After a tumultuous start to the decade, 2023 has come back with a vengeance. This year has felt particularly vibrant in the Pacific Northwest with a seemingly endless list of albums to choose from that are all hitting on every level. We truly have Grammy level performers in every nook and cranny of the region and this year felt like a special showcase of that talent.
Throughout the year, I highlighted well over 100 different releases from artists all over the Pacific Northwest as part of my Word Around the Sound series. I chipped away at the long list until I was still left with a long list of my top albums* from around the Sound in 2023. There were so many projects that I truly loved that I couldn’t possibly limit myself to the usual 20ish entries. To break things up a bit, though, I’ve grouped things together in categories so you can explore different pockets of the scene throughout the year based on an arbitrary *~ViBe~*.
*Album is a loose term here because as streaming redefines how artists release music, I chose to include a lot of short EPs alongside the full-length conceptualized albums and mid-length projects.
T’$ Top 55 Pacific Northwest Albums of 2023
The Debuts
- Ariana Deboo, Baby Blue
Although, technically, Ariana Deboo has released music before, Baby Blue is truly her debut EP as a solo artist. Throughout the 6-track project, her emotional lyrics breeze along with the instruments showcasing her impactful songwriting capabilities. Overall, Baby Blue is a sweet soulful debut offering from Ariana Deboo and I’m thrilled we finally have a nice little collection of songs from her to cherish.
- Evngeo, I Woke Up This Morning
If you woke up this morning, you’re going to want to listen to this album. Evan George, artistically known as Evngeo, made his debut as a solo artist in a major way with the release of his project I Woke Up This Morning. Having initially made a name for himself with his infectious band In Aisle Eight, Evngeo branched off to showcase his ability to produce and compose his own original music. To spice things up, however, throughout the album he has curated a roster of featured vocalists who add more texture to his songs.
- Oblé Reed, LINDENAVE!
It was everything to see the Seattle Times label Oblé Reed as the “Seattle rap rookie” of the year with critics from the region awarding his debut project, LINDENAVE! with the title of Washington’s Best Album in 2023. I’ve been riding with the young artist and his team since the jump and I’m incredibly proud to see them reach this achievement in such a short time.
The project itself is a blend of hip-hop and pop sensibilities. Oblé goes from deep moments of reflection to hard hitting bars exuding the confidence of a young artist who knows his worth all the way to catchy upbeat dance grooves that make you want to move your feet. His intelligence and determination shine through in every aspect of the project, the rollout, and the live performances he’s put on. All of which is emphasized further by his entire supporting team who have helped guide him into being the artist he is today.
- Porsche, Porsche for President
This cute four-track EP is a compelling bid from this Puget Sound poet. Porsche opened herself up for her debut project and had the courage right from the beginning to give us her most vulnerable self. On Porsche For President “The Vibe” set from the beginning is immaculate. The title track paints a portrait of a brave, confident, and open soul. Then, Porsche closes out her bid for presidency with a final “Note To Self:” that is filled with sweet personal affirmations spoken over a soothing acoustic guitar riff subdued in the background.
- Reposado, Tequila Funk
In the era of music where streaming is king, I feel like Reposado’s debut album flew under the radar; it’s almost as if it is imaginary and doesn’t actually exist, even though I have it physically pressed into vinyl. This vivacious ensemble is truly a community of talented artists led by Jean-Paul Builes on lead vocals. Their debut album Tequila Funk blends Latin, Afro funk and soul to entrance the listener from start to finish. Between their high energy, infectious rhythms and their ultra catchy and empowering lyrics, this ensemble knows how to party and the album reflects that.
Like I said, this album isn’t actually available to stream. However, they do have a few singles from the record on Spotify, Bandcamp, and Soundcloud that you can check out in the meantime.
- Small Paul, Come Alive & Live Again
There is a large amount of talent coming out of the folksy, Americana rock band Small Paul. The quartet features musicians who have already established themselves through other bands like The Moondoggies, Chris King and the Gutterballs and All Star Opera. They released their debut album this year and it’s a cozy collection of songs to warm your spirits up with. Come Alive & Live Again is a grounding experience that reminds you to take time to connect with what’s happening in the here and now. It evokes a longing ache for adventure and is an instant classic for any road trip soundtrack.
