Meet Smino's Dynamic Opening Acts: EARTHGANG and Phoelix [NEW ARTIST DISCOVERY]
This spring, Smino will embark on his Hoopti Tour presented by Ones To Watch and Zero Fatigue. But he's not on this journey alone; the dynamic rapper is bringing two phenomenal openers along with him. EARTHGANG and Phoelix have different styles, but both acts's witty lyrics and electrifying rap beats will impress audiences across the country.
EARTHGANG:
EARTHGANG is a powerful rap duo created by Johnny Venus and WowGr8 during their high school days. They spent their long college nights recording in their dorm rooms and collaborating with local producers, until they were finally discovered and signed by J. Cole. They refer to their sound as "Southern-fried soul," and it might be the most spot-on self-description we've ever heard. Their tracks range from playful and upbeat to more somber and deeper lyrics which comment on political issues like race and equality.
Their new single "Proud of U" featuring Young Thug is one of the first songs from their upcoming debut full length album, Mirrorland. The album is something EARTHGANG has feverishly worked on over the past year.
This year, EARTHGANG is opening for Billie Eilish on her sold out Where's My Mind European tour before they embark on the Hoopti tour.
Get familiar with EARTHGANG below:
Phoelix:
Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, Phoelix believed that he never fit in anywhere. He felt that people in his hometown always looked at him as a young black man that didn't belong, and when he was in the city, he was told he was too suburban.
Channeling that frustration, he began producing music as a teenager. He was soon working for artists like Noname, Saba and even Smino. But when Phoelix turned 20, he decided to start writing, producing and singing his own songs. In 2017, he released his debut EP, GSPL. Pronounced gospel, the EP contains lyrics that ingeniously reference the Bible, but also announces to Phoelix's family, friends and fans that his identity of "the pastor's son" does not define him.
Phoelix's debut album, TEMPO, dropped in early 2018 and is a collection of 18 rap songs all with heavy funk and R&B influences.
Listen to Phoelix below:
Pick up your tickets to Smino's Hoopti Tour piresented by Ones To Watch here.