New Music Roundup (July 22 - July 26)

1. Jarrod Lawson ft. Raquel Rodriguez – Next Move

Nashville based Singer/songwriter and musician Jarrod Lawson has released new song featuring LA’s Raquel Rodriguez called “Next Move”. 

2. Montell Fish – DISTRACTION/SCREAM MY NAME

Today, genre-bending R&B sensation Montell Fish has released two new singles, “DISTRACTION” and “SCREAM MY NAME,” via Virgin Music. Listen to “DISTRACTION” and “SCREAM MY NAME” HERE. “SCREAM MY NAME” is already being featured in over 50,000 videos on TikTok and counting. These singles are separate from the artist’s newly announced album CHARLOTTE, which will be dropping on Friday, August 23rd. Pre-save the album HERE. Fish has also recently announced his North American tour in promotion of CHARLOTTE. The 20+ date tour will canvas the United States and Canada, beginning on September 11th in Boston, MA at Royale and wrapping on October 24th at Brooklyn Steel in Brooklyn. Tickets can be purchased HERE

Set against an electric guitar riff and ethereal melody, both of which have come to be emblematic of Fish’s sound, “DISTRACTION” finds the artist crooning “you’re such a distraction, I swear you’re made for my madness” as he struggles with being all consumed by another. It’s the push and pull we’re so used to in Fish’s music – swept up in an obsession, but aware that the outcome won’t bode well (“I can’t keep letting this happen” is the refrain we hear echoed at the end). “SCREAM MY NAME” on the other hand finds Fish showcasing his falsetto, still gleaming under a thick coating of reverb. The beginnings of madness are tangible here, with the refrain of “you haven’t screamed my name in a while” highlighting Fish’s doubt and desire for reassurance.

Separately, Fish’s upcoming album CHARLOTTE – coming Friday, August 23rd – will be a raw collection of songs that explore the highs and lows of love, ambition, and self-actualization. It probes deep into themes of memory, attachment, loss, and growth, and the psychology behind all of these human experiences. While Montell wrote the record, the continuation of the trilogy that began with Jamie (2022), Fish read about psychology, memory, and childhood; the ideas of Freud and Jung provided thoughtful stimulation as he crafted songs that explore growth and attachment—romantic and otherwise. Through lyrics relating to love, power, failure, and success – all universal to the human experience– Montell uses these themes to highlight the same feelings and situations he’s experienced since the formulation of Jamie, in regards to his own struggle with leaving his faith, and learning to lose and move on from those who were a part of that old audience, team and online fan base. The album comes on the heels of the EP Intercession Before Charlotte, released under his dj gummy bear moniker, which dropped on March 15th. 

On September 11th, Fish will kick off the North American tour in promotion of CHARLOTTE. The CHARLOTTE tour will see Montell playing his biggest venues to date, performing for his legion of fans across the country. The 20+ city trek will hit major markets including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Atlanta, Toronto, and Nashville with stops at iconic venues including The Fonda Theatre, Brooklyn Bowl Nashville, and House of Blues. 

3. JEMS! – FLIGHTS

Today JEMS!, the collaborative project between Oakland born singer, songwriter, and rapper Elujay and Baltimore-bred producer J.Robb, make their highly anticipated return with the announcement of their new album, GEMS IN THE CORNERSTORE II, out September 20th via drink sum wtr (Secretly). In celebration, the duo releases their insatiable new single “FLIGHTS” and a striking new visual. The first track back from this dexterous duo gives a glimpse to the sprawling, kaleidoscopic output that lines the multi-faceted, genre-spanning, and wildly thrilling new album. “FLIGHTS” is brimming with the nostalgic sonic worlds that shaped them, a fusion of R&B, dance, and reggae, in collaboration with the LA-based UK producer Budgie, capturing the captivating foundation of the album. GEMS IN THE CORNERSTORE II features collaborations with beloved artists including Amaria, Chase Shakur, Louis Culture, and Rae Khalil for a project that feels pleasantly familiar yet completely unique and exhilarating.

The by-product of a profound friendship years in the making, GEMS IN THE CORNERSTORE II is an expansive body of work from two world-class artists understanding where their strengths meet and precisely what constitutes a desired vibe. Inspired by their shared immersion in UK nightlife, the album houses a collection of songs that encapsulate the African diaspora which has been beautifully fostered within the walls of the London club scene. Sonically, it pulls from the sounds, artists and eras that have long inspired the duo as well as their shared Caribbean heritage, ranging from old-school R&B and hip-hop to Lovers Rock and dancehall to contemporary indie, ambient, and the many innovative styles they’ve encountered in the UK. 

They titled their debut project GEMS IN THE CORNERSTORE (released in 2020 on Soulection Records) because the phrase conjured “a kind of urban diamond in the rough,” says Elujay; the feeling of finding something unexpected in the melting pot of a city, an allegory that’s even more apt for its follow-up. This new body of work was recorded largely in person across sessions in Los Angeles, Oakland, London, and New York, infused with a vibrancy for life and a global sensibility. The result is an irresistible “feel-good record,” as J.Robb put it, by a duo whose shared love for music and deep admiration for each other remains at the core of their art. All artwork for this project was created by renowned visual artist Frank Dorrey who has produced striking imagery and artwork for Steve Lacy, Noname, Aminé, and brands like Mowalola to name a few.

FROM ELUJAY ON “FLIGHTS”:

“’FLIGHTS’ spawned from a true story of a person who distracted me and made me miss my flight. With a nod to the 80s London genre of ‘lovers rock’ we made it feel true to the era of today.”

4. Journey Montana – YOU

Today, R&B sensation Journey Montana shares her second single of 2024. Titled “You,” the new song showcases Journey’s stunning vocals weaving seamlessly amidst lush production – out now via 10K Projects. 

Gentle yet powerful, the new single presents a vulnerable exploration of human emotion. Journey’s succinct songwriting is a prime example of her unique ability to convey an innate desire: the longing for love. “Simply put, ‘You’ is a love song,” she says. “The song embodies the fire you feel in your chest when you love every part of someone. Yearning and desperation, but pure raw emotion. You saved me so I love you and I’ll do anything for you. I belong to you and it doesn’t matter if you belong to me.”

LISTEN HERE. 

Journey’s latest entry follows her previous track, “Journey,” which coincided with the announcement of her forthcoming debut studio album, where did the sun go?. The album, out later this year, is one of the most important projects in Journey’s promising career. Not to mention, where did the sun go? is executive produced by the acclaimed DJ Camper (Ye, Doja Cat, H.E.R.) – who’s fresh off a Grammy win for Coco Jones’ hit single “ICU.” 

The former “All American” cast member made waves last year, amassing over 10 million streams across platforms. where did the sun go? is the first full-length offering from Journey since Stargirl, and the live rendition, Stargirl (Live Sessions). The EP skyrocketed into the Top 10 of US iTunes (debuting at #5) and was widely lauded by the likes of Essence, BET, and YouKnowIGotSoul to name a few.

Stream “You” above and stay tuned for more from Journey Montana. 

5. MonoNeon – Quilted Stereo

Today marks the highly-anticipated release of Quilted Stereo, the latest album from the visionary bassist and experimental musician, MonoNeon. This musical journey, released via Court Square Recordings, will captivate listeners with its dynamic blend of genres, ranging from jazz and funk to hip-hop and beyond. 

As a GRAMMY Award-winning musician known for pushing the boundaries of contemporary music – and his collaborations with Prince, Nas, and Mac Miller – MonoNeon continues to solidify his place as a trailblazer in the industry. With Quilted Stereo, he invites listeners on a transformative musical odyssey that transcends genres and leaves a lasting impression. The project, made in collaboration with mentor and writing partner Davy Nathan (Mary J. Blige, Usher, Jennifer Hudson), also features an impressive lineup of collaborators, including legendary Parliament-Funkadelic icon George Clinton, who lends his signature style to “Quilted!”. Additionally, the album showcases a standout performance by the incomparable Mavis Staples on the track “Full Circle,” adding depth and soul to MonoNeon’s sonic landscape.

Much like the intricate artistry of a quilt, Quilted Stereo weaves together diverse musical influences into a cohesive and vibrant tapestry. With each track, MonoNeon invites audiences to explore new dimensions of sound, pushing the boundaries of conventional music with his innovative approach. On finding his balance he explains, “I think that balance came from early on with me wanting to combine a John Cage mentality to an Albert King mentality… or a Frank Zappa mentality to a Gangsta Boo thing. I’ve always been incorporating things that are pretty much not really related to each other… I find a lot of joy and fun in thinking like this. I want to play and create music like that… even with fashion. Just those kinda ideas alone are inspiration for me. The foundation with everything I do is the ‘Blues’… so with me knowing that… I can superimpose so much shiet with that thang.”

Commenting on the complexities of the album, MonoNeon shared, “It’s a fun album for me, but there is some heartache and sadness on this junt too that I’ve recently been fully accepting of letting people hear in my music. The songs ‘Church Of Your Heart’ and ‘Stereo’ be having me teary-eyed like a mug. So yea this album got a fun, melancholic thang on it… cry and dance at the same time.”

Earlier this year, MonoNeon completed a 10-show run at the historic Blue Note in New York city, joined by special guests including Eric Gales, Eshu Tune (Hannibal Buress), and Mike Stern. Starting this month he’ll bring his electric live show on a short US run, performing in Nashville, Boston, Oakland, and more in support of his Quilted Stereo album. Fans can purchase tickets HERE, and a full list of upcoming shows can be found below.

6. TA Thomas – Angry

R&B singer-songwriter, TA Thomas, returns with his second single and video of 2024 – a sultry cut titled “Angry.” After tugging at heartstrings with his previous single “Risky,” Thomas delves into the intricacies of love and anger in relationships in his latest release.
 
Stream here via High Standardz/Def Jam Recordings.
 
In “Angry”, Thomas crafts lyrics that paint a vivid picture of the passion and intensity that comes with conflicting emotions in relationships. As he sings, “Take advantage of that attitude, get you in the mood,” Thomas’ message is loud and clear. The accompanying video, filled with scenes of heated arguments and heartfelt moments, adds depth and perfectly complements the romantic mood of the single.

Fresh off inking a new deal with High Standardz and Def Jam Recordings, Thomas continues to showcase his artistry and storytelling prowess with each new release. With his debut single, “Risky,” already garnering critical acclaim and rave reviews from publications such as Vibe, Rated R&B, YouKnowIGotSoul, HITS Daily Double, and more, Thomas is poised to make a lasting impact on the R&B landscape.

Ending 2023 on a high note by dropping his acclaimed album, Caught Between 2 Worlds, Thomas generated plugs from beyond Vibe and more, Billboard applauded “June 15” among its “R&B/Hip-Hop Fresh Picks of the Week” giving flowers to the artist’s ability to “carve out a soul-stirring effort for his rookie project.”

As fans eagerly await what’s next from the rising R&B star, one thing remains certain – TA Thomas is a force to be reckoned with and is on a trajectory towards superstardom. Listen to “Angry” above and stay tuned for more from TA Thomas.

