New Music Roundup (Oct 30 - Nov 3)

1. Connie Diiamond ft. Jenn Carter – Ghetto & Ratchet (Remix)

Bringing together two boroughs and styles, rapidly rising Bronx spitter Connie Diiamond taps buzzing Brooklyn phenom Jenn Carter of 41 for a knockout Remix of “Ghetto & Ratchet” out today via Def Jam Recordings.

Jenn Carter adds another dimension to the track with particularly punchy flow underlined by her unmistakable cadence and undeniable fire. Connie locks into a captivating back-and-forth with her, cementing “Ghetto & Ratchet” as a fresh catchphrase for all of New York in the process.

Connie continues to make waves. She recently participated in Hip-Hop Re:Defined, a limited series in celebration of hip-hop’s 50^th anniversary, by delivering what GRAMMY.com praises as “a fierce rendition of Remy Ma’s 2006 breakthrough single ‘Conceited’.”

It continues a hot streak she ignited with her debut project, Underdog Szn, earlier this summer. Beyond posting up millions of streams, the latter earned widespread critical acclaim. In a massive feature, V Magazine noted, “Connie Diiamondhas remained Hip Hop’s best kept secret for almost a decade, but now she’s ready to step out from behind the curtain and take her place in the spotlight.” XXL proclaimed, “Overall, she’s focused on good vibes and elevation, the latter of which she’s surely been doing.” OKAYPLAYER touted it among “8 New Albums You Need To Hear This Week” and Rap-Up attested, “Her use of fierce hooks and calculated wordplay is helping her profile rise with the release of every song.”

Across nine tracks on Underdog Szn, she flexes her raucous wordplay and hard-hitting hooks joined by guests such as Don Q, Dame D.O.L.L.A., and KenTheMan for the “Move (Remix).” Listen to Underdog Szn—HERE.

The standout track “Move” caught fire to the tune of 1 million streams and counting, while even Lebron James co-signed her by proclaiming on his Instagram story, “Man she bodied that shit!!! WHOA.” Built around a sample of the Ludacris classic “Move Bitch” [feat. Mystikal & I-20], she tears through the production with razor-sharp rhymes and practically incinerates the beat with scorching bars.

It’s Underdog Szn, and Connie Diiamond’s imminent takeover is underway!

2. 408 – Remember Her Like That

408 have shared their latest single, “Remember Her Like That” released via alt rock label Big Noise. The Orlando based, high energy act is known for their unique, genre bending sound stemming from a melting pot of new-wave pop punk, hip-hop, modern pop and EDM. 

“Remember Her Like That” carries the punchy melodies of classic pop punk tracks while maintaining an iridescent ambiance that stays true to the quartet themselves. The softer single captures a lasting snapshot of a significant other, like a ghost haunting a comforting memory floating in the back of your mind, stored away for safekeeping. Unable to let go of what’s already been lost, 408 lament over fragile, broken pieces of a relationship before truly being able to move on. 

The song takes listeners on an emotional journey back in time, reminiscing on the nostalgic feelings of missing someone you once loved. 

“Remember Her Like That” was written with Nick Bailey, Kyle Fishman and Matt Thiessen of Relient K” shares the group. “The band wanted to tap into their Jimmy Eat World inspirations and make a song that was energetic and anthemic. The band and writers sat in a room in Nashville and shared a story that many have gone through when you no longer have the person you love in your life, but you will always remember her.” 

Most recently, 408 dropped their cheeky song and video for “Break Up With Your Girlfriend.” 

Listen to “Break Up With Your Girlfriend” here: https://bignoise.ffm.to/buwyg  

Catch the music video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DdG8n_dPpVc 

Previous hits like “We Don’t Get High Like We Used To”, “Backfired (ft. Taylor Acorn)” and “Mark Hoppus,” which gained traction and praise from Mark himself, have opened the band’s door from a national to worldwide audience. 

408 recently completed a US tour with Magnolia Park, poptropicaslutz and Tx2 and are gearing up to release new music following the band’s signing of a global record deal with Big Noise earlier this year. 

3. JasonMartin – A Compton Story, Pt. 1

New name, who dis…  After announcing a name change (from his professional name Problem, to his birth name JasonMartin) with his I Owe Myself album earlier this year, the multi-hyphenate, now known as JasonMartin, has reached great heights as an artist, producer, film director, business owner (Dubbs Coffee Shop in Hollywood), entrepreneur (his Coffee & Kush Brand) and as a fledging actor (he appeared in the White Men Can’t Jump Reboot). 

After releasing the A Compton Story film in October (which is available on Tubi), which he starred in, wrote and directed, JasonMartin is releasing the album(s) companion piece(s) to the film, which will be released in two separate installments. 

The first installment of A Compton Story PT. 1 features guest appearances and production from Diddy, Childish Gambino, Schoolboy Q, DJ Quik, Hit-Boy, Rich Homie Quan, T.I., Kaytranada, Jay Worthy & Harry Fraud among others is now available at all DSP’s.   

JasonMartin’s A Compton Story PT. 1 is now available at all DSP’s. 

JasonMartin will release the second installment, A Compton Story PT. 2 on November 10, with guest and producers to be announced.  

You can now purchase, stream, add, and favorite A Compton Story PT. 1 album at your preferred DSP: https://orcd.co/comptonstorypt1

4. Jharrel Jerome – Love Pack

hip-hop artist and award-winning actor Jharrel Jerome releases Love Pack – the third music pack in his previously announced 4-pack project titled Someone I’m Not. Following the release of Rap Pack in August and Trip Pack in September, Love Pack is also composed of 4 tracks, including the already released “You Do You.” Love Pack puts Jharrel’s heart on full display, marking the pack as his most intimate and raw release yet. On “You Do You,” Jharrel’s conspiratorial and sensual verses complement the song’s jazz instrumentals. For Love Pack, Jharrel collaborated with Jonathan Marquez, William Leong, Hollywood Cole, and Kosine, who served as co-writers and producers on the project.  

