Sacramento rap artists are said to have developed roots in the early 90s with a hip-hop style inspired by grunge-era music of the Northwest region. Today’s emerging Sacramento artists continue breaking the traditional hip-hop mold, melding that OG grunge rap with new school beats.
Whether we’re talking about community staples like Mozzy or tapping into universal consciousness, these ten Sacramento hip-hop artists are worth supporting in 2021.
M’ster Lewis
M’ster Lewis creates hip-hop that stokes the flame of universal consciousness with songs like “Far From Here.” Mixing hip-hop with spoken word, Lewis speaks to our better nature and encourages listeners to break past the boundaries of situational limitations. Thought-provoking lyrics define tracks like “Know Your Worth” and “Rebuilding the Culture,” promoting social consciousness through hip-hop – the musical medium meant for real talk.
Kali Streetz
Kali Streetz started making music when he was barely a teenager. And at 22, he is more dedicated than ever. Streetz focuses on inspiring the youth through stories centered on street life and strong women. Taking inspiration from wide-ranging influences, including Kanye West and Philly Freeway, his sound is filtered by just the right amount of AutoTune to make it feel super fresh.
Jive Hive
Collin Jacka, a.k.a. Jaxa, and Chase Taormina, a.k.a. Chase Tea, make up Sacramento hip-hop duo Jive Hive. These Gen Z newcomers have been collaborating since 2019 on a sound that embraces styles and genres. Along with Shane Anderson, owner of Unique Recording Studios and Unique Records, the pair produce their own sick beats. Best described as West Coast lo-fi hip-hop, Jive Hive is perfect for chill afternoons and stoney evenings when you just want to kick back and relax.
Noni Blanco
Underground hip-hop artist Noni Blanco began her career following in the footsteps of Sacramento rapper Mozzy. Her albums Pretty Militant and Live Fast Die Pretty were pretty successful, and she’s been able to collaborate with him a few times so far. Speaking to the gangsta in all females, Blanco is one of the hottest underground rappers in Sacramento.
Celly Ru
Mozzy Hellgang member Celly Ru made a name for himself in Sacramento’s underground hip-hop scene with tracks like “Krazy” and “God as My Witness.” The 31-year-old rapper’s crazy lyrical flow digs deep and spits hot, gangsta style. A prolific creator, Celly Ru is constantly releasing new tracks, so if you’re a fan, you’ll have a steady stream of new tracks to bump throughout 2021.
BabyFace Gunna
Another Mozzy protégé, BabyFace Gunna honed his ruthless lyrical style and casual flow on the streets of Sacramento’s Oak Park neighborhood. It seems like this baller’s always working on something with someone, so look for plenty of new tracks, solo projects, and collaborations with other Sacramento artists.
Hobo Johnson
Hobo Johnson‘s story is a classic rags to riches tale. Well, maybe he hasn’t gotten all the riches just yet, but he’s working on it. After quitting his job at a pizza restaurant, Frank Lopes, Jr. started performing hip-hop while living out his car on the streets of Sacramento. Mixing emo rap, hip-hop, and spoken word, the Millenial rapper’s tongue-in-cheek lyrics and eccentric style make the best ear candy whether you want to scream or giggle ’til it hurts.
Henny Holyfield
Formerly known as Hennessey, Sacramento artist and radio personality Henny Holyfield has been making music for over two decades. Holyfield proves exceptional music doesn’t need A-list artists or mainstream radio to claim the spotlight. Break-through tracks like “Clocked In” share his message that life is meant to be enjoyed. His optimistic themes and buoyant energy make it easier to navigate rough terrain and crushing circumstances. Listening to Holyfield can only make 2021 better.
Mozzy
If you listen to West Coast rap, you’ve probably heard of Sacramento hip-hop artist Mozzy. Raised in Oak Park, Mozzy started his music career as Lil’ Tim at age 11. His signature California drawl runs through early LPs, focusing on his regional roots. After signing with EMPIRE Distribution in 2016, his style has expanded to encompass several subgenres for a more universal message. His success has helped open numerous doors for business opportunities in and out of music.
Stunna Girl
Sacramento rapper and songwriter Stunna Girl started recording rhymes in her closet when she was just eight years old. Her street rapper father fueled her passion for music at their home studio. Before long, Stunna’s freestyle skills gained her an online following. She followed breakout singles like “Runway” with her independent debut album, 17-track YKWTFGO. In 2021, Stunna Girl is still smokin’.
If you know of an artist 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).
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