Philadelphia is a city known for its rich history and diverse culture. In honor of Black History Month, we celebrate the contributions of Black artists and musicians from the City of Brotherly Love who continue to shape the cultural landscape in bold and inspiring ways. From the visual brilliance of Khalif Rivers and Mz. Icar to the soulful melodies of Pink Sweat$ and the musical genius of Tierra Whack and Lay Bankz, these artists are redefining what it means to be an innovator in the world of art and music in Philadelphia.
Pink Sweat$
(Photo Credit: Pink Sweat$)
West Philly’s own Pink Sweat$ is proof that you don’t need flashy beats to make a hit, just raw talent, soulful vibes, and a voice that melts hearts. Before stepping into the spotlight, he was crafting songs for big names like Tory Lanez and Tierra Whack, but it wasn’t long before his own sound took center stage. With stripped-down instrumentals and lyrics that hit deep, his breakout single “Honesty” put him on the map, followed by the viral “At My Worst”, a love anthem that still has fans swooning. Rooted in R&B but unafraid to break the mold, Pink Sweat$ continues to redefine what it means to be an artist in today’s music scene. As he takes his Welcome Home Tour to the Kimmel Center on March 22, 2025 it’s a full-circle moment, celebrating his journey from Philly’s streets to global stages, all while staying true to his sound.
Lay Banks
Lay Bankz is a rising star from Southwest Philadelphia whose journey from local talent to viral sensation exemplifies the dynamic spirit of Black artistry. She began writing at the age of 10, drawing inspiration from her Eritrean and African American heritage. In 2019, at just 15, she released her first song, “Passion,” marking the start of her career. During the pandemic, Lay Bankz used the power of social media, TikTok in particular, to share her music and connect with a broader audience. Her energetic blend of R&B, hip-hop, and Jersey club music resonated widely, leading to viral hits like “Na Na Na.” and “Ick” These viral tracks not only showcase her versatility but also sparked dance challenges, which expanded her reach. In 2024, “Tell Ur Girlfriend” became her breakout hit, charting on the Billboard Hot 100 and inspiring another viral dance trend. Lay Bankz’s rise to fame underscores the power of digital platforms in amplifying Black voices and artistry. Her fusion of genres and engaging online presence continue to inspire a new generation of artists and fans alike.
Tierra Whack
(Photo Credit: Tierra Whack)
Tierra Whack, a Germantown native, has redefined the boundaries of hip-hop with her imaginative artistry and genre-blending sound. She began her journey as “Dizzle Dizz,” captivating local audiences with her battle rap skills. In 2017, she embraced her birth name and released the single “Mumbo Jumbo,” earning a Grammy nomination for Best Music Video. Her debut album, Whack World, is a 15-minute visual and auditory experience that received widespread critical acclaim for its innovation and creativity. Collaborations with artists like Lil Yachty, Beyoncé, and Tyler, the Creator have further showcased her versatility. Notably, her feature on Lil Yachty’s “T.D” reached #83 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2020. Tierra Whack continues to push artistic boundaries, solidifying her place as a visionary in contemporary music.
Khalif Rivers
(Photo credit: Khalif Rivers)
Philadelphia-based photographer Khalif Rivers has a gift for capturing the extraordinary in the everyday, a skill deeply rooted in the tradition of Black artists finding beauty and meaning where the world often fails to look. His journey began with an appreciation for the overlooked corners of his city, transforming quiet streets and hidden landscapes into powerful visual stories. But when the pandemic forced him indoors, Khalif turned challenge into opportunity, dedicating himself to mastering studio flash photography. What started as a personal experiment became a defining moment in his career, leading him to create striking still-life compositions that play with bold colors, crisp directional lighting, and deep shadows.
Mz. Icar
(Photo Credit: Mz. Icar)
Mz. Icar is more than an art collective, it’s a movement. Based in Philadelphia, this anonymous group predominantly made up of Black women, is flipping the script on race and gender, quite literally. The name is a testament to its mission of reshaping narratives and challenging societal norms. Blending illustration, photography, design, street art, and collage, the collective crafts bold, immersive works that center Blackness, womanhood, and the spirit of play. Their art isn’t just seen, it’s felt. From local murals to international exhibitions, public installations to augmented reality experiences. They’ve left their creative mark on everything from Lauryn Hill’s World Tour to major brand collaborations with Doritos, BET, and Xbox. Their award-winning short film “Of Expansion” has traveled the globe, and their large-scale works live in collections from Boston to Green Bay. From gallery walls to city streets, Mz. Icar is making sure Black artistry is unapologetic, limitless, and unforgettable.
These artistic journeys remind us of the power of creativity in challenging the status quo. As we celebrate their incredible talents during Black History Month, let us continue to support and uplift the vibrant Black artists and musicians in our communities, not just this month, but every day. These creatives are truly making their mark and shaping the future of art and music in Philadelphia and beyond.