The release of Love Pack is accompanied by an 8-minute multi-track video written by and starring Jharrel. The video was directed by Shomi Patwary, who also served as a co-writer alongside Devon Jackson.     

In support of Rap Pack, VIBE Magazine stated that “social media was enamored with the single [‘The Cycle’]” and compared his “‘timeless’ flow and potential star power to Kendrick Lamar and Drake.”  

Following today’s release of Love Pack will be the anticipated release of Trap Pack – which form Jharrel’s complete debut album project – Someone I’m Not.  

Racking up over 5.5M streams on Spotify alone with his debut release “For Real (feat. Kemba),” Jharrel continues to make waves as an artist-to-watch, garnering acclaim from Billboard, UPROXX, BuzzFeed, Essence, and more. He followed things up with his 2022 single “Someone I’m Not,” which The FADER praised for “the beat’s soulful motions and Jerome’s punched, introspective bars.”  

This year on-screen Jharrel starred in and served as an Executive Producer on the Prime Video series I’m A Virgo by writer-director Boots Riley. The series was met with wide praise and adoration, reflected by the show’s “certified fresh” score of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. He was soon after seen co-starring in the Steven Soderbergh MAX series Full Circle and is midproduction starring as wrestler Anthony Robles in the film, Unstoppable, from Producers Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. 

5. ThxSoMch – LOST!

Rising Toronto-based artist ThxSoMch has unleashed his brand new single “LOST!”. The song is available to stream and download beginning today HERE via Elektra. 

Collaborating with multi-platinum, chart-topping producer BNYX [Travis Scott, Lil Uzi Vert, Drake, Yeat], ThxSoMch injects Nu metal influences into his ever-evolving sound on “LOST!”. Old school turntable scratching tears through steady drums as ThxSoMch launches into kinetic verses, before warning, “Everybody shut up, I got something to say.” Directed by frequent collaborator and fellow visionary Tommy Kiljoy, the bruised and bloodied visual seamlessly channels the energy of the song on-screen.

About “LOST!”, ThxSoMch shares, “I heard what BNYX was doing with Yeat, and I realized he’s different. I thought we could make some weird shit together. I made ‘LOST!” at 10am. I hadn’t gone to sleep yet, and I was a little high. I drank two Red Bulls, and I was feeling a little out of my mind. I felt lost.”

Fans got their first taste of “LOST!” on ThxSoMch’s first-ever Sleez World Tour, which saw him perform to sold out crowds across Europe, The UK, and The US in August. The song has already become a staple in his energetic live set. ThxSoMch just announced he will deliver his debut hometown show at Toronto’s Bovine Sex Club on December 6. Tickets for the show are now available HERE. ThxSoMch is expected to announce additional touring plans soon.

“LOST!” marks the first new music from ThxSoMch since the summer release of his singles “Waste My Mind” and “Spiral”. The tracks maintained the momentum of ThxSoMch’s critically acclaimed debut EP Sleez, which was released in May via Elektra. The EP arrived to widespread praise from Complex, Lyrical Lemonade, Sheesh, Early Rising, Our Generation Music, and more, and debuted in the Top 15 on Billboard’s Heatseekers Albums chart. Upon release, Ones To Watch proclaimed, “ThxSoMch has created a record full of unyielding energy, gut-wrenching lyrics, and powerful hooks that hit listeners hard.” Sleez is available to stream and download now HERE.  

Offering a rare glimpse into his creative process, ThxSoMch recently spoke to Genius as part of the platform’s coveted Verified series to discuss Sleez’s breakout hit single “SPIT IN MY FACE!”. Watch the interview HERE. The propulsive track has already amassed over 330 million streams, charted on the Billboard Hot 100, and appeared on countless marquee playlists across streaming platforms.  

Across Sleez, ThxSoMch effortlessly blurs the angst of 90s alternative with the raw energy of 2000s SoundCloud rap, presenting each track alongside an equally striking visual. ThxSoMch set the stage for Sleez with the release of early singles/videos “Hate.”, “Keep It Tucked”, “Caroline”, and “Crumbled”. Following the EP’s release, he unveiled official videos for “Swap Places” and “Vile”. 

6. JayO – Often

JayO is an explorer. Whether it be his literal location, his sound or his style, the 24-year-old singer, songwriter and producer is not interested in being stuck in one place. “I try and do everything, try and see everything,” the North London artist explains. Accordingly, the British-Nigerian artist’s output is hard to pin down under one specific umbrella; since his teen years, he’s been uploading tracks and tapes to the internet and teasing songs on social media over the years, trying his hand at everything from grime, hip-hop, house, R&B and Afrobeats. These days, it’s the latter two genres which take centre-stage in his sound. JayO’s first official releases, ‘XO’ and the aforementioned ‘22’, have had an especially huge reception – the former a slinky, humid track; the latter, a sexy number laden with sultry clouds of piano and sweet, delicate vocals. In the summer of 2023, he performed at the Black British cultural moment that was Stormzy’s This Is What We Mean Day. But, as JayO puts it: “I feel like I’m just at the beginning of my journey.” 
 
