Rhode Island’s music scene just found its next breakout star, and his name is YLM Forest. Emerging from the creative crossroads of Rhode Island and Massachusetts, this genre-defying artist is quickly becoming the hottest unsigned talent in the region. With a sound that fuses reggae, alternative grunge, trap, pop, and house, YLM Forest is crafting a vibe that breaks boundaries and captivates listeners at every turn.
What sets YLM Forest apart isn’t just his eclectic style — it’s his unique flow and mood-driven approach. He’s not here to spit classic bar-for-bar rap verses; instead, he focuses on building moods and inviting fans into his sonic world. “I’m trying to create a vibe,” he shares, describing a creative process that starts with quick bursts of freestyle, then evolves into carefully sculpted soundscapes filled with positivity and raw feeling.
His latest single, Juice, perfectly captures this energy. The track is a genre-blending anthem full of optimism and catchy melodies, proving why YLM Forest is becoming a name to watch. Beyond his solo work, he’s collaborated with notable artists like Akae Beka and Carlton Carvalho and has upcoming features with rising stars ImDru! and Luwop, signaling his growing influence.
YLM Forest’s rise has been marked by some legendary moments. One highlight is his role shooting a music video for legendary New York rapper Nems, a project that put him on the radar of many industry insiders. Even more iconic was his experience working alongside DJ Premier and Termanology on a video for Teflon of M.O.P at a retired New York prison — a milestone that not only boosted his credibility but earned him a coveted nod from the legendary DJ Premier himself.
Just recently, YLM Forest took over the airwaves on DJ Franchise’s show on 101.1 WBRU in Providence, Rhode Island. There, he played his instrumental single Juice live on the mic — no vocals — proving his music’s power to captivate even in its purest form. This radio debut was a testament to his skill and growing local buzz, putting listeners on full alert to the star in their backyard.
Like many independent artists, YLM Forest balances the grind of funding studio time, videos, and collaborations, but his dedication is unwavering. He credits years of trial, error, and growth for refining his signature sound. With a clear vision for the future, he aims to turn his passion into a full-time career that supports his family and leaves a lasting musical legacy.
For those looking to stay ahead of the curve, YLM Forest has a few hit records “in the cut” that we were lucky enough to preview — and trust us, you want to stay in the loop.
To catch the wave yourself, follow YLM Forest on Instagram and stream Juice on Spotify. This is more than music; it’s a movement — and Rhode Island’s own YLM Forest is leading the charge.
