FRESHPEOPLE LIST 2022

After multiple delays, the fourth installment of SleepWalker’s long-awaited and highly-anticipated Freshpeople List (FKA Freshman List) has finally arrived. Similar to the annual list put out by X**, our list highlights artists who are relatively new to the rap game that gained a lot of attention this past year for their next-level work. However, our list differs from X**'s increasingly out-of-touch selection by avoiding industry-sponsored choices, and keeping our roots firmly in the underground. We also include creatives from all facets of Hip-hop including rappers, producers and visual artists. These creators had a great year, and we believe that everyone will be listening to and watching them in the near future, if they aren't doing so already. Enjoy our 2022 Freshpeople list and don’t forget to support these artists!

RAPPERS

Bear1boss

454

Muddy

Four50

Lisha G

Jah$tar

Bandmanrill

PRODUCERS

Dani Kiyoko

Popstar Benny

ilykimchi

Hoodrixh

Utrppin!

NotAtTheTable Carlos

Tethra64

VISUAL ARTISTS

Speeder

Housepartii

L$D Films

Keefjojoo

KarlwithaK

Icewaterchase

UselessFilms

Bear1boss (@bear1boss) 

 Founder of Hotsauce Records and a key member of Popstar.FM, the Buffalo-born and Atlanta-raised emcee has been surrounded by music since he was a child, having familial ties to the ATL rap-mogul 2Chainz. Bear1boss started uploading tracks to his Soundcloud in 2013, and grew alongside the sound of Atlanta, making Trap and Plugg music throughout the 2010s. By 2020, Bear had established his own sound, frequently working with rockstar-trap producer 14GOLDS and longtime collaborator B-Rackz, while occasionally producing under the moniker HOTSAUCE (inspired by the streetball legend). 

Bear1boss started adding sound effects to his tracks this year too, first seen on his Big Slime Like A Dragon tape. They would grow into an integral component of his music, spamming songs with ambulance sirens, airhorns, Luigi screams, Sonic rings, and his “Cross him up Hotsauce” soundbite. Bear then locked in with one of the most impactful artists in Atlanta’s modern underground scene, Popstar Benny. The two released their first collaborative project America's Sweetheart  at the end of 2020. 1boss would go on a prolific run the next 18 months, dropping over 15 projects, a debut album, and a plethora of singles at an Rx Papi / Rx Nephewesque rate. He also established (with the help of Benny and 14) an entire superteam of producers dedicated to delivering ear-bending melodies and 808s for him to lyrically dance over. A few members of Bear’s single-name producer squadron include Cade, Ziti, Jackson, Tike, Aidan, Tylur [Ocean], firemane, and Baredex. 

1boss and his camp have churned out futuristic Hyperop, Plugg, Trap, and Club music at an alarming rate, with over 350 tracks on his personal SoundCloud, and hundreds more throughout the internet. As his output increased, so did his lyrical creativity. Just like the streetballer who inspired his Hotsauce alias, Bear’s unorthodox flow finds him nonchalantly crossing up the listener as he goes in the complete opposite direction of wherever they expect with his flow, bars, cadences, and song structures. He may rap his heart out in quick punch-ins, lazily draw out his words over multiple beats, or do his whole verse as ad libs while his main vocal track hums and groans. 

#Hotsauce’s talent has been universally recognized by Atlanta’s music scene working with the city’s OGs  Key!, ATL Smook, Pollari, and 24Hrs, while collaborating with Popstar FM affiliates Tony Shhnow, Sharc, Divine Devine, Mercury, and Muddy. His appeal has spread outside Atlanta, putting out tracks with Matt Ox, Jah$tar, Warhol.ss, and Grimm Doza. 

Bear1boss’ hands-on approach to all stages of music creation allows his vibrant personality to come through every song. He’s already regarded as a full-fledge popstar in various online communities, and currently rivals Tisakorean as the best dancer in rap’s underground. It ’s only a matter of time before the whole world acknowledges his greatness. If you like Hotsauce say “Uhh-huhh.”

Songs to Listen to by Bear1boss: BEAR1BOSS - Yao Ming (p. 14 Golds), BEAR1BOSS - Xan! (p. Ziti), BEAR1BOSS - #FreeHotsauce, BEAR1BOSS ~ Girl (p. 14 Golds + Ziti + Popstar Benny)

454 - (@squills) 

The 25-year-old Orlando, Florida native started making music in 2013, originally under the name SQVXLLS. He produced a few SoundCloud classics during this time, including Playboicarti’s first underground hit "YUNGXANHOE." Being a thoroughbred skater, SQVXLLS spent most of the 2010s gaining a following for his skating and beat-making skills. He started rapping under the name 454 in 2017, dropping music on Tommy Bohn's BONTANAMECANDY SoundCloud account.

After briefly living in NYC, where he learned how to record, mix, and master himself at a high level, 454 moved back to Florida at the beginning of 2020 as the pandemic was setting in. During this time, he put together the breakout single “LATE NIGHT,” alongside his FAST TRAX mix. Both the single and mix find the emcee experimenting with the tempo of his songs, speeding it up or slowing down the track. His already higher-pitched voice takes on an angelically robotic tone when it’s sped up, and a clear and calming tone when slowed down. He applied this format to his critically acclaimed debut project in 2021 titled  4 REAL. 454 notes his experimentation with pitch was inspired by Quasimoto, but his modern-day interpretation of the technique is both refreshing and exciting. 

The Florida artist also stands out for his positively honest lyricism. He’ll rap about serious issues of police brutality, gun violence, and dealing with the death of loved ones, while delivering braggadocious bars about skating, riding in big cars, smoking pressure, and the love he has for his girlfriend. The stream-of-conscious structure of his verses gives 454 the opportunity to talk about real life problems while still relaying the message of having fun and making the most out of life’s experiences. He’s able to fully convey this positive tone through his genuine image. His music videos, normally shot by Tommy Bohn (BONTANAMECANDY), follow the artist’s day to day activities of skating throughout Florida and NYC, hanging out with his friends at a beach, and smoking in the woods. There's even a video that features him as a GTA character skydiving over the city, and tagging a water dam. 

The Orlando emcee has remained pretty singular in his creative content only collaborating with his sibling Pig The Gemini and Plugg producers, but he's worked with Denzel Curry, and recently produced for Niontay and Zelooperz. He’s gotten write-ups from publications such as Rolling Stone, The Fader, and Office Magazine, and went on a cross-country tour with Aminé last spring. It’s clear the underground and mainstream are slowly falling in love with 454. He has all the cards in his hands, patiently waiting to deal out the project that will propel him to stardom.

Songs to listen to by 454: 454 - ANDRETTI (P. 454), DJ ORANGE JULIUS - UPHOLSTERY ft. 454,  454 - SKITTLES + GATORLAND (P. 454),  454 - THANKFUL (P.  BNYX + DILIP + OTHELLO)

Muddy - (@muddy.xo)

Hailing from the Stone Mountain neighborhood outside Atlanta, Muddy started officially releasing music at the beginning of 2020. She was primarily rapping over Trap and Plugg beats with the popular Atlanta punch-in style that she made into her own. Her soothing and light voice often delivers dark lyrics about sipping lean, driving fast cars, and getting money. The contradiction cranks. Muddy's ability to find a perfect medium between singing and rapping throughout her verses, alongside her precise blend of autotune, makes her flow pretty intoxicating. 

