The golden age of Houston rap (Geto Boys, Swishahouse, Screwed Up Click) may be a distant memory, despite some continuing to rep the city (Z-Ro, Paul Wall, Devin the Dude etc), yet there is a new generation (not talking about Travis Scott) that is rising to carry the torch and hold down ‘Screwston’ as a hub of quality rap. Luckily, 160 miles West from H-Town, is the largest music festival in the world, so it’s only right that SXSW gets a glimpse of the next class of powerhouse rappers emerging from the ‘City of Syrup’. Here are five up-and-comer acts that are looking to impress at SXSW 2019.
Megan Thee Stallion
The newly crowned queen of Houston rap, Megan Thee Stallion aka Tina Snow, has incisive lyrics that are as clever as they are provocative. Young, ambitious and undeniably talented, Megan is giving Austin once last glance before she takes over the world.
Tim Woods
Poet, MC, flower-child, or hippy, Tim Woods has gone by a multitude of names. That alone should speak volumes about his versatility and creativity.
Doughbeezy
Doughbeezy a.k.a The South East Beast has been exciting crowds and gaining fans since high school where he got his start doing impromptu concerts at the lunch table. Since recording his first song in 2003 Doughbeezy has continued to progress as a recording artist, live performer, and a successful brand.
Rizzoo Rizzoo
When it comes the infrastructure of the modern Houston sound, The Sauce Factory has played a pivotal part into the way the rest of the nation looks at Texas’ emerging soundscape. One of the X Factors in the collective that has been gaining steam is Rizzoo Rizzoo.
Doeman
Born and raised in Southeast Houston, Doeman’s flows are largely about his experiences as a Mexican-American man. It is no surprise, then, that his lyrics focus less on typical hip-hop subjects such as women and material possessions, and focus more on social statements and current events.