We proudly present the 2026 Artists to Watch List, a curated selection of 25 Chicago artists we believe are actively shaping the future of music culture. This year’s class reflects a new era of creativity, consistency, and undeniable impact.
CHECK OUT OUR LIST FROM 2025-2018
From viral moments to millions of streams across major platforms, each artist on this list has proven they can move audiences at scale. They are building real momentum, turning listeners into fans, and fans into communities. Chicago continues to stand as one of the most influential music cities in the world. The artists on this list carry that legacy forward with raw storytelling, genre bending sound, and a work ethic that refuses to slow down. They have stepped onto major stages including Lollapalooza, Lyrical Lemonade’s Summer Smash, and other high level festival platforms, showing they can command any crowd, anywhere.
This class represents more than just buzz. These artists are collaborating with respected names in the industry, working alongside top tier producers, and consistently delivering records that connect beyond the city. They are skilled writers, strong performers, and creators who understand both artistry and strategy. From studio sessions to stage performances, they are proving they belong in the next conversation of music culture.
Each artist participated in WHATSTHEWORD content day, stepping into sit-down interviews, viral challenges, and group discussions that captured their personalities beyond the music. These moments showcased their authenticity, creativity, and star power in real time, helping create content that continues to circulate and connect across platforms.
CHICAGO’S NEXT WAVE IS HERE
#25 Femi Ishola
Femi Ishola represents the creativity, versatility, and artistic depth that continue to make Chicago’s culture so influential. His approach highlights an artist who understands the importance of individuality, storytelling, and creating work that reflects a unique perspective. In a scene filled with emerging talent, Femi stands out through his commitment to developing his own voice and artistic identity. His ability to blend creativity with intention showcases the mindset of an artist focused on building something meaningful rather than chasing temporary attention. As Chicago continues expanding its influence across music and culture, artists like Femi Ishola represent the future of the city’s creative movement. His journey reflects the ambition, originality, and dedication that define the next wave of Chicago talent.
#20 Pistol Po
Pistol Po represents the dedication, consistency, and hunger that continue to define Chicago’s independent music movement. His rise gained significant momentum through his iconic “Freestyle Fridays” series, a platform that showcased his lyrical ability, creativity, and commitment to sharpening his craft while consistently engaging his audience. The series helped introduce more listeners to Pistol Po’s artistry and created moments that caught the attention of respected names throughout the industry. His ability to deliver authentic bars, maintain consistency, and build anticipation week after week highlighted the discipline behind his movement. Beyond the recognition, Pistol Po has continued to establish himself as an artist focused on longevity, using his platform to build a strong connection with supporters. His journey represents the power of consistency and originality, proving that a dedicated artist can create their own lane and earn recognition on a larger scale.
#18 Taffy
Taffy represents the creativity, individuality, and confidence that continue to shape Chicago’s next generation of artists. As a rising female voice within the city’s evolving music scene, she brings her own perspective and energy to a landscape filled with emerging talent. Her artistry reflects the importance of authenticity, personality, and creating a sound that feels true to who she is. Through her music and creative expression, Taffy continues to build an identity that separates her from the crowd while contributing to the diversity of Chicago’s movement. She represents the new wave of women artists proving that Chicago’s influence extends across different styles, sounds, and perspectives. As she continues to grow her platform and expand her reach, Taffy is a name positioned to make a lasting impact within the culture.
#15 Iconic Savvy
Iconic Savvy is proving that Chicago’s rising female artists are creating moments that reach far beyond the city. With a style built around confidence, creativity, and individuality, Savvy has developed an identity that allows her to stand out in a constantly evolving music landscape. Her momentum reached a major milestone when Drake tapped into her “Bestie” record, bringing increased attention to her artistry and highlighting the impact of Chicago’s independent talent. The recognition showcased the influence that emerging artists can have when their creativity connects with a wider audience. Beyond the co-sign, Savvy’s own originality, presence, and ability to create memorable music are what continue to drive her growth. As she continues expanding her catalog and building her brand, Iconic Savvy represents the new generation of women pushing Chicago’s sound forward.
