In a historic moment at the 46th annual Kennedy Center Honors, Missy Elliott paid a heartfelt tribute to Queen Latifah, who earlier this month became the first female rapper to be honored at the prestigious event in Washington, DC. The ceremony, aired by CBS on December 27, featured a tribute segment put together by MC Lyte, Monie Love, and D-Nice, highlighting Latifah’s groundbreaking contributions to the industry. Missy didn’t just paid tribute to the queen, she expressed the feelings of brown girls everywhere— including myself who were forever changed and molded by the boldness of Queen Latifah.
Taking the stage, Missy Elliott shared a personal anecdote from her high school days, recalling the impact of witnessing Queen Latifah on screen. She expressed admiration for Latifah’s unapologetic stance during a time when the prevailing narrative was that it’s a man’s world. Missy recounted hearing Latifah repeatedly chant, “Oh, ladies first,” and how it resonated with her, challenging the existing norms.
Reflecting on Latifah’s influence, Missy emphasized, “I said, ‘Who is this girl?’ And I looked at the bottom of the screen, and it said ‘Queen Latifah.’ Not Latifah, but Queen Latifah. That only said to me that she was saying, ‘You will respect me … I will be a leader, I will be a provider, I will be an inspiration to many, I will be the blueprint to success.’”
Missy Elliott’s tribute underscored the transformative impact of Queen Latifah’s pioneering role in hip-hop, breaking barriers and setting the stage for future generations of female artists. Latifah’s legacy was celebrated not just for her musical achievements but also for her role as a cultural icon and a trailblazer for women in the entertainment industry.
On Instagram, Missy Elliott expressed her gratitude and joy for witnessing Queen Latifah’s historic moment, calling her a “true BLUEPRINT for those behind you.” The Kennedy Center Honors recognized not only Latifah’s individual accomplishments but also the broader impact of women in hip-hop, marking a significant milestone in the genre’s history.
Remy Ma and Papoose’s marriage may have expired before the clock strikes 2024. New alleged audio of Eazy The Block Captain has hit YouTube, detailing to a friend that the relationship is over.
Additionally, The audio reveals Remy wanted Eazy to keep the relationship low and Papoose already pulled up on the battle rapper, punching him in the face. In the audio, Eazy also wants to run the fight back and Remy has constantly pulled up to her home.
Remy Ma and Eazy The Block Captain hit the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles game together. The sighting of the two fueled rumors about the status of the marriage of Remy and Papoose.
In September, Remy Ma’s Chrome 23 Battle Rap showcase ‘I Do What I Want’ featuring Geechi Gotti and Eazy the Block Captain had the internet buzzing. Geechi brought up alleged rumors that Remy Ma was cheating on her husband Papoose with Eazy the Block Captain. In the viral verse heard around the internet, Geechi talks to Remy claiming Papoose fought Eazy.
Now video surfaces of Remy and Eazy together on stage and Eazy responds to Geechie during the battle and critics are claiming— Eazy didn’t deny the allegations.
Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign got matching tattoos to celebrate their forthcoming album. California tatto artist Tat2Nene inked the Japanese Yen and U.S. Dollar piece on both artists, the moniker of the Vultures album leaders.
Kanye West is looking to start the year off strong. After the Vultures album didn’t get dropped on the original release date of Dec. 15, the joint effort with Ty Dolla Sign received a new date. Billboard said a spokesperson reached out with a New Year’s Eve drop date.
Ye is also back on Instagram. Kanye West reactivated his Instagram account with his Vultures album having a rolling release date. Now, over 18 million accounts are waiting on his next post.
Kanye West is being blasted by the Black Lives Matter organization for wearing a Ku Klux Klan hood while on stage at this Vultures listening party in Miami.
The KKK hood worn by Ye was all black, instead of the customary white, which BLM and the National Civic League are blasting.