Inspired by a youth spent running around in church, or else visiting family in Nigeria, listening to Afrobeats and old school R&B at parties there, the unifying factor for JayO’s music is a desire to recreate the feeling those spaces gave him: “That feel-good music that you can still hit play on at a party even forty years later? For me, my music is an interpretation of that feeling…I make music that makes people feel good.” It’s a multi-genre sound he’s been honing since being a kid messing about on a laptop, alongside trips to his local youth club, getting behind the mic in the studio space there. To this day, many of the early takes of his music are made in his bedroom, singing into a mic with his laptop perched on his legs. It’s perhaps this which lends JayO’s sound a particularly warm sense of intimacy.
 
On his forthcoming music, JayO is building on that gentle feel-good vibe. He may just be getting started, but his journey is already one filled with tantalising promise. This is music that brings to life the exciting caress of connection, the heady, nocturnal locking of eyes with someone at a party, the heat of what is left unspoken. Like the artist himself, this is a sound that reverberates with the exploration of possibility.

7. Fresh x Reckless – Assembol

Fresh x Reckless (@freshxreckless), the dynamic hip-hop duo known for their TikTok viral sensation “Blicky,” just dropped a highly anticipated new track, “ASSEMBOL.” This latest release delivers an irresistible blend of dancehall vibes and hip-hop bounce elements, guaranteed to get audiences moving to its infectious beats.

Their breakout hit, “Blicky,” took the world by storm. The song quickly became their first number one hit, with over 30 Million views on TikTok, surpassing expectations. The massive popularity and success of the song is in thanks in part to their creation of a viral dance challenge. Now, with a dedicated audience and fans who are tuned into their every move, the duo is keeping up the momentum with “ASSEMBOL.”

The duo has successfully leveraged social media to connect with their fans on a personal level, regularly going live and involving their followers in various activities, including talent showcases and giveaways. They recently went viral at the VMA awards for their signature pose, which is just them being original.

Fresh x Reckless, who hail from New Orleans, have carved their own unique path in the music industry. The duo’s journey began when they met at a video shoot several years ago, merging their talents to create a dynamic group that can do it all. The name “Fresh x Reckless” embodies their essence – “clean cuts” combined with the unbridled energy of the 504. Fresh x Reckless explained, “Running around, fresh, and we can get reckless.”

Fresh x Reckless are not immune to the occasional criticism, but they believe in staying true to themselves. They shared their philosophy, saying, “We don’t care what people say, but we care.” They’re determined to keep blazing their own trail and have garnered support from fellow artists like Rae Sremmurd, who acknowledged their unique contributions to the industry.

“ASSEMBOL,” showcases a different side of their artistry. “We’re more serious with our artistry,” they noted. They are here to stay and ready to engage with their fans, who have shown immense love and support throughout their journey. The track symbolizes their journey and connection with their fans, and what’s to come in the future.

Listen to “ASSEMBOL” here

https://open.spotify.com/album/0HeW7zmXck8o9aiL6AO6xv

Or 

https://music.apple.com/us/album/assembol-single/1711432695

8. Breez Kennedy ft. Genia – Need U Tonite

Continuing a rapid rise, 17-year-old singer, songwriter, and R&B viral sensation Breez Kennedy shares a new single + video entitled “Need U Tonite” featuring Def Jam labelmate Genia, out now via Standard Records/Def Jam Recordings. 

On the track, soulful acoustic guitar wraps around a smooth beat as Breez’s vocals mesmerize. Opening up straight from the heart, he confidently carries the chantable chorus, “Need you by my side, you’re my favorite vibe.” Genia slides through with her own perspective on an equally impactful verse punctuated by towering high register. The chemistry between these two buzzing talents instantly sizzles.

He ignited this hot streak with the recent favorite “Life My Ex.”Beyond plugs from the likes of Global Grind and more, UPROXX hailed 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 as the follow-up to his rapidly rising debut single “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 caught 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. This clip has already posted up 2 million views and counting. He meets the demand with the track today!

Right from the jump, he affirmed himself as a self-sufficient phenomenon by writing, recording, and producing the bulk of his music by himself. He has quietly buzzed out of St. Petersburg, FL with a signature style, balancing Bryson Tiller’s adventurousness with pop magnetism a la Justin Bieber. 

9. Baby Tate – Jersey

Boundary-breaking rap visionary Baby Tate unveils a striking new video for “Jersey,” a Justin Tranter produced standout from her just-released EP, Baby Tate Presents – Sexploration: The Musical via Warner Records. As with her transformative project, the visual for “Jersey” is as inventive as it is engrossing. 

“Jersey” is the latest vignette of her “musical,” addressing the universality of heartbreak before rolling the curtains back for an intimate performance. The show begins with Tate rapping out a tale of romantic disappointment: “I’m in the middle of Nеw Jersey/Cryin’ in the club/Thinkin’ about all thе ways you hurt me/You don’t give a fuck.”

As she skitters over the pulsing Jersey club beat, they join her in a dance of sadness. With a mix of sharp choreography and Baby Tate’s own exaggerated tears and crying faces, the visual scans as a playful exercise in melodrama. It’s a shimmering spotlight cultivated from the mind of one of the Atlanta area’s most original performers, a status she reaffirms with her latest EP. Full tracklist below. 

In celebration of the release, Baby Tate and friends made Sexploration: The Mocumentary- a fun and funny series for your pleasure. Each episode features exclusive clips with cast members, dancers, and creators who give their uncensored and unapologetic stories on what it’s like to work with the rising star. Watch HERE. 

