A Tale of Two Titans: Oblivion's Mighty Trash and AlcolirykoZ
🎤 Harmony in Dissonance: Navigating Colombian rap, and the current state of affairs for some of its biggest representatives
In the ever-evolving landscape of Colombian rap, a fascinating dichotomy has emerged as of late: the meteoric rise of artists like Oblivion's Mighty Trash, put against the seasoned wisdom and cult following of veterans like AlcolirykoZ.
Oblivion’s Mighty Trash. Photo: Efecto Vinilo
Oblivion's journey is a testament to the power of digital platforms, catapulting him to fame at just 21 years old. With an impressive listener count and a fervent fanbase, he represents the new wave of artists harnessing the internet's potential to reach global audiences.
Meanwhile, AlcolirykoZ, the undisputed ambassadors of Medellin’s rap scene, have been navigating this brave new world for more than 20 years with a blend of nostalgia and resilience. Their lengthy career has been crafted by pure talent and dedication, remaining true to their essence while adapting to the digital age.
With both artists boasting similar follower counts on the streaming platforms despite their incongruent cronologies (Oblivion’s 600,000 monthly Spotify listeners and AZ 800,000), we're invited to delve deeper into the underlying currents shaping artists’ digital footprints, wondering which metrics are indicative of success, or whatever “success” actually means for an artist in this day an age.
Source: Spotify metrics as of 13.02.24
The rapid ascent of artists like Oblivion underscores the democratization of music production and distribution, empowering young talents to carve their own path in the industry. In the whirlwind of Colombian rap, it’s inevitable to see that he has also emerged as a beacon of hype and media frenzy. With a swift rise to fame and a legion of devoted followers, his journey reflects the intersection of talent, timing, and influence in the digital age.
Yet, amidst this swirl of innovation, AlcolirykoZ has reminded us of the enduring power of authenticity and a grassroots connection with the audience. This was more clearly manifested on 2023’s sold out show at Bogotá’s Movistar Arena: an unprecedented event in the live music space, which is solid proof of the magnitude that hip hop and overall alternative music has gained among Colombian audiences.
Alcolirycoz. Photo: Facebook
As we reflect on these contrasting narratives, this also reminds us that Colombian rap is a tapestry of past, present, and future – each thread contributing to its vibrant mosaic. Beyond the glitz and glamour, it’s worth noting the metrics of success transcend mere numbers, inviting us to ponder the true essence of artistic triumph. Whether embracing the new or honoring the old, the essence of Colombian rap lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its origins.
Join me as we keep exploring the intersections of tradition and innovation, celebrating the diversity and dynamism of Colombian music in the digital age.
Cheers to all, and thanks for tuning into my radar.
Until next time, keep the rhythm alive!
Marco Pisciotti
Music enthusiast & content creator
Villa de Leyva, Colombia. February 15th, 2024.