“The shock and disgust that Ye generated should be channeled into supporting efforts to eliminate this repugnant ideology from society,” BLM said to TMZ. “Hate groups are growing at an alarming rate in America. Of the list of over 1,200 active hate groups in society, the KKK is the largest with hundreds of chapters nationwide — making it larger today than any other point in the group’s long history.”
NCL President Doug Linkhart added, “Any wearing of clothing that evokes the Ku Klux Klan is an affront to not only those who have been targeted by the KKK, but to American values in general.”
As we bid farewell to 2023, it’s only fitting to celebrate the lyrical maestros who owned the rap game throughout the year. From the electrifying presence of Latto to the rising force of Offset, the seasoned brilliance of Nas, the chart-topping prowess of Drake, and the poetic mastery of J. Cole – these artists left an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape. Join us as we journey through the standout moments, impactful releases, and cultural influence that solidified them as the undisputed champions of the rap scene in 2023. Let the countdown begin as we honor the Top 5 Rappers of the Year, each weaving their narrative into the rich tapestry of hip-hop.
Latto
A new generation of female artists have been dominating hip-hop for the past few years and this year was Latto’s chance to lead the pack. Following multiple “Best New Artist” nominations in 2021 and 2022, Latto hit 2023 running, securing a “Best New Artist” nomination at the Grammy Awards in February of 2023 and winning the BET Artist award in 2023. In February, she also released her hit single “Lottery” and was featured on South Korean singer Jungkook’s solo single “Seven,” which debuted at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song won Billboard’s “Top Global K-pop Song” of 2023 award and multiple MTV and MTV Europe awards and nominations. She was named iHeartRadio’s artist of the year for 2023 and her song “Big Energy” received their coveted Titanium award for 1 billion total plays on iHeartRadio stations. She was also honored on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list of musical artists of 2024. Her performance on Amazon Prime’s Thursday night Amazon Music Series (following Amazon Prime’s Thursday Night Football) broke records for the platform about viewership. As her track record shows, she is one of hip-hop’s most versatile artists and has shown that her popularity can crossover to not just other genres, but other countries as well.
One of the most well-respected names in the industry, Nas, has continued to influence hip-hop and music in general in 2023 significantly. Following multiple award nominations for his 2022 album, King’s Disease II, Nas hit the ground running in 2023. In July of this year, Nas dropped Magic 2, his sixteenth studio album. Magic 3, a collaboration with Hit-Boy, dropped in early September with his 50th birthday. Both albums were met largely with positive reception from audiences and music critics alike. His documentary, Supreme Team, which debuted at the Tribecca Film Festival, was nominated for an Outstanding Crime and Justice Documentary Emmy award in 2023. His two albums this year follow a string of successful releases in which he has shown his versatility and range, collating with artists of varying genres and generations. He also continues to show how he is not only a master lyricist but also creates timeless classic beats and music that will continue to inspire future generations of artists.
Drake was everywhere and doing everything in 2023 it seems. Following the release of his 2022 studio album, Honestly, Nevermind, Drake entered 2023 prepared for a whirlwind year including a major tour and album release. In July, Drake kicked off his It’s All a Blur North American Tour with 21 Savage. (The tour, his first major one in five years, will continue through March of 2024.) In October, he dropped his eighth studio album, For the Dogs, which featured guest appearances from album features guest appearances from Teezo Touchdown, 21 Savage, J. Cole, Yeat, SZA, PartyNextDoor, Chief Keef, Bad Bunny, Sexyy Red, Lil Yachty, and more with the Scary Hours edition of the album dropping in November. His song “Rich Flex” won the 2023 Billboard Music Award for Top Rap Song and the Billboard Music Award for Top Rap Album. He also won the BET Hip-Hop Award for Best Album of the Year in 2023 and nominations in multiple other categories. In late 2023, he reunited with Nicki Minaj on the song “Needle,” courtesy of her new album, Pink Friday 2. As Drake continues his tour, fans can expect even more collaborations and Drake to push even more creative limits in the coming years.
