When you think of the west, what music pops into your head? If you're not thinking about all the talented Hip-Hop and R&B artists the province of Alberta has to offer, these names might change your mind. Here are 10 rising artists either based or raised in Alberta that you should add to your playlist.
1. Temia
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Temia is a raw drill rapper. Her unapologetic lyrics reign the truth amongst her fanbase. As her career progresses, she has attracted thousands on social media, including 4Korners, the official D.J. for the Toronto Raptors. After a spontaneous freestyle at a Vancouver live music venue, he immediately knew that he needed her on his debut album 4Korners of the World. Together they created "Head Space Freestyle." Since then, Temia has been wowing audiences across the west coast and in Toronto. With an edgy delivery style, her bubbly personality makes up for her blunt lyrics. Check out her single "Different" as she breaks down why you should be a fan if you aren't already.
2. Mouraine
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Mouraine is Sudan-born and Edmonton-based rapper. He, his siblings and his mom left Sudan for Egypt seeking asylum and eventually found their way to Edmonton for a better life. During the pandemic, he took time to reflect on his artistry, and now he is quickly taking over sound waves. His 2021 summer debut Bigger Dreams EP caught people's attention, with his candid lyrics sharing stories of overcoming. With his eye on stardom and a goal to leave a legacy, this Prairie-based rapper recently released his second album, In Search of Gold, early May. The full-length album honours the results of Mouraine's hard work, his love life, and determination to make his big dreams come true.
3. Kiarrah Ireland
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Alluring fans with her sultry vocals, Ireland is a R&B singer with a jazzy tone. The Edmonton-based singer-songwriter has organically generated a fanbase over time. Her most popular single is "Timid," which was a part of her 2018 debut album, Throw It Back. Ireland captivates people with her own relationship advice that frequently reminds people of the characteristics needed to have a healthy relationship, so that both partners feel equally valued through her music. With ballad-driven melodies, her music will have you swagging. Tap into her music as she recently released new EP Ki of Love.
4. RTC Profit
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Rhythmically attacking any track he is on, The Calgary-based rapper swiftly spits bars as strongly as anyone in the province. His lyrics mirror the realities of life and at times are intentionally crafted to showcase vivid imagery. The emerging rapper recently discovered the benefits of collaboration which can be heard throughout his latest project, Conflict of Interest.
5. Kuzi Cee
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If you love a fully-fledged performer that can do it all on stage, you'll love Kuzi Cee. Kuzi Cee is an infectious performer who knows how to hypnotize an audience with his inventive dance moves and polished voice. His silky vocal range has booked him as a backup singer for Jessie Reyez and Michael Buble. The skilled live performer encompasses upbeat ballads that will get you moving.
6. Sinzere
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Sinzere's catalog is a modern-day textbook about Black history. Frequently rapping about the resilience of her ancestors, this Calgary rapper stays grounded in her roots and emphasizes the relevance of Black history in today's society. Whether it is addressing stereotypes that were fabricated during times of slavery or pivotal moments that are repeating, Sinzere probably has a song or a bar about it. If you're into Conscious Rap but enjoy a tweak song, check out Sinzere's catalog as she mixes Conscious Rap and upbeat tempos with a Funk twist. She just dropped the visual for "Ric Flair Flo" from album Tabula Rasa.
7. Jared Daniel
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If you like Daniel Caesar or Dylan Sinclair, you'll like Alberta's Jared Daniel. The smooth R&B singer-songwriter creates heart-throbbing records that get fans in their feelings. His most popular single "I Still" has over 100k streams and counting. The artist is known for wearing his heart on his sleeve within his music and in person. With soft-tempo melodies, his lyrics free him from the shackles of heartbreak. Frequently singing about the transition from darkness to freedom, his single "Grow" is no different. He just dropped "Tell Me" with Ottawa rapper City Fidelia.
8. K The Chosen
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Establishing himself as the “friendly neighborhood rapper,” this Zimbabwe-born and Calgary-based artist has been taking over the city one performance at a time. Committed to helping the creative community grow, K The Chosen is known for being a creative community advocate through his work and music. His artistry encompasses local poets, an Indigenous drummer and various Calgary-based music producers. He draws inspiration from social constructs and his experiences to create thought-provoking music.
9. Victory
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Raised in Alberta and now based in Toronto, this R&B singer will keep your playlist soulful. In 2021, Victory started garnering national attention for her single "Up," which was heavily rotated on CBC Radio. Since then, she has participated in programs such as Honey Jam Canada and collaborated with various Ontario-based artists. Today, she is entering a new era of her artistry with her latest single "Whatever I Want"
10. Cartel Madras
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Creating their own lane, Cartel Madras and their "goonda rap" have been making their mark on the Canadian music landscape. The genre pays homage to its South Asian roots while honouring the many influences in their music. Their music is designed to make listeners feel like they've been hit with an intense sound wave, while also drawing upon sexual empowerment. The angsty radical rap sound is enthralling and unique. Listen to their latest single, "MMM," to catch their drift.
