Malvo: Carving a New Lane in the Underground Rap Scene
Malvo is more than just another name in the ever-growing rap scene — he’s a fresh voice fueled by purpose, intention, and a relentless desire to disrupt the mainstream. Hailing from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Malvo (real name James Baker) began his music journey in 2020, not out of fame-chasing, but from a genuine hunger for a new sound. Tired of the same RapCaviar rotations and seeking something beyond the commercial noise, he discovered the underground gem Autumn!, a pivotal influence that cracked open a new world of sonic possibility.
The journey of Malvo
By 2021, Malvo was in the studio with a friend, sharpening his skills. After a break, he returned in 2025 with a fresh mindset and a refined creative vision. His sound is versatile, unpredictable, and purpose-driven — a bold contrast to trends. He refuses to rap over typical “industry-standard” beats, preferring instead to experiment and carve out something that’s uniquely his.
“I’ve got a story that blends passion and persistence,” he says. “I didn’t come from the gutter, but I’ve had my struggles and always kept God first.”
The connections and growth Malvo has made
His growth has been rapid. Since dropping his debut EP in February, he’s racked up over 3,100 streams and built a steady monthly listenership on Spotify. He’s collaborated with respected underground names like Maajins and LuhPray, and tapped into rising producers such as 19thou and rexv2, continuing to expand his creative network. A major feature with Maajins is on the way, and more collabs are in the pipeline.
Challenges and tribulations
Malvo’s biggest challenge so far? Finding his sound. The early days were filled with experimentation, trial and error, and artistic searching. But it’s that process — and those growing pains — that shaped his current identity as a genre-pushing, sound-focused artist. His main influences remain Autumn! and Jaydes — the former of whom he even met in 2021, a moment that still feels surreal.
What’s next for Malvo
Looking ahead, Malvo sees himself breaking into the charts, with his sights set on a label deal. But more than numbers or accolades, he wants his music to connect — to reach ears that haven’t heard him yet and to keep building through collaboration and authenticity.
“Everything I put out is intentional. I’m not trying to just go viral — I’m trying to build something real.”
