Julian Malone

A couple of weeks ago we posted David Newman’s list of the top rappers in Chicago for the year-ending 2012.  This was not a list created or endorsed by rubyhornet, and we said thus in the article.  Following the post, we got hit with a lot of tweets, emails, and comments surrounding the list in question. Some thought that we made it up, others agreed with our questions as to its credibility, and others demanded that we create our own.  In the last couple weeks, we decided to put together a proper response to highlight the emerging and established talent in our city, but felt that one list of “the best rappers” wouldn’t really be fair, or even doable.  There are a tremendous amount of talented artists in the windy city right now, but they exist at totally different points in their respective careers and accomplishments.

With that in mind we put together The Come Up: Chicago Artists To Watch In 2013, a collection of artists that are poised to lead Chicago’s scene in the year to come.  This isn’t a “who’s the best” type of list, or really a list at all.  It’s a feature that we put together that highlights the artists that really hit the scene in 2012, and if they continue at this pace, will be where artists like YP, Rockie, Chance, King L, Tree, and several OG’s are at right now.  These are artists who are in really good positions, and are really talented.  They may have dropped a project or two, or could be solely known for guest appearances and loose tracks.  The thing they all share is a great opportunity to excel in 2013 with hard work, a humble approach, and consistent quality music.  If you haven’t heard of them yet, that’s great. You will soon.

We selected 15 artists to profile in this feature, with a final page full of others that are promising but still have a little ways to go.  Hit the next page to read up on each artist, and see who made The Come Up.  Check back later this week for more year-end wrap-ups.

-Compiled by Sean CK and Alexander Fruchter