- 10 Thousand Rats (Jesse Desean x Andy Savoie), 10 Thousand Rats
I’m no stranger to Jesse Desean nor Andy Savoie’s music. So, when I found out that the two were coming together for their collaborative project 10 Thousand Rats, I was STOKED! Throughout the project you get an experimental blend of rap, house, hip-hop, and electronic music. The dynamic debut from this duo has formed a rat king sized special spot in my heart.
- The Unusuals (JFK Ninjaface x Xperience), The Unusuals
This is one I was waiting in anticipation for pretty much all year long. The Unusuals is a duo consisting of Ninjaface and Xperience from the legendary Oldominion crew who are an essential pillar when discussing hip-hop in Seattle. Their self-titled album The Unusuals is a tribute to the classic boom bap sound mixed with a soulful undertone that creates a dynamic album that can easily fit into today’s more modern sounds.
The Poets
- AJ Suede, Reoccurring Characters
When it comes to AJ Suede, I tend to lean more towards his personally produced albums like the summertime stunner Ark Flashington. However, this year his collaborations with Portland’s Televangel and Brooklyn’s Steel Tipped Dove really stood out to me.
Working with producers on both the West and East coasts this year gave Suede the opportunity to inject a different flavor in your ear based on the seasoning of the production. In this case, on Parthion Shots, we hear a dustier, antiquated, yet soulful backdrop produced by Televangel which allows Suede to turn around and fire bar after bar of witty lyrics. In contrast, his collab with Steel Tipped Dove, the critically acclaimed album Reoccuring Characters has a bit more of a modern sound steeped in jazzy beats with delicate accents that offset the heavy rhymes Suede delivers.
Although Reoccuring Characters is my top choice for the Suede God Album of the Year award, he kicked off the year with the incredible Indica Music, and ended the year debuting his new project What Them Dogs Don’t Know They Know, where Suede is one half of the duo G’s Us alongside fellow poetic rapper R.A.P. Ferreira.
- Blake Anthony and Wffls, Must Be God
When Blake Anthony and Wffls come together they hit the fusion dance to form one single superior entity that produces music that defies words. This year, they gave us a little tease of an EP called Must Be God, in anticipation for the full-length album to come, hopefully, very soon. The soulful, jazzy project has a hint of rock and roll to it that gives it a unique flavor. Even though the EP is only four tracks, Blake and Wffls give you a variety of sounds to sample.
- BlkSknn and The Rhetorician, Late Bloomer
BlkSknn was one of my most frequently discussed artists this year. I interviewed him after the release of his album Quiet Kid in the Corner and got to dive deeper into who he is as an artist, and it only fueled my passion for his music more. Although that project is perfect to me from start to finish, it was his organic collaboration with The Rhetorician that truly took my breath away this year. Their EP, Late Bloomer, is a lush bed of poetic flows and dramatic beats that emanate a warm glow throughout. There is equal parts strength and vulnerability that give a balance to the project that is accentuated by the levels in the final mixdown.
- J’von, Dream Surfer 2
The latest DLC in J’von’s discography saw the second installment in the Dream Surfer journey. The adventure he has been on hasn’t quite been what he expected; throughout Dream Surfer 2, J’von reflects on his world as a creative, as a father, and as a confused human being. On the surface, the album is seemingly light-hearted with some of its playful 8-bit style beats and its cartoon graphics. However, J’von is here delivering some stank-face inducing, heavy-weight bars that make me absolutely disgusted in the best fucking way possible.
- LAZĀ, Told You So
One thing is for sure, LAZĀ reached a whole new level this year. Having always shown her potential as a songwriter and performer, this year she really is proving that she’s one of the best doing it right now. She gave us a few bursts of EPs this year with Thanks for Your Concern, Told You So, and the most recent release of All in One Night, alongside a few singles sprinkled in between. The standout for me this year was the quick two-piece combo from the Told You So EP. Both tracks, “Duck Duck” and “Tarantino” have stayed in heavy rotation in my playlist.
- Lewie, Life of T Bone
Lewie has carved out a sound for himself utilizing real life experiences to write his lyrics and autotune to slide his vocals over whatever cold beat is backing the track. This year he gave us a real sweet and vulnerable EP titled Life of T Bone. His vocals sound more refined even though we still get his signature sound. The guitar throughout really pulls at the heartstrings making for an emotional project from start to finish.
- Pinder, Emerald City
In an ode to the Emerald City, Pinder’s latest album is steeped in the sounds of the Pacific Northwest. Pinder has features from PNW legends like Fatal Lucciauno, J’von, Malice and Mario Sweet, as well as SEV of The Fade and formerly Dyme Def. This is one of my favorites to enjoy with a fresh cup of tea drizzled in honey to match the smooth appeal of the album.
