Iowa Underground: May Recap (2026)

Iowa's scene is heating up heading into the summer.

3MPYRE from Des Moines, IA has been making waves online by leaning into the #IOWAARTIST label. Often jokingly reffering to himself as "the only Iowa artist" in his content. Weather people are supporting it or debating it in the

comments, the strategy has been driving attention and helping his visibility across tik tok and instagram. Alongside the online momentum, he's also released three new songs this month, including a collaboration with fellow Des Moines artist, 202 Tevin.

UVT ASTRO from Des Moines, IA dropped his debut album: "BIOHAZARD" May

22nd.

KABIR PATEL from Des Moines, IA

announces a summer trap album.

Describing it as a personal project dedicated to his community and himself, with heavy influence from his South Asian heritage and rage-inspired sound.

ZZZAY @ LUI* from Des Moines have relocated to Atlanta and havent slowed down.

The pair have been hitting stages and working on new music with @maineestreamm

Des Moines artist FLYLIFE UVT brought his album to life with inside the Blueprint-

an immersive listening experience with live performances, projected visuals, and creative stage design.