By: Dennis Richmond, Jr.
“Congratulations to all the rappers who participated,” said Yonkers Councilwoman Tasha Diaz. “This exemplifies that we do have talent here in Yonkers!” The councilwoman went on to say, “Rap is a culture, a way of expression, and a way for them to give a synopsis of what they’ve been through, what they’ve seen, or what they’re going through.”
I appreciate the councilwoman for her words. We all know that in Yonkers, the conversation about rap rarely ends with the music. It often turns to community, business, and the realities of chasing a dream. During interviews with artists selected for the 2026 Top 10 Rappers in Yonkers, one theme emerged repeatedly: success is measured by much more than streams and social media.
For Augu$t Ru$h, music has become something deeply personal. Although he has appeared on BET, HOT 97, and Power 105, fame has never been his primary motivation.
“I don’t make music to be famous,” he said. “I communicate through rapping. It’s more therapy now.”
He reflected on the loss of two uncles who believed in his career and encouraged aspiring artists to “never stop” and “stay consistent.” His long-term goal is simple: build a cult-like following and eventually earn enough from music that he no longer has to work another job.
Phillip “Philly Haze” Colon sees rap through both an artistic and business lens. Influenced by artists such as Big Pun, Jadakiss, Dave East, and Benny the Butcher, he spoke about the industry’s financial realities, including streaming payouts and the importance of ownership.
“Our conversation was about music and the music business,” Haze said, adding that confidence and consistency are just as important as talent. Reflecting on Yonkers, he described what many call a “dark cloud” hanging over the city’s music scene.
Julisa “JuJu F’n Baby” Robinson credits her greatest inspiration not to another artist, but to herself. A mother who performs at events throughout the country, she is preparing for an upcoming performance in Puerto Rico. Having once come close to signing a record deal at the former Yonkers nightclub Razzous, she now uses her experience to create music and mentor young people in songwriting. Her advice: Stop doubting yourself and never let others dim your light.
For Musheed “Bixy2Trendy” Muhammad, support from the community means everything. A chef by trade, he said he cares less about money than telling his story through music. His advice is to trust yourself, slow down, and remember not to take life too seriously.
Other artists echoed similar themes. Haze Milli said online negativity has no place in his career, encouraging young people to channel criticism into motivation and stay focused on one goal at a time. Lady Slim, a Lincoln High School graduate, and I spoke about how rappers deserve recognition just as athletes receive trophies. She has been rapping since she was young and also knows how to sing and play the drums.
G2Baby emphasized humility and hard work, saying, “The work shows for the Top 10.” He described himself as “a celebrity in the making” and said he would tell his younger self to remain authentic and stay humble. Meanwhile, 2025 Riverside High School graduate Tahj “T Dottttt” Baker said being recognized only motivates him to work harder. He said he wouldn’t give his younger self any advice because everything happens for a reason.
While each artist’s journey is different, they all share one belief: You have to remain consistent.
Dennis Richmond, Jr. (@NewYorkStakz) is a journalist, historian, and educator from Yonkers, NY. He writes to uplift unheard voices, honor history, and inspire change.