You think rapping is all about swearing? The thoughtful lyrics of these Hong Kong hip hop artists will change your mind
We love heading out to live music venues in Wanchai to see top local bands and shopping at the best vinyl stores. Although Canto music hasn’t gone far in the international scenes, there are a lot of talents hidden in the 852. All music lovers have to check out these cool Hip Hop artists in Hong Kong whose tunes we have on repeat at Honeycombers HQ and through our playlists on Spotify.
1. JB
Filippino by blood, JB loves Hong Kong as much as many Hong Kongers. This swag dude (who has an iconic moustache and “SMFB” tattoo on his neck) is not the kind of rapper who only swears and talks about weed. His unique depiction of social issues has helped him accumulate fans over the years. From addressing people’s hype for luxury fashion in 潮共 to expressing his past weight loss struggles in 點解咁撚肥, the catchy lyrics and hooks will surely loop in your head all day.
Listen to more from JB on Spotify
2. TXMIYAMA
Nicknamed Jap Boy, TXMIYAMA from Japan proudly says “I’m from the 852” despite being called a foreigner sometimes. His rap portrays various night scenes in Hong Kong, such as clubbing at Lan Kwai Fong, drinking at Chungking Mansions and driving around Hollywood Road. Quarantine is one of TXMIYAMA’s latest releases which speaks to many Hong Kongers, expressing how people struggle to earn a living and afford rent during this harsh time. We are big fans of his deep and charismatic vocals.
Listen to more from TXMIYAMA on Spotify
3. Dough-Boy
Having grown up overseas, Dough-Boy returned to Hong Kong in 2007 to begin his music career, becoming an iconic figure in the local hip hop industry. He first went viral after his big hit 狂舞吧 which received the Hong Kong Film Award for Best Original Film Song. Having collaborated with popular artists such as Masiwei, Jackson Wang and Justin Lo, Dough-Boy is known as a hardworking rapper and producer, amusing fans with top-notch music on Bakerie Productions and regular collabs with different artists. He is also an expert in a variety of music genres, whether it is funky songs like MAMA or more hardcore raps like 望穿秋水.
Listen to more from Dough-Boy on Spotify
4. Derek
Soulful might be the best word to describe Derek’s music. Just listen to how he sings “girl can you be mine” in Piece of Your Time and you will understand. His songs are mostly slow and emotional with an emphasis on love. Imagine yourself wandering around the harbour after a painful breakup– Derek’s Sick of Goodbyes will shoot right into your heart that you can’t help but cry. Want to find an artist who can connect with your love experience? Check out what Derek has got.
Listen to more from Derek on Spotify
5. Young Hysan
Trap lovers, you gotta check out Young Hysan’s Finesse and By Any Means. Having graduated from a top-notch university, Young Hysan refuses to live by society’s expectations for elites and goes after his music dreams. Dreamy and quirky elements are always seen in his MVs, just like the bloody doll in Foreign and the purple sky in I’m Up. We love his clear delivery and soothing voice so much that These Days is on our bedtime playlist!
Listen to more from Young Hysan on Spotify
6. Haysen Cheng
Believe it or not: Haysen Cheng is only twenty-years-old! This passionate and hardworking rising star has a distinctive voice that gives a chill, IDGAF vibe. We promise his spirit and voice will be stuck in your head instantly. Picking up a co-sign from Trouble, Haysen Cheng’s Machete was reposted by FirePanda and added to b2 Music’s compilation album, pushing his fame beyond Hong Kong. Other than being a dope artist, Haysen Cheng is also an energetic basketball player, multilingual smartie and a loving son.
Read our interview with Haysen Cheng.
Listen to more from Haysen Cheng on Spotify
7. 丹ちㄗモ匚匕(Aspect)
Aspect completely nailed it in Mama Told Me 2020’s The Real Hong Kong Cyphers #1. The delivery was clear (if you don’t fancy mumble rap) and the rhyme was lit. When you see his style of rapping, you somehow think of Eminem. Although he does not release tracks as frequent as other rappers, you will find small bits of freestyles on his Instagram.