Top Talent To Follow in 2022

Influencers have the power to inspire, entertain, and empower. Whether through music, movies, or motivational engagement, it’s social media that allows people to connect with millions worldwide. In collaboration with Verified Hustler Group, entertainment executives, and the most powerful entrepreneurs in the game, below is a list of must-follow talents in 2022 that deserve the spotlight.

2J – has a new single out the hit position 89 on the iTune charts call Show n Tell. Putting fame aside, 2J brand represents that everyone has that point where they’re just anticipating on being the best version of themself, 2J music is the outward expression of his freedom and vision. It’s the best way for him to be his best self. | IG: @2JTheRichest

Alexis Branch – Alexis Branch, affectionately known as “Lex” is the newest entertainer to hit the scene, but she is FAR from new to the industry. She is truly a “Jack of all Trades”. Originally known as an R&B Singer from the group “BLISS”, her many talents include: dancer, songwriter, actress, content currator/animated character Litty Lex and TV Host. | IG: @IamAlexisBranch

ATX Cypher – Atx Cypher & Nez Tha Villain has been making some real noise in Austin, TX. With such a unique combination of personalities with the lyricism it’s not something you have seen and heard 1 million times. Off his ATX collaboration mixtape “Codeine Metaverse” comes “Toxins”, a different play on your typical 420 type track. Atx Cypher also has a podcast dropping next week called You Gon Pass That? as he prepares for Barz, Jarz, & Cigarz Music Festival. This festival is taking place June 11th in Webberville, TX | IG: @ATX_Cypher

BlackDove – BlackDove returns with a new hit single titled “YOGA”, which is Afrobeat/hip hop and gives a very sensual vibe catered to the ladies. The record stands out because of the intellectual way BlackDove describes how he enjoys pleasing and receiving pleasure intimately from a beautiful woman. | IG: @BlackDoveBrand

Bonni3 – Bonni3 is a rising artist from Virginia. She takes pride in being an entrepreneur as well as a music creator. Make sure you get familiar with this rising star now. | IG: @IamBonni3

Briana Piedra – Briana Piedra is a budding superstar that I could see topping the Pop charts very soon. Growing up in Portland, Oregon she began to find her love for music at a young age. Now she is one of the most popular artists repping the Portland music scene. Her newer single titled “CRAVE” has been gaining national attention, and is one of the best songs I’ve heard so far in 2022. | IG: @Brianapiedra

Butta The Preacher – Indiana recording artist Butta The Preacher continues to rise heavy in the music industry. His recent 5 track Ep “God Brothers” with Emanuel Da Prophet and Boone has gained momentum in the gospel and secular genre. Butta The Preacher said his music is sermons on beats. The “God Brothers” Ep gets the audience’s attention instantly as they are drawn into the unique sound and witty punchlines on every song. | IG: @ButtaThePreacher

CasinoATX – CasinoATX’s sole mission for the past two years has been to leave a stamp on the worldwide Hip-Hop scene, and let them know Austin TX is in the building. The self proclaimed Partyville Mayor has been on a tear through the underground music scene. He is expanding his reach across the country by turning himself into an all around brand. Casino has shown his abilities to spit bars with the best of them in his scene stealing feature on Grind Mode Cypher’s SXSW edition. Catch CasinoATX this summer as he tours the southwest in preparation for his new single Moonlight from his upcoming album The Street Nerd. | IG: @CasinoATX

Crash Kuda – A young super star in the making, Crash Kuda is an easy pick for this list. He is an up and coming artist from Portland, who has begun to develop his own sound/genre of music. With a deep interest in art, and a deep desire to discover the unknown, Crash Kuda will shake up the industry with his debut album this summer. | IG: @crashkuda

Danny Paul – Danny Paul is a first generation Haitian American born in Boston but has moved many times in his life. Finding his passion for music at a young age he has consistently been building his craft and working on his music. His new single “ZaZa” has been making waves  across the internet, establishing Danny Paul as a major artist. His consistency sets him apart from others, and you will want to keep an eye on him for the rest of 2022! | IG:@mrdannypaul

