New Music Roundup (February 17th - February 21st)

1. PARTYOF2 – all 4 the best

The captivating LA based group grouptherapy. returns to music as a duo aptly named PARTYOF2. Today they announce their highly anticipated debut project in their thrilling new form, we owe you an explanation, which is slated for release on March 14th via Def Jam Recordings. In celebration, they share their explosive track “all 4 the best” alongside a striking companion video directed by Andrpw. Fully produced by both members SWIM and Jadagrace, they deliver a dynamic track that serves as their most transparent work to date, revealing their deeply personal journey together and their beautiful arrival to self. The track gives a glimpse into the DNA of the new project which introduces a new era for the duo that is driven by a deep exploration of self and their journey of personal growth – all of which is soundtracked by a new future-facing sound. 

we owe you an explanation houses a collection of songs rooted in immense vulnerability and truth, a continuation of their one-of-a-kind transformative art that has captured the hearts of millions across the globe. With this new project, the duo reveals a body of work that soars supreme with a new sonic canvas that thrills and exists like nothing else out right now. Establishing a fruitful new dynamic as a pair, Jada and SWIM threw themselves fully into the new recording process which proved to be a catalyst for their own healing and personal development during a challenging period in their lives. The duo pushed themselves sonically, unveiling a new universe that brilliantly marries the sounds they grew up on and what they envision the future of music may reveal. It features splatters and brushstrokes of rock, electronic music, trap, R&B, and pop to complete an ever-evolving portrait.

Additionally, the duo will be performing in Los Angeles on February 21st at the Moroccan Lounge in support of the families affected by the Los Angeles area fires last January, the 100% of the revenue will go to support those affected by the fires. The show, presented by Cusp and That Good Sh*t, also brings performances by Amindi, Asha Imuno, Nakel Smith, and CHLOTHEGOD. You can find more information and link to the tickets HERE. 

The release follows the group’s breakout album i was mature for my age, but i was still a child, which quickly established the young group as one of today’s most exciting new musical acts. The project featured a string of dynamic songs spanning across sonic realms rooted in radical self love, resilience and the power of their deep friendship, establishing an extraordinary world of their own creation. Throughout their entire catalogue, they have become highly celebrated for art that surpasses the confines of genres and one that is rooted in love, unrelenting passion, a refreshing desire to grow and embraces the dualities that make up their DNA – it not only thrills but also provides belonging to those on the margins. The entirety of their work has received widespread tastemaker praise from The New Yorker, Rolling Stone, i-D, BET, The FADER, Teen Vogue, Ebony, Paper Magazine, Clash, Stereogum and more. Beyond stacking up tens of millions of streams, they already have explosive collaborations with Baby Tate, Tinashe, and Rejjie Snow under their young belts.

2. Kosha Dillz – Time For A Conversation 2

If there is anything Kosha Dillz is a master at, it’s managing to find a way to speak up for his side.

Since Kanye went on his first rant, Kosha dropped a diss record called Death Con 3 that reached millions of people from twitter to instagram and youtube.

When Macklemore came out last spring, Kosha responded with “Time For A Conversation” offering the fellow rapper an Israeli perspective.

On his new song “Time For A Conversation 2”, Dillz begins addressing Macklemore’s “Fucked Up.” but adds a lot more to the social commentary mix with heavy bars, including the Super Bowl protestor, Kanye and his Swastika T-shirt sale. , Horseshoe theories, as well as Elon Musk, the break of the ceasefire, and the remaining hostages in Gaza. If there is one thing for certain, Kosha Dillz continues to stand on his experience and history, having been to Israel five times since the war started, interviewing Israelis and Palestinians alike. 

3. Durand Bernarr – BLOOM

Fresh off his first GRAMMY nomination, Durand Bernarr returns with his highly anticipated third studio album, BLOOM, available worldwide. Following the release of his electronic funk-infused single “Impact” and its captivating visualizer, BLOOM marks the next phase of his evolution. A deeply personal body of work, the album is a tribute to love in all its forms—friendship, self-discovery, and the communities that shape us—offering an intimate reflection on connection, growth, and the spaces where love flourishes.

At its core, BLOOM is a study of transformation, embracing the highs and lows of self-discovery, love, and the connections that shape us. The album invites listeners on a deeply personal journey, weaving together themes of resilience, rekindled bonds, and the freedom found in embracing life’s uncertainties.

“BLOOM is me in full color—raw, sentimental, and completely unfiltered. My parents made sure I knew my voice mattered, and that foundation shaped not just who I am, but the music I create,” says Durand. “This album is about growth—discovering love beyond romance, cultivating self-acceptance, and thriving in the spaces that allow us to bloom. Traces of Phyllis Hyman, Luther Vandross, Maxwell, Chanté Moore, and Missy Elliott are woven into the fabric of the album. It’s laughter, it’s anxiety, it’s frustration, it’s triumph—it’s all the things that make us human. And at the heart of it, BLOOM is an invitation to embrace every part of the journey.”

With a unique blend of heartfelt lyricism and experimental production, BLOOM strikes a delicate balance between resilience and vulnerability. From the opening track “Generous”, which serves as a powerful anthem for strength through adversity, to “Home Alone”, an ode to the unwavering support we receive from the people we love, the album chronicles a wide spectrum of emotional experiences. It’s an album for those who are navigating both the beauty and messiness of growth—whether it’s in relationships, self-identity, or life in general.

The meditative “Reaching” surrenders to the tension between rest and responsibility, while “PSST!” offers a moment of accountability for friends veering off course. Emotional depth takes center stage in “Here We Are,” contrasting the anxious intensity of “BLAST!” and the triumphant energy of “THAT!” featuring T-Pain, where personal growth is met with resistance. With contributions from Claude Kelly, Chuck Harmony, BK, and Alana, BLOOM is a fearless testament to Durand Bernarr’s artistry—an evolution in sound, spirit, and self that solidifies his place as one of the music industry’s most compelling voices.

4. GIGI – Fumbled Me

Velvet-voiced storyteller GIGI is back with her latest single, “Fumbled Me,” the second release off her upcoming EP Waves of it. After making waves with her debut solo single “Diamonds Dancing” — an anthem of resilience and self-worth set to the glow of early 00s R&B nostalgia — GIGI shifts gears, channeling heartbreak and disappointment into a soulful, gut-wrenching tune. Listen to “Fumbled Me” HERE and watch the video HERE via Warner Records. 

“Fumbled Me” is the sound of love slipping through careless fingers. Over a hypnotic blend of smooth melodies and aching lyricism, GIGI lays bare the pain of realizing your worth too late. “Had to know when you sleep, you ain’t dreamin’ bout me / Came to me with your baggage, should’ve left it at the door,” she croons in the first verse, setting the tone for a deeply personal reckoning. 

Bathed in moody lighting, the accompanying video finds GIGI alone in an intimate apartment setting, lost in the raw emotion of her performance. The simplicity of the visuals allows every lyric to land with weight, as she delivers the song with an aching vulnerability that lingers long after the final note.

GIGI explains, “The inspiration behind “Fumbled Me” is simply truth-telling… it’s a story of love gone wrong, something almost everyone can relate to. Creating this with other like-minded creatives was incredible, as we shared bits and pieces of our own experiences to craft something so vulnerable and honest.”

The bold statement of “Diamonds Dancing” was a triumphant declaration of moving on, earning nods from Billboard, BET, VIBE, and more. Now, “Fumbled Me” captures the moment before the breakthrough—when love turns cold, and clarity hits hard. The chorus drives the message home: “Oh, why don’t you get I’m rare air to breathe? Some don’t get a chance with me… It’s so sad to see, you fumbled me.” GIGI’s emotive delivery makes every line feel like a final goodbye wrapped in silk.

This track cements GIGI’s ability to weave relatable, raw emotions into the fabric of modern R&B. With Waves of It on the horizon, “Fumbled Me” sets the stage for a project that delves deep into the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery.

5. Curren$y & Harry Fraud ft. Premo Rice – Dream Machines

Continuing the theme of their past fan favorites Cigarette Boats, The Stage, The Marina & The OutRunners (and its companion piece The Directors Cut) Regatta, VICES, Curren$y and Harry Fraud are uniting once again for a new collaborative project Never Catch Us. 

Never Catch Us will be released on 2.28.25, and the project’s first single, “Dream Machines” is now available at all DSP’s.  “Dream Machines” features an appearance from Premo Rice. 

Curren$y & Harry Fraud’s forthcoming project Never Catch Us will be released on 2.28.25.  

6. John Splithoff – Plateau/Same Page

Today, John Splithoff, singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and enigmatic musical collaborator released a new set of soulful singles, “Plateau” and “Same Page,” from his forthcoming album Far From Here (out March 21 via Virgin). Listen to the new songs HERE and pre-save Splithoff’s sophomore album HERE. 

Masterfully blending his virtuosic piano skills with a layered Western texture and longing lyrics, Splithoff created a uniquely timeless track with “Plateau,” and has released an accompanying music video with a warm, vintage aesthetic set on the open road. 

These stunning songs follow the release of the romantic R&B-leaning song “Tangled” and the more atmospheric, funk-pop song “Magenta (Days Go By),” the perfect introduction to Splithoff’s eclectic yet cohesive new sound. His highly-anticipated record Far From Here draws on classic soul, pop, jazz, and R&B, showcasing one of the most soothing and soulful voices of his generation, with arrangements often focused on his voice and just piano/guitar, a sound he wanted to recreate after performing the tracks solo on tour. Mostly self produced by John, his voice and musical approach recalls the icons of music from Michael McDonald to Sade, as well as its more celebrated innovators like Benny Sings and Mk.Gee. 

In support of the new record, Splithoff will tour the US, with dates including New York’s Racket, Los Angeles’s Troubadour, Nashville’s Exit/In, Washington D.C’s Union Stage, Chicago’s Outset, and more. Tickets on sale now, for more info visit: https://www.johnsplithoff.com/tour.

7. Milena Casado – Resilience/Circles (Retrospection)

Today, Milena Casado, trumpeter, composer, and producer, announces her debut album Reflection of Another Self due out May 16 via Candid Records.  Alongside the announcement, she released two singles, “Resilience,” and a shorter interlude “Circles (Retrospection)”  – listen & pre-order the album here. 