7. Destroy Lonely – LUV 4 YA

8. C Stunna – Still Stuntin'

Florida’s C Stunna (@cstunna2xx) is turning up the heat; all gas, no breaks, this summer. The acclaimed hip-hop sensation releases his highly anticipated Gangsta Grillz mixtape, Still Stuntin, hosted by none other than the legendary DJ Drama. Still Stuntin emphasizes C Stunna’s nature of flexing, with Drama’s energetic productions, providing a curated sound of high-energy, heavy-hitting tracks. With DJ Drama at the helm, Still Stuntin is a natural evolution and elevation from his previous projects. Check out the project here.

The tape is home to the buzzing single “Curtis Jackson” ft. Skrilla, which generated over 250,000 streams on Spotify and 1.2 million views on YouTube, and “Lose Control,” ft. Real Boston Richey, a bass-heavy slapper that sees the two quite literally losing control and turning up in the city. Standout track “No Pad or Pen” features a standout verse from Luh Tyler, and “We The Ones” boasts an appearance from Wizz Havinn. Amidst all the star power, C Stunna makes sure to put on for his city, recruiting South Florida associates Fatpocket, Jimbo World, T Row and Woodboy Gee for the final track “Freakneak.” 

Still Stuntin isn’t just a regular project —it’s a certified Gangsta Grillz mixtape. The chemistry between Drama and Stunna is clear, and Drama’s hosting of the tape serves as a stamp of approval synonymous with hip-hop excellence. Renowned for his impeccable ear for talent, DJ Drama’s involvement elevates Still Stuntin to a whole new level.

“I’ve been waiting to give the world this tape,” C Stunna said. “I know it’s gonna shake the streets up. This tape is also a part of history too, working with Drama! ‘Still Stuntin’ is gonna be one of the best tapes of the year.”

Still Stuntin is C Stunna’s first full-length project of 2024, arriving in the wake of a breakout year for the respected rapper. Last summer, he took the stage at Spotify’s Most Necessary Live concert in Miami. The show was graced with surprise performances by Kodak Black and Nardo Wick. 

Since then, he’s maintained his consistency. C Stunna reached critical acclaim with the release of “Al Roker,” a track that amassed over 2.2 million streams on Spotify and earned him praise from industry tastemakers and peers alike. His fanbase has grown exponentially, with performances at Rolling Loud Miami and Rolling Loud California opening the doors to new fanbases. His momentum only continued to soar with subsequent releases such as “Motion (Remix)” and “Vibin,” further establishing him as one of the most promising talents in the industry.

With boundless ambition and a committed work ethic pushing him forward, it’s just a matter of time before C Stunna completely takes over.

Stream Still Stuntin HERE

Watch “Curtis Jackson” ft. Skrilla: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0ecp4GQ2aM

9. Fuerza Regida – Pero No Te Enamores

Ever since their formation in San Bernardino, CA, Fuerza Regida have been stretching the boundaries of the corrido style, using both traditional and digital instrumentation and incorporating elements from genres like electronic and hip-hop. Today, the superstar Mexican music act shares Pero No Te Enamores, their new album, changing their sound once more, but keeping the same devil-may-care energy that their fans have always loved.

On Pero No Te Enamores, which translates to “but don’t fall in love,” Fuerza Regida catapult their corridos from the barrio to the club, weaving in elements of multiple high-energy genres into a singular mix. The group is led in its efforts by velvety-voiced frontman and songwriter Jesus Ortiz Paz, whose appealing rasp helps ground even the most far out flight of fancy with relatable relationship stories and furious flexes. The new album features production from well-known sound architects, including Gordo (fka Carnage) and Synthetic (Lil Uzi Vert’s “Just Wanna Rock”), who help JOP and the rest of the group to get out of their comfort zone and create something new.

JOP and Fuerza’s expedition to branch into new territory bears fruit throughout the 15-track album, a journey that pushes relentlessly forward as it dips into a variety of sonic realms. Songs like “SOFIA,” a collaboration with Major Lazer and Alok, and “FVCK,” helmed by the renowned DJ/producer Afrojack, are fist-pumping, stadium EDM bangers, while “VALERIA” and “ALE” display their facility with radio-ready reggaeton. On PNTE, the group expands their relationship with hip-hop, a genre all five members have loved and bonded over since they were teenagers: “FRESITAS,” a duet with Mexican rapper Bellakath, channels Timbaland’s collaborations with Nelly Furtado, even as it layers a tropical beat underneath, and “FREESTYLE” finds JOP trying his hand at Spanish-language drill.

The most intriguing addition to their sound is Jersey club, which proves to be surprisingly compatible with Fuerza’s traditional sound, creating a hybrid genre the band calls, “Jersey corridos.” “SECRETO VICTORIA” is the proof of concept, combining a full-band corrido sound with Jersey’s signature five-beat pattern. “KYLIE” is a lyrical showcase for JOP, whose fast-paced rhymes intersect with characteristic club sound effects, and “BRITNEY” is a dancefloor filler that combines corridos, club, and high-octane trap. 

Pero No Te Enamores ends with a salute to Fuerza’s day one fans, unleashing three of the best corridos of their career to date. The trio, “JESUS,” “BELINDA,” and album closer “PERO NO TE ENAMORES,” are showcases for JOP’s romantic lyrics and serrated singing voice, as well as the band’s well-earned chemistry.

Featuring an additional guest appearance from Maluma, whose hometown of Medellín, Colombia was the location of a writing camp that inspired many of the album’s songs, Pero No Te Enamores is available to stream everywhere via Rancho Humilde/Street Mob Records/Sony Music Latin.

10. Duncan Daniels ft. Ajagunlabi & Johnatha Bastos – Peacock Feather

Renowned Nigerian-American artist Duncan Daniels is set to mesmerize music lovers with his latest release, ‘Peacock Feather’. This Alt-Rock masterpiece features the melodic prowess of Nigerian vocalist Ajagunlabi and the soulful strums of Brazilian guitarist Johnatha Bastos. Released via Dunkishrock Production and helmed by the multi-talented Duncan Daniels, ‘Peacock Feather’ was recorded in the heart of New York City, adding a touch of urban sophistication to its vibrant sound.

‘Peacock Feather ‘a captivating rock duet that embodies resilience and creativity. With Bastos playing guitar with his toes and Ajagunlabi’s soulful vocals, this track offers a standout sound that celebrates perseverance and artistic expression, making it perfect for playlists showcasing innovation in music. With production driven by Duncan Daniels, the artiste brings his signature style and skill to this exciting Rock collaboration. With André Vasconcellos on bass and Oludare ‘Myxtical’ Emmanuel as the Mixing Engineer, the song achieves a rich and dynamic texture that sets it apart in the Alt-Rock genre.

Duncan Daniels, with his diverse cultural background and musical influences, continues to push boundaries and defy genres with ‘Peacock Feather’. This collaboration with Ajagunlabi and Bastos bridges continents and cultures, showcasing the universal language of music. The singer is gearing towards dropping his forthcoming album, kindly pre-save the album here. He is currently dropping singles bi-weekly including ‘One Perfect Day’, and ‘Leave It All’, ‘Evergreen’.

Duncan Daniels boasts of over 45,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and has amassed over 3 million streams on all DSPs. The artist has scooped three nominations at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards including in the following categories, Best US-based Male Artist (2011), Music Producer of the Year (2014), and Best Diaspora artist of the Year (2016).

11. ODUMODUBLVCK – NOT ALL THAT

Fresh off of selling out his UK tour and much-lauded appearances at Skepta’s Big Smoke Festival, Burna Boy’s London Stadium show, Germany’s Splash! Festival & Afronation Portgual to name a “Not All That” out now via NATIVE Records/Def Jam Recordings. Listen HERE.
 
“Not All That” highlights his hard-hitting flow front-and-center. Lyrically, he takes a much-deserved victory lap, reflecting on everything from “Two Headies” and “Twenty-two weeks on the Billboard Charts” to major cosigns spanning Skepta and Stormzy. Of course, he makes sure to claim “Blvcksheep forever” in between bodying the production.
 
In the Spring, he ignited “TECHNICIAN” featuring Blaqbonez and Lekaa Beats. Right out of the gate, it reeled in 5.9 million Spotify streams and scored critical acclaim. CLASH proclaimed, “A string of incredible singles have made him one of the hottest names on social media right now, with recent release ‘TECHNICIAN’ becoming a sensation.” Mixtape Madness affirmed, “Odumo is coming into a league of his own,” and NOTION hailed it as “a song full of energy and chemistry.”
 
Making history this year, he notably joined forces with Shallipopi to co-headline the ‘Nigeria’s Most Wanted Tour 2024’—the first-ever joint tour in Afrobeats history. Produced by Live Nation, it packed houses in major cities across the U.S.

“TECHNICIAN” also landed in the wake of ODUMODUBLVCK’s “100 Million” featuring Tiwa Savage. Beyond tallying millions of streams worldwide and 839K YouTube views on the music video, it incited widespread critical applause. Billboard hailed it among “Afrobeats Fresh Picks,” going on to promise, “ODUMODUBLVCK and Tiwa Savage are ready to “f–k up the club” with their pricey collaboration ‘100 Million.’” OKAYAFRICA professed, “Tapping up Tiwa Savage for the new song, he carries her mellifluous vocals into the bouncy terrain of rap, and of course she delivers beautifully.” Complex UK promised, “It’s pure energy from the get-go,” and CLASH applauded how “ODUMODUBLVCK is building his own unique sound.” ODUMODUBLVCK and Tiwa Savage debuted “100 Million” by sharing it at DJ Obi’s house in Lagos, Nigeria and setting social media on fire.

ODUMODUBLVCK has already made waves worldwide. His ode to Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice went viral last year, while he notched  ‘Best Rap Single’ honors at The 2023 Headies. Recently, Spotify and Billboard christened him an “Artist to Watch” for 2024.

He capped off 2023 with EZIOKWU (UNCUT), which served as the Deluxe Version of his opus EZIOKWU. The latter has tallied hundreds of millions of streams globally. GUAP Magazine professed, “Overall, ‘EZIOKWU (Uncut)’ is a solid project serving the ecstatic energy of Grime, the twisty grooves of Afrobeats along with the hard-hitting elements of Drill. ODUMODUBLVCK pierces through with pummeling charisma, Highlife-inspired melodies and versatility.” In a deep dive interview Wonderland raved, “The finest sonic experience in Afrobeats grounds, his spine-tingling, spasm-inducing tunes will make you start dancing without even trying to do so.” 
 

12. Breez Kennedy – Wishing It Was Easy

 On the verge of a breakthrough, singer/songwriter Breez Kennedy returns with his anticipated new single and music video “Wishing It Was Easy” out now via Standard Records/Def Jam Recordings. Listen HERE. Watch the music video HERE.
 
Introspective and emotionally charged verses give way to a pulsating beat on the hook as he grapples with relationship insecurities, “I don’t wanna know what you been doing when I’m gone.” The accompanying visual portrays Breez in his feelings onscreen. Caught between moments of reflecting and stressing, the camera follows him around a lonely apartment. He tries to break out of this mood by walking outside in the sun and staring at the ocean from the beach, yet imminent heartbreak proves overwhelming as evidenced by his tense expression. “Wishing It Was Easy” proves both raw and relatable.
 