- Rell Be Free, 6 Pack Vol. 1
I’m a big supporter of Rell Be Free. His genuine approach to music makes his music flow naturally. This year he rolled out two packs of six songs with each pack featuring a different producer behind the beats. 6 Pack Vol. 1 featured frequent collaborator Noah Coinflip on the production. When compared to Vol. 2 which was produced by Dre’Zy, the first installment has a light bouncy feel to it, whereas the second installment is crispy, crunchy, thick like peanut butter be. However, when played back-to-back they come together fluidly and act as a cohesive unit.
- Shabazz Palaces, Robed in Rareness
Hands up wherever you at, because Shabazz Palaces gave us their mini album Robed in Rareness this year. The album has a floaty, effervescent vibe with the weight of the lyrics keeping everything grounded. We’d already seen plenty of incredible features but with the full project, we’re seeing a full range of talented artists- including Porter Ray, Lavarr the Starr, and Geechi Suede, who all fit effortlessly into the Shabazz universe.
The Soundscapists
- BrandonLee Cierley, Letters to Japan
In the EP Letters to Japan, saxophonist BrandonLee Cierley teamed up with producer POSY to create a lofi love letter to their heritage. Both being of Japanese descent, it was important for them to capture essences of that in this project. The soothing trio of songs blends universally appreciated chill beats with the unexpected intrigue of exceptional jazzy melodies.
- Grady, There You Have It
Grady is the producer and director of his own cinematic soundscapes. This year he gave us three different audio films to enjoy. He kicked off the year with the lighthearted comedy, Next Thing You Know. Following that up, he released the romantic coming-of-age story, Everything Happens So Fast. Then rounded out this year’s releases with the heartfelt and inspiring drama There You Have It- which was my personal favorite of the three, largely due to the beautiful scene featuring Dave Shanaé titled “End Of The Rainbow.”
- Kassa Overall, Animals
If you’re looking to enter an enigmatic world that drifts between the lines of sensible and experimental, look no further than Kassa Overall’s album Animals. Floating between the grounded nature of hip-hop and the effervescent wandering of modern jazz soundscapes. There’s always something around every corner to keep your ears on the edge of their seat.
- Lophiile, The Good Days Between
When we talk about capturing the essence of an environment, we need to talk about Lophiile’s production. The Good Days Between feels as if you’re walking in Queen Anne all the way to Elliot Bay or lying on the hill at Gas Works. It’s like walking off of the Light Rail into Columbia City or the moment you see the skyline come into view when going either direction on I-5. Aside from simply having a comforting feeling for me, the compositions throughout the album are well thought out and have an arc that guides your ears through each song.
- Noah Coinflip, Funnel for the Heavens
At times, Noah Coinflip’s production can feel light and airy, almost ethereal. Then, at times, it can hit with a deliberate strength. This year, he demonstrated the maturity of his compositions with the release of his album Funnel for the Heavens. Throughout the spiritual album, tiny, little, intricate details can be heard with layer after layer of intriguing sounds for your ears to dig through overtime.
Pushin’ P
- Crissy P, Silent Stepping Stones
Another shining star of the young generation within Seattle hip-hop, Crissy P has taken his lessons from his time in the Residency to establish himself as a promising artist on the rise. This year he released his album Silent Stepping Stones which ushered in a new era for his music. He takes a bold, confident approach to this album, yet the overall vibe remains calm and tranquil and is best served with a joint on the side.
- Khris P, New Flame
Although Khris P sounded the alarms with his project WHAT’S THE EMERGENCY?!, it was his follow up New Flame that fully engulfed my ears this year. As if the Louvre was on fire, Khris P’s latest album blends sweet soulful, almost angelic at times, undertones in the instrumentals with chunky bass lines and hollow drums that mimic that kind of juxtaposition between the beautifully iconic paintings with the modernity of the building’s famous pyramid that stands in the courtyard.
- Skatey P, Skatey Hawkins Tolo
What we see here is evolution. Every day Skatey P gets a little bit better, and we can see that growth with his album Skatey Hawkins Tolo. Whether it be Skatey’s impeccable and witty wordplay, or the subtle nuances that Gunior the Godfather layers into each beat, there’s something intriguing in every song.
