UKHH teams up with Underground Sound to highlight the top 5 Maltese hip-hop acts for 2023 and 2024.
What’s up, Ian here from Underground Sound. Yes, we forgive you for thinking hip-hop and Malta is not your first association when it comes to the genre, but let me try and convince you otherwise with our top six artists to check out.
In many ways most people would consider Malta an idyllic paradise. However, it’s not all fun in the sun – like any other country we have many social issues. All of which are perfect cannon fodder for the outspoken artists that are featured. Each has their story to tell and each brings their own style through the music they produce.
1. Eddie Fresco, from Malta to the Czech underground rap scene
Eddie Fresco is one of the more prominent Maltese hip-hop artists. He first made an impact on the local Maltese scene as part of the 215Collective. Since then, he spends his time between the Maltese isles and the Czech Republic where he’s been honing his lyrical and networking skills in the Czech underground rap scene.
Splitting his time between the two countries has clearly made a beneficial impact for Eddie which is seen through the 240k plus monthly listeners on Spotify and opening up for the likes of Central Cee on his previous EU tour. There are no signs of slowing down either after confirmation of studio time with Lil Skies & Lil Gnar.
2. Caro
Caro started his career alongside Eddie Fresco of 215Collective and has been perfecting his craft since 2012. He credits Eddie and 215 for helping him push his musical boundaries. Since 2016 he has released numerous tracks as part of the 215Collective.
Nowadays he can be seen (and heard) dropping solo material that has a deeper meaning which helps to push aside the self-doubts to a place of calm, with his influence coming from what he resonates with and it reflects in his music.
3. Rheez
Rheez’s journey in the music industry is nothing short of captivating. Born and raised in Malta, Rheez discovered his passion for music from a young age. Growing up, he was heavily influenced by the sounds of hip-hop and the power of lyricism. Inspired by the big names, Rheez began writing his own songs and honing his skills as a rapper.
Despite facing challenges and skepticism from those around him, Rheez remained determined to pursue his musical dreams. He tirelessly worked on perfecting his craft, spending countless hours writing, recording, and performing. His dedication and unwavering belief in his talent eventually paid off when he released his first mix tape, which quickly gained recognition in the local music scene.
4. Lapes
Lapes has been rapping and performing for over a decade and predominately spits in his native tongue. He first started releasing tracks via his YouTube channel before joining the now defunct No Bling Show.
Lapes was also active in releasing Marija s-Sabiħa a short film which fused together traditional Maltese għana music with hip hop, something nobody really expected. Back In 2015 Lapes released his album “Demm Ġdid” with local rapper Marmalja. 2018 onwards he’s focused on a solo career releasing his debut solo album “Merħba Malta,” produced by veteran Maltese hip hop producer DJ Mac.
Although Lapes has been quiet since his release of ‘Min Jaf’ with The New Victorians, word on the street is that he’s been cooking something up, so watch this space.
5. Sempliciment Tat Triq
For Sempliciment Tat Triq it all started in a town in Rabat in the Northern Region of Malta. He’s one of the co-founders of the Maltese hip-hop crew Sempliċiment Tat-Triq. The group is known to produce an aggressive and abrasive, style that challenges the class system. Proud of their heritage and with a need to keep the Maltese language alive they manly rap in Maltese both at home and during tours in the Balkans and Europe.
STT have been dropping music for over a decade and show no signs of stopping and living their rebellious message.
This article is part of a collaboration with Underground Sound. Born out in Malta but spanning the world over, Underground Sound is a global media hub dealing in the subversive and the countercultural. You can check out our article ‘The Top UK Rappers in 2023 & 2024 to Watch According to UKHH’, over on their site now.
