The UK, despite perceptions in the United States, has a large and very popular rap scene with some very talented artists who've put out some fabulous records over the years.
In the UK, urban music has long been dominated by hip hop and grime artists, who've consistently taken the top spots in the UK charts consistently over the years. While hip hop artists aren't quite as big in the UK as they are in the US, there are still names that are known nationwide.
So if you are interested in knowing more about hip hop from the United States, I suggest that you check out these artists:
1. Chipmunk
This UK rapper's real name is Jahamaal Fyffe, but he chose the more pronounceable (and slightly ridiculous) stage moniker of Chipmunk. Chipmunk won the best UK newcomer at the MOBO awards in 2008. His new album, "I Am a Chipmunk" is dropping this November and has built up a lot of hype. While he is a newcomer, his style has already won him a lot of fans and is definitely one artist worth checking out.
2. Bashy
Real name Ashley Thomas, he sometimes also goes by the stage name "Twat". He released his debut solo album in Jan 09. Previously won acclaim for the controversial track "Black Boys".
3. Wiley
Wiley is a MC and producer whose real name is Richard Kylea Cowie. He is well known as being one of the pioneers of the sub-genre of Grime. Also well known as one of the founders of the Roll Deep Crew. Wiley found mainstream success with the single "Wear My Rolex" released in 2008.
4. N-Dubz
A MOBO (Music of Black Origin) award winning hip hop trio comprising of Dino "Dappy" Contostavlos, Tula "Tulisa" Contostavlos, and Richard "Fazer" Rawson hit the UK charts with their debut album, "Uncle B", which was certified platinum. They have been going strong consistently after hitting the mainstream.
5. Ghetts
Ghetts real name is Justin Jude Clarke Samuel. This East London rapper is one of the pioneers of Grime and has received a lot of mainstream coverage. His debut album will be released in 2009, named "Rebel With a Cause" after winning a lot of fans with his underground mixtapes.
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