Rappers to Watch Out for in 2025

Music Journalist

Bryce Sexson

We’re only two months into the new year, and it’s already been a record-breaking year for rap. Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl performance broke Michael Jackson’s record for the most viewed half-time performance, and Doechii’s win in the Grammys “Best Rap Album” category, makes her one of the three women to ever receive the award. With monumental wins and historic performances, it’s clear that the world is watching and waiting for what’s to come next, perhaps even anticipating who comes next. Many underground artists possess the talent for a career breakthrough, but today I compiled a list of three rappers I believe are poised for mainstream success this year. These artists address gaps in the rap genre by offering unique, but still familiar, lyrical perspectives and an interesting quality of production. Though they take inspiration from the greats, they prove that they can assert their place in an industry that adapts to constant shifts.

Lauryn Hill meets Erykah Badu when it comes to the style of rap’s rising star, Samara Cyn. Being raised in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Samara doesn’t have the typical upbringing of other prolific rappers, though her parents’ frequent movement introduced her to a mosaic of different cultures. Her mother, being an English teacher, had a powerful impact on her through the art of poetry. She began performing in college at open mic nights, and now lives in Los Angeles to pursue a career in music. Her vision is to create music that resonates with a broad audience and is committed to using her platform to address social issues. In October of last year, she released her debut EP, The Drive Home. The album mixes elements of hip hop and r&b, heavily emphasizing Samara’s lyrical prowess. The production of her music could be classified as lo-fi hip hop, marked by its mellow and understated tones, while implementing trap elements in a number of her songs. If you’re a fan of Doja Cat’s original work, you’ll be sure to enjoy Samara Cyn. Last year’s album featured excellent songs, “Sinner” and “100sqft” being my personal recommendations. Check out Samara’s newest single, “Pop n Olive”, which was released earlier this week.

The DMV rap scene’s latest prodigy goes by the name, Nino Paid. His music delves into raw narratives of hardship, with a trap-infused sound that listeners of the genre could easily integrate him into their rotations. With a willingness to evolve his sound, shown in his sound progression seen in his albums Can’t Go Bacc and Love Me As I Am, Paid is clearly eager to learn and isn’t afraid to surprise his fans with his continued sonic exploration. In February, Paid released his second album, Love Me As I Am, featuring the likes of Tommy Richman. Influenced by the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) rap scene, the album demonstrates a range of song textures and proves his desire to experiment with his sound. His genuine authenticity and vulnerability show his fans that he wants them to know who he is and how he feels, despite his reserved demeanor. Nino Paid has more than what it takes to establish a powerful presence in a genre that is constantly gaining new talent. His newest single, “Real Life” released last Friday, and he is currently gearing up for a tour.

Sadboi takes an unapologetic club-oriented approach to rap music, similar to the likes of Flo Milli and Megan Thee Stallion. Coming from partial Jamaican descent, Sadboi implements styles of reggae and soca into her music that make for a unique sound unlike that of comparable artists. Her music is clearly made for dancing, containing high-energy production qualities with face-paced lyrics, but she isn’t afraid to include lyrics describing the personal challenges she has faced in her life. Her album releases last year showcased her ability to blend funk, r&b and electronic Caribbean sounds. On Valentines Day, she released her newest single “THERAPIST”, which brings out Sadboi’s sultry side, focusing heavily on an r&b sound. Her work establishes Sadboi as an imposing figure with talent in multiple genres, ensuring that if she keeps up her momentum, we could see her as rap’s newest emerging artist.

With a year already full of surprises, a case can be made for any underground artist to become the next big thing. Evaluating recent trends and an increasing fan base for female rap, it can be expected that these artists make a name for themselves in the near future. Their talent is undeniable, and their presence is something that would be welcomed into the genre. Their raw talent, already shown in their original work, demonstrates their ability to thrive in a musical landscape where many struggle to produce satisfactory original content.