On April 5th, 2024, hip-hop artist $um1 took the stage at The Forge in Joliet, Illinois, opening for the well-known artist Sleepy Hallow. What was initially meant to be just another opening act turned into a defining moment for $um1, as he left the crowd in awe and managed to steal the show from every other opener. This performance has catapulted him into the spotlight, resulting in a wave of new opportunities and gigs lined up for the talented Milwaukee native.
$um1 has been making waves in the hip-hop scene with his distinctive sound, blending emotional depth with raw authenticity. At just 21 years old, he has already showcased an impressive range of skills—whether it’s his introspective storytelling or his ability to craft hypnotic beats that keep listeners hooked. But his performance at The Forge was something different. It was the moment that proved to everyone in the room, and the music industry at large, that $um1 is a force to be reckoned with.
With a crowd eagerly awaiting Sleepy Hallow’s headlining set, $um1 didn’t just perform; he commanded the stage. His energy was unmatched, and his connection with the audience was palpable. From the moment he stepped on stage, $um1 had the crowd hanging on every word, every beat. It wasn’t just the delivery of his verses or his ability to craft emotive hooks—it was the magnetic presence he exuded that made him impossible to ignore. As the lights flashed and the bass dropped, $um1 proved that he was no mere opening act. He was the one everyone would remember.
The buzz from that night quickly spread across social media, with fans and music insiders alike raving about $um1’s performance. His stage presence, authenticity, and skill were undeniable, and it wasn’t long before more gig opportunities began flooding in. The success of his performance at The Forge helped solidify his reputation as an artist who could hang with the best in the game—and it didn’t take long before other shows started to line up, proving that this young artist is on an upward trajectory.
It’s not just the performance that has everyone talking. His ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with captivating beats speaks to his emotional depth and artistry, making him an artist that people can connect with on a personal level. Whether it’s the raw pain of heartbreak or the triumph of self-discovery, $um1’s songs are a reflection of his life, his struggles, and his growth.
Beyond his impressive meeting with Sony Records in 2022 and his upcoming trip to New York City for a meeting with Roc Nation in 2024, $um1 has shown time and time again that he’s not just another artist in the crowd—he’s here to carve out his own lane. The way he captivated the crowd at The Forge was just the beginning. It’s clear that $um1’s sound is resonating with more than just fans in Milwaukee—he’s starting to capture the attention of the broader hip-hop world, and his performance that night marked a turning point in his career.
For those looking for the next big thing in hip-hop, keep your eyes on $um1. His journey is just beginning, and with performances like the one at The Forge, it’s clear that his rise to the top is inevitable. Don’t miss out—check out his new single “Love Died”, and follow him on Instagram @theonlysum1 to keep up with the latest from this rising star.
