Hip Hop Awards 2024: From Soundcloud to Stardom: Kaytranada’s Musical Journey to 'DJ of the Year’ Nominee
Kaytranada’s rise from an underground producer to a global sensation has been impressive.
Known for blending electronic beats with hip-hop, R&B, and funk elements, the Haitian-Canadian artist has carved out a unique space in the music world.
His breakout album 99.9% (2016) earned critical acclaim, but BUBBAsolidified his place as a game-changer, winning two Grammy Awards, including Best Dance/Electronic Album.
He recently earned a nomination for “DJ of the Year” at the BET Hip Hop Awards 2024, further proof that he’s not just making noise—he’s shaping the sound of the future. Ahead of this year’s show, get familiar with the sounds of Kaytranada.
“If”
One of Kaytranada’s early standout tracks, “If,” gained significant traction on SoundCloud. A remix of Janet Jackson’s classic 1993 single, it features a smooth, electronic beat that blends futuristic sounds with deep bass, showcasing Kaytranada’s talent for crafting infectious grooves. This style would soon become his signature.
“Be Your Girl”
This remix became one of Kaytranada’s breakthrough moments, gaining massive popularity on SoundCloud and beyond. His rework of Teedra Moses’ “Be Your Girl” transformed the R&B classic into a vibey, bass-heavy jam, making it a staple in DJ sets and solidifying his remixing prowess.
“Leave Me Alone” feat. Shay Lia
This collaboration with Montreal singer Shay Lia marked another milestone for Kaytranada. The track combines sultry R&B vocals with his signature electronic sound, demonstrating his ability to fuse genres effortlessly while keeping his music fresh and accessible.
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“99.9%”
Kaytranada’s debut album 99.9% was a turning point in his career, with standout tracks like "Glowed Up" featuring Anderson .Paak and "Lite Spots." The album was an eclectic mix of funk, house, and hip-hop, winning him critical acclaim and showcasing his versatility.
“BUBBA”
Kaytranada’s Grammy-winning album BUBBA pushed him to new heights, featuring standout records like "10%" with Kali Uchis and "Go DJ" with SiR. The project was a masterclass in blending electronic beats with soul, hip-hop, and funk, earning him recognition across the music industry.
“Twin Flame” feat. Anderson .Paak
“Twin Flame” marked yet another successful collaboration with Anderson. Paak delivered a funky, upbeat track that blended Paak’s smooth vocals with Kaytranada’s rhythmic genius. The song was a reminder of the strong chemistry between the two artists and Kaytranada’s continued evolution.
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“Timeless”
Timeless marks a new chapter in his already impressive discography. True to its name, the album blends forward-thinking production with nostalgic vibes, creating a sound that feels both innovative and classic.
The album features several notable guest appearances by Childish Gambino, Durand Bernarr, Don Toliver, Mariah the Scientist, and more.