It arrives on the heels of “Who’s Been On Your Mind.” Beyond generating half-a-million streams and counting, it earned critical acclaim. WONDERLAND. praised how, “With a lithely powerful tenor and vulnerable, introspective lyricism, Breez Kennedy has carved a distinct path in the contemporary scene, seamlessly blending nostalgic R&B vibes with modern tropes,” and Billboard touted the track on “R&B/Hip-Hop Fresh Picks of the Week,” going on to predict, “Breez Kennedy just might be next up if ‘Who’s Been on Your Mind’ is anything to go by.”
 
The latter followed “Need U Tonite” featuring Def Jam labelmate Genia, which has continued to react with 2.4 million Spotify streams and counting.


Breez ignited a hot streak with “Life My Ex.” Beyond plugs from the likes of Global Grind and more, UPROXX included it among “All The Best New R&B Music From This Week” and praised, “17-year-old singer Breezy Kennedy is letting off the gas anytime soon.” ATTACK THE CULTURE raved, “Breez Kennedy is representing for the culture,” and promised, “It’s all types of alive and alert vibes. Tap in.”
 
“Like My Ex” arrived behind his rapidly rising debut “Love Crazy (Blowing Up Your Phone).” Global Grind hailed it “as mesmerizing as it is unabashedly heartfelt,” and proclaimed, “he’s positioned himself to make sure his come-up is a continual one.” He initially teased the track on TikTok with a series of viral posts. Prior to an official release, he attracted the attention of not only Lil Baby (who vibed to just a clip on Instagram!), but also Swae Lee, Rod Wave, Toosii, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, and more.

13. Muni Long – Ruined Me

 In 2024, Muni Long has already climbed the charts, ignited the culture, gone platinum once again, and indisputably delivered the hottest R&B song of the year with “Made For Me.” Now, the superwoman of R&B is set to deliver what promises to be the “R&B Album of the Year” in the form of her second full-length LP, Revenge, out August 30, 2024 via Def Jam Recordings. Pre-save HERE.  

The GRAMMY® Award-winning superstar heralds this highly-anticipated body of work with a heartfelt and hypnotic new single entitled “Ruined Me” out now. LISTEN HERE.

A heavy bass thump anchors the track. Piano glimmers over the beat, and strings accent her dynamic delivery. Emotion practically overflows on the verses until a climactic chorus takes hold with a confession, “After you, I know that I’ll never love again. Baby, you ruined me.” She infuses the track with raw feeling through her razor-sharp pen and a powerhouse vocals reminding you that even though they tried to ruin her, success is the best revenge.
 
It lands in the wake of “Make Me Forget.” Earning widespread critical acclaim, VIBE applauded, “One thing about Muni Long? She’s going to make a ballad that stirs up something in your soul,” HotNewHipHop attested, “It seems Muni can really hit every note, both literally and figuratively.” Climbing the charts, the song cracked the Top 10 of Billboard’s Adult R&B Airplay Chart.
 
About the upcoming album, Muni stated, “The record is definitely my story. I’m focusing on my journey, elevating, and growing as an artist. It’s so much deeper than simply writing songs. It’s therapeutic for me to get all my thoughts out. I’ve been working towards this moment for 17 years. I’m stronger than I’ve ever been. I’m focused on healing and leaving a brightness wherever I go. From my perspective, I think I did a really great job of expressing how I feel in the music. It’s like one big diary entry.”
 
Muni Long has entered her Revenge era and nothing makes it sweeter than success!
 
Earlier this year, she recharged her platinum-certified hit “Made For Me” by dropping a powerhouse remix featuring Mariah Carey and delivered a showstopping performance on the Season Finale of NBC’s The Voice.
 
“Made For Me” cracked the Top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100 and spent 7 weeks at #1 on the R&B Radio Airplay Chart and catapulted to #1 on Apple’s R&B Chart and #2 on the Apple Music All Genres Chart. The music video has also nearly 40 million YouTube views. Watch HERE.

Produced by the legendary Jermaine Dupri, Bryan Michael Cox and Jordan XL, “Made For Me” followed in the footsteps of mega hit “Hrs & Hrs” and vaulted to #1 at R&B Radio solidifying her staying power at the top of the charts.

14. Ice Spice – Y2K!

Today, Bronx phenom Ice Spice drops her explosive, wildly anticipated official debut album, Y2K!, out now via 10K Projects/Capitol Records. The GRAMMY®-nominated rapper and pop culture sensation rang in the occasion from the top of the Empire State Building last night, lighting the tower up orange. Earlier in the day, Rolling Stone debuted their Ice Spice cover (on stands September 1) and she continues her victory lap tonight, bringing white hot single “Did It First” to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Listen to Y2K! HERE.

Y2K! pulls no punches, knocking down the door with “Phat Butt” as Ice spits over earthquaking bass, “Rap bitch on a pop chart, toastin’ bitches like Pop-Tarts / You’s a flop, bitch, knock it off, where the champagne? I’ma pop it off.” Fans have been celebrating, too, since Ice confirmed features from Travis Scott (“Oh Shhh…”), Gunna (“Bitch I’m Packin’”), and Central Cee on the fast rising “Did It First.” The video for that infidelity anthem (watch HERE) has racked up over 13M views, while the song hit new peaks on Spotify’s US (#34) and Global (#41) charts, became the #1 most added on Rhythm Radio, fueled more than 100,000 TikTok creates, and amassed more than 1 billion views across short form via various social platforms.

Ice’s first LP comes stacked with hits, including the Sean Paul-sampling “Gimmie A Light” and hater-dismissing “Think U The Shit (Fart),” which she recently brought to the BET Awards 2024. View HERE. Y2K! endlessly demonstrates what Pitchfork has hailed as Ice’s “diabolical knack for hooks,” pairing her precise no-frills delivery with bass-heavy beats from her go-to producer RiotUSA.

After a week spent dominating her own city — and a run of European festivals in early July — Ice kicks off the North American leg of her Y2K! WORLD TOUR on July 30 at The Anthem in Washington, DC. The stateside headline run will also include two shows at The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York City (August 6 and 7) and an evening at the iconic Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles (August 19). See below for the full itinerary. Tickets are available HERE.

Y2K! confirms what’s been in the air since Ice’s 2023 debut EP, Like..?, landed her on year-end lists from the likes of Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, The New York Times, and numerous others. Hits like “Munch (Feelin U)” and the Platinum-selling “In Ha Mood” and “Princess Diana” have taken Ice straight to the top of the rap game and brought her a slew of honors, including two People’s Choice Awards, an MTV VMA, a BET Hip-Hop Award, and the Hitmaker Award at the 2024 Billboard Women In Music event. All signs point toward Ice extending her dominance.

15. Highway – keep Dat

Seattle’s emerging rap artist Highway continues to build momentum with the release of his latest single, “keep Dat,” under Victor Victor Worldwide/Geffen Records. This energetic track was produced by his go-to Seattle based producer, Basskids and follows the gripping “freestyle 2 (Ganger Flo),” marking another standout addition to his 2024 hits.

“keep Dat” is yet another highlight of Highway’s unflinching confidence, as he further navigates through the themes of power, grit, and resilience. The track captures his dynamic persona, consistently setting the standard blending sharp wordplay and constructing a narrative that is both self-assured and undeniably cool. Highway’s remarkable talent for blending genuine authenticity with a confident, distinctive style sets him apart in the rap landscape. His music, marked by a seamless fusion of personal truth and artistic flair, resonates deeply with listeners and solidifies his position as a standout talent in the industry.

The single arrives amidst a banner year for Highway. Recent performances alongside XXL freshman Rich Amiri, coupled with sold-out shows in major metropolitan areas, have cemented his position as a rising star. Collaborations with tastemaking brands like Supreme and acclaimed visual artists like Chito have helped further solidify his artistic depth and burgeoning influence on the new era of rap. With a string of critically-lauded releases and a packed live schedule, Highway is proving himself to be a force to be reckoned with in the rap industry. “keep Dat” is just another testament to his undeniable talent and relentless drive. Buckle up, because Highway is here for the long haul.

16. mgk & Jelly Roll – Lonely Road

After teasing their upcoming collaboration last week for “Lonely Road,” mgk and Jelly Roll unveiled the video for their newest release. Playing the role of car mechanics, mgk and Jelly Roll endure financial difficulties while trying to provide for their families in the Sam Cahill-directed video. Megan Fox and Bunnie Xo guest star in the cautionary tale that finds mgk orchestrating a master plan to take care of Fox and his family. The alliance in star power makes “Lonely Road” a must-listen for rock and country enthusiasts aliike. “Lonely Road” made its broadcast premiere on MTV Live, MTVU, MTV Biggest Pop, CMT, CMT Music, CMT Equal Play and on the Paramount Times Square billboards.

Last month, mgk shared an intimate performance video of his “Sun To Me” cover by country music singer-songwriter Zach Bryan, which debuted on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart following release. Jelly Roll will launch his upcoming Beautifully Broken Tour this August and will perform today the Harley Davidson Homecoming in Milwaukee, WI.

17. Yemi Alade – Rebel Queen

Afropop Queen and global music icon YEMI ALADE has released her highly anticipated new album REBEL QUEEN via Effyzzie Music Group and IDOL. Rebel Queen will serve as the sixth studio album and tenth project overall from the GRAMMY Award and Latin GRAMMY Award winning Yemi Alade, in an illustrious discography that cements her reign as Africa’s Queen of afropop. The album title ‘Rebel Queen’ signifies Yemi’s boundless, unapologetic love for her African heritage and her unwavering commitment to charting her own path in the music industry, while the exquisite music on the album showcases her signature blend of vibrant afropop, dancehall, amapiano, lingala, afrobeats, reggae, and R&B, creating a rich tapestry of sounds that will resonate with music lovers worldwide.

Known affectionately as Mama Africa for her celebration of African heritage, Yemi Alade’s multilingualism shines through in Rebel Queen, as she sings in Yoruba, English, Igbo, French, and Swahili. This cross-cultural approach underscores her commitment to spreading African music and culture across the globe. Tracks like ‘Karibu’, a Swahili-infused intro, pay homage to Africa, while ‘Tomorrow’ preaches the wisdom of living in the present moment. ‘Happy Day’ celebrates joy and resilience, and ‘African Woman’ is a powerful anthem celebrating the might and grace of African women, while ‘Peace and Love’ calls for compassion, adding a poignant and timely message to the album.

The superb 16-track album also features an impressive lineup of collaborations, including Beninois French legend Angélique Kidjo on ‘African Woman’, Jamaican icon Ziggy Marley on ‘Peace and Love’, Congolese rap star Innoss’B on ‘Lipeka’, and dancehall sensation Konshens on ‘Baddie Remix’. These collaborations highlight Yemi’s ability to seamlessly blend different genres and styles, creating a dynamic and eclectic album. Each track is a unique capsule of her thoughts, melodies, and a truckload of nostalgia, offering something new, old, and borrowed. This album stands out not only for its musical diversity but also for its emotional depth, capturing a wide range of human experiences and emotions.

