Often overshadowed by its reputation as the hipster capital of America, Portland hip-hop is on the rise, with new rappers and producers carving out their own lane in a city that hasn’t given them their due.
The genesis of Portland’s hip-hop scene traces back to the late 70s and early 80s, a time when pop-locker-turned-emcee Vursatyl began rapping. As one of the city’s early ambassadors of hip-hop, Vursatyl, alongside the trailblazing trio Lifesavas, brought a unique sound that resonated far beyond the Pacific Northwest and garnered a deal on the esteemed Quannum Projects label. Libretto, another cornerstone of Portland’s hip-hop heritage, emerged with a gritty style of his own and helped further cement Portland’s reputation. Then there’s Cool Nutz, a relentless force in the scene, whose work not only as a rapper but also as a promoter and community organizer was instrumental in nurturing local talent and pushing the city’s rap music into the spotlight.
In the years that followed, the scene ebbed and flowed, often battling the perception that Portland was too white, too indie, too offbeat for hip-hop. This perception began to change dramatically in 2016, when Aminé’s viral hit “Caroline” thrust Portland onto the national stage. His appearance on The Tonight Show with local neo-soul powerhouse Blossom and Portland rapper The Last Artful, Dodgr at his side, was more than just a performance—it was a declaration. Portland hip-hop was here, and it demanded to be heard. Dodgr’s collaborations with industry giants like Mark Ronson and Anderson Paak and the recent rise of Wynne have further solidified the city’s growing reputation. Long-time local fixtures like rappers Mic Capes, Myke Bogan and ePP have also held it down for Portland’s hip-hop scene for a minute.
Today, the torch is carried by a new generation of artists. Beyond the hipster coffee shops and indie rock Portland’s widely known for, there’s a hip-hop scene that’s not just surviving but thriving, pushing boundaries and making its mark on the music world. Here are some of the standout artists who are shaping the future of Rose City hip-hop.
Milc
A Portland-born-and-bred MC, Milc isn’t here to fit your preconceived narratives. Raised in Northeast Portland, a historically Black neighborhood that’s now largely gentrified, Milc’s Rose City roots run deep. In high school, his passion for rapping grew, drawing from influences like Cool Nutz and freestyling with viral sensation Harry Mack. His early rap career as part of Load B saw local fame but little commercial success, leading him to temporarily abandon his dreams for a warehouse job.
The pandemic reignited Milc’s ambition, where he hit his stride through collaborations with notable producers. With his cult favorite social media freestyles and collaborative LP Tiger Milc with producer Calvin Valentine, Milc began to capture broader attention beyond just his immediate circle. The real breakthrough came when Milc teamed up with Televangel, the renowned producer of Blue Sky Black Death fame. Their 2022 project, Neutral Milc Motel, marked a turning point, blending Milc’s humor, sharp punchlines, and deep-rooted Portland references into a cohesive narrative that blended well with Televangel’s expansive beats and made considerable waves in the rap underground. This collaboration cemented Milc’s status in the indie rap world, leading to the remix album Neutral Milc Motel: Extended Stay, featuring contributions from industry stalwarts like Blockhead and Child Actor, and a 2022 follow-up with Televangel titled The Fish That Saved Portland (one of my favorites of 2023).
Now, with an eye on continuing to build his reputation, Milc embodies the tenacity and unique flavor of Northeast Portland, ready to climb higher in the rap game’s ranks.
Televangel
Formerly known as Young God and one-half of the trailblazing production duo Blue Sky Black Death, Televangel has pivoted from his pivotal role in shaping the “cloud rap” sound to carving out a solo career. His beats are spacious yet meticulously constructed, creating an immersive sound that balances depth with clarity. This intricay has earned him a reputation for producing some of the most compelling beats in contemporary hip-hop.
Recently, Televangel has forged new collaborations with rising talents such as Seattle rapper AJ Suede and Milc, cementing his status as a visionary producer. Embodied by a relentless pursuit for innovation, Televangel’s production pushes the envelope to craft a richly layered world of sound that continually sets a high bar.