J. Cole was all over the place in 2023- literally and figuratively. He appeared on numerous other artists’ tracks including 21 Savage’s song “a lot,” 6LACK’s “Pretty Little Fears,” Wale’s “My Boy,” Lil Durk’s “All my Life,” J-Hope’s (of BTS) track “On the Street,” Summer Walker’s “To Summer, From Cole,” and more. “All my Life” earned him the BET Award for Best Collaboration and Impact Tract (he was also nominated for four other awards including Best Artist). In 2023, he began teasing a new album, It’s A Boy, the follow-up to his 2021 hit The Off-Season. He also is preparing for a 2024 tour which kicks off in January. Considering that his 2022 Off Season Tour was nominated for Billboard Music Best Tour Award, fans can expect to be in for an epic performance from this multifaceted and extremely talented artist who has mastered the art of blending complex melodies, beats, and lyrics to create some of the generation’s top hits.
Despite the recent relationship struggles, 2024 proved to be a key year for Offset. Taking in the pain of his fallen brother, Takeoff, Offset put the focus on the music delivering his album, SET IT OFF. Powered by “Jealousy,” Offset delivered an album full of quality, showing a range of bangers with rappers like Future and Latto, reviving the Hip-Hop and R&B collab on “Princess Cut” with Chloe, and delivering a sleeper song of the year candidate on “Worth It” with Don Toliver. And when it comes to music videos, very few can find the range of Offset, evoking the energy of Michael Jackson to Baby Boy in each video he delivers. Who said a rapper can’t hit an eight count? The brand of Offset also stretched into film, becoming the animated Offshark in Baby Shark’s Big Movie and fashion, showcasing that he is one of the figures to watch in Hip-Hop. A key moment for Offset this year was his reunion with Quavo on stage in celebration of their fallen member’s legacy. What’s best about Offset, he seems to just be getting started.
Lil Uzi Vert is looking to remove all they tattoos. In a new clip online, Uzi revealed that he doesn’t have a favorite tattoo and is looking to make a change.
“My favorite tattoo… none of them,” Uzi said. “I’m trying to get them removed. All of them. I wanna go corporate.”
Lil Uzi Vert reminds fans that his music career is over after Luv Is Rage 3. Speaking with TMZ, Uzi doubled down, stating, “I don’t really want to make music like that anymore.” Instead, Uzi revealed shifting to making women’s closing.
Speaking on the Pink Tape Tour in October, Lil Uzi revealed Luv Is Rage 3 will be his last album.
“I came to this conclusion not too long ago,” Uzi said. “I was gonna wait ’til later to say it but, you know, I’m dropping ‘Luv Is Rage 3’ and ‘Luv Is Rage 3’ will be my last album.”
Lil Uzi Vert said after that album, we would do another tour before he tries “to live a normal life.”
As the new year approaches, hip-hop and R&B fans can expect a wave of new music from some of their favorite artists. 2024 is set to bring forth exciting projects from J. Cole, Kanye West,ScHoolboy Q, and more. With a mix of highly anticipated comebacks and fresh releases, the music scene is destined to be on fire in the upcoming year.
Who’s Dropping In 2024?
Here’s a look at some artists looking to drop projects in 2024:
J.Cole – ‘The Off Season’
J.Cole, rap superstar and Dreamville leader, has been teasing his seventh studio album, The Fall Off, since before the release of his 2021 album, The Off Season. No release date or featured artist list has been confirmed.
Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign, who have also joined forces for their joint album titled Vultures. Initially scheduled for release on Dec. 15, the album has faced delays but is now set to drop on January 12. The star-studded list of featured artists includes Lil Durk, Freddie Gibbs, Offset, Quavo, and more.
Los Angeles rapper ScHoolboy Q is gearing up for a comeback in 2024. After a hiatus since his 2019 album Crash Talk, ScHoolboy Q revealed during Top Dawg Entertainment’s 10th annual Christmas toy drive that he plans to release a new album. Details about the album title and release date are yet to be confirmed.
