UK-born, Canadian-raised, and undeniably destined for greatness, 80purppp is the name on everyone’s lips. Born with deep roots in Ghana and a classical piano foundation, his musical journey began at just four years old. But it wasn’t until he made the move to Edmonton, Alberta, that his artistic identity truly began to take shape.
Influenced by a broad spectrum of artists like Mac Miller, XXXTentacion, Sampha, and Drake, 80purppp’s sound is a mosaic of genres, one that feels both fresh and familiar, pulling elements from hip-hop, soul, and alternative music. With a sound that effortlessly blends hip-hop, soul, and everything in between, he’s rapidly making waves on the global music scene. His ability to mix genres with ease and authenticity has garnered him millions of streams and a loyal fanbase. But the journey’s just beginning. On January 31, he’s dropping Hotel Lobby and Elevator Freestyle a pair of tracks that promise to disrupt the scene. If you thought you had him figured out, think again. This is 80purppp’s next chapter, and it’s unlike anything you’ve heard before.
With over 6 million monthly listeners on Spotify, 80purppp’s breakout hit Hex didn’t just top the charts; it rewrote the rulebook. Achieving RIAA Gold certification in both the U.S. and Canada, the track has racked up over 400 million streams, inching ever closer to Platinum. Yet, beyond the figures, it’s the resonance of his music that truly sets him apart. Tracks like Hex and Liquorice have found their way onto tastemaker playlists like Mood Ring and Tear Drop. Meanwhile, his collaborations with Grammy-winning producer Nascent, known for his work with renowned artists like SZA, Brent Faiyaz, or Kanye West, and features with rising stars like MARO and ARDN reflect a versatility that goes far beyond the mainstream.
But 80purppp’s influence extends far beyond the studio. His live performances bring an entirely new dimension to his artistry; his electrifying set at SXSW 2023 was a glimpse of his raw energy, proving that his on-stage presence is every bit as magnetic as his recordings. With each new track, his sound grows sharper, blending his Ghanaian heritage with modern, genre-defying elements that push music’s boundaries. Far from just a rising star, 80purppp is a trailblazer, pushing boundaries and reimagining the future of hip-hop and alternative music.