20 Best Rappers From Houston To Follow In 2023

Travis Scott, born Jacques Berman Webster II on April 30, 1992, in Houston, Texas, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer.

He began making music as a teenager and released his first full-length project, “Owl Pharaoh,” in 2013.

Scott’s breakthrough came in 2015 with the release of his second mixtape, “Days Before Rodeo,” and his debut studio album, “Rodeo,” which featured hit singles like “Antidote” and “3500.”

Since then, he has released several successful albums, including “Birds in the Trap, Sing McKnight,” “Astroworld,” and “JACKBOYS.”

In addition to his solo work, Scott has collaborated with many high-profile artists, including Kanye West, Drake, Rihanna, and Justin Bieber.

He is known for his energetic live performances and has headlined several music festivals, including Coachella and Rolling Loud.

Aside from music, Scott has also ventured into fashion and has collaborated with brands like Nike and Jordan.

He has also been involved in philanthropy, launching the Cactus Jack Foundation to support youth education and provide resources to underserved communities.

Travis Scott’s music has been praised for its unique blend of hip-hop, trap, and psychedelic sounds and his introspective and vulnerable lyrics.

He has won several awards and nominations throughout his career, including a BET Hip Hop Award and two Grammy nominations.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Megan Thee Stallion is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter.

Her origianl name is Megan Jovon Ruth Pete, and she was born on February 15, 1995, in Houston, Texas, and raised by her mother, who was also a rapper.

Megan began writing and performing raps at an early age and gained popularity in her hometown of Houston through freestyle videos she posted on social media.

In 2016, Megan released her first mixtape, “Rich Ratchet,” and followed it up with several more, including “Make It Hot” and “Tina Snow,” which gained her a significant following.

In 2019, she released the hit song “Hot Girl Summer,” which became a viral sensation and helped establish her as a rising star in the rap industry.
Megan’s music is characterized by her confident and explicit lyrics and her unique flow and cadence. She has often spoken about the importance of empowering women and celebrating their sexuality in her music.

In addition to her music career, Megan is also known for her philanthropy and activism.

She has been a vocal advocate for Black Lives Matter and has used her platform to raise awareness about Black community issues.

Megan has won several awards throughout her career, including three Grammy Awards in 2021 for collaborating with Beyoncé on the song “Savage.” 

She continues to be a prominent figure in the rap industry and is considered one of her generation’s most influential female rappers.

We can listen to her songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Slim Thug, whose real name is Stayve Jerome Thomas, is an American rapper, born on September 8, 1980, in Houston, Texas.

He grew up in the Northside neighborhood of Houston and began his music career in the late 1990s.

In 2005, Slim Thug gained national attention with his single “Still Tippin’,” which featured fellow Houston rappers Mike Jones and Paul Wall.

The song reached number 60 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a platinum-selling hit.

Slim Thug’s debut album, “Already Platinum,” was released in 2005 and featured collaborations with Pharrell Williams, Jazze Pha, and Bun B.

The album peaked at number 2 on the US Billboard 200 chart and was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Over the years, Slim Thug has released several successful albums, including “Boss of All Bosses” (2009) and “Hogg Life: The Beginning” (2015).

He has also collaborated with numerous artists, including Beyoncé, T.I., and Rick Ross.

Aside from music, Slim Thug is also known for his philanthropic work.

He established the Boss Life Foundation in 2010, focusing on providing resources and opportunities for underprivileged children and families in Houston.

Slim Thug continues to be a prominent figure in the Houston rap scene and has achieved significant success throughout his career.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Scarface, whose real name is Brad Terrence Jordan, is an American rapper, record producer, and actor born November 9, 1970, in Houston, Texas. 

He is best known for his work as a hip hop group Geto Boys member and his successful solo career.

Scarface started his career in music in the late 1980s as a member of the Geto Boys. He quickly became known for his distinctive flow and hard-hitting lyrics, which often addressed social and political issues affecting African Americans.

In 1991, Scarface released his debut solo album, “Mr. Scarface is Back,” which was critically acclaimed and helped to establish him as a solo artist.

He went on to release a string of successful solo albums, including “The Diary” (1994) and “The World Is Yours” (1993), which featured collaborations with notable artists like Nas and Jay-Z.
Throughout his career, Scarface has also produced music for other artists, including Tupac, Ice Cube, and UGK. In addition, he has worked as an actor, appearing in films like “Idiocracy” and “My Music: My Life.”

