Every year, we nominate three artists who have made the biggest impact on hip-hop, and our first Artist of the Year was an easy choice.
Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar has dominated 2024.
From delivering chart-topping hits and winning prestigious awards to sparking cultural conversations and achieving new career milestones,
Kendrick’s influence has been both immense and undeniable.
Kendrick’s single Not Like Us captured the spirit of the year. Its innovative production, sharp lyricism, and unrelenting message earned it BET Award: *Song of the Year*.
It wasn’t just a hit; it was a cultural anthem.
Just as the world thought his impact couldn’t grow, Kendrick dropped GNX, an unexpected and impressive album. The project showcased his ability to evolve as an artist, blending sharp lyricism with fresh, innovative sounds.
Its release reinforced why Kendrick remains one of the most influential voices in hip-hop today.
Doechii
Our second Artist of the Year is none other than the unstoppable Doechii!
Last year, we named Doechii as "one to watch". Well... 2024 was her breakout moment, and she made every second count.
With three Grammy nominations—Best New Artist, Best Rap Performance (Nissan Altima), and Best Rap Album (Alligator Bites Never Heal)—Doechii cemented her place as a rising star redefining the sound of hip-hop.
Her album Alligator Bites Never Heal is one of the best hip-hop albums of the year, introducing a bold, fresh, yet deeply rooted sound that captivated listeners.
On stage, Doechii was a force of nature. Whether it was her electrifying Tiny Desk Concert, her memorable spot on The Late Show, or her raw energy during Genius Open Mic, every performance proved why she’s one of the most exciting artists in the game.
Tyler, the Creator
Our third Artist of the Year is none other than Tyler, The Creator
Tyler is a visionary who continues to redefine what it means to be an artist.
Tyler, The Creator is an artist who doesn’t just release albums — he has eras.
Each project is a reflection of his current state of mind, and his latest album Chromakopia is no exception.
It’s a masterclass in vulnerability and creativity. This deeply personal project shows Tyler at his rawest, tackling themes of adulthood, identity, and fame with fearless honesty.
From the moment of its release, Chromakopia dominated the Billboard 200 for three consecutive weeks, making Tyler the only hip-hop artist to achieve this in 2024.
Chromakopia is a testament to an artist who always stays true to himself. Tyler’s latest era is his biggest yet, and we can’t wait to see where his journey takes us next.
But Tyler’s influence extends far beyond his albums. This year, he marked the 10th edition of Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival, a festival that has become a cultural beacon.
And then there are his live performances. Anyone lucky enough to see him on stage knows his energy is unmatched. Tyler transforms the stage into an immersive experience, blending his electric presence with theatrical visuals and striking artistic direction. Every performance is a reminder of why he’s one of the most captivating artists of our time.
