Year in Review of 2011 Lists - Top 10 Independent Artists of the Year

Independent artists right now are also hard to distinguish because so many people have their own label and then get signed or create large partnerships. My independent artists on this list are TRUELY independent. My 2010 list included Wiz Khalifa, Yelawolf, Travis Porter, 2Chainz, and Alley Boy. My 2011 list should be watched for the biggest up and coming artists in 2012!

Last Year: Yo Gotti

10. Chris Webby
9. Dro Man
8. Kid Ink
7. Danny Brown
6. Atmosphere
5. Starlito
4. Childish Gambino
3. Mac Miller
2. Hopsin

Having long been established as the top independent artist in the hip hop game, Tech N9ne had another breakthrough year, commanding the respect and attention of a larger mainstream audience while maintaining his independent status. In 2011, Tech N9ne and Strange Music conducted their business as usual, over 200 tour dates, two album releases and lucrative merchandising, and in the process he watched the popular hip hop industry fall in line, including collaborations with Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes and a showstopping feature on the BET Hip Hop Awards Cypher.

Music channels, magazines, websites and radio promotions usually reserved for major label insiders submitted to the power of the business Tech N9ne created. But greater than any individual accolade he received is the satisfaction of having created a model for independent artists to follow, powered by dedication, uncompromising vision and a top quality team of leaders. - Common Breath

1. Tech N9ne