“Resilience” is an adventurous, modern track that highlights Casado’s production prowess, with vocal loops, spoken word, and her wailing, lyrical trumpet. About “Resilience,” she says “This song is about pushing through. Moments of doubt, moments of struggle – we all have them. But resilience is finding the strength to keep going. Don’t give up. Don’t let anybody stop you. Believe in yourself. Dream. Laugh. Be happy.”

Reflection of Another Self is a stunning first statement that is sonically adventurous and a deeply personal exploration of her identity, overcoming personal traumas including experiencing racism growing up in Spain and grappling with her dual heritage, among other profound topics.  It is an adventurous and bold statement from a newcomer who has been honing her skill with luminaries and biding her time, constructing a debut album fit for someone destined to upend the jazz world. 

Casado has already generated incredible buzz in recent years through her work with Terri Lyne Carrington, Vijay Iyer, Aaron Parks, Kris Davis, and other guiding forces in the music world. Reviewing a set by the pianist Zacchae’us Paul, the New York Times wrote, “Milena Casado, was a revelation.” She was recently featured in the New York Times’ “5 Minutes to make you love Brazilian Jazz.” (Read here) 

To start, Reflection of Another Self is a deep dive into one woman’s personal traumas and her journey in processing them and understanding forgiveness. But those stories — of facing down prejudice, of a journey of self-discovery, and ambition — are also profoundly universal. To tell her story, Casado pursues a visionary concept. Reflection of Another Self is a layered and immersive blend of dreamlike, cinematic electronic textures with outstanding organic performances. 

Co-produced by Casado with “one of her biggest mentors and friends,” the drummer Terri Lyne Carrington, and the wizardly multi-instrumentalist Morgan Guerin, Reflection of Another Self boasts a dream team of special guests: harpist Brandee Younger, flutist Nicole Mitchell, pianist Kris Davis, sound artist and turntablist Val Jeanty and the MC Kokayi. Meshell Ndegeocello stops by to lay down a bassline on “Self Love,” the meditative closer of pure uplift. Alongside these artists is a core band including some of the finest improvising musicians in the game: pianist Lex Korten, bassist Kanoa Mendenhall, drummer Jongkuk Kim, and Morgan Guerin on EWI. 

Of course, Casado, a fluidly virtuosic player who attacks a groove with the graceful power of a champion boxer, could have crushed a more conventional acoustic jazz debut. “But that wasn’t what I wanted to do,” she says. “I was really trying to find these sounds that I had in my head, that I hadn’t really heard yet, and see how I could mix them with an acoustic sound, drawing inspiration from Miles’ quintet with Wayne Shorter — especially the Miles Smiles LP.”  

Reflection of Another Self is the most important achievement yet in Casado’s career, but it’s also the beginning of a bold new aesthetic. “When I began this album, I had all these expectations: It’s my first album; It needs to express exactly who I am” she says. “But now I see that it’s really just the starting point of a long exploration.”
 

8. iann dior – Nothing Ever Good Enough II

Multi-platinum genre-blurring artist iann dior is back with Nothings Ever Good Enough II, the awaited sequel to his 2019 breakout EP, arriving today, February 21, via Big Noise. Featuring collaborations with DC The Don and Lil Skies, the project expands on the themes of love, loss, and self-discovery that first put dior on the map—now with a sharper, more evolved perspective.

The original Nothings Ever Good Enough introduced listeners to dior’s signature blend of melodic rap and emo-infused storytelling, setting the stage for his meteoric rise. Now, five years later, Nothings Ever Good Enough II revisits that world with a deeper intensity, exploring relationships that exist on the extreme ends of a spectrum—chaos or redemption, euphoria or emptiness.

Sonically, the EP captures dior at his most raw and unfiltered, seamlessly weaving between atmospheric highs and gut-punching lows. With eight tracks mirroring the structure of its predecessor, Nothings Ever Good Enough II serves as both a continuation and a rebirth, showcasing an artist who has weathered success, heartbreak, and self-doubt, only to come out stronger. The aesthetic of the project is equally telling, centering around a lone character in an oversized furry trapper hat, tie, jeans, and boots—an armor for navigating emotional chaos and a reflection of the internal battles that fuel his music. Will he break, or break free?

Beyond the studio, dior is gearing up for a massive year ahead, set to hit the road on a 2025 U.S. headline tour, kicking off April 9 in Mesa, AZ. Fans can expect an electrifying set blending career-defining hits with fresh cuts from the new EP, including festival appearances at BottleRock in Napa, CA and Warped Tour 2025 in Long Beach, CA. Full tour dates and ticket information can be found at ianndior.komi.io.

9. Burna Boy – Update

GRAMMY® Award-winning icon Burna Boy infuses Afrobeats with a rush of energy on his head-nodding and hypnotic new single “Update” out now via Spaceship/Bad Habit/Atlantic Records. It brings the world one step closer to the arrival of his mega-anticipated eighth studio album and what promises to be the biggest African music event of 2025, No Sign of Weakness, coming this summer. 

Produced by P2J (Beyoncé, Tems) and built around a sample of the iconic club classic “Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)” by Soul II Soul featuring Reggae Philharmonic Orchestra, the track teems with anthemic dancefloor-ready energy. The shuffling beat and organic drums kindle a simmering groove, and Burna Boy’s fluid delivery echoes with charisma and swagger. Between the instantly recognizable chant, he delivers his own party-ready refrain perfect for the 21st century and beyond. The official visual, helmed by UAX, brings the poignant concept of No Sign of Weakness to life through a series of striking vignettes where Burna Boy rises above his naysayers.

Burna Boy kicked off 2025 with a bang and shows no signs of slowing down. In January, the multiplatinum superstar was nominated for World Artist of the Year at the 2025 iHeart Radio Music Awards. On April 18, 2025, Burna is set to headline at the Stade de France, the largest venue in France – marking a major milestone in his musical career. Most recently, he was crowned the first-ever cover star of Billboard France – read his illuminating cover story HERE.

December 2024 saw the release of his triumphant track “Bundle By Bundle” which has amassed over 15 million Spotify streams and 7 million YouTube views on its music video. Inciting tastemaker applause, Billboard marveled at how, “‘Bundle by Bundle’ bottles the energy of the late-night parties in his native Nigeria during the holidays.” UPROXX declared it “a new musical era,” and NME christened it “energetic, party-inspired.” Produced by award-winning hitmaker Telz, “Bundle By Bundle” will also be featured on album No Sign of Weakness. Listen to “Bundle By Bundle” HERE.

The release capped off another monumental year for the global giant. TIME touted him on its coveted “The 100 Most Influential People of 2024,” going on to profess, “He is history in the making. Now a whole generation of young people from the continent is looking up to him.” Expanding his impact, he joined forces with Coldplay on “We Pray” featuring Little Simz, Elyanna and Tini from Moon Music, which earned a #1 debut on the Billboard 200 chart. He delivered a performance at Glastonbury that resonated around the world – rated “4 stars” by The Guardian who declared, “Burna is electrifying.” He headlined the 16-city  I Told Them…Tour, selling out arenas and stadiums across North America. The superstar earned a nomination for Top African Artist at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards and his smash hit “Higher” was nominated for Best African Music Performance at the 67th Annual GRAMMY® Awards.

10. Poiison – Overtime

Rising genre-blending artist Poiison returns with her latest single, “Overtime,” a gripping, melodic rap anthem that captures the weight of ambition, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of success. With her signature mix of moody, atmospheric production and raw, emotional lyricism, Poiison blurs the line between vulnerability and power, making every bar hit with intention. Listen HERE

A Queens, NY native, Poiison’s roots in music run deep. She started playing drums in church at just eight years old, later commanding the stage in her school’s musical by fifth grade—early signs of the commanding presence she brings today. Since then, she’s sold out shows, headlined the “You Could Die From This” tour, opened for 50 Cent, and worked with Styles P, Sha Money XL, and Cash Cobain.

Sonically, “Overtime” leans into brooding, hypnotic melodies layered with Poiison’s introspective yet cutting rap delivery—a sound that lives somewhere between hip-hop’s raw storytelling and the eerie, alternative-leaning energy of artists who push beyond genre norms. Drawing inspiration from Madonna, Sade, Rick James, Lil Wayne, and Travis Scott, Poiison’s music exists in a space that’s both deeply personal and undeniably magnetic.

“This record is all about pushing through, trusting the process, and staying locked in until you see results,” says Poiison. “I wanted to make something that speaks to the grind but still makes you feel something real.”

With “Overtime,” Poiison isn’t just dropping another track—she’s pulling listeners into her world, where ambition meets emotion, and the hustle never stops.

11. Jastin Martin – 28 Degrees in Houston

Today, Jastin Martin, the minimalist trap-soul singer-songwriter, producer and emerging soulful voice from Houston, Texas, shares “28 Degrees in Houston” out now via Def Jam Recordings.

12. Makua & Wiz Khalifa – Clear the Air

Grammy-nominated rapper Wiz Khalifa and world champion surfer-songwriter Makua have teamed up with Ozium to drop“Clear the Air,” – a bold new single and music video challenging cannabis stigma while celebrating their shared passions for music, surfing and cars.

For over 50 years, Ozium has  been a trusted name in air care, originally designed to combat airborne bacteria rather than just mask odors. Over time, it became a go-to for cannabis enthusiasts, earning more than 50 hip-hop shoutouts– including one from Wiz himself. 

Now, Ozium’s“Clear the Air” campaign – developed with independent creative agency Madwell– embraces this cultural legacy. “This campaign is all about authenticity,” says John Rabenhost, CEO of Niteo Products. “Wiz and Makua embody the brand’s deep-rooted connection to music, lifestyle and self-expression.”. 

“Clearing the air isn’t just about smoke – it’s about energy, good vibes and keeping things fresh,” Wiz Khalifa said. “I’ve been rocking with Ozium forever, so this just made sense. Whether you’re in the studio, in the car, or just chilling, you gotta keep the air right.” 

Ozium campaign also includes a sweepstakes for exclusive merch featuring one-of-a-kind jewelry crafted by the bling legends at If & Co — who also created the Ozium bracelet adorned by Wiz in the music video.