DJ Image – DJ Image is an Oklahoma City based DJ who is exploring his creativity/ passion and manifesting dreams into reality. He has many years of experience as a DJ and has also become a prominent recording engineer/all around artist. | IG: @dj.imageokc

Double-eff – Double-eff is making a huge name for himself in 2022. Topping Shazam charts and seeing a lot of radio traction, his new single with Gigahurtz titled “Only Fans” is on track to be one of the most influential tracks of the year. Born and raised in CA he’s showing people that anything is possible. Go checkout Double-eff you won’t be disappointed. | IG: @double.effer

Emac Money – Emac Money was born in Brooklyn, NY. He relocated as a child to North Miami Beach, FL where his music  journey would begin. Hailing from a poverty stricken family they would land in Highlands County, FL. It is here he would find his first successes in the rap game becoming the most well known artist in the region. In 2014 inking a deal with universal music group, where he would record his first nationally acclaimed record “Booty Talk” with Young Money artist Tyga. The rise to the top would be short lived as Emac was plagued with legal trouble and would be incarcerated in 2016. Finally free Emac would form a new label LiT4EVR Music Cartel, come with a fresh unique style and image, birthing the persona “Big LiT” the “LiTGoD” and recreate the buzz from 2014. With a very unique sound that blends new age trap music with the clever lyrics and metaphors of the golden age 90’s hip hop he is catching fire and growing more and more by the day. | IG: @emacmoney

Fourgiato – Fourgiato is a young prodigy who has been making tons of new music so far in 2022. With his last release being “Cold Heart ft. Niro Gotti last year, fans have been on the lookout for new music. It’s safe to say Fourgiato will be coming in hot this summer with his best music yet. With his unique sound that he has been developing, and constant support from his active fan base, I see great things for this young artist in coming months. | IG: @fourgiato

Frqnzy & Hailstackz – Frqnzy & Hailstackz are the duo of the decade! The Virginia natives release a hot new single titled “4 The World”. Ever wonder what a Scorpio and Sagittarius sound like sonically together? So much diversity. So much passion and the two wear their hearts on their sleeves proudly. The two are CEOs of their indie major label Good Karma Music Group. Frqnzy stands for “you and I” which represents the painful stories of foster care, losing parents young, to his mom being murdered and losing his kids. He represents perseverance and hip-hop, what r&b and love music used to sound like. Hailstacks is the voice of the lgbt community. His music represents his life experiences from being beaten by police to being invisible by family during transformation, a true metamorphoses story. The talented artist rises against all odds and speaks his testimony. | IG: @OfficialFrqnzy @OfficialHailstackz

G Flow Music – A hidden gem in production, G Flow Music is a music producer and engineer standing in the spotlight with an impressive catalog. Recognized on BET, Starz, Fox, OWN TV, UFC, he isn’t a stranger to International media platforms. His studio has welcomed stars like Ray J, Lil Zane, Cali Swag, New Boyz, FatBoy SSE, Tohi, Eyad Tannos, and other renowned talents. Current projects include Hulu’s Mike Tyson release, and 50 Cent’s Raising Kanan (Season 2) and his very one drum kit. | IG: @gflowmusic

Gabriel Morris – Gabriel Morris is someone you either already know about, or will soon become aware of! He is a leader in marketing and online business development. Raised in Portland, Oregon he moved to L.A in July of this year, and since has developed a major brand around his talents. A successful businessman, marketing guru, and all around influencer Gabriel Morris is someone you’ll want to follow in 2022! | IG: @g_mor_branding

Geo Galileo – Geovanni, Better known as Geo Galileo is an underground recording artist from upstate New York. 2016 was the year it started it all. Since then he has collaborated with many celebrities and is making a name for himself. Check out “Run” now! IG: @GeoGalileo_

Giles – Few doubt the talents of Alvin Giles. He is an accomplished producer, audio engineer, arranger, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter. After a ten-year hiatus, and under a new moniker; Giles, formally known as Vthov, makes his return as a musical artist. Blending genres like a pro, Giles fuses hip hop, r&b, and soul with a myriad of intriguing elements from other genres. This summer, Giles will release “Grinders and Hustlers”, a hood anthem dedicated to everyone who helps keep society running in times of crisis. | IG: @OfficialGilesMusic