Yemi Alade delves into personal themes with songs like ‘Ije Love’, an irresistible serenade to a lover, and ‘I’m Sorry’ and ‘Chairman’, which are anthems for living life unapologetically. ‘Bop’ is a dancehall number about overcoming life’s challenges and staying positive, while ‘Big Connection’ embraces Yemi’s superstar status and lavish lifestyle. ‘Big Vibe’ brings out her sensuality, as Yemi yearns for a lover’s strong emotional and physical connection, and ‘Looking Nice’ celebrates enjoying life without worries. The aptly titled ‘African Woman’ sees Yemi honouring the strength and grace of African women, while she extols the virtues of living in the present on ‘Tomorrow’. All in all, this versatile collection will resonate widely across the world, capturing the essence of Yemi Alade’s multifaceted artistry.

Speaking about the inspiration behind her Rebel Queen album, Yemi Alade says, “I created this album with the sole purpose of creating music I grew up loving, and the variety of African music that I have grown to love now. I was inspired by the core African music of highlife and different genres that got us excited as Africans. I channelled older African music that could be played at parties, weddings, clubs, and all sorts of occasions, where we really started enjoying African music, and spreading our culture and heritage across the continent. This album has something new, old, and borrowed. Every song is unique and a capsule of my thoughts, melodies, and truck load of nostalgia”.

Offering further context behind the soundscapes on Rebel Queen, Yemi Alade adds, “Growing up, African pop music was a mixture of music that carried messages and helped us through different situations in life. This album is a blend of what my playlist consists of right now including the new and old pop music that cuts across generations and boundaries. There are a lot of discussions about ‘what is African music’, ‘what should afrobeats or afropop sound like’, so I wanted to strip everything down and go back to the core and essence of African feel-good music that has heavily influenced Africans globally, and reflects our different sounds across the continent. I am a true rebel in words and in action. I have always charted my own course and walked the path less travelled, and this album shows that”.

Revered as one of Africa’s best live performers and one of the continent’s biggest touring artists, Yemi Alade will also be heading back on the road with this new album Rebel Queen at the end of the summer for a massive world tour. Aptly tagged the ‘African Rebel’ tour, it kicks off at Pop-Kultur Berlin on August 30, and Zénith Paris on September 21, and the jaunt comes on the back of last year’s incredible ‘African Baddie’ summer world tour, which spawned sold-out shows and electrifying live performances across Royal Festival Hall in London, Chicago’s Millennium Park, Nuits d’Afrique in Montreal, Sweden’s Uppsala Reggae Festival, and Melkweg Amsterdam, just to mention a few.

Yemi Alade’s journey to ‘Rebel Queen’ is a testament to her originality, bold spirit, and global domination, proving her mettle in a male-dominated industry. With this album, Yemi Alade not only cements her place as a leading voice in global music but also invites listeners to embrace the diverse and vibrant sounds of African music. As she embarks on her ‘Rebel Tour’ following a successful ‘African Baddie’ world tour, ‘Rebel Queen’ promises to be another milestone in her stellar career, showcasing her as one of Africa’s most influential and dynamic artists.

18. SHiiKANE – Sixty Diamond Seconds

19. Eli Jae – Me & You

Following the success of his last single ‘All Over’, which has amassed over one million plays online, and garnered critical acclaim from Capital Xtra, Notion Magazine, and Earmilk, among others, Nigerian R&B and afrofusion rising star ELI JAE is ready to go again with an exquisite new single titled ‘ME & YOU’. Released via Squareball Entertainment in collabotration with ONErpm, and taken from his highly anticipated sophomore EP arriving later this year, ‘Me & You’ is a smooth romantic offering that masterfully blends Eli’s soulful R&B vibes with his rhythmic afrobeats energy to create a glorious love song that is sure to touch hearts and become an instant favourite for the lovers.

‘Me & You’ is a heartfelt testament to love and intimacy, written and composed by Eli Jae, produced by Dalorbeats (Davido, P-Square), and engineered by Biano (Rema, Ayra Starr, Tiwa Savage). The song is driven by Eli’s velvety smooth vocals and evocative lyrics that harmonize beautifully with the enchanting guitar and percussion-led musical backdrop, resulting in a spellbinding few minutes that will resonate deeply with listeners. Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, Eli Jae says, “With ‘Me & You’, I wanted to craft a song that not only celebrates the beauty of love, and the connections that bind us, but also one that evokes a sense of joy and romance in everyone who hears it”.

With ‘Me & You’, Eli Jae continues to establish himself as an exciting new voice in global music, as he captivates fans and critics alike with his special fusion of R&B and afrobeats sounds. Whether it is winning hearts and minds online with his popular ‘Jae Mondays’ cover series that sees him reworking popular hits from the likes of Usher, Giveon, and Silk Sonic in true scene-stealing fashion, or his own original music, characterised by heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies, which has been championed by the likes of Culture Custodian, and Live Nation’s Ones To Watch, Eli Jae has consistently demonstrated his unique artistry and undeniable talent as a standout musician and performer.

20. Dajah Dorn – Love U 4 Free

Rising R&B Songstress, Dajah Dorn, shares a new single “Love U 4 Free” via Vinyl Crown Recordings, listen HERE. Hailing from the north side of Jacksonville, Florida, Dajah enters the world of R&B, weaving together her diverse musical influences and personal experiences to create a sound that is uniquely hers.

“Love U 4 Free” produced by Khari “Needlz” Cain, brings on the perfect summer feel. This track follows Dajah’s debut single, “I Don’t Want You,” and “Twice On Sunday” released via Vinyl Crown Recordings, offering a glimpse into her narrative. “Love U 4 Free” sets the stage for Dajah’s upcoming debut EP “Having My Way” set to release this fall.

Dajah Dorn in her own words: “I’m a lover girl so my music is always going to mention love in some way. After releasing my first 2 singles, my team and I knew the next thing we needed was something light and fun that you could dance to and “Love U 4 Free” was created. It’s all about loving through any circumstance and trusting the freedom that comes with that.”

Dajah’s musical journey is deeply rooted in her familial ties and her upbringing. Growing up surrounded by a melting pot of musical genres, she credits her mother and grandparents for instilling in her a love for music from an early age. The influence of classics like “My Girl” by the Temptations served as the foundation for Dajah’s musical education, delivered with a personal touch of musical memorization from her mother. From the deep roots of southern Baptist hymns to the empowering melodies of R&B divas, Dajah absorbed a rich spectrum of sounds that would later shape her artistic identity.

Her musical exploration expanded further when she stumbled upon hip-hop in the record crates of her uncle’s bedroom. Dajah, self-proclaimed as a student of music, took the time to familiarize herself with a sound before bringing it into the recording booth. Originally inclined towards becoming a rapper, she seamlessly blends rap elements into her music. While currently exploring the R&B genre, Dajah expresses her desire to cross over into various genres that resonate with her as a musician, showcasing her versatility and determination to push artistic boundaries.

Listen to “Love U 4 Free” and stay tuned for more Dajah Dorn.

21. Porter Robinson – SMILE! 😀

Today, Grammy-nominated artist Porter Robinson released his highly anticipated third studio album SMILE! 😀 via MOM+POP. [Stream here]. 

Porter’s most ambitious and vulnerable album to date, SMILE! 😀 is laden with social commentary on the paradox of modern artistry, internet culture, and celebrity. The album untangles Porter’s complicated relationship with fame in the digital age, and the uneasy balance between authenticity and performance – from Porter’s juxtaposed position on trendsetting with “Kitsune Maison Freestyle” to his views on fandom on “Cheerleader”.

Across the record, Porter offers a unique blend of honest and sarcastic lyricism, exaggerating the depths of his poignant opinions with cheeky phrases like “Bitch I’m Taylor Swift” on “Knock Yourself Out XD,” alongside more earnest moments on songs like “Russian Roulette” and “Perfect Pinterest Garden”. SMILE! 😀 touches on themes of self worth and acceptance, social stigmas and expectations, and the ups and downs of stardom from his teenage years through adulthood. 

SMILE! 😀 is a 10-track display of the maximalist hyperpop, alternative, pop punk, and indie styles that define Robinson’s new era, as premiered by Robinson at a sold-out intimate listening party at Echoplex in Los Angeles, where he played the album in full to fans for the first time. 

SMILE! 😀 is available in a number of physical formats including a Deluxe Box Set packaged in a custom reusable carrying case which includes: a double LP in opaque pink vinyl, exclusive 7″ opaque pink vinyl of “Cheerleader”, exclusive lyric & photo booklet, and exclusive album art print—the first 500 of which will be signed by Porter, and first 2,000 of which will be hand-numbered. A milky pink Urban Outfitters Exclusive and an opaque baby pink Amazon Exclusive will also be available.

Porter Robinson will bring the SMILE! 😀 World Tour to venues around the world this Fall with his highly anticipated 70+ date global outing. Robinson will debut a completely new production including a live band. The multi talented artist announced this week the addition of three new dates in Texas and Washington, and is also moving venues to the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado. The SMILE! 😀 World Tour will kick off on August 29 in Boston and hit notable stops along the way including Forrest Hills in New York on August 31 and Hollywood Bowl on October 11, before heading onto an Asian run which spans 9 cities beginning November 2024. Porter concludes the tour by traversing across 8 countries in Europe throughout February and March 2025, including a stop at London’s prestigious Brixton Academy. Dates in Australia and Latin America will also be announced soon. For more information on the tour and tickets, visit porterrobinson.com.

22. TheyWantNick – L.G.G.Y.W.

Jersey Artist TheyWantNick has been a roll lately with multiple releases supported by IHeart radio, TalkOfTheTown, and other notable platforms. He plans to follow up with new single “L.G.G.Y.W. (Let God Guide Your Way).” 

https://open.spotify.com/track/4l7ukkWEHkHPzdzgmIhGNn

L.G.G.Y.W. (Let God Guide Your Way) in his words os is a track where Nick combines a R&B Soul cadence with alternative hip hop rap taste for a three minute experience that is perfect for anyone who may be going through something weighing on their mental. 

This track is a switch up compared to his previous two songs as Nick shows his versatility as an artist to his fans in more ways than one. Fans of younger Drake and J. Cole will be at home with this drop. 

It also previews an album he is working on. For now you can enjoy his latest here. 

23. Hayden James ft. Karen Harding – Patieence

Australian multi-platinum artist Hayden James is back with another new single ‘Patience’ featuring English singer/songwriter Karen Harding out now via Future Classic. ‘Patience’ serves as the fourth single off James’ forthcoming third studio album We Could Be Love out September 13.

With his latest single, Hayden James beautifully displays his ability to create intimate yet energetic originals that are captivating on and off the dance floor. ‘Patience’ enlists the effervescent vocals of Karen Harding, known for her collaborations with Armand Van Helden, Purple Disco Machine, Rudimental. Referencing his 2019-released ‘Just Friends’, the track swirls with driving bass lines and crisp percussion that backdrop Harding’s gentle love story. The heartfelt sentiments of ‘Patience’ are carried throughout the album as James continues to distinguish himself with his craftsmanship as a songwriter and the relatable emotions he threads into each release. A euphoric earworm destined for clubland, ‘Patience’ captures the vibrancy and uplifting spirit fans can expect on We Could Be Love.

