CHICAGO’S HARDEST PROJECTS OF 2024
Chicago features one of the most eclectic music scenes in the world for a reason—inspiration comes from everywhere. From the city’s anthemic Drill wave to its roots in the Blues, Chi-Town has always been a proving ground for next level talent—especially in rap. Artists like Kanye West, Chance The Rapper, Juice WRLD, G Herbo, Chief Keef, Lil Durk and more have all made their mark on the game in their own respects. But now, a new era of Chicago artists are leading the charge—pushing the culture forward and bringing a refreshing wave to the city’s versatile sound.
CNCRT presents: Chicago’s Hardest Projects of 2024.
What’s YOUR favorite Chicago project of this past year?
Written and curated by Jon Barlas and Danny Pleckham.
D2x — THE HUNGER ERA
Favorite Tracks: "WOW!" (feat. Chris Patrick), "MARVEL!" (feat. Ausar), “THE ART OF HUNGER”
D2X has come a long way in his career in such a short amount of time. His latest EP, The Hunger Era, is a prime example of this growth—not only focusing on the music, but building an immersive world around him. Just over a year after dropping his sophomore album Hotel 1105, D2X reminded fans why he’s one of the most talented MCs out of Chicago. Bringing forth an underdog feeling and the aesthetics of a comic book superhero, The Hunger Era is unlike anything D2X has released before. It is purely Chicago on all fronts, and the epitome of what "Hunger" feels like. Additionally, D2X assembled the Avengers for this EP—pulling in Chris Patrick and fellow Chicago rapper Ausar for a pair of high-velo tracks. Executive produced by Ro Moore and Gold Haze, the two were able to elevate D2X's bars to a whole new level. If you're looking for music to make you feel like you could run through a wall like The Hulk, or give you strength to stop a moving train like Superman, look no further.
Kayo — DOMINO.
Favorite Tracks: “ORANGE,” “FOLD IT UP” (feat. SONNY), “First Order of Business”
Southside phenom Kayo kept his consistency on point in 2024 by releasing his second mixtape, DOMINO, in late October. After sharing the 10-track UNTIL HIS BURIAL in 2023, he went straight back to work. You’ll find high level raps only in this project, as Kayo sounds more confident and motivated than ever on DOMINO—essentially springing you out of bed to achieve that goal you’ve been procrastinating on. With aggressive bars, catchy hooks and real stories he intertwines within his lyrics, all we can do is sit back and watch the DOMINO effect of Kayo’s hard work. Brownie points if you go back and watch the show recap we did for the release of this project. ;)
MIKE DFG — LOVE LETTER TO THE WEST
Favorite Tracks: “West$ide Legend (W$L),” “Golden Child,” “moment of clarity.”
If we’re handing out a Rookie of the Year award for Chicago rap, it’s definitely going to Mike DFG. Mike put his foot on the gas in 2024, releasing TWO projects that could have both easily made this list. However, after releasing LINE OF FIRE last April, Mike swiftly doubled back and released our pick to click, Love Letter To The West, last Fall—a soulful ode to his hometown on the Westside of Chicago. The raw energy conveyed over the tape’s 11 tracks shows the purest form of Mike DFG; expertly capturing his own aggression, pain, passion and love. Being just 21 years old, Mike only has more to experience and endure, and should undoubtedly be on your radar moving forward.
SONNY — Til Death Do We Ball
Favorite Tracks: “BACKWOODS AND HOUSE SHOES,” “LOGS,” “PLAY YO PART”
SONNY’s discography is only getting stronger with every new drop, and Til Death Do We Ball proves to be his best body of work thus far. The project is full of high-tempo songs where SONNY’s authenticity shines through bird’s eye views of past experiences. Featuring NombreKari, Bandhunta KT, Dreamer Isioma, Senite, DrewIsABoss, and Ine’a J., it’s clear SONNY has a superstar quality to bounce off of anyone he works with seamlessly. There’s no doubt he’s had a major impact on those around him due to his ability to convey these emotions in his music—and the energy that you feel when you see him perform. Simply put, it’s next level rap.
