This 26-year-old out of Birmingham claims to have the perfect balance of street and conscious content. Get familiar with Jabo…

Standout: “Flex”

Also check out: “Chill”

And: “Make It Work”

Name: Javan Micah Ishman

Age: 26

Hometown: Birmingham, Alabama

I grew up listening to: Pac, Big, UGK, Nas, Jay-Z, T.I., Jadakiss, OutKast, Goodie Mob, Cash Money, Dipset, Snoop, Joe Budden, Fab…Pretty much anything I could get my hands on. I never discriminated on East Coast, West Coast, or Midwest music. I embraced it all. I listened and learned from all the different forms and genres of hip-hop.

Most people dont know I: Have a college degree. When people think “rapper” they think “uneducated” for some odd reason. What they fail to realize is that a lot of their favorite artists went to college and are well educated.

My style has been compared to: T.I. and Bun B with a little Nas sprinkled in here and there. I have been told that I almost have a perfect balance of street and conscious content. I can go hard on a street record or a club record, but I can also touch the soul on a heartfelt record, or serenade the ladies on a love ballad.

My standout records and moments to date have been: The entire experience. From the grind, to building the buzz and getting confidence, to the stage. Just the whole rise and grind experience, but if I had to pick one, I would say getting a feature from Yo Gotti on my record “Drop” and just getting a chance to meet and work with legends such as Carl Thomas and Slim Thug.

My goal in hip-hop is: To help erase the stereotypes of the art form and the artist. Hip-hop is a very delicate and sophisticated form of music. Even though today it may seem that any and everybody can make a song or post a YouTube video, hip-hop is still a very complex art form and when done with time, thought, consciousness and awareness of how it affects the masses, it can be used to uplift the community and bring attention to issues that are important to it’s consumers. My goal is to touch as many as I can in a positive way through music, and be one of the most respected lyricists from the south.

I’m gonna be the next: I dont know, the next great artist I hope. Just the next guy to leave imprints of greatness in the game at a high level.

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @Jaboent and download Alabama Talking 2 on LiveMixtapes.
 

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Clemm Rishad’s already earned his victories behind the scenes, credited as a writer on Nicki Minaj’s Platinum-certified “Fly”. Now, the 25-year-old out of Tacoma, Washington looks to step into the spotlight himself.

Standout: “I Think I Love Her”

Also check out: “Forever” featuring Kurupt

And: “Beginning”

Name: Clemm Rishad

Age: 25

Hometown: Tacoma, WA

I grew up listening to: Everyone from The Temptations to OutKast, Nas and the whole Roc-A-Fella team. A lot of 90′s R&B and Hip-Hop. My parents raised us in the church so a lot of gospel music.

Most people don’t know I: Started rappin when I was 16

My style’s been compared to: Jay Z

My standout records an moments to date have been: Getting my first placement as a writer with Nikki Minaj on the single “Fly” which went Platinum and giving back knowledge of experience to my people.

My goal in Hip-Hop is: To bring back honesty and originality back to the craft. “The Freedom to be you” supaflyness.

I’m gonna be the next: Voice of my generation.

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This in-your-face duo out of Dallas are loud, obnoxious and a conscious rapper’s worst nightmare. They’re also kind of awesome. Get familiar with eOne’s latest signees, B Reed and Fooly Faime.

Standout: “Shawty Wassup”

Also check out: “Ain’t No Mo”

And: “All Gold Everything” featuring Dorrough

Names: B Reed & Fooly Faime, professionally known as Yung Nation

Age: 20 (both)

Hometown: Dallas, Texas aka 3D Land

We grew up listening to: UGK, Hot Boyz, OutKast, Boosie & Webbie, Three 6 Mafia, Lil Jon & Eastside Boys and Snoop.

Most people don’t know we: Get haircuts two times a week. The playamade fooly fade two times a week, ya feel us? Also, we lost our licenses, so we riding dirty like UGK.

Our style has been compared to: It’s really unique, I guess people have compared us to Kid N Play as far as our haircuts, fashion and performance. Music-wise, people compare us to DSR (some Dallas legends), Beastie Boys because of the rebellion and yelling and NWA because we wild and don’t give a flying fuck even if it was with Delta.