Star singer SZA, will be treating fans to a deluxe version of her 2022 album SOS. The deluxe version, titled Lana, will contain additional tracks. The “Snooze” artist announced this in September, and the release date for the deluxe version has not been confirmed.
Atlanta rapper Futureand producer Metro Boomin have been teasing a joint project for over a year. After collaborating on Metro’s 2022 album Heroes & Villains, Future confirmed on his Instagram Stories that the “album [is] on the way.” However, no official title or release date has been announced.
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Benny The Butcher – ‘Everybody Can’t Go’
Buffalo and Griselda rapper Benny The Butcher is set to drop his album Everybody Can’t Go.
The album, part of his Tana Talk series, features collaborations with Lil Wayne, Stove God Cooks, The Alchemist, Hit-Boy, and more. The release date is expected to be Jan. 26.
Dreamville rapper JID is also preparing to release an album in 2024. Titled Forever & A Day, this album will follow his 2022 project, The Forever Story. It is also a rumor that he will drop a joint project with Metro Boomin. No album title or release date has been confirmed.
A$AP Rocky, the Harlem rap star, has faced several delays with his upcoming album titled Don’t Be Dumb.
The album, which has been teased since 2022, features production from notable names such as Metro Boomin, Madlib, TylerThe Creator, Mike Dean, and others . There is no release date yet.
Kid Cudi, the Cleveland rap star, is set to release his ninth studio album titled INSANO on Jan. 12. The album is expected to feature collaborations with artists like Travis Scott, Lil Yachty, Wiz Khalifa, and A$AP Rocky.
In less than one month we will officially have ‘INSANO’ by @KiDCuDi
In a bittersweet moment, there will also be another posthumous album from the late rapper Juice Wrld.
Titled The Party Never Ends, the album has faced delays after his unreleased music was leaked. Other posthumous releases include 2020’s Legends Never Die 2021 Fighting Demons.
Since many rappers are dropping in 2024, check out SOHH’s playlist of the 23 best songs of 2023. Some of the artists on the playlist include Sexyy Red, Young Nudy, Ice Spice, Drake and more.
When you hear Zaytoven’s “producer tag,” you automatically know that song’s going to be a hit.
Currently based in Atlanta, Zaytoven will forever go down in history as one of the best producers in the rap game. Best known for fostering a new sound alongside Gucci Mane, Zaytoven is deemed the Godfather of Trap music, pioneering a new movement and giving new life to the definition of trap music.
And while Zaytoven has endless plaques, endless accolades, and endless hits to his name, he still remains as humble and inspired as when he first entered the game. Fast forward to today, Zaytoven unveils his newest single titled “Winning,” alongside his blood son Zayskii.
The Source spoke with Zaytoven virtually to discuss the moment he fell in love with Hip-Hop, working with Gucci Mane early on, his favorite song with Guwop, and more!
What was the moment you fell in love with Hip-Hop?
This is when I was in Columbus, Georgia. I was visiting, and my older cousin had a Walkman. He had the single “Dre Day” with Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre. I grew up in a church. I’m a church kid and I’m in church all the time. I’m not allowed to listen to secular music. We don’t listen to that. Especially no music with profanity the way that had in it. But he let me hear on his Walkman, and I swear I listened to that all day. Over and over and over again.
I fell in love with the music. You gotta think: after that, I got a hold of The Chronic. I listened to The Chronic album, then Snoop Dogg came with Doggystyle. I turned into a rap fiend, I wanted to hear that all day long. The music, the way the stuff was put together, I fell in love with it.
You made the “So Icy” beat in 5 minutes?!
Yes. If anybody’s been in the studio with me or if you watch online, you can tell that’s how I work. I make beats in 5, 10 minutes. That’s not bragging, that’s not saying my way is better than anybody else’s. That’s how music comes to me. That’s how I create.
How long are you usually in the studio?
