Detroit's Rising Rap Stars: Six Essential Artists Shaping the Scene

Over the past decade, hip hop has experienced explosive growth on a global scale, driven by the emergence of fresh, innovative artists. While cities like New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Miami have long been celebrated as hip hop powerhouses, Detroit is rapidly earning its place among them. What sets Detroit apart is its distinctive, rule-defying style—instantly recognizable and uniquely its own. In this feature, we’ll delve into the factors behind Detroit's rise and spotlight some of the most influential artists from the Motor City.

1.Peezy

Leading Detroit’s ascent is Peezy, a trailblazer who has been instrumental in defining the city’s musical landscape. Since his debut in 2012, Peezy has been a driving force in Detroit’s hip hop scene, but it was his ‘MudMuzik’ mixtape series in 2016 that launched him into the national conversation. Now, at 32, Peezy continues to be a central figure in Detroit's hip hop evolution, with his 2022 album, ‘ONLY BUILT 4 DIAMOND LINKS,’ racking up millions of streams and solidifying his impact on the city's dynamic musical identity.

2.YN Jay

Following Peezy is YN Jay, another major figure in the Detroit rap scene who brings a fresh, unconventional style to the table. Known for his playful lyrics and spontaneous delivery, YN Jay has mastered the art of making the unexpected work. His off-the-cuff approach to rapping, where he effortlessly rides the beat with whatever comes to mind, has resonated with audiences, earning him widespread success and cementing his place as one of Detroit's most unique voices. Be sure to check out ‘Summer Time,’ ‘Better Days,’ and of course, ‘Triple S.’

3.Baby Smoove

Next on the list is a personal favourite of the New Wave team—Baby Smoove. The Michigan-born artist embodies everything that has defined Detroit rap in recent years. With his laid-back flow, sharp lyrics, and a sound that’s both gritty and hypnotic, Baby Smoove showcases the essence of Detroit’s rap renaissance throughout his entire discography. Whether you're new to his music or a long-time fan, tracks like ‘Akorn’ and ‘Raw Sippa’ are must-listens if you want to experience the true essence of the rapidly evolving Detroit rap scene.

Veeze

Continuing with Veeze, another Detroit artist who stands out for his distinct Chicago-style flow and rhythm. While his approach differs slightly from the other artists highlighted here, Veeze's music still captures the essence of Detroit’s hip hop resurgence. His work exemplifies the diversity and richness of the city’s sound, making him a must-listen for anyone looking to explore the genre further. Veeze is best known for his tracks ‘Not a Drill,’ ‘Get Lucki,’ and ‘Safe 2.’

Babyface Ray

If you’re a fan of Veeze’s music, you’ll definitely want to check out Babyface Ray, one of Detroit’s most prominent artists. Babyface Ray has solidified his place in the city’s hip-hop scene with his distinctive style, combining introspective lyrics with a cool, laid-back delivery. His music captures the essence of Detroit’s sound, reflecting both the struggles and successes of life in the Motor City. With tracks like ‘Paperwork Party’ and ‘If You Know You Know,’ he is a force to be reckoned with in the city’s hip-hop resurgence.

Rio Da Yung Og

Finally, it would be remiss not to mention Rio Da Yung Og. At 30, he boasts one of the most compelling discographies coming out of Detroit, consistently delivering hit after hit. Known for his raw, unfiltered lyrics and an unmistakable flow, Rio has firmly established himself as a cornerstone of the Detroit rap scene. Tracks like ‘Lean Chronicles,’ ‘Legendary,’ and ‘Last Day Out’ showcase his gritty storytelling and have solidified his position as one of the city's top talents in recent years.