Another year another wrap-up. In 2019 you got the introduction of mixes and in 2020 you also got Youtube Videos and we will continue that in 2021! This continues the legacy dating back to 2016 where there was a US and UK music split (2018 in 2017(US, and UK) 2016 (UK and US).
Ok, cool story bro but I’m new here, what’s this even about?
Throughout the year I listen to a stupid amount of music which leads to me shaping the overall views of artists and projects they deliver. In some instances, I share these views with you through my reviews/ Instagram posts. At the point of these end of year posts, I challenged myself to sum up my top artists in under 100 words each and curate a playlist and as a mix in collaboration with DJ Eaasy_E (at the bottom of the post or directly below this)
UK Music
1. Central Cee
Central Cee’s wave started to gain a flame in 2020 and fully took the fire with this latest Mixtape “Wild West” where he took the drill scene by storm. He showed me another side to Drill music.
2. Ghetts
Ghetts delivered an album very early on which had so much depth to it easily his best by miles. I had rated his past album too but for me this was the best writing ever from top to bottom.
3. Dave
Every time this man drops it’s an absolute moment and this album was no different. I am amazed by how consistent he is at such a young age does this outshine the Psychodrama album? you tell me.
4. Little Simz
Out of all of the 5 artists in this UK list, I honestly feel like Simz had the best project. Her album had so much cultural depth to it that combined with all the other elements of confidence and empowerment sat it above others.
5. Cashh
Cashh came back with a BANG with this project which I’m surprised hasn’t been picked up for any awards like those mentioned above. I haven’t heard an artist give us such authentic Reggae / Dancehall music examples with a UK undertone ever before.
Overseas Music
1. J.Cole
Cole came in and set the bar early in the year which I expected Drake and Kendrick would come for (Which they didn’t). It was a condensed offering but very much great, honestly, I feel like had another project to follow after this if anyone came from him.
2. Tems
Tems is the only artist on this list that I haven’t reviewed but there is no way you could’ve missed her buzz in 2021 right alongside Wiz Kid’s. For that reason, it was a no-brainer for me to include her as it was her moments on Essence, Crazy Tings, and overall the EP which warranted an exception to my mixtape and album artists rule.
3. Kanye
Kanye for some is probably the most questionable inclusion based on who aligns with and his antics outside of music. Although, from a music standpoint I can’t see how he can be ignored the album there were so much different textures to it.
4. Masicka
Delivering one of the strongest Dancehall /Reggae projects I’ve heard in the last 5 years Masicka proved to me he’s someone not to be played with. The project had pain, enjoyment, and just vibes overall.
5. Russ
I was very skeptical about Russ’s album coming into it but based on Chomp I thought I’d give it a whirl. It was that old-school hip-hop feeling with no bubble gum.
I think that’s enough for now! so listen in and let me know your thoughts!
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