New York drill music has been steadily rising in popularity, becoming one of the most influential subgenres in hip-hop today. Characterized by its aggressive beats, hard-hitting basslines, and dark, gritty lyrics, drill music originated in Chicago before making its way to Brooklyn and the rest of New York City. Over the last few years, drill has not only been embraced but also transformed by New York artists, who have added their own regional flavor, setting the stage for the genre to evolve in unique ways.
This article highlights some of the key New York drill artists who are pushing boundaries and defining the genre. These artists blend the gritty, street-level lyricism of drill with influences from trap, grime, and even Caribbean sounds. From drill’s early beginnings in Brooklyn to its current prominence on the national stage, New York drill is a powerful force in modern hip-hop. Let’s explore the top New York drill artists and their tracks that showcase the genre’s rise.
8 Notable New York Drill Artists to Catch Up
1. Pop Smoke – “Welcome to the Party”
Pop Smoke is often credited with bringing New York drill into the mainstream. His track “Welcome to the Party” is a perfect example of his unique ability to blend the harsh, fast-paced drill beat with catchy hooks and a deep, commanding voice. Released in 2019, this song quickly became a hit, making Pop Smoke the face of the genre. The song’s powerful, hard-hitting beats match its aggressive lyrics, which speak to Pop Smoke’s rise from the streets of Brooklyn to fame. “Welcome to the Party” perfectly encapsulates the energy of New York drill while making it accessible to a wider audience.
2. Fivio Foreign – “Big Drip”
Fivio Foreign is another prominent artist who helped elevate New York drill music, especially with his track “Big Drip.” Released in 2019, the song showcases Fivio’s trademark flow, which is both smooth and hard-hitting. The song is filled with energetic, club-ready beats, complemented by lyrics that boast about his lifestyle and success. What sets “Big Drip” apart is Fivio’s ability to balance drill’s aggressive undertones with a sense of swagger and confidence, making it a favorite in both the streets and the mainstream music scene.
3. Chef G – “No Suburban”
Chef G is a prominent figure in the New York drill scene, with his song “No Suburban” standing out as one of his best works. The track features a hard, aggressive beat typical of drill music, but Chef G’s smooth delivery and melodic flow help it stand apart. “No Suburban” captures the essence of Chef G’s style, as he speaks about his rise to success, his street life, and the challenges he’s faced along the way. The song is a perfect example of how drill can be both raw and introspective at the same time, delivering hard truths with a catchy beat.
4. 22Gz – “Suburban”
22Gz is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of New York drill, and his song “Suburban” highlights his significant influence on the genre. Released in 2018, “Suburban” helped establish 22Gz as one of the key figures in the drill movement. The track is known for its haunting, minimalist beat and the sharp, direct flow that 22Gz is known for. In the song, he speaks about street life, the constant danger, and his determination to rise above it. “Suburban” captures the raw energy and tension of New York’s drill scene, making it a quintessential track for any fan of the genre.
5. Sleepy Hallow – “Deep End Freestyle”
Sleepy Hallow is an artist who combines the dark, brooding elements of drill with a more melodic, almost atmospheric quality. “Deep End Freestyle,” released in 2020, shows his ability to craft emotionally charged lyrics over drill beats. The track features a minimalist, eerie beat that complements Sleepy Hallow’s introspective lyrics. The song’s themes center around overcoming struggles and the internal battles that come with fame, making it more relatable to listeners who are familiar with his journey. Sleepy Hallow’s unique style has earned him a dedicated fanbase, and “Deep End Freestyle” remains one of his standout tracks.
6. Shawny Binladen – “Jet”
Shawny Binladen is a rising star in the New York drill scene, known for his aggressive delivery and ability to craft captivating drill tracks. His song “Jet” is a prime example of his talent, featuring a pounding drill beat and catchy hook. The lyrics focus on Shawny Binladen’s street credibility, his rise to success, and his ambitions for the future. “Jet” is filled with swagger and determination, and Shawny’s flow delivers each line with precision, making it one of the standout tracks in the genre.
7. Lil Tjay – “None of Your Love” (Drill Remix)
While Lil Tjay is primarily known for his melodic rap style, his venture into drill music with the remix of “None of Your Love” shows his versatility as an artist. The drill remix adds a darker, more intense atmosphere to the original track, with hard-hitting drums and a faster-paced rhythm. Lil Tjay’s smooth vocal delivery and ability to adapt to the drill sound prove his versatility, blending his trademark melodic elements with the rawness of drill. The remix became a hit, showing that drill is a genre that can be molded to fit an artist’s style.
8. KJ Baller – “Shake It”
KJ Baller’s “Shake It” is an energetic drill track that captures the hype and intensity of the New York drill scene. The song features a bouncy, uptempo beat and aggressive lyrics that highlight KJ’s raw street narrative. The song’s catchy hook and repetitive rhythm make it an anthem on the drill circuit, and KJ’s intense flow ensures that it stands out. “Shake It” is not only a powerful drill song but also a glimpse into the future of the genre, with KJ Baller adding his unique twist to the sound.
See Also: Top 10 East Coast Rap Bands of All the Time
Conclusion
New York drill has become a dominant force in hip-hop, and the artists featured in this article are at the forefront of the movement. With their raw, unfiltered energy, dark beats, and powerful storytelling, they continue to shape the future of drill music. From Pop Smoke’s rise to mainstream fame to the emergence of new talent like Fivio Foreign, Chef G, and Sleepy Hallow, New York drill has proven to be a genre that reflects the grit and struggles of urban life. As the scene continues to evolve, we can expect more innovation, energy, and hard-hitting music from these and other drill artists.
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