In recent years, London has emerged as a hotbed of hip-hop talent, with new unknown rappers taking the American scene by storm. Despite being a genre that originated in America, hip-hop has found a deep connection with fans in the United Kingdom. So let me be the first to introduce you to the MC of your dreams, the woman with the plan and a sage with a story. The London rapper ENNY has made a mark with her newest project titled ‘We Go Again”. For all the chill hip-hop heads, this one feels like a love letter! This project is bound to have your future favorite song in it. My current favorite on the project has to be the low-key anti-love song “Charge It.” The song has a mellow and warm vibe that adds to any session of any kind. This may not be your first time hearing of ENNY, as her COLOR’S SHOW remix with Jorja Smith was an anthem for black girls all over the world and goes viral every time it pops up on the net. It’s clear ENNY is a student of the greats like Ms. Lauryn Hill and Erykah Badu, and I’m so excited to see where her growth will take her.
And another one on the scene, The 2022 single “Doja,” marked the bomb dropping on Central Cee! After the song went super viral, he became a rising star in the UK rap and hip-hop scene. The song is undeniably catchy, and the accent is hot! With a unique style and dynamic energy, he has become one of the most buzzed-about artists in the game. His music is a fusion of raw, gritty beats and catchy hooks, with lyrics that reflect his life growing up in London. His rhymes touch on stories of struggle, pain, and determination, often drawing on his personal experiences to create a lyrical canvas that resonates with audiences across the UK. Rapper Central Cee said in an interview with VICE, “Growing up in West London. It was wild; that’s the short and sweet answer. But you see, West London, yeah… Why I rep my area so hard is because West London is different from other areas – it’s so unique. Not many rappers in London come from where I come from, so I think it’s important that I embrace it.” Central Cee’s craft speaks to the growth of UK rap and hip-hop, rapidly gaining popularity in recent years. With more and more artists, like Central Cee, breaking onto the scene, it’s clear that UK rap and hip-hop are quickly becoming a dominant force in the global music world.
Dave and Central CEE come together to deliver a masterpiece of a project titled “Split Decision.” I am feeling all the collaborative projects coming out, and this one has got to be at the top of that list. This project is full of tongue-in-cheek verses and heavy 808s. In my opinion, the project’s standout has to be the lead single, “Sprinter.” This song has such a vibe; you could play it at the kickback or to work out. No matter what you’re doing, this song’s earworm can be playing in the background. Or at least it has been for me! Another standout song is “UK Rap,” if you can genuinely embrace the accent, this song also hits. But it’s not just about the lyrics and the flow of the rappers but also the beats and the production value. This is where Afro beats and classical music influences come in handy. The infusion of these genres leads to a unique, charming and unique sound. No other genre can deliver this kind of musical blend that is so distinct and complements the lyrics. This shows that hip-hop in the UK is a unique blend of influences from classical music to Afro beats. This eclectic fusion of music has made the genre even more exciting and has given birth to some of the best new rappers you should be listening to.
If you’re in the mood for something that will take your chill vibes to the next level, then “She’s A 10 But…” by ARTAN and Spencer Elmer is the song for you. This amazing example of UK hip-hop is a real head-nodder, with a low-fi, bass-heavy beat that creates an effortlessly laid-back aura. The simple yet catchy melody will have you humming it repeatedly, and the smooth rapping adds just the right amount of urban facade. You can hear this fusion in the beats and melodies used in the songs. It’s the perfect blend of old and new, redefining UK hip-hop into its own genre. This song inspired a popular filter on TikTok‘s social media app, further pushing the music up the charts! While the song may not have an overly complex message, it’s a perfect addition to any low-key playlist or laid-back party. Whether driving around town or just chilling at home, “She’s a 10 But…” is the perfect song to add to your soundtrack for relaxing moments. Could you give it a listen?
This is why the UK hip-hop scene produces some of the best new unknown rappers today. These rappers like ENNY, Central Cee, ARTAN, and Dave can deliver thought-provoking messages, visceral rhymes, and incredible melodies, all while backed up by a combination of beats that reflect their diverse experiences and influences. Hip-hop in the UK is not just replicating the American genre. Its unique identity and personality have a sound that pleases the ears and a flair that speaks to the heart. This is a genre that you should not only listen to but also celebrate. The new rappers coming out of London are making a statement and carving out a place for themselves in the global hip-hop scene. Their music reflects their life experiences and is a tribute to their diverse influences. It’s time to stop sleeping on UK hip- hop and start appreciating the new sounds these talented creators bring to the table.