Baby Tate Presents – Sexploration: The Musical distills all the emotional, genre-fluid stylings that made her an engrossing force of musical creativity. The rising artist has been fusing pop, rap, and R&B since the release of her 2015 debut project, ROYGBIV, which she followed with 2019’s acclaimed GIRLS, and 2021’s After the Rain. Baby Tate Presents – Sexploration: The Musical cements her status as one of hip-hop’s most exciting artists.

10. Journey Montana – Cry Baby

R&B pop princess Journey Montana has released her latest single “Cry Baby.” 

The release continues Journey’’s hard-hitting run, after her latest single “Jack” and last year’s breakout single “Bad Decisions” which boasted over 2.8M streams after going viral on TikTok. She has already received early love from partners in lists like NMF, R&B Weekly, Channel X (Spotify), Breaking R&B, New in R&B, The New New York, Brown Sugar (Apple Music), and Breakthrough R&B (Amazon).

With Cry Baby being one of the leading tracks off her upcoming EP “Stargirl” releasing 11/17, 2023 is expected to be the rising star’s biggest year yet. Bear witness to Journey Montana’s ascent to R&B royalty.

11. Lady London – S.O.U.L.

Buzzing New York rapper Lady Londonproudly presents her new project, S.O.U.L, available now via High Standardz/Def Jam Recordings.

This bold body of work consists of 13 unpredictable and undeniable tracks. Among many highlights, confessional verses intoxicate on “D.R.U.N.K.” as she admits “Love it when you call me and I’m faded on some drunk shit.” She teams up with Tink on the impactful and infectious “Way Too Much (Pisces).” Between another blockbuster hook, Lady London and Tink lock into a potent back-and-forth punctuated by searing observations a la “I made you the man you are.” Energy surges through “Kall Me” where she ignites a lyrical volley with Omeretta. It culminates on a conflicted chorus, “That shit we got too broken baby, call me when you’re here.” Then, there’s “Indecisive.”Hi-hats simmer beneath a flurry of fiery rhymes from Lady London as she laments, “Really indecisive, should’ve known he was a libra.” The finale “Close To Me” layers her towering high register above rich production. It teems with power and passion in equal measure.

To celebrate the arrival of S.O.U.L, she just shared a sultry and seductive music video for the buzzing single “Do Something” [with Jeremih]. The clip finds her preparing for a dinner with her beau at home as she cooks and sips wine alone only for the mood to reach a boiling point as the action unfolds in the bedroom. She initially paved the way for the project with “Do Something.” Beyond gaining traction at DSPs with nearly half-a-million streams, it picked up critical acclaim. VIBE professed, “Her delivery is that of a woman who demands a certain standard from men who want her attention yet somehow her dismissiveness makes it all the more enjoyable.”

Notably, S.O.U.L stands for “Signs of Universal Love.” Executive produced by Lady London & Jeremy “J Dot” Jones, an astrological theme threads the songs together into a concept-driven body of work. She explores the essence of humanity through the prism of the Zodiac, pondering love languages, do’s, don’ts, triggers, and the other celestial mechanisms that make us tick. Meanwhile, the zodiac signs of the featured guests even match the mood of their respective songs.
 
She teased this chapter with “Yea Yea” [with Dreezy]. Inciting critical applause, Vibe noted, “Lady London and Dreezy have teamed up to level the relationship playing field in their new track ‘Yea Yea’,” and GRUNGECAKE hailed it as “catchy.” XONecole named it one of the “Singles To Have In Rotation.”

It followed her viral banger “Pop Ya Shit.”Thus far, the latter has posted up millions of Spotify streams and counting. In addition to landing plugs from Variety, Billboard, Global Grind,, and more, Attack The Culture! raved, “Some rap artists just hit harder and that’s the case for Lady London. The R&B rap star has all the elements to be legendary and proves it.” Meanwhile, Brooklyn Vegan praised how the track, “will take you right back to the early 2000s.”
 
It’s time for Lady London to soar on S.O.U.L
 
Born to Caribbean parents and raised in The Bronx and East Orange, NJ, she obsessed over hip-hop and R&B since her childhood. After achieving a BS from Howard University and a Master’s degree from USC, she flipped the script, opting to forego medical school in order to follow her passion for music. She built an audience by posting viral videos of her poetry, paving the way for her show-stopping freestyle series “Lady Londays.” Attracting a burgeoning following of over a million on Instagram, her lyrical acumen has incited the applause of Busta Rhymes, Cardi B, Lupe Fiasco, Timbaland, and Nas, to name a few.
 

12. Turbo & Gunna – Bachelor

GRAMMY Award-nominated and Diamond-certified powerhouse producer Turbo releases his first solo single “Bachelor” featuring multiplatinum superstar Gunna, out now via 300 Entertainment.

Built around a piano-laden sample of James Blake’s “Do You Ever,” Turbo’s instantly recognizable production sets the tone with a distinct 808 bounce and skittering electronics. Gunna slides through with an alternately smooth and scorching flow punctuated by his masterful dynamics. The track evokes a throwback spirit, while it also clearly hints at the future of its creator’s fluid and fiery artistry.

Most recently, Turbo cooked up six tracks from Gunna’s critically acclaimed 2023 album a Gift & a Curse, including the lead single “bread & butter.” Of course, the success only extended his now-legendary run with the rap superstar. It began when Turbo served as executive producer for the multiplatinum blockbuster collaborative mixtape Drip Harder by Lil Baby and Gunna. He notably produced the Diamond-certified “Drip Too Hard” as well as the platinum “Never Recover” with Drake and “Close Friends.” His growing catalog also encompasses “Wunna” by Gunna, “YOSEMITE” by Travis Scott, NAV, and Gunna, and “3 Headed Snake” by Young Thug and Gunna, among others.

