Hip Hop Artists Who Should Be on Your Radar in 2022

In 2021, several emerging artists broke through to stardom in hip hop and R&B. Pooh Shiesty, Yung Bleu, Morray, Blxst, and more exceeded all expectations and saw mainstream success. This year, a new group of talented artists are ready to take center stage. When you hit the Gaslamp nightclubs, you’re likely to hear some drops from these hip hop artists you should watch in 2022.

ENNY

Since she gave voice to the everyday lives of black women with 2020’s “Peng Black Girls,” this rapper has been rising in the UK hip hop scene. Forging her own lyrical and sonic path, ENNY blends jazz-infused relaxed influences with dexterous flows reminiscent of old-school grime. Even though her career is just getting started, she’s already drawn critical acclaim from far and wide.

Shenseea

This versatile Jamaican polymath’s star rose after she was showcased on Kanye West’s Grammy-nominated Donda. She not only went toe-to-toe with Ye and Rooga on “Ok Ok pt 2,” but she also took center stage with her vocal power on “Pure Souls.” Shenseea is getting ready to drop her much-anticipated debut album, which follows her collaboration with Megan Thee Stallion on the sweet single “Lick.”

Babyface Ray

A popular figure in his hometown of Detroit, Babyface Ray is hitting the national stage alongside other next-gen Motor City rappers, such as Tee Grizzley and 42 Dugg. Highlighted in a series of solo mixtapes that were well received, Babyface’s clever and insightful lyrics and easy, conversational flow brought him mainstream attention in 2021 on the EP Unf*ckwitable. Guests included Moneybagg Yo, and a deluxe edition followed that featured a remix of Babyface’s track “Paperwork Party” with Jack Harlow from 2020. 

Nardo Wick

This Jacksonville native released his provocative hit “Who Want Smoke?” in January 2021, although the incendiary track didn’t appear on the mainstream radar until October, when the official remix got rap reinforcements from the gritty street tales of G Herbo, Lil Durk, and 21 Savage. That star power got national attention, and “Who Want Smoke?” rose to the top 20 on the Hot 100 and earned Nardo a platinum single.

EST Gee

With a laid-back but unrelenting lyrical style, EST Gee documents everyday life in Louisville with authenticity, incorporating contemporary hip hop variants like trap. He has drawn the attention of hard-hitting contemporaries and major labels since he appeared on the scene in 2017, and he has collaborated with artists such as Young Thug, Lil Dirk, Jack Harlow, and Future.

If you’re looking for a nightclub that brings a different culture to the downtown San Diego club scene, head to Onyx Room. With multiple rooms and different genres, we’re sure to please even the most discerning San Diego clubgoer. Whether you’re looking for the best Top 40, urban Latin, or hip hop clubs in San Diego, we have something to please everyone’s taste. Come see for yourself what Onyx has to offer. To join the guest list for the night of your choosing or get VIP bottle service and experience why Onyx Nightclub is the best San Diego nightclub, call us at 619-876-8044.