Future of Belgian hip-hop
In 2016, Couleur Café created Niveau4, a one-of-a-kind hip hop show, uniting the best upcoming rappers from Brussels, Flanders and Wallonia. From Roméo Elvis and Coely over Zwangere Guy to ISHA, Brihang and Miss Angel; the first four editions allowed a bunch of artists to present themselves to music lovers from all over the country and created long-lasting friendships between the rappers.
Like in 2019, Niveau4 will once again reunite promising hip-hop and R&B artists with two jazz bands! In short, expect nothing less than the biggest, baddest and boldest show possible. Here are the main actors.
Two albums, many loosies, ep’s, Hellraiser events and two productions for Zwangere Guy: Rare Akuma is without any doubt one of the Belgian artists you need to discover. With his heavy basslines and screaming raps - labeled as ‘ragecore’ - this young Antwerp native easily reached millions of streams and has fans from America to all over Europe.
In 2018, he started to get serious about music and in 2019 he posted his very first freestyle on Instagram. Roswein is a young artist from Brussels, who one day decided to go 100% for music. His passion allowed him to meet people who are as passionate as he is, and today he continues with his collective O'B League, convinced that the work done will one day pay off.
This next young talent is one to be watched. Shaka Shams recently won StuBru’s prestigiuous music contest De Nieuwe Lichting with Black Metal Rebel, a rock/hiphop combo that gives a hell of a kick. Growing up in Belgium, frequently staying in the UK and having South African roots, Shaka Shams comes from many places and so does his inspiration. Throw on his very recognizable nostalgic voice and you get that unique Shaka Sound.
Musician, actress and singer Dushime is the second promising talent on this list. This young singer of Rwandan origin, offers music that mixes styles and sound experiments with a unique voice that carries you away with a powerful and soothing energy.
Narko T pose les pieds là où tu poses tes oreilles, is what this young rap trio from Namur is all about. They recently released the smashing new banger Bombarde and promise to set Couleur Café's stage on fire. Don't miss it!
STACE is the rising star of the neo-soul scene. The French-born Stacy Claire introduces us to a special place of vulnerability, authenticity, and femininity. She released her first EP Green Onyx in January. This intimate, emotional and dynamic release will certainly lead to a bright future.
This rough diamond from Antwerp was inevitable for Niveau4. RonnyHuana is a rapper/producer with Moroccan roots who is certainly no stranger to fans of Stikstof and Zwangere Guy. He has been the support act for both of them a number of times and has now also worked with them for the single Achterban. With his straightforward lyrics, self-produced dark beats and smooth flow, this real DIYer is guaranteed to set Couleur Café on fire.
A saxophonist, a drummer, a bass player and a guitarist create a delicious mix of electronic music with hip-hop influences, rock and a good dose of jazz. No better group in Brussels than Commander Spoon to conquer an audience! In 2019, they gave the best of themselves with Niveau4 and that is why we welcome them again this year.
These young 'self-sampling' fanatics provided the atmosphere at Niveau4’s performance in 2019. They play their completely self-made tracks like a DJ would, inspired by Flying Lotus, Aphex Twin and Jonwayne. Together with Commander Spoon they form the musical backbone of Niveau4. Curious as to what they can do together? Check their latest single Flock: Episode 1, go check it out!