Kiraly Payne — 4 1 7
Favorite Tracks: “Day To Day,” “Generational Curses,” “Prayed Up”
Kiraly Payne solidified himself as a staple in the Chicago underground scene with his debut album, 4 1 7, this past May. A project with immense replay value, it’s one that clearly demonstrates Kiraly’s continuous evolution as an artist in the best way possible. Detailing the trials and tribulations that come with being a rapper, Payne powers through his own personal wins and losses with a relentless confidence only he’s able to cultivate. The project’s unique and vibrant production pushes the boundaries of his sound, giving listeners a fresh first impression on 4 1 7. Don’t sleep on Kiraly Payne as he continues to build towards a full-on breakout.
Kai Crewsade — Yvette
Favorite Tracks: “Let’s Get It!” (feat. Lance Skiiwalker & femdot.), “RIP Rashad Harden,” “#baby boy!” (feat. SONNY, NombreKari & Menace4hire)
Another artist from the Westside of Chicago, Kaicrewsade is a rare breed. In September 2024, Kai released his first mixtape, Yvette, and if you haven’t heard this project, stop what you’re doing and listen as you keep reading. It is a breath of fresh air, mixing elements of rap, soul and jazz with an incredible ease and approach to his craft. Yvette has a specific sense of refined depth that few artists of his caliber are able to achieve. Among other highlights, fellow Chicago rapper frshwaters narrates a few passages on the album—giving Yvette another layer that elevates its narrative charm. From the album’s bright, live instrumentation to incredible feature choices, Yvette is a must-listen Chi-town tape for all the right reasons.
Galaxy Francis — METAL GEAR FRANCIS
Favorite Tracks: “UPSTAiRS,” “BE,” “KUWAiT”?
Galaxy Francis rollout to his latest project, METAL GEAR FRANCIS, wasn’t only unique, but provided for a cascaded experience unlike any other. Spending nearly 10 weeks releasing one song after the other, the project finally dropped in its entirety in April 2024—and it was well worth the wait. Bringing in some of Chicago’s finest like Ausar, Sir Michael Rocks, Valee and MFnMelo (to name a few), Galaxy’s otherworldly aesthetic and experimental production choices allows him and his featured acts to push their own personal limits forward. METAL GEAR FRANCIS is out of this Galaxy, and Francis is at the center of it all.
Jay Wood — Summer School
Favorite Tracks: “INEEDIT,” “PETRO”
Jay Wood spent Summer School honing his craft and passing it with flying colors. Although the short, four-track EP lasts only 10 minutes, it packs a punch despite its length and is one of the hardest Chicago Rap Projects of the year because of it. Wood has always had a way with curation (his attention to detail on every level of his artistry is head-turning), stunning listeners with yet another captivating mosaic of his life. You can tell he’s done his homework. Tracks like “PETRO” and “INEEDIT” display Jay’s lyrical chops akin to a Kendrick Lamar or a Baby Keem, delving into past (and present) hurdles he’s had to overcome. On the verge of something special and the bridge to a proper full-length project, expect Jay Wood to become one of the brightest voices brimming out of the Southside for years to come.
Ro Moore — NEON BROWN
Favorite Tracks: “Designer Pain” (feat. Ausar), “Leaves,” “OMW/What I Want”
Perfectly encapsulating a changing of the seasons, Ro Moore truly delivered on the vividly rich, NEON BROWN. This is Ro’s first full-length in a few years, but its timing couldn’t have been better. NEON BROWN conveys a kaleidoscope of emotions and melodies that will remain stuck in your head every time you listen. Its production will leave you feeling warm, cozy, and relaxed; It’s a break from the chaos of a busy day-to-day life. With notable Chicago artists such as Tri Nohbi, Ausar and Josi Green listed as featured acts, Ro was able to bring in some of the best in the city to match his vision. And it couldn’t be more colorfully cohesive.
Menace4hire — What Would Menace Do?