Scarface has been widely praised for his lyrical skills and ability to address complex issues in his music. In 2020, he announced that he had been diagnosed with COVID-19 and had experienced severe health complications.

He has since recovered and continues making music and inspiring fans with his powerful words.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Z-Ro is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter from Houston, Texas.

He was born on January 19, 1976, in Houston and grew up in Missouri City, a suburb of Houston. His real name is Joseph Wayne McVey IV.

Z-Ro began his music career in the late 1990s as a member of the group Guerilla Maab. In 1998, he released his debut solo album, “Look What You Did to Me,” which received critical acclaim and helped establish his reputation as a talented lyricist and storyteller.

Over the years, Z-Ro has released numerous albums and mixtapes, including “Let the Truth Be Told,” “Crack,” and “Drankin’ & Drivin’.”

His music often explores pain, struggle, and redemption themes, and his passionate delivery and poignant lyrics have earned him a dedicated following.

Z-Ro has collaborated with several notable artists, including Lil Wayne, Bun B, and Slim Thug.

He has also been nominated for several awards, including a BET Hip Hop Award for Best Indie Artist in 2010.

Despite his challenges throughout his life, including homelessness and legal troubles, Z-Ro has remained a respected figure in the hip-hop community and continues to release music that resonates with his fans. 

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Paul Wall, born Paul Michael Slayton on March 11, 1981, is an American rapper, actor, and entrepreneur from Houston, Texas.

He began his career as a DJ and later formed the rap group The Color Changin’ Click with fellow Houston rapper Chamillionaire.

In 2004, Paul Wall gained mainstream success with his debut solo album, “The Peoples Champ,” which reached number one on the US Billboard 200 chart.

The album featured hit singles such as “Sittin’ Sidewayz” and “They Don’t Know,” earning Paul Wall a BET Award for Best New Artist.

Paul Wall has collaborated with many notable artists, including Kanye West, T.I., Lil Wayne, and Bun B. He has released a total of ten studio albums and has been featured on numerous mixtapes and compilation albums.

In addition to his music career, Paul Wall is also known for his entrepreneurial ventures. He co-owns a jewelry company called Johnny Dang & Co., which specializes in custom diamond-encrusted grills.

He also has a clothing line called Po-Up Poet and has invested in several real estate projects.
Paul Wall is married and has two children.

He remains an active member of the hip-hop community and continues to release new music and collaborate with other artists.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Chamillionaire, whose real name is Hakeem Seriki, is an American rapper, entrepreneur, and investor.

He was born on November 28, 1979, in Washington, D.C., and raised in Houston, Texas.

Chamillionaire gained national attention with his 2005 single “Ridin’,” which featured Krayzie Bone and won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.

He released several successful albums throughout his career, including “The Sound of Revenge” in 2005 and “Ultimate Victory” in 2007.

Aside from his music career, Chamillionaire is also an accomplished entrepreneur and investor. 

He co-founded the record label Chamillitary Entertainment and has invested in several thriving tech startups, including Maker Studios (which was acquired by Disney) and Cruise Automation (which was acquired by General Motors).

He has also appeared as a guest judge on the TV show “Shark Tank.”

Chamillionaire is known for his socially conscious lyrics and commitment to giving back to his community.

He has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts, including supporting Hurricane Harvey relief in 2017.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Bun B is an American rapper born on March 19, 1973, in Port Arthur, Texas, whose real name is Bernard Freeman.

He first gained prominence as one half of the southern hip hop duo UGK, along with his partner Pimp C.

Bun B’s music is characterized by his distinctive voice, skilled rhymes, and a deep, gritty southern drawl.

He has been praised for his lyrical prowess and his ability to convey powerful messages through his music.

Over the years, Bun B has released several successful albums both as part of UGK and as a solo artist.

Some of his most popular songs include “Big Pimpin’,” “International Players Anthem (I Choose You),” and “Draped Up.”

In addition to his music career, Bun B has also been involved in various philanthropic and community initiatives.

He has worked with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and the United Negro College Fund, and he has also been involved in efforts to provide relief and assistance to victims of natural disasters.

