UNEARTHING HIP HOP IN COLORADO: Courier GT on the Rise

by Dawn Duncan 
When one thinks of the Colorado music scene, the hip hop genre may not be top of mind. However, as music momentum continues to build throughout our region, so does the appreciation for and exposure to hip hop, as well as the diversity of artists becoming known as major forces in the genre. We’re a “no coast” region, which is our first big difference in the hip hop world, classically associated with the east and west coastal areas of the US. But, like music in general, hip hop is rooted in storytelling, the blending of past and present, and the amalgamation of unique personalities and experience and this is a universal thread amongst artists, regardless of their background.
One emerging artist quickly moving to the forefront of the Colorado hip hop scene is Courier GT who has broken onto the scene in 2012. His first release, “Inspired,” provided a glimpse of things to come, offering infectious beats, hooks and poetic lyrics.  Now, with a new mixtape, “Dear Winter,” Courier GT is on the rise and making headway through the often underground, yet booming hip hop scene.
As a go-to opener at Cervantes Masterpiece in Denver, Courier GT, with the help of DJ Jax-Zen and their crew called The Chroniklez, featuring other artists Docta Mario, Dubz Carter, Ena-G & Tommy Tantrum; they have opened for several national acts this year alone, including Nappy Roots, Shwayze and Collie Buddz. With the room packed to capacity and the lineups stellar, Courier GT has continued to stand out amongst his peers, constantly improving his flow, depth of lyrics, stage performance and overall audience appeal. The shows have been high in energy, quality and appeal. His relationship with DJ and fellow rapper, Jax-Zen, is one that dates back to high school in Laramie, WY, another perhaps unlikely breeding ground for quality hip hop, but that which produced the foundation of The Chroniklez crew now residing along the Front Range. Jax-Zen’s clever lyrics and quick wit, paired with an enigmatic stage presence and likability factor have made him the perfect complement to Courier’s rhythm and flow. Taking inspiration from such artists as J Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Nas and Lupe Fiasco, among many other artists and bands in all genres, Courier GT is gleaning from hip hop’s strong core, but carving out a unique style of his own.
One area Courier GT has differentiated himself and his music from other hip hop acts is in the “conscious and positive” message brought to his lyrics. Notes of inspiration, confidence, rising above negativity and some of the stereotypical messages in the hip hop realm, Courier GT strives for a message that is both inspired and clear.  Seeking ideas from his life, as well as the people who surround him, commenting on society and events, and bringing forth a sharp and punctuated delivery of clever lyrics and memorable beats, the music has evolved from basic beginnings to true poeticism.
Up next for Courier GT is a string of shows in Fort Collins, as he expands his reach throughout Colorado. He’s on the lineup of the hip hop/rock showcase headlined by Wasteland Hop at Avo’s on June 6, performing at a private event June 15, and will be coming off the heels of an opening slot for Carlton Pride and Mighty Zion that wrapped at the end of May at Hodi’s. This is one act to pay close attention to, whose star is rising quickly and gaining the respect and notoriety from seasoned hip hop artists and fans. To check out the new mixtape “Dear Winter,” visit www.couriergt.com