“Back in the day when we were considered ‘bad boys’, our days were surf, sing, smoke, repeat,” said Rothman. “Back then it was not only taboo, but illegal, and Ozium was always there to clear the air. Nowadays, we use it to rid our lives of all the insane kid smells ravaging our house and home. Thank you for always being there to clear the air for us, Ozium!” 

Watch the music video and enter the jewelry giveaway HERE.

13. JonoJono – Good Guys

Rising Alternative R&B artist JonoJono is set to captivate listeners with his highly anticipated single, “Good Guys.” Marking his debut release through UnitedMasters, the track delves into the nuanced emotions of being a “good guy” in a world that often overlooks their struggles. With heartfelt lyrics and a raw vulnerability, JonoJono reminds us that good guys really do exist—and that their journey is often harder than most.

“Good Guys” is a soul-stirring anthem blending smooth vocals, emotive storytelling, and the innovative production style that fans of the genre have come to adore. Its confessional tone paints a vivid picture of heartbreak, self-reflection, and the universal quest for love and validation. With lyrics like:

“You make me feel / like good guys really exist / But yoooo it can’t be real / I had to run away from it…”

JonoJono invites listeners to explore the bittersweet moments of falling for someone who doesn’t reciprocate their goodness. It’s an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt undervalued or taken for granted in relationships—a theme that resonates deeply with his growing fanbase.

JonoJono describes the inspiration behind the track: “I wanted to write something that speaks to the good guys
who often feel unseen. Sometimes we give our best, only to end up questioning ourselves. This song is for
everyone who’s ever felt like they weren’t enough when, in reality, they were too much of the right thing.”

The single’s melodic richness and heartfelt lyricism draw comparisons to the introspective stylings of Frank Ocean and the soulful experimentation of James Blake. Fans of genre-defining pioneers like Solange and Miguel will also find themselves right at home in JonoJono’s sonic world.

14. BLKWTR – Temporary

Award-winning Alternative Urban duo BLKWTR has released their latest sinlge ‘Temporary.”

“Temporary” was written by Stevie Notes and co-written and produced by Erick Walls. “Temporary, holds a deeply personal significance for BLKWTR, drawing inspiration from a true story,” mentions the duo. While the band’s music typically explores a range of perspectives, this track is rooted in the experience of lead singer Stevie Notes, whose wife, and the band’s first manager, tragically passed away before they’re full potential came to fruition. The song reflects the bittersweet beauty of life’s fleeting moments, honoring the lasting impact of her love and support, which, though temporary, played a crucial role in the band’s journey.

“We hope that anyone who hears this song will feel a sense of community, especially those who have experienced the loss of someone or something they love. Additionally, we aim to inspire a sense of urgency in cherishing the people around you while you still have the chance,” adds BLKWTR.

BLKWTR’s forthcoming debut album, “BLKWTR” will be released later this March, under the new label partnership with the SRGILS Group (Virgin Music/Universal Music Group).

15. Alex Sampson – Used To You

Buzzing singer, songwriter, and vocal powerhouse Alex Sampson returns with a seismically catchy brand new single entitled “Used To You” out today via Warner Records – listen HERE.

“‘Used To You’ is one of the first songs I wrote when I got back into the studio following America’s Got Talent. It’s one of my all time favorites! The track is super fun to perform live and it’s got such a good energy to it. I hope ‘Used To You’ puts a smile on everyone’s face while they listen,” says Alex Sampson. 

The track seamlessly integrates live guitar and head-nodding percussion into a dynamic electronic soundscape. This unpredictable backdrop perfectly complements a knockout performance from Alex, who showcases the breadth of his jaw-dropping range once again. He alternates between vulnerable verses and vital choruses uplifted by a skyscraper-sized high register. He admits, “I’ll never get used to you,” continuing, “It’s always something new when it comes to you.”

Alex recently wrapped a string of North American tour dates, supporting Jamie Miller. Next month, he will join Jamie Miller on his European tour. See full list of dates and purchase tickets here. 

Last year, he dropped his highly anticipated sophomore EP, Hopeless Romantic. Alex also appeared on America’s Got Talent where he performed songs such as “If You Were My Girl,” “Pretty Baby,” and “Wallflower.” Watch his live performance of “If You Were My Girl” HERE, “Pretty Baby” HERE and “Wallflower” HERE. 

16. SAINt JHN – Festival Season

Today, Grammy award-winning musician SAINt JHN announced the release of his new album, Festival Season, which is available to stream on all platforms HERE. The album marks his first full project in four years, and he’s kicking off the next chapter of his career with the exciting announcement of his signing to ROC Nation distribution.  

With Festival Season, SAINt brings a bold, genre-blending music experience that spans 18 tracks, fusing rap, R&B, alternative, and Afrofusion. The album opens with the high-energy single “Poppin” (produced by Tay Keith) and continues to showcase his fearless musical vision. Songs like the introspective “Loneliness,” recent released songs like “Glitching” (currently #4 on VEVO’s Top 10 EDM chart) and the alternative pop sensation “Circles” (trending at #9 on VEVO’s Top 10 Alternative chart) solidifying his place as one of the most versatile and boundary-pushing artists today. 

In addition to the album release, SAINt is embarking on his highly anticipated Festival Season North American tour, kicking off on March 22^nd in Boston. The tour will hit major cities like New York City, Houston, San Francisco, Chicago, Detroit, Toronto, and more. Tickets are currently available for purchase on SAINt JHN Tickets, 2025 Concert Tour Dates | Ticketmaster. The tour follows his confirmation to perform at Coachella 2025 and promises to bring an electrifying performance. 

SAINt is offering fans an exclusive CD edition of Festival Season, providing collectors and dedicated supporters with a tangible piece of his latest era. The limited edition is available for purchase here. 

Festival Season serves as SAINt’s first album since November 2020 when he released While the World Was Burning which was critically acclaimed. The album included collaborations with Kanye West, Future, Lil Uzi Vert, Kehlani, and more. That album also featured his global smash hit “Roses (Remix),” which reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. 

He has proven to be a multifaceted force over the course of his career, creating anthems such as “Roses” and “Trap” as a solo artist, collaborating with Beyonce on the smash hit “Brown Skin Girl” and penning powerful songs for Usher. 

Beyond music, SAINt JHN has proven himself as a culture innovator. He is the creator of the fashion brand Christian Sex Club and has made his mark in the fashion world, attending both Paris Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week. His creative influence stretches far beyond the studio, shaping trends across industries. 

17. Jenna Raine – 21

Today, rising pop artist Jenna Raine celebrates her 21st birthday in style with new single “21” out now via Warner Records. Listen HERE!

About the song, she shares, “The past few years I’ve had this fear of getting older, which I think a lot of people my age can relate to as they leave their teenage years. But as I turn 21, I’m realizing it’s supposed to be such an exciting age and there’s still so much more life to experience. I wanted to write a song to remind myself that I don’t need to take growing up so seriously, and hopefully it can be a reminder to others as well.”

The song illuminates the ebb and flow of her bright, upbeat songcraft. She repeats a positive reminder like a mantra, “Every little thing’s gonna be alright. Every little thing’s gonna be just fine.” On the breezy chorus, she assures and accepts, “And it’s okay if I mess things up just because it’s fun. Guess that’s twenty one.”

Jenna’s star continues to rise. Her 2024 hit “Roses” has amassed over 619 million views across platforms and more than 46.2 million streams to date. She most recently dropped a collaborative version of the track featuring Nashville singer-songwriter Avery Anna, which Girls’ Life applauded, “their new track is everything we didn’t know we needed.” Next up, she’s kicking off 2025 with a run of European tour dates supporting David Kushner, beginning on February 26. Click HERE to see the full list of dates and purchase tickets.

Jenna Raine takes life’s little lessons, moments of bliss, and unforgettable memories and turns them into the kind of pop music that you’ve got to sing with the windows down. The Dallas, Texas-born singer and songwriter continues to enchant audiences everywhere with her personal lyrics and infectious hooks, tallying north of 361 million total streams to date. With previous viral hits like “It Is What It Is” and “see you later (ten years)” (over 211 million streams combined), Jenna’s breakout success has led to a performance at the 2023 MTV VMAs Block Party, recognition from Rolling Stone, Billboard, and V Magazine, and a cover feature in Girls’ Life Magazine. She has also collaborated with artists like Australian Christian artist Aodhán King on “Still Worthy” and Joshua Bassett on “Don’t Let Me Down.”

Stay tuned for more from Jenna Raine very soon.

18. HDBeenDope – Move

19. AZ Chike – WhatX2

Warner Records proudly welcomes South Central’s burgeoning AZ Chike (pronounced AY-ZEE CHYKE) to the roster. Kicking off this new chapter, the rising West Coast rapper delivers his scorching Warner Records debut single, “Whatx2” with an equally blazing video featuring baby goats. The track re-affirms the impact of the massive features he pulled off in 2024, lacing standout verses on two of the year’s hottest Hip Hop albums—Kendrick Lamar’s GNX and ScHoolboy Q’s Blue Lips. Listen HERE and watch the video HERE.

On “Whatx2,” AZ Chike’s sharp delivery cuts through a sea of bouncing bass, eerie synths, and panning percussion. With icy punchlines, enunciated bars, and a deep distrust of those around him, he makes it clear that he moves differently. As the beat rides out—leaving behind a trail of broken rivals, hearts, and budgets—he seems untouchable. “Tim Hinshaw bringing me in at Warner and having a sit down with Aaron Bay-Schuck was the best decision I could have made following up all my current success. I love how in tune they are with the culture and Hip Hop. It feels like I’m supposed to be here, the stars are aligning, and I’m happy they are a part of that alignment,” says AZ Chike of his new partnership with Warner Records.

“We are thrilled to welcome AZ Chike to Warner Records at such a pivotal moment in his career. As an artist who has built incredible momentum over the past year, Chike, who was brought in by our partner Tim Hinshaw (Free Lunch), has already captivated audiences and proven his impact,” says Aaron Bay-Schuck, co-Chairman & CEO, Warner Records. “His talent, vision, and artistry have set him apart, and we are honored to support and help bring his music to an even larger global audience.” 