“Patience feels like ‘Just Friends’ part two. It’s got the same vibe to me, similar storyline and big bass lines. I’ve truly gone back to my classic HJ feel for this one. Karen is an incredibly talented songwriter and it’s been amazing to work with her on ‘Patience’. Turn it up!” – Hayden James

“We wanted to capture that classic sexy melody with an emotional twist. It’s about falling in love with someone but taking it slow and asking for understanding. I feel like every section of the song takes you on such a journey that you gotta listen again to make sure you didn’t miss anything.” – Karen Harding

Along with ‘Patience’, Hayden James has announced the tracklist for his upcoming album We Could Be Love. The album will include previously released singles ‘Deep Diving’ with UK songstress SHELLS, ‘Make It’ with fellow Aussie producer Kormak, and the titular ‘We Could Be Love’ with electro-pop duo AR/CO, along with new originals featuring British-Ethiopian singer-songwriter Izzy Bizu, LIFTED collaborator Tudor, multi-instrumental artist Ross Quinn, and more.

Since breaking out in 2013 with ‘Permission to Love’, Hayden James has gone on to release revered platinum-certified hits ‘Numb’ feat. GRAACE, and ‘Just Friends’. James continued his run with a string of beloved singles in 2023, ‘Do You Want Me’ with Bob Moses, ‘Beggin’ You’ with SAYGRACE, and ‘Nevermind’ with Jillian Loux. 

We Could Be Love will mark James’ third album, following his ARIA-nominated 2019 debut Between Us and 2022 LIFTED. Earlier this year, James launched his new Just Friends party series in Sydney in April, with its second edition following last month in Gold Coast. This Fall, Hayden James will set out on his headline We Could Be Love Tour supported by Laurence Guy and Kormak – tickets are available here.

Stream Hayden James’ new single ‘Patience’ available now on all platforms and pre-order We Could Be Love here.
 

24. Vanessa Williams ft. Trixie Mattel & LION BABE – BOP!

Legendary, award-winning star of stage, screen, and music, Vanessa Williams, continues to usher in an epic summer of music, and today, releases her latest must-hear track “BOP!” featuring renowned multi-faceted artist and drag superstar, Trixie Mattel, and New York-bred electronic soul duo, LION BABE, comprised of multidisciplinary artist and Williams’ daughter Jillian Hervey and producer/DJ Lucas Goodman, also known as Astro Raw.

“BOP!” is the second track off William’s forthcoming album set for release in late August via Mellian Music / Mod Squad, LLC, and is available now on all digital streaming platforms with four accompanying, high-voltage dance remixes – LISTEN HERE: https://bopep.lnk.to/eGAeHl

Additionally, an exclusive music video for “BOP!” will also premiere July 26. The accompanying new video stars Williams and LION BABE, filmed in various locations around London, where Williams has been preparing for her starring role in the new musical, The Devil Wears Prada, which premieres on the West End this Fall. The playful visual brings the song’s lyrics to life with high-energy dancing that matches the track’s feel-good sentiment and infectious rhythm – WATCH HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kg0KpBs130M

“The children need a good old bop and I’ll bring the BOP!,” Williams shares about the new song. “We made it for the `kids’ to dance to and I hope they love it.”

Produced by the 808 BEACH duo of New York City-based Bill Coleman and London-based John “J-C” Carr, and Astro Raw of LION BABE, the five-track BOP! Remixes EP oozes with buoyant confidence and vivacious verve, featuring Mattel as the commanding mistress of ceremonies alongside a poignantly personal rap by LION BABE’s Hervey.  The “BOP!” music video was produced by Vanessa Williams and Liz Curtis, Christopher Todd Hall and Mod Squad LLC.

“As Jillian’s rap talks about her getting her talent from her momma, I am tremendously flattered and was choked up with pride when I first heard it,” Williams adds.  “I’m so proud of everything she and Lucas have accomplished in their career so far and it’s so special to me to get to collaborate with her artist to artist.”

On her relationship with Mattel, Williams says, “I’ve known Trixie for years, having both been in and around the ‘Drag Race’ world and having the chance to do two seasons as judges on RuPaul’s ‘Queen of the Universe.’  She’s immensely talented as a singer and performer and this was the perfect chance for us to play together again.”

Speaking on the collaborative nature of the song, Coleman proclaims with pride, “‘BOP!’ is a runway ready, nu disco call-to-arms. It’s a loopy, danceable funk jam that gives space and groove for Vanessa, Trixie and Lion Babe’s super-catchy and engaging vocal deliveries. John `J-C’ Carr and I wanted to bring the kids what they’re asking for with a `BOP!’ mix that’s club ready, relentless with a bit of sass and meant to be played LOUD!”

“The musical bar was set high, to produce a song that would transcend time, yet its relevance be right in time,” adds veteran musician, Mel Holder, who produced and co-wrote the song with seasoned tunesmiths Kipper Jones and Chantry Johnson.

“BOP!” follows the release of Williams’ first pop recording in 15 years, “Legs (Keep Dancing),” which debuted at No. 3 on Billboard’s Dance/Electronic Digital Sales chart and has surpassed a million digital streams in a matter of weeks. Upon release, the song received an outpouring of both fan and critical acclaim from numerous press outlets:

“So infectious that it’s hard to imagine a reality where you’d ever tire of listening to it…a refreshing anthem for sexy women of a certain age—and it’s just the start” – The Daily Beast

“The living legend is about to set the music world on fire…she’s never been more beautiful, more passionate, more seasoned and more ready to take it all on. But this time, she’s in charge” – PhotoBook

“More than 30 years after her first music release, Vanessa Williams remains iconic…proves without a doubt that she hasn’t missed a step…absolutely ageless” – Entertainment Tonight

“A triumphant return to the music industry…continues to solidify her status as a true legend” – EBONY

Williams is currently in the UK, preparing to star as fashion queen Miranda Priestly in the upcoming West End musical version of the hit feature film, The Devil Wears Prada, which features an original score by Sir Elton John and lyrics by Shania Taub. The book is by Kate Wetherhead. It’s directed and choreographed by 3-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell (Hairspray, Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde, Pretty Woman).  The Devil Wears Prada is currently in previews in Plymouth and will open in the West End in October.

25. Serj Tankian – Justice Will Shine One

Singer, poet, songwriter, visual artist, film producer, activist and author SERJ TANKIAN, lead singer and lyricist for the GRAMMY© Award-winning rock band System Of A Down returns with his new single, “Justice Will Shine On.” The raging, impassioned hard rocking tune is available worldwide now on Gibson Records HERE.

The new song follows the release of the recent single “A.F. Day.” Like that track, TANKIAN composed “Justice Will Shine On” in the early days of System Of A Down. But the message and medium are just as hard-hitting and vital today.

Watch/share the brand-new official video for SERJ TANKIAN’s “Justice Will Shine On” out today: HERE.

Along with “A.F. Day,” “Justice Will Shine On” will appear on TANKIAN’s forthcoming new EP titled FOUNDATIONS, due out September 27 on Gibson Records. Over potent riffs and pummeling rhythms, TANKIAN grapples with the atrocities of the Armenian Genocide, experienced by his grandparents firsthand. He addresses their suffering in jarringly personal and direct terms, singing, “Can you tell me dear grandfather of your childhood so far away/You can see the death of laughter in his teared eyes disarray/Can you tell me dear grandmother of your childhood from hunger and pain /Of the orphans you called brothers in her teared eyes disarray.”

As the song launches into its soaring chorus, TANKIAN declares that the torment and anguish experienced by all victims of the Armenian Genocide will not be in vain. “We are the children of all the survivors/Justice will shine on!”

Pre Order SERJ TANKIAN’S forthcoming FOUNDATIONS EP via Gibson Records HERE.

TANKIAN has also unveiled the cover art for the FOUNDATIONS EP features one of his original artworks titled “Sunburst,” view HERE.

The new single and forthcoming EP continue a massive year for SERJ TANKIAN, who released his exhilarating debut memoir, DOWN WITH THE SYSTEM, on Hachette Books in May. An immigrant’s tale, an activist’s awakening, and a spiritual journey from darkness toward light, DOWN WITH THE SYSTEM was an instant New York Times bestseller. On August 17, TANKIAN will perform with System Of A Down for a headlining, sold-out show at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, CA. TANKIAN recently celebrated the opening of his Kavat Café / Eye For Sound Art Gallery in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles, located at 1638 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041.

Read SERJ TANKIAN’s best-selling new memoir DOWN WITH THE SYSTEM, available in all formats worldwide HERE.

26. wolfacejoeyy – finsta

There’s nothing like a NYC summer. Whether you’re kicking it at a block party in BedStuy or indulging in pricey Mr. Softee cones every weekend (thanks to inflation haha), the city comes alive with adventure and enchanting allure once the temperatures climb above 80 degrees. Staten Island riser wolfacejoeyy is setting the tone for a vibrant summer in the five boroughs, sharing the video for his latest single “finsta (sexy liar).” Directed by Annie Bercy (Ayra Starr, SZA, Ciara), the video brings Joeyy’s buttery vocals to life, showcasing his charismatic, f*ckboy energy as he charms a few Brooklyn baddies. The video also features scenes where Joeyy engages with the girls against a green backdrop, symbolizing his discovery of the true selves of his companions through their close friends and private “finsta” accounts on Instagram.

Dropping new heat on another #WolfaceWednesday, the “finsta” video continues wolfacejoeyy’s red-hot streak after the release of his “finsta (sexy liar)/bia” double single in late June. The double single follows the Pitchfork-acclaimed Valentino project released in May. Valentino is home to “cutie patootie” anthems such as the heartfelt “don’t be dishonest,” the sexy drill slapper “I Know,” and the viral banger “cake,” which recently surpassed 4.8M YouTube views has earned praise from Michael Rainey Jr. (POWER on STARZ), Sexyy Red, Anycia, Kaliii, and most recently A Boogie wit da Hoodie, who brought Joeyy out as a guest to perform at Madison Square Garden for his “Better Off Alone Tour” stop. 

Raking in over 1 million streams per week on his catalog, being recognized by GRAMMY.com as one of the “10 Artists Changing The Face Of Drill,” and gearing up to tour as an opening act for 4Batz’s upcoming “Thank You, Jada Tour,” joeyy is vibing responsibly all Summer 2024. Check out his latest interviews with BET, The FADER, and XXL, where he discusses his musical journey, Valentino, and more. 

27. GloRilla ft. Moneybagg Yo – All Dere

Today, GRAMMY-nominated artist GloRilla released her new video, “All Dere,” featuring her CMG labelmate MoneyBagg Yo. Continuing her streak of party-starter anthems, Glo enlists MoneyBagg to be her gym partner and help the ladies get their bodies right. Whether it’s Glo transforming into a cycling instructor or MoneyBagg becoming a personal trainer, the CMG stars look to help these women maximize their results in the gym before the end of summer.