Our standout records and moments to date have been: “Club Rock”, “Pimp” and “Very Crucial” are huge online and in the streets. They keep the shows coming. Our new single “Shawty Wassup” is the one thats taking us mainstream. Its Nupid. Our biggest moment was selling out our hometown 3D Land Concert this past December. It was both our birthdays and a big statement to the music industry that Dallas artists can sell.

Our goal in Hip-Hop is: To do the never before done. Create a whole new lane that hasn’t been touched. We want to make nothing but big records and big albums for our fans, The Nation.

We’re gonna be the next: Generation. We bringing in the new Yungins. We wild, live carefree, but we about our cash ducks.

To check out more of our music: Follow us on Twitter @YungNation and check out YungNation.com. Also Facebook.com/OfficialYungNation.

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This Flatbush native has been featured on MTVU and opened for the likes of A$AP Rocky, Maino and M.O.P. Now, Danse Daimons is ready for his own headlining moment.

Standout: “Grown Ass Man”

Also check out: “Lost in Chaos”

And: “Champagne And My 40oz”

Name: Danse Daimons

Hometown: Flatbush, Brooklyn

I grew up listening to: I grew up listening to Nas, Pac and B.I.G. The L.O.X. is my favorite group of all time.

My style and skills have been compared to: Style-wise, I am more of the Nas cloth, that 90’s era swag. I stay true to the city. Skill-wise, I have heard people say Jadakiss, and I’m heavily influenced by that style of rap. He is a legend, someone I grew up listening to. Sometimes I feel uncomfortable when people say that, but the more I grow and I listen, I can see why they make those comparisions.

My standout records and moments to date have been: My “Moment for Life” remix got us out there and got me a lot of shows. We had a video titled “Grown Ass Man,” which was featured on MTVU. I was nominated for the MTVU Freshmen contest. Recently I opened up for Trinidad James at SOB’s. I performed at Dunk Xchange at Hammerstein Ballroom  on the same bill as A$AP Rocky. I have also opened for Maino and M.O.P.  I have opened for many in the city.

Most people don’t know I: Am a fan of all types of music. Most hip-hop people you would think are only fans or listen to rap, but I am a fan of all types of music. I listen to Adele, David Guetta, etc. These artists make music that really can strike a chord with you and whether you are a fan of that genre or not, you really have no choice but to move with them. I also graduated college, I have my bachelors and Masters.  Also, my shooter is a white girl with glasses and freckles.

I’d like to work with: I am doing an entire EP with Buda The Future. That will be crazy for New York. I would like to work with Bruno Mars.  I would like to do something with Los, Rittz or Smoke DZA too.

My goal in hip-hop is: To use my talents to create opportunities for others. I know sometimes people think they are the only people going through things, and when you hear something that resonates with you, you realize sometimes you are not alone. I want to change the lives of my families and friends and put them in a better position than they are in right now. I would love to grow my movement and be able to employ people from my area.

I’m gonna be the next:  Person to prove that anything is possible no matter the circumstances. When they give you nothing, take everything.

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @DANSESTICKUP

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Get familiar with Gist The Essence, who plans to follow in the footsteps of all the legendary Queens MCs that came before him.

Standout: “La La La”

Also check out: “Roller Coaster” ft. Cocoa Sarai

And: “Young, Gifted, & Black”

Name: Gist The Essence

Hometown: Queens Village, Queens NY

I grew up listening to: All kinds of music was played around my house, but of course Hip Hop is what got me. A whole lot of Nas. I’m from Queens, so he was like dopest rapper ever to me. I listened to Jay and a lot of other dope artists of the times. Next to them, I listened to a lot of T.I, and Kanye. I think they might have been the biggest motivating factor in making music for me. I think they both by far have the greatest song structures and carry out themes and topics in songs better than most.

Most people don’t know I: Went to Rutgers University and studied Criminal Justice with hopes of becoming a lawyer. I wanted to learn the system to try to help my people. I got my Bachelors but clearly I let go of that lawyer dream. It was mostly just to please my parents though.

My style has been compared to: Dope rappers that I respect and am honored to be likened too. I’ve heard Nas and Kanye. I’ve heard Wale and Cole. I’ve heard a lot of people over the years. It just depends on who hears it and what song they are hearing. I used to get upset, but I realize people gonna do it regardless and it’s better to be compared to dope artists than some wack rapper, and I haven’t heard that so that’s a win!

