COLLiDE has recently worked with some stellar hip-hop artist—check out the ones that HAVE to be on your radar!
When it comes to the latest musical styles and trends, hip-hop artists have always led the charge. Unafraid to disrupt the status-quo, change-makers throughout history have pushed hip-hop to the forefront, and their modern contemporaries have carried on the tradition. COLLiDE had the chance to work with a few of these cultural innovators, and we’re highlighting the ones to watch! These are the hip-hop artists you absolutely can’t miss.
Born and raised in Chicago but based in Los Angeles, NEZ is one of the most exciting artists working today. He hit his stride as one-half of the Grammy-winning production duo Nez & Rio, turning out massive hits for the likes ScHoolboy Q and A$AP Rocky, and soon ventured into solo projects. Now, NEZ is known for his handful of dance and EDM-infused singles, as well as his energetic and infectious personality. Check out more of NEZ from his Dr. Marten’s Presents: Music and Film Series episode!
Another Dr. Marten’s veteran, Tolliver’s blend of modern hip-hop beats and soulful beats is truly one of a kind. The energy of “America’s Next Bop Model” is unmatched, and the story of grit and determination behind the artist will lead to an even greater appreciation of his already-infectious spirit. Tolliver’s latest single “Say What!” boasts groovy bass lines and a backbeat guaranteed to make you dance, just like the rest of his colorful catalog. Get to know him a little better in his Dr. Marten’s Presents: Music and Film Series episode!
If you’ve turned on the radio sometime in the past 10 years, chances are you’ve heard Maejor’s work. The producer behind hits from Justin Bieber, Ciara, Wacka Flocka Flame, and more, Maejor has been instrumental in creating some of music’s biggest earworms. But the Detroit artist doesn’t stop at just hip-hop and pop production—he recently began releasing music at the “healing frequency” of 432 Hz, becoming one of the first major artists to do so. Read more about Maejor with our coverage on his latest projects!
With songwriting credits for Usher, Charlie Puth, and Ty Dolla $ign, Paris Jones has established herself as an influential lyricist in today’s pop landscape. But as PJ, Jones has channeled her skills into an array of confident and joyous solo projects. North Carolina-born but Los Angeles-based, PJ has released a steady stream of solo endeavors since 2016, putting out R&B and hip-hop grooves filled with positive energy. She scored a hit with 2020’s “Element,” which featured on the soundtrack for HBO’s Insecure and added a feature from Alabama rapper Flo Milli for the remix. Head to our coverage on last year’s Waiting for Paris EP for more on PJ!
An artist, songwriter, curator, and coordinator, BOREGARD. has been a driving force behind the modern music scene in Atlanta. BOREGARD. boasts intricate wordplay and rhyme schemes with his rapping, all anchored by catchy hip-hop beats and eclectic instrumentals. His bars are guaranteed to make you think twice, and the beats will stick with you long after the track has run its course. Check out more from BOREGARD. with his Quaranzine feature!