After releasing two EPs, and her single "CASHIN OUT," Muddy shifted her Plugg-centric sound in the fall of 2021 with the release of her breakout EP MUDDYWORLD. Teaming up with North Carolina producer OK (who produced the entire project), she uses all 9-tracks to merge elements of EDM, Hyperpop, and ATL Hip-Hop into a new type of futuristic fusion genre. OK provides production reminiscent of 2016 MaalyRaw x Uzi tracks, but they are a bit more melodic and cinematic. It sounds like the music featured in a futuristic rave scene from Love, Death + Robots.

Muddy further embraced this sound in 2022, affiliating with Popstar Benny’s Popstar.FM group. She’s been featured on a handful of Hyperpop and Plugg tracks on the group’s SoundCloud page, and recently had the Popstar producer team host her May EP EDEN. Muddy also tapped back in with OK this past June, releasing MUDDYWORLD V2, which saw them double down on their futuristic sound. The two have become a dynamic duo of sorts, creating fully fleshed out sonic experiences that sound like they were produced by a boss in an updated Scott Pilgrim movie. 

A somewhat significant factor to Muddy’s recent appeal is the mysterious nature of her identity. Since her first music video, she’s always remained masked in public appearances and on social media, sporting various shawls, covid masks, and her signature bunny-eared ski mask. The anonymity creates a certain mystique around Muddy's being, and forces listeners and audience members to focus on her music instead of what she looks like.

Muddy only has one SSGKobe feature in her mixtape discography, yet she’s appeared on tracks alongside Divine Devine, Bear1boss, and Nutso Thugn. She’s also worked with producers 14GOLDS, Trvsh, and Bsulv. Muddy is still growing as an artist, but she has one of the best overall branding campaigns in the underground right now. This, paired with her new and refreshing music, makes it almost destined for her to skyrocket to new heights the rest of 2022.

Songs to listen to by Muddy: Muddy - C*NT (p. OK), SKY / GOOD INTENTIONS (p. OK + Otwreg), G-LOCK (p. Cade+14 Golds+Adamsawake), MONEY KALL (p. CashCache + Ksubi1k) 

Four50 - (@four50__)

The Woodhull, Queens native has been trailblazing his own path in NYC’s sample-drill scene since 2015. Four50 and fellow Woodhull native Shawny Binladen formed the group Yellow Tape Boyz (YTB) in 2016, dropping their first collaborative effort executively produced by Cash Cobain titled Gold Tips and Yellow Tape. They were eventually joined by group-mates Big Yaya, Big Gltaoww (FKA Big Baby), and Melly Migo, forming one of the hottest supergroups in NYC’s underground. They’ve gotten cosigns from the likes of influential designer Virgil Abloh (RIP), various members of A$APMOB, DMV hood-legend Lil Dude, and ATL punch-in flow innovator K$upreme. 

On top of the various collaborative projects with his group members, normally released through the collective’s Soundcloud and Youtube pages, Four50 has put out 13 individual projects, with eight coming in the last year and a half. He stands out amongst the members of YTB and other rappers in the drill scene for his relentless lyrical barrage over the oddest beats he can find. 

Basing his name off the temperature to set the oven to before he cooks up, Four50 holds a palpable energy in his delivery that's been present since he started rapping. Over the years, he’s honed in that intensity, rapping like a calmer and more refined Ski Mask The Slump God, or a prime Twista if he was off the lean and punched in. Four50’s fast-talking delivery and ability to choose the perfectly random word to elongate to get himself back on beat, makes all of his verses extremely unpredictable. His eccentric delivery is complemented by a true skill with the pen, casually dropping triple entendres in a storm of syllables that can easily fly past untrained ears. Four50’s unique sense of humor and knowledge of pop culture is apparent through the onslaught of punchlines that fill his verses. He’ll make references ranging from God Of War, DragonBall Z, and Call Of Duty to Futurama, Spongebob, and Suite Life of Zack and Cody, weaving it all into his storytelling of drugs, guns, women, and money. 

Four50 has also developed a fearlessness in his beat selection, rapping over any type of sample no matter how obscure or commercial. He used the Jimmy Neutron intro, John Cena’s walkout song, and even the “Boots Are Made for Walking” country classic. Despite his good taste in somewhat comical samples, Four50 finds himself at his best when rapping over the oddly ethereal and melodic Drill production of NATTTCarlos and Chubbyelhefe, blacking over their beats in no way anyone else really can.

He tends to only work with YTB, but FOUR50 has established working relationships with rapper Grinchn4$, and producers Cash Cobain, Stronghold, and TBlossom. Four50’s overwhelming lyrical capabilities and eclectic references make his music accessible to almost anyone who listens. He is one of the most lyrically gifted Drill-rappers in Hip-hop, and it's only a matter of time before the rest of the world recognizes this fact.

Songs to listen to by Four50: FOUR50 - AND 3 (p. Cash Cobain), FOUR50 - Turbulence (p. ChubbyElHefe), FOUR50. - "916" (p. ChubbyElHefe), Four50 & Big Baby - Ps & Qps (p. ChubbyElHefe)

Lisha G (@theonlylishag)

The Camden, South Carolina native started her music career in 2017 after delivering an epic freestyle in a studio session with her friends. Lisha G’s peers pushed her to fully pursue music, and she started uploading tracks to SoundCloud later that year. She would eventually grab the attention of internet DJs in 2019, with underground curators like DJ PHAT, DJ FINNAHITALICK, DJ Gren8de, and Shoku Radio featuring her in mixes, dropping singles with her, and using her voice for tags. 

One reason why people were so drawn to Lisha was her distinct voice and southern drawl that makes her delivery naturally melodic and effortlessly rare. Also, her frequent use of autotune, and ability to sing and rap throughout her verses showcase the full range of her unique voice. The effect makes good bars great and great bars timeless. Lisha always had an ear for beats, but she entered a new stage of sound with her 2020 project HIGH MINDED. The tape found her starting working relationships with Atlanta producers PedroFlexin, Nutso Thugn (who also raps), and Yuneylae. Although Lisha continued working with these producers, she seemed to make a special connection with Yuneylae. His new-age, ambient Plugg production contain dark, slow, and unusual melodies that sound like he took a Surreal Gang beat, reversed all the stems, and added subtler 808s over it. It’s a sound that really can't be recreated, and Lisha’s raw lyricism about not being one to play with makes all of their collaborations instant classics. 

After taking a brief hiatus for most of 2021, Lisha dropped her Fortune After Difficulty project at the end of the year. She further tapped in with Yuney and Nutso, while forming a new relationship with Atlanta-based new-gen-Plugg producer Nerdcoke. His music falls on the other side of the Plugg spectrum with light piano and synthcentric melodies that are propelled by poignant 808s. Lisha finds a way to aggressively float over his beats, making a pleasant sonic clash between the two’s styles. NerdCoke has become a go-to producer for Lisha this year, producing multiple singles for her in the past months. Although she's was consistently dropped music throughout her career, Lisha stepped into a new gear in 2022 cranking out over 15 singles on streaming services, and a recent EP with RXK Nephew. 