Favorite Tracks: “Gin No Juice,” “Merlin,” “You Can’t Hide”
While Menace4hire has been bubbling in the Chicago underground for the past couple of years, it’s hard not to take notice of his talent at first glance. Sharing a string of singles in 2023, Menace doubled back and broke out with a trio of EPs in 2024, with his most recent (and impressive) being Side Opposite North. Controlling sonic chaos is a strength for the rising rapper, who’s evidently a Menace on the mic. The 6-track EP is a conglomerate of beautifully messy music, touting a pair of perfectly-fit features from devin. and Kaicrewsade. Side Opposite North feels heavily influenced from Chicago’s Blues roots, marrying these sounds with the rapper’s incredible knack for wordplay. Menace4hire sounds like a young Earl Sweatshirt on his grind to get to the top. Male sure to stay tapped in.
Lemonxde80s — 80s World
Favorite Tracks: “Lick Back,” “Get It Done,” “Everyday!”
It’s 80s World and we’re all just living in it.
Lemonxde80s is an artist in the truest sense of the word. Following his debut album, Rumor Has It (2023), 80s’ has been working his way towards another full-length release—one that outshines his debut at every turn. His consistency proves to be one of his superpowers, releasing a trio of singles over the course of 2024, all of which ending up on his sophomore effort this past October. 80s World glistens with personality, as bouncy 808s and meticulous drum patterns leave room for its hand-picked, gorgeous samples to fully breathe and be taken in. A lot of the messaging 80s brings forth on this album is centered around motivation. You can tell there’s nothing stopping 80s from getting to where he wants to be; Listeners can take his determination and apply it to their own lives as well. No features was a good choice as well, further proving that he’s going to make it happen on his own no matter the circumstances—and you should too.
Freejay — GOOD GUYS FINISH LAST
Favorite Tracks: “THETWO,” “FOR ALL WE KNOW,” “ROSES”
The saying goes “nice guys finish last,” but what about the good guys? To Freejay, it’s all the same, and maybe it’s better. this way His June 2024 project, GOOD GUYS FINISH LAST, is a representation of a good guy coming out on top, regardless of what the album’s title says. Entirely produced by Freejay himself, the 9-track tape is a masterclass in creative direction, centered around a professional race and, to our gauge, seems like the cover art and track-list was shot at an actual racetrack. That level of detail adds to the end result, as Jay devises clever melodies to give a great blend of hip hop, R&B and electronic over the course of the record. The creative direction, fused with the captivating production (and his smooth flows) creates a seamless work of art. Don’t speed by it either, let this one sink in.
Cassius Tae — Moments In Desire
Favorite Tracks: “THE SEARCH,” “GOD IS CRYING,” “IF & WHEN”
Cassius Tae took his time crafting his newest album Moments In Desire—making sure it was a moment worth waiting for. Released in November, this project showcases an effortless balance between the worlds of rap and R&B, with a level of detail tailor-made to tell a beautiful story. Covering the topics of Cassius’ aspirations, downfalls and motivations, there’s a bit of everything for everyone on this project. The 15 tracks, consisting of some incredible interludes, up-tempo highs and relaxing lows, lead you through specific moments in time that Cassius has personally experienced. Moments In Desire was an impressive way to end the year for Tae, and we won’t be surprised when continues this momentum moving forward.
Gold Haze — Realist Truth
Favorite Tracks: “Tears Fly,” “Realist Truth,” “Purpose”
If you’re somehow unfamiliar with 4-time Platinum producer Gold Haze, Realist Truth is a great start to get hip. This EP made our list because of the true-to-life lyrics and soulful production found throughout. Gold Haze demonstrates that he is an all-around artist here by both singing and producing everything across the EP. The elegant, punchy, soulful beats that Haze is able to cook up time and time again are the perfect combo for the motivational and honest lyrics that he writes about. This EP, coming off of his 2023 album YOUR PAIN IS MINE, was a refreshing and enjoyable follow up and sure to be in our rotation all throughout 2025.
