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This year, New Wave Magazine will be covering Rolling Loud Portugal 2023, the world's largest hip-hop festival! With RL heading back to Portugal, Portimão for yet another unforgettable weekend of music, culture, and sunshine, the festival makes it's appearance after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With Rolling Loud set to return with a bang, it features a star-studded line-up of some of the hottest names in hip-hop and rap right now. With New Wave always championing the best hip-hop and rap music on the publication online and in print as well, it only makes sense that we'd check it out.
Luckily, whether you're attending or not, you can be sure to catch up on everything you've missed right here on New Wave. And if you're thinking of getting tickets to bask in the Algarve sunshine, here's why you just can't miss it and check out a few artists we're looking forward to seeing:
As usual, Rolling Loud Portugal is offering a stellar line-up. Rolling Loud is renowned for its unparalleled line-up of performers, and the 2023 Portugal festival is shaping up to be no exception. Compared to previous years, fans will be seeing some of the worlds biggest musicians take the stage, with a mix of veteran artists and up-and-coming talent. With the 2023 roster featuring headliners Travis Scott, Playboi Cardi and Meek Mill, fans are expecting an event they can rage, mosh and jump to to their hearts content.
Portugal couldn't be a better location! The festival takes place in Praia da Rocha, a stunning beach resort town located in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. The festival grounds are situated on the beachfront, with stages set up along the shore and the stunning ocean as a backdrop. This location provides a unique and beautiful setting for the festival, offering attendees the opportunity to soak up the sun, surf, and sand in between sets. The festival also has a fantastic sense of culture and community. Rolling Loud is more than just a music festival. It's a celebration of hip-hop culture and a gathering of like-minded individuals who share a passion for the music, the art, and the community.
Things we love about music festivals aren't always just the artists we're dying to see, but also the ones we've probably never heard of or thought to check out live. Rolling Loud is known for showcasing up-and-coming talent alongside established stars such as, providing a platform for emerging artists to reach new audiences. Attending the festival gives you the chance to discover new music and potentially witness the birth of the next big thing in hip-hop. New Wave love the feel of a show most of all and perhaps the most compelling reason why we want to attend Rolling Loud Portugal is the atmosphere. The festival brings together people from all walks of life who share a love of hip-hop and a desire to connect with others who feel the same. The energy and excitement at Rolling Loud is infectious, with attendees dancing, singing, and vibing to the music alongside thousands of other fans from around the world. It's an unforgettable experience.
So, who are New Wave most excited to see?
Bktherula
Bktherula is an up-and-coming rapper and singer-songwriter from Atlanta, Georgia, known for her unique style and introspective lyrics. She first gained attention in the music industry with her 2019 debut single 'Tweakin' Together' which has since amassed millions of streams on various platforms. Bktherula's music is often characterized by dreamy, atmospheric production and introspective, emotionally charged lyrics that touch on themes such as mental health, relationships, and self-discovery. Her ability to connect with listeners through her lyrics and create a distinct sound has earned her a growing fan base and critical acclaim.
K-Trap
K-Trap is a British rapper and songwriter known for this distinct style and compelling storytelling. Hailing from South London, he is one of the most exciting new voices in UK rap with a string of successful singles and collaborations under his belt. Characterised by his gritty, street-level anecdotes, he touches on crime, poverty and social inequality and has been praised for his lyrical prowess and ability to paint pictures with his words.
Xavier Wulf
American rapper Xavier Wulf promises us dark beats and introspective lyrics. Drawing inspiration from horror films, video games and anime, he's collaborated with some of the most interesting musicians such as Bones, Chris Travis, Skepta and IDK.
Shaybo
British rapper Shaybo from South London first gained attention in 2019 with her debut single 'Ya Dun Know' which went viral on social media, establishing her with the 'Queen of the South' title. With her confident and hard-hitting delivery, Shaybo blends grime, hip-hop as well as empowerment, self-belief and personal growth. Previously being praised for her energetic and charismatic live performances, we're readying ourselves to immerse ourselves in all things Shaybo.
Destroy Lonely
Part of Playboi Carti's Opium label, Destroy Lonely is a rapper who is having great success with his unique style and flair of producing. With his breakout project No Stylist fuelling his career, Destroy Lonely is bass-heavy with fleeting BPM's that are guaranteed to get the crowd jumping.
Rolling Loud Portugal Festival 2023 promises to be an exciting event for hip-hop fans and music lovers alike. With a stellar line-up, beautiful location, and unique culture and community, there's something for everyone at Rolling Loud. Don't miss your chance to be a part of it, we're not!
Who are you most excited to see perform? Let us know in the comments!
Rolling Loud Portugal 2023 takes place between 5-7th July. Tickets can be purchased here.