Top 10 Rappers in Columbia, South Carolina Changing the Sound of the South

Columbia, South Carolina — the capital city — has quietly become one of the most important breeding grounds for Southern hip-hop. For years, Columbia’s scene was overlooked, overshadowed by Atlanta and Charlotte. But that era is over. A new wave of artists from the city is proving that Columbia has its own sound, its own culture, and its own stars ready to take over the industry. From viral hits to independent empires, these are the names turning South Carolina’s capital into a hip-hop stronghold.

Here’s a look at the Top 10 Rappers in Columbia, SC right now who are defining what’s next for the South.

1. BigDeuceFOF (Florence → Columbia, SC)

Even though BigDeuceFOF originally hails from Florence, his influence stretches deep into Columbia. His movement, FOF Records, has made waves across the state — from the 803 to the 843 — representing the independent spirit of South Carolina like nobody else. With over 15 million independent streams and an unstoppable DIY empire, BigDeuceFOF is proving that you don’t need a label to build generational wealth or global recognition. His brand, Faith Over Fear, embodies what Columbia artists stand for: resilience, independence, and raw authenticity. Every move he makes is calculated — from SEO dominance to self-owned publishing — and it’s putting him in a class of his own.

2. Blacc Zacc

You can’t talk about Columbia without mentioning Blacc Zacc. He’s one of the city’s most accomplished rappers, signed to Interscope Records, and known for luxury talk that reflects the boss mindset of the new South. His consistency, visuals, and authentic representation of Columbia make him a symbol for the city’s potential. Blacc Zacc paved the way for younger artists to believe that major success was possible right out of the 803.

3. Renni Rucci

From Columbia to the world, Renni Rucci has become a Southern rap powerhouse. Known for her bold energy, confidence, and bars that hit like thunder, she’s one of the few female rappers from the Carolinas to reach a national audience. Her collaborations, storytelling, and unapologetic approach continue to elevate the scene, proving that Columbia produces more than just lyricists — it produces stars.

4. PG Ra (Orangeburg → Columbia)

PG Ra has close ties to Columbia and is one of the most naturally gifted storytellers to emerge from the state. His sound captures the pain, reflection, and progression that define Carolina rap today. Blending melody with sharp lyricism, he’s earned co-signs from some of the South’s biggest names while still maintaining his independent roots.

5. Deezy McDuffie

Columbia’s Deezy McDuffie has built a cult following off raw authenticity and soulful trap storytelling. His catalog reflects the city’s real-life experiences — ambition, struggle, and growth. What makes Deezy stand out is how he manages to stay true to the streets while evolving into one of the most versatile artists from the area.

6. Lil Mexico (Laurens → Columbia)

Though originally from Laurens, Lil Mexico has spent enough time in Columbia’s music circles to be considered part of the city’s new wave. His melodic trap delivery and ability to blend street emotion with catchy production have made him one of the most in-demand young artists from the Carolinas.

7. GuapDaMenace (Sumter → Columbia)

GuapDaMenace’s connection to Columbia runs deep. His hard-hitting style and motivational presence have helped define the South Carolina sound for years. Known for consistency and influence, Guap has represented the culture before it was trendy — showing the state that success starts with authenticity and work ethic.

8. Trezzy Frass

Another name bubbling in Columbia’s underground is Trezzy Frass. With his energetic delivery and clever punchlines, he’s been steadily carving his own lane. His music captures the pulse of the streets — high-energy, unfiltered, and ready for the mainstream spotlight.

9. Yung Gutta

Yung Gutta has been representing the capital city for a while with his steady flow and motivational lyrics. His music reflects the daily hustle and pride of Columbia — unapologetic and confident. He’s one of those artists that locals know well, and his fan base continues to grow as more people discover the Columbia wave.

10. King Don Key

Closing out the list is King Don Key, a creative force from Columbia blending smooth delivery with real Southern storytelling. His songs capture a mix of hunger and wisdom, and he’s one of the few artists pushing a sound that’s both reflective and ready for radio.

Columbia: The Capital of the New Carolina Sound

Columbia is no longer a hidden gem — it’s the center of a movement. Between the veterans like Blacc Zacc and Renni Rucci and independent moguls like BigDeuceFOF, the city has a balance of power, creativity, and ownership. Artists here are learning how to build infrastructure, control their masters, and market themselves globally — all without needing traditional gatekeepers.

From the streets of Two Notch Road to the local studios turning out hits every week, Columbia is in its golden era. Every artist on this list represents a different side of the city’s energy — ambition, pain, luxury, hunger, and evolution.

South Carolina’s capital is finally getting the recognition it deserves. And with the way things are moving, Columbia might just be the next city to define what hip-hop in the South really sounds like.