The underground is well aware of Lisha’s talents with her landing placements with Boofpaxkmooky, Tonyshhnow, 10KDunkin, Woo Da Savage, and 106th and Park battle rap legend Blind Fury. She’s gotten even more nods from producers, working with notable names like Mexikodro, Dani Kiyoko, and Dylinci. It’s only a matter of time before the rest of the populace becomes aware of this South Carolina legend.

Songs to listen to by Lisha G: Lisha G - Lie 4 What (p. Nerdcoke + 1Sonvta), Lisha G- Dont Panic (p. YuneyLae), LISHA G - MEET THE STICK (p. Nerdcoke), SLIMEY SNAKE 🐍 (p.Frozehki)

Jah$tar (@jahstarshit)

The 21-year-old Northeast Philadelphia native has been dropping music since 2017, initially going by Jah. He started off storytelling about life as a teenager in Philly with songs like 2am showing his high-energy delivery and lyrical talent at a young age. Although Jah$tar encountered success early in his career (a lot of his most played songs on SoundCloud are from 2017-2018), he’s since undergone multiple rebrandings and sound evolutions.  

In the middle of 2018, Jah$tar switched up his flow, becoming far more animated in his delivery. He started screaming and whispering, experimenting with autotune, and breathing hard between his words, as he worked to find a balance between being lyrical and engaging. In 2019, Jah started punching in more, and became even more alternative in his beat selection, locking in with his go-to producer larry. The duo has a Young Nudy and Coupe-like chemistry where larry’s futuristically intense yet ethereal production provides a perfect canvas for Jah$tar to lyrically paint-splatter over.

At the start of 2021, he fully settled into a distinct sound with the release of projects KRAMP TWINZ (entirely produced by prolific London producer Jay Trench) and Melodies & Emotions. With the former showcasing his ability to make upbeat mosh pit music for parties and shows, while the latter displayed reflective and relatable tracks that could be listened to cruising in the whip, or taking the train to work. Jah$tar rode this momentum into 2022, flooding his SoundCloud and Youtube pages with over 20 singles and music videos, two EPs, and a new tape ITYGMFU. He started working heavily with Philly artist SIMITOBI during this recent run, making structureless ambient lo-fi music that highlights Jah’s ability to carve out different flows and cadences over what sounds like an 8-bit orchestra. 

The young artist has remained fiercely independent throughout his career. He’s been recording and engineering himself since 2017, and stayed away from major label deals. Jah$tar also edits a solid amount of his music videos, designs and screen prints merch, and organizes shows often in collaboration with creative boutique Ammo Stillo. He is embodying a new generation of artists who are retaining ownership of all their work and looking to build a true organic following off the strength of themselves.

Although Jah$tar tends to keeps his content in-house, he's collaborated with Lancey Foux,  Cashier Fresh, T$AN3000, and Bear1boss, as well as producers Ike Beatz, $orato, Evil, Jewelssea, Popstar Benny, and NoiseOfCory. Jah’s ability to handle almost all modes of creative output, while still capturing his raw energy, sets him apart from any young artists in the game right now. He's in position to really take off this year. 

Songs to listen to by Jah$tar: Jah$tar - KRAMP (P. JAY TRENCH),  Jah$tar- BACKSTAGE PASSES (P. NOISEOFCORY) #WTFWOULDSHEDO?, Jah$tar - Run The World (p. larry & Kgtrax), Jah$tar - I'M DA 1*★ #JAHSTARCLASSIC (p. larry)

Bandmanrill (@bandmanrill)

BandmanRill, originally from the South Ward of Newark, New Jersey, made immeasurable waves in the pandemic-era of music. His subgenre, which some describe as Club Drill, is inspired by the culturally foundational genre of his state, Jersey Club. Some music connoisseurs will be quick to exclaim that Bandman did not invent the concept of rapping over Club music, but nobody can deny he pioneered the Club-Drill crossover subgenre, and widened the world’s awareness to it. 

The avenue Bandman traveled during the summer of 2021 perfectly exemplifies the trajectory of both Hip-hop and Club over time, almost finding an apex where the two were naturally meant to cross over. Club producers rarely experimented with tempo until about 10 years ago, and since then, tracks have been getting progressively faster as the preference for sped-up music increased. At the same time, Hip-hop exploded in hundreds of directions, lots of which (in the past few years especially) involved sped up and sampled beats. Bandbmanrill wed the two genres in an almost poetic crossover with the release of his breakout single Heartbroken. On the track, he delivers flagrant Drill lyrics over a Jersey Club beat. This marked the birth of Club-Drill.

His extremely lit video for the single came at a time many still considered to be the height of the pandemic. The combination of his unique sound with energetic (and potentially jarring) visuals was something that felt genuinely new and different. Bandman's work the last year carved out a pathway for the crossover subgenre, which has flourished in the last few months with Club-Drill songs emerging throughout Philly, Jersey, and NYC. Jersey Club artists like AceMula continue to rise, while rappers Dsturdy and Cash Cobain have brought the sound back to their respective cities. Even Drake rapped over a Jersey Club beat on his new album. It’s clear the subgenre is overtaking Hip-hop at a rapid pace, and as it continues to increase in popularity, so will the man who started it all, Bandmanrill.

Songs to listen to by Bandmanrill: Bandmanrill - Real Hips,  Bandmanrill - Mr.Dontcuffthat, Bandmanrill - Jiggy In Jersey (ft. Sha Ek & DJ Swill B),  Bandmanrill - BANDTHOVEN (TRENDSETTER)

Dani Kiyoko (@danikiyoko)

The Kennedy Heights, Louisiana visionary started experimenting with music in 2012 when he downloaded the classic iphone app Rap Rivals, but he started seriously producing in 2016. Dani Kiyoko was uploading instrumentals reminiscent of early ICYTWAT beats, and remixes of 90s classics to his SoundCloud during this time. Although he built a solid following throughout the underground for his eclectic music as a rapper, singer, and producer, Dani hit another gear in the spring of 2021 when he invented his own music genre known as Vamp Plugg.

In an interview, Dani Kiyoko describes the subgenre as a mixture of R&B and Japanese Rock. The tonal origins of Vamp Plugg are clear in its dark and haunting chords that are accompanied by heavy 808s, claps, and snares associated with the Plugg genre. His grimly melodic beats make one feel as if they're on a fast-forwarded stroll through an intergalactic cemetery. The new sound was instantly embraced with rappers across the underground jumping on Dani’s production including BbyGoyard, sellasouls, LazyGod, $UAVI GUALLA, axxturrel (Luci4), Grimm Doza, RodeoGlo, and Lil Xelly.

