Top 10 Ohio Rappers On the Radar 2024 - from Cleveland to Dayton

Ohio has a rich musical heritage, especially in hip-hop. This genre has blossomed in the Buckeye State, giving rise to a diverse array of talent that continues to gain traction both locally and nationally. In 2024, a fresh wave of rappers is stepping into the spotlight, bringing their unique sounds and perspectives to a vibrant musical tapestry. Join us as we spotlight ten under-the-radar rappers who are making a significant impact this year, from the streets of Cleveland to the heart of Dayton.

Kid Cudi (Cleveland)

Born Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi, Kid Cudi stands out as a trailblazer in hip-hop. Since his rise in the mid-2000s, he's been recognized for blending hip-hop, rock, and electronic music, all while tackling themes like mental health and personal struggle. This combination resonates deeply with fans.

Kid Cudi's groundbreaking achievement of being the first rapper from the 2000s to earn two diamond records—selling over 10 million copies each—has etched his name in music history. His influence is massive, inspiring a new generation of artists like Juice WRLD, who cite him as a significant influence.

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony (Cleveland)

The iconic cover of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony's album reflecting their unique sound.

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony revolutionized hip-hop with their harmonic melodies and fast-paced delivery. Originating from Cleveland's St. Clair Superior neighborhood, they gained acclaim in the 1990s and beyond.

With three Grammy nominations and one win, their groundbreaking style continues to inspire countless artists. Their album "E. 1999 Eternal," which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, has sold over 4 million copies, showcasing their lasting impact.

Machine Gun Kelly (Cleveland)

Machine Gun Kelly, known as MGK, has successfully transitioned from rap to rock, maintaining strong ties to Ohio. His captivating stage presence and rapid-fire lyrical flow gained him initial fame, while his ability to adapt has lightened his path across music genres.

MGK often features elements of his Ohio upbringing in his lyrics, making his connection palpable. His recent album "Tickets to My Downfall" debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, solidifying his status within the industry.

Chip Tha Ripper (Cleveland)

Also known as King Chip, Chip Tha Ripper is a Cleveland legend, frequently collaborating with Kid Cudi. His lyrical style combines storytelling with social issues, rooted in his life experiences.

Chip's work has garnered him a dedicated following and respect in the wider hip-hop culture. His 2021 album "The King’s Odyssey" received praise for its rich storytelling and complex beats, making him an artist to watch closely this year.

David Biga (Dayton)

The perspective of Dayton, Ohio, where emerging talents like David Biga developed new rap outlets for young Emcees.

Rising from Dayton, David Biga is not only an accomplished artist but also the founder of Novelist Music Group. Biga raises the bar for hiphop in Dayton with his street appeal and wisdom offered as insight through his lyrical depth. You can feel David Biga and his sound has a unique commercial appeal reminiscent of Cudi and Chance. Biga is actively fostering local talent and shaping the music scene once he made name for himself and his label after moving to Chicago, he opened a second location in Downtown Dayton to plug the two cities.

His recent collaboration with Westside Boogie and his latesr album "Lemonade Stand" has showcased his growth and proves rappers at the top have approved of David Biga and his contributions. With a mission to uplift other artists, Biga is positioned as a key player in Ohio’s music narrative for many years to come.

Yalee (Dayton)

Yalee is making waves in the Dayton hip-hop scene with his unique blend of R&B and rap. Growing up in the area, he brings a distinct sound that highlights his vocal skill and lyrical sophistication.

His hit single "Pressure" received over 1 million streams on Spotify, showcasing his ability to attract a wide audience. As Yalee continues to innovate, he’s a name to keep an eye on in 2024.

Stalley (Massillon)

Stalley, from Massillon, earned recognition with his debut album "Ohio," released under Maybach Music Group. His authentic blue-collar rap style offers a Midwestern perspective that stands out in the hip-hop landscape.

Stalley’s storytelling music often reflects the highs and lows of daily life, connecting deeply with listeners. He has collaborated with artists like Rick Ross and Curren$y, further solidifying his presence in the genre.

Trippie Redd (Canton)

Born Michael Lamar White IV, Trippie Redd has quickly solidified his status as a chart-topping artist. His ability to intertwine genres like hip-hop, rock, and R&B resonates with a diverse audience, leading to impressive streaming numbers.

With over 5 billion streams across platforms and multiple platinum singles, Trippie's innovative approach continues to captivate. His relentless creativity places him at the forefront of Ohio's emerging talents.

Cal Scruby (Cincinnati)

Cal Scruby entered the music scene while attending Ohio State University and has since garnered attention with his clever lyrics. After relocating to Los Angeles, he collaborated with major artists, broadening his influence.

His songs balance humor and introspection, appealing to a range of listeners. As Cal continues to evolve, he remains a significant figure within Ohio's hip-hop culture this year.

Ampichino (Akron)

From Akron, Ampichino is a well-regarded name in Ohio’s underground rap scene. His gritty, real-life lyrics draw listeners in, making his storytelling relatable and impactful.

Ampichino's commitment to authenticity has earned him a dedicated fanbase that appreciates his work. His recent album "Block Life" received acclaim for its raw honesty, affirming his essential role in keeping Ohio's hip-hop culture vibrant.

Honorable Mentions

While the top ten artists shine bright, several other talented rappers from Ohio deserve recognition.

• Carter K. Carter (Dayton): Known for his clever lyrics and introspective themes, he's been gaining a following.

• Mekka Don (Columbus): His high-energy performances paired with catchy hooks are winning him fans across the state.

• Jasiah (Dayton): Effortlessly blending genres, Jasiah's unique style is appealing to a wide audience.

• Hollywood Sav (Cleveland) an artist who is a true hip hop head and is focused on not only bringing change. Associated with Elevated Livin'

• Doobie (Columbus): With a distinctive sound, Doobie's fanbase is steadily growing, showcasing his talent.

  
  

These artists may not yet have mainstream recognition, but they embody the spirit of Ohio's rap scene and are ones to watch closely this year.

The Ohio Hip-Hop Landscape

Ohio offers a vibrant and diverse hip-hop scene that captivates audiences. The ten artists highlighted here are making substantial contributions to the genre, each with a distinct voice and vision. The creative experiments of Kid Cudi and Trippie Redd, along with the lyrical depth found in Stalley and Chip Tha Ripper's music, contribute to a landscape rich with potential.

As these artists continue to grow, hip-hop enthusiasts should stay tuned to Ohio. The Buckeye State is positioned to remain a hotbed for innovative music and under-the-radar gems for years to come.

Top 10 Rappers - Who's next?

So, whether you're a hip-hop fan or looking for fresh sounds, don’t miss out on Ohio's hidden Top 10 Rappers in 2025. You might just discover your next favorite artist among these gems !