It’s no lie that 2018 has marked itself a year for new artists to emerge. From ranking high on Billboard Charts as well as other charts to nominations and even winning awards these artists have proven themselves this year, stealing the world’s heart, driving crazy anticipation breaking records set as well as even creating new slangs and adlibs. Word Yeah!
JOJI
George Miller or Joji as the name comes from the Japanese pronunciation of George, has had it this year in his music career. Quitting his Youtube career under the character Filthy Frank and his comedy career under the name Pink Guy because he no longer enjoys those contents and for some other health issues. George Miller has decided to focus on his music career under the name Joji, producing contents he is passionate about.
The New York based producer, singer and rapper signed onto 88rising label after his EP In Tongues in 2017 has released a project titled “BALLADS 1” this fall. The Japanese-Australian sings on emotions, breakups and relationship problems.
BLOCBOY JB
The Memphis, Tennessee rapper James Baker professionally known as BlocBoy JB is another that has sprung up in 2018. After releasing six mixtapes from 2016-2017, the 22 year old rapper has finally shot his shot with his hit single “Shoot” which was accompanied by a viral dance video and “Look Alive” featuring Drake which peaked at number five on the Billboards Hot Chart 100. He sometime released his debut album SIMI in May 2018 dedicating the project to his dead friend.
Recently he released a mixtape “Don’t Think That” and was nominated at the annual BET Awards and he won the award for the Best Mixtape. Known to produce songs with Tay Keith, BlocBoy’s light has shone this year. Word Yeah!
LIL BABY
Originally named Dominique Jones, Lil Baby has a past of struggle and poverty, a history of drug dealing and time in prison. Signed to Quality Control Music the trap artist is widely known for his songs “Yes Indeed”, “Freestyle” and recently “Drip Harder” peaking at number 4 in the Billboards Hot 100 Chart.
GUNNA
Signed to Young Thug’s record label YSL, Gunna has been known to become the most featured artist in the year 2018, appearing in hit singles as well as albums and mixtapes. The 25 year old from College park, Georgia, US recently collaborated with Lil Baby in the project “Drip Harder” and since the duo have been confirmed to be trap gods. Gunna’s mostly associated with Young Thug, Lil Baby, NAV and other top artists in the industry.
XXXTENTACION
The late rapper triple X also had a breakthrough amidst his departure. Even after his death the wide spread of his message on depression, mental illness and hope prevailed and reached out than expected. He won the Best New Hip Hop Artist Award at the just concluded BET Awards.The late rapper’s posthumous album “Skins” is set to be released soon. His legacy will not be forgotten.
JUICE WRLD
Heartbreak and drugs rapper Juice WRLD has had the most successful year in his music career. The “All Girls Are The Same” and “Lucid Dreams” singer is currently the youngest rapper on a roll of shiny presence. The nineteen year old debuted his album “Goodbye and Good Riddance” and is currently aiming for the number one spot in the Billboards Hot 100 Chart. On October 15 a joint collaboration between the rapper and Future Hendrix was released titled “WRLD ON DRUGS.” Juice is definitely having a lot of Juice this year to offer.
By Anthony Ambrose