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Top 5 Artists To Watch 2024 Wrap Up

In partnership with Verse Entertainment

By Ethan Stone

(Image: Provided)

1.     Raquel

(Image: Kevin Nguyen)

Raquel, a rising Canadian artist, is making waves in the global music scene with her bold blend of pop, electronic, and R&B. Known for her alluring vocals and edgy, glamorous aesthetic, she quickly captured attention with her debut single “Angel” featuring Kofi, which garnered praise from Complex Canada, and iHeart Radio. A classically trained pianist and dancer since the age of four, Raquel’s artistic influences range from love and empowerment to the cosmos—a nod to her academic background in astrophysics. Within just a year of launching her music career, she’s collaborated with artists like Kofi, TVGucci, and 11:11 on her debut EP “Wishing On Stars.” With upcoming releases, collaborations, and live performances on the horizon, Raquel’s dynamic artistry and unique voice are positioning her as one of the industry’s most exciting new talents.

2.     Paperboy Fabe

(Image: Paperboy Fabe)

In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary R&B, Paperboy Fabe stands out as a transformative force. A Grammy-nominated producer, he has redefined the genre, shaping the careers of influential artists like Brent Faiyaz, and Bibi Bourelly. His musical journey began at just six years old, immersed in the rhythmic pulse of church drumming and the rich textures of multiple instruments.

His ascent in the music world took a significant leap in 2002 when he clinched victory at his first beat battle in Atlanta. This win wasn’t just a personal triumph—it was the catalyst that thrust him into the limelight. A pivotal encounter with a West Coast hip-hop icon further propelled his career, inspiring him to build his own studio and focus on nurturing emerging talent. This move proved to be a masterstroke, leading to high-profile placements and collaborations that cemented his industry status.

In 2013, He relocated to Los Angeles, a city synonymous with musical innovation, where he continued to push creative boundaries, collaborating with artists like Bibi Bourelly and Brent Faiyaz. His 2017 single “Language,” featuring Faiyaz, was a major milestone, achieving Platinum status and amassing over 400 million streams. This success not only solidified his impact but also highlighted his ability to craft genre-defining hits.

His latest release, “Hundred Million Reasons” featuring Pink Sweat$, marks a triumphant return to the forefront of R&B, reaffirming his ongoing relevance and relentless pursuit of musical innovation. As he continues to break new ground and shape the future of R&B, he remains a crucial figure to watch, poised to lead the next wave of musical excellence with his unique blend of authenticity and visionary artistry.

3.     Juice The Mac

(Image: Juice The Mac)

In a music scene often dominated by the coasts, Juice The Mac is carving out his own lane from the heart of Oklahoma. A state better known for country music than hip-hop, he is quickly becoming its breakout star with a blend of raw talent, authentic storytelling, and relentless ambition. His journey hasn’t been easy—breaking into the rap game from a place with few hip-hop icons—but his music, a mix of vulnerability and celebration, is resonating far beyond Oklahoma’s borders. His music showcases his unique style, combining playful confidence with a deeper message of perseverance. But Juice isn’t just a rapper; he’s an entrepreneur, building his own label and business ventures with a vision to uplift his community. His hustle is as strong as his music, making him a force to watch. With a growing fanbase and an unstoppable drive, Juice The Mac is redefining what it means to rise from the Midwest, blending artistry with entrepreneurship in a way few artists have done before. This is just the beginning for Juice, and the world is taking notice.

4.     T’Challa King

(Image: T’Challa King)

In the ever-shifting terrain of electronic dance music, T’Challa King emerges as a true innovator, creating waves with his genre-blending prowess and cutting-edge sound. With a career that has continuously redefined the EDM landscape, his latest EP “The Disco” has made a significant impact which is accompanied by a multi part short film.

From a young age, his artistic journey was shaped by his roots in the church, where he began playing drums at just three years old. By seven, he was already mastering a variety of instruments and recording his own music, laying the groundwork for a remarkable career. His early immersion in music, coupled with an upbringing grounded in faith, helped him forge a unique identity as an artist.

By 17, King had earned a Grammy nomination, marking him as a prodigious talent in the EDM scene. His collaborations with industry giants like Ray Charles, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, and Slash of Guns N’ Roses showcased his versatility and established him as a prominent figure in pop culture. As the founder and lead member of the pop electronic EDM band Heroes, he has displayed his multifaceted skills, seamlessly playing guitar, piano, drums, and bass while producing an eclectic range of EDM and pop records.

T’Challa King continues to push the boundaries of electronic music, offering fresh and innovative perspectives that promise to shape the future of the genre. As an inspirational force in electronic dance music, he stands out as an artist whose visionary approach and unwavering dedication make him one to watch closely in the evolving EDM landscape.

5.     King Matta

(Image: King Matta)

King Matta, the rising star whose name is swiftly becoming synonymous with innovation in hip-hop, has solidified his place in the music world with a series of standout releases that captivate and thrill. Bursting onto the scene in 2021 with his chart-topping single “Make It Work,” featuring the formidable Tyler Lepley, Matta made an immediate impact, landing a coveted spot in the top 100 on the iTunes Hip Hop/Rap chart. This early success set the stage for what would become a rapidly ascending career.

Since his breakthrough, he has continued to make waves with a string of hit singles that showcase his remarkable talent and unyielding drive. His latest track, “Can’t Come Down,” has resonated deeply with listeners, amassing over 150,000 streams and reinforcing his status as a trailblazer in the genre. This song, like his others, exemplifies his relentless commitment to pushing creative boundaries and his dedication to his craft.

What sets him apart is his ability to blend raw energy with introspective, thought-provoking lyrics, all while maintaining a distinctive style that is both authentic and original. His music doesn’t just play—it commands attention, with a magnetic stage presence that enchants audiences and leaves a lasting impression. As he continues to explore new artistic horizons and captivate fans worldwide, there is no denying that he is a force to be reckoned with. His ascendant star is a testament to his unwavering passion and creative prowess, positioning him as one of the most exciting artists to watch in the evolving landscape of hip-hop.