Glo’s success this year comes from her 12-track project Ehhthang Ehhthang, which boasts big-name features, ranging from her Song of the Summer collaboration with Megan The Stallion on “Wanna Be” to her team-up with MoneyBagg Yo on “All Dere.” “Wanna Be” later earned the remix treatment when Cardi B was featured on the song, propelling the track back into the top 15 of the Hot 100 upon its release.

Ehhthang Ehhthang also includes her top 30 Billboard Hot 100 song “Yeah Glo!” After 23 weeks, the song remains a strong player on the charts, currently sitting at No. 50 this week. Her latest triumph came when she unleashed her Rihanna-cosigned track “TGIF,” which first became a viral hit when she teased the song when opening for Megan Thee Stallion on her sold-out Hot Girl Summer Tour earlier this summer.

Earlier this month, Glo was a presenter at the ESPYs alongside NBA star Draymond Green, where they awarded college phenom Juju Watkins with the Best Breakthrough Athlete award.

28. TyFontaine – Ascension 2: act 1

DMV rapper TyFontaine releases his highly anticipated new album, ASCENSION 2:act i, today via MNKR Music Group, marking another significant milestone in his rapidly rising career. By definition, the word “ascension” means rising to a higher level, and TyFontaine exemplifies this with his latest project.

Since his earlier works Waiting On Ascension (2019) and Ascension (2021), TyFontaine has musically and artistically elevated, creating his own ascended universe. The album’s lead single, “Adventure Time (racks on my body),” went viral, amassing over 300K views on [X] and 5.1 million views on TikTok. Following this, “Only One,” an airy summer vibe dedicated to the ladies—or as Ty’s alter R&B ego (Michi) calls them, Michi Girls—has continued to build momentum for the album.

ASCENSION 2: act i also features the focus track “Computer S3X,” which effortlessly blends Hip-Hop and Pop, showcasing TyFontaine’s ability to experiment across genres. This project is a testament to Ty’s ongoing artistic evolution, perfecting his experimentation across music and lifestyle. Several visuals for the album were shot during this year’s Paris Fashion Week, adding a stylish and global dimension to the project.

ASCENSION 2: act i is the first installment in the ASCENSION 2 series, promising more innovative music and visuals to come.

TyFontaine is making significant waves in the music industry with his versatile voice and innovative sound. His ability to blend genres and push the boundaries of rap makes him a standout artist. With the release of ASCENSION 2: act i, fans will get an inside look at the creative process and inspiration behind the album.

29. Connie Diiamond ft. Vontee The Singer – Jodeci

Bronx spitter Connie Diiamond heats up the summer with her new song,“Jodeci,” featuring Vontee The Singer. Positioned for a breakthrough, Connie serves up her latest offering out now via Def Jam Recordings. LISTEN HERE.
 
One of the standout moments of “Jodeci ” is the chorus’s interpolation of “Come & Talk to Me” by legendary R&B group Jodeci. The genius repackaging of a classic love song for the modern sexy-drill era, Connie leans into a seductive flow highlighted by quotable bars. Vontee maintains this energy with an intoxicating verse of his own – See visualizer HERE.

The track follows previously released single “Shoot,” which was featured on the soundtrack for NBA 2K24. Earlier this year, Connie was selected as a BET Amplified artist for March. A nod to her impact, she closed out 2023 with a groundbreaking collaboration for the seventh remix to her original single, “Ghetto & Ratchet,” featuring Remy Ma. The Jersey-club inspired hit saw unparalleled success and was recently performed at the  2024 BET Awards Red Carpet Live Preshow.
 
Among many accomplishments, Connie has notched major co-signs from the likes of NBA superstar LeBron James, who marveled at her viral Ludacris-sampled freestyle in 2023. The rapstress then made waves with the release of her debut LP, Underdog SZN, featuring Dame D.O.L.L.A., Don Q and more.
 
On a more recent note, Connie has been outside and making noise with an appearance at Power 105.1’s annual Angie’s Summer BBQ. With no signs of slowing down, she’s squarely positioned to take her artistry to the next level.
 
Listen to “Jodeci” above and stay tuned for more from Connie Diiamond coming soon.

30. Ralo – What's Goin On

Continuing a consistent year of releases, acclaimed Atlanta rapper Ralo drops a brand new single and music video entitled “What’s Goin On” out now via 300 Entertainment.

Listen to “What’s Goin On” HERE. Watch the music video HERE.

Once again, Ralo takes his music and uses it to give his community free game. “What’s Goin On” teaches women how they should get their bills paid and fellas on the proper way to take care of their lady. From his perspective, he advises the guys “you won’t even help with bills but you all in her home.” The lessons he lays out amount to the rhetorical question aimed at those not doing it right; “what is going on? Somebody tell me.” Meanwhile, class is in session in the music video with Ralo as the only male student among female classmates. Social media phenom Tia Kemp appears as the professor while Ralo gets up and presents to the class.

It also lands on the heels of his recent releases dedicated to Dolph, “P.R.E” & “Swimming With Dolphins [feat. Kenny Muney, Big Moochie Grape & Goldmouf]. Upon releasing the music video, it received widespread acclaim from Dirty Glove Bastard and  XXL named it one of “The 13 Best New Hip-Hop Songs This Week.” 

“This One For” accelerated the momentum from his much-anticipated comeback anthem “First Day Out.” Beyond reeling in 2.5 million YouTube views on the music video, it earned widespread acclaim. In his first interview since returning home, Complex hailed “First Day Out” as “raw and authentic,” going on to proclaim, “The track serves as a cathartic outlet for the rapper to express the mix of emotions weighing on him.” He picked up plugs from HipHopDX, HotNewHipHop, and more.

31. Blxckie – see u soon

Today, South African rap phenom Blxckie releases his eagerly anticipated major label debut EP, see u soon, via Def Jam Recordings. With this project, the award-winning rapper is showcasing not only his dynamic rapping and singing abilities, but also his willingness to incorporate different genres.  LISTEN HERE. 
 

The EP contains previously released singles “all faxx” and “pull up,” as well as an appearance from k1llbrady. Stretching to new sonic terrain, see u soon is an artful exploration of love, lifestyle, and longing with just the right amount of sun-tinged melodies. Blxckie’s freshman project arrives on the heels of his recent inclusion in the 2024 Sprite Limelight Campaign. This year, Sprite personally handpicked him to launch their third season of music programming alongside an array of other international artists – including Fireboy DML, XAMÃ, Lay Zhang, Mahalia and America’s Doechii. Making history, Blxckie stands out as “the first Def Jam Recordings artist to be picked for the program.”

At the end of last year, he made his Def Jam Recordings debut with “Back Into It.” Since its release, the song has reeled in over 1 million streams and counting. Not to mention, he was the featured artist for Apple Music’s Rap Life Africa playlist, which included gracing the cover. On top of this, Blxckie wrapped up his first-ever North American tour supporting Dreamville’s own BAS.

Fondly known to his following as SOMNYAMA, Blxckie has continually displayed a remarkable work ethic – which is heard on countless hit records, culture shifting collaborations and at live shows; and has extended his reach to broader audiences, earning him this international breakthrough signing with renowned Hip-Hop label Def Jam. 

Blxckie holds an impressive array of accolades including a South African Music Award for Best Hip-Hop Album; a nomination at the Metro FM Music Awards; five nods at the South African Hip-Hop Awards; two All Africa Music Awards nominations, and a BET Hip-Hop Award nomination for Best International Flow in 2022.

32. Black Hibiscus – TENSION

Nigerian-born & Brooklyn-based indie-soul artist Black Hibiscus releases his first single through MNRK Music Group, titled “TENSION,” featuring singer Dachelle.  Black Hibiscus, who also wrote and produced the single, says, “The track is a conversation between two people attempting to sort through the invisible tension that keeps them apart. The lush guitars and soft digital percussion set the stage for a sensual back and forth.”

Fusing the steamy ballads of Prince in the ‘80s and modern hip hop-inspired R&B production, “TENSION” is about the push and pull between destined lovers, fighting their inevitable coupling. Black Hibiscus and Dachelle exchange the mic and their “thoughts” as the song forms. The production lets us disappear into a sultry groove as we listen to an intimate heart-to-heart, anticipating fate. 

Additionally, Black Hibiscus directed the visual for “TENSION.” “The video is centered around reflection,” he says. “Shot with a very loose narrative, the scenes center around myself and Dachelle coming to an understanding of the tension between us. And the models in the video serve as projections of ourselves and our bodies that communicate on a different plane. The water, mirroring, and symmetry emphasize the reflection of our beings in each other.”

33. Tre' Rochelle – It's About Me

Known for her powerful and evocative voice, Tre’ Rochelle returns with her new single “It’s About Me”, from her forthcoming project “Back To Me” now available via Elle Roch Records. Download & Stream here.

This latest offering is a stirring anthem drawn from Tre’ Rochelle’s multifaceted life journey, encapsulating her experiences as a single mother, corporate leader, and social butterfly. The song celebrates the essence of resilience, self-love, and the power of reclaiming one’s narrative amidst life’s daily chaos and demands.

“It’s About Me” is a collaborative masterpiece produced by Antone Amalbert and penned by Just Mizz; the track also features harmonious background vocals of L’Paige and Just Mizz. Together, this dynamic team has crafted a sound that is both uplifting and empowering, resonating deeply with listeners who seek solace and inspiration in their individuality. Tre Rochelle’s heartfelt and passionate delivery further enhances the song’s powerful message, making it a must-listen for music enthusiasts.

Reflecting on the upcoming release, Tre’ Rochelle shares, This single is more than just a song to me; it’s a personal anthem that ignites a fire within me to prioritize self-love and embrace every moment. I’m beyond excited to spread this empowering energy and celebrate the journey of self-discovery with all of you! 

As she prepares to launch her forthcoming project, “Back To Me”, Tre’ Rochelle continues to pave the way for an era of music that champions resilience and self-worth, offering a beacon of hope and strength to her ever-growing fanbase.

34. Tekno – Gon Gon/Never Forget

After sending shockwaves through the global music industry barely two months ago with his groundbreaking new partnership and joint venture with Mr Eazi’s innovative independent label emPawa Africa, and kickstarting an exciting new musical era with ‘Wayo’, which has already garnered over 15 million plays online, afrobeats icon and global music sensation TEKNO is ready to go again with more exciting new music for the summer. Arriving today via Cartel Music and emPawa Africa, the award-winning Nigerian musician and producer is excited to unveil ‘GON GON’ and ‘NO FORGET’.

Highlighting his creative ingenuity, versatile ability to seamlessly blend genres, and a strong penchant for delivering consistently captivating experiences for listeners, ‘Gon Gon’ sees Tekno collaborating with producer Egar Boi to offer us an amapiano-infused summer anthem, while he enlists producer Louddaaa (Ayra Starr, Amaarae, Lojay) for the velvety smooth R&B driven ‘No Forget’. Thematically, both songs reveal a romantic and evocative side to Tekno, as he asks his special lady to be his one and only on ‘Gon Gon’, and he pours his heart out, promising undying love to her on ‘No Forget’.