Overall, Bun B is widely regarded as one of the most influential and respected rappers in the southern hip hop scene, and his impact on the genre continues to be felt today. 

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Big Hawk, also known as John Edward Hawkins, was an American rapper from Houston, Texas.

He was born on November 15, 1969, and grew up in Houston’s notorious Fifth Ward neighborhood.

Big Hawk was the older brother of fellow rapper Fat Pat, who was tragically killed in 1998.

He started his music career in the early 1990s as a member of the group Convicts.

He gained recognition as a solo artist in 2000 with the release of his debut album, “Under Hawk’s Wings.” The album featured collaborations with other Houston rappers like Lil’ Keke and Big Pokey.

In 2002, Big Hawk signed to independent record label Wreckshop Records and released his second album, “H.A.W.K. (Hakuna Matata).”

The album featured guest appearances from artists such as E.S.G., Big Pokey, and Lil’ Keke.

The album was critically acclaimed and helped to establish Big Hawk as one of Houston’s most respected rappers.

Tragically, on May 1, 2006, Big Hawk was shot and killed outside his Houston home.

He was 36 years old. His death was a massive loss for the Houston rap community, and he is remembered as one of the city’s most talented and influential rappers.

Despite his untimely death, Big Hawk’s music continues to be celebrated and appreciated by Houston rap and hip-hop fans. 

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Lil Flip, whose real name is Wesley Eric Weston Jr., is an American rapper from Houston, Texas.

He was born on March 3, 1981. Lil Flip rose to fame in the early 2000s with his debut album “The Leprechaun,” which was released independently in 2000 and later re-released by a major label in 2002.

His second album, “Undaground Legend,” was released in 2002 and featured the hit single “Game Over,” which became one of his signature songs. Lil Flip released ten studio albums, including “U Gotta Feel Me” in 2004 and “I Need Mine” in 2007.

Throughout his career, Lil Flip has collaborated with various artists, including T.I., Three 6 Mafia, Ludacris, and Mike Jones.

He has also appeared in films like “All About the Benjamins” and “State Property 2.”

In addition to his music career, Lil Flip has been involved in various business ventures, including his record label, Clover G Records, and a clothing and accessories line called “Clover Gear.”

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Mike Jones is an American rapper born on January 6, 1981, in Houston, Texas.

He began his music career in the late 1990s, independently releasing his first album, “Ballin’ Underground,” in 2003.

However, his second album, “Who Is Mike Jones?” released in 2005, brought him mainstream success.

The album debuted at number 3 on the US Billboard 200 chart and was certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

It included hit singles such as “Still Tippin'” and “Back Then,” which became popular nationwide.

Jones continued his success with his third album, “The American Dream,” released in 2007.

He also collaborated with artists such as T-Pain, Lil Wayne, and Paul Wall.

In addition to his music career, Jones has also appeared in several films and television shows, including “The Parker” and “Malibu’s Most Wanted.”

Mike Jones has remained true to his Houston roots throughout his career, often incorporating the city’s culture and slang into his music.

He continues to make music and perform live shows.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Lil Keke, whose real name is Marcus Lakee Edwards, is an American rapper from Houston, Texas. He was born on March 29, 1976.

He first gained recognition in the mid-1990s as a member of the Houston-based rap collective called Screwed Up Click.

He released his debut album “Don’t Mess wit Texas” in 1997, which was followed by several other successful albums such as “The Commission” and “Birds Fly South.”

Keke is known for his distinctive Southern rap style and has collaborated with many well-known artists in the rap industry, including DJ Screw, Fat Pat, and Bun B.

He has also worked with major record labels such as Swishahouse and Universal Records.

Throughout his career, Lil Keke has been recognized for his contributions to the Southern rap genre and nominated for several awards, including the BET Hip Hop Award for Best Independent Artist in 2008.

Lil Keke has continued to release music and tour and has maintained a loyal fanbase throughout his career.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Trae tha Truth is an American rapper and activist from Houston, Texas. He was born on July 3, 1980, and grew up in the city’s Northside neighborhood.

His real name is Frazier Othel Thompson III.

Trae tha Truth began his music career in the late 1990s as a member of the rap group Guerilla Maab, including rappers Z-Ro and Dougie D. 

