Historically, Columbus’ music scene has honed a lengthy spectrum of artists who blur the perception of the "ideal" artist. And with Tieran Cline present, its only broadened the image and sound of Columbus hip-hop.
He’s unapologetically white, but that’s not what separates him as a creative -— nor should it. Instead, it’s his decision to pursue rap stardom by night, while balancing his life as a civil engineer by day.
Read MoreBizz is the quintessential conscious rapper. He embodies the qualities hip hop purists have revered, as he stirs from the new legion of artists who supplement substance for repetitive ad-libs and an overreliance on 808’s. Bizz opts to retain the components of alternative rap music, mirroring the styles of artists like J. Cole, Joey Badass and Kendrick Lamar.
Read MoreFRVRGOLD, the name of Big James and Kent’s collaborative effort sounds like a continuation of James’ latest project, NASAGOLD, which garnered praise upon its release in December 2016.
But it’s clear from track one that this isn’t an attempt to imitate his last project's sound.
Read MoreWith the emergence of Columbus artists pushing boundaries that transcend beyond the city, it’s hard to ignore this reality: Columbus is changing. One could even say the city’s evolving, as its artists are re-establishing some of the elements that made Columbus a cultural hub during the 1980s and 90s when creativity was arguably at its purist form.
Read MoreBig James’ “NASAGOLD EP” guides us on a blunt ash-filled trail through his life as a rising artist in the city. James illustrates his experiences with mystic and aerial production crafted by longtime producer, Sean Starks.
Similar to 2015’s “NASA EP,” Starks’ production offers a sound that seamlessly blends with James’ laidback vocals, which he uses to note how his success has led to the presence of women, recognition, praise, and criticism. All of which he talks about throughout the project’s eight tracks.
Read MoreAspiring rap collective King Cold, formed by artists AC Cold, Charle Sky, Absolutely Deplorable and producer StuntinSteve, offer a follow up to their debut project “King Cold EP1,” which encompassed a blend of R&B and atmospheric hip-hop production.
The group's latest project “#ChampionsAdjust,” however, diverges from its predecessor’s vocal-heavy choruses and introspective subject matter, instead embracing a humorous and creative tone.
Read MoreArtist Yaves has become a mainstay in Columbus’ music scene, as he’s proven to be one of the most established veterans in the city.
His projects “History in Progress” and “In Summers Ear” have elevated his arising fan base, who’ve become drawn to Yaves’ lyrical depictions of the drugs, violence and injustices that surround him, as well as the spiritual transformation that’s reshaped his new-found eminence.
Read MoreThe trap sound has become a staple in the city, as many artists have attempted to duplicate its formula, one that garners the attention of listeners searching for music that speaks to them.
Artist Tae Fresh is at the forefront of this sound, one he’s elevated through his stories of struggle growing up in North Columbus, his lifestyle prior to rap, his failed relationships with women, and his rising success in Columbus’ music scene.
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