Old Grape God
Multidisciplinary artist/rapper Old Grape God channeled his pandemic experience into the type of burst of creativity that we all yearned for. Since 2020, he’s released over a dozen full-length albums, including 2024’s stellar Survival à la Mode. Some of Grape God’s best work yet has also come as part of a duet with Portland rapper Slick Devious called Paint Soup, who showcase their singular vision over woozy beats by some of Portland’s finest producers like Janeiro Lockhart.
Influenced by his mother’s work as a psychic medium, Old Grape God often finds his creative process tapping into another realm. A restlessness and colorful energy permeate his work and his prolific output showcases a one-of-a-kind style that’s garnered a spot in Portland alt-weekly Willamette Week’s Best New Band poll and a feature on a Toro Y Moi mixtape.
Slick Devious
Born and bred in Northeast Portland, Slick Devious’ music channels the raw, DIY spirit of the 2000s blog era, a time when artists forged direct connections with fans through self-produced, self-released albums—an authenticity now scarce in today’s often over polished releases. Like Old Grape God (who he collaborates with as the duo Paint Soup), he’s also known for prolific output, rolling out 30-track mixtapes with his Time Travel 444 crew and solo ventures that blend sardonic verses with daring sonic experiments.
Tracks like the viral sensation “Bus Max Walk (My BMW)” stand out as odes to Portland. For a good entry point into Slick’s music, check out 2023’s Mister Psycho, an album that continues to chart new creative frontiers, with features from Philly emcee Andrew and Seattle’s AJ Suede.
Ericboderek
A producer hailing from Oceanside, CA, and now entrenched in Portland’s rap scene, Ericboderek embodies the city’s spirit of collaboration and creativity. His journey from high school freestyler to accomplished beatmaker started with impromptu rap battles at lunch tables and continued into adulthood, when Ericboderek honed his craft with an MPC to develop a nostalgic, sample-based sound that resonates deeply with fans of classic hip-hop. For him, music is an avenue for self-expression and collaboration, with success being a welcome bonus.
A pivotal figure in Portland’s hip-hop landscape, Ericboderek has earned a reputation for his production prowess and his knack for uniting local talent. His 2023 album, Bloom, stands as a testament to this, featuring a diverse array of Portland emcees and exuding a soulful, laid-back vibe. Initially conceived as a modest project with friends, Bloom quickly evolved into a significant undertaking, reflecting Ericboderek’s commitment to showcasing Portland’s finest.
Soop Dread
Born in South Central LA, Soop Dread has spent the last decade weaving himself into the fabric of Portland, Oregon’s underground rap scene. Since 2008, he has constructed a prolific catalog characterized by a DIY punk ethos. Known for smooth flows, rewindable punchlines and captivating storytelling, Soop Dread’s music is a journey through the realms of self-discovery and personal growth. His early recordings, scattered like digital graffiti across the internet, boast lo-fi production and the magnetic allure of emcees like MF DOOM and Jay Electronica.
Recently, Soop Dread dropped two projects that showcase his continued rise as an artist—the stellar album Shine i Dread in 2023 and Silver Surfer in 2024, a two-track collaboration with London producer Morriarchi.
SXLXMXN
SXLXMXN (pronounced Solomon) is a chameleonic producer hailing from Portland, Oregon, whose career is a testament to the art of reinvention. Formerly known under monikers like Stewie Vuitton and Stewart Villain, each identity has marked a distinct chapter in his evolving soundscape. From a “weird trap phase” inspired by Three 6 Mafia and Waka Flocka Flame, to an eclectic sound influenced by the likes of Kaytranada and Kanye West, SXLXMXN is an artist who thrives on defying categorization.
His BPM-bending beats have been the backbone of tracks by notable artists such as Danny Brown, The Underachievers, Smoke DZA, and Portland’s own Mat Randol, carving out a unique niche in the hip-hop landscape. SXLXMXN’s versatility shines through his solo projects as well, particularly in his “University Park” mixtapes, which seamlessly blend gospel samples with classic verses from legends like Outkast and Jay Electronica.
SXLXMXN’s relentless innovation and refusal to be boxed in have made him a standout figure in the Portland music scene and beyond, continually pushing the boundaries of hip-hop production with each new release.