Harmini – This year is one of great influence and achievements for the Texas-based Christian artist. With surprises on the way, Harmini is currently in the spotlight in his category. He has gained his fame from his master singing and rapping skills, acting, and impact in the entertainment industry. | IG: @harmini731

Haze OPC – Haze OPC is a groundbreaking, trendsetting artist from North Carolina. He’s been making big moves while captivating a sound to garner the masses with uniqueness and a style of his own. He’s been working with heavyweights, trailblazing a path that others will soon be sure to follow. With the release of multiple projectsInternational Haze has built up quite a following by gravitating people to his stories, flows, and messages. The talented artist is blessed and fortunate enough to possess more than what it takes to get to the top. Check out his new project “My God Myself & I In God I Trust” now! | IG: @Mr_Paper_Chaser_opc

HeavO – Heavo is a fiery female rapper from the Golden Triangle, the same area that birthed Pimp C and Bun B of UGK. Aside from being a beautiful young songsmith, she is a lyrical heavy hitter and talented songwriter who is set to take a top spot among females in the industry. Check out her new hit single “Make It Bounce” featuring Brithaney Renaee. | IG: @heavO_badd

Jaywin – Jaywin recently released The Missing Peace 4. TMP4 is latest installment to his annual R&B’ish Rap series The Missing Peace, which he releases every Valentine’s day. Once TMP4 dropped it charted on iTunes, peaking at #21 on the “R&B and Soul” Chart and #194 on the “All Genres Chart”. Jaywin’s no stranger to charting success. Fallin’ the recent collaboration with his brother, Rohan da Great premiered at #1 on the iTunes Reggae Chart. Jaywin plans to release a video for Blessing to capitalize off the success of the project. | IG: @MrJayWin

JJ Lafont – JJ Lafont is an up and coming artist who has been gaining a lot of traction for his new song “Slide for me”. He is not new to music, finding his passion In Junior High he has since been working on his sound. In high school he met his best friend and musical partner S.I.G, and credits him with a lot of his growth as an artist. If you are looking for a hot new artist to add to your playlist, JJ Lafont is someone you need to hear! | IG: @JJ_lafont

JTLR – What started as a “work for hire” experience for Lyric Richardson & MC Jonny T (JTLR) has grown into a full-blown movement and initiative that celebrates women of size and those who love them the most. Initially intended to be an original song for a group of online plus-size models, it did not take long for additional concepts to materialize into a commercial release of The Thickies. “The song functions as the soundtrack for the Team Thickies line of apparel and merchandise. The Thickies is a sequel to last year’s song Chubby Girl Swag. We’ve got something for the fellas with dad bods coming soon.” -MC Jonny T

Fatimah Mirbaha is the President/CEO of Team Thickies. She states Team Thickies stands for the empowerment of the women who are owning their strengths and the people that support them. We want to celebrate the contribution and beauty of plus-size bodies. Team Thickies is a female-forward brand intended for plus-size women & individuals who support their causes. We are inclusive of all adults regardless of culture or gender. | IG: @MCJonnyT @JTLRMusic

Kemini – Rising Boston, MA artist Kemini blesses the hip hop world with two albums “Misfits and Rejects” and “Vendetta”. He’s creating new genres in hip hop and rocking a lot of crazy styles and fashion. He has his own unique sound compared to dark rebellious music. What’s next for Kemini is live shows, bigger branding and radio play. He’s the ounder of the MINIMafia movement. Look out for his new album “Black Jacker” dropping in July. | IG: @Keminimafia

Kinggkong Records – Kinggkong Records is an independent label that’s making noise in South Florida, it’s owned by CEO Peter Coissy. He is from North Miami and is creating a legacy for his city. Miami has tons of artists that haven’t been heard and he’s the one that will bring light to the city. He has a passion to help others and is motivated by music, he’s also an executive producer and a visionary. Kinggkong records is the future of our industry. | IG: @KinggKong_Records

