Up and Coming Artist: Perry Maysun

Emma Paff

Music Journalist Rap/Hip-Hop

Perry Maysun first appeared on my TikTok FYP in March 2024, and I’ve been closely following him ever since. The 22-year-old is an alternative hip-hop artist from New York. Maysun’s discography takes me on a journey exploring mental health, substance abuse, and existential pain. His lyricism, combined with ZionKatz’s production style, creates a space of honesty and vulnerability that resonates deeply with his audience. His audience suspects that he draws influence from Kanye West and Mac Miller, as he pushes the boundaries of what we would expect hip-hop music to sound like.

In February 2024, Maysun was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer that caused a tumor to form on his left knee. Maysun continued to create while enduring chemotherapy treatments and preparing for full knee and femur replacement surgery. He would record songs, paint, and write poetry from his hospital bed. His community and fans rallied behind him during this difficult time, raising over $50,000 on GoFundMe for his treatment and living expenses.

On Oct. 24, 2024, Maysun rang the bell, indicating that he was officially cancer-free. While battling cancer and going through recovery, he still managed to release 5 albums in 2024. His determination to continue to create was powerful and inspiring, and he did not let his fans down.

One of my favorite releases is his album, Naked, which was released at the end of February 2024. His song “To the Dust We Shall Return” embraces his fear of dying young before he can accomplish his goals of making it in the music industry. This album features his vocals on the track “Look Forward To?” where he expresses his uncertainty in his relationship with his family and his future, stating how he just wants something to look forward to.

Maysun’s musical style reflects that of Earl Sweatshirt and JPEGMAFIA. Like Earl, he utilizes lo-fi beats and samples short spoken conversations that are heard at the beginning and throughout his songs. Songs with this style include “I Am Worm Food”, “To the Dust We Shall Return”, and “Head High”. Maysun also has a more aggressive side to him, mirroring that of JPEGMAFIA. His more intense tracks include “Cabin Fever”, “Joel”, and “Somber Home”. His emotionally charged tracks and vulnerability allow his listeners to resonate with him and his journey.

On June 9th, Maysun will release a new six-song EP called “Reverie VI”. The lead single and second track on his album is called “Shrink”. Performed by Maysun, ZionKatz, and ELCAVADOR, “Shrink” delves into his current relationship and the insecurities surrounding it. Maysun begins the track talking about his struggles with abusing substances, stating how he is codependent on his sins and still has thoughts of relapsing. Maysun proudly states that he has found the love of his life, whom he views as his medicine. He hopes she can handle his past and the emotional baggage that comes with it. The layered beat is a combination of jazz, with piano and what sounds like a saxophone playing in the background, and an 808 in the foreground keeping the beat going. The unique beat and thought-provoking lyrics help to set the tone for this album.

Perry Maysun’s motto is BYOBF, “be your own best friend.” Throughout his journey as an artist, he has promoted self-love and acceptance, even during his loneliest times. His unique vocal style and blending of instrumentals will keep listeners on their toes for years to come. I am looking forward to watching him grow as an artist and explore his creativity. I would highly recommend giving Maysun’s music a listen and checking out his social media. He is a very active poster on TikTok, @perrymaysunn, which is a great way to keep up with his new music and art.