Artist To Watch
Memphis’ next rising rap diva Lil Q shares “Who Dat (Make It Clap)”
18-year-old Lil Q might look delicate, but appearances can be deceiving. Armed with a snapping flow and a bottomless bag of bars, the Memphis native displays just a fraction of what she can do on “Who Dat (Make It Clap),” her new single and music video. Produced by BLWYRMND (Offset, Tinashe, IDK), “Who Dat” does not need much to inspire pandemonium, just crisp snares and 808s boosted enough to make walls shake. Lil Q uses her force of personality to fill in the copious negative space, her sirenic southern drawl sitting halfway between “cheerleader” and “drill sergeant” as she makes sure listeners know exactly who they’re dealing with: “And I’m gettin’ A’s and B’s, none these b*tches C’ing me/I put that Dawg up in D, and I make this sh*t look E-Z,” she spits.
The new single arrives with a music video that showcases Q’s compelling screen presence. Dressed in all-white everything, the young artist performs in front of a white background, before the screen transforms to illustrate her lyrics and show clips from her recent high school graduation.
Growing up in Memphis, Lil Q developed a love for music at a young age, inspired by artists like Kendrick Lamar, Meek Mill, and others. Though her family was not very musical, she found an early sparring partner in her older brother, Freeband Lil Steve, who she would cypher with in their parents’ home. While she started recording as early as 13, her primary focus during her teen years was basketball–Q was a high-level AAU player, and while she excelled, her heart lay not in athletics, but her artistic pursuits. Still, her basketball career helped her build a local profile that aided her rapping ambitions, giving her a social platform to showcase her talent and drawing attention of popping local rappers like Big Boogie, Gloss Up, and Glockianna. Last year, Q earned praise from ABC 24 Memphis after winning the legendary Stax Academy’s Mic Drop Talent Showcase. Q recently strutted her stuff with a live performance of her song “Going In: Reloaded” on On The Radar, and showed her prodigious freestyling ability on Memphis’s own “Famous Animal.”
This Fall, as she prepared to launch her rap career into a new stratosphere, Lil Q and her family were rocked by a tragedy: the passing of her brother Lil Steve. Growing up in Memphis, Lil Q had experienced loss before, but the loss of her brother, who was the first supporter of her rap music, took a massive toll. Lil Q resolves to honor his memory by becoming the star he knew she can be, honoring his memory with every word of every verse.
Stay tuned for much more from Lil Q, as she plans her world takeover.
Artist To Watch
Virginia’s Breeze Barker Kicks Off The Spring With His Triumphant Single “Ring The Alarm”
Breeze Barker (@breezebarker) is a seasoned rap veteran with the energy of a #1 pick in the draft. His new banger “Ring The Alarm” marks a new era for the Portsmouth-raised emcee who has earned his stripes as an emcee throughout his decorated rap career. The horn-laced instrumental pairs perfectly with his signature raspy tone and impeccable flow that has helped him become a staple within the 757 area of Virginia.
After building momentum with a slew of freestyles, including his regionally viral remake of G Herbo’s “Norfolk,” Barker is proving that his new project is on pace to be his best due to his increased hunger and undeniable charisma. He was one of the most exciting bar spitters from the region before catching Timbaland’s attention. Ultimately, he made a mixtape with him and fellow Virginia legend Young Crazy. Their collaborative mixtape Sharks x Pistols received major love on blogs, including top outlets like All Hip Hop and more.
“Ring The Alarm” is the beginning for the fiery yet fly emcee. While known for his knack for fashion, he’s letting it be known he hasn’t missed a step ahead of his most anticipated project in a while. Press play on the new single below from his forthcoming LP!
Stream here!
We’re excited to share some major news out of North Carolina’s rising Hip Hop scene. Rapper OTYOUNGTAE is gearing up to release his highly anticipated project titled 25, slated to drop in late May.
With momentum building and eyes on his next move, OTYOUNGTAE recently opened up about the inspiration behind the title. “Because I feel as if this is a transitional year for me for real, a peak level in my life. Everything after this is elevation,” he shared. That mindset sets the tone for what’s shaping up to be a standout release.
25 will feature a lineup of A-list collaborators, including label mate Playboy Poppy, promising a project that blends personal growth with high-level artistry. Whether you’re new to OTYOUNGTAE or already tuned in, this upcoming drop is one to watch.
Stay locked in—we’ll be bringing more updates as the release date approaches. In the meantime, follow @otyoungtae on Instagram for the latest news and exclusive content.
Virginia Beach rapper J.R. Clark and rising talent KAI$er join forces for “Stay Solid”, a no-frills anthem about loyalty, resilience, and standing firm in a world that too often rewards the opposite. Released via Vintage Sound Entertainment, the single pairs sleek production with razor-sharp verses that reflect each artist’s commitment to authenticity—both in life and lyricism.
“Stay Solid” is more than just a street sermon. It’s a statement: one that encourages listeners to stay grounded, trust their instincts, and never fold under pressure. As J.R. Clark spits vivid lines born from real-life experience, KAI$er provides the perfect counterbalance with a smooth yet commanding delivery that underscores the song’s message. The chemistry is undeniable. The result? A track that sits comfortably between classic hustle rap and modern motivational soundtracks.
Check out the video below:
Star2 x Sprite x Luh Kel Drop “Where Would You Go?”
Virginia’s Breeze Barker Kicks Off The Spring With His Triumphant Single “Ring The Alarm”
OTYOUNGTAE Announces New Project “25,” Dropping This May
J.R. Clark and KAI$er drop an anthem with “Stay Solid”
Following A COLORS SHOW Debut, Joony Releases New Single “Dopa(MINE)” on Red Bull Records/EVGLE/211 With Official Visualizer
OTYOUNGTAE Announces New Project “25,” Dropping This May
Virginia’s Breeze Barker Kicks Off The Spring With His Triumphant Single “Ring The Alarm”
Star2 x Sprite x Luh Kel Drop “Where Would You Go?”
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