Most of the time, I’m having long sessions. But that’s because I’m trying to get 5, 6 songs done in one session. I like to go home and listen in the car. Okay, here go 5 songs we did today. Rather than one song, maybe two songs. That comes from how me and Gucci used to work. Gucci used to come over to my house at 7am, then won’t leave till 2am or 3am the next morning. But we done recorded so many songs that day, we felt like we put in the good work.
I know you have 3 songs on Gucci Mane’s last album. How does it feel to be working with him still now to this day? I love the loyalty.
That’s my ace right there. When it comes to music, we made history. We created a sound that when people hear the music, even when you hear my music without him on it, that’s still the sound that me and Gucci Mane created. I always tell Gucci all the time how much I appreciate him. No matter how far, how big he gets or how far he goes, he always includes me in every everything he does. I always have to tell him: bro, I appreciate you. That’s real love right there.
Do you have a favorite song you did with Gucci?
“First Day Out,” when he first got out of jail. The first time we wasn’t working with each other for about 6 months, the first song we did was “First Day Out” when he got out. I remember getting chills listening to him record to the song, so that’s my favorite.
Gucci had one of the biggest glow ups in Hip-Hop…
He got the biggest! He got the biggest story in Hip-Hop to me.
How was it seeing him bounce back? I’m sure that was inspiring.
I’ve been knowing Gucci from the beginning. So every time he went to jail, every time something happened, I know him and I know how he’s coming back. I know he’ll be bigger and better every time he comes back. Because I talked to him the whole time he gone, and he be so excited. Every time he goes away and get locked up, he calls me and rap songs to me. When I make beats to the song, he rapping to me over the phone. I know how inspired he is to get out and go hard.
One of the reasons that I took all my time — anytime Gucci asked me to do something, whether it’s coming to my mama’s house at 3 in the morning and I got to sneak him in to record. Always did whatever he wanted to do because I knew he had the drive to make it. He was gon’ make it in the music game. I said if I stick with him and follow what he’s doing, then I’ma make it right with them.
Dipset! The Diplomats will forever go down in history as one of the greatest rap groups of all time. Coming into fruition in 1997 by childhood friends Cam’ron and Jim Jones, The Diplomats sparked a whole movement in Harlem, most notably known for their viral smash “Dipset Anthem.”
Most recently, Cam’Ron hopped on the All The Smoke podcast with co-hosts Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson. During the conversion, he reminisces on how Master P played a big role in the formation of Dipset, even though he wasn’t physically in the city of Harlem.
Cam’Ron first explained how New Orleans soldiers would move and how it inspired his group.
“I used to observe these arguments, like n*ggas is really going crazy about n*ggas who’s in the same clique,” Cam stated. “So I kinda took all that format to try to make the Diplomat brand. N*ggas used to have No Limit fights on my block. N*ggas was in New York wearing camouflage. Master P had n*ggas going crazy. Mr. Serv-on, Mystikal, it got down with them n*ggas.”
He continued, “Shaq was in the video. They talking about P got $400 million. N*ggas is going around buying fake tank chains. All type of shit. Master P had that shit in a frenzy.”
Cam’Ron was referring to Master P’s No Limit Records imprint, which proved to be a movement in itself. Cam’Ron even commented: “If you looked, it wasn’t no internet. But it seemed like he had 17 artists come out every week! Like yo, who is these n*ggas man?”
In 2023, the hip-hop ladies took the spotlight by storm. From music icons like Beyoncé to rising stars such as TiaCorine and Latto, these women have redefined the music landscape with their chart-topping hits, groundbreaking performances, and unapologetic artistry. Get inspired and empowered as SOHH delves into the top 23 Females of 2023 –Single Ladies Edition.
Top 23 Females of 2023: SOHH’s Single Ladies Edition
1. The Reign of Queen Bey
Queen Bey held the world captive in 2023 with her record-breaking Renaissance Tour and accompanying film. The iconic artist declared the “Renaissance” year this year, leaving a lasting mark with her mesmerizing performances and thought-provoking visual storytelling.
