PaperTrails
A living archive of those shaping what’s next.

PaperTrails is our evolving logbook of underground artistry from around the globe—a curated space where stories, sounds, and visuals leave their mark. Introduced by PaperTag’s Detroit Hub Lead Jamal Jordan, this initiative was created to expand our reach and representation, making sure that the diverse voices shaping underground culture aren’t just seen, but felt.

At its core, PaperTrails is about visibility, legacy, and connection. Every entry in the archive offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of underground scenes—highlighting the artists, collectives, and creators pushing culture forward on their own terms. Whether you're here to discover something new or to revisit something that moved you, we hope you find inspiration in this ever-growing trail of creative footprints.

PaperTrails in 2020

  • Sevana

    Sevana is a singer, actress, and model from Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, on Jamaica’s west coast.

    Written by: Jamal Jordan, Detroit Hub

    Read More

  • Cleo Sol

    Cleo Sol grew up in the Ladbroke Grove part of West London with her Serbian-Spanish mother and Jamaican father. Most of her musical influences, namely Motown, Reggae, Latin, and Acid Jazz, derive from her parents who originally met in a jazz band.

    Written by: Jamal Jordan, Detroit Hub

    Read More

  • Erica Cody

    Erica Cody is an amazing singer-songwriter with a long list of accolades to back it up. Her musical career began at the age of 15 when she performed as the supporting act for WizKid. 

    Written by Jamal Jordan, Detroit Hub

    Read More

  • saib.

    saib. specializes in a popular new genre of music called Lofi Hip-Hop. His style revolves around jazzy hip-hop beats with subtle Japanese influences, similarly to Japanese producer Nujabes.

    Written by Jamal Jordan, Detroit Hub

    Read More

  • Shay Lia

     Shay Lia was born in France and raised in Djibouti. At the age of 18, she moved to Montreal and began immersing herself in the music community within Canada while studying music at UQAM.

    Written by Jamal Jordan, Detroit Hub

    Read More

  • BenjiFlow

    BenjiFlow grew up in a musical Caribbean family and also played keyboards in church. This Edmonton artist emerged on the music scene in 2018.

    Read More

  • Jane Macgizmo

    Jane Macgizmo, whose real name is Denieze Anderson, was born and raised in Mandeville, Jamaica, and she primarily works within the indie reggae genre. Macgizmo‘s music commemorates her rich history and deep love for Jamaica.

    Written by: Jamal Jordan, Detroit Hub

    Read More

  • SOMADINA

    SOMADINA was born in Lagos, Nigeria, but she frequently travels back and forth from Lagos to the UK. According to her blog, SOMADINA became a feminist advocate due to gender inequality within her own community.

    Written by: Jamal Jordan, Detroit Hub

    Read More

  • Little Simz

    Little Simz is a rapper from Islington, London, who is taking the rap game by storm. Her earliest body of work was the STRATOSPHERE – EP in 2010.

    Written by: Jamal Jordan, Detroit Hub

    Read More