Culturally, Szechwan includes the vast province of Sichuan and independent municipality Chongqing—both of which, in addition to gastronomy, are known for a music circuit that stands out in China’s hip-hop scene. The region boasts the respective homes of CDC (aka Chengdu Rap House); and label GO$H Music, which has birthed some of China’s biggest rap stars including Higher Brothers, BO$$ X, Ty., GAI and Bridge. Bar for bar, these voices expertly chop up English, Mandarin and what critics claim is their secret sauce: Sichuanese and Chongqinghua, local dialects that keep fiery lyrics on a steady source of heat. Compounded with mainstream acclaim for talent show The Rap of China as well as the groundbreaking efforts of the 88rising collective, the scene has exploded among a generation hyperconnected by social media. Amidst competition from East China peers, Szechwan rappers have emerged with local stories and a claim to original hip-hop all their own. Our editors regularly update this playlist—if you hear something you like, add it to your library.