Although many people may have been introduced to him through Vamp Plugg, Dani makes almost every genre of music. His discography ranges from Drum N Bass, Funk, and R&B to Indie, Hyperop, and even Jersey Club. He also created additional subgenres such as the self-titled #streetrunnaz muzik that’s reminiscent of '06-'12 Lex Luger and Travis Porter southern trap music. He’s also labeled another style (2oo9) that focuses on instrumentals that give off a mid-to-late 2000s feeling of experimental and genre-bridging music. Dani mixes the majority of his releases, frequently changing the tempo of his tracks and adding in a steady supply of sound effects.

Dani Kiyoko's large discography, spanning 15 projects since 2021 alone, and his involvement in multiple collectives across the internet including SoEvilBoyz, sillyteam, and MorbidFantasy, has made him one of the most present forces in Internet music’s underground. He's already received nods from Cartier’God, Black Kray (SickBoyRari), and Tisakorean, while maintaining working relationships with up-and-comers Bleachdiego, Xaviersobased, Dazegxd, and Preme4L (Hoodrixh). Dani should be considered a leader of the new generation of SoundCloud artists who are making music thats just different as fuck. He’s already well respected in the underground, and it’s only a matter of time before that respect spreads to the mainstream and masses.

Songs to listen to produced by Dani Kiyoko: LAZYGOD - AIR MATTRESS [P. DANI KIYOKO X JAYEE], sellasouls - {157}}WOMD{{252}}#F4YS (p. Dani Kiyoko), jugnino- no way (p. Dani Kiyoko) #STREETRUNNAZ, Dani Kiyoko - (2oo9) where you been?

Popstar Benny (@popstarbenny)

The graphic designer / DJ / producer from Cobb County, GA started making music in 2007. Inspired by Soulja Boy’s musical takeover at the time, Popstar Benny downloaded FL Studio. After experimenting with the software for a few years, Benny pursued a music career in 2014, building on relationships he made as a graphic designer. He initially made music under the name Benny Jetts, uploading instrumental flips and mixes of underground hits in Atlanta. He started DJing for the modern-day Beastie Boys rap-trio Larry League in 2016, while continuing to put out music as a producer and rapper.

In 2017, Popstar Benny founded Popstar FM, a self-described Art Company, and “umbrella for all the creative endeavors [him and his friends] are doing on the side, including art direction and rollout for projects.” He began hosting releases by his affiliates on the Popstar FM SoundCloud account, including the ALLSTAR* ~ Vol. 1 tape, which had verses from 645AR, Tony Shhnow, and Lil Wop, and production from Mikey Margiella, Sensei ATL, and Milanmakesbeats. Benny continued organizing shows, projects, and mixes for Popstar FM for the next few years, eventually becoming one of the most involved artists in Atlanta’s underground by 2020. 

He would meet Bear1boss at the end of the year, and form a friendship that would shift the trajectory of both their careers. Their first collaborative project America's Sweetheart finds Benny bridging his Trap and Plugg drums with melodies that have elements of Hyperpop, Dance, and EDM, creating new sonic vibrations that could be described as the soundtrack to the final lap of an underwater sport-submarine racing video game. Popstar Benny embraced this sound and all the subgenres his music may fall under since the release. A typical Benny beat these days features filtered video game samples and weird synthesizers accompanied by room-shaking 808s. His melodies alone sound like the final boss stage in Megaman, but Benny's hectic production is always tied together by overwhelming drums.

Including his work with Bear, Popstar Benny has been heavily involved in over 20 projects since 2021. He also pumped out hundreds of beats between his collabs with Popstar FM producers Mikey Margiela, Ziti, Cade, 14GOLDS, Tylur Ocean, and Baredex, and underground heavyweights Sensei ATL, ChaseTheMoney, and Cities Aviv. Benny has worked with virtually everyone in Atlanta’s underground from UnoTheActivist, Thouxanbanfauni, and Key!, to Destroy Lonely, Autumn!, and Muddy. His appeal spreads across the country too, producing for Florida’s Rod Wave, Philly’s Jah$tar, NYC’s MIKE, VA Beach’s Nolanberollin, Chicago’s Bravoo Hunnidz, and LA’s Na-kel Smith. Popstar Benny is a platinum producer who’s organized sold out shows, been featured in a SoundCloud documentary, and gotten write ups from most of the acclaimed Hip-hop publications. It’s only a matter of time before he and his Popstar team overtake the radio waves the same way The Neptunes did in the early 2000s. 

Songs to listen to produced by Popstar Benny: Sharc - Body Paint (p. Cities Aviv + Popstar Benny), Bear1boss ~ Woah Naenae Whip! (p. Glumboy + Globebwoy + Popstar Benny), Tony Shhnow - Chances (p. Tylur Ocean + Popstar Benny) Long.Live.6.Dogs (p. Popstar Benny + Ziti + 14 Golds)

ilykimichi (@ilykimchi)

The 21-year-old LA-based artist has been producing for rappers around the city since 2019. At the time, ilykimchi was making borderline mainstream Atlanta-style trap beats, frequently collaborating with industry producer The Martianz. She’d occasionally sing hooks on love rap songs too. Kimchi would become a member of Working On Dying in 2020, joining the new generation of the group's producers (alongside BNYX and Faxxonly), and other affiliates of the expanding collective. ilykimchi’s addition to WOD resulted in the elevation of her sound quality and significant increase in output.

Her most popular music consists of the post-tread sound WOD has been emanating lately, applying the group’s signature drums, hi-hats, and snares to different subgenres of Hip-Hop. Kimchi’s production often falls into heavy trap beats with straightforward piano and synth melodies that are engulfed by polished 808s. She provides ideal production for the new generation of young artists teetering between the mainstream and underground like Ken Car$on, yvngxchris, The Hxliday, Tino Szn, and Tia Corine.

Although Kimchi can deliver the speaker-shaking production affiliated with her superproducer group, she’s branched off into her own lane within the Hyperpop and Glitchcore communities. She frequently posts Hypepop beat snippets on her Instagram (often sandwiched between flattering photos of herself to assure the algorithm shows it to people) that feature high tempo rolling melodies with video game sounds that are brought together by light kicks and a consistent snare or clap. The positive reception of her snippets lead to her releasing two singles of her own. 

ilykimchi has carved out her own spot within Working In Dying for her notable sound and mainstream potential. Rappers are recognizing this talent as endless snippets produced by her continue to surface with artists like Thouxanbanfauni, Zillakami, and Lil Keed (RIP). All signs indicate that Kimchi is going to blow up this year. As her following continues to exponentially increase, so will the amount of crank we’ll receive from her and some of our new (and veteran) favorite rappers.

Songs to listen to produced by ilyKimchi: Rob $tone - 28 Gram (p. ilykimchi), Drakeo The Ruler - Way Before The Fame (p. Al B Smoov + F1LTHY + ​ilykimchi), midwxst - Chowder (p. ​ilykimchi + Nest + Oogie Mane), Kimchi - leave me alone

Hoodrixh (@hoodrixh6)

The young Chicago native is arguably the most prolific “Type Beat” producer on Youtube right now. Hoodrixh started uploading remakes of old SpaceGhostPurrp beats, and type beats of his own to the website in 2018. He dove headfirst into producing, posting a new beat everyday from October 2018 - February 2019. He slightly slowed down this rampant pace, but stayed consistent, sharing two-three beats every week since March 2019. He most likely uploaded to his Youtube page in the last 48 hours. 