Dobleon
Hailing from the city of Woodburn, Oregon (about 40 minutes south of Portland) Dobleon has carved a unique niche for himself in the Pacific Northwest’s hip-hop scene. Not typically known as a hip-hop hotbed, Woodburn serves as the backdrop for Dobleon’s raw and incisive bilingual lyricism, which is often paired with neck-snapping boom bap beats. His music draws from his experiences and the culture of his hometown and though not technically a Portland native, Dobleon has become an essential figure in the Rose City rap scene while collaborating with a wide array of local artists.
Over the years, Dobleon has dropped several notable projects that have solidified his status in the regional rap scene, including standout albums like La Pantera and Pastel Stains. Dobleon’s trajectory in the Oregon rap scene is one to watch, as he continues to put Woodburn on the map and expand his influence, proving that powerful hip-hop can emerge from even the most unexpected places.
T.$poon
Formerly known as T Soprano, T.$poon emerged on the scene in 2007 but has since reinvented himself with a fresh moniker and a sharpened focus. Since the release of his 2018 breakthrough, Big Spoon EP, T.$poon has steadily amplified his presence in the Pacific Northwest. His evolution is marked by collaborations with top-tier artists and producers, including 2024’s $poon & Friends, further solidified his boundary-pushing sound while bringing Portland rappers like Milc and Wynne along for the ride. With a roster of collaborations that includes household names like Larry June and 03 Greedo, T.$poon is carving out a distinct space in Portland hip-hop, showcasing an unwavering consistency and a growing national appeal. As he continues to expand his catalog and influence, T.$poon is poised to become a defining force in the Pacific Northwest scene.
Bryson The Alien
In 2014, a young college graduate from Toledo, Ohio relocated to the Rose City, ready to dive into its offbeat creative scene. Bryson The Alien emerged from this transition, debuting with hail mary, a project blending his Toledo roots with his newfound Portland influence. Taking over his friend’s studio lease, he settled into the city, immersing himself in its DIY music culture and finding kinship among fellow artists. His unique style soon resonated in local showcases and open mics, expanding his network to include like-minded creatives.
Bryson’s connections became invaluable during the pandemic, leading to the creation of the group Unexplained Aerial Phenomenon with LA psych-synth duo Pioneer 11. The trio crafted Casual Abductions, an indie-rap gem featuring icons like Lil B The BasedGod and Open Mike Eagle. Bryson’s distinct, alien persona, influenced by OutKast, MF DOOM, and Kool Keith makes his work both cohesive and intriguingly unorthodox. His journey in Portland feels like a cosmic alignment, blending the earthly with the extraterrestrial.
Kid Mozes
Portland rapper Kid Mozes has emerged as a new voice in the city’s hip-hop scene, combining classic g-funk influences with contemporary sounds. From his early mixtapes like 2017’s Damaged Goods EP to his more recent releases like 2023’s Ruby Recluse (a collaboration with producer Sxlxmxn), Kid Mozes has shown impressive growth and versatility. As he continues to evolve his sound, Mozes remains committed to pushing the boundaries of his craft, making him a promising figure to watch in Portland’s thriving hip-hop community.
Korey B.
Hailing from nearby Hillsboro, OR, Korey B has been steadily making noise in the Portland music scene. Known for his lyrical chops, self-produced tracks and collaborations with local producers like Ericboderek, Korey B stands out in the hip-hop landscape for keeping his music soulful and focused on genuine expression.
Over the past few years, Korey B has released a substantial body of work, notably 2024’s B-SIDES, showcasing his underrated lyrical talent and distinctive production style. His commitment to real hip-hop has marked him as a rising voice in Portland’s hip-hop scene.
Something Something Brax
A Springfield, Oregon native, Something Something Brax stands as one of the Pacific Northwest’s most eclectic hidden gems. His style, reminiscent of the avant-garde flows of Old Grape God, who he’s also collaborated with, bursts with inventive rhyme schemes and wit. His 2022 album, Sunshine & Lollipops, showcases inventive flows, complex rhymes, and supreme intellect. Peppered with encyclopedic references, Brax’s music embodies the brainy spirit of underground staples like the Project Blowed and Anticon crews. While he only has a few releases under his belt, Brax’s one-of-a-kind style and personality definitely make him an artist to watch in Portland’s rap scene.
