Alright, Aussie hip-hop heads, gather ’round! We’re here to give props to the top dogs from down under, who’ve been spittin’ bars and makin’ waves in the rap scene!
We’re talking about the pioneers (just like the best British rappers), the game-changers, the rhyme-slingers who’ve put Australia on the global hip-hop map.
From Adelaide to Sydney, these artists have been reppin’ the Aussie vibe, creating their unique spin on hip-hop that resonates with fans both at home and abroad.
So, let’s dive deep into the Outback of Aussie hip-hop and give a nod to the artists who’ve been shaping the scene!
10. Pez
Born Perry Chapman, Pez is a Melbourne native who kicked off his music career in 2008 with his debut album, “A Mind of My Own.”
Known for his thoughtful lyrics and uplifting tracks, Pez made waves with the hit single “The Festival Song,” featuring 360, which became an anthem of youth and celebration.
Pez’s music is marked by a hopeful optimism and a powerful social conscience, as he often delves into issues like mental health and society’s pressures.
9. Seth Sentry
This hip-hop artist from Melbourne is known for his storytelling and relatable lyrics.
Seth Sentry’s breakthrough single, “The Waitress Song,” launched him to national recognition, with its humorous and down-to-earth perspective on everyday life.
His debut album, “This Was Tomorrow,” features a mix of introspective tracks and light-hearted narratives, showcasing his dynamic skill as a lyricist and performer.
8. Bliss n Eso
Consisting of American-born MC Bliss (Jonathan Notley), Aussie MC Eso (Max MacKinnon), and DJ Izm (Tarik Ejjamai), Bliss n Eso began their journey in the early 2000s.
Their vibrant blend of introspective lyrics and energetic beats have made them a mainstay in the Aussie hip-hop scene.
With seven successful albums under their belt, including “Flying Colours” and “Off the Grid,” they’ve managed to resonate with fans worldwide, earning numerous accolades along the way.
7. Tkay Maidza
Originally from Zimbabwe, Tkay Maidza moved to Australia as a child and quickly made her mark on the music scene.
Her eclectic style, fusing hip-hop with electro-pop, makes her one of the most exciting acts to come out of Australia in recent years.
The female rapper’s debut album, “Tkay,” and her subsequent EPs, like “Last Year Was Weird,” have earned her international recognition and allowed her to work with notable artists, such as Run The Jewels’ Killer Mike.
6. Kerser
Emerging from Sydney’s western suburbs, Kerser’s unapologetic and raw storytelling has garnered a massive following.
Known for his freestyling skills and brash delivery, Kerser offers an unfiltered look into his life and experiences growing up in the less glamorous parts of Australia.
With a DIY ethos and an impressive catalogue of albums, Kerser has cemented his place as a figurehead of Australia’s underground hip-hop scene.
His gritty authenticity makes his music resonate with fans from similar backgrounds, establishing him as a voice for the disenfranchised.
5. Illy
Al Murray, better known by his stage name Illy, hails from Melbourne and is a prominent figure in Aussie hip-hop.
His distinct flow and ability to craft catchy hooks helped his 2013 album “Cinematic” reach new heights, landing at number four on the ARIA Albums Chart.
With five ARIA award nominations and several gold and platinum-certified singles, Illy has solidified his position in Australian music.
His relatable lyrics and versatile style have allowed him to connect with fans beyond the hip-hop community.
4. 360
Melbourne-based 360, born Matthew James Colwell, has made a significant impact on the Australian hip-hop scene.
Known for his electrifying live shows and diverse music style, 360 blends rap with elements of rock, dubstep, and pop.
His 2011 album, “Falling & Flying,” was a massive success, earning four platinum certifications.
360’s battle-rap background adds an edge to his tracks, but he’s also demonstrated a knack for producing heartfelt, introspective songs, proving his versatility as an artist.
3. Baker Boy
Daniel Baker, aka Baker Boy, is an Indigenous Australian rapper who’s paving his own path in the Aussie hip-hop scene.
Singing in English and his native Yolngu Matha language, Baker Boy’s music promotes positivity and cultural understanding.
His high-energy performances and feel-good tracks have earned him several accolades, including the Young Australian of the Year in 2019.
Baker Boy’s infectious charisma and commitment to preserving his culture make him a truly unique figure in Australian music.
2. The Kid LAROI
This young artist, originally from Sydney, has quickly risen to international stardom.
Charlton Howard, aka The Kid LAROI, first gained recognition through his association with the late rapper Juice WRLD.
His debut mixtape, “F*ck Love,” showcased his melodic rap style and lyrical prowess, landing at number one on the ARIA Albums Chart and breaking into the top 10 on the Billboard 200.
Despite his young age, The Kid LAROI’s music exudes maturity, as he tackles themes of love, loss, and personal growth.
1. Hilltop Hoods
Coming in hot at number one, the Hilltop Hoods have been pivotal in bringing Australian hip-hop to the mainstream.
The trio, consisting of MC Suffa, MC Pressure, and DJ Debris, began their journey in the early ’90s in Adelaide.
Known for their innovative production and deep-rooted lyricism, Hilltop Hoods’ music often touches on social issues.
With multiple platinum-selling albums and a slew of awards, the group’s impact on the Aussie hip-hop scene is undeniable.
Their 2003 album, “The Calling,” is considered a classic and cemented their status as trailblazers in the industry.
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And there you have it, folks! Our journey through the land of Aussie hip-hop might be over, but these artists’ influence on the scene is anything but.
From pioneers like Hilltop Hoods to young guns like The Kid LAROI, they’ve all played their part in shaping the sound of Australian hip-hop.
They’ve pushed boundaries, broken barriers, and made music that’s both authentic and impactful.
Whether they’re spinning yarns about the Aussie experience, highlighting social issues, or just making us bob our heads to the beat, these artists are doing it with a style and swagger that’s unmistakably Aussie.
So, keep your ears perked for that down under sound, ’cause Aussie hip-hop is here to stay!