Lee Charm – Singer and songwriter Lee Charm releases his new single “Alone” on Sony Orchard! This Hip-Hop/R&B infused song is packed with a smooth bass, catchy lyrics and a hot and sexy soulful tone that anyone can vibe to. Written from a personal place and mixture of experiences, this relatable song does not disappoint. | IG: @leecharmsings

LJ Smooth – Miami, FL is known as one of the epicenters for Hot Urban Latin vibes and Caribbean feels, an environment in which, songwriter and artist LJ Smooth, has assimilated to and thrived. But being of a Virgin Islands native, “Smooth” did not need to assimilate to much as he brought his own roots and flavor to the Miami music culture. Carnival plays a big roles in the type of music he writes and sings; which is further influenced by a combination of Pop, R&B, Dancehall and Afro beats. This is highlighted in his newest single “Let Me Know”. Fans note the track is really infectious and that the melody is super good; however critics have noted the instrumentals and backing track are on another level. | IG: @lj_smoothmusic

Lucious Hicks – Lucious Hicks is a gamer, streamer, photographer, and internet enjoyer. He plays games like Smite, Apex Legends, EFT and a variety of others with the fam on twitch. As a lifetime gamer hours in front of the screen come natural so why not find people to share it with? that’s when he began streaming on twitch, simply for that open space. Range is abundant on Lucious’ channel one day can be gameplay and the next can be movies maybe even a photo editing session, regardless of the activity Lucious’ goal is to be active. | IG: @lucioushicks

Marty From The Well – Marty From The Well is an artist you want to watch. He is becoming known around the world for his catchy melodic approach to his music. Marty is an artist and performer by nature, he began working on his musical craft at the age of 14, it seemed obvious to anyone who knows him that a career in music was inevitable. With the release of his 5 song EP “Change” he is gaining international recognition for his talent. | IG: @Martyfromthewell

Matty Astro – Matty Astro is a singer/ songwriter from the Pacific Northwest who has been silently developing his talents for the last couple of years. With a wide variety of musical inspiration and an experimental sound he has begun to make some of the best music I’ve heard so far this year. Constantly developing himself as an artist and never becoming complacent with his skills, I could see Matty Astro doing huge things in years to come. | IG: @mattyastro

Mik – Merging genres and cultures, the Albanian-American artist is recognized for his unique background, and how he incorporates it into his music. In the spotlight on an international level, his singles have accumulated millions of views. This year, Mik reveals his greatest hits yet, and introduces audiences to a side of the rap artist we have yet to meet. It’s the year of upgrades, and it’s time for listeners to upgrade their playlists by staying connected to the rising talent. | IG: @mik_hbf

Mj Gill – Artist Mj Gill is on a fast track for fame! Gill is set to be a breakout star in 2022! With having already amassed over 1.5m streams, he’s shown popularity as an independent artist to watch and respect. With hits such as Back on me & Passion, Gill has shown a knack for catchy melodic harmonies and using his unique voice to perfection. With a style that is all his own, Gill will be a force. His new project Dark Sound promises to be a classic! |IG: @mjgillofficial

NJ Gift – NJ Gift hails from Newark, NJ. A top lyricist, wordsmith, with over a decade in the business, he personifies east coast flava.He has honed his skills to become a battle hardened emcee. He plans to release a new single called “Ain’t Striking Out, featuring Chevy Porter, mix” which will hit airwaves this spring, with his album to follow in mid summer of 22′. | IG: @GiftNJ

Olivia – Acclaimed singer/songwriter/reality star Olivia makes an exciting return to music with the release of her new single “No Permission,” out now, from her upcoming project Under Pressure. The sultry new tune is catchy and melodic, highlighting Olivia’s remarkable vocal abilities and impressive penmanship. While staying fresh and current, she pushes boundaries evoking nostalgic R&B without sacrificing quality. | IG: @only1olivia

PacSlim – PacSlim is a diversified New Oreleans based artist that will not disappoint. His new album “Ri3h Tendencies” is full of hit singles such as Members, Too Quick, She Badd, FYI, etc. His music is unique, wild, creative, spensive, dope and something to open your mind to! | IG: @1big6_pacslimyf