Speaking about the inspiration behind ‘Gon Gon’ and ‘No Forget’, Tekno says, “I’m excited to share these new tracks with my fans. ‘Gon Gon’ is all about fun and love, capturing the carefree spirit of summer and the joy of asking someone special to be officially yours. On the other hand, ‘No Forget’ delves into a deeper emotional connection. It’s a heartfelt R&B-leaning track, where I sing about an undying love. These songs showcase a more vulnerable side of me, and I poured my heart into them. I hope everyone enjoys these songs as much as I enjoyed creating them”

35. Amelia Moore- he's just not that into you

Rising pop sensation Amelia Moore is set to captivate audiences once again with her new EP, he’s just not that into you!, out today. The project features the enchanting single track “easy,” with contributions from the acclaimed producer, Oak Felder (Demi Lovato, Kehlani, Chloe Bailey, John Legend).

“easy” is a delightful exploration of love’s lighter side, inspired by Amelia’s own transformative experiences. Reflecting on the song, Amelia shares, “For the longest time, I convinced myself that love was this scary, dramatic emotional rollercoaster that had to hurt or else it was boring. I wrote ‘easy’ because I started dating someone who shattered that entire thought process. Gross and sappy and disgusting, I know!! This song is wildly specific but also so lighthearted and captures what I think falling in love for the first time feels like.”

Building on the success of her previous project, he’s just not that into you! Vol. 1, which featured the Timbaland produced “back to him”, Amelia continues to weave her personal narratives into her music with he’s just not that into you! The title of the project nods to the 2009 romcom “He’s Just Not That Into You.” Amelia explains, “In the opening scene, Ginnifer Goodwin’s character talks about how as kids, we were trained to think that when a boy is mean to a girl, that means he has a crush on her…and how this has completely impacted the way that adult women navigate dating! Based off of all of my experiences, I wanted to make a mixtape you could send to your bestie to help them get through a situationship. For the longest time, I’ve been writing about the heartbreak and sadness I’ve felt over someone, but this music feels so much more like who I actually am, and I’m so excited for my fans to hear this side of my personality!”

Adding to the excitement, Amelia Moore is gearing up for her highly anticipated tour in support of  he’s just not that into you!. Kicking off in September 2024, the tour will take Amelia to major cities across the United States, offering fans the chance to experience her electrifying live performances and hear songs from the latest EPs, live for the first time. Tickets are on sale now HERE.

Amelia Moore’s journey from homeschooling to Hollywood has garnered over 168 million global streams, alongside recognition from Apple Music UP NEXT, Vevo DSCVR, and SiriusXM Hits 1 to Watch. Her music has garnered significant attention from publications like PAPER, Alternative Press, and the New York Times. Alternative Press, in particular, is placing its bets on Amelia, stating, “While Amelia Moore may not be a household name yet, she’s destined for stardom in the near future.”

With mesmerizing vocals, a distinctive aesthetic, and fearless lyrics, Amelia Moore’s debut EP, “Teaching a Robot to Love,” received acclaim as “arguably the strongest debut project any artist could wish to make.” As Moore releases more music, she continues to redefine the landscape of the pop genre. With he’s just not that into you, Amelia Moore continues to make her mark as a multifaceted artist unafraid to tackle universal themes with authenticity and creativity.

36. STAR BANDZ – Cut Throat

Today, groundbreaking 16-year-old rising rapper from Chicago, IL, Star Bandz, has just released her new single and video for “Cut Throat”. Known for her sharp wit and innovative style, Star Bandz is set to shake up the music scene with “Cut Throat,” out now. Watch the music video HERE.

“Cut Throat” is an electrifying anthem that highlights Star Bandz’s raw talent and unflinching lyrical prowess. Her razor-sharp rhymes and undeniable flow dismantle preconceptions, making this unapologetically fierce track a must-listen. Uniquely, Star Bandz refrains from using any explicit language in her music, setting her apart from many artists in the rap world.

Already making waves, Star Bandz has amassed over 399k followers on Instagram in record time. She was recently featured in Complex’s “Best Rap Verses of 2024 – So Far” list for her viral hit single, “Yea Yea,” which has garnered over 1M views on YouTube. She also proves that she is the youngest to ever do it on her On The Radar Freestyle – Watch HERE. With much more on the horizon including joining the bill for Veeze’s “The Worst Tour Ever” tour hitting major cities such as New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles and more, Star Bandz is poised to become a dominant force in the music industry this year.

37. RINI – Matter To You

Today, breakout R&B artist RINI releases the mesmerizing new single “Matter To You.” Listen HERE via Warner Records. Atmospheric and sprawling, the soulful odyssey allows the Australian native to push the boundaries of his creativity. Alongside the track comes a striking video, watch it HERE. “Matter To You” follows “Miracle,” his first new release of 2024. 

“We often get caught up in the many demands of today’s world, losing sight of the small joys that truly bring us happiness,” RINI says of his new single. “As an artist pursuing a dream that requires so much time and attention, I find this especially true. Striving to balance my passion with the rest of life is a lifelong lesson.” 

“Nothing compares to your touch — my love, if you go it might be too much,” RINI croons over bluesy guitar riffs and solemn percussion. Later, on the soaring chorus, he pleads: “I’ll put more time, I’ll put more effort / open my eyes, I’ll make it better.” The track’s emotional overtures and the artist’s wholly original approach to R&B are reflected in the accompanying video. 

“Matter To You” arrives on the heels of “Miracle,” his first new release since last Spring’s moody “My Luv.” That was preceded by the release of his critically acclaimed UltraViolet EP, which contained the pop-adjacent “Pressure” and hip-hop-leaning “Selfish” featuring BEAM. On Spotify alone, RINI‘s emotional tunes have racked up more than 652 million streams. That number is sure to grow with the undeniable “Matter To You.”

38. Skilla Baby – The Coldest (Deluxe)

Today, rising Detroit rapper Skilla Baby expands his breakout mixtape The Coldest with a brand-new Deluxe Edition out now via Geffen Records. Listen HERE. He notably added four brand new tracks to the record, presenting a cohesive vision in the process. To complement its arrival, he dropped the music video for the track “Booby Trap On The River” (feat. BossMan Dlow).” Watch HERE.

Among the expanded material, “Booby Trap On The River” opens up the Deluxe Edition. The song’s ominous piano loop practically chokes a tense beat, and he locks into a braggadocios back-and-forth with BossMan Dlow. On the hook, Skilla Baby proclaims, “In that Maybach, I be feeling like Rick Ross, baby.” The music video projects this energy on-screen including interactions with fans and scenes from a performance. Skilla Baby and BossMan Dlow command attention in every frame. Notably The Coldest just crossed over 100 million streams to date. 

The glitchy bounce of “Body Bangin” brushes up against his lusty flow, “You look heaven-sent, baby Amen.” A trap stomp sets the pace for “RYN” where he turns up with DaBaby and Baby Money. Then, there’s “Soulja Slimm.” On the latter, he flexes alongside Rob49, comparing their chemistry to that of Juvenile and Soulja Slim and boasting,  “They know me by first name at Saks 5^th and Neiman Marcus.”

The deluxe follows the music video for “Project X (G6)” featuring and directed by DaBaby. Watch HERE. As of late, he has ignited one stunning music video after another, including “Misfit,” “Bulletproof,” and “Free Big Meech.”

Speaking to his impact, Skilla Baby is officially a part of XXL’s coveted 2024 Freshman Class as this year’s “People’s Champ”—voted by the fans.

Skilla Baby concluded his co-headline “Vultures Eat The Most” Tour with Rob49, and he’ll ignite Broccoli City Festival in Washington, D.C. on July 27. He sat down for an exclusive interview with People who observed, “Doing whatever he feels seems to be the ultimate mission for Skilla Baby. And right now, he feels like hitting the road with fellow MC and another hit-maker destined to do things on his own accord, Rob49.” Skilla Baby has been on a hot streak with recent plugs in the Associated Press, Galore, Billboard, Stereogum, Rolling Out (cover story) and more. Among many accolades, Skilla Baby graced the 2024 BET Awards red carpet.

Thus far, Skilla Baby has amassed nearly 400 million streams. He has notched major co-signs from the likes of Big Sean, Jack Harlow, Southside, Coi Leray, City Girls, Rylo Rodriguez, Rob49, Tee Grizzley, Luh Tyler, YTB Fatt, and many others.

39. Jay Park ft. Jessi, Awich, MILLI, Ramengvrl, Lil Cherry, MIRANI, Maliibu Miitch, CAMO – Xtra McNasty

Coming off the steam with his single, “McNasty”, Korean-American rapper Jay Park releases the remix titled “Xtra McNasty”. The song features a star studded line-up of women rappers from all over the world to add their own spin on the song. The bill includes New York rapper Maliibu Miitch, Japanese rapper Awich, Thai rapper MILLI, Indonesian rapper Ramengvrl, as well as Jessi, Lil Cherry, MIRANI and CAMO from Korea. Each artist adds their own flair to the song, supporting the original lyricalism by Jay Park to create a fresh new take on the song. You can stream “Xtra McNasty” HERE. You can watch the music video HERE.

Jay Park’s ability to tap in the market around the world shows the love the industry has for him in addition to the strategic person he is. With a career that spans across multiple genres, he settles into his R&B roots this fall with the release of his long-awaited full length album set to release later this year. 

40. Young The Giant – Mind Over Matter (10th Anniversary Edition)

Today, critically-acclaimed, multi-platinum selling band Young The Giant releases Mind Over Matter (10th Anniversary Edition). Upon its original release, Mind Over Matter (produced by Justin Meldal-Johnsen and mixed by Rich Costey) reached #7 on the Billboard 200 chart and #2 on Top Rock Albums. The album’s title track has been a staple of the band’s catalog since and was recently certified Platinum.

To celebrate 10 years of one of their most beloved albums, the exclusive deluxe version comes in clear smoke vinyl and includes a 12-page booklet with never-before seen photos, a double sided fold-out poster, and slipcover — Order / Download. The tracklist includes 3 never-before-released demos and the new song “Metropolis (Acoustic)” that was released earlier this month. Written by lead singer Sameer Gadhia over a decade ago, Young The Giant began teasing “Metropolis” on their 2023 American Bollywood World Tour.

The band shared, “‘Mind Over Matter’ is an album that was the product of us taking a lot of sonic risks and ended up being a stepping stone in our craft that helped us grow as artists and individuals. We’ve loved seeing this album become a fan staple, especially the song ‘Mind Over Matter.’ Over the last few years, there’s been a resurgence and rediscovery of the song that has been so organic and beautiful. We’re proud to present this 10-Year Anniversary edition that includes ‘What You Get,’ a previously unreleased song pulled from our archives, two demos of fan favorite songs ‘Mind Over Matter’ and ‘Camera’, and acoustic track ‘Metropolis.’”

Currently underway, Young The Giant is out on the road with Cage The Elephant and Bakar for the Neon Pill Tour with several sold out shows in Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto, Nashville and New York. This is truly one of the power lineups of artists who have shaped the modern alt-rock genre. Along the way, Young The Giant made stops at Shaky Knees and Boston Calling, with Outside Lands, Bourbon & Beyond and Oceans Calling festivals still to come — See all dates here.