Mat Randol
North Portland native Mat Randol’s career is a journey of introspection, with lyrics that read like memoirs and lessons in perseverance. Falling in love with music at a young age, Mat began songwriting and self-producing at his grandmother’s house when he was just 15. From that bedroom studio, he has emerged as a prominent voice in the Portland hip-hop scene, known for his raw honesty and fearless discussions of mental health, including his own battles with anxiety and depression.
Since his early releases, 2015’s Alignment and 2016’s Libero, Mat Randol has continually evolved his sound. This growth culminated in two acclaimed albums: 2018’s Art of Allowing and 2021’s What Are You Afraid Of? Mat’s music is a heartfelt advocacy for mental health, marked by his willingness to wear his heart on his sleeve and speak his mind without reservation, making him a very relatable figure in hip-hop.
Bocha
Bocha exemplifies the fusion of artistry and activism. As the co-founder of Produce Organics (alongside Portland rapper Donte Thomas), a Portland-based brand and artist collective, Bocha’s trajectory is defined by both musical excellence and a commitment to social justice. His 2019 recognition as one of Willamette Week’s “Best New Bands” aligns him with breakout stars like Aminé and Dodgr, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Bocha’s influence extends beyond the recording studio. He is a fervent advocate on the frontlines of protests, championing justice for George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and countless others. His 2023 album, Everything Must Go, and the compelling in-studio video for “Brown Skin” – a track that transforms societal negativity into a powerful celebration of Black pride – are career highlights and excellent entry points into his stellar music catalogue.
Donte Thomas
For over a decade, Produce Organics co-founder Donte Thomas has been one of Portland’s not-so-best-kept secrets, captivating fans with his sharp, introspective lyricism and lush, melodic beats. Featured in Complex, Pigeons & Planes, and NPR, and having shared stages with heavyweights like Wiz Khalifa, French Montana, and Playboi Carti, Donte Thomas’s reach extends far beyond Portland. His music blends poetic insight with beats that slap, capturing the nuanced dramas of everyday life and turning personal anecdotes into lessons on resilience and truth.
His 2024 album, an APPLE a day, stands as a testament to Thomas’s growth as both an artist and a chronicler of the human spirit. Through songs like “GOTTA GET UP” and “RUNNIN,” Thomas explores the daily grind and personal reckonings, painting vivid sketches of struggle and triumph against a sonic backdrop that bridges boom-bap nostalgia with avant-garde contemporary sound.
Saige Wolley
In the ever-changing landscape of Portland, Saige Wolley emerges as a powerful voice, narrating lucid storytelling and vivid imagery. Wolley’s music is fully immersive—each verse a visceral snapshot that slices through Portland’s hipster veneer.
His work stands out for its unvarnished approach and profound narrative depth. As a storyteller, he leads you through the labyrinth of his city with a steady hand and a clarity that cuts to the bone. In a city where change is the only constant, Saige Wolley’s voice remains a steady guide, cementing his place as a key figure in Portland’s rap world.
MLTZR
A versatile producer and bassist, MLTZR fuses his jazz roots with innovative electronic/hip-hop music to create a sound that’s both familiar and refreshingly avant-garde. His journey from the world of jazz to the realm of beats began in college, sparked by the discovery of the SP-404 sampler, which allowed him to infuse his productions with the improvisational essence of jazz.
MLTZR’s performances, whether at beat cyphers like A Beat Happening (see below) or while scoring films in historic theaters, are a testament to his genre-blending prowess. As the creative coordinator for Ext.606 recording studio, he also leads diverse programming efforts both within the studio and out in the field, notably spearheading youth-focused initiatives in collaboration with Multnomah County Libraries.
G-LOW
Portland MC G-LOW has been in the music scene since he was 15, coming of age in an era where freestyling and battling were rites of passage for aspiring artists. Over the years, G-LOW has refined his lyrical abilities and built a reputation through collaborations and live performances.
In 2021, he dropped Don’t Forget To Smile, an EP that highlighted his smooth, effortless flow. This project marked a significant milestone, and he followed it up two years later with Open The Vents, an EP that underscores his journey from a freestyle novice to a seasoned artist.