2. TiaCorinne: Unapologetic Bursting Into The Rap Scene
The rap scene witnessed the rise of TiaCorinne in 2023, as she caught the attention of many with her viral hit, “Freaky T.” This anime-themed rapper showcased her versatility and range in her music, captivating listeners with her distinctive style and raw lyricism.
3. Latto’s Stellar Year
Latto experienced a breakout year in 2023, following the release of her hit song “Put It On Da Floor.”
Her infectious track, featuring a remix with Cardi B, skyrocketed to the top of the charts, solidifying Latto’s status as a rising star in the rap industry. With her undeniable talent and captivating presence, Latto has cemented her place as one of the prominent voices in music today.
4. Doja Cat: Breaking Boundaries
Doja Cat made waves in 2023 with her highly anticipated album, Scarlet, garnering acclaim for its unique sound and infectious tracks.
The “Juicy” rapper’s song “Paint The Town Red,” broke the rap drought on the charts, proving her versatility and knack for delivering chart-topping hits. Additionally, Doja announced her first-ever headlining tour, The Scarlet Tour, further showcasing her artistic vision and captivating stage presence.
5. Lady London: An Undeniable Flow
After gaining viral fame with her “Pop Ya Shit Freestyle,” Lady London continued to captivate listeners with her undeniable flow and creativity in 2023.
6. Victoria Monét: From Songwriter To Solo Star
Victoria Monét emerged as a force to be reckoned with in 2023, transitioning from a talented songwriter to a solo artist with her album Jaguar 2.
The singer showcased her ability to captivate listeners with her soulful vocals and introspective lyrics, earning Grammy recognition for the first time. With a sold-out tour and undeniable artistry, the “On My Mama” singer proved that she has officially arrived as a prominent solo artist.
7. MaiyaTheDon: Making A Mark
Best known for her hit song “TELFY,” MaiyaTheDon continued her upward trajectory in the rap scene in 2023. The rapper’s debut mixtape, “Hot Commodity,” showcased her versatility and unique style, garnering attention and even a billboard promotion in Times Square.
8. Cardi B: Endless Versatility
Cardi B continued her unstoppable momentum in 2023, venturing into various opportunities beyond music.
Securing an endorsement with Beats By Dre, the “Up” rapper proved her business savvy while continuing to create impactful music. Her highly-anticipated collaboration with Megan Thee Stallion became an instant hit, further solidifying Cardi’s position as a powerhouse in the industry.
9. Sexyy Red’s Chart-Topping Reign
Hailing from St. Louis, Sexyy Reddominated the hip-hop community in 2023 with her chart-topping hits like “Poundtown,” “Skeeyee,” and “Shake Yo Dreads.” The rapper’s undeniably catchy tracks and unapologetic style propelled her to new heights, leading to her first-ever headlining tour, the Hood Hottest Princess Tour.
10. Ice Spice: Phenomenon in the Making
Ice Spice emerged as a phenomenon in 2023, capturing the hearts of fans with hit after hit. From “Munch” to “Princess Diana,” the 22-year-old rapper showcased her star power and versatility, even landing a brand deal with Dunkin’ Donuts. Her inclusion on the soundtrack of the blockbuster film Barbie further solidified her role as an up-and-coming rap sensation.
11. Halle Bailey: An Emerging Star
Halle Bailey‘s breakout solo career in 2023 was nothing short of phenomenal.
From her enchanting performance in The Little Mermaid, which dominated the box office, to her role in The Color Purple, Halle showcased her immense talent and emerging star power.
The singer-actress received Grammy recognition as a solo artist and became a rising star to watch closely.
The iconic rapper stunned fans with her captivating lyrics and infectious beats, making history with the album’s release in December. The “FTCU” rapper’s undeniable talent and influence continued to cement her status as one of the industry’s most influential figures.
Taking the stage at the State Farm Stadium for the Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show on Feb.12, 2023, Rihanna rocked the stage in a spectacular 13-minute set.
