In the world of hip-hop, we hope 2017 will be just as awesome as 2016 was, with its many surprises from new album releases to the introduction of new musicians in the limelight. Despite the challenges some of the musicians experienced, there were several great releases. The rise of some musicians has created a buzz and generated musical hype, especially 2016’s breakout star Chance The Rapper, who received seven Grammy nominations. This has severed has inspiration and should elevate artists to greater levels in 2017.

Here are five rappers making big waves in the hip-hop industry . . .

YFN Lucci

This rapper has actively contributed to the dominance of Atlanta hip-hop. Appearing alongside artists such as Meek Mill, Yo Gotti, and 2 Chainz, he has received wide recognition as one of the most promising upcoming artists. To top it all, his hit “Key To the Streets” featuring Migos has received national recognition. In music circles, it is believed that a hit begets more hits and that is true with this artiste. The rapper has managed to revamp the sound of his hit releases with his new track “Everyday We Lit” featuring vocalist PnB Rock.

Amine

This rapper came into the limelight some time last year. As the year was coming to an end, his hit “Caroline” was number 12 on the Hot 100 chats. His style is easygoing, laid back, and shows a lot of ambition. He says when he wrote the song he was hoping to create the modern day “Billie Jean”. Once he clinched the spotlight, he did not waste any time using his voice and lyrics in protest including his Tonight Show performance that was widely viewed as a protest against Donald Trump. His hits and performances have piqued the curiosity of his listeners enabling him to gain a huge following in return.

Princess Nokia

Her September mixtape titled 1992 has helped her cover plenty of ground. Her syllable rapping style that has the crowd in love with her “90s New York beats” easily transitions to club tracks such as “Kitana”. Her flexibility enables her to deliver calm couplets and assertive tracks all in one breath. These make her one of the promising rappers of 2017.

Kodie Shane

It is well known that Lil Yachty came into the limelight after his guest verse on Broccoli was nominated for the Grammy. He has garnered more than 60 million streams on his “1Night” single. However, Kodie Shane is seen as the rapper that might further take Yachty’s musical genius to the next level. Her mixtape titled “Zero gravity” is precise and sharp with an infusion of rap, catchy beats, and melody. Her duet with Yachty released towards the end of the year is still making the airwaves.

Dae Dae

The 24-year-old rapper made his first appearance into the hip-hop industry in 2014 and is finally getting the recognition he deserves. His 2015 hit “What U Mean” had over ten million views on YouTube and ended up in the Billboard chart. It has become the anthem for Atlanta and the rapper continues to show that he is in the game to stay. The rapper has range and has gone ahead to use music to address Black Lives Matter and express his views. As long as he can maintain momentum, 2017 is indeed his year.

Big things coming in 2017

These five rappers will be making noise this year. Mark my words.

Guest Contributor: Kevin Kennedy