I must preface this list with the fact that Atlanta is absolutely buzzing with talent across so many genres, the number of artists making noise and changing the culture is innumerable. However, I’ve decided to highlight 14 artists who I’ve either had the pleasure to work with, know personally, or simply enjoy their music! In no particular order… here are 14 artists out of ATL that everybody should be listening to!

The Letter M / @iamtheletterm

To start us off, I’d like to draw your attention to The Letter M, Having tracks out as far back as 2017, he’s been working on his craft for years. I believe he’s seriously tapped into his personal sound and style within the past year or two. The quality and consistency of his recent tracks hasn’t gone unnoticed. It’s clear he has a story to tell, and does so gracefully over often melodic, soulful, yet still trap-influenced beats. A key factor setting him apart is the energy and personality prevalent in not only his music but his media presence. His latest release, “HAVIN,” is truly addictive and his unique voice blends steady with the track. The music video elevates the experience to give us a first-hand look into his character, suave, and charisma.

Z6Saint / @z6saint

I’ve said it before and I'll say it again, pay attention to Z6Saint! Not only is his music consistent, high quality, and catchy, but his visuals and social media presence also stand to match. Bringing us a fully loaded tape in 2021 entitled Saints Revenge, he’s been focused on honing in on his unique sound and style through singles in 2022. The versatility is clear in his entire catalog, yet you can hear the classic southern trap sound radiating from his lyrics and flow. With his recent release, “A Bone To Pick,” he stood to show us wit and lyrical finesse with a quick freestyle, filled with character and his personal story.

Chase Shakur / @chaseshakur_

Chase Shakur is an absolute must-listen among this list of talents. He’s honestly been having a pivotal year in terms of stats and reputability, which is much deserved as he’s put in all the groundwork for years. The release of his album It’ll Be Fine during the summer of this year was exactly the gentle and vibey R&B collection we needed. You can hear the genuinity of the subject matter in these tracks as he recounts stories of what he’s been through. It’s clear to the listener that his music is deeply personal, yet resonates with so many fans. The artistry he displays through this perfect assembly of vocal delivery, production, and storytelling creates a listening experience like no other.

Anti Da Menace / @antidamenace

Anti Da Menace is young, talented, and bringing us the raw uncut side of Atlanta that he’s come from. Anti is no stranger to struggle, and he’s worked harder than ever to get to the position he is now, only going up from here. When you think of a classic southern trap sound, rough, and filled with the unique speech and slang evident of ATL, this is how he’s coming. The charisma found in his music videos and unique delivery of bars is what I believe allows him a standout lane. Anti is leading a fresh new generation of hip-hop artists as he recently began working with the record label and publishing company Artist Partner Group. I’m excited to see what’s next! His track “Murder Bitch” gained serious traction, clocking in at over one million streams on Spotify and over two million views on YouTube. Listen now and add it to the playlist that gets you motivated.

S.U.R.F. / @ohthatssurf

The Rage Angel himself, S.U.R.F., is an immensely talented artist who has just released his debut album Rage Angel with a total of 15 tracks. This project is the stamp of confirmation that his work ethic, lyrical talents, and artistic vision are ultimately unmatched. I’d describe his sound as alternative-hip-hop but it doesn't feel right to put a single genre on his name. As evident by his alter ego, S.U.R.F. does makes music fit for the rage and you’ll see exactly what I mean if you’re ever at a live show. My favorite track off of the album is “Matrix,” the flow is quick to match the beat, yet we get a glimpse of melodic moments between verses. Truly an artist in the most literal sense, the creativity displayed on this project is inspiring and there is something for everyone within this tape. Here is one of the focus tracks with a beautiful visual: “Coupe”.

Langston Bleu / @langstonbleu

Although Langston Bleu isn’t an Atlanta native, like most of the names on this list, Atlanta has played a definitive role in his artistry and career. Langston’s music falls heavily into the realm of R&B with music that evokes emotion, and lyrics you can really feel as you listen. His voice is gentle and melodic, which pairs beautifully with the slowed and soulful R&B beats in a majority of his work. Langston's latest release, The Motions, is exceptionally vibey. The production on “The Motions - A-Side” is upbeat, modern, and reminiscent of a house/electronic vibe staying true to his R&B tone and lyrics. Earlier in the year he released, SUPERSTAR, this is a more raw sound with a jazz influence in the beat. The vibe is almost spacey as if we’re listening at the end of a long night out. These tracks come off the back of his album BLEU which is filled with gems, I urge you to listen through the tape as well!

Lango / @lango111_

There are a lot of different artists on this list spanning many genres, and Lango is the only one I feel confident describing as a rockstar. He’s a Baton Rouge, LA artist who’s clearly influenced by the lively spirit of his own hometown while still finding large success immersing himself into the Atlanta music scene. His sound can be dissected into elements of Hip-Hop, R&B, House, and Rock. All of his music is very energetic and experimental, yet the consistency of these characteristics makes for his own unique style to emerge. Lango’s aura is an asset in itself as he’s full of character, an energetic performer, and his live shows are what will truly sell you on becoming a fan. This past year has been a definitive one for Lango, his tape SPEEDIN’ THROUGH LIFE is a collective body of work that showcases quality, consistency, and the essential honing in of his talents. Followed by a single, “FTIDD/UPGRADE/BEYONCE” stacked with three strong tracks. I recommend getting lost in his full catalog, starting here!