The Bajan megastar, not only made history as a headline performer at the Super Bowl Halftime Show, but she also confirmed her second pregnancy during her performance. Reports later surfaced that the FENTY mogul had given birth to her second baby boy, Riot Rose Mayers, with her partner and rapper,A$AP Rocky.
Alongside her jaw-dropping stage presence, Rihanna’s Super Bowl performance had a significant impact on her music. Following her show, her streaming numbers soared by over 600%, solidifying her status as the music mogul many grew to love.
14. Monaleo’s Musical Prowess
The “Pink Princess” Monaleo shone brightly in 2023, successfully balancing motherhood and her rap career. With consistent releases and an impressive headlining tour, Monaleo’s empowering presence and musical prowess captured the attention of fans worldwide.
15. Chrisean Rock’s Transformation & New Beginnings
Chrisean Rock underwent a transformative journey in 2023, emerging as a musician and a mother. Leaving behind past drama, Rock embraced her new path, showcasing her musical talents and embracing the joy of motherhood.
16. Amari Noelle: From Television To Music
Amari Noelle transitioned from television to music in 2023, making a name for herself as an artist. Recognized by Spotify as “Fresh Finds R&B 2023,” Noelle collaborated with notable artists like Kodie Shane, Kaash Paige, and Jacob Latimore, further solidifying her industry position.
17. Megan Thee Stallion’s Year Of The Cobra
Megan Thee Stallion continued to make waves in 2023, overcoming obstacles and solidifying her position in the music industry.
From her independent artist journey to an iconic performance alongside Beyoncé, the Houston Hottie’s resilience and talent propelled her to new heights, making her one of the year’s most influential and inspiring artists.
18. Kaliii’s Global Publishing Deal
Kaliiisecured a global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music Group in 2023, paving the way for a promising future in the rap industry. The emerging artist’s undeniable talent and positive outlook showcased her potential for continued success.
19. Coi Leray Turns Heads
Coi Leray showcased her versatility and artistry in 2023, releasing the 6-track EP “Blue Moon” to critical acclaim. Catching the attention of rap icons like Busta Rhymes, Leray collaborated on major projects throughout the year, further solidifying her place in the industry.
20. RAYE’s Successful Solo Journey
British artist RAYE embarked on a solo journey in 2023, garnering recognition for her viral hit “Escapism.” Jimmy Fallon’s Tonight Show showcased the pinnacle of her career, further solidifying her status as a rising star.
20. Lola Brooke On The Rise
Lola Brooke made a remarkable impact in 2023 with her captivating rap career. Celebrating Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary alongside legendary artists and earning major brand endorsements, the “Don’t Play Wit It” rapper established herself as a force to be reckoned with, representing her New York roots.
21. Ciara’s Comeback
Ciara made a resounding comeback in 2023, delighting fans with her return to music. Collaborating with Chris Brown on their song “How We Roll,” Cici showcased her artistry and welcomed a new addition to her family, further solidifying her place in the industry.
22. Coco Jones’ Chart-Topping Success
Coco Jones embraced her rise to stardom in 2023, delivering consistent hits and earning recognition as “Best New Artist” at the BET Awards. Her platinum-certified single “ICU” propelled her career forward, cementing her status as a Grammy-nominated artist.
23. Flo Milli’s Breakthrough Moments
Flo Milli maintained her consistency and success in 2023, captivating listeners with her unique style and unwavering confidence.
Her latest single, “Never Lose Me,” gained significant streams and is expected to debut on the Billboard Hot 100, marking her first entry on the prestigious chart. Flo Milli embarked on a headlining tour and secured major brand deals, including a recent collaboration with 7-Eleven.
: 
(@theeemprasss) 
(@DelGroyp) 
” Lizzo wrote.
There will also be a LIR3 tour 
(@uziawge) 
EVERYBODY CAN‘T GO
BENNY THE BUTCHER
JANUARY 26TH, 2024 
(@g999V2) 
| 7 songs from 