Directed by Stacking Memories (Peysoh, Wiz Khalifa, 310babii), the “Whatx2” video embraces the beat’s low-key surreality, mixing grit and glitz from scene to scene. In one moment, AZ Chike is stepping into a vintage Rolls Royce with a gorgeous woman at his side. In another, he’s sitting in a hallway flanked by literal goats. After the credits roll, we get a bonus snippet of an unreleased track.

AZ Chike has been one to watch, but his moment is now. Over the past year, he’s solidified his status—supporting ScHoolboy Q’s sold-out homecoming show at The Roxy, witnessing GNX hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200, and hearing Kendrick Lamar rap his “Chike E. Cheese” line from “Peakaboo” at Super Bowl LIX. But his grind started long before the spotlight. Since founding AzCult in 2013, he’s been a force in L.A.’s underground, finding viral fame with 2017’s “Burn Rubber Again” (25M+ of SoundCloud plays), rolling out his debut mixtape My World, and tearing up festival stages like Rolling Loud. Chike is also set to play Rolling Loud in Los Angeles on Sunday, March 16th.

More recently, AZ Chike’s been setting fire to freestyle sessions—see Our Generation Music, Power 106, On the Radar—while Billboard praised his 2024 single “Love Yo Weapons” for its “slick wordplay” and noted that, after his major crossover moments, “the burgeoning West Coast rhymer certainly didn’t fumble the spotlight.” Now, with Warner Records backing his vision, AZ Chike is poised to take 2025 by storm.

20. Supa King Big Pope ft. Fredo Bang – Tell On Me 2

Veteran rapper Supa King Big Pope exploded into the national consciousness when his near-decade-old hit “Tell On Me” became one of 2025’s most viral songs. Today, the Huntsville, AL native teams up with another rapper from the Deep South, recruiting Baton Rouge bigwig Fredo Bang to appear on “Tell On Me 2.” The remix appears after Fredo Bang teased his verse on socials, garnering over 2 million views across platforms. Raised on the kind of soulful street music that Supa King Big Pope was making before he was even born, Fredo is a natural fit on the song, as he slides in with a Supa King-inspired melody.

Originally released in 2016 with guest verse from Kevin Gates, “Tell On Me” earned a second wind in January 2025 after spurring several TikTok trends, rocketing the song to the top of Billboard TikTok Top 50 Chart in consecutive weeks. “Tell On Me” first started to percolate in early January, with a airplane-themed CapCut trend that allowed users to flex their creativity. The trend truly took off later in the month with a viral dance trend, in which creators on TikTok suggestively dance in bathrooms, or on doors, as Supa King poses a sincere question about the ethics of kissing and telling. The trend has since spread significantly, with celebrities like Steve Lacy, Finesse2Tymes, Coi Leray, Alex Consani, and Dess Dior, and even pets attempting the trend. Red hot Chicago rapper Babychiefdoit recorded his own remix of the song, racking up over 500k views on YouTube. Even Kevin Gates himself has tapped in. Since mid-January, the song has racked up over one million creations on TikTok and hundreds of millions of video views.

Supa King has been a fixture in Huntsville, Alabama–a city with a rich rap tradition–for more than two decades. He started his career in his teens as a member of Slowmotion Soundz, a collective best known for “Lacs & Pieces,” a collaboration with a pre-fame T.I., before making a name for himself with mixtapes and local performances. After spending some time away on drug-related charges, he emerged into house arrest in 2012, where he spent his time recording as much as he could. With help from his brothers, who were major promoters in the Northern Alabama region, Supa King earned collaborations from some of the South’s biggest stars, including Kevin Gates, who contributed to “Tell On Me” after a tour stop in 2016. Just as his career began to regain momentum, he was sent back to prison on a parole violation, where he served three more years.

A fixture in Huntsville, Alabama–a city with a rich rap tradition–for more than two decades, Supa King Big Pope started his career in his teens as a member of Slowmotion Soundz, a collective best known for “Lacs & Pieces,” a collaboration with a pre-fame T.I. After legal troubles repeatedly derailed his momentum over the years, Pope dedicated his life to providing for his family and uplifting his community, but he never stopped making music. When he learned from his nieces that his song was trending on TikTok, Supa King took the news as an unexpected blessing, and a long-delayed onramp for him back into the rap game.

Now as “Tell On Me” continues its improbable run, Supa King is ready to seize his moment. He knows he was put on this earth to rap, and after a carer full of setbacks, he is finally free to share his gift with the rest of the world.

Stay tuned for much more from Supa King Big Pope in the near future.

21. DESI TRILL ft. DJ Khaled, Cardi B, Natania and Subhi – Higher Love

DESI TRILL releases “Higher Love” (from Paramount Animation’s SMURFS Movie Soundtrack) featuring DJ Khaled, Cardi B, Natania and Subhi. “Higher Love” (from the SMURFS Movie Soundtrack) is the first single off the forthcoming Soundtrack.

Listen to “Higher Love” (from the SMURFS Movie Soundtrack) featuring DJ Khaled, Cardi B, Natania and Subhi HERE and watch the accompanying lyric video HERE.

Pre-save SMURFS Soundtrack HERE.

“I’m excited to be a part of this iconic collaboration. Growing up I remember always watching the Smurfs. It feels like a full circle moment now having children of my own who watch the Smurfs as well, and I get to be a part of the soundtrack. I’m excited to work alongside Cardi B, Natania & Subhi on “Higher Love” for this monumental movie soundtrack. It’s inspiring and looking forward to sharing our music with the world” – DJ Khaled

“Higher Love is magnetic energy about knowing and celebrating what you bring to the table, it’s self belief and confidence in who you truly are and wanting to share that frequency with the world. I’m so excited to be a part of putting out something so joyful into the universe, representing my roots and my culture alongside such incredible artists.” – Natania

“I’m incredibly grateful and beyond excited to be part of this global soundtrack alongside such amazing artists – DESI TRILL, Cardi B, DJ Khaled, & Natania. It’s an honor to bring my Punjabi roots to this celebratory track and represent my Indian heritage on such a big stage. Music is a universal language, and I can’t wait for the world to experience the energy and joy we’ve created together!” – Subhi

22. Lojay – Somebody Like You

Today, two-time GRAMMY-nominated Afrobeats singer-songwriter Lojay released a new single titled, “Somebody Like You” featuring powerhouse producer Sarz. This track, serving as the first single off Lojay’s upcoming debut album, serenades listeners with melodic acoustic guitar strums and romantic undertones while maintaining the vibrant energy of Lojay’s signature afro-fusion style as the lyrics muse over his ideal love.

“Somebody Like You” delivers a heartfelt narrative that explores the themes of love, heartbreak, and healing. With lyrics like “What if I gave you love to my ceiling / What if I bought you a couple more reasons” and “I pray I find me a spiritual woman / But if I don’t I’ll use all my time / Just looking around for / Somebody like you”, the track captures the essence of longing and hope. 

Lojay expressed his enthusiasm about the song, stating,“‘Somebody Like You’ tells a story of hope. The hope of healing and finding love again even in the darkest moments. This is one song I really enjoyed writing because it paints a picture of love, heartbreak, and healing in less than three minutes on an infectious instrumental.”

This new single marks the latest collaboration between Lojay and Sarz, the two-time GRAMMY-nominated producer who first joined forces with Lojay on his critically acclaimed debut EP LV ‘N’ ATTN, which spawned global hits like “Monalisa,” establishing them as a powerhouse pairing in the African music scene.

The release of “Somebody Like You” comes off the heels of Lojay’s recent GRAMMY nomination for “Sensational,” alongside global superstars Chris Brown and Davido. This electrifying moment not only showcased Lojay’s growing international appeal but also capped off an extraordinary year of milestones for the 28-year-old artist.

“Somebody Like You” is available now on all streaming platforms. For more information and future project announcements, follow Lojay on Instagram @lojaymusic.

23. Sh8kes ft. The Grouch – Move On

Today, published author, motivational speaker, business owner, spoken word poet, and native North Carolinian Robin “Sh8kes” Williamson shares his poignant new single “Move On”. Produced by Skii, and featuring a guest verse from the Bay Area’s own The Grouch of Living Legends. The song serves as Sh8kes’ first new release since his 2024 EP Necessary Pain.
 

“This track is about the value and power in letting go and moving on. Sometimes that’s hard to do because of the love you might have for someone, but there comes a time when we start to become harmful to ourselves with resentment. I had to learn this the hard way. It’s usually best to just let go and move on before you start to become a burden to yourself. By letting go, you make room for relationships that inspire growth, opportunities that align with your purpose, and love that nurtures your soul. It’s a bold leap into a life where you no longer settle for less but strive for the best version of yourself… I wrote and recorded this poem almost three years ago. Around this time, DJ Fresh introduced me to The Grouch. I had been a fan of his and Murs for as long as I could remember, so I asked him if he could add a verse to the record and he was more than happy to. Originally, the record had a different instrumental produced by my little brother. When I ran into an issue with getting the record cleared, I went into the lab with Skii, we came up with something different and sent it back over to The Grouch, who then put me in touch with audio engineer extraordinaire Starski, who mixed and mastered the record, and now we’re here.“

“Move On” is available on all major digital streaming platforms. Stream/purchase here.

Sh8kes will join AJ McQueen, Dizzy Wright and a host of others onstage at the first ever Music And Poetry (M.A.P.) Festival this Saturday (2/22/2025), as a part of the annual God Body Weekend in Houston, Texas.

Purchase tickets here.

24. Caldwell & Fivio Foregin – Get Out The Way

Blazing a new cross-cultural trail for 2025, rising South Carolina pop-country musician CALDWELL and Brooklyn drill pioneer FIVIO FOREIGN have joined forces on the electrifying new collaboration ‘GET OUT THE WAY’ dropping on February 20 via Plush Records, Death To Normalcy, and ADA. Produced by BillboardKiller, who has also worked with Lil Wayne, Sexyy Red, and Meek Mill, among others, platinum-selling Grammy winner Vinny Venditto (Eminem, 2Chainz, Nicki Minaj), and Caldwell himself, the track is a fearless genre-bending statement – merging Southern country sensibilities with hard-hitting New York drill energy in a way never heard before.