13. Tee Grizzley – Tee's Coney Island

Multiplatinum Detroit storyteller Tee Grizzley unveils his anxiously awaited new album, Tee’s Coney Island, out now via Grizzley Gang/300 Entertainment. 

The 16-track body of work sees Tee return to his roots. He chose the name Tee’s Coney Island as an homage to hometown staple diner Coney Island back in his hometown Detroit. This moniker hints at his musical and lyrical vision, which places a focus on his classic street narration and hood poetry. Of course, it’s the same vibe at the heart of his quadruple-platinum breakout anthem “First Day Out.” The latter stands out as a tentpole in the culture and the moment the world got to know Tee. He has ultimately emerged as a visionary through and through, and his vision unfolds like never before on Tee’s Coney Island.

Tee’s Coney Island also notably includes appearances by 21 Savage on “Loop Hole,” Chris Brown on “City of God,” and Cordae on “Tried and Tried Again.” 

Earlier this month, he teased the record with “Robbery 6,” following the likes of “Grizzley 2Tymes” [feat. Finnesse2Tymes], “Gorgeous Remix” [feat. Skilla Baby & City Girls], and “IDGAF” [feat. Chris Brown & Mariah the Scientist].

14. elijah woods ft. MacKenzie Porter – Last Girl

Toronto-based, multi-platinum artist and producer elijah woods shares his new track, “last girl (ft. MacKenzie Porter),” out on all streaming platforms today.

“last girl” was originally released as part of wood’s bright orange everglow EP earlier this year. For the duet version, woods tapped rising singer-songwriter MacKenzie Porter to add her sweet country touch to the love song. It’s a truly stunning cross-genre love song that will appeal to both their audiences and beyond. 

woods elaborates on how the collaboration came together: “As soon as I heard MacKenzie’s vocals I knew she would be perfect for ‘last girl.’ It was written with a blend of easy listening pop and country undertones. The song lends itself perfectly to a duet, and I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out!”

“I’m such a fan of Elijah’s music and when he brought me this song, I knew I had to be a part of it,” MacKenzie adds. “It’s the perfect mix of honest country lyricism and dreamy-pop. I’m so excited to collaborate with another incredible Canadian artist.”

Listen to “last girl (ft. MacKenzie Porter)” on all streaming platforms:
https://elijahwoods.lnk.to/lastgirl

15. Ne-Yo ft. Fabolous – Link Up (Remix)

Three-time, Grammy award-winning hitmaker NE-YO unveiled a new remix to his single “Link Up (feat. Fabolous),” which is currently available to stream on all platforms HERE via Motown Records/Compound Entertainment.

NE-YO and Fabolous also dropped a fresh visual to accompany the remix, directed by Azzie Scott, view HERE. In the black-and-white visual, the duo adds their own flair to the rejuvenated sample of Michael Wycoff’s 1980s R&B hit “Looking Up To You” produced by Hitmaka, Cardiak and Wu10.

The remix showcases Fabolous’ signature wordplay paired with NE-YO’s smooth vocals in what marks the latest iteration of their longstanding string of collaborations. The creative partnership between these two titans dates back to “She Got Her Own” with Jamie Foxx and Fabolous’s “Make Me Better” [feat. NE-YO]—which rose to #8 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Over the years, the dynamic duo have also collaborated on “Crazy Love” from NE-YO’s Libra album and “Should Be You” from the R&B hitmaker’s R.E.D. album. The remix also comes after NE-YO originally dropped “Link Up” in late-September as he finalized his nationwide “Champagne and Roses Tour” with Mario and special guest Pleasure P.

Earlier this year, NE-YO shined on a wide array of stages, including a headlining performance at The White House’s 4th of July celebration on the South Lawn. He also delivered his iconic hits at Michael Rubin’s renowned, Hamptons white party that brought together the biggest titans in business, entertainment, sports and music.

“Link Up” marks his first release since his eighth studio album, Self Explanatory, which included collaborations with Yung Bleu, Jeremih and Trippie Redd. His collaboration with Jeremih on “U 2 Luv” topped Billboard’s Adult R&B Airplay chart for three weeks.

In his career to date, NE-YO has a combined total of over 23 BILLION streams worldwide. He has won three GRAMMY awards and been honored with a total of 14 nominations. His first single, 2005’s “So Sick,” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and was certified quadruple Platinum. Since then, he has racked up a collection of hit singles – including “Sexy Love,” “Closer,” “Because of You,” “Miss Independent” and “Push Back” featuring Bebe Rexha and Stefflon Don.

16. Jeezy – I Might Forgive…But I Don't Forget

“I Might Forgive…But I Don’t Forget” is Jeezy’s first independent release through his independent label CTE New World, a powerful double album that delves into the topics and people that have shaped him both personally and professionally. Listen HERE.

“I Might Forgive… But I Don’t Forget,” is a powerful double album that delves into the topics and people that have shaped him both personally and professionally. “I Might Forgive…” includes production from ATL Jacob, Ricky Polo, Cubeatz, Hendrix & more, while “But I Don’t Forget” is produced entirely by The J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League. On both albums, Jeezy reflects on the trauma, obstacles, and personal growth he has experienced on his journey to stardom, success, and independence. Following the release of his New York Times bestselling memoir, “Adversity for Sale,” Jeezy embraced therapy as a vital tool for understanding his trauma and charting a path forward in life. Musically, Jeezy continues this powerful message to his devoted fans, encouraging them to persevere on their own journeys and strive to be the best versions of themselves while using his life and experience as the foundation for healing. With “I Might Forgive… But I Don’t Forget,” Jeezy vulnerably invites fans to join him on a transformative musical journey.