In 2003, he released his debut solo album, “Losing Composure,” which received critical acclaim and helped establish him as a rising star in the Southern hip-hop scene.

Over the years, Trae tha Truth has released several successful albums, including “Tha Truth,” “Tha Truth, Pt. 2,” and “Hometown Hero.”

He has collaborated with many prominent hip-hop artists, such as T.I., Lil Wayne, and Wiz Khalifa, and has received widespread recognition for his socially conscious lyrics and advocacy work.

Trae tha Truth is known for his philanthropic efforts and community activism outside of music. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, he played a pivotal role in rescue and relief efforts in Houston, earning him the key to the city in 2018.

Throughout his career, Trae tha Truth has been recognized for his contributions to music and activism, receiving awards such as the Humanitarian of the Year Award from the National Black Caucus of State Legislators and the Change Maker Award from the Houston Area Urban League.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Cedric Hill, better known as E.S.G. among rap fans and followers, is an American rapper from Houston, Texas.

He was born on November 3, 1971, in the city’s South Park neighborhood, and grew up in a musical family. His father played guitar, and his mother was a singer.

E.S.G. began his music career in the early 1990s, and he quickly gained popularity for his unique rapping style, which combined elements of gangsta rap and Southern hip hop.

He released his debut album, “Ocean of Funk,” in 1994, which became a local hit in Houston.

In 1995, E.S.G. signed with the independent record label Wreckshop Records and released his second album, “Sailin’ Da South,” further establishing him as a prominent figure in the Houston hip-hop scene.

He went on to release several more successful albums, including “City Under Siege,” “Shinin’ & Grindin’,” and “Everyday Street Gangsta.”

Throughout his career, E.S.G. has collaborated with many notable artists in the hip-hop industry, such as Scarface, Bun B, and Slim Thug.

He is also known for coining the term “screwed and chopped,” which refers to the slowed-down and chopped-up style of remixing popular hip-hop songs that originated in Houston.

E.S.G. continues to make music and perform today and remains respected in the Houston hip-hop community.

His contributions to the genre have helped shape the sound and style of Southern rap and have significantly influenced younger generations of rappers.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube. 

Pimp C was an American rapper and producer born on December 29, 1973, in Port Arthur, Texas.

He was born Chad Lamont Butler and was one half of the rap duo UGK (Underground Kingz) along with Bun B.

Pimp C was known for his distinctive Southern drawl, lyrical prowess, and production skills, which helped define the sound of Southern hip hop in the 1990s and 2000s.

Pimp C began his music career in the late 1980s as a member of the group UGK, which released its debut album “The Southern Way” in 1988.

The group’s second album, “Super Tight,” was released in 1994 and featured the hit single “Front, Back & Side to Side.” UGK’s third album, “Ridin’ Dirty,” was released in 1996 and is widely considered a classic of Southern hip hop.

Pimp C’s career was interrupted in 2002 when he was sentenced to eight years for violating probation on a previous gun charge.

He was released from prison in 2005 and resumed his music career, releasing his first solo album, “The Sweet James Jones Stories,” later that year.

Tragically, Pimp C passed away on December 4, 2007, at 33. His death was caused by an accidental overdose of promethazine and codeine, commonly used to make the drink known as “lean” or “sizzurp.”

Despite his untimely death, Pimp C’s influence on Southern hip-hop continues to be felt to this day, and he is remembered as a true legend of the genre.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube. 

Devin the Dude is an American rapper, singer, and producer born on June 4, 1970.

At a young age, he moved to Houston, Texas, where he became interested in rap music.

Devin first gained recognition as a member of the hip-hop group Odd Squad member, including rappers Rob Quest and Jugg Mugg.

The group released their debut album, “Fadanuf Fa Erybody!!,” in 1994, which received critical acclaim.

In 1998, Devin released his solo debut album, “The Dude,” which was well-received by critics and helped establish his reputation as a solo artist.

He has since released a total of nine studio albums, including “Just Tryin’ ta Live,” “To tha X-Treme,” and “One for the Road.”

Devin is known for his laid-back, humorous, and sometimes explicit lyrics and his smooth and melodic delivery.

He has collaborated with many prominent artists in the hip-hop industry, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Nas, and Scarface.

Throughout his career, Devin has remained a popular and respected figure in the underground hip-hop scene.

