Nowadays Olympia rappers are a dime a dozen. Few have been here, and still remain, since the scene REALLY started popping off in the early 2000s. In the '90s we got an occasional Andre Nickatina or Digital Underground show, but when the new century came around promoters were ready to take a chance on our small city, bringing big-name acts through on a consistent basis to legit clubs and venues.

A difficult task at the time for these promoters was not only finding talented local artists, but ones they could count on to help promote the shows in exchange for an opening spot on the bill. One artist that quickly proved capable in this department was a skilled rapper by the name of Puget.

At the fresh age of 20, it was obvious that Puget's lyrics and grind were further developed than a lot of other artists in the area. Not only did this help him get his name out right away, it caught the attention of other artists and promoters making Puget a popular choice to be a part of their event.

Seven years later Puget continues to build his name in the South Sound area with a strong passion for hip-hop, a non-stop grind and by releasing albums, EPs and mixtapes on a regular basis. Puget released a full-length with his group Diatribe in ‘07, an EP in ‘08, another in 2010 and has just released his latest effort, We Stay Lifted, which is some of his best work to date in his career.

Puget's standout talent and drive have led him to the place he's at now. He continues to impress not only his listeners, but also the local promoters looking for a full package hip-hop artist to take part in their shows.

Saturday, Feb 4,Puget will share the stage with Andre Nickatina at the Capitol Theater. And on Thursday, Feb 16, word has it Puget will do the same with Brotha Lynch at The Royal Lounge.

While Puget's knack for self-promotion and raw hip-hop talent have gotten him into these situations, his live show is something he has obviously been working on over the years. With the help of DJ Sidetrack and other live musicians, increasingly his performances are giving people another reason to become a fan.

[Capitol Theater, Andre Nickatina with Xperience, Puget, Q-Storm, Saturday, Feb. 4, 8 p.m., all ages, $20, 206 Fifth Ave., Olympia, 360.754.6670]