s track “Speak On My Name” accurately represents his abilities and infectious style.
Deetranada
Baltimore, Maryland
Some consider Baltimore part of the DMV and some don’t, but either way I had to feature rapper Deetranada. The rich textures of sound variations in her vocals and production construct an intoxicating sound. Deetranada’s music is truly addicting due to her lyrical excellence and busy beats. Every single one of her songs sounds made for the car getting hyped up with friends.
Her most recent project “DEEvsEVERYBODY!” presents bangers like “WOAH!” and “ATTITUDE!“
YungManny
Hillmead, Maryland
YungManny may be in the basement compared to many, but his music doesn’t represent that. He started rapping in 10th grade after fellow DMV rapper XanMan married into his family and served as inspiration. His playful delivery creates music appealing to any type of rap fan, proof in his track “Mrs. Right.” His chaotic sound compares to rappers like Fivio Foreign and Pop Smoke. Only in the game for a few years, it’s just a matter of time before YungManny blows up.
3ohBlack
Washington D.C.
3ohBlack may as well be the hottest emerging rapper coming out of the DMV, with proof in his recent sign with Capitol Records. His 2019 track “All Talk” brought his full potential to the table and showed the world what he’s capable of. His vivid lyricism and powerful delivery produce an unforgettable sound.
3ohBlack’s 2020 album “Who Want It” brought impressive features on top of sensational beats. With all of his recent notable moments, 3ohBlack is on track for a triumphant 2021.
Fat Trel
Washington D.C.
Fat Trel has been rapping longer than the majority of these rappers. In fact, he was in the studio at the young age of 10. After releasing a solo project every year since 2009, Rick Ross discovered and signed him to Maybach Music Group. His lyrical execution and effortless delivery is evidence that he’s the real deal. While he’s not known for one specific hit or viral moment, his numbers are consistent throughout proving his sturdy fanbase.
While the boundaries of DMV remains a debate, there’s no limit to the amount of talented rappers coming out of this area. This is an area crafting rappers that don’t quite fit in any boxes, and with touches of influence from southern rap to more urban sounds, you never know what a DMV rapper will ultimately bring to the table.
Check out the “DMV Rap + Hip-Hop 2021” Playlist!
If you know of any other DMV rappers who should be on a list like this, please comment below with your recommendations and/or reach out directly with music via email (info@respectmyregion.com).
Artists who want to be featured can reach out using the submission tab at RespectMyRegion.com/marketing.
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