Jonathan Cloud: The 2026 Rising Star Taking Independent Hip-Hop Full Throttle

Released January 29th 2026

Jonathan Cloud was one of my 2026 Rising Star producers, co-signed by Chance The Rapper after remixing Chance’s album last year. I’ve been waiting for him to drop, and here in 2026, the rapper/producer is going full throttle. Since this is just one of many projects he has already released this year, let’s dig right in!

This is a quick 5-track EP from Cloud, clocking in just under 10 minutes—a perfect entry point if you’re unfamiliar with his work. Personally, I love this “quick bite” method; it gives fans and new listeners a jolt of music without being overwhelming. It also allows for consistent, “dosed-out” drops across multiple months, which is exactly the strategy Cloud has mastered.

The project kicks off with one of my favorites, “My Train’s On Schedule.” Cloud attacks the track with ferocity over an incredible sample. “Don’t get it twisted and think you’re essential,” he spits. The entire EP is packed with these kinds of personal insights and bars that sting. “Intelligent & Handsome” featured a beat that had to grow on me, mostly because it’s sandwiched between two heavy hitters: “My Train’s On Schedule” and “PlayStation Plus.” That said, the track slaps—literally, the percussion is crisp—and Cloud continues to spit daggers: “Every homie that you got trying to back door ya.”

“PlayStation Plus” was the first track I heard before the release, and that production holds a special quality that really shines. It’s upbeat yet “muddy” in a way that just works. Plus, I’m always a fan of video game-based bars and references. “Say It Again” brings a high energy that Cloud matches perfectly, offering more of those raw self-realizations. Lines like “I just recently peeped the power of resting” and “I think I was burning out” are not easy realizations to have, let alone mention on a track.

The closer—and longest track—is “Hold On One More Day Pt. 1.” It features another top-shelf beat and a ringing sample. Cloud delivers a great verse before letting the production ride out. While I would’ve loved to hear one more verse here, the beat is so soulful you can’t be mad at letting it play off.

It is worth noting that this project was fully produced by Jonathan Cloud in addition to the vocals. He is as talented a lyricist as he is a producer. Even though I thoroughly enjoyed this, it feels like Cloud is just warming up for what the rest of the year has in store.

Album Rating: 👑👑👑👑👑👑👑👑 (8.5/10)

Standout Tracks: “My Train’s On Schedule,” “PlayStation Plus,” “Say It Again,” & “Hold On One More Day Pt. 1”

Support dope art—buy this on Bandcamp today!

https://herewerestinpeace.bandcamp.com/album/what-doesnt-kill-me-will