Z Money — Chiraq Mogul 2
Favorite Tracks: “Still Spend It” (feat. Key Glock), “What Happen” (feat. Valee), “You Can’t F*ck With Me”
Z Money is no stranger to these lists when it comes to Chicago rap. He’s back this time after releasing Chiraq Mogul 2—the sequel to his 2018 project Chiraq Mogul. Pulling in artists from the first CM project like Key Glock, Valee, 03 Greedo, and adding Jeremih, Z Money was able to capture that same energy he had in his 2018 project and bring a whole new layer to it in ‘24. His ability to experiment with new flows and different types of production continues to showcase his versatility on a variety of deep-cut hits. Its heavy-hitting production mixed with the confident, in-your-face charisma that Z Money always brings to the table makes this a potent project made for the daily grind.
theMind — Dancing While Crying In The Middle of Nowhere
Favorite Tracks: “MAD HONEY,” “OH DEER (DAMN, LOVE REALLY),” “CINDY’S SHOE”
Dancing While Crying In The Middle of Nowhere was one of our favorite projects outside of hip-hop in 2024—so it had to make our list. If you’re a fan of R&B, alternative or jazz, you can hear all three influences in this project through both theMind’s scintillating production and ghostly vocals. It was orchestrated beautifully. It feels cinematic, carrying the listener from fun, enthusiastic tracks to more relaxed and spirited songs. “OH DEER” is a personal favorite because theMind is able to tug at your emotions in a way no one else can. Dancing While Crying In The Middle of Nowhere is a perfect way to describe this project, and you can really feel that duality of vibrancy and sadness as you listen.
Khaliyah X — What’s My Name?
Favorite Tracks: “PSA”, “TRANSITIONS”, “INTRO/WHAT’S MY NAME”
You better know her name after this! Khaliyah X released her debut mixtape What’s My Name? in September 2024 and we haven’t stopped listening since. The 9-track project is a graceful blend of genres, mixing elements of hip-hop and R&B with jazz and soul throughout. Plastered with profound lyrics that most listeners will find truth in, she speaks on topics of love, introspection and self-motivation. It seems that with this project, Khaliyah was able to find out who she was and exactly what she’s capable of. We’re still clinging on to her every word.
YourStepdad — YourStepdad
Favorite Tracks: “PRENUP,” “DGAF,” “AVOIDISM”
YourStepdad is one of the most experimental and forward-thinking rappers in Chicago right now. Between his intricate ear for beats and an impressive 3-project run in 2024, his self-titled YourStepdad certainly raised expectations in the city. He’s cut from a different cloth, as Stepdad stylistically teeters between elements of Chicago drill and Detroit style beats with a sense of flair and internet-era humor only niche listeners would understand. What’s most interesting is how YourStepdad is able to flip iconic songs and make them into his own—sampling Kendrick Lamar’s “Poe Mans Dreams,” Jay-Z’s “Dead Presidents” and Tyler, The Creator’s “WHAT A DAY,” among others. The creativity YourStepdad is able to conjure in his music allows him to stand out amongst the crowd—delivering a uniquely iconic vibe that’s all his own.
KAMI — Superstarr, Vol. 2 (Love Me or Not)
Favorite Tracks: “Inside the Section,” “Go Gentle,” “Iconic”
Love him or not, KAMI is going to continue to put out great music. Superstarrr, Vol. 2 (Love Me or Not), released in January 2024 and set the tone for the entire year. This project has a bit of everything from KAMI, as the SAVEMONEY artist is a seasoned veteran in the Chicago rap scene, and has been for some time now. His melodies and lyrical delivery are extremely versatile, bleeding into a unbridled energy and flow that matches the production perfectly—giving listeners music that relates to a multitude of emotions. This is why he’s a “SUPERSTARR” in every way.
She’s Face — PARAGON
Favorite Tracks: “Decisions,” “HOME,” “Journal Entry 4”
PARAGON is the second EP from She’s Face that was released last Valentine’s Day, and we felt the love all year long. Her voice carries over each elegantly-produced beat throughout the project. She covers the topics of personal relationships and family, making the tracks vastly relatable for those who listen. Face has said on record that the concept of this EP was built around expressing that everyone is perfect, and the music directly speaks to that when you hear the lyrics in each of the songs. PARAGON stands as more than just an EP—it’s a flawless reflection of She’s Face’s artistry and a testament to the perfection she sees in every one of us.