A scroll through Hoodrixh’s page shows he’s clearly a student of the rap game, uploading type beats of the most elite creatives in the underground from Tisakorean, Black Kray (SickBoyRari), Slimesito, and Xavier Wulf to Brentrambo, Sensei ATL, DP Beats, ICYTWAT, and Black Money Boys (BMB). He’ll also post beats of mainstream artists NBA Youngboy, Megan Thee Stallion, Griselda, and pinkpantherss. On top of his extensive list of type beats, Hoodrixh has made some pretty outstanding flips of random samples ranging from the Lego Star Wars lobby soundtrack and Kahoot sound effects to the PornHub video intro and Home Depot theme song.

The teenage producer has made hundreds of beats centered around a certain artist, but he’s managed to develop his own distinct sound. The“Pipe Up Hoodrixh” tag in his songs are almost unnecessary since his production is instantly recognizable. His beats fall in a simple 2 or 4 bar pattern that uses some combination of majestic piano rolls, ethereal synths, ambient bells, orchestra violins, and video game sounds with well-placed hi-hats snares, and 808s.

Although people from the infinite void of SoundCloud have been rapping over Hoodrixh’s beats since he started uploading leases, he gained recognition throughout the underground in 2020. The producer began to build his extensive discography with 1030 Tuwop, while landing placements with Joony and Bktherula. He really took off the last 18 months, establishing working relationships with GAWD, axxturrel (Lucifer 𐕣), and Lil Xelly, while landing placements with BabySantana, Ka$hdami, and Dani Kiyoko. He also started rapping over his experimental and new-age beats under the name Premeski. The rapper-producer has dropped a few singles on his SoundCloud, frequently pitching up his voice, adding autotune to it, and effortlessly flowing over his ambient production. 

Hoodrixh is steadily gaining recognition for his ability to make beats that have the potential to go viral overnight. He’s a common denominator in a lot of SoundCloud rappers who have 75 followers and a song with 75k plays. His ability to crank out hits at an alarming rate has cemented Hoodrixh as a young GOAT in various pockets of the internet, and will propel him to prominence the rest of this year. 

Songs to listen to produced by Hoodrixh: 1030 Tuwop - PTSD (p. Hoodrixh), Lil Xelly - HOODRXCH :: HOODRIXH (p. Hoodrixh), Promotion Freestyle (p. Hoodrixh), @premeski_ - they gon hate 🤺 #2k11 (p. preme)

Utrippin! (@utrippin1)

The LA native has been experimenting with music since the 5th grade when he downloaded Fruity Loops to remake Odd Future beats. Despite Utrippin!’s early entrance into production, he didn’t start officially releasing music on SoundCloud until 2017. He was both rapping and producing during this time, forming early connections with Lil Xelly, Brentrambo, and Uglyfriend.

Utrippin!’s sound involves polyrhythmic ambient melodies and smooth 808s that could be described as Post-apocalyptic Plugg music. His bouncy synth runs that sound like digital wind-chimes are meshed with cohesive drums, hi-hats, and snares, creating a detailed wall of sound that can consume the listener before a rapper says a single word over it. The atmospheres his soundscapes create feel like they originated from a sub-oceanic laboratory in the ruins of Ancient Atlantis.  

The young producer garnered recognition through the last quarter of the 2010s landing placements throughout the underground with artists like NgeeYL and Nolanberollin. He also began working with BoofpaxkMooky, releasing two EPs together and multiple singles. Utrippin! built on his momentum in 2020, collaborating frequently with Surf Gang members (at the time) ppgcaspr, Polo Perks, and Moh Barreta. He significantly increased his output in the past year and a half, dropping five projects of his own, a joint tape with Bear1boss, and flooding his IG with beat snippets. He also tapped in with David Shawty during this time, producing over 20+ tracks for him and functioning as a core producer on his recent project psycho nitemare. Utrippin! joined David’s nitemare collective, as well as So Icy Goth (SIG), and WORKDEPT AUDIO.

It’s clear the young producer has immense talent that he’s cultivated from a pretty young age. In a recent interview, Utrippin! explains his main passion in life is making music. He enjoys the process of locking himself in the studio for days, making beats and playing video games. Utrippin!’s strong work ethic and genuine passion for his craft is the perfect combination for an all-star producer who will become a household name amongst rap fans sooner rather than later.  

Songs to listen to produced by Utrippin!: bear1boss - trapbaby back 4 the win (p.utrippin!),  boofpaxkmooky - hatred (p.utrippin!), destroylonely - paparazzi (p. utrippin + hoodwtch), davidshawty - mine/mad/walkingdead (p. utrippin! & jakehansen)

NotAtTheTable Carlos (@nattcarlos)

The NYC producer has been active since 2017, but became arguably the best sample-drill producer coming out of the city in the past year. Since his first upload on SoundCloud, NotAtTheTable Carlos always had a way with sampling. His earliest tracks include flips of the Looney Tunes, Exorcist, and The Wiz soundtracks. He started to gain recognition from other NYC rappers and producers in 2020 through his “Type Beats” on Youtube. Many of these tracks found Carlos transforming early 2000s singles from the likes of Pusha T and Paramore into modern day drill songs, or sampling Tame Impala, New Edition, and Usher in new-age Trap beats. 

His experimental production would eventually land him placements with Shawny Binladen in 2021. NATT Carlos quickly became a go-to producer for the Queens-rapper, producing nearly half the songs on his critically acclaimed project Wikipedia (deluxe) last fall. He started working with Shawny’s Yellow Tape Boyz (YTB) group-mates Four50, Big Yaya, and Big Gltaow soon after, appearing on all of their projects since.  

NATT Carlos biggest appeal is the unconventionally melodic nature of his samples. He searches for the most obscure and ethereal section of a song to tweak or recreate into a new sound. He’ll also sample different parts of the same track (or separate songs) and intertwine them into an authentic melody. This is matched with minimalist drums, hi hats, snares, and an occasional bell, giving space for his samples, and whoever is rapping over them, to fully shine.

Although Carlos is capable of sampling anything from pianos, guitars, and even John Cena’s Walkout Song, he is at his best when sampling voices. He’ll add filters to the voice, and change its pitch and length, making it low and long, or high and fast. The process manipulates voice samples into fresh renditions of old and contemporary hits. He’s sampled a large spectrum of artists ranging from Billie Eilish to Bon Jovi. The genuine bounce that comes from Carlos’ authentic sample-drill melodies makes his music very distinct. One can tell it's a NotAtTheTable Carlos beat before hearing his Hangover-inspired producer tag. 

On top of his extensive discography with YTB / WCF, NATTCarlos has worked with K$upreme, Kay Flock, RockGang Dah, Pasto Flocco, and 1600J.  His placements only seem to increase as he cements relationships with some of the best artists in New York right now. NATT Carlos’ creativity knows no limits, making it exciting to think what new sounds he has in store for the rest of 2022.