Pharoah Lotto – Pharoah Lotto is back with a smashing hit titled “Big Flexer”. The talented artist was recently co-signed by The Game! Check out his new joint now and follow him on IG for his latest releases. | IG: @Pharoah.Lotto

Pierre – Pierre is not only a legendary record producer and songwriter, but also happens to be one of the most educated NFT gurus on the internet. Pierre wrote and produced a song on Ludmilla’s latest EP with a record ft Akon and Justin Love called “Put4ria”. With a great business mindset and eye for talent he discovered Sydney Shae last year and has been managing her ever since. He is someone you’re going to hear a lot about in the coming months. | IG: @Pierre

Rahn Harper – Rahn Harper is a name you will be hearing a lot more of in the coming months. With the release of his new EP “Water & Oil” he’s gained major traction on Spotify with 50,000+ monthly listeners. Rahn Harper is an artist who can do it all, with a seriously refined rap tone and an angelic singing voice. | IG: @rahnharper

S.Burley – Based out of Tampa, S.Burley has, according to 813area.com, ‘‘all the elements an up and coming rapper needs to make it big time’’. S.Burley is not only an artist with his own indie record label, he also produces music. He’s an artist with a focus on creating original music, inspired by genres as diverse as old-school rap, modern hip-hop, and more. | IG: @Sburleytbjr

$Lim – If you had a pot and added a sprinkle funk, some rap and R&B with a dash of soul, and a few ounces of cannabis you’ll get an artist name $Lim. Originally from Chicago, $Lim is an independent artist based in Detroit that is popularly known for changing the atmosphere when he walks in. He created a stoner classic with “First Time”, produced by DJ Leary Luv. ‘First Time’ was picked up by Cinematic Music Group/Universal for distribution. Check out his latest singles: Faded All Week, Fat Gucci, Alaska, BDE and more. Sit back, locate ya lighter, and prep yourself for a nice session with $Lim. | IG: @slimwiththepackk

Sojiii – Sojiii is a fast rising Artist from Toronto, Canada. Born from an African background in Nigeria and raised in Canada. Sojiii Fell in love with Music at age 13, and started his professional Journey in the year 2013 after getting a scholarship in music. He is known to be a star performer, singer, song-writer and producer. He has toured all over the world and recently released his latest single “Joyous”, which has 300k+ streams in just 2 months. Sojiii is on a mission to show the world he is the new wave in the music scene globally. | IG: @Iamsojiii

Sun Down Charlie – Sun Down Charlie is back with another classic titled “We On”. The rising artist made his debut on all major platforms in 2020 with his song “Kele” and has been burning up the hip-hop world ever since with a plethora of new projects. The song “We On” gives listeners world access to a luxurious and tropical mood. | IG: @SunDownCharlieMusic

Sydney Shae – Sydney Shae is a pop star in the making. Not only is the L.A based singer planning to release an EP this summer, but she is also putting together a band to grow and strengthen her presence in the music world. There is little to no doubt that these new releases will be wildly successful and reach even more listeners than she’s been able to in the past. Make sure to stay up to date with Sydney on her social media. | IG: @iamsydneyshea

Thelonious – A Toronto native artist on the rise, Thelonious is recognized by his listeners for his polished lyricism, introspective storytelling and captivating delivery. He’s been patiently honing his craft for the past five years studying the artistry and careers of those before him. He’s been consistently releasing music and evolving as an artist. Look out for his new EP ‘Albion Road Demos.’ dropping soon! | IG: @_thelonious

Timeekah Murphy – 12 years Army Veteran Timeekah “Murph” Murphy traded in her fatigues for a sewing machine and luxury fabrics. The designer, launched her brand Alani Taylor in 2016, after the birth of her daughter. Murph’s unique pieces have garnered the attention of lots of celebrities. From Beyoncé, Cardi B. to DaBaby, and Nick Cannon, the streets are talking about the latest designer to make waves in the fashion industry. | IG: @Alanitaylorco