My standout records and moments to date have been: My last record “Roller Coaster,” which got me on MTV RapFix with Sway and eventually on tour with XXL Freshman alum, Fred The Godson for a few cities. I was blessed to do two mixtapes with DJ Envy. My first video “Young, Gifted & Black” has close to 600,000 views on YouTube. But I think this new record, “La La La” is opening a lot of new doors. Being featured here is proof, and I’m honored and thankful!

My goal in Hip-Hop is: Longevity! I don’t want to be one of those here today, gone tomorrow artists. I want to connect with people today and 10 years from now. Of course I want to be paid, but I’m more interested in lasting. And I think when the listeners feel you and can relate to what you are saying in your songs, you’re gonna be here for a minute.

I’m gonna be the next: Dope artist from Queens! My boro has a legacy in this game from Run DMC, LL, Tribe and Nas down to 50. When was the last time you heard a wack artist from Queens? I just want to the next one to carry on the legacy!

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @GistMusic and check my website for music and all that good stuff at www.gistmusic.com.

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A lazy critic might pass Awkwafina as a Kreayshawn knockoff, but the Queens, New York, native has much more to offer in her collection of witty concept-driven records and equally humorous visuals. Find out more about the 24-year-old rapper/producer, who has already taken shots at New York City transplants, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and vaginas.

Standout: “My Vag”

Also Check Out: “NYC Bitche$”

And: “Mayor Bloomberg (Giant Margaritas)”

Name: Awkwafina (Nora Lum)

Age: 24

Hometown: Queens, New York

I grew up listening to: Ace Of Base, Necro, Brian Eno and A Tribe Called Quest.

Most people don’t know: I was physically addicted to Tony Hawk’s American Wasteland for PS2.

My style’s been compared to: Daria and Christopher Walken.

My standout records and/or moments to date have been: The moment Asa Akira tweeted a picture of her listening to “My Vag” in her car.

My goal in hip-hop is: To allow for other young women to say it’s okay to do you.

I’m gonna be the next: Swagged-out Teletubby.

To check out more of my music go to: Awkwafina.com.

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This 26-year-old out of Baltimore isn’t brushing off the A-list comparisons he’s received, but he’s ready to add his own chapter to the game as well. Get familiar with Rickie Jacobs.

Standout:“’86 Draft”

RICKIE JACOBS 86 DRAFT from JSN JHNSN on Vimeo.

Also check out: “Sour Cream”

And: “Hey America”

Name: Rickie Jacobs

Age: 26

Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland

I grew up listening to: Snoop Dogg and Wu Tang Clan

Most people don’t know I: Don’t listen to rap as much as the average rapper. Having a variety of music in my collection keeps me from following the typical format.

My style’s been compared to: I don’t get too many comparisons but people that don’t make music compare me to Drake. I honestly don’t know why, but I can’t complain I guess [Laughs].

My standout records and moments to date have been: “Aiden” is by far my best record. I wrote that song for my son. It’s personal and it means a lot to me. Talking to Sean Price on the phone before my SXSW performance last year was one of the best things that happened to me. P gave me a lot of advice. He’s a very honest dude that could care less how you feel and has no problem with giving it to you straight up. I learned a lot from him.

My goal in Hip-Hop is: To stay relevant, grow, and become one of the best to do it, if not the greatest. I want to be talked about in barber shops and hair salons because I like when women talk good things about me! [Laughs]

I’m gonna be the next: I can only be me. The beauty of this culture is even when you get compared to the best, you add your own chapter. That’s my goal.

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @RickieJacobs and check me out on Facebook and RickieJacobs.com

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Last week, Chill Will appeared on The New New: 15 Atlanta Rappers You Need To Know. Today, get to know the 26-year-old out of Zone 6, who’s already worked with the elite of his hometown, including Gucci Mane, Future, Waka Flocka and Rocko.

Standout: “Certain Way”

Also check out: “So Terrific” ft. Ca$hOut

And: “Dope Dance”

Name: Chill Will

Age: 26

Hometown: Zone 6 Eastside

I grew up listening to: Southern hip-hop. T.I., Jeezy, Gucci Mane, Rick Ross and 50 Cent.

