2rare

A melodic rapper with a brash, devil-may-care attitude, 2rare started his rise near the end of the 2010s and broke through in 2020 with “Big Drippa,” a boastful single that quickly achieved streams in the millions. The Philadelphian’s social media following multiplied in 2022 with the Lil Durk collaboration “Q-Pid” and a featured appearance on NLE Choppa’s “Do It Again.” Subsequent singles into 2023 have built anticipation for the Second Estate signee’s first full-length project. The MC born Naseem Young dedicated himself to music in his teens, after he realized that hip-hop would be more fulfilling than academics and football. “Big Bag,” an easygoing anthem released independently, put him on the map in 2019, after which he signed a joint deal with 10K Projects, Homemade Projects, and Internet Money Records. “Big Drippa” was 2rare’s commercial debut. Released officially in February 2020, its streams soon exceeded six digits across platforms. “New Virus” and “Waikiki” were out before the end of the year. His toughest track yet, “Rare Story,” followed in 2021. After a couple more singles, 2rare leveled up in 2022 when “Q-Pid,” featuring Lil Durk, went viral. During that track’s ascent, 2rare was announced as the first signing to the Warner-supported Second Estate, presented at the label’s launch party with a reported cash amount exceeding one million dollars. The next day, NLE Choppa released his 2rare-assisted “Do It Again,” which became 2rare’s first Billboard Hot 100 placement, peaking at number 85 (and number 30 R&B/hip-hop). During late 2022 and early 2023, 2rare’s momentum continued to build with singles such as “Lil Mama,” “Rare’s Room,” and “Rare Steppa,” along with a guest spot on French Montana’s “RATATAAAAA.” ~ Andy Kellman