OGNEILJAY

Represents: Broward County

OGNEILJAY is coming into the inaugural class with a clear vision for where he wants his music to go. The Broward County artist describes his sound as something designed to transcend music and the arts.

In his submission, OGNEILJAY put it simply: “I’m the best out of Florida. Next: the world.”

Check out OGNEILJAY’s music here.

CASHE

Represents: Broward County

CASHE brings experience, consistency and a track record of performing both locally and beyond South Florida. The Miami-Dade artist has appeared on 99 JAMZ, 103.5 The Beat and Hot 105 and has performed across the country and internationally.

In the submission, CASHE pointed to consistency and originality as key parts of the journey, while describing the music as carrying a positive message meant to motivate others to pursue their goals.

Check out CASHE’s music here.

TwanTheDawn

Represents: Liberty City, Miami

For TwanTheDawn, representing Miami is at the center of the music. The Liberty City artist says his work speaks for itself and represents “everything that Miami stands for.”

That connection to Miami is part of what makes TwanTheDawn a member of the inaugural 305 On The Rise class.

Check out TwanTheDawn’s music here.

Salam The Poet

Represents: Broward and Miami-Dade, by way of Chicago

Salam The Poet’s South Florida story is one of finding community and becoming part of it. Originally from Chicago, the artist describes the journey from transplant to resident and community pillar.

In the submission, Salam The Poet said the 305 gave him a sense of agency and a place to find his “tribe,” while allowing him to continue creating art and contributing to communities both on and off the stage.

Check out Salam The Poet’s music here.

Nija Da One

Represents: Miami Gardens

Nija Da One uses music and spoken word to tell their story and express who they are. The Miami Gardens artist says their words, music and experiences are all connected to their identity and their commitment to continuing to create.

“I’m not giving up on my dreams or my voice,” Nija Da One wrote in their submission. “I’m only getting started.”

Check out Nija Da One’s music here.

Bluestrip Cartel

Represents: Carol City

Bluestrip Cartel is bringing a distinct sound to the inaugural class. Representing Carol City, the artist kept his submission short and direct, pointing to the uniqueness of his sound.

“My sound is unique. I’m like that,” Bluestrip Cartel wrote.

Check out Bluestrip Cartel’s music here.

Jah Bankzz

Represents: Miami-Dade County

Jah Bankzz sees being from Miami as more than a location. Her connection to the city runs through family, dance, performance and entertainment.

As an independent artist, she says she is continuing to invest her own time, money and energy into her vision.

For Jah Bankzz, being part of the inaugural class is also about making sure Miami can see itself in what she is building.

Check out Jah Bankzz’s music here.

COOL SPITTA MOE

Represents: Little River/Little Haiti, Miami

COOL SPITTA MOE is focused on building a legacy rooted in Miami. Representing Little River and Little Haiti, the artist says his sound reflects the culture, pressure, pride and hustle that shaped him.

“I’m not just on the rise, I’m helping Miami rise with me,” he wrote in his submission.

Check out COOL SPITTA MOE’s music here.

Champolaa

Represents: Carol City

Champolaa describes himself as both an authentic representation of South Florida culture and an artist who challenges some of the expectations surrounding what Miami artists typically sound and look like.

Representing Carol City, Champolaa says his individuality is part of what makes his contribution to the 305 music scene unique.

Check out Champolaa’s music here.

Kyriq

Represents: Miami

Kyriq brings a focus on substance, soul and emotional connection to the inaugural class. The Miami artist describes his sound as versatile and evolving while remaining rooted in authenticity.

As a performer, Kyriq says he aims to turn the emotion behind his records into an experience for his audience. He also points to creativity, depth and a commitment to growth as important parts of his identity as an artist.

Check out Kyriq’s music here.