Songs to listen to produced by NotAtTheTable Carlos: Shawny Binladen - No Power (prod. NattCarlos), Shawny Binladen FT. K$upreme & Big YAYA - In The Vault prod NATTCarlos, Four50 - Keep My Ratchet (feat. Shawny Binladen & Bo Live), Shawny Binladen - Fatality (prod. NattCarlos & Four3va)

Tethra64 (@tethra.64)

Originally from Willmington, Delaware, and currently based out of Philadelphia, the producer / rapper / DJ has been making music since picking up a guitar when he was eight. Tethra64 would download FL Studio at age twelve, making mostly Baltimore Club music. He transitioned into rapping in highschool (around 2010), after deciding no one could do justice to his J-Dilla-inspired production at the time.

Tethra spent most of the 2010s polishing his production and rapping skills, before creating his own genre known as Blast in 2017. The fusion-genre finds Teth meshing the favorable elements of contemporary Hip-hop, House, and Drum N Bass into a new sonic tidal wave. A standard Blast song will have experimental House or videogame melodies and overpowering WODesque 808s that have Amen drum breaks coded into the beat throughout its entirety. The music feels like battling Bowser, Cell, and the main villain from Jet Set Radio at the same time, or being the last player in a group on Warzone with the sensitivity turned all the way up. It’s the newest and most pure form of mosh pit music out right now. 

Soon after inventing Blast, Tethra became a member of Rareboyzz (R1), a Philly-based collective of musical artists, videographers, and designers that have been an active force in the city’s underground since 2017. Teth and R1 steadily increased in notoriety around the city and internet for their intense sound, working with Lerado, Morgue!, and Dretti Franks. 

In the summer of 2021, the collective branched into the bustling rave culture that’s overtaken Philadelphia in recent years. Tethra and fellow R1 member Coolaidhippy began DJing last summer and immediately got booked to spin at dozens of raves around the city. They instantly became a favorite amongst local ravers for the intense Blast music they’d include in live sets. The two also established a good talent for remixing mainstream and underground hits, adding in elements of Drum N Bass, Jungle, and Blast into the reworked song. Teth and Cooly built on their momentum, establishing a partnership with local creative agency Exponent, while continuing to organize and play at countless events and parties throughout 2021 and the first half of this year.

Although Tethra has received the most attention for his DJing recently, he still puts out a consistent amount of music, recently releasing an EDM project titled Sono_System. Also, a significant amount of the music he plays during live sets are unreleased songs he’s patiently sitting on. The high-motor and relentless work ethic of Tethra64 and his R1 affiliates led to the creation of a genre of music that is not only rare, but has the potential to blow up overnight alongside himself and his affiliates. 

Songs produced by Tetrha64 to listen to: .//TETHRA64 = FOUNTAIN OF DREAMS + POLONTE VER 64 JUNGLEMIX (KLONOA2 CONCEPT OST), Tethra64 + Fauni = Wish The Worst DNB Jungle Remix, .//TETHRA64 = //ERASERGUN\\.(P.TETHRA64),  Tethra64 - SUNFLOWER

Speeder (@speederrrr)

The LA / Seattle-based videographer has quickly become a lead curator of visuals accompanying the new wave of talent that’s overtaken Hip-hop in the post-pandemic era. A scroll through Speeder’s Youtube playlist of videos he directed will give you a solid grasp of the expanding landscape of Internet Rap’s underground. He first picked up a camera in 2014 to document his lifestyle playing in various Punk bands throughout Florida, where he was living at the time. After briefly relocating to New York, where he shot concerts and events throughout NYC’s extensive Punk and Rap scenes, Speeder moved to Seattle in 2018. After occasionally shooting for friends and affiliates through 2019, the nomadic videographer fully committed to music-video-making at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and never looked back. He went on a two-year tear, shooting and editing over 130 music videos with artists from all crevices of the underground, as well as household mainstream names. 

Speeder’s ability to consistently deliver eye-grabbing cuts and transitions, alongside his engaging camera work that utilizes diverse footage, makes him a dual-threat that's pretty unrivaled in the game right now. A typical Speeder video features grainy VHS footage, fisheye lenses, super HD film, and wild 360 camera angles that are amplified by high-paced edits placed into every second of his pieces. It looks like he mashed seven different music videos from all genres into a two minute visual experience. 

Speeder has taken a collaborative approach to a good amount of his releases, frequently working with music video innovators JayJay Thakar (Moshpxt) and Kenny H, as well as up-and-coming directors F6F Visuals and Gee.create. He also formed a loose team of international editors that assist him with VFX and animations including Keefjojoo, Cy joshe, and Skipaframe. Speeder’s keen eye for talent goes past his camera men, functioning as a main videographer for rap collectives So Icy Goth (SIG), and Nitemare. He’s also worked on videos from a vast array of artists ranging from Yeat, Matt Ox, Zelooperz, and Rx Papi to Hook, 454, Mowalola, and Fish Narc. 

Speeder has pushed himself to the status of an essential videographer in the underground in only two years. While he’s already landed video placements with Hip-hop legends like Chief Keef and Wiz Khalifa, Speeder has only received a fraction of the well-deserved attention and accolades that will come to him in the near future.

Videos to watch directed / edited by Speeder: Zelly Ocho - Deadguy (directed by Speeder), Sig.carlito - Theme Song (Created by PG3 + Nitetive + Speeder), david shawty - who let the dogs out (MV) (directed by Speeder), caspr - ciara freestyle mp3 prod casspr :)))) (directed by Speeder)

Housepartii (@housepartii)

The DMV-based videographer entered the rap game through photography in 2018, shooting artists at various events throughout DC. As he grew his portfolio, Housepartii began assisting local videographer-GOATS 4QKPZ, 1Drince, and Kody Gracee with their shoots. He quietly uploaded music videos to Youtube at the end of 2019 before fully pursuing it in 2020. The novel videographer soon turned into a primary cameraman for Lil Dude, Big Flock, Cruddy Murda and Goonew (RIP).

Housepartii (AKA Houdini) became an instant favorite amongst DMV artists for his energetic and humorous directing style. His smooth and active camera work captures the cool lifestyle of DMV artists. Videos normally feature groups of people in apartment courtyards, at a studio, or on various street corners, smoking sheets and funnel, sipping lean, flashing money, and dancing with all types of firearms in ski masks or Cartier glasses. He’s found a way to take the lighthearted delivery of grim content (a staple in DMV trap rappers' content), and translate it to the visual realm through the use of off-the-wall pop culture references. Houdini’s videos may allude to Madden 06, Def Jam Fight for NY, Ed, Edd, and Eddy, The Mask, or Jimmy Neutron. Whether it's Cruddy Murda shooting out pictures of his own face, or a Bingo card with Lil Dude’s lingo, Housepartii always finds a way to make his artist's crazy lyricism come to life. 

On top of his humorous references, Houdini has developed a talent for lighting and coloring. He constantly changes the color gradient of his shots, either through strobe lights he brings on set, or editing programs done in post. He'll subtly transition between basement scenes with dark green and purple hues, to daytime shots with bright yellow, and red tints. The spirited videographer will also insert himself into videos, either jumping in frame and dancing with artists, or having them wear “Fuck Cancer” and “Slime The Pigs” hoodies from his clothing brand Anomiic.

