New Generation of UK Rappers Steps Out

Grime—a musical genre fusing, among other things, hip-hop, electronica, and Caribbean influences—is being rejuvenated and redefined by “youngers,” the new generation of Internet-savvy MCs reaching for the charts, the Independent reports. “The ‘olders’ grew up listening to rap and hip-hop and other artists from the US,” says YouTube star Griminal. “But the younger generation, we grew up listening to that plus all the UK talent. So I’d say we’ve got a better balance.”

The youngers certainly have more chances to build buzz, turning from the pirate radio stations of old to social marketing on the Web. “I’ve had the benefit of eight years of sitting back and watching people,” says Devlin, 20. “Now, lyrics are more intelligent, rather than just something to get the crowd hyper. A lot of the young MCs are a bit more complex.”