He continues to tour and release new music, and his influence can be heard in the work of many of today’s up-and-coming rappers.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

K-Rino is an American rapper, producer, and CEO of the record label Black Book International.

He was born Eric Kaiser in Houston, Texas, on September 9, 1970. He began his music career in the late 1980s as part of the rap group Real Chill.

In 1993, K-Rino released his first solo album, “Stories from the Black Book,” which showcased his lyrical skill and socially conscious themes.

K-Rino is known for his intricate rhymes, intellectual wordplay, and thought-provoking lyrics that often touch on social justice, politics, and spirituality.

He has released over 30 albums throughout his career, including critically acclaimed projects such as “Time Traveler,” “Annihilation of the Evil Machine,” and “The Maven.”

In addition to his music career, K-Rino is also an author and motivational speaker.

He has written several books, including “The Science of the Gods” and “The Grand Deception,” which explore topics such as ancient civilizations, metaphysics, and spirituality.

K-Rino is regarded as one of the game’s most skilled and respected underground rappers.

He has been recognized for his contributions to hip-hop by organizations such as the Houston City Council and the Texas Music Coalition.

Despite his low profile, he has a dedicated fanbase and continues to release music and inspire listeners around the world.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube. 

Yungstar is an American rapper who was born on August 6, 1975, in Houston, Texas.

He gained recognition in the late 1990s for his hit single “Knockin’ Pictures Off Da Wall” which was released in 1998 on his debut album “Throwed Yung Playa.”

Yungstar’s interest in music started at an early age, and he began pursuing his passion for rap music as a teenager.

He first gained attention in the Houston rap scene as a “Street Military” group member before branching out as a solo artist.

After the success of “Knockin’ Pictures Off Da Wall,” Yungstar released his second album, “Throwed Y2K,” in 2000, featuring collaborations with famous Houston rappers such as Lil’ Keke and Big Moe.

Despite his early success, Yungstar’s career has been relatively quiet in recent years.

However, many fans and fellow artists still recognize his influence on the Houston rap scene and his contributions to the Southern hip-hop genre.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Chedda Da Connect is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter born in Houston, Texas, on May 6, 1989.

His real name is Kenneth Bailey, and he grew up in the Cloverland neighborhood of Houston.

He began his music career in 2013 and gained recognition with his hit single “Flicka Da Wrist,” which was released in 2014.

The song went viral and became a popular meme on social media, propelling Chedda Da Connect to fame.

He went on to sign a record deal with eOne Music and released his debut studio album, “Catchin’ Playz,” in 2015.

Chedda Da Connect has collaborated with several other artists in the industry, including Kevin Gates, Lil Boosie, and T-Wayne.

He is known for his unique flow, which blends trap and southern hip-hop elements.

In addition to his music career, Chedda Da Connect is also involved in philanthropic work.

He has organized several events to support the Houston community, including a turkey drive to provide meals to needy families during Thanksgiving.

As of 2021, Chedda Da Connect has released several mixtapes, singles, and one studio album and continues to work on new music.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.

Sauce Walka, whose real name is Albert Walker Mondane, is an American rapper and songwriter born on June 29, 1990, in Houston, Texas.

He is best known for his unique style of rapping and his affiliation with the rap group “The Sauce Factory.”

Sauce Walka began his music career in 2012, releasing his first mixtape titled “Holy Sauce.”

He gained more attention in 2015 when he released his single “Wack 2 Wack,” which went viral and helped him gain a following.

He has since released several successful mixtapes and albums, including “Sorry four the Sauce,” “Sauce Ghetto Gospel,” and “Drip God.”

Sauce Walka’s music is known for its raw, unapologetic style, and his lyrics often touch on topics such as street life, drugs, and money.

He has collaborated with several famous rappers, including Travis Scott, Lil Uzi Vert, and XXXTentacion.

Aside from his music career, Sauce Walka is known for his fashion sense, often sporting unique and flamboyant outfits.

He has also been involved in controversies throughout his career, including feuds with other rappers and legal issues.

Despite these controversies, Sauce Walka remains a popular and influential figure in the rap scene, with a loyal fanbase and several successful collaborations and releases under his belt.

We can listen to his songs on Apple Music and Deezer. Also, watch the video on Youtube.