Michael Phantom

Coming up as part of Octavian's Essie Gang collective, South London rapper Michael Phantom made his name in the international scene with a well-placed feature on a hit single alongside Octavian and Skepta. Making his musical debut on Octavian's 2019 single "Bet," London-based rapper Michael Phantom quickly became one to watch in the U.K. underground, drawing looks with a singular, understated vocal style. Continuing in the group's black-and-white aesthetic for his solo debut, he dropped his solo debut, "Madeleine," in August that year. A combination of the off-kilter production of his Essie World labelmates and Phantom's trademark subdued vocals, the single added aspects of DMX-esque horrorcore to his more traditional trap-led braggadocio. Essie Gang's debut single "Pattern Chanel," followed in November, with Phantom appearing alongside L3, J Rick, Octavian, and SQ Diesel for a booming bass-led banger. ~ David Crone