Fly Anakin is a rapper and producer who approaches his craft in a way few contemporaries can. Vigilant yet unorthodox, DIY-minded yet prolific, the Richmond, Virginia multihyphenate’s razor-sharp lyrics, ear for soulful production, and collaborative synergy are the result of over a decade of fundamental mastery. He’s previously collaborated with the likes of Freddie Gibbs, Nickelus F, Evidence, Ohbliv, Redveil, MAVI and is co-founder of the Richmond rap collective Mutant Academy.

“If we’re talking fundamentals he’s probably the single best pure rapper in the scene.” Pitchfork

Fly Anakin released his debut studio album Frank on Lex in Spring 2022. The project marked a new chapter in Anakin’s artistic trajectory, including a wider array of collaborators, including Madlib. In 2023 Fly Anakin released follow up album Skinemaxxx, produced entirely by Foisey—fellow member of Richmond rap collective Mutant Academy—with features from founding Mutant Academician Big Kahuna OG and frequent collaborators Pink Siifu, ANKHLEJOHN and London-based vocalist Demae.

His new album, (The) Forever Dream (out April 2025) commemorates a new era of freedom for Anakin, who rarely approaches bodies of work without a preconceived concept. Executive produced by Quelle Chris, the project, which features the likes of Denmark Vessey, BbyMutha, Pink Siifu & $ilkmoney with production from the Alchemist, includes songs that Anakin believes are some of his most experimental and ambitious.

“As an MC, he’s a whirlwind, unleashing a rapidfire flow and packing every pocket with anecdotes, reflections, and commentary over soulful production. A mastery of MCing that took years to develop.” Complex

“Fly Anakin makes his most tongue-twisting verses seem effortless. He knows how good he is and refuses to let anyone forget it.” FADER