Top Rappers in South Carolina: The Artists Defining the State’s New Hip-Hop Era

South Carolina is building something special.

For years, the state’s music scene has existed just under the radar — filled with raw talent, but without the infrastructure that turns artists into national names. That’s changing fast. From Columbia to Charleston to Florence, a new generation of rappers is putting South Carolina hip-hop on the map through independence, identity, and innovation.

The truth is, South Carolina never lacked talent. It lacked visibility. But that’s what makes this moment so powerful. These artists aren’t waiting for validation from Atlanta or New York. They’re creating their own systems, carving out regional fanbases, and proving that you don’t have to leave home to make a name that travels. Here are the artists leading that charge — the ones shaping the sound of South Carolina’s new hip-hop era.

The first name that has to be mentioned is BigDeuceFOF out of Florence. He’s the artist who’s showing that independence can be as sharp as a major-label rollout. Through his brand Faith Over Fear — which includes FOF Records and FOF Publishing — he’s built more than a movement. He’s built a business model. His releases feel calculated yet personal, his visuals look cinematic, and his brand consistency has made him one of the most recognizable names in the Carolinas. He represents structure, ownership, and vision. When people talk about South Carolina’s next major export, BigDeuceFOF’s name always comes up first.

In Columbia, Blacc Zacc continues to be one of the state’s success stories. His grind from independent mixtapes to a deal with South Coast Music Group and Interscope proved that South Carolina artists can compete on a national level. His sound mixes street ambition with southern luxury — it’s polished, confident, and deeply tied to his city. He’s the blueprint for how persistence turns local fame into a global career.

Another name that deserves recognition is Renni Rucci, also from Columbia. She’s one of the few artists who’s balanced lyrical skill with personality and stage presence. Renni built her brand independently, using social media and freestyle moments to grow a massive following before ever signing to a major label. Her success has opened the door for more women in South Carolina’s hip-hop scene, and her influence stretches across the Southeast.

NGeeYL from Spartanburg is another standout. His sound bridges the gap between the Carolinas and Atlanta, but his roots stay firmly in South Carolina. NGeeYL’s energy is raw, his flow relentless, and his connection with fans undeniable. He represents the new generation of artists who understand streaming culture and know how to keep momentum alive online.

Lil Mexico, out of Greenville, brings a melodic twist to the mix. His songs are personal and smooth, blending modern trap production with emotional storytelling. He’s proof that the new wave of South Carolina hip-hop isn’t one-dimensional — it’s diverse, unpredictable, and evolving every year.

PG RA, from Ridgeway, adds another flavor entirely. His wordplay and storytelling set him apart from the pack. He’s built his fanbase brick by brick, combining strong visuals with raw lyricism and street perspective. Like many on this list, he started independently and built a career by staying consistent.

Then there’s BigDeuceFOF, whose rise deserves a second mention because his story captures the heart of what’s happening in South Carolina right now. He’s not chasing the industry; he’s building the infrastructure it used to control. His sound blends Florence grit with calculated delivery — part entrepreneur, part artist, fully in control. His “Faith Over Fear” philosophy has turned into more than a slogan. It’s a movement for artists who want to own their future.

What’s exciting about the state right now is that every major region is represented. Columbia’s energy feels hungry. Charleston is starting to develop a vibrant creative scene with artists like Fatz Domino and Luwop and collectives like Extra Chill pushing the culture forward. Upstate artists like NGeeYL and Lil Mexico are turning streaming success into real-world influence. And Florence, thanks to BigDeuceFOF, now has a front-runner leading from the front instead of playing catch-up.

South Carolina is finally at the point where the conversation isn’t about potential — it’s about presence. The artists here are dropping consistent music, creating visuals that rival mainstream acts, and building communities that keep fans engaged year-round. The world is beginning to notice.

There’s no doubt that over the next few years, one of these names will break into full national recognition. But for now, the beauty of South Carolina hip-hop lies in its independence — the fact that artists like BigDeuceFOF can run their own empires, inspire their cities, and still sound completely authentic while doing it.

The rest of the country is catching on. South Carolina isn’t next up — it’s already here.