Known for its legacy of musical boundary-pushers, the Emerald City is now the breeding ground for a new era of west coast hip-hop. While legends like Sir Mix-a-Lot, Macklemore, Shabazz Palaces, and Nacho Picasso have carved out the city’s place in rap history, today’s underground rappers are rewriting the script, one track at a time.
Here’s a taste of the voices leading the charge in Seattle’s hip-hop renaissance.
AJ Suede
Listening to AJ Suede’s music is like wandering through the Sahara Desert high on acid. His beats—neon and psychedelic—collide and merge in unexpected ways. From his 2017 drop, Gotham Fortress, to his more recent Parthian Shots and Ark Flashington albums, every Suede God release is a testament to his chameleonic nature. His baritone voice—heavy, hypnotic, and soaked in abstract musings—glides over his beats like a serpent through water. His lyrics are a labyrinth of socio-political critique, obscure allusions, and mind-bending imagery. Suede isn’t just defying conventions; he’s creating a new lexicon in the rap universe.
Oblé Reed
Oblé Reed is the kind of guy who makes you believe every word he spits. He’s got this way of packing raw emotion and lyrical heft into every line, and he doesn’t need explicit language to shock you. His 2023 album, LINDENAVE!, is a testament to his skill, blending heartfelt stories with powerful delivery. Reed’s music is a mirror, reflecting real-life experiences and emotions, resonating on a frequency that cuts through the noise of mainstream rap.
BlkSknn
BlkSknn is like a blast from the past sent hurtling into the future. Imagine Nas meets Curren$y, but with a twist all his own. His sound is a hybrid beast, melding golden era vibes with modern, forward-thinking beats. His 2023 album, Quiet Kid in the Corner, produced by Soufend Music, is a raw look at his life, delivered with rewind-worthy bars and a style that defies easy categorization.
Karma Knows
Karma Knows is a shapeshifter, a musical chimera who blends the soulful depth of Anderson Paak with the energetic charisma of Andre 3000. His music is a fluid mix of rap and soul, each track a surprise. Just when you’re ready for a hard-hitting verse, he switches it up with a silky melody. Karma Knows’ sound is a seamless fusion, and his ability to balance these elements marks him as a standout in the Seattle scene.
10 Thousand Rats
If you think you know what to expect from Seattle rap, 10 Thousand Rats is here to throw you off balance. This duo—Jesse Desean and Andy Savoie from the band SUS—mixes rap, house, hip-hop, and electronic music into a concoction that’s as unpredictable as it is captivating. Desean’s sharp wordplay and laid-back flow pair perfectly with Savoie’s eclectic beats, creating an infectious sound that’s impossible to ignore.
Travis Thompson
Travis Thompson, straight outta Burien, is making waves with his unique blend of cultural influences. The son of a Navajo father and white mother, his music reflects his diverse heritage, tweaking hip-hop norms into something new. After his breakout feature on Macklemore’s “Corner Store” and his major-label debut with Runaways in 2019, Thompson continues to impress. His 2023 collaboration with Jake One, Wolves & White T’s, is a prime example of his playful spirit and lyrical prowess.
Astral Trap
Astral Trap’s music hits like a bolt of lightning—bright, intense, and impossible to ignore. His beats are thunderous, his rhymes out-there and introspective, pulling listeners into a deep, hypnotic state. He’s not just making music; he’s forging a path that stands out in the crowded Seattle scene.
Ca$h McClane (Bellingham)
From Bellingham, just a stone’s throw from Seattle, Ca$h McClane brings a gritty, no-nonsense style to the table. His beats, steeped in boom bap tradition, are the perfect backdrop for his straightforward lyrical flow. Representing Black Noise Records, McClane’s music is raw and evocative, offering an unfiltered look into his world.
J’Von
Oakland-born but Seattle-rooted, J’Von is a master of collaboration. His partnerships with Lakim and Ackryte produced the Left EP and Raw Sheep, respectively, both of which ripple with his distinctive sound. J’Von’s storytelling and versatility make him a pillar of the Seattle rap scene, constantly pushing the envelope and influencing his peers.
LIVt
LIVt is a maestro of contrasts, blending intense, soulful lyrics with serene beats. Her 2022 album, Pink and Orange, and the bold 2023 EP, I JUST WANT MY BITCHES TO FLY, showcase her vocal prowess and keen ear for perfect beats. LIVt’s music resonates with listeners seeking both depth and lightness, carving out a unique niche in Seattle’s diverse musical landscape.
Roque Thekickitmastah
From Washington’s Tri-Cities, Roque Thekickitmastah is all about relentless hustle. Dropping project after project, his productivity is matched only by the quality of his work. Scars and Trophies 2, his 2023 release, exemplifies his dedication and raw talent. Leading The Black Marqet crew, Roque is setting new standards in Washington’s underground scene, building a legacy with each release.
