J Soulja continues to help push the city’s hip-hop rock up the mountain while pulling along other artists. 2024 singles “Shade” and “Magic” showcase an MC approaching his prime over soul samples. As for his accompanying friends, CHZN commands respect with his 2024 EP The CHZN One, which features the aspirational single “Huntington Beach.” After successfully flirting with R&B, Lynn got back to talking big shit in 2024 on the Bad Guy EP and follow-up “Wake Up,” featuring Big Yavo. Blakchyl’s top-shelf, uplifting bars on “Beautiful Struggle” are welcome at any venue. Kalamari shows star potential on last year’s short album, kalamari 4 tha table. – Kahron Spearman