#14 Big Opp
Big Opp represents the confidence, authenticity, and street-driven energy that continue to make Chicago’s rap scene one of the most influential in the country. His growing presence has been amplified by his connections within the city’s hip-hop community, including relationships with major figures such as G Herbo and other notable names in entertainment. Those ties have helped bring additional attention to his movement while showcasing the strong network and loyalty that often help fuel Chicago’s next generation of artists. Beyond the associations, Big Opp has continued to build his own identity through his music, personality, and ability to create moments that resonate with his audience. His confidence and hunger reflect the mindset of an artist determined to make his mark in a competitive industry. As Chicago’s new wave continues to gain national attention, Big Opp represents the ambition and authenticity that keep the city’s culture moving forward.
#13 Lil Noonie
Lil Noonie represents the ambition and determination that continue to fuel Chicago’s rising music scene. His ability to create music with personality and authenticity allows him to connect with fans who appreciate artists with a genuine story to tell. As he continues developing his sound, Lil Noonie has shown the potential to build a recognizable identity within a crowded field of emerging talent. His approach reflects the mindset of an artist focused on growth, consistency, and creating a lasting connection with his audience. Chicago has always been known for producing artists with distinct voices, and Lil Noonie carries that tradition into a new era. With continued momentum, he has the opportunity to turn his local presence into a much larger movement.
#11 Chris Crack
Chris Crack is a respected figure within Chicago’s independent music movement, known for his sharp lyricism, clever wordplay, and dedication to remaining authentic to his artistry. While many artists chase trends, Chris Crack has built his reputation by creating from his own perspective and staying committed to his unique approach. His consistency over the years has earned him recognition from listeners who appreciate substance, creativity, and true craftsmanship. As part of Chicago’s underground rap landscape, he represents the importance of independence and artistic control in an ever-changing industry. His influence extends beyond individual songs, serving as inspiration for emerging artists looking to build careers on their own terms. Chris Crack’s placement on this list reflects his impact, originality, and continued contribution to Chicago’s evolving sound.
#10 SÓL
SÓL brings a creative and intentional approach to Chicago’s music landscape, representing the artists who are expanding the boundaries of what the city’s sound can become. Her artistry is built around expression, atmosphere, and creating music that connects on a deeper level with listeners. Rather than following a formula, SÓL focuses on developing a sound and identity that feel personal and distinct. Her ability to blend creativity with authenticity showcases the versatility that continues to make Chicago’s scene one of the most influential in the country. Through her music and overall artistic direction, she represents a movement of creators who value originality and vision. As the city’s next wave continues to grow, SÓL stands out as an artist bringing a different perspective to the culture.
#8 Lil Twin
Lil Twin embodies the raw energy and authenticity that have always been at the center of Chicago’s music culture. His ability to bring personality, emotion, and real-life experiences into his artistry allows him to connect with listeners who value honesty and originality. In a scene filled with emerging talent, Lil Twin continues to develop his own identity while staying true to the environment that shaped him. His music reflects the hunger of an artist determined to make his mark and create a lasting impact. Beyond the records, his presence and dedication to his craft showcase the mindset needed to succeed in today’s industry. As Chicago continues to introduce new voices to the world, Lil Twin represents the next generation of artists carrying the city’s tradition of authenticity forward.
#7 Aspen Kartier
Aspen Kartier is emerging as one of Chicago’s most promising female artists, bringing confidence, creativity, and a unique perspective to the city’s evolving music scene. Her artistry reflects a new generation of women who are redefining their place in hip-hop and proving that Chicago’s next wave is filled with diverse voices. Aspen’s ability to combine personality, style, and musical expression has helped her create an identity that feels authentic and memorable. She understands the importance of building a complete brand, using her visuals, presence, and creativity to connect with audiences beyond just the music. In a city known for producing some of the most influential artists in the world, Aspen represents the continued expansion of Chicago’s sound and the rise of more dynamic female talent. With her dedication and growing recognition, Aspen Kartier is positioned as an artist to watch as she continues building her legacy.
