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Music is a form of art that many use to source identity and emotions; it is a muse for the story-teller and an outlet for many. We live in a place and time where the R&B and hip-hop genre have been re-cultivated and the sounds are consistently re-invented. I would like to highlight four debut artists who have recently emerged into the limelight and whose careers, in my opinion, will continue to thrive as they leave a legacy of culture and grit.

1. 704Chop

The 25-year old Charlotte, North Carolina native, 704Chop, is a revolutionary hip-hop artist that is making his own lane in the entertainment industry. Songs such as “All I Know” and “Loyalty Means Everything,” accumulating over 5 million views on YouTube, convey the mantras set for his life. In these songs, Chop tells listeners about his story of trials and resilience. Recently signed to Billion Dollar Baby Entertainment, Chop has already left a memorable imprint as one of Charlotte’s most ground-breaking new artists. No doubt he is a valuable asset for rapper DaBaby’s newly founded record label BDBENT.

704Chop is definitely one to watch for as he continues to work on the release of his first album with Billion Dollar Baby Entertainment.

2. Zae France

Zae France, a 26- year-old emerging R&B artist has already begun to solidify his spot among the greats. The release of his debut EP, Rhythm N Backwoods confirms the potential netted for this North Carolina native. It is safe to say France has re-branded the sound of R&B; his cadences take on a less contemporary sound for the genre as he embellishes in his own musicality.

His single “Done Up,” fteaturing Mizzy Lott, is a complete vibe of classical rifts riddled with the flare of R&B. France’s feel good music entices listeners with his unique sound and sensual lyrics.

3. Tobechukwu Nwigwe

Two words: Tobe Nwigwe! This Nigerian-American rapper is putting on for his city and his culture. Bred from the SWATs of Houston, Alief phenomenon, Nwigwe, produces music that acts as a fusion of Houston and hip-hop culture all while saluting his Nigerian make.

Gaining the nods of legendary artists such as Erykah Badu and Chance the Rapper, Nwigwe shows he is on his way to becoming a legend himself. Tobe Nwigwe is nothing less than a visionary and a show-stopping revolutionary artist. With musical influences such as Andre 3000 and Lauryn Hill, Nwigwe’s eclectic lyrics and captivating visuals set him apart from the contemporary crowd.

Tobe’s reign began back in 2016 when #GetTwistedSundays emerged. If you’ve been following him since then, you already know the standard he set was pillared with the makings of an icon. Since then Tobe has been consistent in the release of powerful and influential pieces such as "Cage Birds,” “Against the Grain” and “Hella Black” from his EP Fouriginals.

Authenticity is an understood pseudonym for the 32-year old rapper; honestly, not enough can be said about this Houston legend. His skills and creativity are unparalleled. While this is only the beginning for Tobe, it is clear, he has already made a permanent imprint on the rap industry.

4. Chika

Last, but certainly not least, let’s talk about Chika! Easily one of the most powerful and purposeful female MCs to grace this earth.

The Alabama native drifted into mainstream attention when her freestyle video, “A Letter to Kanye West,” went viral back in 2018. For the past couple of years, Chika has showcased her unmatched ability as a lyricist and as an artist herself. Singles such as “High Rises” and “No Squares” illuminate the young rapper’s natural aptitude as a creator and musician.

One thing I feel sets Chika apart from the typical artist is her transformative abilities. While formed in the marginalized spaces of society, being a Queer Black woman, Chika continues to scope boundaries set for her community.

Creating a place for her name in not just the music industry but in fashion as well, Chika is showing her lane is wherever she wants it to be. The 22-year old rapper is nothing short of a prodigy. Don’t say I didn’t put you on.

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