Ben Reilly / @savebenreilly

Ben Reilly’s recent release Freelance: Charlie”is up near the top of my favorite albums of 2022., Hhe’s taken the idea of an album being a piece of art as a whole and executed it terrifically. The tracks flow beautifully from one to the next, creating a lyrical and sonic experience in itself. I must still mention his previous work, Freelance, which is equally worth the exploration. However, the overall execution of Freelance: Charlie felt like an experience for fans and the artist alike. I’ve also been really excited to start seeing some of the visuals paired with the album after the release of the music video to “Brand New Free.” Ben Reilly is having a career benchmark year with the release of this album, plenty of shows, and a stellar performance at Rolling Loud New York.

4TUNAT / @4tunat_

4TUNAT is back and better than ever off his recent release “Gilette” after a small hiatus from steady releases through 2021. He’s clearly been working diligently at perfecting his sound, style, and quality. He has plenty of amazing music in the bank but I really want to emphasize his latest track—the energy is off the charts. After the first listen, my immediate reaction was “what’s next?”. This was such a strong way to close out 2022, and the anticipation for even more work from him is high. The production is comparable to the soundtrack of a superhero, it creates this alpha energy, and you know he’s coming hard from the first few seconds. The lyrics are strong, confident, and catchy. His flow and unique sound are addictive, keeping you on your toes ready for the next bar.

Tilde

I honestly believe that Tilde has the potential to be massively popular around the world, his sound is global and filled with personal style and culture. There’s an island and afro-beat influence in the production of a lot of his music, and plenty of tracks to dance to. His catalog is still growing, with limited releases on major platforms;, however, his debut EP of 2022 is a solid piece of work. My personal favorite is the opening single, “No One Else,” the instrumentation of the music and captivating vocals is truly artful. Tilde’s music is feel-good and could take the top spot on any summer playlist.

Cam the Artisan / @camtheartisan

Cam the Artisan is for alternative hip-hop lovers. His music bends genres in a way it’s hard to choose one. I believe “alternative” is the right word to use as there are classic elements of hip-hop and soulful sounds presented to us in an experimental way that elevates and emphasizes his sound. I would also like to note Cam’s voice is an instrument in itself as he’s found ways to manipulate it so well diving into a unique lane of expression. Jumping into his catalog we have the single “Brown Skin” among his more notable works, as well as the album Hues, filled with great tracks, “Bliss” being the most successful. In terms of recent work, I’m hoping to see a lot more soon as we’ve just been given “BELIEVE IT” drawing us back in anticipation of what's next!

Lil Joc / @liljocnh

Lil Joc brings us back into the trap scene. His tracks are largely noted by their hard beats and quick ad-libs. His catalog is wide as he’s been putting in work for a few years now, gradually establishing himself among Atlanta’s ever-growing rap underground. His most notable release is “Gottem” which gave us a raw insight to his aura and environment. His lyricism feels as though it’s primarily freestyle yet heavily influenced by his day-to-day life. Coming out of Atlanta’s southside, the material he’s speaking on is unfiltered and widely relatable for people in his local area, making it understandable why he’s currently favored as a rising star out of this underground scene. Joc has brought us a few singles over the course of this year alongside an EP, my personal favorite 2022 release being “Temper.” Check out the visual for the track “Gottem,”, and explore Lil Joc’s full archive!

KPTheWolf / @kpthewolf

KPTheWolf is originally from Athens, GA yet has fully emerged into Atlanta’s rap scene, seeing as it’s close to home. KP’s sound is heavily influenced by rock and old-school alternative sounds. He’s found a way to channel these influences into a predominant hip-hop/rap space to bring us a unique blend of sound. 2022 has been an essential year for KP’s personal and artistic growth. On his recent project Inside The Chrysalis: When a Wolf Cries, I feel as though through all his genre-blending and experimentations, he’s tapped into what’s defined as his sound. Although we hear the different elements of his inspirations, we also see consistency from track to track in how he’s melded them. Explore his full album and find your favorite!

Homixide Fatt / @homixidefattx5

With Homixide Fatt we have the epitome of trap sounds, flow, and culture displayed through his music. The production is raw, the vocals are hard, and he’s speaking on the reality of his upbringing and surroundings in Atlanta. One of the key elements of his artistry is the energy, all of his tracks bring seriously vigorous vibes and get you in a hustler mentality. Homixide Fatt is a genuinely unique artist among a large scene of underground trap, I know when it’s him from the first bar. In terms of music, he has a decent catalog accumulating on major streaming platforms, if I had to suggest where to start I’d recommend “Wax”, “EasyMoney”, and the latest release “Long Way”.

To close out this article, I want to shed light on all the different people who have played a role in these artists’ journeys. I find it important to acknowledge all the different teams and creative minds that these artists have been aided by. Shoutout to all these amazing talents and the hard work they’ve put in as well as the hard work others have put toward shaping their dreams!

Written By Milly Wensley

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