17. Benny the Butcher ft. Lil Wayne – Big Dog

Benny the Butcher – Grammy-nominated artist and founding member of Buffalo’s acclaimed independent rap collective Griselda Records –  releases his brand new single “Big Dog” viaDef Jam Recordings/Roc Nation/ Agency78. “Big Dog” – featuring Lil Wayne and produced by the Alchemist – is the prelude toEVERYBODY CAN’T GO, Benny’s forthcoming new album set to release early next year. 

“Big Dog” is the first new music from Benny the Butcher since Tana Talk 4 broke inside the Top 25 on the Billboard 200 album chart last year, and notably his first release for Def Jam Recordings.  Co-produced by L.A.-based the Alchemist, the mixtape spun off its opening track, “Johnny P’s Caddy” featuring J. Cole.  A #14 Hot Rap Songs hit, it was also Benny’s first single to break inside the Hot 100.

Benny The Butcherknew by the age of ten that he wanted to be involved with music. He self-released his mixtapes in the late 2000s as B.E.N.N.Y., including The Mayor’s Back and Chains Bond. In 2014, Benny’s cousin Westside Gunn founded Griselda Records, through which Benny, Conway and Westside Gunn would self-release their own projects. In 2016, Benny released his album titled My First Brick followed by the mixtape Butcher on Steroids with DJ Green Lantern in 2017. Later that year, Griselda Records signed a deal with Eminem’s Shady Records, a subsidiary of Interscope.

In November of 2018, Benny released his album Tana Talk 3, produced by The Alchemist and Griselda associate Daringer, touting features from Westside Gunn, Conway and Royce da 5’9″. The album was critically acclaimed, garnering widespread attention. In August of 2019, it was announced that Benny signed a management deal with Roc Nation.

18. Zoe Wees – Therapy

Zoe Wees – who has amassed nearly three billion combined global streams since making her debut in 2020 with the RIAA Gold-certified, Top 20 Pop radio hit “Control” – releases her dynamic debut album, Therapy. Listen to Therapy HERE.

The record, which boasts a twenty-song tracklist, is a full-on, heart-and-soul account of Zoe who is armed with nothing but honesty as she re-tells life growing up with anxiety, health conditions, growing up in a single-parent home, and later dealing with everything the music industry and social media has to throw at her.  You may not have experienced anything she has had to deal with, but there is a connection most can find in her raw, human feelings. “My music is my therapy, a way to overcome my innermost fears and insecurities. Therapy is more than just an album for me; it accompanies my journey to discover and learn to love myself,” Zoe said about the album.

Leading the album will be the track, “Love Should Be Easy”, which is a heart-breaking ballad that talks about the unwillingness to let go of a relationship that has become toxic. The emotional lyrics are paired with a soft piano before building up a transition into an upbeat track while maintaining the heart-wrenching message. You can listen to “Love Should Be Easy” HERE. In addition, Zoe will be releasing the music video for “Lifeline”. You can watch “Lifeline” HERE. Shot documentary style, the music video captures Zoe Wees’s moments during her time in the United States in addition to her time recording her album over the last few years. The video contains footage from Johnny Neghei and Greg Kotler, who also shot Zoe’s Learning To Love Myself mini-documentary. It was also edited by Greg himself. 

19. Dave East & Vado – DeNiro & Pesci

2/3 of The Council (which includes Dave East, Lloyd Banks & Vado) have just released a new single, “Deniro & Pesci,” which serves as a prelude to Dave East and Vado’s forthcoming collaborative album which will be released in the first quarter of 2024. 

Vado just graced the third member (Lloyd Bansks) of The Council’s Halloween Havoc IV: The 72^nd HR, and was recently featured on Mary J. Blige’s new single “Still Believe In Love,” which was the #1 added song this week on R&B Radio.

“V and I have been locked in for the longest, that’s family, it’s only right we team and up do something for the town” Dave East asserts.  “2/3 of The Council are back with more heat, and just wait until we drop the album” Vado adds. 

Stream Dave East & Vado’s “Deniro & Pesci: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iddcZ9ldZ_s

20. Brandy – Christmas Party For Two

R&B icon Brandy releases her new holiday single “Christmas Party For Two.” via Motown Records. Soulful and sultry, the romantic yuletide anthem is just the thing to add a little extra spark to the festive season, ensuring some not-so-silent nights. It’s the lead single from Brandy’s highly anticipated holiday album Christmas with Brandy, which arrives November 10. Pre-order HERE. 

“You need someone to make you feel the way that I do,” legendary vocalist coos over guitar plucking and bluesy drumming. At the chorus, Brandy makes it clear exactly what she wants for Christmas this year. “Help me undress, oh yes,” the enduring hitmaker purrs. “I’ll be your present, just give me your presence — that’s all that I’m asking of you.” It’s safe to say the new anthem of the season has arrived.

With a new album on the way, Brandy will have plenty of material to choose from when she takes the stage at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 23 to help ring in the season. But the fun doesn’t end there. Brandy is starring in the upcoming Netflix original film Best. Christmas. Ever! alongside Heather Graham, which arrives November 16.

In Brandy’s capable hands, classic songs like “Jingle Bells” and “Deck the Halls” transform into deep, soulful grooves that will move audiences who have been waiting for a contemporary, fresh take. And “Christmas Party For You” isn’t the only original track on the album, which includes “Feels Different,” and “Christmas Gift,” which finds the R&B great having a blast with her daughter Sy’Rai. 