Most people don’t know: How long I have waited and prepared for this moment, unlike others who say they just woke up one day and started doing this.

My style has been compared to: The likes of Rick Ross mixed with Gucci Mane, with a young nigga swag.

My standout records to date have been: Gucci Mane’s “Careless And Reckless” featuring Future. “Street Stars” featuring Rocko and “Spazz Out” featuring Waka Flocka.

My goal in hip-hop is: To please the fans and dominate the competition.

I’m gonna be the next: King

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @1426ChillWill

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This 20-year-old out of Boston is fresh off the release of his Fashionably Late EP from earlier this month. Today, get familiar with Gio Dee, who’s looking to create a new sound for Beantown.

Standout: “Growth”

Also check out: “#TOTB: This is Only The Beginning”

And: “The Way It Goes”

Name: Gio Dee

Age: 20

Hometown: Boston, MA

I grew up listening to: 2Pac, Cash Money, Dipset, D-Block, 50 Cent, DMX, & OutKast

Most people don’t know I: Am the leader of The group #ChefBoyz From Boston, MA. Our Motto is “We Are #Chefs In The Kitchen of Opportunity, Cooking Up Success.”

My style has been compared to: Mainly Lil Wayne, Drake & Kanye West.

My standout records to date have been: A lot of my standout records that were released can be found on my recent Fashionably Late EP.

My goal in Hip-Hop is: To let people know that Boston has talent and to raise the bar for artists everywhere, and to create a new sound for my city.

I’m gonna be the next: Gio Dee.

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @IamGio_Dee and check me out at www.GioDee.com

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A muralist, designer and MC, STACE already has his eyes set on next year’s XXL Freshman cover. Get familiar with this 29-year-old out of Mount Vernon, New York.

Standout: “It’s Getting Harder To Cheat”

Also check out: “Holy Batman”

And: “Caesar”

Name: STACE

Age: 29

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It’s been a rough month for 1017 Brick Squad, from Waka’s departure from the label to Gucci Mane and Young Scooter reportedly sharing a cell at the moment in Dekalb County Jail. So it’s only right we shine some light on some of the good things coming out of the imprint. Meet PeeWee Longway, the ATL upstart who dropped his collaborative mixtape alongside Guwop last month.

Standout: “James Bond”

Also check out: Gucci Mane ft. Waka Flocka Flame & PeeWee Longway “Breakfast”

And: “John Dillinger”

Name: PeeWee Longway

Age: 20 somethin’

Hometown: ATL

I grew up listening to: HIP HOP

Most people don’t know I:‘m not a rapper. I just woke up and said I’m gone do it

My style has been compared to: No other. #LONGWAYBOND

My standout records to date have been: “Breakfast”, “James Bond” and “John Dillinger”

My goal in hip-hop is: To get those industry M&M’s M&M.

I’m gonna be the next: To do it like no other and succeed the right way. I feel the direction I’m going in gonna to open new lanes for others that can’t. I also want to be the next “biggest” rapper in hip-hop to make history. Get those blue M&M’s M&M. #MPABANDCAMP

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @PeeWeeLongway and download Money,Pounds, Ammunition at LiveMixtapes.com

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Standout: “Raise Your Weapon”

Also check out: “Underground Kingz”

And: “Bad Guy”

Name: Doley Bernays

Age: 22

Hometown: Bronx, Uptown

My style and skills have been compared to: Honestly I dont even listen to comparisons. I’m Doley, 1 of 1. People feel my radical views and upbringing on the streets mixed with my love for poetry and deep literature could be seen in Tupac.

My standout records and moments to date have been: My first street single “Bad Guy” being released for my new EP Just In Case produced by Top Dawg Entertainment’s Willie B. Having Kendrick Lamar producer telling me I got it to make it big was a great feeling.

I’m gonna change the game by: Bringing it back to lyricism. Showing that just cause you come from the streets and rap about your upbringing, it doesn’t have to be complete ignorance. I bring my real life to rap. In the Bronx, it’s grimey out here, but at the same time without school I’ve educated myself well beyond my years.

I’d like to work with: I love to make timeless music so my goals would be to work with legendary producers rather then rappers. Kanye West, Pharell, Just Blaze, 40 and new producers like Young Chop and Mike Will Made It.

