2011 Freshmen Top 10

Usually around this time of year, XXL Magazine runs a cover story on the top 10 “freshmen” MCs that are making noise in the streets (internet) and the industry. XXL’s January issue had Dr. Dre on the front, and a week or so ago, they released a shot of their February cover which will formally introduce Eminem’s new Shady Records signees, Slaughterhouse (lyrical super group consisting of Royce da 5’9”, Crooked I, Joe Budden and Joell Ortiz) and Yelawolf. I’m not disappointed by either one of these cover stories, as both are big news and worthy interviews. However, I’m now wondering if XXL will get around to printing a Freshmen Top 10 this year. So I decided to create my own list of the top 10 rap acts on the come up. Some artists from XXL’s list last year still haven’t released an “official” major label album, but through touring and mixtapes have still carved out a spot for themselves in the national spotlight (e.g. Wiz Khalifa, J. Cole); technically, some might still call them freshmen, but I won’t include them on the list for a second time. But if I missed anyone else that you feel is worthy, drop a comment and let it be known. And vote for your favorite from my top 10 under my Twitter on the right side of the page.


10. Chiddy Bang – this band/duo from Philadelphia showcases the fusion of hip-hop, alternative and pop, a sound that is gaining popularity right now, especially with younger and college-aged audiences. This MC/producer combo has gained a lot of notoriety in a short amount of time, accruing a major UK following and making an appearance at Lollapalooza in Chicago.



9. Vado – This Harlem native is best known for his association with Dipset general Cam’ron and their group The U.N. He brings that same flashy, laid-back swag that Cam, Juelz and Jim Jones made popular a few years back, but he spits with more intensity, like an older version of Cam when he was in his prime.



8. XV – Wichita, Kansas native XV has amassed an online following like no other, and with good reason because he is constantly flooding the ‘net with new material. Since 2006, he has released 15 mixtapes, appealing largely to the backpacker and cool kid following. He recently inked a deal with Warner Bros. and is set to release his official debut sometime in 2011.



7. Smoke DZA – Being a major attraction on a national independent tour is not to be taken lightly, especially when the bill includes other notables like Curren$y, Big K.R.I.T. and Mac Miller, to name a few. Smoke DZA has crafted his own flavor of smokers’ rap, and fans love it. Watch out for how big his movement has the potential to become, as well as what else he may be capable of.



6. Kendrick Lamar – Real name, no gimmicks, LA representer Kendrick Lamar is just that – all real. Despite growing up around gang culture, Kendrick focused on hopes of a different lifestyle by avoiding gang association and choosing instead to concentrate on school and music. Now his hard work is paying off, as his newest mixtape O(verly) D(edicated) has been highly praised, and he is rumored to have written for Dr. Dre on Detox…



5. Cyhi da Prynce – This self-proclaimed prince from Atlanta has been grooming his skills since 2006, rubbing shoulders with major industry figures at Konvict Music and Def Jam, until he finally crossed paths with Kanye West who immediately signed him to G.O.O.D. Music. He boasts strong features on tracks from Kanye like “So Appalled” and “Looking for Trouble,” and his Royal Flush mixtape is out and receiving considerable attention.



4. Dom Kennedy – LA is oozing with rap talent these days, and none cooler and more confident than the smooth and easy flow from Dom Kennedy. He first received nationwide praise from his Future Street/Drug Sounds mixtape in ’09, and his 2010 release, From the Westside with Love, showcases his ability to bring that west coast sound and flavor similar to the pioneers of the style from the early 90s.



3. Yelawolf – originally from Alabama, Yelawolf has made small but consistent steps in the right direction, and now seems to be getting the recognition he deserves. Making his name and reputation through features with Slim Thug, Juelz Santana and Big Boi, the tongue-twisting spitter gained the admiration of Eminem and managed to land a deal with Shady Records just a few weeks ago.



2. Big K.R.I.T. – this Mississippian caught the attention of ears all over the country with his K.R.I.T. Wuz Here mixtape, including those of Sha Money XL which gleaned him a deal with Def Jam. That along with his close association with other young heavy-hitters like Wiz Khalifa, Curren$y and Smoke DZA has K.R.I.T. set to be the next southern sensation.



1. Jay Electronica – I hesitate to call Jay Elec a freshman, because he’s been philosophizing over movie scores and wrecking obscure beats for a few years now. His inconsistency of presence is likely the reason he’s yet to make a top 10 list. But last year the New Orleans MC made big noise with his Just Blaze-produced single “Exhibit C,” as well as having a daughter with Erykah Badu, becoming close friends with Diddy and signing with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation.