Along with sharing his latest single and video, “Off Top,” we recently connected with Regina recording artist Pimpton to look at the future of hip-hop in Saskatchewan.
For this new feature, Pimpton handpicked 6 artists and/or producers from his province that he thinks should be on people’s radar.
“I’ve always felt like Sask was largely overlooked when it comes to music, and in particular hip-hop music,” explained Pimpton. “So, in the wake of my new video release, I decided to team up with HipHopCanada to highlight hip-hop’s up-and-coming 6 from the 306. Enjoy.”
Check out Pimpton’s list below. Pimpton’s “Off Top” is available now on Spotify, and other digital streaming platforms via Gorilla Clan Records.
6 From The 306
Coleman Williams & Yohan Yemba
A dynamic rap-duo based in Regina, Saskatchewan. Regina is known for its old-school approach to hip-hop, but Coleman Williams and Yohan Yemba consider themselves as outliers.
Performing in front of hundreds at Briercrest’s YouthQuake and recently winning the SaskMusic Award for Hip-Hop Artist of the Year Award, these are definitely two artists to look out for in the coming year.
Their debut collaborative album, 3Stock, is infused with a strange mix of electronic music, boom-bap, trap, and hyper-pop, along with references to anime and gaming culture. The title track “3Stock” features a 3 part beat switch-up, bouncing between rapid fire trap beats and gritty, lyrical boom-bap. The duo doesn’t shy away from their electro-pop influences on tracks like “ABILITIES” featuring an ethereal pop chorus and a guest appearance from well-known rapper 350.
Coleman and Yohan believe in the potential of Regina’s underground talent. Their goal is to open doors for a new wave of Regina artistry, and to honor God every step of the way.
Follow @Cman.Willy and @YohanYemba on Instagram.
Dyelle
Dyelle; a young artist originally from Nigeria:
“I grew up in Kuwait (Middle East) but currently staying in Canada pursuing my music career. It all started in 2014 when I performed an original song I wrote at my high school talent show. It went so well that I had to do it again in 2015. In 2018, I released my first mixtape, Late Night, which opened up a lot of opportunities for me. I’ve done multiple shows and opened for multiple artists such as: Merkules, Rich the Kid, Houdini (from Toronto), Smiley, Pimpton and a few other local artists like LiL Windex and Mitchell Lawler. I fell in love with music at a young age but my shows and stage presence was always the talk around the city. I plan to keep pushing and finding ways and opportunities to take my career to the next level. That’s fosho.”
Follow @im_dyelle101 on Instagram.
Rooky
Rooky is an Afrocentric and enigmatic singer, songwriter and record producer who expresses his emotions through rhythmic melodies, passionate lyricism and solemn poetry. His style of infusing Afro elements with rhythm and blues, hip-hop and soul gives his musical expression a unique taste.
With four EPs and numerous singles released and grossing up to 200,000 streams on streaming platforms overall, he has successfully headlined various shows and usually performs with a unique band called, The Bad Hvbits.
Rooky has also scored multiple nominations for the prestigious Saskatchewan Music Awards including a 2022 nomination for Hip-Hop Artist of the Year. You can discover more about Rooky on iamRooky.com.
Follow @Rookyjegede on Instagram.
Nigel Childs
Nigel Childs is a Indigenous record producer from Regina, Saskatchewan. Nigel has produced music across the globe; from places like New Zealand, Brazil and as well as North America. His production has more than 250+ million streams/views, and he’s continuing to build on his impressive discography. His production helped earn Merkules and Stevie Ross their first Platinum record, and he recently produced on the debut album from OVO artist Smiley, Buy or Bye 2 (“Trippie”).
It took Nigel 15 years of producing music to be where he is at now. Earlier this year, he was nominated for an Industry Achievement Award at the Saskatchewan Music Awards. Nigel continues to sharpen his production skills and is hungry to build further within the industry. When people congratulate him on his success, his reply is always the same: “I’m just warming up/ this is just the beginning.” No doubt this Regina beatsmith has a ton in store for 2023.
Follow @NigelChilds on Instagram.
T Deniro
Regina’s own T Deniro has been making music for five years, building up his portfolio while collaborating with local and known artist/producers such as Young Moe, and LongMoneyKese from the DMV area. T Deniro’s music varies from chill riding music to upbeat tunes that motivate. His inspirations range from new and old—Biggie, Nas and 50 Cent to Kevin Gates, BabyFace Ray, and Jay Critch—which has helped him carve out a wide range of vibes within his sound.
T Deniro’s latest release is the “Whole Dash” single which is available now across digital streaming platforms. The accompanying video, available for viewing below, was directed by Drew Orthner.
Follow @TDeniro.Official on Instagram.
THINKTANK
2022 Sask Music Awards nominees for Hip-Hop Artist of the Year. THINKTANK is a creative collective based out of Regina, Saskatchewan. They hover between introspective and political realms—while maintaining an air of light-heartedness. Visit linktr.ee/THINKTANKMUSIC for music and more information.
Follow @THINKTANKLtd on Instagram.
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