My goal in hip-hop is: To be the greatest. I don’t wanna be the humble quiet kid. I wanna work my ass off and my presence will match my work ethic and my mind state will match my acheivements.

I’m gonna be the next: I wont be the next anything, but I will be the first Doley Bernays. The first to make it famous out my hood, my building and my family.

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @Doley_Bernays.

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MC Melodee has already collaborated with the likes of Mac Miller, Fiend and DJ Whoo Kid. She’s also worked extensively with Spanish production duo Cookin’ Soul. It’s about time you get familiar with this spittress out of Holland.

Standout: “Ain’t My Style”

Also check out: “Genius” ft. Mac Miller

And: “Check Out Melodee”

Name: MC Melodee

Age: Twenty Something

Hometown: Amsterdam.

Most people don’t know I: Finished my studies at a University. In Holland I am considered a doctor. I got my degree man (laughs.)

My style and skills have been compared to:  A blend of MC Lyte and Lauryn Hill. Style-wise, people compare me to Shiela E. A combination of vintage hip-hop elements with some new flash. Very colorful at times. Street but also sexy.

My standout records and moments to date have been: Well I went on tour with Stones Throw in Europe which was ill.  I also toured in Japan. On my most recent mixtape Check Out Melodee I did a collaboration with Mac Miller titled “Genius.” In the states I have performed on Q-Tip’s Night at Santos in NYC, at CMJ and SXSW.

I’d like to work with: A lot of dope artists. Chuck Inglish & Mikey Rocks for instance. Pac Div is also dope. Next to that I would love to work with dope artists like Madlib, Dam Funk, Jose James, and the list goes on.

My goal in hip-hop is:  To keep it alive and spread the feel good vibe that I bring while creating music. I love the rawness of hip-hop and the soulful incorporation of different sounds in production. I would love to continue to emphasize those elements in hip-hop.

I’m gonna be the next: Queen of Holland? (laughs) I don’t like to compare myself to other emcees. People say MC Lyte. Others say I will be like M.I.A. I am more focused on being a better version on myself. MC Melodee 2.0. I am just getting started.

To check out more of my music: Catch me on Twitter @MCMelodee and catch my music on www.mcmelodee.com

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The Migos have been making noise in Atlanta’s indie scene off the strength of their trap house anthem “Bando”. Get to know the three man gang rumored to be joining Gucci Mane’s 1017 Brick Squad roster.

Standout: “Bando”

Also check out: “FEMA”

And: “Holmes” ft. Gucci Mane & Young Scooter

Name: Migos

Age: Young & Rich

Hometown: Born in Athens, Georgia but raised in North Atlanta.

We grew up listening to: A lot of Atlanta hip-hop. When we were coming up as kids, Atlanta was also on the come up in the rap game and we listened to groups like Goodie Mob and Outkast. Then we started listening to artist like Gucci Mane as a different era of hip hop came out of Atlanta.

Most people don’t know we: Played on our high school football team and we also play basketball for fun. We always been ‘jumpin out the gym’.

Our style has been compared to: No one. We haven’t been compared to any other artist or group. Our sound and style is so different. We created our own lane.

Our standout records and moments to date have been: Our standout record has to be “Versace.” We got a lot of positive response from our fans with that record. Our standout moment was our first big headlining show in Valdosta, Georgia. Performing for a crowd of our fans, who knew every word to every song, for the first time was crazy.

Our goal in hip-hop is: To give our fans more than what’s anticipated and to make nothing but multi-Platinum records.

We are gonna be the next: Top-selling, chart-topping, multi-Platinum selling group.

To check out more of our music: Follow us on Twitter @MIGOSATL and check us out at www.migos-atl.com.

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He’s been called “The Cigarette Burn Rap King.” Get familiar with this 26-year-old out of Seattle who recently released his revealing, open book of an album, Flowers For My Father.

Standout: “Russian Roulette”

Also check out: “City in Amber”

And: “Kill the King”

Name: Sadistik

Age: 26

Hometown: Seattle

I grew up listening to: I fell in love with rap at an early age. I was really into West Coast music, like Dogg Pound, Above the Law, and DJ Quik as well as some of the darker Southern rap: Three Six Mafia, UGK, 8Ball & MJG, Goodie Mob and Outkast. I also have my phases of only listening to gritty East Coast rap like Nas, AZ, Mobb Deep, etc. I think a lot of people assume I grew up listening to some of the indie rappers I get compared to at times, but I was obsessed with rap music long before I even knew those people existed. 