From the first beat, ‘Get Out The Way’ is unapologetic in its energy. Caldwell commands the track with booming confidence, tipping his cowboy hat as he lays out his Southern roots over thumping 808s and rolling hi-hats. The anthemic hook sets the tone for a high-adrenaline ride, blending country storytelling, trap beats, and drill’s unmistakable bounce. Fivio Foreign enters like a storm, flipping Brooklyn bravado into a Western showdown, delivering razor-sharp bars that fuse his undeniable drill flow with Caldwell’s anthemic country swagger. It’s a clash of cultures that feels effortless, proving that hip-hop and country music can not only collide, but can evolve together.

Caldwell, who already boasts two iTunes #1 singles, including the viral hit ‘Flyin’ Pass’, continues to push pop-country music forward with his genre-bending innovations, while refusing to be boxed in. Meanwhile, Fivio Foreign, fresh off his critically acclaimed 2024 album Pain & Love 2, and his latest hit song ‘PlaqueBoyMax’, adds another captivating collaboration to his already illustrious resume, having worked with the likes of Nicki Minaj, Kanye West, and Alicia Keys. As Caldwell gears up for his debut album later this year, ‘Get Out The Way’ stands as a defining moment in his burgeoning career so far – an explosive pop-country and drill crossover track that shatters expectations.

25. KALEO – Back Door

Today, Icelandic rockers KALEO announced the release of their highly anticipated third studio album, MIXED EMOTIONS on May 9th via Atlantic Records. Pre-order HERE. The band also announced a US tour with dates including a headline show at Red Rocks and a festival performance at Napa Valley’s BottleRock. See full dates below

Produced by GRAMMY® Award Winner Eddie Spear (Zach Bryan, Sierra Ferrell) and co-produced by frontman JJ Julius Son and GRAMMY® Award Winner Shawn Everett (The Killers, Kacey Musgraves), MIXED EMOTIONS is a landmark rock album tackling themes from ending gun violence to overcoming despair. MIXED EMOTIONS is KALEO’s most ambitious album yet and it hits hard and digs deep in its mission for us to embrace our full spectrum of emotions during these trying times. 

“The theme of MIXED EMOTIONS is kind of going through the various mood swings of life. For me, both mentally and musically,” says JJ. “I don’t like to limit myself to a specific genre and enjoy the freedom to explore where to take my songs sonically. They are each different and require different treatments and approaches. I truly feel there is something for everyone on this album.”

Today the band released a new single, “Back Door” – a brooding timeless bluesy rocker, which highlights JJ’s graveled vocal. Sharing more about the single, KALEO recalls “‘Back Door’ is a song that we’ve had for quite a while. We’d performed it live for years, therefore, many of our fans already know it and have been begging us to record it. We’re very happy to finally put it on tape and make it a part of MIXED EMOTIONS. It’s always been met with such great reception when we’ve played it and we’re really excited for more people to experience it and add to the energy we feel during the shows.”

Listen to “Back Door” HERE. Watch Visualizer HERE 

Work on MIXED EMOTIONS began in March 2023 at Blackbird Studio in Nashville, Tennessee, and was completed in between non-stop touring working with Eddie Spear in Nashville as well as Shawn Everett in LA. It is a passionate artistic statement from a band unafraid to take chances but comfortable with the unique sound they have refined over their many years on the road. “Finding time between two years of heavy touring the band put all their energy into making this album.” album producer Eddie Spear stated, adding, “JJ in particular dedicated and pushed himself to near destruction to get the vocal performances and arrangements to be as enjoyable as they are. There’s nothing better than making music with your friends and I am so proud to have helped facilitate the production of such a fantastic collection of songs.”  

Crunching guitars and pounding drums underscore the high-octane, adrenaline-fueled singles, “Rock N Roller,” and “Back Door” – songs which show us how to let the good times roll even when the times are hard. Elsewhere, KALEO displays sonic restraint, drawing inspiration from folk and American roots. On single “Lonely Cowboy” they utilize subtle plucked acoustic guitars ringing over haunting pedal steels. Slow building anthem “USA Today,” unleashes a sound more impassioned, and thought-provoking than anything the band has released to date. Throughout JJ’s distinct and inimitable vocals shine, sharing potent stories of overcoming adversity and finding peace within.

After amassing over 4+ billion global streams, 60+ international gold, platinum, and diamond certifications, countless sold-out headlining shows, plus appearances at noteworthy festivals including Coachella, Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo and more, the GRAMMY® nominated, Icelandic rockers KALEO, have proven to be a worldwide phenomenon. Known for their electrifying live performances, KALEO toured nonstop for 3 years in support of their platinum selling debut album, A/B, which spawned the megahit “Way Down We Go.” The song has since joined the Spotify Billions club with more than 1.3 billion streams and is featured in nearly 3 million TikToks, cementing it as one of the most viral tracks in the history of the platform.

On the heels of sophomore release, Surface Sounds, the band embarked on their Fight or Flight World Tour coming out of Covid. 2022 saw them perform 97 times in 92 different cities across 22 countries, selling over one quarter of a million tickets globally. KALEO recently finished their 2024 Payback Tour, selling out famed venues across the globe including Red Rocks and Wembley Arena. 2025 will see the boys touring Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, and South America before returning to North America with dates through May 2025. 

26. Lexa Gates – What You Wish For

Today, rising artist Lexa Gates releases the mesmerizing video for her track “What You Wish For.” Directed by Olivia De Camps (Tokischa, Rebecca Black, Reul) the fashion-forward visual plunges Lexa into an uncanny alternate reality.  As she waits for an appointment, surrounded by restless onlookers, the ticking clock grows louder, each second stretching into something more sinister until her name is finally called. From cryptic tests to fleeting glimpses of other patients in whimsical, dreamlike moments, the lyrics “careful what you wish for now” come to life as the unsettling visuals unfold. Watch “What You Wish For” HERE.

“What You Wish For” is featured on Elite Vessel, Lexa Gates’ critically acclaimed label debut released last fall. This deeply personal 12-track album from the 23-year-old Latinx artist takes listeners on an emotional journey, exploring themes of self-discovery, resilience, and ambition. Featuring collaborations with Alé Araya, Zelooperz, and Billy Lemos, the project made an immediate impact, debuting on both the Billboard Heatseekers chart and the Current R&B/Hip Hop Albums chart. Elite Vessel also earned praise from major outlets such as Billboard, HighSnobiety, Rolling Stone, The FADER, KCRW, and more. One of the standout moments in the album’s release was Lexa’s powerful art installation, where she spent 10 hours in a transparent box in New York City, exploring her deep connection to both her music and listeners. To date, the installation has garnered over 300 million views across various platforms. In addition, she released the video for “Alone,” bringing the installation to life alongside Lexa’s ethereal vocals on the self-produced track. Listen to Elite Vessel HERE and watch the video for “Alone” HERE.

In support of Elite Vessel, Lexa embarked on her first-ever North American headline tour, “The Elite Vessel Tour.” The US leg began on November 4th in Chicago and culminated in her hometown of New York in December. Next, she’ll take her show overseas for a four-stop European run, performing in London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin, before returning to the U.S. with newly announced dates in Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Orlando. Tickets are available HERE, with a full list of tour dates below. Already off to an impressive start this year, Lexa was announced as a performer at the Governors Ball music festival on June 7th and has been recognized as an “Artist to Watch” by several publications, including Ones To Watch, Our Generation Music, Apple Music, Complex, and more. Most recently, she made waves with KITH’s Spring 2025 Collection, recording a new single, “New York to the World,” featuring iconic rappers Fabolous and Jadakiss, with the video directed by the legendary Hype Williams. Watch HERE.

27. Bren Joy – Sunset Black

SUNSET BLACK marks the culmination of Bren Joy’s recent releases, including “WANDERING”, “NEVER WANNA LET YOU GO”, “COUTURE”, and the newly released focus track “EL DORADO”. The album weaves together influences from folk, hip-hop, Amapiano, pop, and jazz, blending seamlessly with powerful lyricism, striking vocals, and instrumentation rooted in the East Coast sound. Through an alt-R&B lens, Bren distills these elements into a cohesive, captivating, and immersive project.

The album features collaborations with Sam Barsh (Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar), Austin Brown (Doechii, SZA, Isaiah Rashad), Michael Brun (J Balvin, Victoria Monae, Ed Sheeran), Bartees Strange (Phoebe Bridgers, Paramore), and Zach Ezzy (Smino, Lil Yachty, Jordan Ward), all contributing to a unique sound that sets Bren Joy apart from his peers.

28. Caroline Romano – How The Good Girls Die

Alt-pop sensation Caroline Romano unveils her highly-anticipated EP, How The Good Girls Die, out on all streaming platforms today. This 6-track collection is a rollercoaster of raw emotion and fearless storytelling, featuring fan-favorites “Body Bag,” “Pretty Boys,” “Born To Want More,” and “IDK These Days,” alongside two electrifying new tracks, “They Say” and the poignant title track, “How The Good Girls Die.”

How The Good Girls Die explores the universal struggle of chasing perfection. “This EP is about chasing pretty things and tripping over your own dress while trying to catch them,” Caroline shares. “It’s what I know about shapeshifting, parties, hunger, and vodka. It’s swimming pools, disco balls, bruises, and bar bathrooms. It’s feeling both young and old, breaking hearts, and having your own heart shattered into a thousand pieces. This EP is about how the good girls die.”

Over the course of the EP’s 6 evocative tracks, Caroline captures the intoxicating highs and sobering lows of young adulthood. Her lyrics explore how the relentless pursuit of being extraordinary can cause you to lose sight of who you truly are. Yet, amid the chaos, her words also offer a quiet revelation: growth comes from embracing imperfection. Lyrically striking and sonically daring, How The Good Girls Die invites listeners on a raw and powerful journey through self-discovery, vulnerability, and acceptance.

Nashville-based singer and songwriter Caroline Romano has established herself as a versatile artist, effortlessly transitioning between misty-eyed ballads and fiery alt-rock anthems. Since the release of her 2022 debut album, Oddities and Prodigies, and her subsequent 2023 EP, A Brief Epic, Caroline has continued to come into her own as an artist, revealing new layers of her artistry with each new release. 

