2020 didn’t go as planned for many of us; it was a truly turbulent year but amongst all the madness, good music thankfully stayed consistent. To celebrate this year in music, we bring you a special edition of Under The Radar that looks back on some of our favourite UTR picks of the year, as well as five new picks to pass the torch.
J Huncho – “700 Horses”
A newer entry, J Huncho made a final quarter return with “700 Horses”. His only release this year and it’s a straight up vibe.
VB – “Loyal“
The visual fresh out the oven, but the audio already heavy in rotation. North London’s VB is criminally underrated and “Loyal” proves it.
BZ – “BIG OGA”
The debut from the Croydon rapper, BZ came through with an undeniable bop. We’re excited to see what he has in store for the new year.
GRQ – “THE RE”
The first offering from East London 3-man collective, GRQ. They laid down unique flows and a rhythmic hook on “The RE”.
Ragz Orignale – “4AM ft. Eliza”
Ragz Originale always comes with the vibes, “4am” no different. One of many heaters from his txt ur x EP.
MOKO – “Eighteen”
Authenticity in abundance, Moko is a classic talent. Both lyricism and melodies both on tap, “Eighteen” – super smooth.
CA7DO – “SweetTooth”
An uniquely upbeat one from South London artist CA7DO, when talking consistent new artists we need to mention his name.
Chappo x Q2T – “Figure 8”
Initially slept on, Chappo and Q2T’s “Figure 8” is a high energy anthem. Braggadocios to the perfect extent with the punchlines on lock.
Scribz Riley – “East Side”
An elevating year for Scribz Riley as a solo artist, “East Side” heartfelt and full of nostalgia, Scribz flexed his vocal ability here.
Jords – “Almost An Adult”
Jords gave us a whole experience with “Almost An Adult”. Raw, introspective and consisting of several tunes – the whole instalment deserves a clap.
Dreya Mac – “Skippin”
Serving as the first introduction to Dreya Mac as an artist for many of us. She burst through the door with a bang and style dissimilar to anything out.
Tamera – “Flipside”
UK R’n’B really flourished this year, with Tamera as one of it’s amazing contributors. “Flipside” jam-packed of infectious melodies.
Maxi Millz – “Burning Ears”
It wasn’t just the ladies that had the vocals on lock in 2020, Maxi Millz got in his bag this year. “Burning Ears” one of several great tunes from him.
Joe James – “Gotham Freestyle”
Many know Joe James has been a shellers, he showcases that prowess again here. Dropping a series of cold freestyles this year, the “Gotham Freestyle” stood out as the fan fave.
Cloudy – “Bit Of Me”
Another debut, East London’s Cloudy didn’t let rona stop him from giving us a summertime banger. “Bit Of Me” has an irresistible hook and unmatched vibe.
Bellah – “Something U Like”
Bellah did not miss this year. “Something U Like” a sweet-sounding love song from her progressively cold discography.
Wax – “Jurgen Klopp”
Punchlines locked and loaded, Wax delivered an effortlessly hard track with “Jurgen Klopp”. More music from Wax in 2021 is greatly anticipated.
ShaSimone – “Belly Freestyle”
The first taste of what she has to offer, ShaSimone snapped on this freestyle. Her pen game strong, she made it look so easy.
Cristale – “Whites”
Cristale’s given us countless cold verses this year, “Whites” no different. The first official single from the South London MC – her 2021 looks promising.
Bexx – “Snowfall”
Bexx was another new artist that 2020 brought us, “Snowfall” undoubtedly an impressive debut. Like he says, he spits ill and is definitely one to watch.
Icee tGM – “Imagine”
Combining smooth vocals and bars for a top tier track, Icee tGM is talented to say the least. “Imagine”, clean cut good vibes.
Prophet – “Losses”
A reflective, mellow instalment from the South London artist. Stepping up to the mic as well as producing the beat, this one is admirably all him.
Akemi Fox – “Onto Something”
Taken from her new Colour You In EP, “Onto Something” is a soothing sultry tune from the angelically voiced artist.
Park Hill – “False Pretense”
A melting pot of his UK and U.S style influenced style. Park Hill is has the melodies down and shows it again here. “False Pretense” a sombre but great listen.
Chin0 – “Foreign ft. YB Jefe”
East London’s Chin0 and YB Jefe come together for this jumpy one. Chin0 dropping hard-hitting verses and YB providing an upbeat melodic hook.
Catch you in 2021 where Under The Radar will be back to keep you up to date on all of the tunes you might end sleeping on. For now, check out our Spotify playlist below.