Downsyde Share The Best 10 Aussie Hip Hop Acts Of The Last Decade

At the start of the month Perth hip hop collective, Downsyde released their fifth studio album, ClassicILL. It's their first release in ten years, so to celebrate the crew got together to compile their ten favourite Aussie hip hop acts throughout the last decade.

2017 — ab original

"These dudes have taken over, spitting real shit about real issues that are done in a take no prisoners delivery. They not only represent a much needed voice in Australia but also write amazing songs. Political and social rhymes are not dead, in the hands of these boys it will bring about change."

2016 — kerser

"Sydney's sick c**t is a king amongst his massive loyal fanbase. Releasing album after album at number one in the country without radio or mainstream support, you have to respect the talented MC's hussle. Been a Downsyde fan since he was a teenger too, respect."

2015 — remi & sampa the great

"Remi and Sampa have ushered in a new era of authentic Australian hiphop that represents our culture in a universal way. Both have rhymes that have effortless flow and a delivery that invites you to listen but are individual in their approach and style. Both work with incredible producers and are genuine rising stars. Go get it!"

2014 — mantra

"Melbourne MC with an effortless flow that twists and turns with a hypnotic cadence. Big fan of all his work and is great bloke to top it all off. Get your ears round his work, incredible."

2013 — funkoars

"These boys share a love of 'wild out' beats like Downsyde. One of the best live shows in Australia, period. All 3 boys hold down the mike with razor sharp skill. Go see them live!"

2012 — trem

"The Omega Man is a one man army. Flow is impeccable, wordplay is second to none and keeps his feet firmly planted in the underground. Respect the man."

2011 — hunter

"An MC who is a part of our legendary crew Syllabolix, but sadly lost his life to cancer. He had one of the first songs to blow up on triple j back in the day which Opt produced called Jam Roll. He went on to write some classic records and be a huge supporter of Australian hip hop. Rest in paradise Hunts."

2010 — hilltop hoods

"Where do you start, these guys have taken over and never looked back. Hardworking, talented and just write hit after hit after hit. Saw recently they have been selling out shows in Europe and the US. We actually bought Hilltops out West for their first show out of Adelaide. Good mates too."

2009 — multiple (too hard to pick just one)

"Lazy Grey Is an iconic MC/Producer with an unmistakable style, flow and production sound. On or Off Tap was a CD, Hunter and all of us SBX bredren played repeatedly. Queensland King!/ Koolism, love Hau's laidback flow and iconic chilled tone. Danilesun has always had really dope original beats too. Hau featured on When The Dust Settles on a track called Don't You Know. Homies from way back."

2008 — drapht

"We are all best mates and have all grown up together as part of the Syllabolix Crew out west. It's been inspiring watch Drapht blow the fuck up. Crafts amazing songs and is hands down one in a class of his own. Flow, cadence, melody, hooks he has it all."

2007 — layla

"Is pure fire, her delivery is always intense and 'in your face'. Layla's lyrics are self reflective, strong and often challenge all in one verse. One of the dopest MC's to come out of our Syllabolix crew. Don't sleep."