After years of captivating audiences at venues around Nashville, Caroline embarked on her first US tour last year, sharing the stage with Grayscale and Smallpools. Her meteoric rise has garnered praise from tastemakers, with Luna Collective Magazine hailing her as an “alt-pop sensation” and The Honey Pop dubbing her “the next big pop star.” As she continues her ascent, How The Good Girls Die marks a pivotal chapter in Caroline Romano’s journey to alt-pop superstardom.

29. Paris Texas – They Left Me With The Sword

After sharing a series of cryptic vignettes on social media earlier this week, Paris Texas releases its new EP, They Left Me With The Sword. The duo of Louie Pastel & Felix, who over the past week played six hometown sold out shows at Crypto.com Arena on the Chromakopia world tour with Tyler, The Creator and Lil Yachty, released the EP’s lead single “infinyte” earlier this week. The project will also be accompanied by a music video to be released soon, co-written by the duo and Dan Streit (Charli XCX, BROCKHAMPTON, A$AP Rocky), who also directed the visual.

Born in the months leading up to the duo embarking on the biggest tour of their career, They Left Me With The Sword is Louie and Felix’s first offering of new music since their surprise single “RökKOut” last Fall. The EP is a spiritual sequel to the duo’s 2021 EP Red Hand Akimbo, which included fan-favorite single “girls like drugs”. Louie and Felix are ushering in the next phase of their ever-expanding visions for Paris Texas with They Left Me With The Sword, an aggressive new anthology centered around Louie & Felix with a secret, eerily familiar voice narrating the story. The EP is a more collaborative effort than the duo’s previous projects, with longtime friends and collaborators Billy Lemos and Dilip central to it coming together.

With the all-around world-building of their two early EPs Boy Anonymous and Red Hand Akimbo, Paris Texas cemented themselves as one of the most exciting new voices in music with MID AIR, which was critically lauded by the likes of Vulture, i-D, The FADER & more. Now, they’re taking their beloved, raucous live show on tour across the globe, playing shows across North America, the United Kingdom and Europe, and Australia & New Zealand in 2025 with Tyler, The Creator and Lil Yachty.

Listen to They Left Me With The Sword above, see more EP info and all remaining dates on the Chromakopia tour below, and keep an eye out for more from Paris Texas.

30. Coco Jones – Taste

Today, GRAMMY-Award Winning powerhouse singer/songwriter and multi-hyphenate actress Coco Jones announces her highly anticipated debut album Why Not More?, which is set for release on April 25th via High Standardz/Def Jam Recordings. Previously released singles will be featured including “Most Beautiful Design” -listen here, and 2x Grammy-nominated “Here We Go (Uh-Oh)” – watch here.  Pre-order the album HERE. 

To coincide with the announcement, she shares her new single and accompanying music video for “Taste.” Produced by Stargate (Beyoncé, Rihanna) & Jasper Harris (Post Malone, Jack Harlow), “Taste” samples the iconic “Toxic” by Britney Spears and turns it into an instant R&B classic with Coco’s vocals. The tantalizing track about infatuation and attraction gives fans a bite of what else is in store for 2025.  “Taste” ushers in a new era of empowerment and connection for Coco as she gears up for Why Not More? The video is directed by Ava Rikki and showcases Coco’s sexy confidence – Watch HERE.

Coco Jones has already proven to be an R&B powerhouse, receiving seven Grammy Nominations before ever putting out a full album. Last year alone with 5 GRAMMY nominations including Best New Artist, she took home her first win for “ICU” for R&B Performance of the Year.  She was also nominated for her first ever MTV VMA Award for MTV Push Performance of the Year for the track. Most recently she added two more GRAMMY Award nominations at this year’s awards for R&B Performance of the Year and Best R&B Song for “Here We Go (Uh Oh),” which is the first track she released from the upcoming album.

31. Ayoni – 2

Igniting what promises to be an unforgettable sonic era, dynamic singer, songwriter, producer, and instrumentalist Ayoni serves up a knockout new single entitled “2” out now via Def Jam Recordings. Listen HERE.

The track revolves around jazz-y piano and punchy handclaps. Her full-bodied vocals smolder as she details the implosion of a toxic romance. In between a thumping bass line and loose electric guitar riffing, the hook hits hard as she turns the tables on a cheater, “But 2 can play too! I left the same time as you…I could play you.”

About the song, Ayoni said, “‘2’ is the sound of divine diva vengeance! Inspired by tongue-in-cheek Motown and early 2000s soul classics, this record chronicles a toxic power struggle I endured with a fellow Gemini. Although it’s petty and playful at first glance, this record gave me space to sit in my emotions and humanity. It explores the mess that ego and pride leaves in its wake. For me, it poses the question of, ‘What do I truly win if I lose myself?’ Through its creation, I have been able to challenge my perspectives on anger—especially as a Black woman—and the ways in which my anger in response to disrespect has catalyzed deeper self-discovery and self-empowerment for me. In a world uncomfortable with emotional women, I know hell hath no fury like a Gemini woman scorned. Sometimes, you have to let ‘em know, ‘2 can play too’!”

Tonight, she wraps up her run on the Michelle “A Tour For You Specifically” with a show at Music Hall of Williamsburg in New York, NY.

She capped off last year with “San Francisco” which followed Ayoni’s COLORS performance of “Bitter in Love” and released ahead of the arrival of the documentary Uncharted—which originally screened at the Tribeca Film Festival last year and is now streaming on Paramount+.

Uncharted is produced by Alicia Keys and She Is The Music and follows Ayoni’s journey and those of other BIPOC women creators in the music industry. Ayoni’s song “Purpose,” which was made during the making of the film, can be heard in the trailer and is now available to stream. Hailing from Barbados, Ayoni has emerged as a generational talent with her soaring and soulful pop / R&B vocal stylings. Having lived in Singapore, Indonesia, and the United States, she developed a global worldview, absorbing a variety of experiences, while nurturing her ever-evolving passion for creating and performing music. Ayoni has garnered millions of streams and has received widespread acclaim from prominent publications such as OnesToWatch, The Fader, Essence, V Magazine, and more. She has collaborated with other creatives such as Ricky Reed, Snakehips, Full Crate, Michael Calfan, and Kabwasa. She is a featured artist on 2 songs on Noname’s critically acclaimed Sundial album and performed the song “boomboom” with Noname on NPR’s Tiny Desk. In December 2023, she was chosen as an artist in residence for the Sofar Sounds London Residency. To kick off 2024, the songstress released a music production and vocal pack with Splice in January. In the Spring, Ayoni was the 2024 Gibson Guitar Spotlight Artist for the month of April.

32. Dave East & Ransom – The Final Call

Dave East & Ransom have now officially released their collaborative project, The Final Call, and have also released a new video for “Fairwells.”  The Final Call is now available at all DSP’s and you can watch the video for “Fairwells” Below. 

The Final Call includes collaborations with Jay Electronica, Method Man and production from V Don, MadeinTYO and Prophecy. 

“I have the deepest admiration for Brother Malcolm X.  There’s not another human that ever walked the earth that I have more respect for” Ransom asserts.  “The fact that he died basically homeless and without riches tells me everything I needed to know about the character.  The Final Call releasing on the day he was killed is me showing my appreciation in my own unique way; through the art.”

The Final Call is now available. 

33. Quavo – Trappa Rappa

Grammy-nominated recording artist Quavo has officially released his latest single, “Trappa Rappa,” via Quality Control Music/Motown Records. The new track marks his first official release of the year and follows a monumental 2024 for Quavo, during which he was honored with the Variety Hitmakers Humanitarian of the Year Award for his work with the Rocket Foundation and his efforts to combat gun violence in America. The new single is accompanied by a music video directed by Hidji, which features the QC megastar back in Atlanta reflecting on the tribulations he overcame before rising to become one of the biggest names in the rap game. Quavo originally previewed the track a few months ago during a livestream with Kai Cenat. Earlier this week, he continued to build anticipation for the single on his Instagram with a video of himself doing push-ups while talking to himself, declaring that the song was bringing his style back to his signature “Bando” flow. Meanwhile, NBA superstar Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks shared a snippet of the song on his Instagram story, alongside highlights from his weekend at the NBA All-Star Game in San Francisco.

34. The Ivy & Lyncs – Don't Fall Asleep To This

The Ivy and Lyncs are joining forces for their captivating new single & video, “Don’t Fall Asleep To This.” This release marks an exciting prelude to their upcoming North America tour, kicking off on March 25th in Albuquerque, and hitting major cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, Brooklyn, Philadelphia, and Nashville, before wrapping up in San Antonio on April 23rd.

The collaboration between The Ivy’s Wyatt Clem (vocals/guitar) and Shawn Abhari (synth/bass) and Lyncs’ Jacqueline Hynes (vocals/multi-instrumentalist) was born serendipitously during a writing trip in LA. “Don’t Fall Asleep To This” showcases the combined indie-pop brilliance of both acts, delivering a heartfelt ode to the challenges and hopes of long-distance relationships. With its blend of soothing melodies and a driving, pulsating beat, the track strikes a perfect balance—hypnotic in its intimacy yet bursting with energetic allure.

“Working with The Ivy on ‘Don’t Fall Asleep To This’ was an incredible experience,” Lyncs shares. “The song started with a mesmerizing, lullaby-like synthesizer. Initially, we leaned into that dreamy, slow vibe, but by the second day, we transformed it into something more upbeat and driving, which gave it that dynamic energy that matched both our sounds.” Reflecting on the collaboration, The Ivy adds, “The writing process felt so natural and seamless. We’re thrilled with what we created together.”

35. ILL Tone Beats & Benny the Butcher – 38 Ounces and a Mercedes

Ill Tone & Black Soprano Family prepare for the forthcoming The Outcome with a two-single Pre-Game release, which features two new singles from Benny The Butcher & Conway The Machine. 

Ill Tone’s The Outcome will feature guest appearances from Benny The Butcher, Conway The Machine, Westside Gunn, Ghostface Killah, AZ, Smoke DZA, Flee Lord, Elcamino & Jae Skeese among others.

