Zootzie

Jevon Joseph, known as Zootzie, is a rapper raised in Pennsylvania and now based in Chicago. His music blends raw lyricism with experimental production, creating a sound both futuristic and rooted in hip-hop tradition. Drawing from social observation, and a drive to innovate, Zootzie crafts songs that balance grit with vulnerability and energy with introspection. He first gained recognition with projects that showcased both range and intention. The 2023 album McLeod highlighted his sharp pen and adventurous ear for beats, while collaborations with underground collectives pushed his artistry further. In 2025, Zootzie defined his evolving sound with two pivotal releases. The March EP Terminal Z condensed his vision into five tracks over nine minutes — a compact but explosive statement, produced by Dreamnote, Rare1, Prblm, Reklus1ve, Maxim, and Rob $urreal, with striking art by Exodus1900. Its limited cassette run cemented its cult status. Later that year, he released No Body (August 22, 2025), a raw and unflinching album exploring resilience, self-identity, and survival. Balancing underground grit with forward-thinking creativity, Zootzie continues to build a catalog without compromise — a voice raised from Pennsylvania to Chicago and beyond.