Hip-hop originated in New York City during the 1970s, specifically, in the Bronx. New York hip-hop artists dominate the genre with lyrical dexterity, creative sampling, and intricate metaphor. New York can arguably be called the hip-hop capital of the world. Many of hip-hop’s megastars come from New York, way too many to name here, but current greats include Nicki Minaj, KRS-One, and Jay-Z.
Maybe it’s The Big Apple’s seedy side, perhaps it’s the film-noir feel of NYC at 3 am, or it could be the city’s sheer immensity, but many of the rappers on this list share a considerably darkish sound. 2021’s underground artists present a variety of unique, personal sounds, but they all embody the very best that modern, underground East Coast rap has to offer.
Junglepussy
NYC rapper and actress Junglepussy has been hyped by hip-hop greats like Erykah Badu and Lil’ Kim for her smooth flow and badass style. Over the years her style has matured in the best ways, building on deeply metaphorical lyrics atop lo-fi beats. Orgasmic arrangements complement Grace Jonesy vibes on “Arugula.” “Spiders” is decidedly eerie, and anyone who can deliver the creepy crawlies like that is just gold. Junglepussy‘s 2020 tracks effectively boil the year down in a nutshell, and this hip-hop queen is definitely one to watch in 2021.
Conway the Machine
Hitting the underground scene hard since 2015, Buffalo rapper Conway the Machine had his most prolific year yet in 2020. The Griselda Records artist released two EPs and the 14-track From King to a GOD with the label. Last year’s work blends masterful drill rap with eerie instrumentals, cinematic strings, and AutoTuned harmonies to dark, enchanting effects. But the New York hip-hop artist is just gearing up. 2021 is slated to deliver Conway‘s highly anticipated Shady Records debut album God Don’t Make Mistakes.
Bonnie and Hyde
Queens, NY death rap veteran Mr. Hyde pairs up with wife Cherie Rain on new project Bonnie and Hyde. The two have collaborated a handful of times over the years, but this full-length album is a first. The result is a catchy fusion of Cherie’s dark instrumentals and haunting vocals with Hyde’s brutal lyrics. It’s all slipped over boom-bap beats, subtle rock elements, and spoken word poetry. Don’t miss rapper Celph Titled of super-group Army of the Pharaohs joining the duo on “Funky Fresh Face Melt.”
Rome Streetz
This Brooklyn emcee’s New Age hip-hop sound shovels the grime of NYC streets against a backdrop of Golden Era sounds. With tales of hustle culture, unshakable ambition, and survival, Rome Streetz is quickly becoming a standout on the NYC rap scene. And Rome‘s last album, Kontraband, earned kudos for his intricate flow and Farmbeats’ eerie soundscape. His latest single, “Prayers Over Packages,” features cinematic production courtesy of DJ Muggs and teases their next album, Death Of A Magician, dropping on February 26.
Nitty Scott
New York hip-hop artist, activist, and art school grad Nitty Scott is back and bringing fire. After a three-year hiatus, Nitty has brought us gritty, empowering rhymes and brassy bars. Even after collaborations with big names like superstar Cardi B, Kendrick Lamar, and Action Bronson, Brooklyn’s Rap Game Lil Buddha hasn’t broken out – yet. La Negrita gets in your face with real talk, addressing topics not often talked about in hip-hop. Maybe it’s her feminist subject matter, maybe it’s her bright sound (a contrast to NYC’s typically dark vibes), but Nitty Scott is underrated AF. As 2021 brings a whole new mindset, she just might change that.
The Musalini
New York hip-hop artist The Musalini came up in the underground scene in 2019 spitting street-savvy lyrics about pimping and blow Though he’s young on the scene, he’s been prolific, and he’s put out five albums over the past few years. Atmospheric loops and minimalist beats support his rap-noir sound for a 70s-era R&B/Soul feel. Still, his sound is unmistakably modern. 2020’s Return of Oro delivers a sound you can just let ride for hours. And The Musalini follows it up with 2021’s extremely dope collaboration with Denver’s O Finess on No Squares in My Circle.
Hus Kingpin
Hailing from Long Island’s Hempstead village, Hus Kingpin’s newest album, Portishus, layers gritty rap over Portishead-like trip-hop grooves. This unlikely pairing may seem odd, but the end result is a genius-level work of acoustical art. Graphic rhymes chase straight cold street topics like sex and drugs against a ghostly, dreamlike backdrop. The album features a virtual who’s who of the best underground rappers. And with Portishead samples liberally sprinkled throughout, Kingpin’s latest drop manages to embrace avant-garde soundscapes while staying true to his own gritty style.
Breeze Brewin
Veteran New York hip-hop artist Breeze Brewin’ has been serving verses since the ‘90s with bands like Juggaknots and Indelible MCs. Despite his efforts, he’s remained rooted firmly underground. But in 2021, his skills are getting some well-deserved attention with his debut solo album Hindsight. Lyrical mastery meets throwback ‘80s scratch and lo-fi loops backed by melodic harmonies. Tracks like “The Uninvited” and “Taking Notes” speak to the present with deep subject matter contrasting high-vibe beats.
Prema 777
Staten Island’s Prema 777 was in the middle of recording her debut album Take Flight, when she found out she was pregnant with her first child. Prema took it as a sign, saying, “I felt like it was a calling from the universe to literally give birth to my son and my project.” The boom bap rapper had her son, Loryn Prince, days after dropping the album in 2018. Now, Take Flight is slated for re-release in early 2021. We can’t wait to hear the shined-up version of Prema’s best album yet and new tracks like “Workin” that come with it. Want more? Check out her Blackbook feature.
Did we miss anyone? We’re always working to find the newest and hottest underground artists to feature on our site. Feel free to reach out to us directly via email for any inquiries about featuring an artist.
If you are an artist seeking promotion, visit our Marketing Page for more info on the standard marketing packages we offer. Follow our Lowkey Fire playlist on Spotify for new trending underground hip-hop, rap, and R&B tunes daily.
