Loko: Atlanta’s Alt-Underground Wildcard Bringing Turnt Energy With Purpose

Coming out of Atlanta, Georgia, Loko is a 22-year-old underground artist carving space where few have stood before. While the city is known for shaping some of the biggest sounds in hip-hop, Loko represents something different — a Mexican artist stepping into the alt-underground lane with his own wave, his own energy, and his own story.

“I feel like I might have similarities to artists from my city, but there isn’t really a Mexican artist putting on for this scene the way I am right now,” Loko says. “There were people before like Danny Wolf and Kap G who represented, but I’m on a new wave.”

The goal of Loko

Loko’s sound balances lyricism, flow, and turnt energy, all while keeping things light. His goal isn’t to be boxed into gangster rap — even if the imagery pops up — but to make music people can genuinely enjoy without overthinking it.

“I’m just having fun,” he explains. “I want people to smile, vibe, and feel good when they listen. Don’t take it serious — just ride.”

What music means to Loko and how it reflects his past

Music became Loko’s escape early on. Growing up with his own struggles, he found comfort in sound long before he ever stepped in a studio. Hip-hop, country, rock, and Spanish music all shaped his ear, planting a dream he didn’t know would feel possible until later.

the turning point of his career

That turning point came through an unexpected path: barbering. What started as a way to make extra cash turned into a full career — and eventually, a gateway into Atlanta’s music scene. Cutting hair put Loko in close proximity to artists and producers, including members of the YSL camp, where he saw firsthand the energy, fun, and creative freedom behind the music.

“That’s when I told myself I could do this,” he says. “I knew I could bring that same energy — maybe even more — especially because you don’t hear about a Mexican popping from Atlanta.”

Two moments solidified that belief.

The first came when Kid Hazel, a producer known for working closely with 21 Savage, reacted live to Loko’s music on Instagram. Nervous at first, Loko quickly realized the reaction wasn’t just coming from the producer — it was coming from viewers too, flooding the comments with fire emojis and love.

“That’s when I said, ‘Hell yeah, I can really make something shake.’”

The second moment followed through his barber connections with Lil Gotit, who encouraged Loko to go all-in after hearing his music. Gotit even asked him to send an open verse for the track “Fast Life,” hinting at future collaborations and a possible remix.

As Loko continues to grow, he’s learned one of the hardest truths of the industry: this path isn’t easy — and it isn’t for everyone.

“That’s why I caption my posts ‘thisisnotforeveryone,’” he says. “Not everybody gonna fuck with it, and that’s okay. If it makes someone curious enough to listen, at least they heard it.”

his focus for the future

Right now, Loko’s focus is simple but intentional: putting out his first songs, getting honest feedback, and getting better with every release. He wants listeners to tell him what works and what doesn’t — not out of ego, but out of respect for the craft.

“If you don’t like it, cool. Tell me why. I want every song to be better than the last.”

Like most artists, Loko dreams of big stages and bigger moments. But he keeps his expectations grounded, trusting that whatever happens is part of a bigger plan.

“If I’m blessed enough to make it up there, that’s amazing. If not, it’s still cool. God knows what’s right for me.”

At the core of it all, Loko wants his music to feel human — fun, unforced, and real. No gimmicks. No pretending.

Just energy, joy, and a sound that speaks for itself.