REGIONZ: From The 6 With Love

The 2010s saw the rise of an unexpected newcomer to the music game. First, Drake took over the radio with his relatable hip hop hits, and now Canada is producing a new superstar it seems like every week. The future looks bright for the 6, and all eyes should definitely be on this region to see what star hits the charts next.

What makes Canada unique?

The newcomer status of Canada works to the country’s advantage because there is constantly something new to be discovered. Drake put Toronto on the map, but it only makes us wonder what Vancouver, Ontario, Calgary, British Columbia, and the other Canadian provinces have to offer. With the introduction of every new artist, Canada gains more traction in the music industry. Everyone loves to see what the new kid on the block has in store. Well, this newcomer is definitely keeping everyone on their toes.

Canada is known as being one of the nicest countries in the world, and it comes across in the music. Drake earned the reputation of being the “soft” rapper because his projects are full of emotions that everyone feels but no one discusses, especially not in hip hop. However, he is not alone in this label as the soft or the vulnerable rapper. Sean Leon’s (Toronto) “Matthew In The Middle” tells the story of the overwhelming balance between rising in economic status and staying true to your roots. He pushes his pride to the side and speaks of regrets, uncertainty, and fear. Lou Phelps (Quebec) lays down some oh so romantic bars and charms a love interest on his stand-out track “Come Inside.” With this reputation building, Canada can completely dominate a niche category in hip hop that many rappers have trouble fitting into without sounding awkward or overexaggerated.

Ever heard the phrase “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?” Canadian artists took this phrase and ran with it. Canada has the advantage of picking up tips and tricks from established artists or in this case, old dogs. Artists coming out of the northern region are playing on their influences and the feeling of nostalgia and simply adding a new flavor. Listeners feel like they’ve heard the music before while also being blown away by the unique characteristics of the music whether it’s vocal inflections, production notes, or adventurous lyric choices. Toronto rising star Sydanie plays with futuristic sounds like early Missy Elliott, rap duo Snotty Nose Rez Kids are representing the Indigenous population in British Columbia inspired by artists like Public Enemy and Run The Jewelz, and Vancouver’s own Kimmortal makes music as emotionally pungent as Lauryn Hill. You can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but you can definitely train a new dog to be better than the last.

Listen to the playlist below featuring Canadian artists established and on the rise. Comment your thoughts and let everyone know which artist you’ll keep your eye on.