Age: 22

Last Year's Rank: N/A

In 2017, we ranked Kevin Abstract's verse on Brockhampton's "JUNKY" No. 12 on our list of the best rap verses of the year. A year later, it holds up as the best example of Abstract's credentials as a rapper. The 22-year-old spits with the confidence of a seasoned vet, a serious feat for someone whose identity as a young, black, gay man makes him a rarity in the hip-hop community. He consistently proves that he belongs right where he is, though, even at the outrageous rate at which Brockhampton releases music (three albums in 2017 and this year's Iridescence). Despite the sentiments expressed on the most recent project's "WEIGHT"—"I've been feeling defeated, like I'm the worst in the boy band"—rest assured that Abstract is still bringing the heat in 2018. His dedication to shaking things up is necessary in this industry, and he'll undoubtedly continue to shine. —Carolyn Bernucca