The Midwest has long been a fertile ground for innovative and genre-defining music, particularly in hip hop and R&B. From the gritty streets of Detroit to the bustling music scene in St. Louis, new artists are constantly emerging, ready to take the world by storm. Here are five upcoming Midwest artists who are making waves and are worth keeping an eye on.

BlakeIANA (St. Louis)


The St. Louis rapper rapidly rose to fame with the release of her first single in 2023, “Bing
Bong.” Since her debut in 2023, she has swiftly grown her fanbase with her distinctive style and
compelling tracks. Her track “STL Finest,” became a fan favorite as it showed her versatility and
ability to blend her style in collaboration with other artists. With a unique sound that captures the
essence of contemporary hip hop, BlakeIANA continues to push boundaries and solidify her
place in the music industry.

Pulled a him on him, now he swear he can’t stand bitches
Pulled a him on him, now he swear he can’t stand hoes (Hoes)

BlakeIANA (Bing Bong)

DaBoat (Detroit)


Detroit has always been a hotbed for unique and groundbreaking hip hop, and DaBoat
is no exception. Known for his alternative hip hop style, DaBoat has been steadily
building a reputation for dropping solid tracks that resonate with fans. His music often
blends introspective lyrics with experimental beats, creating a sound that is both
innovative and deeply personal. Fans are eagerly anticipating his new releases, as he
consistently proves himself to be a compelling and dynamic artist. His ability to push the
boundaries of hip hop while staying true to his roots makes him a standout figure in the
Midwest music scene.

Imma Detroit baby Cartier and all Minks.

22DaBoat (Fame)

Smino (St. Louis)


Hailing from St. Louis, Smino has been a breath of fresh air in the hip hop and R&B
scene. With his smooth flow, infectious melodies, and clever wordplay, Smino has
crafted a unique sound that blends elements of hip hop, funk, and soul. His debut album
“blkswn” and follow-up “NOIR” have both received critical acclaim, showcasing his
versatility and creativity. Smino’s music is marked by its rich production and his ability to
convey emotion through his lyrics, making him a beloved figure in the Midwest and
beyond. As he continues

Don’t give a Chuck bout no Berry, They rather listen to Elvis

Smino (Amphetamine)

Femdot (Chicago)


Femdot, an emerging artist from Chicago, has been gaining attention for his thoughtprovoking lyrics and versatile flow. His music often delves into personal and social
issues, blending sharp storytelling with a smooth delivery. His project “Delacreme 2” garnered
significant acclaim, showcasing his ability to weave intricate narratives with
compelling beats. Femdot’s dedication to authenticity and his passion for his craft have
earned him a loyal following. As he continues to drop new music and expand his reach,
Femdot is poised to make a significant impact on the hip hop scene.to grow and evolve, fans are excited to see what he will come
up with next.

These the things that had made us dangerous
Been knew how to move, knew all the angles
Can’t judge nobody none of us is angels
Always strings attached, my focus don’t get em tangled

Femdot. (94 Camry Music)

Liltae2 (Columbus)


Liltae2, an emerging rapper from Columbus, is quickly gaining recognition for his unique
style and compelling lyrics. Blending contemporary hip-hop with personal storytelling, he
captures the essence of his experiences and the vibrant culture of his hometown. His
music resonates with a growing fanbase, drawn to his authentic and relatable approach.
As Liltae2 continues to refine his craft, he is poised to make a significant impact on the
rap scene, representing Columbus with a fresh and dynamic voice.

I can hop on any beat because imma different breed.

LIlTae2 (What You Need pt.2)

Luh Kel (St. Louis)


Young and talented, Luh Kel is another artist putting St. Louis on the map. His smooth
R&B vocals and relatable lyrics have garnered a significant following, particularly among
younger listeners. His breakout single “Wrong” went viral on social media platforms,
leading to a record deal and the release of his debut project “Mixed Emotions” Luh
Kel’s music often revolves around themes of young love and heartbreak, delivered with
a sincerity that resonates with his audience. As he continues to develop his sound and
release new music, Luh Kel is poised to become a major player in the R&B scene.

We can do whatever girl, just tell me when you ready.

Luh Kel (Reminisce)


These six artists represent the diverse and dynamic nature of the Midwest music
scene. With their unique sounds and undeniable talent, they are all poised to make
significant impacts in the world of hip hop and R&B. Keep an eye on them as they
continue to rise and shape the future of music.

Nevaeh Dudley
Latest posts by Nevaeh Dudley (see all)