#6 KELS!
KELS! is quickly establishing himself as one of Chicago’s standout rising artists, bringing confidence, creativity, and authenticity to the city’s next generation of talent. His sound reflects the raw energy and storytelling that have long defined Chicago’s music culture while adding his own perspective and style. KELS! has shown the ability to create records that connect with listeners while maintaining the originality needed to stand out in today’s competitive industry. Beyond his music, his dedication to building his identity and expanding his presence shows the mindset of an artist focused on long-term growth. He represents the new wave of Chicago artists who understand that impact comes from consistency, creativity, and staying true to their vision. With continued momentum, KELS! is a name that has the potential to become a major part of Chicago’s future sound.
#5 Sunshine Benzi
Sunshine Benzi brings a combination of charisma, confidence, and creativity that makes her one of Chicago’s most exciting emerging artists. Her presence reflects the new generation of talent that understands the importance of creating a complete identity beyond the music itself. With a style built around personality and originality, Benzi has continued to develop a connection with supporters who appreciate artists with a genuine point of view. Her ability to bring energy and individuality into her work highlights the diversity within Chicago’s current movement. Sunshine Benzi represents an artist who is focused on creating her own lane rather than following trends. As she continues to grow, her name is becoming synonymous with the fresh creativity driving Chicago’s next chapter.
#3 EarthSignChels
EarthSignChels brings a refreshing perspective to Chicago’s evolving music landscape with an artistic style rooted in individuality, creativity, and self-expression. Her ability to blend emotion, personality, and originality allows her to stand apart in a competitive industry where having a distinct voice matters. She represents the growing presence of artists who are redefining what Chicago’s sound can look like while staying connected to the culture that shaped them. Through her music and creative direction, EarthSignChels continues to showcase an intentional approach to her craft. Her willingness to experiment and embrace her own identity makes her one of the city’s most interesting emerging talents. With continued growth, she has the potential to become one of the defining female voices within Chicago’s next wave.
#2 Wyatt Waddell
Wyatt Waddell represents the creativity and versatility that continue to push Chicago’s music scene into new territory. His approach blends originality with a strong understanding of artistry, allowing him to create a sound and identity that feel uniquely his own. In a city filled with talented artists, Wyatt separates himself by focusing on more than just music. He understands the importance of visuals, branding, and creating an experience around his name. His ability to connect with listeners comes from staying authentic while continuing to evolve as an artist. Wyatt’s growth reflects the mindset of a new generation that is focused on longevity and building a real movement. As Chicago’s spotlight continues to expand, Wyatt Waddell remains one of the names positioned to make a major impact.
#1 Young Roddo
Young Roddo has emerged as one of Chicago’s most talked-about rising artists, earning the #1 spot on this year’s ranking through a combination of undeniable momentum, audience connection, and digital impact. With millions of views across his content and music, Roddo has demonstrated the ability to capture attention on a large scale while turning online engagement into real cultural movement. His sound reflects the intensity, confidence, and authenticity that have always made Chicago a powerhouse for developing unique voices. Beyond the numbers, Roddo’s biggest strength is his ability to create moments that resonate with fans and keep people invested in his journey. His consistency, strong presence, and understanding of how to connect with today’s audience have positioned him as one of the artists leading Chicago’s next generation. With his current trajectory, Young Roddo is not just building a buzz, he’s building a foundation for long-term impact.
FINAL WORD
These artists are born ready. They are disciplined, creative, and relentless in their pursuit of greatness. Each one brings a unique voice, a distinct perspective, and a hunger that cannot be ignored.
I present to you the WHATS THE WORD 2026 Chicago Artists to Watch.
