Ego Day featuring Exjames12, Khari Ennui, Hitxion and more
Exjames12 is a musical artist and video producer,best known for his experimental rap and short films as a director, James brings a new Japanese indie pop flavor to the Chicago rap scene with projects like “Ego Boy” and Gold Ocean, creating a large following in Chicago, James’s creative drive to constantly produce more content has lead to his rising internet status collaborating with artist like BIGBABYGUCCI, Khari Ennui, Hitxion. And Becca First Name Given, Last Name Chosen, Khari Ennui is a dynamic alternative hip-hop artist from the South Suburbs of Chicago. In the past year I’ve performed for stages such as From The ‘Go Fest at the DuSable Museum Campus, Pride for GayBash’d Boston and Bush Babe at The Fine Line in Minneapolis, as well as recently headlining the Promontory. I’ll also be performing at the Schubas Tavern and the bookclub (FKA the Elbo Room) in the month of May. Hitxion is an alternative hip-hop artist, poet, and community organizer making waves in the Chicago music and arts scene. Known for his ability to seamlessly blend rap, singing, and poetry, his music delivers a raw yet experimental sound that challenges convention. His artistry and impact were recognized in Chicago Reader’s Gossip Wolf, highlighting his work with TOUCH ERF, the creative organization he founded to uplift and connect artists. Hailing from Chicago’s South Side, Ifeanyi Elswith is an R&B/Hip-hop artist known for her fearless fusion of jazz, soul, pop, house, reggae, dancehall and her Belizean roots—crafting a sound that’s unmistakably hers. Named 1st runner-up for The Chicago Reader’s ‘Best R&B Artist’ of 2023 and dubbed “the coolest girl on the block,” she’s been highlighted by platforms like Chicago Tribune, Vocalo, Windy City Live, and Audiotree. Ifeanyi has shared stages with artists like Vic Mensa, dancehall legend, Capleton, and Panic! At The Disco’s Brendon Urie. Her music has reached audiences across the globe, with placements on MAX, NBC, Tubi, and in a Belikin Beer commercial in Belize. With her unique style and magnetic, pretty gyal energy, Ifeanyi isn’t just making music—she’s making waves. VVS Gem – I sound like the weather unpredictable but there’s a part of me that everyone loves or will enjoy.People should be excited to see me perform because I offer a unique experience of music and crowd interaction something you can tell your grandkids about because they’ll ask what it was like when you’re old and wrinkled. My name is Walt From.The.Future and I’m in the “in-between” space of Hip-Hop, with a sound that could be considered mainstream but deviates into the realm of experimental and alternative. People have compared my sound to artists like: Lil Uzi Vert, Travis Scott and Don Toliver. Those who have seen me perform always give witness to one thing: I bring an undeniable energy and presence to the stage that makes the room shake and creates an experience that’s hard to forget. TMRW FRVR. jbreaux is an alternative R&B artist with modern and throwback Hip-Hop & Rap influence.
K.XXIV, Jamir, Mike DFG, Kdrippie, 312MAFIA (DJ Set)
My name is K.XXIV and I’m a Recording Artist, Lyricist, and Producer currently based in Chicago, IL. Since 2018, I’ve made it my mission to spread my message on mental health and creative self-expression through my music. With a mix of sounds to the likes of Tyler, The Creator, $uicideboy$, and BROCKHAMPTON, I always aim to give a one-of-a-kind performance that exceeds audience expectations. Mike DFG, an emerging Hip Hop artist from Chicago’s Westside, is making waves in the underground hip-hop scene with his iconic voice, unique blend of energetic beats and raw, unfiltered lyrics that reflect life in Chicago. Known for his captivating stage presence and versatile sound, Mike has released standout projects like his self-mixed EP Line Of Fire and debut mixtape Love Letter To The West. He’s performed at iconic venues like Reggie’s Rock Club, Schubas, and SXSW, and is also an active member of Chicago’s Grammy Chapter and the John Walt Foundation. Beyond being an artist, he empowers fellow artists and his community through his nonprofit, Bigger Than The City. Jamir is an upcoming rapper with a unique styleand flow unlike any other artist coming fromChicago. Starting his music career in December of 2022, he has experienced unprecedented growth with his hit song, “100 HXES”. With his fast paced and playful production and lyricism, you are guaranteed to play it back and move to the beat. Kdrippie – I would consider myself a melodic artist, people should be excited to see me perform based off of vibes that are being set throughout the music Also featuring 312MAFIA (DJ Set)
Woes (pop-up set)
send off Woes to SXSW with a pop-up performance FREE
Kid Yung, Javar Sounds, J. Onyx
Kid Yung is an Alternative Hip-Hop artist and Producer, with a dynamic range of vocal capabilities and brings the excitement wherever he performs. With diverse sounds, Kid plan to take his fans on a musical journey. Javar Sounds is a unique lyrical artist with crisp metaphors and great word placement. People should be excited to see him perform because he will be putting on a electrifying show and making the people feel good J. Onyx is a kid from Rogers Park with a sound from a different world. Experience master lyricism with compelling flows and addictive cadences from a sound you’ve heard before, but not like this!