Overall, Skatey Hawkins Tolo is a brilliant showcase of how far Skatey P has come in his artistry. It has a nice blend of modern approaches and classic deliveries that give it more of a timeless sound that will transcend the current moment and most likely become a cherished part of any fan’s collection for life.
The Spitters
- Angie Staxx, Hidden Gem
The album title says it all, Angie Staxx is a Hidden Gem from around the Sound. The raw spitter linked up with Ready Ron to put her heavy hitting verses over his larger-than-life beats. This is real deal, streets of Seattle type hip-hop that carries some grit and authenticity throughout. Tracks like “Art of War,” “No Secret,” and “Standing Tall” are some of my favorite standouts from the project that could knock any hip-hop head off their feet.
- La & Jester, Elevated Game
This year, LA released his project Elevated Game alongside producer Jester. The entire album completely reeks of Lemon Cherry Gelato as he casually sparks blunt bars verse after verse. Never letting off the gas, LA goes full throttle through the whole album. He represents what it really means to rap, crafting rhymes that stack witty wordplay with stories focused on his own life. Meanwhile, he continuously backs up his often-cocky approach with intelligent lyrics that make keen observations on the lack of effort in hip-hop today.
- Lexscope & Larry Roze, RAGE & Rozes
With a title like RAGE & Rozes you should already expect a duality to the album from Larry Roze and LexScope. These real-life brothers came together to produce a project that explores both chaos and romance throughout. At times it’s sweet and romantic with flows that fall like rose petals on the beat. Tracks like “Apocalypse” and “Heavy” tap into that vibe. Meanwhile, tracks like “Manic” and “NEON” exemplify the rage that these guys brought to the project.
- LROC, Love Addiction
I was L-rocking with everything LROC was releasing this year, but one project in particular stopped me in my tracks. It was just after 4am one night (morning?) in February and I was still awake but getting ready to go to bed when I found myself scrolling on Instagram. I scrolled past a snippet of LROC’s Love Addiction and was so struck by it that I ended up staying up, writing, and publishing an article about the album. One of the standout tracks, “Best Of Me,” even made it to my Spotify Wrapped playlist for 2023. His blend of romanticism mixed with the hustling mentality makes for an enticing sound that warmed my heart on that cold, cold day.
Now, if you’re not quite the romantic like myself, his album Juug God Larry and 4th of Juugly both satisfy the ears and showcase the best of LROC.
- Onry Ozzborn, BlvckBeachBoi
What I have always loved about Onry Ozzborn’s rhymes is that his references span from the most obscure to the most well-known pop culture and yet it always makes sense and fits together cohesively. On top of that, I’ve always loved his tone and approach because it is both raw and very matter of fact, yet warm and inviting making it easy to listen to at any point in the day.
All of these elements and more are reflected in his latest album BlvckBeachBoi. However, one of the biggest standouts for me was the different flows he would tap into and how effortlessly he’d slip into a smooth succession of bars that would nestle into the pocket of the beats crafted by Smoke M2D6.
- Rick Reams & Greg Cypher, James Bond Villain
Greg Cypher’s latest collaboration as a producer is a fresh project with rapper Rick Reams titled James Bond Villain. There’s a stimulating sense of urgency from start to finish that makes it easy for you to get up on your feet. Yet the way Rick and Greg deliver their clever rhymes feel as if you’re just casually kicking back with them in the studio. There is also an intriguing comfortability within James Bond Villain that simultaneously smacks you in the face while offering a soothing hug.
- Topp, Life’s Crazy
This year, we finally got the EP that Topp had been teasing for quite a while. This collection of tracks is intoxicating to listen to, and really highlights the well-rounded talents that Topp has as an artist. As well, I feel like the pace at which he crafted his EP Life’s Crazy reflects in all of the polished aspects from tracklist curation to his choice of featured artists, there’s not one detail out of place throughout.
- Travis Thompson & Jake One, Wolves and White T’s
In an iconic moment for Seattle hip-hop, established and critically acclaimed producer Jake One linked up with one of the new generation’s shining stars Travis Thompson for their collaborative album Wolves and White T’s. Making a splash in the industry, Travis locked in features from big names like Jay Worthy, Logic, Erick the Architect and even got Paul Wall on an interlude.
If you’ve ever lived in the Pacific Northwest, you know that feeling of the crisp, but not cold air, the coziness of a hoodie or Carhartt, and serenity of the water surrounding almost everything; the essence the PNW atmosphere and environment is infused into this album while Travis touches on aspects of life within the region.
