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Hip-hop has always been more than just music—it’s a lifeline, a form of self-expression, and a way to rise above struggles. The underground scene is filled with voices that deserve to be heard, artists whose journeys reflect resilience, passion, and raw storytelling.
Among them are three standout musicians making waves on BandLab: SAM, JRS-One, and Dee aka $tone aka Game Changer. Each of them brings something unique to the table, from freestyle mastery to conscious rap to deeply emotional storytelling.
SAM: The Art of Freestyle and Emotional Storytelling BandLab: @swilliraps
For Samuel Williams, aka SAM, music started as a childhood escape—a way to express emotions he couldn’t share elsewhere. Growing up in Blackburn, Lancashire, he honed his rapping skills over the years, developing a fluid, adaptable flow that allows him to freestyle with ease. But what sets him apart isn’t just his technical ability; it’s the emotional weight behind every lyric.
SAM’s journey took a defining turn when he lost his grandmother, who had been his biggest support system. That loss pushed him to take music more seriously, transforming his grief into art. He doesn’t rap for fame—he does it because music is the one place where he can be his true self.
With influences like Eminem, Wu-Tang Clan, Biggie, Tupac, and NF, SAM’s music combines classic hip-hop energy with modern storytelling. His versatility means he can rap over any beat, but his central message remains clear: acceptance, growth, and the power of learning from mistakes. He sees music as a way to connect, to let people know they’re not alone in their struggles.
His career highlights so far? Being recognized in Wavy Music Magazine after entering the Wavy Rap Battle #3—a testament to his growing presence in the underground hip-hop scene.
JRS-One: Conscious Rhymes and the Spirit of Hip-Hop BandLab: @straightfromdivine
For JRS-One, hip-hop isn’t just music—it’s a way of life. “I can’t think of one thing hip-hop can’t help with,” he says. His sound is deeply rooted in the original culture of peace, love, unity, and fun, a reminder of what hip-hop was meant to be before commercial influences took over.
Growing up, he never imagined himself making music—until he found confidence. Once he picked up the mic, he never looked back. His style is as fluid as it is conscious, switching between cocky, slick flows reminiscent of Biggie to deep, introspective bars in the vein of KRS-One. In his words, he’s a “conscious rapper first”, aiming to uplift, educate, and provoke thought through his music.
His biggest inspirations? Eminem, KRS-One, Nahko Bear, Underachievers, and Dax. He respects Dax’s lyrical ability, especially his use of quadruple entendres, and draws from Nahko Bear’s ability to heal through music.
When it comes to writing, JRS-One doesn’t overthink it. He hears a beat, picks a topic, and lets the pen do the rest. “I could write five songs in a day if I wanted,” he says, emphasizing his intuitive approach to lyricism. He doesn’t chase fame—he’s in it for the art and the chance to make a real impact.
Right now, he’s still waiting for his biggest highlight, but one thing’s for sure—his moment is coming.
Dee aka $tone aka Game Changer: Turning Pain Into Music BandLab: @stone701
For Derrick Brinson, aka Dee aka $tone aka Game Changer, music isn’t just a passion —it’s therapy. His life has been full of ups and downs, but through it all, music has been the one thing that never left him.
His journey wasn’t easy. He spent years on the streets, trying to survive day to day. But everything changed when he became a father. That moment forced him to think differently, to fight for something bigger than himself. When his daughter moved to Alabama with her mother, it broke him. At first, he still saw her in the summers. But then, the visits stopped. The pain of losing his connection with his daughter became the driving force behind his music.
Unlike many rappers, Dee doesn’t stick to just one genre. His sound is a blend of hip- hop, emo rap, rock, and grunge, influenced by Tupac, Biggie, Metallica, The Doors, Nirvana, 2 Chainz, and Saint Jhn. He channels pain, hope, and regret into his lyrics, using his platform to tell stories that resonate with those who feel lost or overlooked.
His writing process? It all started with poetry—originally as a way to win back a girl. But over time, he realized those words could become powerful lyrics. Now, every song he writes is a reflection of his struggles, his regrets, and his hope for something better.
Even without a long list of accolades, Dee knows the real reward is the messages he receives from fans. People have told him that his music helped them through dark times, that it made them cry, or even saved their lives. For him, that’s what matters most —his music is no longer just his own. It belongs to everyone who needs to hear it.
Final Thoughts: The Future of These Rising Artists
Each of these artists—SAM, JRS-One, and Dee aka $tone aka Game Changer—brings
something unique to the world of hip-hop.
SAM uses his versatility and freestyle skills to create emotionally powerful music about loss, acceptance, and self-expression.
JRS-One stays true to conscious rap, honoring hip-hop’s original culture while crafting lyrical stories that challenge and inspire.
Dee aka $tone aka Game Changer blends genres and turns personal pain into powerful, deeply relatable songs.
As they continue making waves on BandLab and beyond, one thing is clear: their stories are just beginning. Keep an eye out—because these voices are only getting louder.
