THE BLUEPRINT CNCRT - Reggies Chicago

IF YOU’VE BEEN LIVING UNDER A ROCK — Chicago showed out in 2023, with stunning albums from rising talents in D2X, Kayo, SONNY and more carrying momentum into the new year. As the “BLUEPRINT” for a new sound bubbling within the city, CNCRT presents its foundational BLUEPRINT CNCRT: Showcasing artists that are paving their own way.

D2X

The 26-year-old Southside native’s latest album ‘Hotel 1105’ is not only striped with jazzy undertones and heartfelt, powerful lyricism, but is laced with intention. His soulful sophomore effort earned critical praise from outlets such as NFR, Illanoize, Album Of The Year and more. A step up from his 2021 project ‘The Color Blue,’ D2X’s initial hoop dreams have turned into a hip-hop chronicle worth a second glance.

KAYO

Kayo is a Chicago based rapper and singer who’s shown glimpses of superstardom since the release of his debut album ‘It Was Fun While It Lasted’ and his close out mixtape, ‘UNTIL HIS BURIAL’. After garnering the attention of the underground rap scene with collaborations featuring the likes of Paris Price, Senite, femdot., Ausar, Stoic, Pilotkid, and many others, Kayo is looking to be one of the rising stars of this era. And from his hard hitting lyricism, infectious vocal arrangements, R&B-esque melodies, and larger than life aura, he is proving to be just that.

SONNY

It’s been ‘All Gas No Brakes’ for SONNY since sharing his 9-track mixtape in February. Marked by co-signs from Chicago creative forces like Andrew Barber, LONEWOLF and Lyrical Lemonade among others, the “KILL BILL” artist’s sets are as lively and enigmatic as his music. Opening for renowned artists such as Dro Kenji, Midwxst and more, SONNY’s creative style thrives by staying “RISKY” — referencing his ‘AGNB’ hit with LONEWOLF’ — above all. A true descendant of Chicago’s drill roots, SONNY is at his best when in front of his home crowd.

KIRALY PAYNE

Inspired by the brooding, slant rhymes of Smino, Kiraly Payne’s unique skillset — and sound — is perhaps the city’s best-kept secret. It’s been a minute since KP dropped a project, sharing singles over the the last two years, one with fellow artist SONNY (“It Is What It Is”). Whether you’re bumping wavy, bar-heavy cuts like “Freez” or electro-infused bops in “You Need Me” and “Back Down,” consider the BLUEPRINT show as a return to form for the eclectic MC — whose long-awaited debut album looms closer each day.

BETTER KNOWN AS

An alter ego that’s evolved into a sonic superhero, better known as continues to redefine the city’s airwaves. With tracks like “CHECK” rumbling speakers throughout the underground last year, BKA has built a one-of-one world since releasing his debut project, ‘WE MET IN 2025’ years ago. Although his latest project ‘LATELY’ is filled with daring soundscapes, it’s heartfelt at its core — a perfect depiction of BKA’s character. Don’t miss tracks like “Bare My Soul” and “Loveline” on stage.

D2X

KAYO

SONNY

KIRALY PAYNE

BETTER KNOWN AS

DJ PREME