By Mike Romero
Things are heating up for Utah based rappers NewConnection. Originally from the east coast, Brooklyn’s Ryan Isles and Baltimore’s Justin Cooper have been pursuing music since 2012. A musical tour de force, the duo combines Cooper’s soulful vocals with Isles’ rapid fire rap. One needn’t look further than Instagram to see the raw talent that exists between the duo. Whether it’s Isles rapping a lightning fast original verse to “Look At Me Now” or Cooper showcasing his vocal runs in a parking garage, their Insta presence is sure to hook a first time viewer.
But the duo has done more than work on their Instagram presence. In July of 2014, they headlined FantasyCon in Salt Lake City – an event that featured celebrities like Elijah Wood, Simon Pegg, and other faces from the fantasy genre. They were also Super Music Friends in Yo Gabba Gabba’s 2014 National Tour and have opened for the likes of Meek Mill, Tinashe, Musiq Soul Child, and Biz Markie. This year they’ve already headlined Indie Lounge’s Sundance Film Festival Event in January and were the exclusive performing artists for the 5th annual Utah Film Awards in March.
Last month, NewConnection released their latest single, “Settle Down,” ahead of Relationship Games – a Tidal Exclusive EP coming June 6th. They’re following up Relationship Games with the wide release of another EP, Gentleman’s Handbook, on July 3rd. It’s going to be a grueling next few months for NewConnection, but working hard at your craft has its perks.
On May 26th, New Connection will be opening for B.O.B. at The Complex in Salt Lake City. B.o.B. is stopping through Salt Lake on his way to Englewood, Colorado as part of his 2016 stfu. Tour. The show will also feature Scotty ATL and London Jae. Advance tickets are $17 online, and doors open at 7PM.
“My brother and I are honored to open for B.o.B.,” says Cooper. “He’s a huge influence on our music. But then again we just love being onstage doing what we love to do.”
You can follow NewConnection on Instagram @newconnection. Make sure to check out “Toast To My Ex” below.
Provo Music Magazine 