Montana may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of hip-hop, but the state has a thriving scene full of talented artists and producers. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Montana rappers and hip-hop groups, from their history to their impact on the national stage.
The history of hip-hop in Montana
Hip-hop first emerged in Montana in the 1980s, when early pioneers like DJ Bass and MC David D started hosting parties and events. Hip-hop culture quickly spread throughout the state, with breakdancing crews and graffiti artists joining the movement.
Early influences and pioneers
One of the biggest influences on Montana hip-hop was the West Coast sound, with artists like Ice-T and Dr. Dre inspiring local acts to start producing music. In the early 1990s, groups like C-Sharp and The Outfit began making a name for themselves on the local scene, performing at clubs and festivals across the state.
The rise of local talent
Over the years, Montana hip-hop has continued to evolve and grow. Thanks to the rise of platforms like SoundCloud and YouTube, it’s easier than ever for artists to get their music heard. Today, Montana is home to a wide range of talented rappers and hip-hop groups, from established names to up-and-coming talent.
Notable moments in Montana hip-hop history
Some of the most notable moments in Montana hip-hop history include the release of Tarski and the Whatnots’ album “Dancing Astronauts” in 2008, which received critical acclaim and helped put Montana on the hip-hop map. In recent years, breakout artists like Overtime and Lil TJAY have gained national attention, putting Montana on the radar of hip-hop fans across the country.
Top Montana rappers and hip-hop groups
So who are the top Montana rappers and hip-hop groups? Let’s take a closer look.
Breakout artists
Overtime is one of the most successful breakout artists to come out of Montana in recent years. His unique flow and introspective lyrics have earned him millions of streams on Spotify and collaborations with well-known artists like Futuristic and Sik World. Other up-and-coming Montana rappers to watch include Lil TJAY, Aui, and T-Zank.
Established names
When it comes to established names in Montana hip-hop, there are a few that stand out. Skillethead, for example, has been a fixture on the local scene for years, performing at festivals and clubs across the state. Other established Montana rappers and hip-hop groups to check out include Solekwai, Double Wide, and Young Marquis.
Up-and-coming talent
Montana’s hip-hop scene is constantly evolving, with new talent emerging all the time. Some of the most promising up-and-coming artists include Yung Saz, Tony Bandz, and Sincerely Collins. Keep an eye on these artists and others like them for the future of Montana hip-hop.
The Montana hip-hop scene
So what does the Montana hip-hop scene look like? Let’s dive in.
Popular venues and events
One of the best ways to experience Montana hip-hop is by attending live events and performances. Popular venues include The Wilma in Missoula and Pub Station in Billings, both of which regularly host hip-hop shows. Other notable events include the Montana Hip-Hop Festival, which brings together artists and fans from across the state.
Local record labels and producers
Another key aspect of the Montana hip-hop scene is the presence of local record labels and producers. These companies play an important role in nurturing and promoting local talent, ensuring that Montana’s hip-hop scene continues to thrive. Some notable examples include Loyal Music Group and Endless Possibilities Entertainment.
Collaborations and community involvement
Montana’s hip-hop scene is also known for its strong sense of community and collaboration. Artists often work together on projects and shows, and local organizations like the Montana Hip-Hop Alliance work to support and promote Montana hip-hop culture.
The impact of Montana rappers on the national stage
Despite its relatively small size, Montana hip-hop has had a significant impact on the national stage. Let’s take a closer look.
Chart-topping hits and awards
Montana rappers and hip-hop groups have earned numerous chart-topping hits and awards over the years. In 2015, for example, Lil TJAY won the Montana Music Award for Best Rap Artist, and his 2018 single “Resume” has been streamed over 200 million times on Spotify. Meanwhile, groups like The Outfit have earned critical acclaim for their unique sound and style.
Collaborations with well-known artists
Montana rappers and hip-hop groups have also collaborated with well-known artists from across the country. Overtime, for example, has worked with Futuristic, who has over 1.5 million YouTube subscribers and millions of streams on Spotify. Other Montana artists who have collaborated with mainstream acts include Young Marquis and T-Zank.
Representation in mainstream media
Finally, Montana hip-hop has also received significant attention from mainstream media outlets. The New York Times, for example, has published several articles on the subject, while NPR’s “All Songs Considered” podcast has featured Montana artists like Yung Saz and Tony Bandz.
The future of Montana hip-hop
So what’s next for Montana hip-hop? Let’s take a look.
New artists to watch
As Montana’s hip-hop scene continues to grow, new artists and groups are sure to emerge. Some to watch include Zenn Dogg, who has been making waves with his unique sound and style, and Big Red, who brings a raw energy to his performances.
Trends and innovations
Montana hip-hop is also likely to continue to evolve and innovate, with artists experimenting with new sounds and styles. One trend we’re already seeing is a focus on incorporating elements of traditional Native American music into hip-hop, creating a unique fusion of cultures and sounds.
The role of social media and streaming platforms
Finally, social media and streaming platforms are likely to play an increasingly important role in Montana hip-hop. These platforms provide artists with a direct line to their fans and a way to share their music with the world, and will continue to be a key part of the Montana hip-hop scene for years to come.
Conclusion
Montana rappers and hip-hop groups may not be the most well-known in the country, but the state’s hip-hop scene is full of talented artists, producers, and fans. From the early pioneers who helped lay the foundation to the breakout artists making waves on the national stage, Montana hip-hop has a rich and diverse history. And with new talent emerging all the time, the future looks bright for Montana hip-hop.