Housepartii’s unique directing style has made him one of the most coveted videographers in the DMV, working with local stars like Tae Dawg, Lil Gray, Glock Jones, and 23 Rackz (RIP), while becoming the go-to videographer for No Savage, JG Riff and Cartieaarss. He’s also shot videos for some of the best rappers coming out of Michigan and Memphis like Baby Tron, YN Jay, NLE Choppa, and Quezz Ruthless. Clearly, people are recognizing Housepartii’s talent for bringing to life the outlandish punchlines that come from some of our favorite artists. He’s already cleared out his path, now we only need to watch as he blazes through it for the rest of the year.

Videos to watch directed by Housepartii: JG Riff & CartiEarss ft. No Savage - Carry Em (directed by HousePartii), Cruddy Murda - Super (directed by HousePartii), YN Jay - Fantastic Day (directed by HousePartii), ShittyBoyz, Kasher Quon, Lil Blade, Bankroll Reese, SiickP, Cam Dinero, Shaudy & Prince - Crazy Talk (directed by Housepartii)

L$D Films (@lsdfilms)

The Atlanta-based video production company, masterminded by @3locco, was established in 2017, shooting mainly for local rapper Ziplockem and a young Bear1boss. L$D Films gradually built his portfolio during this time, putting out a video every few months. He started to consistently release music videos at the end of 2019, and got to a point where he was putting out one-two videos a week with different artists around Atlanta. He’s maintained that pace for the past two years, directing / co-directing over 160 music videos, with half on his Youtube account and the rest on Bear1boss’ page, or other artists he’s filmed.

L$D has directed around 30 music videos for Bear, and neither of them show any sign of slowing down their rapid pace. The rapper-videographer duo is reminiscent of a 2018 Splurge and JMoney, or a 2019 Lil Xelly and Moshpxt. #Hotsauce has become such a favored artist partly due to his charisma and dance moves that L$D perfectly captures with his zoom-ins, freeze frames, mirror shots, half-second rewinds, and quarter-second fast forwards. He normally shoots Bear at low angles and various close ranges, creating a slight fisheye effect that draws the viewer further into his mesmerizing movements. L$D's well-timed camera maneuvers, use of drones and 360 cameras, and experimentation with color gradients results in engaging visuals for whoever he shoots. He’ll also include interesting 3D animations of UFOs, go-karts, zombies, pistols, or Micheal Jackson dancing across the screen. As well as, cutouts of the Koolaid Man, Powerpuff Girls, and Spongebob characters who interact with artists throughout the video. 

The hard-working visual artist diversified his output recently, creating two of his own web series. He started Straight Out Da Pot around this time last year, getting artists in Atlanta’s underground to freestyle in a kitchen-turned-studio. He’s put out 21 episodes so far with freestyles from the likes of Bear1boss, Sharc, and NiyaDaDon, normally rapping over rare 14Golds beats. L$D also started a woman-on-the-street series with Divine Devine called In Da Streets, which features the indie artist going to different events in Atlanta and asking strangers funny questions. They’ve filmed at a Dave Chappelle show, Playboi Carti concert, and the University of Georgia Football Championship celebration. 

On top of the new series he’s maintained for a year now, L$D has stepped up the production aspect of his operation. His website offers services for music videos, photography, website design, marketing plans for Youtube and Tik Tok growth, and his own L$D Films merchandise. @3locco is working on all cylinders to push L$D Films into the highest echelon of video production entities that he possibly can, making it exciting to see what the visual artist has in store for the rest of the year.

Videos to watch directed by L$D Films: BEAR1BOSS - Fair  (directed L$D Films), BEAR1BOSS - $$$ (directed by L$D Films), BEAR1BOSS - Spongebob Hell (directed L$D Films), BEAR1BOSS - Fish in the Pond! (directed by L$D Films)

Keefjojoo (@keefjojoo)

The 22 year-old Russian artist has become one of the underground's most sought VFX experts. Keefjojoo came into the Rap game as a producer, making old sample-heavy and ambient loops for Rahiem Supreme, hernbean5150 and Booshido. He started to do VFX in 2019, and the underground collectively recognized him as someone to seek out. Pink Siifu was one of the first to tap in with the budding videographer, having him edit his riveting "NEGRO" video and multiple visuals since.

He became a favorite to so many artists for his ability to create an extremely detailed and distorted hyper-reality that his film subjects exist within. The edits in Keefjojoo’s videos look as if they were processed on a massive supercomputer powered by nuclear energy. The VFX virtuoso uses super HD footage that's enhanced by drastic zoom-ins, screen spins, datamsosh, mirrored images, photo reel effects, and his own animations. Keefjojoo also developed an acute talent in transitions, finding the most eye-grabbing ways to rapidly switch to different scenes through zooms into windows, eyes, teeth, ATMs, paintings, and garage openings. Watching it feels like being off four tabs and two E pills while in a sensory deprivation chamber that plays music videos.

Being a truly gifted editor, Keefjojoo takes any footage submitted to him, whether its 4k or VHS, and adds effects that compliment and elevate its shots. He can make people standing in front of a nice car and smoking, or someone rapping to the camera in front of a brick wall the most engaging 2 minutes anyone will witness that day. Although most of his placements are through editing, since he lives across the ocean from the majority of his collaborators, the young videographer has directed videos for Russian artist LOV66. His collaborations with this rapper in particular find Keefjojoo truly in his element, creating visual experiences with an overwhelming amount of transitions, edits, and camera movement that display the full spectrum of his ability. 

The VFX artist is at the forefront of visionaries who are finding new ways to further innovate the rapidly advancing art form. On top of his collaborations with trailblazers in videography like Speeder, Kenny H, and Dev Williams, he’s worked on videos with mainstream stars Brent Faiyaz, $not, and Wiz Khalifa, and underground legends Harto Falion (AKA Trip Dixon), Grimm Doza, and Zelooperz. With the recent establishment of his new production company Kfj.avi, KeefJojoo is poised to continue his takeover for the rest of 2022. 

Videos edited by Keefjojoo: YN Jay x Louie Ray - Triple S (Shot by Jochi Saca edited by Keefjojoo), Pink Siifu & Fly Anakin - Tha Divide (feat. ZelooperZ, MAVI & Koncept Jack$on,  shot by Eljah Maura edited by Elijah x Keefjojoo),  LOVV66 - Трап Траn (directed by мамэтотолькодляфото edited by Keefjojoo), Elzhi, Georgia Anne Muldrow - Nefertiti (directed by Elzi + Unkleluc VFX by Keefjojoo)

KarlwithaK (@1karlwithak)

The Montgomery County, Maryland native came into the music video game as an apprentice to the underground videographer-GOAT JayJay Thakar (Moshpxt). He assisted him with more than 50 videos before branching out to direct his own in 2021. KarlwithaK instantly became the main cameraman for Ka$hdami, shooting over 10 music videos for him since their first collaboration "Reperations!." Through his work with Dami, KarlwithaK turned into a sought-after videographer for the new generation of underground rappers on the east coast. He’s worked with artists throughout the DMV, as well as young stars in VA beach, Atlanta, and New York.

