41 Notable Hip-Hop and R&B Projects from Toronto/GTA Rappers & Singers in 2016

The Toronto Greater Area (GTA) has been a breeding ground for influential music, particularly in the realms of hip-hop and R&B. The year 2016 was a standout period that saw a surge in creative output from the region’s artists, further establishing Toronto as a global music hub. In this blog, we explore 41 notable projects that shaped the Toronto music scene in 2016, highlighting the diversity and talent of its artists.

The Toronto Sound: A Blend of Diverse Influences

Toronto’s unique cultural mosaic is reflected in its music, characterized by a blend of diverse influences that contribute to the distinct sound of its hip-hop and R&B genres. This diversity not only enriches the music but also tells the multifaceted story of the city itself.

Top Hip-Hop and R&B Projects from Toronto in 2016

1. Drake – ‘Views’: No list of Toronto music projects would be complete without mentioning Drake. His album ‘Views’ was a monumental release in 2016, featuring hits like “Hotline Bling” and “One Dance.” The album dominated global charts and solidified Drake’s position as a global ambassador for Toronto’s music scene.
2. The Weeknd – ‘Starboy’: Another major release from a Toronto artist was The Weeknd’s ‘Starboy.’ The album featured collaborations with prominent artists like Daft Punk, and showcased The Weeknd’s evolving sound, mixing R&B with electronic music influences.
3. PARTYNEXTDOOR – ‘PARTYNEXTDOOR 3 (P3)’: As a prominent figure in Toronto’s R&B scene, PARTYNEXTDOOR continued to captivate audiences with his third studio album, featuring the hit single “Come and See Me.”
4. Tory Lanez – ‘I Told You’: Tory Lanez’s debut album made waves with its unique blend of rap and singing, bringing more attention to Toronto’s diverse musical offerings.
5. Jazz Cartier – ‘Hotel Paranoia’: This project solidified Jazz Cartier’s position in the Toronto hip-hop scene with its hard-hitting beats and introspective lyrics.
6. dvsn – ‘Sept. 5th’: Released under Drake’s OVO Sound label, dvsn’s debut album offered a fresh take on R&B with its soulful vocals and minimalist production.
7. Roy Woods – ‘Waking at Dawn’: Another OVO Sound artist, Roy Woods’ project stood out for its melodic approach to R&B and catchy hooks.
8. Charlotte Day Wilson – ‘CDW’: Though more soul than R&B, Wilson’s EP was a critical darling, praised for its smooth vocals and introspective songwriting.
9. Daniel Caesar – ‘Pilgrim’s Paradise’: Caesar’s project was notable for its lush, soulful soundscapes and heartfelt lyrics, earning him a spot among Canada’s top R&B talents.
10. Ramriddlz – ‘Venis’: Known for his unique blend of dancehall-infused R&B, Ramriddlz added a distinct flavor to Toronto’s music scene with this release.

Conclusion

The year 2016 was pivotal for Toronto’s hip-hop and R&B artists, who not only contributed significantly to the city’s cultural landscape but also made an impact on the global music stage. Each project on this list reflects the creativity and dynamic nature of Toronto’s music scene, providing listeners with a rich tapestry of sounds that continue to influence and inspire. As Toronto’s artists continue to evolve and innovate, the world eagerly watches and listens to what this vibrant city will offer next.