Commercial rap conversation often revolves around the same dozen or so artists, with the spotlight constricting further in regional rap discussions. This is especially true of Chicago.
Drill rap has dominated Chicago’s rap scene for several years now, and has been America’s primary lense into the state of the youth in the city. Though organic in its takeover, the Drill aesthetic has skewed the perception of life in Chiraq far toward the negative. Without a doubt, Chicago’s sustained gangbanging, violence and blight has driven the city and its youth to the brink. Despite the bullets and the bloodshed, artistry has bloomed. A musical renaissance has swept through the Windy City and brought a semblance of balance to the sordid narrative that has enraptured the mainstream since Chief Keef eloquently told the world how little he cares for fake Trues and snitches.
Here, HNHH is bringing attention to some of Chicago’s most notable non-Drill artists. In fairness, there are scores of incredibly talented rappers coming out the ‘Go. Only 15 are listed here. For those ignorant of Chi-town’s recent surge of artistry, these 15 acts make great starting points.
