In an era where young people are finding innovative ways to make money and gain attention, the music industry, particularly rap, faces a unique challenge. Despite its historical ties to youth culture, the current landscape of teenage rappers is surprisingly sparse. The saturation of the market, coupled with a lack of artist development, has led to a noticeable decline in young talent under 20. This article explores the best teenage rappers of 2024, highlighting their unique styles and contributions to the genre.
The decline of young rappers
Historically, rap has been a genre dominated by youthful voices. Icons like LL Cool J, Nas and MC Lyte made their marks as teenagers, paving the way for future generations. However, the current crop of under-20 rappers is often criticized for lacking the same impact. The genre seems to be dominated by older artists, stunting the growth of younger talent. While there are still promising young rappers, many are struggling to find their footing in a competitive and evolving industry.
Top teenage rappers of 2024
1. Luh Tyler (Age: 18) – Luh Tyler stands out as the most polished and accomplished rapper among his peers. With a laid-back flow and infectious style, he has already made waves in the industry, signing with Atlantic Records and releasing two mixtapes.
2. DD Osama (Age: 17) – Emerging from the New York drill scene, DD Osama has gained popularity with his heartfelt lyrics and emotional depth, especially following the tragic loss of his brother.
3. Nettspend (Age: 17) – With a rapidly growing fanbase, Nettspend is both adored and criticized for his erratic vocal style and theatrical flair, making him a polarizing figure in the underground scene.
4. Baby Kia (Age: 17) – Known for his aggressive delivery and horrorcore influences, Baby Kia’s music is intense and captivating, drawing attention for its unique sound.
5. STAR BANDZ (Age: 16) – This Chicago rapper has garnered a cult following with her rapid-fire delivery and clever punchlines, showcasing her dedication to the craft of rapping.
6. 310babii (Age: 18) – After achieving viral success with his hit “soak city (do it),” 310babii is known for his extroverted style and energetic performances.
7. SugarHill DDot (Age: 16) – A versatile drill rapper, SugarHill DDot is expanding his sound beyond traditional drill, showcasing his ability to blend genres.
8. 2Sdxrt3all (Age: 18) – With an eccentric style that embodies Atlanta’s new wave, 2Sdxrt3all’s animated rapping and unique sound are making waves in the industry.
9. Sha Gz (Age: 19) – Committed to the drill genre, Sha Gz’s raw delivery and storytelling ability set him apart in a crowded field.
10. che (Age: 17) – Known for his experimental sound and slick voice, che’s music is a blend of playful and innovative elements.
11. Tana (Age: 17) – With a knack for diverse sounds, Tana has shown significant growth since his early days, though his momentum has fluctuated.
12. Ka$hdami (Age: 19) – An unsung hero of the pluggn’b wave, Ka$hdami’s smooth flows and catchy hooks have earned him a dedicated following.
13. Ian (Age: 19) – Ian has sparked conversations with his unique persona and catchy tracks, though questions about his authenticity linger.
The landscape of teenage rap is evolving, with a new generation of artists carving out their identities in a competitive industry. While the current crop of under-20 rappers may not yet match the impact of their predecessors, they are undoubtedly making strides and pushing the boundaries of the genre. As these young talents continue to develop, the future of rap looks promising, filled with potential and innovation.
As we look ahead, it will be exciting to see how these artists grow and influence the rap scene in the coming years. The journey of these teenage rappers is just beginning, and their stories are worth following.