Young The Giant was established in 2004 and is comprised of Sameer Gadhia (vocals), Jacob Tilley (guitar), Eric Cannata (guitar), Francois Comtois (drums) and Payam Doostzadeh (bass).

Young The Giant is repped by United Talent Agency and Activist Artists Management.

41. Tempest ft. Amindi – The Ranch

Tempest made a splash at SXSW as part of the RNB FOREVER official artist showcase this year. Recent and upcoming collaborators include Amindi, Naomi Wild, WEST SIDE BOOGIE, Zyah Belle, and Asha Imuno. Tempest booked numerous DJ appearances at Tenants Of The Trees in LA, CA during 2023, with more appearances to come. Recognized as an Artist to Watch by Complex Pigeons and Planes last year and with a stint on Jordan Ward’s FOREWARD Tour, Tempest’s career trajectory is undeniably promising.

42. Diljit Dosanjh & NLE Choppa – Muhammad Ali

43. DINER – N.A.S.C.A.R.

44. Joshua Bassett – The Golden Years

Today, acclaimed singer, songwriter, and actor Joshua Bassett releases his hotly anticipated debut album, The Golden Years. Listen HERE via Warner Records. A snapshot of Bassett’s life, the album’s diaristic lyrics capture the highs and lows of his transition from adolescence to adulthood.

“Encapsulating the bitter-sweet nostalgia of my late teens and early twenties, my debut album is a love-letter to “the golden years” of my life thus far,” Bassett shares. “This body of work spans the hope and heartbreak of my transition into adulthood. It’s a genre-bending journal entry from the bottom of my heart.”

The album kicks off with the vulnerable “Biting My Tongue,” transitioning into the fan-favorite lead singles “The Golden Years” and “Dancing With Tears In My Eyes.” Other highlights include the blissful “Cherry Blossom,” the piano-driven “Would Ya Tell Me,” and “Don’t Let Me Down” — a duet with rising pop artist Jenna Raine dripping in sparkling harmonies.

On July 30, Bassett will kick off The Golden Years North American headline tour in Phoenix, making stops in Houston, Atlanta, New York, and more before wrapping up in Los Angeles at YouTube Theater on September 3. Bassett will kick off the European leg of the tour in Dublin on September 16, continuing to London, Paris, Milan, and more, before concluding in Copenhagen on October 9. See all tour dates below and click HERE for more information.

The album follows the release of 2023’s inspiring “Just Love.” Last year also saw Bassett pack venues across the globe on his spring headline run, as well as the release of season 4 of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, in which he reprised the character Ricky. In 2022, he released the deeply personal Sad Songs In A Hotel Room EP as well as his equally intimate, 4-track EP Different.

Now, with The Golden Years, Bassett shares his heart and his story across 11 unforgettable songs. 

45. Nessa Barrett – Passenger Princess

Today, breakout alt-pop artist Nessa Barrett 

returns with the soaring “PASSENGER PRINCESS.” Listen HERE via Warner Records and watch the lyric video HERE. Showcasing Barrett’s signature sultry pop sound, the track marks her first release of 2024 and also serves as the first taste of her sophomore album, AFTERCARE, arriving later this year.

“’PASSENGER PRINCESS’ represents the intense honeymoon phase when you first enter in a new relationship — the mindset where you would do anything for the one you love just to experience the passion of a connection,” Barrett explains.

Earlier this summer, Barrett joined Lana Del Rey on stage at Hangout Festival, where the duo performed Barrett’s fan-favorite 2023 single “american jesus,” from her celebrated hell is teenage girl EP. Last year also saw her release “girl in new york,” the heartfelt “club heaven,” and her pulse-pounding collaboration with Whethan, “sick of myself.” Shortly after, she hit the road for her fully sold-out church club for the lonely tour, which included two main stage performances at Austin City Limits Festival.

After being named as one of Billboard’s “21 Under 21” twice — as well as being featured on Forbes’ “Top Creators: Fashion 50,” Uproxx’s “Next Hitmakers List,” People Magazine’s “Emerging Artist List,” and Ones to Watch’s list of “25 Artists to Watch in 2022” — Nessa Barrett has gone on to accumulate nearly 2 billion global streams to date. In 2022, she was also nominated for Push Performance of the Year at the MTV VMAs, performed at When We Were Young Festival, and took her show on the road for her sold out North American and European tours in support of her acclaimed debut album young forever.

46. Noah RInker – After Dark

Emerging singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Noah Rinker makes his Warner Records debut with new EP After Dark, featuring the emotionally-charged single “I Hope It Hurts.” Listen to After Dark HERE.

About the Warner signing, Noah adds, “It feels incredible to have a partner like Warner Records that truly understands both me and my vision. I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to share my music and grow with the support of the best team in the music business.”

The entirely self-produced 5-track project follows his 2023 breakout single “Off My Mind,” showcasing his seamless folk-pop blend with confessional lyrics that captivate. Buzzing out of the mountains of central California, Noah initially made waves online, posting covers and originals on TikTok. He enraptured listeners with a stripped-down sense of soul conveyed through shuddering acoustic guitar chords and stark lyricism punctuated by his vulnerability and storytelling. This approach attracted hundreds of thousands of followers in addition to generating north of 5 million likes on TikTok. He caught the attention of Warner Records in 2024, signing to the label and kicking off a new chapter.

It begins now with After Dark. Stay tuned for more from Noah Rinker very soon.

47. Dipper – Boy Can Dream

Today, rising country singer and songwriter Dipper shares a wistfully heartbroken new single entitled “Boy Can Dream” out now. Listen to “Boy Can Dream” HERE via underscore works recordings / Warner Records.

On the track, his reflective verses glide over bright acoustic guitar pinned to a steady beat. He converts his longing into a catchy chorus as he confesses, “I can take the fact you’re gone or that you ain’t coming back to me, but a boy can dream.” 

It follows the recent fan favorite “You’re The One.” Today’s Country Magazine praised how “Dipper finds perfect balance in his crafting of an upbeat, potential wedding playlist favorite by keeping a strong bend on the country music laurels of back when while stamping a firm foothold on the current generation sound of right here and now.” 

Dipper notably closed out 2023 with the Evergreen EP. Today’s release follows his singles “Hated Myself” and “She’s Got Wings.” The project claimed coveted real estate on Spotify playlists such as “Next From Nashville” and “Young Nashville.” Dipper also shined at the Spotify House experience at Nashville’s 2023 CMA Fest. 

Be on the lookout for a whole lot more from Dipper in 2024. 

48. Kill Dyll – C4

Today, rising trap metal provocateur Kill Dyll releases his menacing new single “C4.” Listen HERE via Warner Records. Tinged with industrial elements, bombastic beats, and foreboding imagery, the track finds Dyll at his disruptive best. It arrives less than a week after he brought his ferocious, uncompromising sound to a headlining, sold-out show in Denver. 

“I ain’t gonna die,” the newcomer spits over fuzzed-out bass, eerie samples, and assaulting percussion. “I came with a nine and a vest, rip into the best.” The track culminates with the chanted refrain: “Not to play, four-five all day.” As usual, Dyll pushes the boundaries of trap-metal fusion forward while sharing his wholly unique worldview. 

“C4” arrives soon after the release of Dyll’s stand-alone track “Cat Nap,” as well as his recent EP, EMBRACE THE CHAOS VOL.1. That release included powerful and varied tracks such as “Van Gogh’s Left Ear” and “Slur.” It was preceded by the infectious track “F U In Advance!,”“God’s Failed Experiment,” and “I Saw Jesus Christ in the Parking Lot.” 

Prior to that, Dyll dropped his EP ANTAGONIST, which includes tracks like the relentless “INTESTINES” and “VOID” with Slowboy. Those releases were teed up by the release of “FEAST,” which he produced with Witchouse 40k, as well as the pulverizing track “PARANOIA.”

Now, with “C4,” the up-and-comer continues to do things his way, delivering a track that is as poignant as it is pulverizing.

49. Quin NFN – Second To None

Quin NFN stacks syllables into relentless verses that expertly mix outlandish smack talk and bracing realities. Striking that balance with aplomb, the Austin, TX rapper shares Second To None, his new album, out now via NFN Entertainment/EMPIRE. Second To None is a triumphant moment for Quin NFN, arriving after a year marked by health scares that affected him and his young family. Over crisp production from the likes of Getta Beats, ForeveRollin, Cio Made The Track, and more, Quin flexes his prodigious talent, rhyming with intensity as he seeks to prove that he is the hardest out. 

The new album is home to “Just Getting By, Pt. 2,” a new single that lays out the mission statement for the album, as he vows to support his family by going as hard as he can. Late 2023 single “Loose Lips,” an anthem for the real ones in a sea of fakes, also finds its home on the record. The 16-track album is home to collaborations with kindred spirits that show his versatility. “JEFE” finds the 23-year-old rapper rhyming in English and Spanish in a fast-rhyming tandem with That Mexican OT. Quin links up with an artist he has long admired, Sauce Walka, and the two artists directly confront the problems that come with fame in the simmering “Boss N**** Blues.” The young rapper ventures out of Texas for the hard-knocking “House Calls,” welcoming 03 Greedo to provide his hiccuping melodies, which mesh perfectly with Quin’s verbal assault. 

Along with the album, Quin drops the music video for “New Detroit Flow,” a Second To None highlight, which goes live on YouTube at 2pm ET. Produced by Getta Beats, who provides the propulsive piano arpeggios and blown-out drums characteristic of Michigan rap, the song is a tribute to a rap region he has long admired. Quin locks into the beat’s pocket, stacking punchlines with aplomb: “Quincho bought some ice, cause I ain’t never got to chill/N****s green as pickles, that’s why they ain’t got a deal,” he spits. In the video, shot in crisp black & white by director Sebastian Santiago, Quincho holes up in a warehouse with nothing but his G Wagon for company, striking fear into the heart of any rapper who would try to step to him. 

Second To None is the latest milestone in the 23-year-old rapper’s burgeoning career. After learning how to rhyme in his youth by studying the greats like Lil Wayne, the Austin native first drew attention in 2019 when he was just a teenager, making a name for himself in a city known more for other genres than hip-hop. Quin’s talent was undeniable, though, as demonstrated in the thumping, minimalist banger “Talkin My Sh*t” (33+ million Spotify streams), and he quickly became one of the fastest-rising stars in his state. He kept the momentum going with “Poles,” a ferocious collaboration with NLE Choppa (44+ million Spotify streams), and 2021’s “Laid Back” (31+ million Spotify streams), and earned a deal with 10K Projects. In 2023, Quin started a new chapter of his career as an independent artist, releasing the album Never On Time via EMPIRE and his own NFN Entertainment. 

With Second To None out now and a chip on his shoulder, Quin NFN is ready to reach the next level. Stay tuned for more. 

Stream Second To None: https://music.empi.re/secondtonone

50. Mustard – Faith Of A Mustard Seed