Top 10 to Watch For 2013 (List)

“Top 10 to Watch For” is one of the first editorials I started on Da-What and it is still one of my favorites. Alumni from my list include most of the big time music out there both on the blogs and the radio; I would even say my lists are usually more accurate than the heralded “XXL Freshman list” (haha, only minor shots fired). My list isn’t about knowing an artist’s name before anyone else, I am just always on the lookout for up-and-coming, quality music. Below are 10 rappers who I think everyone should be paying attention to in 2013. The 10 come from all over the country and each brings something different to the table but they are ALL extremely dope. I have no doubt that these guys will be making moves and blowing up sooner rather than later. And with that I finally give you the Top 10 to Watch For in 2013.

10. Dillon Cooper – New York, NY.  New video “Survival of the Fittest”

9.  Iamsu! – Bay Area, Ca. Last mixtape $uzy 6 $peed

8. Casey Veggies – Los Angeles, Ca. Last mixtape Customized Greatly Vol. 3

7. Dee-1 – New Lorleans, LA. Last mixtape The Focus Tape

6. King Louie – Chicago, IL. Last mixtape Drilluminati

5. Eighty4 Fly – Seattle, Wa. Last mixtape Colors

4. King Mez – Raleigh, NC. Last mixtape My Everlasting Zeal

3. Tito Lopez – Gulfport, MS. Last mixtape The Hunger Game

2. Joey Bada$$ – New York, NY. Last mixtape 1999

1. Action Bronson – New York, NY. Last mixtape Rare Chandeliers

I have individual write-ups on each member of the list coming soon, but in the meantime get to know these guys by checking out the links I’ve included to their twitter accounts and recent projects. And, since you’re here, don’t forget to take a look at the site’s latest ongoing project, ‘Da’ What is Hip Hop?.