But like any true Buffalo native, you have to Pre-Game, and Ill Tone does that with the release of two new singles, Benny The Butcher’s “36 Ounces And A New Mercedes” and Conway The Machine’s “Pick A Side.”  Both singles are now available at all DSP’s. 

Ill Tone & BSF’s The Outcome will be released on 3.7.25.

36. ILL Tone Beats & Conway the Machine – Pick a Side

37. Leven Kali – Are U Still

Multi GRAMMY® nominated for his contribution to Beyoncé’s blockbuster Renaissance, Dutch-American acclaimed artist, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer, Leven Kali releases new single “Are U Still” out now. It marks his first solo release since 2022 and his official debut for Def Jam Recordings. Listen HERE. Watch the visualizer HERE.
 
Live drums kickstart the track as harmonies flutter. In between soft piano, his warm vocals practically melt the production, alternating from laidback intonation to a bold high register. As the momentum ramps up, he repeatedly asks, “Are you still in love like I am?” The vibe flips as funky guitar locks into a bounce with handclaps. Fittingly, a wild trumpet solo acts as a cherry on top of this future-facing R&B delight.
 
Leven Kali, Multi GRAMMY-nominated for his work on Beyoncé’s Renaissance, co-wrote the standout “Bodyguard” for the latter. Of course, this continues his run as a key trusted collaborator for Beyoncé. Prior, he served as a co-writer on “Alien Superstar,” “Plastic Off the Sofa,” “Virgo’s Groove,” and “Summer Renaissance” from 2022’s Renaissance—which took home a GRAMMY® for “Best Dance/Electronic Album.”
 
Beyond these mega-collabs, his voice could be heard on genre-busting tracks like “How You Feel” with ANOTR and Erik Bandt last year. It’s no wonder FLAUNT hailed him as an “R&B prodigy” during an Outside Lands Q&A and marveled at how, “his music jumps from generation to generation of funkadelic fire.”
 
Everything just sets the stage for more to come from Leven Kali this year.

38. merchant – Tu Ta Le

39. Benicio Bryant – Gameboy

Today, 20-year-old artist and model Benicio Bryant released new single “Gameboy,” an ultimate pop bop with provocative lyrics and a parallel pulsating beat. The titillating track is from Benicio’s forthcoming debut EP POPSTAR, an unapologetic ode to pop music and pop culture.

Next up on the EP is the fun and carefree, “Gameboy”. Benicio isn’t necessarily the stay-out-at-night, club kid. He wanted to write a song for all of those kids (and adults) who party the introverted way – at home! This is for all the homebody’s out there who celebrate the school or work week with another pop culture favorite – video games. For the production, Benicio wanted to channel harsh, digital sounds to embody the digital nature of the lyrics. 

Benicio says of the writing process, “I just loved the idea of making this song a vocal trap song. Like ‘ga-a-ame.’ I liked it sounding synthetic, and very fake. Like I liked it sounding like digital. Some of the sounds are scary and abrupt, I think that’s good, it’s fun!  Pop isn’t supposed to be perfect, it’s supposed to be risky and a party.”

The future club classic follows the release of “Popstar,” a love letter to Benicio’s inner popstar and a song that rivals the divadom of Kim Petras and Dua Lipa. Channeling club beats adjacent to Troye Sivan’s and the disco retro vibes of Conan Gray, Benicio is unapologetic with his undeniable star power.

On “Popstar,” Bryant said “‘Popstar’ is being in love with the best version of you, and future versions of you. It’s looking forward to only getting better and seeing yourself grow into more of a force, imagining the possibilities. Everybody has a pop star.” 

Through working with collaborators, an abundance of time to grow post-America’s Got Talent, and life experience under his belt, Benicio is ready to unleash his first body of work in his EP POPSTAR. A dedication to pop music, POPSTAR calls to fans around the world who are glued together by the bonds of icons, bangers, and glitter. With creative, catchy melodies and earworm lyricism that mix flawlessly with the production of the tracks, this EP is bound to captivate audiences through his vibrant, bold and rich appearance and aesthetic, furthering his brand with a social presence of youthful authenticity.  

Obsessed with Lady Gaga, he posted early videos with his guitar to YouTube, catching the attention of The Voice Kids Germany and placing second on the show. In the wake of his success across the pond, America’s Got Talent invited him to audition, and he reached the finals where America embraced him and he garnered a strong, dedicated fanbase. 

Besides providing him with a young career and an early fanbase, The America’s Got Talent fame led to an automatic record deal with SYCO Records. When the label dissolved in 2020, he was handed off to another Sony label. In 2022 Bryant was dropped by his label at 19, but after a brief period of confusion and disillusionment as a young artist developing his own creative vision, he realized this was the moment for him to find his own voice and his most authentic self. 

As part of the process of discovering his creativity without any interruption, Bryant worked with an array of industry talents after parting ways with major labels. First with singer/songwriter, Audrey Mika who he teamed up with to release their smash “Move to Mars” in 2023. Next with Tommy Driscoll (Kiiara), Nick Sadler (Frawley)  Ale Alberti (Becky G, Bryce Vine, Jennifer Lopez), Will Leong (Emotional Oranges, Gallant) forming a group of inspirations and collaborators who would produce a series of his most authentic releases over the next year. He eventually met his executive producers Theo and the Climb (Paris Hilton, Red Velvet) and writer Matt Hall (Gayle, Alexander Stewart) who found that inner popstar in him again and have co-written and produced Benicio’s best work to date. 

Today, his dedicated followers have amassed 102K followers on Instagram, 65K followers on Tik Tok and over 13k followers on Spotify. His musician fans range from Kim Petras to Queen Latifah. Just this year alone, Bryant has been churning out one banger after another. “Regina” gave tributes to the Y2K classic “Mean Girls” with a smart and snarky spin of hip-hop, while summer jam “Lips” highlighted Bryant’s personal brand of electro pop. “Polite,” the latest single ahead of “Popstar,” channeled retro-disco with Bryant’s honey smooth vocal.

As an independent artist, he’s learned to express himself freely in his aesthetic, fashion, lyric and production. Now knowing himself more clearly, at 20 years old, he’s ready to show the world who he is and what he can do with POPSTAR. 

40. Isabel Pless – Workhorse

Nashville-based singer-songwriter Isabel Pless makes everyday life feel monumental with the release of her debut album Workhorse. The ten-song project spans mellow folk to headbanging pop, but her writing consistently honors each tone and notion. Isabel is your older sister reminding you of your self-worth, she is your best friend crying in your passenger seat about a breakup, and she is you wondering when things will finally start going your way — Stream. 

Produced and co-written by Ariza, each song offers a new sound and a different perspective from the last: Workhorse’s charm stems from its range. There are no right or wrong emotions, and Isabel feels them all with humor to spare. And she invites you to feel them all alongside her.

“‘Workhorse’ is the debut album I’ve been dreaming about since I started writing songs in middle school and that makes me feel incredibly fulfilled,” shares Pless. “Creating these songs helped give me perspective on my life. I feel simultaneously nervous and hopeful that now this album will make its way into other people’s lives.”

Opening with the self-titled track “Isabel,” this song arose out of a moment of need. Pless’ lyrics dictate an inner monologue that rails at people-pleasing and gives grace to imperfection. Winding our way to another standout track like “The Bite,” there’s more of a dark, spell-like energy. This essence mirrors a shift in lyrical and compositional tone from Pless’s previous works, making the song a sonic tug of war between anger and anxiety. 

By the time the listener reaches “Blonde,” Pless is her most witty and candid self. A raging, headbanging, pop-romp, Pless is backed by an entourage of electric guitars and a hefty choir of vocals, that allows the track to  maintain its drama right up until the final acoustic down-chorus. Reaching the capstone of the album’s honesty with its closing, title track, she is in a self-inflicted battle with complacency. Leaving the body of work open ended, the final line “I’m worried this is the best version of me” feels hollow but not defeated.

Today also sees the release of the official video for “I Joined a Cult.” The track examines the pattern of falling into toxic friendships and relationships, a balance of confusion and remorse. In the video Pless has a sense of childlike wonder as she tries to recruit more people into her circle, constantly seeking out connection — Watch. 

41. Kevin Olusola – Dark Winter

Kevin Olusola, the dynamic singer, cellist, and beatboxer best known for his work with the 3x-GRAMMY® Award-winning a cappella group Pentatonix, will release his debut solo album, DAWN OF A MISFIT, on May 9 via Sony Music Masterworks. The record is available to PRE-ORDER and PRE-SAVE HERE.

The multi-faceted artist previewed his new LP with the electrifying lead single “DARK WINTER,” which blends samples from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and symphonic strings with Olusola’s potent beatbox percussion, 808s & elastic R&B hooks.”

The song introduces a bit of edge for a musician often recognized for exuberant joy—and the music video for “DARK WINTER,” directed by Ron Jaramillo, follows in that spirit, following Olusola and his “Misfit Mafia” as they destroy objects from the classical tradition, including cellos, paintings, and statues. “My misfits and I are completely demolishing them,” Olusola says. “We don’t have to destroy the past, but we have to break the things that have been traditional or stereotyped in us to become exactly who we’re called to be. I want to shatter boundaries, only to bring all the pieces back together with a newfound harmony.” Watch the official music video for “DARK WINTER” HERE.

DAWN OF A MISFIT follows two EPs: The Renegade, which explored classical music and celloboxing, and Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood, which delved more into pop influences. This new LP seamlessly blends elements from both projects while continuing to expand his already-vast musical canvas. DAWN OF A MISFIT draws on his classical virtuosity and the graceful soulfulness of his vocals, partly fueled by his Nigerian and Grenadian heritage. While recording the new album, he was influenced by a diverse range of artists, including Sting, multi-hyphenate artist Jon Batiste, Nigerian musician Fela Kuti, American singer and actor Harry Belafonte, country-rap artist Shaboozey, cellist Jacqueline du Pré, pianist Harvey Lavan “Van” Cliburn Jr., and Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff.

The wide-ranging album touches on spirituality, fatherhood, and being a first-generation person in a Western country, all while fusing classical, pop, R&B, and hip-hop. It even includes a nod to Pentatonix with “Kevin’s Fifth,” a fan-favorite expansion on Beethoven’s 5th that he often performs during their live shows. The beloved quintet—who broke out after winning NBC’s The Sing-Off in 2011—have released 12 albums in total, including 2022’s Grammy-nominated Holidays Around the World. More recently, they starred in the #1 Netflix rom-com Meet Me Next Christmas.

