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The Bar Exam finale brings six emerging Baltimore artists to M&T Bank Exchange tonight after a 16-week KEYS Empowers development program.

The Womack Sisters Debut Album arrives August 14 with nine songs that connect gospel roots, classic soul and a new generation’s point of view.

The first 2026 XXL Freshman cypher has arrived, moving the annual conversation from who was selected to what each artist can actually do with the microphone. XXL’s public rollout began Monday with artists from the new class performing over original production and DJ Drama returning as part of the presentation. The initial group includes Chris Patrick, Hurricane Wisdom, Miles Minnick and several other developing rappers from different regional and stylistic backgrounds. The cy

Youth can create attention in hip-hop, but it cannot sustain a career by itself. Star Bandz is beginning the more difficult stage: turning early momentum into an identity strong enough to grow with her. The Chicago rapper was recently included in a 2026 hip-hop roundtable examining the direction of the genre alongside several developing artists. The conversation positioned her within a generation thinking seriously about authenticity, audience attention and what separates tem

Every great artist begins with a moment of discovery, and Elmiene is quickly becoming one of the names R&B fans should have on their radar. The British-Sudanese singer-songwriter has earned growing recognition for his soulful vocals, emotionally rich songwriting, and understated production style. Rather than relying on trends, Elmiene's music focuses on vulnerability, authenticity, and timeless musicianship—qualities that have resonated with both critics and listeners. His so