- Tré Ross & Bryce Bowden, Edibles 2
Bryce Bowden and Tré Ross had already seen some success with the initial launch of their Edibles concept. This year, they followed it up with a sequel that was even more potent than the first batch. There are some anthems on this album, like “Reign Storm,” that have stuck with me all year. Overall, Edibles 2 showcases the growth that both of these artists have been through, reflecting on their lives as husbands and fathers.
All In The Groove
- All Day Trey, Sunrise 2 Sunset
All Day Trey shines a bright light of positive vibes from Sunrise to Sunset. Even though the topics he sings about aren’t always the happiest, it still has a sun-shiny feeling to it. Bouncy melodies and groovy beats come together to amplify that “frolic through the meadow” kind of sound. Trey’s renegade style of promotion, hitting the streets to connect his music to strangers, paid off as his album has seen some great traction in the first six months.
- Anthony Danza, We Got Plays To Make
Danza, Danza, Danza, my playlist has had Anthony Danza in heavy rotation for years now and 2023 was no different really. He had two offerings this year, my personal favorite We Got Plays To Make and the most recent release, Collection Plate with the standout single being “The Finer Things” featuring Kokane, Suga Free and Goldie Stacs.
On top of those bangin’ releases, he was also featured on the track “Be Aware” for the latest edition of The Tonite Show with DJ Fresh. The album is one big collaboration with some of the coldest artists in the game right now including Lil B, LaRussell, Jay Worthy, E-40, Larry June and many, many more.
- Gifted Gab, G-Body Music
Always balancing between the coldest rhymes and the warmest R&B vibes, Gifted Gab’s latest album G-Body Music is, in my opinion, her best project to date. Throughout the album she gives us a range of vocals from hard-hitting bars to sultry singing backed by clever lyrics, alongside a few impressive features including Swisher Sleep and the larger-than-life Suga Free.
- Greg Cypher, Summer Sampler
Greg Cypher has long been known as a top-tier rapper smothered in the boom bap spirit, but what we found out this year is he is also a prolific producer. In his debut self-produced album, Summer Sampler, he demonstrates why he thinks that he’s finally found his groove. The high-energy, sun-soaked project is perfect for the sunny season in Seattle.
- Grieves, Why Not?
For his latest album, Grieves asks, Why Not? Why not link up with Arizona’s Mouse Powell for one of the smoothest albums of the year? Why not throw a bunch of fire synthed-out melodies into the mix with central themes of love and relationships? Both Grieves and Mouse Powell exude this luscious air of confidence that presents itself in sharp, witty rhymes, fluid cadences that interact with the beat, and a light-hearted playful tone that makes it seem like the two artists were genuinely having fun in the studio together.
- OG Mambo, Pacific North Fresh
I promise you ain’t smoking like OG Mambo. He be higher than high, flyer than fly, and shows you exactly how fly he can be on his album Pacific North Fresh. Always paying tribute to Seattle, the album includes plenty of references to all things Northwest. The ultimate host, Mambo loves a party and made sure his album had the right balance between groovin’ and chillin’. So, whether you want to roll up and kick back or hit the dance floor, there is something on this album for you.
- Perry Porter and Baloogz, Chariot
Now we flowin’ and groovin’ and movin’ through the latest album from Perry Porter, the highly anticipated collaboration with Baloogz titled Chariot. The layers within the production create a fullness to the project that Perry’s vocals round out like a plush velvet throw wrapping around your body. The artists featured throughout give the album more depth for a listening experience like none other.
- SUS, You Over There
In a moment of meditation, SUS’ album You Over There came into my life. The serene offering from the soulful band is an overwhelmingly soothing record. The impressive EP showcases the wide range of talents from every individual in the band carrying universal healing properties that only really good music can attain.
- Taylar Elizza Beth & WD4D, Undercover Lovergirl
UNDERCOVER LOVERGIRL is undeniably some of the best work Taylar Elizza Beth has put out to date. It showcases not only her growth and development as an artist but as a human being as well. Taylar’s ability to seamlessly flow between hypnotizing melodies and delivering rapid fire rhymes that pelt your palette in between is on full display as WD4D curates the beats to emphasize her unique sound.
The Singer/Songwriters
- Anna Therese, Relief
Multi-talented singer, songwriter and violinist Anna Therese, released her EP Relief this year and its soothing nature has been living rent free in my head. At times her vocals are slinky and sultry, while other times she reaches for an ethereal tone. With some fairy tale-like qualities, Anna will make you feel as though you’re wandering through a fanciful forest.
