HDBeenDope

New York-based rapper and producer HDBeenDope mixes classic hip-hop and minimalist trap with intelligent storytelling lyrics. His unique approach landed his celebratory songs in video game soundtracks for EA Sports’ Madden NFL 21, NBA 2K, and EA’s UFC, and took center stage on releases like his sophomore album, 2020′s BrokeN Dreams.
Growing up in New York, HDBeenDope (aka Darius Henry) was inspired by the city’s rich history of hip-hop culture, with artists such as Jay-Z, Nas, and Notorious B.I.G. influencing his style. Rapping from the age of nine, HDBeenDope first started producing and creating his own music when he was 16, initially releasing it onto the Internet. With his intelligent, lyrical style and classic boom-bap-esque hip-hop making waves, it wasn’t long before he released his debut album, 2016′s PHeace Be the Journey. A slew of tracks followed, including “Double Up,” “Rev Run,” and “New Year Theme Music,” before he issued the harder edged, trap-influenced 2019 song “Byrd.” HDBeenDope’s sophomore album, BrokeN Dreams, appeared the following year and saw him blending the classic East Coast hip-hop sound of his earlier music with the more minimalist trap style of his later work. HDBeenDope was a contender for the tenth spot on XXL Magazine’s 2020 Freshman class as his tracks continued to accrue streams in the tens of millions. In 2021, he released the tracks “21 Bags,” “Best Out,” and “ReallyMite,” the last of which was made in collaboration with multi-platinum producer Earl on the Beat. ~ Rich Wilson