Karl's videos have a healthy balance of crazy VFX and captivating shots. His edits may include stringy silver streaks that briefly fill the screen before transitioning to another scene, spinning cameras, liquid datamosh, intense zooms, occasional VHS footage, and 3D animations. He’ll also include experimental edits like clips from BabySantana’s IG Live, the shadow clone effect (where three versions of the same artist do different things in frame), and easter eggs of his logo that appear in every video.

The blossoming videographer stands out from his peers for the ability to organize and execute full visual projects. A typical KarlwithaK video involves six-seven other videographers, editors, VFX artists, PAs, or lettering and title card designers. He essentially puts together superteams of After Effects wizards to get the most out of each project he works on. This collaborative mindset has allowed Karl to direct videos comparable to full-scale label-backed productions. He’s gotten over 20 visual artists to work on his videos, but he consistently collaborates with  Kiiru Sly,  Gr**n, Nitetive, Cyjoshe, cmicarus, icyxke, and nickwelchprod.

Karlwithak is turning into a true curator of the underground, shooting for upcoming stars yvngxchris, Yung Maaly, Midwxst, Slump6s, and Cayo Banks. He established his own production company in the last year called KompanywithaK, releasing videos through the entity, and selling a collection of bunny-eared ski masks with the Kompany logo on it. The young visual artist seems to be making all the right moves in his career so far. He’s already reached milestones that many videographers dedicate years towards, yet it feels like KarlwithaK is just starting to tap into his true potential.

Videos to watch directed by KarlwithaK: ka$hdami - look n the mirror (directed by KarlwithaK edited by Nitetive), Babysantana - off the leash! (feat. yvngxchris & luisss,  directed by KarlwithaK), Yung Smiley - Saks (created by Karlwithak and Gr**n),  ka$hdami - No Nonsense (directed by KarlwithaK)

IceWaterChase (@icewaterchase)

The Harrisburg, PA visual artist originally rapped under the name Chase Gleetch (inspired by Fat Trel), and made music with his twin brother Jameson (@_meson). He started directing his own music videos after struggling to find videographers to work with, and instantly grew a passion for the video-making art form. In 2017, he switched his name to IceWaterChase and began making visualizers for his twin’s beats. After polishing his editing techniques, Chase reached out to artists in Philadelphia the following year. He worked with OX Flacko and COWBOYKILLER, shooting the video for his local classic “Built.” IceWaterChase continued working until hitting a new gear in the post-pandemic era, landing placements with an array of artists ranging from 24kGoldn and Cuffem to Big Jelly and 909 Memphis. He also started working relationships with many Philly-area-based artists including Matt Ox, Moody56k, T$AN, Sub9k, and Envy Ojay. 

IceWaterChase received this new attention for his palpable editing style and tireless work ethic. All the videos he works on are packed. Every shot has at least one edit of glitchy screens, kaleidoscope effects, or animations before he quickly switches to another. The transitions are fast and elaborate, having a rapper’s body part come into the screen before everything else, or shattering the screen into pieces and putting it back together in a different scene. He’s also developed a unique high quality VHS effect that’s spliced into almost all of his videos, which has become his calling card. 

IceWaterChase has a high motor for editing, working on over 100 videos every year since 2018. The hours of manpower put into every video he touches is evident. He’s also grown into the role of a director, frequently shooting for artists after editing a couple of their videos. Recent releases like his collaboration with A$AP Twelvy show Chase's ability to fully produce captivating and meaningful visuals. 

The Harrisburg visual artist seems to only get better with time, and his appeal has grown international as he’s worked with artists in Germany, Japan, and Norway. He’s also edited a few projects for Faze Clan that featured SoFaygo and Bronny Jr.. Icewaterchase’s signature editing style and machine-like work ethic positions him to reach new heights this year, and the ones that follow. 

Videos to watch directed or edited by IceWaterChase: T$AN - BIRDIE (shot by to$h edited by IceWaterChase), IZE & Quadie Diesel - Mornin (directed by Breezy Swank + Icewaterchase), SUB9K - BLOODRAIN ANTHEM (directed IceWaterChase), A$AP Twelvyy - Everything (directed by Breezy Swank edited by IceWaterChase) 

UselessFilms (@uselessfilms_)

The NYC videographer has been directing videos for local artist since 2017, but made it a serious career after shooting a video for Big Yaya in 2019. UselessFilms instantly became the main videographer for Yaya and the entire YTB / WCF collective. As of now, he's shot over 130 music videos for Shawny Binladen, Four50, Big Gltaow, Melly Migo, and Grinch4$. The overwhelming majority of his work can be found on the Woodhull Ave Youtube page. 

He became so sought after by the group for his ability to capture their rare essence, making their great music truly unforgettable. His nonstop, yet subtle, camera movement makes the artists he shoots look as if they've been slightly fast-forwarded. He’ll pepper in quick second-long slow-mos and reverse his footage, constantly shifting the visual tempo of his videos. On top of his dynamic pace, UselessFilms incorporates creative edits that use lattice effects, spiral animations, subtle datamosh, screen blurs, and x-ray vision. He’ll also fill the screen with bullet holes, emojis, music notes, html code, or little lights that float around like falling snow. Another quality that sets Useless apart from his peers is the wide array of pop culture references he makes. His videos may feature Paid In Full scenes, clips from the Ellen Degeneres Show, or the viral meme of Rick Ross leaving an interview. 

UselessFilms has a deep knowledge and appreciation for video games. One of his logos is a play on the Nintendo switch symbol, and another takes inspiration from the end of match sequence in Super Smash Bros. In fact, his videos are filled with video game references. He’ll use the Call Of Duty pre-match countdown timer as an intro, include gameplay from Tekken and GTA, or have Shawny Binladen throw a pokeball with a Glock edited into it. 

On top of his editing capabilities, Useless is an imaginative director. He has a keen eye for locations, finding the perfect courtyards, apartment hallways, and parking lots to shoot Shawny and his affiliates cuddling pints of lean and counting money as they’re dripped down in Louis Vuitton (RIP Virgil). In addition, he’ll create five second intros that use a favorable clip from a scene later in that video, and insert footage from previous videos into new ones. He also started creating joint lyric and music videos for Four50, writing out everything he says on screen so the viewer can fully understand the lyrical assault they’re experiencing. 

UselessFilms has one of the most diverse videography styles on this list. Every video finds him using different effects, storylines, and locations. He’s played a huge role in the image that WCF has carved out for itself, while still shooting videos for notable artists like Glokk40spaz, Xanman, 1600J, and Jay Critch. His continuous growth and desire to expand his repertoire makes it exciting to see where he’ll push himself for the rest of the year and beyond.

Videos to watch directed by UselessFilms: Big YAYA - Lied to you (directed by UselessFilms), Shawny Binladen - SEE MY LOVE / (RiDER) (directed by UselessFilms) FOUR50 - Pain In The Booth (directed by UselessFilms), Shawny Binladen x Big YAYA x GrinchN4$ - Yellow Gang Bangers (directed y UselessFilms)