Juice Mazelee, D2G, OA Zaye
Every set is different from the last one. Juice Mazelee likes to deliver an intimate performance every-time he gets the chance. making everyone in the crowd feel like family. The idea behind it makes new family members not fans. That’s the mission. Chicago Hip-Hop Props Award-Winner Anthony Di’Angelo Ingram, Jr. or “D2G” as he’s called in the Hip-Hop scene, is a laborer in music all around. Growing up on the southeast side of Chicago, 2G would always relate any life situation to a song that would describe his emotion at the time. Inspired by artists like Rakim, KRS-One, and Slick Rick, he began writing at age 11 and would later transform his writings into songs. Graduating from Hyde Park Academy in 2005, he would find himself enrolled into Columbia College Chicago, where he became fascinated by the artistic environment. This atmosphere would later introduce 2G to various artists and producers. A focused emcee , D2G seeks to bring glory back to his hometown of Chicago and earn a rightful place among Hiphop’s elite. Since releasing his first solo project in 2011, The Blood Diamond Tape, and his first album in 2013, July 9th: A Cancer Story, D2G has been performing and promoting his music across the country. In 2015, he released his sophomore effort, Short Summers Long Winters, a project that solidified him as rising royalty in Chicago’s underground scene and helped him win the Props Award for Best Male Emcee. Determined to have another big year, the Chicago storyteller recently released his “audiofilm”, The 1st Hot Day EP and plans on following it up with That One Friday, another EP scheduled for release later this year. Fans of D2G should be excited as 2024 will be a year of greatness for this Chicago Hiphop fixture. OA Zaye makes smooth rap music about real life and relatable experiences that make you dance and listen at the same time. People are always excited when he performs because it’s immersive and authentic, he make everyone feel like they’re part of the show.
Young Wolf, Uncanny Snow, Corebot
Young Wolf is a dynamic and talented hip-hop artist known for his lyrical prowess and captivating stage presence. With a unique sound that blends modern beats with classic hip-hop influences, he quickly gained recognition in the music scene. His breakout single, “In Case You Didn’t,” featuring the legendary Jim Jones, has garnered widespread attention, showcasing his ability to collaborate with some of the biggest names in the industry. Young Wolf continues to make waves with his authentic style and dedication to the craft, solidifying his place as a rising star in hip-hop. Uncanny Snow is a dynamic artist known for his high-energy performances and unique blend of reggae-fusion and hip hop. With a commanding stage presence, he has captivated audiences across various venues, delivering an electrifying experience that blends rhythmic reggae grooves with the pulsating beats of hip hop. His innovative sound and infectious energy have made him a standout performer, earning him acclaim and a loyal following. Uncanny Snow’s music is a testament to his versatility and creativity, pushing the boundaries of genre and leaving an indelible mark on the music scene. Corebot mixes everything from early 90s rap/hip-hop up to current trap and rap hits. But he throws an exotic spin on his sets by also including downtempo dub, house music, and glitch. He takes the audience on a journey that usually begins chill and ends with some bangers and setting the mood for the acts to follow or setting up an act with “tweener” sets. He includes original mash-ups and un-released tracks in my sets as well.
MC Homeless with DJ Halo, Coolzey, Mother Fortune
MC Homeless is a punk influenced rapper who is celebrating his new release with Kool Keith, Mushrooms and Acid. Coolzey’s sound encompases golden era hip-hop roots planted in black Iowa dirt and tempered by 90s alternative era rock influence yields a juxtaposition of the dark, horrific nature of life paired with a slapstick and comedic view of the world, allowing for a wide, unpredictable arsenal of material ranging from soul-spilling indie bedroom rock to wise-cracking battle rap and on to radio pop. Mother Fortune (MoFo) is an eclectic five-piece hip hop group based in Chicago whose funk, jazz, and soul influences drive their boisterous live sets, with vibes so good you’ll want to smack your mama–– or invite her to their next show. Made up of Shami and Moira, a dynamic rapper and vocalist duo, guitarist Cesar, bassist Tyler, and drummer Taskin, MoFo delivers everything from romantic lullabies to defiant, lyrical provocations. They promise to keep you on your toes with the quirky sensibilities of The Internet and Funkadelic-worthy breakdowns.
Paris Williams, Don’t Be Kendall, Devin
Gritty raps with the pretty tracks, Kansas City rapper Paris Williams is pioneering a bittersweet sound that is poised to live in headphones and speakers for years to come. Bursting onto the scene with his ambitious and forward thinking mixtape DROP DEAD GORGEOUS, Williams immediately established himself as an artist full of creative ideas, and earned comparisons to the sounds of early Odd Future and Kevin Abstract releases from online blogs and forums. From there he pulled back to focus and refine his sound across tight EPs with 2020’s Cocoa and 2023’s Rebel Heart.devin. , a rapper coming from Northport, Alabama, and currently based in Chicago, has been on a journey trying to figure out the complexities of his identity and the world around him through his music. With a curiosity for playing with language, devin’s lyrics serve as a vehicle for introspection and understanding.
World Energy Corporation, tbd, tbd
“Slipknot meets Wu-Tang”
NOLAN THE NINJA, Judy, Paris Ye
Since 2019, NOLAN (also known as Nolan The Ninja) has been on a tear. He released his acclaimed full-length LP SPORTEE on Mello Music Group, including NOLAN’s breakthrough hit “Oranges”. NOLAN gained global recognition after performing Oranges on the popular music performance series COLORSxSTUDIOS. The Cali-born, Detroit-bred artist / producer has collaborated with some of rap’s most creative artists including Chuck Inglish of The Cool Kids, Quelle Chris, Homeboy Sandman, Chris Crack among others. His music has garnered critical praise from Pitchfork, Billboard, Vibe, HipHopDX, OkayPlayer, PassionWeiss & more.