Atmosphere

Atmosphere, the hip-hop group and Rhymesayers label founders, are known for their introspective lyrics, inventive storytelling, and classic production that has earned them a loyal grassroots following. Initially debuting as a trio in 1997, they evolved into a core duo of rapper Slug and producer Ant, achieving commercial success with albums like When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold in 2008. Their prolific output, collaborations, and consistent touring have solidified their position as indie rap superstars, with their eighth album, Fishing Blues, reaching the top of the U.S. indie chart in 2016. As co-founders of Rhymesayers, they are also closely associated with the annual Minneapolis music festival, Soundset.

Slug and Ant, the driving forces behind Atmosphere, started their musical journey as teenagers, forming the Rhymesayers collective and label to pursue their passion for hip-hop. Over the years, they honed their craft and built a dedicated fan base with albums like Overcast! in 1997 and God Loves Ugly in 2002, showcasing Slug's introspective lyricism and Ant's inventive production. The group's commercial success continued to grow with albums like Seven's Travels in 2003 and Southsiders in 2014, solidifying their status as indie rap icons. With a discography that spans over two decades, Atmosphere's music resonates with fans worldwide, blending personal narratives with infectious beats to create a distinctive sound that has stood the test of time.