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12 Prominent Indie Rap Artists to Follow

by Barbara
Kendrick Lamar

Indie rap is a subgenre of hip-hop that represents an alternative to the mainstream commercialized sounds of popular rap. Over the years, many talented independent artists have emerged, blending a variety of musical styles, social commentary, and unique flows. Indie rap allows for creativity, freedom, and often addresses more personal, niche, or experimental themes compared to mainstream rap. In this article, we explore some of the best indie rap artists and their essential tracks, showcasing their contributions to the genre. These songs highlight the diversity and innovation that indie rap brings to the table, with each track offering a distinct perspective on life, music, and culture.

12 Prominent Indie Rap Artists to Follow

1. Atmosphere – “Sunshine”

Atmosphere, a prominent duo consisting of rapper Slug and producer Ant, has been a cornerstone of the indie rap scene for decades. Their song “Sunshine” from the album God Loves Ugly is a standout track that encapsulates their signature style. With introspective lyrics and a soulful, laid-back beat, “Sunshine” blends melancholy with hope. Slug’s thoughtful storytelling in the track touches on themes of love, loss, and finding light in dark times. The production, crafted by Ant, uses a smooth and jazzy instrumental backdrop that allows the raw emotion in Slug’s delivery to shine through. The song is an example of how Atmosphere’s blend of personal reflection and catchy beats has made them one of the most respected acts in indie rap.

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2. MF DOOM – “Doomsday”

MF DOOM, one of the most revered underground rappers in the history of hip-hop, has had a significant impact on indie rap. His 1999 album Operation: Doomsday introduced listeners to his signature style – complex wordplay, dense rhymes, and unique production. “Doomsday” is one of his most iconic tracks, featuring smooth, haunting beats and DOOM’s unmistakable deep voice. The song’s lyrics delve into the themes of mortality and self-awareness, with DOOM using his alter-ego to reflect on the dangers of fame and the inevitability of life’s challenges. The track’s minimalistic, yet atmospheric production elevates the rawness of DOOM’s verses, creating a memorable experience that resonates with listeners.

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3. Aesop Rock – “None Shall Pass”

Aesop Rock is known for his dense, abstract lyricism and experimental beats. “None Shall Pass” from the album of the same name is a prime example of his unique style. The track features Aesop Rock’s intricate wordplay, where he raps about the journey of self-discovery, with cryptic references to his past, his views on society, and his struggles with personal growth. The song’s beat, created by Aesop himself, is layered with atmospheric, jazzy elements that complement his dense rhymes. “None Shall Pass” became a defining moment in Aesop’s career, showing his ability to create complex music that challenges listeners while still maintaining broad appeal within the indie rap community.

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4. Run the Jewels – “Legend Has It”

Run the Jewels, the collaborative project between El-P and Killer Mike, is a powerhouse in the indie rap scene. Their track “Legend Has It,” from the album RTJ3, is a perfect example of their energetic, aggressive style. The song features hard-hitting production from El-P, blending electronic beats with gritty samples to create a visceral sound. Killer Mike’s and El-P’s delivery is equally intense, rapping about their legendary status in the rap game and their disdain for the mainstream. “Legend Has It” combines political commentary with a rebellious spirit, making it a quintessential anthem for fans of indie rap who appreciate fierce lyricism and socially conscious themes.

5. Brother Ali – “Forest Whitaker”

Brother Ali’s track “Forest Whitaker” is an emotionally charged song from his album Shadows on the Sun. The track, named after the acclaimed actor Forest Whitaker, delves into themes of self-reflection, struggle, and overcoming adversity. The song’s powerful lyrics are matched with a soulful, boom-bap style beat produced by Ant, creating a strong sense of urgency and vulnerability. Brother Ali’s delivery is impassioned, as he reflects on the challenges of being an outsider and finding strength through his experiences. “Forest Whitaker” showcases Brother Ali’s ability to blend personal storytelling with socially relevant themes, making it a standout track in the indie rap landscape.

6. Danny Brown – “Grown Up”

Danny Brown has built a reputation as one of the most unique voices in indie rap, and “Grown Up” from his album XXX is one of his most memorable tracks. The song is a reflection on Danny’s growth and maturation, blending humor and introspection. Brown’s high-pitched voice and eccentric delivery stand out, while the track’s production, which includes samples from old-school funk and rock music, adds a nostalgic touch. “Grown Up” reflects on the transition from youth to adulthood, with Danny sharing his personal experiences while maintaining his signature offbeat sense of humor. It’s a fun yet deeply introspective track that showcases Danny Brown’s creative versatility.