Most people don’t know I: Am obsessed with film, particularly horror and arthouse. I have a collection of cult movies that’s a little ridiculous. Particularly movies from the 70s tends to inspire me heavily. I’m also secretly academic. I was doing interviews to go into PhD programs for clinical psychology, but I decided to put that off to rap. Maybe one day.

My style’s been compared to: A myriad of people, but I don’t really like the comparison game. A magazine recently called me “the cigarette burn rap king,” and I thought that one might be okay. 

My standout records and moments to date have been: Earning the respect of some of my favorite artists and artists who have influenced me has been humbling and exciting. I’m really proud of a my new record, Flowers For My Father, but I would say I’m particularly fond of the song on there “Russian Roulette,” which features Cage, and “Snow White.” I like the colors those two songs make me think of. 

My goal in hip hop is: To express myself honestly and creatively. I want to push the latter as far as I can while keeping my integrity intact. I want to make music for the unsung, you know?

I’m gonna be the next: I have no idea, but hopefully I’ll be the next person that there was only one of. 

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @TheRealSadistik and check me out at www.sadistikmusic.com.

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Last month, That Kid Era dropped his new mixtape Mr. ILLington. Today, get familiar with this Bronx-born, Westchester-bred MC who came up on hip hop’s golden era.

 Standout: “Illy”

Also check out: “Everything”

And: “Sound of Dedication”

Name: THAT KID ERA

Age: 24

Hometown: Westchester, New York.  Silver Lake/WhitePlains to be exact.

I grew up listening to: Nas, Wu Tang, Tribe, Big L, Lox…. to keep it short the golden era of New York hip hop.  I used to steal my older cousins tapes then Napster came out and it was over.

Most people don’t know I:  Was adopted. People say I look like my folks. Also a lot of people don’t know that the name Era came from the sound of a DJ scratch when I was in middle school.

My style has been compared to: Growing up I heard Fabolous a lot, but I think I’ve ventured away from that now and havent heard that in a while. Tough for me to say about my own music, I’ll let the listeners judge.

My standout records and or moments to date have been: My newest single “iLLy“ from my mixtape Mr. iLLington has definitely been one of the standout recordsto date.  The video did 50k views in 24 hours on VEVO but besides the numbers it’s been getting a good reaction from people that I listen to music with, which always means more than numbers.

My goal in Hip-Hop is: To give more of a voice to middle class america.  And doing it while steering clear of college rap, stoner rap or any other trends. My goal is to make the music personal by storytelling.  I got a couple records on my mixtape that people come up to me and say ‘Damn that was deep. That happened to one of my friends too or I listen to your tape when I’m going through this or that.’

I’m gonna be the next: Rapper to tour the world with good music.  I keep the answer simple because I’m a simple person.  I strive hard to be the best I can be and take pride in my lyrics but I don’t care about being the best ever. I’d rather stay humble, make trill shit and provide vibes for people that appreciate hip hop.

To check out more of my music: THAT KID ERA. Suck a D and go Google it.

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Earlier this year, Sikai dropped his Painkilling: 1500 mixtape. Today, get familiar with the 24-year-old out of Stamford, Connecticut, who channels a wide array of musical influences into his craft.

Standout: “Never Let Go”

Also check out: “D.R.U.G.S.”

And: “The Goodness”

Name: Sikai

Age: 24 & 1/4

Hometown: Stamford, CT

I grew up listening to: Everything, but mostly Michael Jackson, Mase, Nas, and a mixture of Rock music.

Most people don’t know I: Play golf and I’m slightly good at it, but definitely the best bowler ever invented.

My style has been compared to: Jay-Z, J Cole, ASAP Rocky, Joe Budden, & Young Joc?!?

My standout records and moments to date have been: “Never Let Go” shows my Rock influence and versatility. It also helps people get a feel for me as an experimental artist with respect for music making. My standout moment would have to be dropping my Painkilling: 1500Mg project this year and receiving so much love and appreciation from fans all over the world. It’s a beautiful feeling to be able to have that connection to people with similar stories, no matter where they’re from.

