The 10 UK Rap Artists Redefining the Sound in 2025

UK rap is in an exciting time as it enters a new era. It feels more raw, genre-blurring, and even more diverse than before. As legacy names like Stormzy and Dave have cemented their presence, a fresh wave of artists are rising, and they bring along bold sounds and new stories with them. Here are 10 emerging UK rap talents reshaping the scene in 2025:

Pozer

From Croydon, Pozer has flawlessly fused UK drill and Jersey club sounds together. With viral singles like “Kitchen Stove” and his new EP Against All Odds, he is on the rise and proving that high-energy rap can be both gritty and danceable.

Ceechynaa

Fearless, flamboyant, and fierce, Ceechynaa is an undeniable breakout star. Her provocative bars and bold visuals on tracks like “Peggy” and “Legal Baby” challenge the gender norms that remain in the rap genre, and celebrate female dominance.

LeoStayTrill

Born in Zimbabwe and raised in South London, LeoStayTrill blends Afro-beats and trap music with classic drill. His melodic hooks and smooth delivery on songs like “Pink Lemonade” have given him both street buzz and international co-signs.

Nemzzz

Representing the north of England well, mancunian-rapper Nemzzz is one of the UK’s most promising young stars. He has incredibly polished and self-reflective lyricism, especially in his latest mixtape Rent’s Due, which made it to No. 6 on the UK Albums Chart.

DEELA

British-Nigerian rapper DEELA blends Afrobeat influences with alternative rap on her EP Good Girl No Dey Pay. She makes sure her voice is clear and her feminist message is heard. Her political edge and melodic flair match together to champion the genre well.

Eyve

Eyve represents Scotland’s underrepresented Black and queer creative community fiercely. She fuses rap with techno and experimental sounds. Her EP Sista! Beyond the Sky Isn’t the Limit displays her perspective on identity and artistic freedom.

Hulton

South-East London rapper Hulton has built up some excitement of the return of melodic storytelling in rap, present on tracks like “Background.” He’s turned down major label deals to stay independent, working closely with producers to foster a personal, heartfelt sound.

Ceebo

Ceebo’s narrative rap has a certain local twist. The rapper has an admirable background in community organising, and his project LAMBETHNOTLA offers insight of city living in London, characterised by its mature lyrics and cinematic, worldbuilding accompaniment. 

Chy Cartier

North London’s Chy Cartier reminds me of early Nicki Minaj, with unapologetic energy, sharp bars and charisma. As a regular performer Recess and Boiler Room events, she is developing such a bold, fashion-forward persona that matches her punchy delivery.

Kwes E

A rapper-producer from Canterbury, Kwes E brings jazz back into rap so smoothly and seamlessly. His single “juggin” shows off his range—effortless verses that are stocked full of community-conscious lyricism. His production is what is most exciting about him, in my opinion.

These artists are beginning to push boundaries and proving that UK rap is not one sound, but many voices from any and everywhere. If 2025 is any indication, innovative rap is set to soar.