Hiphop & Rap in Bristol

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Bristol's Hiphop Scene

Bristol’s Hiphop Explosion in 2022?

Hip-hop is big in Bristol in 2022, but it’s never really gone away. Acts like the High Breed bring meaning back to hip-hop in the Bristol underground scene, which some Bristol rap artists have cited as limiting on their chance of success (as compared to their London hip-hop rivals). The shadow of Bristol trip-hop still looms large, with Massive Attack and Tricky being the defining moment for some (and anything else that doesn’t conform to this is swept aside). Hip-hop nights in Bristol set to redefine this, nights booking international hip-hop artists like Next Up and Raise the Bar (who combine hip-hop and spoken word).

It is often said that graffiti is the written expression of hiphop and a key element in hiphop cuture, however the huge quantity of graffiti and comparatively small amount of hiphop in Bristol suggests otherwise... While Bristol is certainly a key stopover for big rap and hiphop tours with artists like De La Soul and Wu Tang Clan playing Bristol's big venues, smaller hiphop events are less prominent.

Although not exclusively hiphop venues it's worth checking the listings for The LAB club, Mr Wolfs and The Croft. Metropolis has emerged as reliable hiphop venue with past guests including Ugly Duckling, Peanut Butter Wolf and Arrested Development. The Contraband Sessions held at The Golden Lion on Gloucester Road every Wednesday can be a good place to find free, Bristolian hiphop gigs.

Buy tickets for hiphop events in Bristol

Our recent hiphop recommendations

Cult live afro-house dance sensations Afriquoi charmed the world with their fusion of Gambian kora, Congolese guitar, Mandinka percussion and infectious electronics. 100% essential and uplifting experience for all human souls into Francis Bebey, Ata Kak / Awesome Tapes From Africa, UK Funky, The Busy Twist, Onipa, K.O.G. Afriquoi + Liz Ikamba at The Lantern.

Sell out warning! Easily the finest vocalist of the rubadub revival - Kiko lays on the lovers rock with vintage Studio One vibes courtesy of local hornstars Run Come Down plus an 80s dancehall swagger with 21st century finesse. He’s the complete roots package FFO: Sugar Minott, Johnny Clarke, Ini Kamoze, Joe York, Aleighcia Scott. Kiko Bun with Run Come Down at The Jam Jar.

Twende called it! Soulbee’s first big headline show’s a testament to the weight of their yet-to-be-released bass-heavy neo-soul and the waves it’s been making amongst those that know. Slotting in niceley alongside Eva Penney’s emotionally charged singer-songwriter delights, this is one-to-watch FFO: Erykah Badu, Anderson Paak, MĀDŁY, August etc. A cozy night of Soulful music from some of Bristol's up and coming Musicians.

The arch conjurer of fiercely tight afrobeat, globetrotting hiphop and upful high-life grooves. Onipa’s lead vocalist and frequent collaborator with Nubiyan Twist, K.O.G’s vocal dexterity and effusive energy is pure heat from start to finish. Catch him in a special appearance with rising Ghanian vocalist Lamisi and Bristol’s leading wordsmith Dizraeli. “I view MUSIC as a major WEAPON in the BATTLEFIELD for PEACE of MIND in the world” – K.O.G

What our editors say

“Kruder & Dorfmeister is an Austrian duo, known for their trip hop/downtempo remixes of pop, hip hop and drum and bass songs. This year, they’re celebrating the 25th anniversary, of iconic album ‘The K&D Sessions’, a defining soundtrack of the late ’90s.”
From: The K&D Sessions

“To listen to Sevenyearwaitinglist's releases will only give you a hint of what their live set has in store. Yes, you'll be treated to intense bursts of chaotic cyber-grind, but you'll get them weaved together with snatches of pop bangers, hip hop anthems, and whatever else they feel like screaming their way through.”
From: Monochrome Festival of Ugly Music 2025

“The trio are known best for their explosive, yet silky sound permeating jazz, R&B, hip hop and more; evidenced through their extensive collection of online recordings, reels and now a fully-fledged debut album.”
From: Moses Yoofee Trio

“Shaped through a love for hip hop, britpop, psych and cinema; PleasureInc. is the genre-fluid musical brainchild of brothers Jonny Silver and Kenny Pleasures. The duo and their band of goons are out to confuse you into a good time. It’s Talking-Heads-make-love-to-Beastie-Boys-core. Considered as it is loose.. hard as it is playful… intensely blasé, always.”
From: Pleasure Inc

“Jimi Needles (Fingerlickin') & X-Ray Ted (Bombstrikes) are joining us back in the Lost & Grounded taproom for a b2b DJ set blending funk, disco, hip-hop and breaks. Expect a feel-good journey through soul gems, re-remembered hip hop classics and serious cut-and-paste antics while you kick back. Beers, Burgers & Beats!”
From: Jimi Needles & X-Ray Ted - 4 Deck Set