Tragically Magic – Tragically Magic returns with a new single “The Limit” ft. Bingx. The talented artist hails from Massachusetts. Tragically Magic suffered numerous life-threatening injuries in his life. Friends nicknamed him “Black Magic,” as he continued to cheat death, over and over again. With a revolutionary approach to the current music culture, Tragically Magic strides forward, bringing audiences out of low places and inspiring hope. | IG: @TheTragicallyMagic

Trap Teezy – Trap Teezy is an Alabama based American trap rapper and songwriter. His hometown’s culture has been a major influence on his rap style and delivery. Trap Teezy has been honing his craft since he was 16. In 2022, he signed with Sanbox Entertainment. He soon released his first self-titled EP “Trap Teezy”. Working with SBE, Trap Teezy recorded his blazing hot debut single “Osama”. Trap Teezy is gearing up to make back-to-back single releases for the rest of 2022. His music gives old school rap vibes from a new school trap perspective, which is becoming the traditional sound from the streets of Central City, Anniston. | IG: @_trapteezy_

Trü Mob – Trü Mob is one of the most popular Portland street wear brands, and has been making a name for themselves all over the U.S. With the successful release of their collaboration with EndGame, and consistent appearances at local pop ups and vintage markets, this grass roots clothing brand is laying the necessary groundwork for a big year. With a mafia inspired design style, and tons of knowledge in the screen printing world Trü Mob might be the next big brand to come out of the Pacific Northwest! | IG: @truemobapparel

Twø Wrøngs – Twø Wrøngs is a buzzing artist based in Portland, who is bringing a new wave to the city. With a strong vocal tone and dense lyrical ability he’s begun to make a name for himself. With the release of his new EP “For You ღ” Twø Wrøngs delivers a deep body of work about love and loss, bringing a much needed nostalgic sound to the modern music world. This artist is 100% someone you want to add to your summer playlists! | IG: @twowrxngz

Unbotherd – My artist name is “Unbotherd”, but that name can’t always mix well when there’s built up Rage, enough to make it into Rage 2 deluxe. In 2021 I was finishing my 3rd semester of college trying to figure out why I’m not happy here, but happy when I’m recording music being able to express my thoughts on a mic. After many long nights of thinking, I decided to drop out of college to focus on building my music career. Rage 2 is inspired by the events that took place capturing all the emotions felt during that period. | IG: @_kickcrzy_

Winn Stamm – Winn Stamm is a musical genius who is from Minnesota. His art has been gaining a lot of attention over the last year. With the release of his hit album “I’m tired of love” in 2021, the young superstar has since been creating tons of new music and is ready to show the world. Keep an eye out for Winn Stamm and get ready for a big year ahead. | IG: @winnstamm

Xane – Xane is a young artist who was born In Amman Jordan and is now making a name for themself in the Portland music scene. With the release of their debut single “Something Bout You” back at the end of last year, they began building a fan base for their art. Being aware of their passion for music since a young age they have been developing their singing skills for years. Xane is an artist you will want to keep your eye on in 2022! | IG: @Xaneangeline

YaLLa the Melodica – The rising Los Angeles based artist has just released “Are You the One?” This vibrant song marks only her second release on DSPs, but considering her sharply-crafted melodies and engaging production choices one would never know it. Following up her debut single “You Make Me Hot”, this offering finds her continuing to present an immersive and colorful blend of retro 80’s influenced pop and modern R&B stylings. | IG: @yallathesinger

Young Zeek – Blow 3 is the 3rd installment to the Blow series that Young Zeek has produced. The underground legend delivers a dark, gritty, slick talking sound of music that his fans have grown to love. Blow 3 blends harmony and dope lyrics, it makes this project worth listening to. Definitely a classic project. Check it out now! | IG: @YoungZeek23

Staying connected is key when it comes to online inspiration. By adding these talents to your social media, music playlists, or network, fans and followers can get optimum engagement. Stay tuned for new projects, books, music, films, or entrepreneurial power tips. There is a known saying that goes, “Your network is your net worth,” and we couldn’t agree more. 2022 will birth some of the greatest rising names to come.

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