Top 3 Upcoming NoCo Shows Hip-Hop Heads Won’t Want to Miss
The Colorado rap scene is still in its early stages, but more and more popular artists are starting to grace stages all over the state, and not just at Red Rocks or the Pepsi Center. Though the Colorado crowds may never be as into the scene as those in New York, Atlanta, or L.A., the industry is still growing. Here are the top three rap artists coming to Northern Colorado that you won’t want to miss in the coming months.
1. J.I.D — Wednesday, February 6 @ the Fox Theatre (Boulder)
After signing to J Cole’s Dreamville Records in February of 2017, J.I.D showed incredible lyrical ability throughout his first few projects. His latest Project, “DiCaprio II,” demonstrates his uncanny lyricism over a set of 14 tracks, made with varying producers. J.I.D provides the perfect mix of storytelling songs, as well as bass-heavy “bangers” that have become popular among young people in Fort Collins — all while giving J Cole a run for his money on his lyrics in featured tracks such as “Off Deez.”
A breakdown of the album and its reception can be found here.
The Atlanta-based rapper will be performing at the Fox Theatre this week (get your tickets!) as part of his Catch Me if You Can Tour. The tour comes on the heels of “DiCaprio II,” and the pun in the tour name is certainly intended.
2. Shwayze — Thursday, February 14 @ the Aggie Theatre (Fort Collins)
Way back in 2008 when most of us were still looking forward to middle school, Shwayze burst into the scene with a pair of hits called “Buzzin” and “Corona and Lime.” Since these two top-20 Billboards hits began circulating, it’s hard not to associate Shwayze with summer heat.
Shwayze is signed to Feel Good Entertainment, which is a perfect fit for his style of music. His lighthearted bars and touching storytelling have won the hearts of millions of listeners — perfect for a Valentine’s day show.
His 2013 project, “Shwayze Summer” embodies all his goals as an uplifting artist in a sometimes-controversial industry. He continued his streak of summertime beats with his 2015 project, “King of Summer.”
If you’re looking to go to a “gangsta rap” show, don’t attend this one.
To see a review of Shwayze and his music, click here.
3. Blueface — Friday, March 1 @ the Aggie Theatre (Fort Collins)
Viral for his strange off-beat rapping style, Blueface comes from a new wave of L.A.-based rappers.
The Crip-affiliated rapper’s latest pair of singles, “Thotiana” and “Bleed It” demonstrate exactly what people love — and hate — about Blueface. Blueface easily infiltrated social media culture, and from there built up his fame after being the subject of viral trends and internet challenges.
Some critics assume that since Blueface’s rhythm (or lack thereof) is so strange, he records his bars a week before producers send him a beat.
To hear tracks and learn about Blueface’s unusual path to stardom, click here.
Though his modern style of Gangsta-Rap is an acquired taste, particularly for mellow suburban Colorado crowds, who would want to miss the chance to see an internet sensation at such a small, intimate venue?
A review of Blueface’s latest album, “Famous Cryp” can be found here.