Sahbabii — SAAHEEM
Favorite Tracks: “Viking,” “Mirror Picz,” “On Film,” “Wakiki”
There’s a lot to be said when reflecting on SahBabii’s career up until this point. The Chicago phenom (a pupil of Atlanta’s vintage trap wave i.e. Future, Thug, Rich Homie Quan) has had skin in the game for over a decade; Don’t forget that every rapper from Wiz Khalifa and Thugger to Drake and Lil Wayne wanted to be on the remix of his 2017 hit “Pull Up with a Stick.” However, SAAHEEM seemingly sparked something long-lasting, being embraced by fans more so than in any of his previous eras or coinciding projects. Undoubtedly, SahBabii deserves more credit; it’s well overdue for Squid. “Purple trackhawk, yellow Brembos, I’m catching them plays like a Viking” is stuck in our heads until further notice.
Star Bandz — ESTRELLA
Favorite Tracks: “Uh-Huh,” “Yea Yea,” “4 Deep”
Star Bandz’s name is all you need to know to get a glimpse at who she is as an artist. One of the freshest faces out the Chi, the 16-year-old rapper became a star as soon as she hit the scene, and her debut mixtape, ESTRELLA (or “star” in Spanish), is a testament to her promising talent. Recruiting Veeze, Luh Tyler, Sugarhill Ddot and fellow Chicago native BabyChiefDoIt, Star Bandz speeds ahead with waves of adrenaline over the 13-tracks opus, defining the next wave of Chi-drill in the process. Between playfully menacing bars and an indelible superstar energy, Star Bandz makes sparks fly every time she grips the mic.
RecoeChi — ACT 1: The Elixir of GOD
Favorite Tracks: “The Sleeve”
RecoeChi has recently come on the Chicago rap scene and has made quite the first impression. While only a two-pack, ACT 1: The Elixir of GODwas worth adding to this list because of the level of detail and care he put into it. It seems as though it’s a prelude to a larger project down the line, but Recoe is treating it as if it’s the main piece. The production on these two tracks are reminiscent of Westside Gunn, but with a fresh Chicagoan twist. Recoe, being only 22, already has a great sound and track presence, and while it’s still early, we’re here to tell you to keep an eye on RecoeChi. He’s got our co-sign moving forward.
OG Stevo — Sincerely, Stevon
Favorite Tracks: “Hustle N Flow,” “Mud On My Cleats,” “Letter 2 Myself”
OG Stevo is an OG for a reason. The “Hood Romeo” himself has been an integral part of Chicago’s underground for years now, but his latest album Sincerely, Stevon proves to be a poignant portrait of the man behind the moniker. Lacing love-scorn melodies over trap-influenced beats, Stevo pens a true depiction of himself over the course of the 14-track album. A descdenet of Chicago’s anthemic street hits, Stevo strikes a chord speaking on his struggles with addiction (“Glock Did”), growing up in the embattled streets of the Chi and moving forward for the better. “Letter 2 Myself” is reminiscent of a melodic Lil Durk with dashes of Polo G, wearing his heart on his sleeve through emotionally-scarred croons and street-laced bars. OG Stevo is on track to become Chicago’s next mainstream star, and Sincerely, Stevon is the hard look-in-the-mirror needed to lift his sound to greater heights.
VonOff1700 — #TurntUpNotBurntUp
Favorite Tracks: “TG Run It,” “Dead N***s (feat. Polo G & G Herbo),” “Still Thuggin” (feat. Lil Baby)
Much like the aforementioned Star Bandz and BabyChiefDoIt, VonOff1700 is at the forefront of Chicago drill’s evolution. Much like how Lil Durk, King Von and G Herbo rose to the top of the game during the city’s peak drill era, the Chicago native has fed—and will continue to feed—the streets with automatic hits that are reminiscent of that time. His latest album, #TurntUpNotBurntUp, is an extension of his off-the-wall personality-–Nike Pro shiesty and all. Over the course of 18 tracks and features from Herbo, Polo G, Lil Baby, Hunxho and even a posthumous appearance from the late King Von, the album showcases the all-encompassing respect VonOff has garnered amongst the city’s longtime stars. Ultimately, VonOff has reinvogirated the city’s drill roots with more swagger than ever before. Carrying the torch in one hand and leading a resurgence in the other, he’s made drill less grim and more gleeful. Chief Keef, Herbo and Durk brought the genre to one generation, and VonOff is evidently bringing it to another.
Be sure to check out our full playlist of our favorite songs from this list!
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