Long gone are the days when a previously-untapped region in the South would spark a record label bidding war, a phenomenon that pushed local talent from Houston, Miami, and New Orleans squarely into the mainstream. But America, we're here to tell you that you missed out on one state who has been producing seriously dope records for the last decade. Welcome to Alabama.
It seems like a bunch of artists from the 'Bama have been blowing up lately, so we decided to compile a beginner's guide to Alabama rap for all you kids who only know about Rich Boy. Read on below to see the 7 essential songs you need to know, including classics from pioneers like Dirty and The Last Mr. Bigg alongside bangers from stars-in-the-making like Yelawolf and Jackie Chain...
• This quirky kid from Gadsden first popped up on our radar 2007 with his hick-hop mixtape Ball of Flames: The Ballad of Slick Rick E. Bobby, and he's only gotten more focused since then. After popping up on hooks for Juelz Sanatana and Slim Thug, he recently dropped his truly dope mixtape Trunk Muzik, featuring this dead-serious banger. With a unique sound, an impressive work-ethic, and a partnership with KP's Ghet-O-Vision, we're putting our money on Yelawolf in 2010.
Honorable Mentions to Birmingham J, 334 Mobb, G-Side, Paper Route Gangstaz, and all the other Alabama artists who are making major moves!
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