Kansas City’s arts and music scene flourished in 2021. As we look to the year ahead, these are some of the most exciting, rising stars that we’re keeping our eyes on. THIS LIST IS IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER, ALL OF THESE ARE AMAZING ARTISTS. PLEASE DO NOT BE PISSED IF WE MISSED YOU. ENJOY!
Amira Wang
With her viral “TikTok” single “Gimme” reaching millions, and top tier freestyle performances Amira Wang (@amira.wang) earned the reputation of one of the most talented artists in the city (and no, not just “female”). We would not be surprised if 2022 is the year she breaks out from the pack to a national audience.
MB58
MB58 (@mb58__) started rapping relatively recently and with some of his homies like Pooh, Domo, Boobie and DWalk. Quickly building an impressive and loyal fanbase, MB58 is especially admired by KC’s Younger crowd. He is no doubt a top KC rapper and has hits that can contest with any major national artists. His Remix of Futures “Mask Off” called “Mask On” was his first Breakout Record.
Jass
Innovative, versatile, the embodiment of living art, are a few ways to describe Jass (@jassrcouch). Whether beautifully performing the bass guitar, flawless vocal performances or floating on rollerskates, Jass brings ART, BLACKNESS, and an UNMATCHED Aura. She is the energy we need to make it through 2022.
D Walk
The Uncontested Champ. D Walk (@big_dwalk) currently holds the title in KC rap. Wizzle exploded and took over Missouri in 2021. His breakout record “Freak BlockTales” is played from areas like Power & Light KC and the 18th&Vine District, to massive clubs and college parties. We’re keeping our eyes peeled for major moves from D Walk and his camp in 2022.
Dellio
Dellio (dogg_246) is a true KC Rap Star. Helping to lead generations out of the dark ages in early KC Rap, he continues as a Metro Veteran. That’s “Free Game” for ya!
BLACKSTARKIDZ
Blackstarkidz (@BLACKSTARKIDZ) Break convention and norms for fun. The nostalgic, 2000’s era-inspired band is on the cusp of national stardom. Already performing on national tours, major music festivals and featuring on magazine covers, these cultural prodigies have massive mainstream potential.
Kye Colors
Without a doubt Kye Colors (@kyecolors) could make a GQ Cover in 2022, but his rap skills also “aint nothin to play wit”. Outlasting and Outgrowing a plethora of former “Hot KC Rappers” Kye consistently makes clear why his name must be included in discussions of Top KC artists.
Brooke Winter
A Premiere song-writer with radio-ready vocals, Brooke Winter (@brookexwinter) is more than ready for the Big Lights. From covers to original productions, she has proven she’s already capable of going head-to-head with many mainstream R&B artists.
DEVI
E.A DEVI is Kansas City. This is one of our voices in the street. Devi along with others will be looked to this year for music and direction for the KC Rap Mentality. Checkout his classic “Been There” on Youtube. Special respects to “SticcupKiid” & “Moblife-Tezz” R.I.P
Who did we miss? Drop a comment on our social media to let us know!