42. Nardo Wick – Wick

Today, breakout Jacksonville rapper Nardo Wick releases his sophomore album entitled Wick via Flawless Entertainment/RCA Records – click HERE to listen. The new album includes previously released bonus tracks and features from 21 Savage, Future, Lil Baby, Sexyy Red, and Southside. In this new album, Nardo collaborated with an array of producers from ATLJacob, Go Grizzly, Southside, and others to bring their unique sounds and visions to the project. With this release, Nardo also has an official music video coming out at 12pm ET / 9am PT for his track “Hello”. The music video was directed by Dell and shot in San Francisco, CA. Wick is the return to Nardo’s original sound that put him on the map, alongside him addressing the things he’s faced since the beginning of his rise. The new 17-track album finds Nardo honing in on his unique dark, energetic sound that is unforgettable. 

LISTEN TO WICK: https://nardowick.lnk.to/WICK

Earlier this month, Nardo dropped his latest EP entitled Hold Off – click HERE to listen. Hold Off finds Nardo Wick in his distinctive rap style, which is intense and raw. His rapping style blends trap influences with a slow, gritty flow, combined with his signature ad-libs and a haunting, bass-heavy production. The EP is solely focused on Nardo’s bars and flow, having only one feature across the entire EP – Kodak Black. Ahead of releasing his EP, Nardo released his single and music video “I Wonder” – click HERE to listen / click HERE to watch. The music video was directed by Nardo and Hidji World (Latto / Metro Boomin) in Atlanta, GA and features a special cameo from female rapper Lakeyah. 

43. Sheff G – Brokey

Latto coined “brokey” as a go-to insult, but now Brooklyn drill trailblazer Sheff G is flipping the script. Refusing to let the pocket-watchers slide, the Brooklyn drill pioneer sets the record straight with his hard-hitting new single, “Brokey,” out now via Winners Circle Entertainment/RCA Records. 

Produced by frequent collaborator Great John, Sheff takes command of a dark, synth-driven drill beat, dropping gems from his come-up while schooling listeners on how to spot a “brokey”—and making sure they feel the heat.

Here’s a few indicators of a “Brokey” from Sheff himself:

• They’re praying for your downfall – they’re already mad at you for making it!

• Blowing their stash to keep up with others

• They’re boring, pump-fakers, and have no motion

“Brokey” marks Sheff’s third release of the year, following up “Panic” released earlier this month and “Bread” released last month. These two singles keep his momentum strong following the release of Proud of Myself in December. With guest appearances from Sleepy Hallow, Lil Tecca, and more—plus accolades from Billboard, VIBE, XXL, and beyond—this project marks the highly anticipated follow-up to 2022’s From The Can. Stay tuned for more new music OTW from Sheff G.

44. Fridayy – February 23

Today, GRAMMY-winning singer/songwriter and producer Fridayy released his new single titled, “February ‘23” ahead of his highly anticipated album, Some Days I’m Good, Some Days I’m Not. The track is now available on all digital streaming platforms via Def Jam Recordings. 

Fridayy’s position as one of the hottest emerging artists has been solidified by his catalog of collaborations and co-signs with some of music’s biggest names. “February ‘23” is his latest creation, seamlessly blending his captivating genre-bending sound of R&B, hip-hop, and elements of gospel. 

This new track showcases Fridayy’s vulnerability and narrates his journey from humble beginnings to acclaimed world-renowned artist. Fridayy expressed his excitement  about the collaboration, stating, “February ‘23 is a representation of the hardships and blessings that have impacted the trajectory of my career. This album is a glimpse into my journey, from the obstacles I’ve overcome to the beauty I found along the way. It captures a profound feeling of gratitude – for everything I’ve achieved, and everything that is still to come.”

In addition to the release of this single, Fridayy revealed the tracklist for his sophomore album, Some Days I’m Good, Some Days I’m Not, set to drop next Friday, February 28. This 21-track dual-sided album showcases Fridayy’s unique ability to fuse multiple genres and create a versatile and deeply personal sound that explores the highs and lows of his journey. The album includes collaborations with powerhouse artists including Chris Brown, Kehlani, Wale, Meek Mill, Teni, Llona, and a special ode to his Haitian-American roots with a Kompa collaboration featuring French-Haitian singer Joé Dwèt Filé.

Fridayy continues to push boundaries and deliver exceptional music that resonates with audiences globally across musical genres, further cementing his status as a rising force in the industry.

“February ‘23” is available now on all streaming platforms. For more information and future project announcements, follow Fridayy on Instagram @fridayy. 

45. Bakar – Searching

Returning to his physical roots in the U.K., acclaimed genre-bending artist Bakar (aka Abubakar Baker Shariff-Farr) delves into themes of a fleeing love, self-pursuit, and home in his inaugural single of 2025 entitled “Searching,” out now via Bad Habit/ADA Worldwide. Listen to “Searching” here.

Exploring the surrounding landscapes near his childhood home in Camden, the alternative juggernaut shares more than just a nod to his upbringing as exemplified by the tasteful flaunts of British Pounds covered by the gloves of his favorite local football club, Arsenal, or even the subtle, “recorded live in London” BGVs towards the latter end of the song.

A melting pot of inspiration, “Searching” – the song and visual, stand as evidence to the complex character that is Bakar as he shares more about himself in the 3 minutes and 7 seconds visual than even some of the most watchful eyes could notice.

46. Bjrnck – Club

Grammy-nominated R&B artist Bjrnck sets the mood with her latest single and music video, “Club”, out now via Geffen Records/Interscope. Over a hypnotic beat, Bjrnck’s signature smoky yet soulful vocals tell a story familiar to anyone who’s ever left the club feeling like something’s missing. It’s not about the party—it’s about craving something real.

“Club” captures that moment when the drinks stop hitting, the crowd feels empty, and you realize you’d rather be with someone who actually gets you. The track is as much for the ones inside the club as it is for those already on the way home, replaying the night in their head.

Directed by Austin “Salty” Simkins, the “Club” music video visually mirrors the track’s emotional pull, moving through a hazy, dimly lit world of fleeting moments, stolen glances, and quiet longing. The contrast between neon-lit temptation and raw intimacy highlights the song’s central theme—searching for connection in all the noise.

“This song is really a vibe that late night drive to see your bae imma put this on repeat till I get there type. I made this song for that exact moment—whether you caught a vibe with someone at the club or you’re on the way to them, this is what you put on to set the mood.” – BJRNCK

In the 48 hours leading up to the “Club” release, BJRNCK has been engaging with fans through continuous live sessions on Instagram and TikTok, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses and building anticipation for the new single. This single marks the first taste of Bjrnck’s upcoming project, a deeply personal collection of songs that dive into love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Fresh off the success of her introspective “Expresso Martini” & collaborations with Future and Metro Boomin (Drink N Dance) and Omarion (Sunny Dayz) which led her to be grammy nominated, Bjrnck is carving her lane in R&B with a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Staying true to her mission of raw honesty, the Chicago-born artist pulls back the curtain on the messy, beautiful reality of modern love. With lyrics that feel like a conversation and production that pulls you in, Bjrnck’s music is a reflection of the real, unfiltered moments we all experience. More music and surprises are on the way, and it’s clear 2025 will be the year she truly makes her mark.

47. Nao – Jupiter

Today, critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Nao releases her highly anticipated fourth studio album Jupiter via Sony Music UK/RCA Records – click here to listen. This latest project is a concept album centered around pure optimism, growth and abundance. Featuring the powerful and poignant focus track “30 Something,” Jupiter takes listeners on a transformative journey, wrapped in Nao’s signature ethereal vocals and genre-blending sound. “30 Something” is a coming-of-age anthem that reflects on the beauty of getting older, embracing the present, and letting go of the past – a theme that resonates deeply throughout the album. 

When asked about her new album, Nao states: “Jupiter is the sister album to Saturn. Where Saturn was about tough lessons and growth, Jupiter is about coming through the other side. It’s an album of hope, joy, and trust, of embracing expansion after struggle, of letting go and stepping into something greater. This music is a reflection of that freedom, a soundtrack for the moment when you realize the universe was always working in your favor.” 

Jupiter was recorded in collaboration with some of Nao’s longtime creative partners, including producers Loxe and Stint, whose musical chemistry with Nao has been refined over the past decade. Additional contributions from esteemed songwriters and musicians like Kareem James, Dyo, Soaky, Lauren Keen Dayyon, Nate Cypher, Carol Ades, Vince Kidd, Prgrssn, Grades, Scribz, Royce Wood Jr., and Toby Gadd helped shape the album’s rich sonic palette. Inspired by Jupiter’s astrological significance – symbolizing luck, joy and expansion – Nao crafted a body of work designed to uplift, inspire and bring a sense of warmth and optimism. The visual elements surrounding Jupiter have been beautifully crafted by frequent collaborator Lillie Eiger (Arlo Parks, Florence Welch), with creative direction from SpaceBroth, merging the album’s themes into a cohesive visual narrative.

To support this release, Nao will embark on a 2025 North American, UK and European tour, following her incredible performance at the MOBO Awards earlier this week. Known for her spellbinding live shows, this tour promises to bring Jupiter themes to life in an unforgettable experience across the globe. The album rollout began with a series of stunning singles and intimate, sold-out shows in Los Angeles, New York, London, and Amsterdam, all selling out within seconds. With each release, Nao built momentum for album release. This record is more than just music – it’s an experience, a sonic journey of joy, self-compassion, and boundless optimism.

48. Boldy James & Chuck Strangers – Whale Fishing

Where we at wid it!!  Boldy James, AKA, “Mr. 227” will return on 2.27.25 with a new project, Token Of Appreciation, a joint project with Chuck Strangers.  No guest features and the project is produced entirely by Chuck Strangers. 

In addition to announcing their collab project, Boldy and Chuck also released the project’s first single and visual “Whale Fishing,” which is now available at all DSP’s.

Token Of Appreciation will be released on 2.27.25 and is mixed and mastered by The Alchemist.