21. Joeboy – Only God Can Save Me

It’s only been five months since the release of his critically acclaimed sophomore album Body & Soul, which was championed by the likes of BET, UPROXX, The Native, Afropunk, and The Times, and helped him break past three billion total streams, but global music sensation and Nigerian pop star JOEBOY is not resting on his laurels, and is ready to go again, as he unveils an evocative new single titled ‘Only God Can Save Me’ set to be released on November 3. Alongside the new single, the award-winning musician is excited to announce the forthcoming release of his sophomore EP and second project of 2023 titled Body, Soul & Spirit, arriving on November 17 via emPawa Africa.

As the title suggests, Joeboy’s Body, Soul & Spirit EP is picking up exactly where he left off on his Body & Soul album, with the upcoming EP serving as the perfect antithesis to the recently released album. Feeding off the emotional undertones of the last song on the Body & Soul album, ‘Halle’, where he is troubled, unhappy, and looking to God and family for succour, Joeboy carries forward this introspection with the new EP’s lead single ‘Only God Can Save Me’. Produced by Debo.x, this heartfelt track is an embodiment of the age-old saying, “Let go and let God”. Over moody synths, dark piano arrangements, and looming drum patterns, Joeboy delves deep into the realization that humans are fallible and can often leave us disappointed. When those around him were nowhere to be found, Joeboy turned to a higher power for solace and guidance, emphasizing that ‘Only God Can Save Me’.

Originating from a place of raw vulnerability, ‘Only God Can Save Me’ paints a vivid picture of Joeboy’s revelations about the transient nature of human relationships and the undeniable essence of divine intervention. During a period that challenged his perspectives and beliefs, Joeboy captures the feeling of desolation that many experience, emphasizing that in moments of true despair, one might find solace only in the Divine. In its moody, yet poignant tone, ‘Only God Can Save Me’ opens the thematic tapestry of the Body, Soul & Spirit EP seamlessly. The solitude Joeboy experienced while crafting this song – just him, a mic, and a pen – adds a layer of authenticity, making it an evocative piece that resonates deeply with listeners. Through this single, Joeboy offers a window into his journey navigating an emotionally charged phase, standing as a cornerstone for the entire EP’s narrative.

Speaking about the inspiration behind ‘Only God Can Save Me’, Joeboy says, “The song came from a place of realization over a strange two-week period that had me questioning everything and everyone. I discovered a lot of negative things going on around me, and I started seeing people around me for who they truly were. I needed certain people to be there for me, but they disappeared on me, I truly felt alone, and it became obvious to me that human beings are not reliable, and most people are only there for you on the condition that they can gain something from you. I came to the realization that you are really and truly alone on this earth, and God is the only source of strength and succour. All we can do is cast all our worries on God, and he will handle it, hence the title ‘Only God Can Save Me’.”

22. Fetty Wap ft. Coi Leray – 1738

Turning the page on another chapter, two-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated diamond-certified rap star Fetty Wap returns with a brand new single entitled “1738” featuring Coi Leray out now via 300 Entertainment. Listen HERE. It heralds the arrival of his anxiously awaited full-length offering and first album since 2015, KING ZOO, coming Black Friday, November 24^th. Fetty has teased the impending arrival of his sophomore album for years now. Fittingly, he settled on a release date with sentimental value as November 18, 2023 was the anniversary of his most recent viral single “Sweet Yamz.”

Pre-order/Pre-save KING ZOO HERE.

Both Fetty and Coi notably hail from New Jersey, giving the record special significance as a hometown anthem. Together, they channel the Jersey Club sound with a propulsive beat and energetic vocals. Additionally, the album title reference his iconic and memorable “1738” tag, which has adorned the biggest hits in his growing catalog. On the track, bright keys set the tone for the track as a danceable beat kicks into high gear. Fetty’s instantly recognizable croon practically melts into the warm production as he flexes his expansive range. Meanwhile, multiplatinum star Coi Leray rolls through with a hypnotic vocal as she notices, “Baby, I see your eyes watching me.” They lock into a smooth and stunning back-and-forth anchored by sizzling interplay.

It provides the perfect precursor to KING ZOO. The album marks yet another evolution for Fetty. Given the length of time between full-length releases, he hoped to offer up the record as a gift to fans, feeding the culture with a bevy of bangers. Fittingly, the album artwork speaks to his coronation as hip-hop royalty with its Renaissance era depiction of a king.

Last year, Fetty Wap landed a viral holiday hit with “Sweet Yamz.” One Remix notably featured the legendary Charlie Wilson and GRAMMY® Award-winning Ronald Isley of The Isley Brothers. Another Remix featured multi-platinum selling, Grammy and Golden Globe nominated recording artist Wiz Khalifa.

23. Cade Hoppe – Just Look At The Moon

New York-based indie-pop artist Cade Hoppe returns with his new EP, ‘Just Look at the Moon,’ out today on all streaming platforms. 

From heartfelt love songs (“Labels,” “Only Human”) to existential reflections (“Moon,” “Fresh Start”), the 7-track EP demonstrates his remarkable range — vocally, sonically, and lyrically. “I managed to get much more existential with this project, for better or worse,” he says. “The more I give to music and the pursuit of it, the more detached from reality I become, and there’s a lot of that in here.”

The EP features a range of musical guests and collaborators, like Rob Moose (Sufjan Stevens, Phoebe Bridges, Taylor Swift), Harper James (Eighty Ninety, James Bay, Aaron Taos), Bobby Hawk (Taylor Swift, The 1975, Florence and the Machine), and Jesse Blum (Twenty One Pilots, MisterWives, Nas) that amplify the record’s richly textured sound. 