7. Kendrick Lamar – “HiiiPower”

While Kendrick Lamar has since risen to global fame, his track “HiiiPower” from his Overly Dedicated mixtape remains a vital piece of his indie rap roots. The track features Kendrick’s razor-sharp lyricism and socially conscious message, discussing topics such as self-empowerment, black identity, and resistance against oppression. The beat is a minimalistic, soulful composition that complements Kendrick’s powerful delivery. “HiiiPower” is a rallying cry for personal growth and activism, showcasing Kendrick Lamar’s ability to blend politics with deeply personal storytelling, which helped cement his place in the indie rap scene before he broke into mainstream success.

8. Earl Sweatshirt – “Chum”

Earl Sweatshirt, a member of the Odd Future collective, has grown into one of the most introspective and innovative voices in modern rap. “Chum,” from his album Doris, is an introspective exploration of loneliness, mental health, and self-doubt. The track’s haunting beat, produced by Earl himself, is minimalistic yet effective in creating a somber atmosphere that mirrors the heavy content of his lyrics. “Chum” is a vulnerable and raw reflection on Earl’s personal struggles and his desire to distance himself from the persona he once portrayed. The track’s introspective nature and innovative production showcase Earl Sweatshirt’s ability to craft deeply emotional and experimental rap music.

9. The Underachievers – “Chasing Faith”

The Underachievers, a Brooklyn-based duo, have made a name for themselves in the indie rap scene with their spiritually-minded lyrics and psychedelic production. “Chasing Faith” from their album The Everday Soundtrack is an introspective track about the pursuit of inner peace and personal growth. The song features a smooth, atmospheric beat, blending live instruments with electronic elements, creating a dreamy soundscape. The Underachievers’ delivery is both passionate and thought-provoking, as they explore the concept of faith and the inner journey toward self-realization. “Chasing Faith” stands out as a track that bridges the worlds of spirituality and modern hip-hop, offering a unique perspective within the indie rap scene.

10. Killer Mike – “Reagan”

Killer Mike, one half of the duo Run the Jewels, has long been known for his bold political commentary and socially conscious lyrics. “Reagan,” from his solo album R.A.P. Music, is a powerful track that critiques the legacy of Ronald Reagan and the impact his policies had on the black community. The song features a haunting, minimalist beat produced by El-P, which sets the tone for the politically charged lyrics. Killer Mike’s delivery is passionate and urgent, as he critiques both political systems and the societal structures that have perpetuated inequality. “Reagan” is a perfect example of Killer Mike’s ability to use his platform for social change.

11. Vince Staples – “Norf Norf”

Vince Staples has become one of the most celebrated voices in modern indie rap, known for his sharp commentary on social issues and his unique style. “Norf Norf” from his album Summertime ’06 is a standout track that blends Vince’s storytelling with a dark, atmospheric production. The song reflects on his upbringing in Long Beach and the challenges of living in a rough neighborhood. The beat is minimal, featuring heavy bass and eerie synths, which gives the track a haunting quality. “Norf Norf” is a bold commentary on the harsh realities of life in the streets, showcasing Vince Staples’ ability to mix personal experience with powerful social commentary.

12. Open Mike Eagle – “Hydra Phobia”

Open Mike Eagle is an artist known for his witty, clever wordplay and his ability to craft songs with deep personal meaning. “Hydra Phobia” from his album Dark Comedy is a great example of his unique approach to rap. The song features a quirky, offbeat instrumental that complements Mike’s introspective lyrics. “Hydra Phobia” discusses the idea of facing your fears and the complexities of personal growth, with Mike navigating through his thoughts on fear and identity. The track is both humorous and deeply thoughtful, showcasing Open Mike Eagle’s ability to balance self-reflection with a playful, approachable style.

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Conclusion

Indie rap continues to thrive because it allows for creativity and authenticity. Artists who operate outside the mainstream often produce some of the most thought-provoking and boundary-pushing music in the genre. The tracks highlighted in this article demonstrate the range of themes and sounds that indie rap has to offer. From personal struggles and social commentary to the celebration of individual identity, these artists continue to challenge conventions and reshape the landscape of hip-hop. Through their dedication to artistic freedom and expression, indie rap artists contribute significantly to the evolution of the genre, offering listeners an alternative to the mainstream, while still maintaining relevance and resonance in the rap world.

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