Compton rapper YG gained success with debut single “Toot It and Boot It” in 2009, which led to a deal with Def Jam. In 2013, YG teamed up with L.A. producer DJ Mustard to craft his debut, My Brazy Life, a concept album about life on the streets that mixed YG’s unique brand of gangsta rap with Mustard’s Bay Area-inspired production. Still Brazy is a darker, less pop-friendly follow-up; its G-funk production and calls to social action recall Ice Cube’s early solo material. The album’s biggest single, and the namesake for YG’s most recent tour, is the enraged and powerful “Fuck Donald Trump.” Joining YG is up-and-coming rapper Kamaiyah, whose recent mixtape A Good Night in the Ghetto is one of this year’s most critically acclaimed.
YG Acclaimed Southern California rapper who draws from new-school style and bass-heavy gangsta rap. See Calendar Pick on p. 20.
KAMAIYAH Up-and-coming Bay Area based hip hop artist.
RJ L.A. rapper known for his collaborations with YG and DJ Mustard.
SAD BOY Up-and-coming Chicano MC.
DJ DARK KNIGHT With high energy and a positive attitude, this Atlanta DJ keeps the music flowing.
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