Defsounds

With the shades of summer fading away, we are quickly approaching the end of the year. And with every years end--comes the top lists and the run downs. So lets kick things off this year with nine relative new comers to watch out for in 2009. Think of this as our version of leaders of the new school.

#9. Nino Bless

Opening up the list is a relative new comer by industry standards who’s collabo resume stands pretty impressive--not only that, but Bless has also been known to ghostwrite for many of todays Hip Hop heavyweights.

From working with Styles P to Joe Budden, Bless has been readying to blast off into superstardom for some time.

As he smirks toward those attempting to categorize him as an up-and-coming who uses names of established artists for personal exposure - I’m sick of what these lames be spittin’ like, 50 Cent hook’s what The Game’s been missing – he smiles at the fact that both Indie and Majors are paying attention.

Bless is currently working on his debut album, his latest mixtape, Untold Scripture can be heard over at Datpiff.com

#8. GemStone

Chicago has been consistently producing quality MCs over the last few years. Common, Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco, and now Gemstone.

Formerly known as Gemini, Gemstone is a close friend of Lupe Fiasco and has gone toe to toe with the celebrated MC on numerous tracks including “The Die,” on his critically acclaimed album “The Cool.”

Gemstone’s solo effort, Troubles Of The World, is currently in the works. He is also rumored to be working on an untitled album with fellow First & Fifteenth members Lupe Fiasco and Shayla G.

Lupe Fiasco Feat. Gemstone - The Die

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#7. Charles “The Pink Ranger” Hamilton

Now, I’m not really a big fan of Mr. Hamilton and he’s not really a big of fan ours, but I definitely can’t leave him off this list. Though he has the persona of a love child from Kanye West and Forest Gump, that was then subsequently thrown down a flight of stairs suffering massive brain damage, Charles has managed to create a great following ensuring him a big year in ’09.

Signed to Interscope Records, Hamilton is currently working on his debut album which, according to sources, will bring a breath of fresh air to our beloved Hip Hop--and that air will probably smell like penis--pink penis.

On a serious note, Hamilton has skills and potential. 2009 will bring big things for the Harlem youngster just as long he doesn’t end up like most of the new comers in ’08 (Where in the world is Saigon’s album???).

Charles Hamilton - A Millie Freestyle

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#6. Corey Gunz

What is there to say about this Bronx native with blood ties to the golden age of Hip Hop? Well let’s start with him completely outshining Lil Wayne on one of the summers biggest singles, A Milli, next we can speak about a little track he has with renown lyricist, Cassidy, in which the up-and-comer once again outshines the headliner.

Gunz first got our attention on the aforementioned Milli track and he has definitely demanded it ever since.

He is currently working on his solo debut, “God Forgives, I don’t” and has been dropping mixtapes all summer long; including “The Best Kept Secret” available for download here.

#5. Nina B

Closing off the first half of our count down is Bronx born, Brooklyn bred MC, Nina B.

With the lack of talented female MCs in the industry, Nina B is readying up to break through big time in ’09.

Talented and charismatic, this MC has the potential to bring a sort of quality to the industry since the days of Lauryn Hill.

Jay Z Feat. Nina B - Blue Magic Remix

Check back Wednesday for the final four.