My goal in Hip-Hop is: To separate the real from the fake, the boys from the men, and all the winners from the busters! Honestly, I just want to be the one that you remember 10 to 20 years down the line as an influential artist and person, not just a rapper. People sometimes underestimate the power of words and having a voice, but then you have legends like Bob Marley and Martin Luther King Jr., whose words and voices have lived on long after them. That’s what makes them unforgettable, and no matter what you can never take that from them. I want to be unforgettable.

I’m gonna be the next: XXL Freshman to have a successful debut album and career. I will also be the next biggest sex symbol since the Milli Vanilli guys. Mark my words with a very serious face. You know it’s true!

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @SikaiMusic and check me out at www.sikaimusic.com

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Get familiar with Oakland’s GQ, who 9th Wonder calls his “secret weapon” at Jamla Records. The former UNC Tarheel is fresh off the release of Death Threats & Love Notes: The Prequel:, a precursor to his debut album under Jamla.

Standout: “The Town”

Also check out: “Im Gone”

And: “Last Breath”

Name: GQ (Quentin Thomas)

Age: 27

Hometown: Oakland, California

I grew up listening to: Tupac, Biggie, Jay-Z, Outkast, Snoop, Ice Cube, Eminem, DMX, Too Short, The Luniz, Wayne… The list is endless.

Most people don’t know I: Love watching cartoons (especially old school cartoons like The Flinstones, Jetsons, Pink Panther, etc.) and HGTV (Property Brothers, House Hunters and Million Dollar Homes are my favorites)

I’ve been compared to: Not too sure…

My standout moment to date has been: Making it out of Oakland positively, graduating from UNC with a NCAA Basketball Championship ring, being an artist on Jamla Records, and having my debut video reach the #8 spot on BET’s 106 and Park countdown.

My goal in Hip-Hop is: To tell my story and the story of others who couldn’t tell theirs, while giving people good music they can not only listen to but feel.

I’m gonna be the next: One from Oakland to show the light of my city.

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @LifeofGQ or check me out at LifeofGQ.com. Check out my latest project Death Threats & Love Notes: The Prelude on iTunes.

The post The Break Presents: GQ appeared first on XXL.

Last month, we premiered Rich Kidd’s “Syke”, the first release off the 25-year-old’s upcoming In My Opinion mixtape. Today, get familiar with the Toronto native who knocks out the occasional screenplay in addition to rapping and producing.

Standout: “Syke”

Also check out: “Boiling Point”

And: “Beautiful Day”

Name: Ritchie Acheampong aka Rich Kidd

Age: 25

Hometown: Toronto

I grew up listening to: Everything under the sun.

Most people don’t know I: Write screenplays and directed a short film.

My style has been compared to: Saukrates & Kool G Rap

My standout records to date have been: As far as my own joints, “Syke”. I produced on Drake’s Comeback Season mixtape and “On The Run(I Wish I Knew Natalie Portman)” for K-os.

My goal in hip hop is: To introduce my sound and create a lane for others who have similar styles.

I’m gonna be the next: Rich Kidd

To check out more of my music: Follow me on Twitter @RichKiddBeats or check me out on Facebook or www.RichKiddBeats.com

The post The Break Presents: Rich Kidd appeared first on XXL.

Get familiar with this 22-year-old out of North Carolina, who just recently dropped his Don Cannon-hosted Root of all Evil mixtape.

Standout: “Boss’d Up”

Also check out: “No Comprende”

And: “I Don’t Love Her”

Name: B Stacks

Age: 22

Hometown: Durham, NC

I grew up listening to: The Hot Boys, No Limit and the Ruff Ryders.

Most people don’t know I: Am extremely humble and determined. I’m filled with ambition and belief

My style has been compared to: Early Lil Wayne, Wale, Jay Z

My standout records and moments to date have been: “Jealousy”, “I Want It All”, and “Can I Win”, off my Root of All Evil mixtape.

My goal in hip hop is: To change the identity of my home state and create my own legacy.

I’m gonna be the next: Multi-million dollar African American mogul to come from the streets to the boardroom.

To check out more of my music go to: Follow me on Twitter @ThisIsBStacks or check me out on Facebook.

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