West Coast Music Artists Kendrick Lamar, HittaJ3, Wallie the Sensei, Az Chike, Dody6
It's the top of the year, and West Coast Hip Hop and Rap artists are running the music scene. Lamar dominated in 2024, using his insane lyricism to defeat music artist Drake in a decade-plus-long rap beef, sending audiences raving over the spilled industry tea while the artists duke it out over wax. Fans of both artists dissected lyrics and timelines and debated which artist was best and who was to claim victory. While a particular fan base refuses to accept the Victor of the squabble, the proof remains in the music. Which in turn proliferated a rejuvenation in West Coast music. Lamar introduced the world to local artists and simultaneously made hits and haters mad. It has been epic to witness in real-time and is undoubtedly a pivotal moment in hip-hop history.
Lamar's execution with dropping singles & features, his latest album GNX, and announcing his coming tour were ideal for consumers. I appreciate the pace at which Lamar presented his work to audiences; he didn't overload listeners with multiple bodies of work. I get that artists sometimes have to strike while the iron is hot, but there are times when less is more. Lamar allowed his audience to sit with his projects and process the art. In an era of microwave quickies, this is "a breath of fresh air" for music listeners who appreciate quality over quantity. I think the GNX album playlist length is perfect; his featured artist complimented the songs, and most of the 12-track album was more than three minutes. Kendrick also gave his fans what they asked for; they wanted to dance more. He said less and got in the booth, and let me tell you, the way I have been dancing around my house to "Not Like Us," "Hey Now," "TV Off," and "Peekaboo," you'd think I was preparing for a great dance off.
Lastly, I want LA music artists, fans, and supporters to understand that the East will never show the West love in mass when discussing music. There has always been a competitive rivalry; while prior rap beefs have gotten volatile, it's simply healthy competitiveness, and I'd stop expecting an unbiased opinion from podcasters, bloggers, and commentators siding with the East. Consider it this way: Canada plays in the Eastern Conference; accept it and move accordingly. I think Joey Badass was not wrong for speaking up. If this is needed to make the quality artist step to the front of the class, then I am here for it. So, to all West Coast rap and hip hop artists, get in the booth and prepare your best rhymes because they see that Cali sunSHINE and are gunnin' for the top spot.
Comments