- Archie, When Will It End?
In a moment of vulnerability and reflection, Archie gave us her album When Will It End? Sn intimate portrait of a period of growth, stand out tracks like, “Power (Get It),” and “Die 4 U,” are soaked in a newfound confidence and have catchy choruses and vibrant songwriting that exemplify the talent Archie brings to her personal brand of music.
- Charles Zaid, Waitin’ a Lifetime
Charles Zaid is right at the beginning of his journey as an artist and this year, the release of his EP Waitin’ a Lifetime, marked a turning point for the young artist. Charles effortlessly mixes passionate R&B vocals and catchy pop sensibilities with a sprinkle of bilingual flavor to round out his unique sound. Tackling the journey of coming out, Waitin’ A Lifetime seems like a cathartic release for the young artist as he commits to this next chapter in life in which he pursues his dreams while truly embracing himself and who he is to the fullest.
- Ellis Prescott, Until They See
There is a vulnerability and romance to Ellis Prescott’s music that has had me hooked since I was first introduced to his music. On his newest EP, Until They See, El opens up and speaks about how life has changed since becoming a father, touching on his relationships and lifestyle. His smooth delivery slides down the beat and into your ears effortlessly.
- La Fonda, We Are Infinite
Okay, so truthfully, my favorite time to listen to La Fonda is when I’m deep in a psychedelic high. Their brand of bedroom sleepover pop steeped in psilocybin with a bottle of whiskey on the side, is an easy getaway from the real world. Their album, We Are Infinite takes you out of your body to experience a new perspective through the La Fonda kaleidoscope lens.
- LIVt, I Just Want My Bitches To Fly
It’s really a simple concept: support your friends. In her latest EP, I Just Want My Bitches To Fly, LIVt takes that concept and expands on it with songs dedicated to those she loves as well as featuring talented artists she frequently collaborates with. From smooth and sultry crooning to bouncy rhymes that fly by the beat, this release is exceptional and easily some of her best work to date.
- Oranj Goodman, Juice
Take a swig of the fresh Juice that Oranj Goodman is pouring out on his sophomore album. The Native artist brings his unique perspective to the melodic rap realm with grounded beats that allows his melodic rhymes to float over the instrumentals. I feel like he is hitting his stride as an artist, exuding a more confident delivery while the overall composition is catchy and compelling for the listener from start to finish.
- Shayhan, Shayhan
The self-titled album from Shayhan is an ethereal exploration through the quirky corners of his brain. Like the beautiful landscape on the cover artwork, the project spans vast plains of organic sounds that range from bold and bright to whispers of whimsy that flow like a river throughout. In my opinion, to experience the album in its full glory, Shayhan is best listened to through headphones while somewhere out in nature ideally by a body of water.
Take a Trip to Portland
- Bocha, Everything Must Go
You want to talk about coming out the gate swinging? Bocha threw caution to the wind on his album EVERYTHING MUST GO. I’ve always loved the ferocity with which Bocha delivers his bars but in this project, in particular, he really struck a chord. In the theme of a blowout sale, Bocha gives us everything he has to offer with a variety of different moods and deliveries for a well-rounded album.
- Milc, The Fish That Saved Portland
Sprinkled with a little bit of “MSG,” Milc’s album The Fish That Saved Portland is another delicious collaboration with producer Televangel. Some might not consider Milc a poet, but the verses throughout this project prove otherwise as he delivers a heartfelt love letter to the area that raised him. I think overall this project takes the cake for best release of the year from Milc, however his collaboration with Goldenbeets, Horseradish, which dropped earlier in the year was a strong contender.
- Pricy, My Bad
This year, we saw Pricy deliver his album My Bad which has a funky nostalgic twist. The mostly upbeat album makes you want to jump up and get your groove on. The 11-track album flexes the best parts of Pricy’s flows with a variety of approaches to his delivery throughout. Most of the beats are riding on Dayton’s, exploring a variety of funk and soul samples that capture the essence of the West Coast.
- Wynne, Some Like It Hot
There is no doubt that Wynne hit a slam dunk in 2023. Between WORLDSTARHIPHOP premiering her music videos and the release of her EP Some Like It Hot, it’s obvious she was running the court all year. She has, without a doubt, some of the best wordplay in hip-hop, right now, period. You’re playing yourself if you don’t run this project back.
