The Live Music Capital is home to some of hip-hop’s finest.
Austin and the surrounding areas have produced some of the best hip-hop acts, and we're lucky to be able to see them locally before they blow up and leave us in the dust. There are tons of Hip-Hop Artists in Austin; here are some of our favorites.
Contributed by Lainey Gonzales
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Comprised of Megz Kelli and Dougie Do, this rapper/producer duo took home this year’s coveted Austin Music Award for Best Hip-Hop. With Megz’ crisp cadences and Dougie’s smooth neo-soul beats, the pair creates pure magic. Follow Magna Carda on Instagram for updates on upcoming music and find their music here.
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Photo via Facebook
When you hear Mama Duke’s fearless lyrics and smooth delivery, you’ll understand why her debut album is called ‘Ballsy.’ Originally from Palacios, TX, Mama Duke is taking to the Austin hip-hop scene with confidence and poise, making songs that have infectious hooks you won’t be able to shake for days. Listen to her music and watch her videos here.
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Though the pair did not formally make music together until 2018, Zeale (aka Valin Zamarron) and Phranchyze (aka J.J. Shaw) have known each other since middle school. Both Austin natives, Blackillac has become one of Austin's most beloved acts (they took home the Austin Music Award for Best Hip-Hop last year). We are counting down the days until we can see one of their electric live shows again. In the meantime, you can hear their music here.
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Photo via Instagram
Bastrop born and raised, Deezie Brown has been making mixtapes since he was 10 years old. Combining his southern roots with lush soundscapes and top-notch hooks, it’s no wonder that Deezie has become an Austin staple. Check out his latest project The Geto Gala, and keep an eye out for his sophomore album due later this year.
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Photo via Instagram
Chucky BLK is the moniker for rapper and writer Charles Stephens. His sharp lyricism and quick flow is the product of his years in the slam poetry circuit (which he got his start in while attending Austin’s McCallum High). Stream his latest release ‘A Scathing Critique of Current Affairs’ and watch his newest video here.
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Photo via Instagram
Jerry Manning Jr. (aka Curbside Jones) is a rapper, graphic designer, photographer, and writer who made his way to ATX in 2010. Since then he has been putting out some of the best hip-hop in the city, collaborating with people from all over the world (his upcoming release ‘The Last Train’ features artists from Japan and the UK). Check out his entire discography on Bandcamp now and be on the lookout for ‘The Last Train’ in April.
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Photo credit: @in.hansland
Originally from Detroit, Mike Melinoe made Austin his home a few years back. Since moving here the rapper/painter has made quite the impression, from performing at SXSW, showcasing in the East Austin Studio Tour, and even securing his own day in the City of Austin (November 14, 2019). His latest single, ‘Costco,’ is a jam packed with punchy verses and fresh beats. Listen to it here.
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Photo via Instagram
Before she became BLakchyl, Te'aunna Moore got her start in East Austin’s youth hip-hop program, Cipher. Now, she’s making some of the most important music in town. Her latest album, H20d was ranked #6 on the Austin Chronicle’s Best of 2020 list. You can listen to the acclaimed album wherever you stream your music and watch her latest video here.
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EVEN MORE HIP-HOP ARTISTS WE LOVE:
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