Some of these artists are far from ‘new,’ hence the ‘breakthrough’ part. There is still something relatively new about each one of these artists, nevertheless.
10. Charles Hamilton
Haven’t heard of him yet? That’s too bad, because I can’t stop hearing about this guy. Eh, I think he’s dope, or was dope, or will be dope. One of those. He just needs some direction and he’ll be good to go. His production is interesting, but for him it could be worth while to venture out and reach out to some up and coming producers to suit his up and coming style.
9. Blu
His success from 2007′s Below the Heavens, with producer Exile, still hasn’t slowed down and in 2008 everyone wanted him for something. His projects were highly anticipated in the underground circuit and they delivered the goods (more or less). This may be his last romp on this list and to prevent him from becoming over rated, let’s see what he can do on a consistent basis.
8. Shad
Canada represent! This dude is all skill. He’s been around for a minute, but with the drop of The Old Prince and the hit joint, “Brother,” he’s finally getting the attention that he’s deserved. I can’t help but support great hip hop like this; no gimmicks.
7. The Knux
After being wow’ed by their great live show, being wow’ed by their great album, and being wow’ed by their level of awesomeness, I decided that The Knux need to be here. Their critical acclaim will eventually churn out more listeners.
6. Remot
After rolling off the success of 2007′s American Gangster Remoted (Hip Hop DX Contest Winner), this young man has stood out in 2008. Becoming a protégé of Mick Boogie and expanding his resume, he only will continue to turn some heads with his Dilla-esque style. Should be a strong 2009.
5. Illmind
Illmind is still relatively fresh to the game, but seriously, 2008 has been his year. If not for Black Milk’s retardedly strong 2008, Illmind might’ve picked up “Producer of the Year” honors. He was getting hollered at from all angles; from cats ranging from Scarface to Heltah Skeltah. So, expect more dope stuff from him in 09.
4. Wale
Dropping one of the best mixtapes of 2008 wasn’t enough for Wale, he had to be anywhere and everywhere that hip hop news was at. There was rarely a new track that he didn’t turn out or spot up on. He’s still relatively new and will certainly have an even more expanded fan-base after his wildly popular drop on “Rising Up” with The Roots.
3. Drake
Canada, again! He’s been creating a hell of a buzz in 2008. Lil’ Wayne took notice and there’s plenty of word that Drake could be inked to something major in the near future (if he hasn’t been already). He’s got skill when he wants to drop it and not dumb down his stuff, he’s got loads of quotables and loads of talent. It’ll be interesting to see what he can do.
2. Asher Roth
If you guys aren’t excited about this cat, I don’t know what you can be excited about. He’s got so much jump and charisma and while he does remind me of Eminem in plenty of ways, he by no means comes across as a “wannabe.” He’s his own artist, and his subject matter certainly differs from Mr. Mathers, so why can’t he do his own thing? He’s dope. He’s got a great flow, a great style, and most importantly, a great attitude.
1. Jay Electronica
He’s being hailed as the new Nas. I wasn’t impressed by his live show, but I’m confident that he will drop one hell of an extraordinary album. He’s showed the Nasir in him plenty of times in 2008 and has gotten co-signs from all the respected heads possible. He’s got a bright future if he keeps his head on straight and sticks to his bread and butter — strong lyricism. Some great production will go a long way for Jay E, but he seems to be one of the most lyrically gifted cats hip hop has witnessed in a while.
Honorable Mentions
Related posts:
- Top 10 Trends/Phases in 2008
- Top 10 Mixtape/Remix Albums of 2008
- Top 10 Most Anticipated Albums for 2008
- 2008: The Year That Was
- Rock The Bells 2008
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