Following his 2021 EP ‘Tell Me How It’s Worth It’ and 2022 EP ‘Everything That’s Wrong With You,’ ‘Just Look at the Moon’ showcases Cade’s growing confidence as an artist, songwriter, and producer. In just a few short years, the 23-year-old has gone from writing songs in his bedroom to working alongside legendary musicians and producers. With his steadfast determination and undeniable talent, Cade Hoppe is one of indie-pop’s most exciting young stars.

Listen to ‘Just Look At The Moon’ on all streaming platforms:
https://ffm.to/jlatmcadehoppe

24. Smile High & The Main Squeeze ft. 6LACK & QUIN – Kinks

Today, Smile High, producer and keyboardist for internationally renowned funk/soul/rock band The Main Squeeze, shares new single “Kinks,” featuring R&B power couple 6LACK and QUIN. On the jazzy, carefree track, 6LACK & QUIN express that meaningful relationships require a thoughtful approach to conflict resolution.

“Kinks just echoes the idea of doing the necessary work to achieve satisfaction,” shares 6LACK, “and how you may think you’ve arrived, but that arriving is something that comes in every new phase of life.”

Adds QUIN: “You gotta work out the kinks if you wanna get to the love!”

The story of “Kinks” began on opposite sides of a fence in Los Angeles. After making the move from Chicago to LA as the pandemic began, Smile High (aka Ben “Smiley” Silverstein) and his Main Squeeze bandmates hunkered down in their shared residence, known as the Squeeze House, passing the time by returning to what they knew best; through jam sessions. To keep fans engaged without live shows, the band took to broadcasting these sessions on Instagram Live in their backyard.

“This backyard shared a fence with a neighbor that we wanted to be respectful of,” Smiley shares, “so I would always give them a heads up when we were filming and they were super nice about it. They always said they loved our music and we even heard them make music from their spot from time to time.”

The day before the Squeeze moved to a new house, Smiley went over to thank his neighbors for their cooperation, and he soon learned that 6LACK and QUIN had been occupying the house next door. After expressing a mutual appreciation for each other’s work, the three artists vowed to work on music together down the line. “Kinks” was the fulfillment of that promise; the beat was made at a jam session at 6LACK’s
studio and 6LACK and QUIN added their verses in the coming months.
6LACK and QUIN. 

The Vibetape is a joint effort between Smiley—who got his nickname from his “resting smile face”—and The Main Squeeze, who he’s played keys with for over a decade. Each track on The Vibetape was recorded in a series of fun, low-pressure jam sessions at the Squeeze House. The five-piece jam band specifically curated the atmosphere as a contrast to the excessive seriousness entrenched in LA’s music scene.

“I’ve always found the most joy in collaborating with others and combining what I do best with what other people do best, and just being pleasantly surprised with the end result,” Smiley explains. “That’s always been the essence of what I’ve been doing, and The Vibetape is truly the culmination of that.”

With over a dozen featured artists including Abhi the Nomad, Chuck Inglish of The Cool Kids, Felly, and Tiffany Gouché, The Vibetape is driven by collaboration and experimentation, a fusion of hip-hop, funk and R&B that is reminiscent of a dinner party with friends.

Since the beginning of the rollout of The Vibetape, Smile High has nearly tripled his Spotify monthly listeners, with lead single “Real” (ft. Tiffany Gouché & Abhi the Nomad) landing on key Spotify editorials “R&B Weekly” (1M likes) and “Soul Coffee” (755K likes) playlists.

“Kinks” is available at digital retailers here: https://smilehigh.ffm.to/kinks.

25. Cruza – Paranoia Pack

Maintaining incredible momentum by pushing the envelope, otherworldly band Cruza present their new four-track body of work, Paranoia Pack, out now via Def Jam Recordings. The band continues to artfully stretch boundaries as they fuse alternative, R&B, and the psychedelic into a living and breathing unique sonic patchwork. 
 
Among many highlights, a head-nodding bass groove murmurs beneath hi-hats and soulful vocal echoes on the single “Pulp Jam” [feat. Mamii]. The hypnotic hook drips like honey over a steady bounce. Whistling brightens up glitchy production on “Another Hit” [feat. Sailor Goon]. Eventually, the rhythm gives way to an intoxicating exhale, “We just take another hit,” punctuated by the swoon of a harp-style glimmer. Then, there’s “Metropolitics.”Sirens swell in the background and vocal loops resound through airy guitar and effervescent harmonies. Check out the full tracklisting below.
 
Cruza initially teased Paranoia Pack in early October with “Hypnotherapy.”The latter has already gathered over 188K Spotify streams in addition to 135K YouTube views on the official video. Additionally, the song landed plugs from The Hype Magazine and KCRW where it claimed a spot on Francesca Harding’s “Best New Music” playlist.
 
Paranoia Pack just paves the way for more music from the band coming very soon.

It picks up where they left off on 2022’s “Fantasy.” Beyond bubbling at DSPs with over 718K Spotify streams, it earned widespread acclaim. In addition to plugs from HITS Daily Double, Celeb Secrets, and more, Billboard touted it among “R&B/Hip-Hop Fresh Picks of the Week” and applauded, “’Fantasy’ sounds like a loopy dream, and somewhere between alternative indie music and traditional R&B, the band draws on the past and present to create an atmospheric lane of their own.” Meanwhile, OnesToWatch attested, “They’re on a completely different wavelength, interweaving through dimensions and melting minds.”
 
Cruza arrives as the outlier band the culture needs in 2023 and beyond.

26. LAVI$H – We Make Sense (Amapiano Version)

27. Toosii – Suffice

2x platinum hitmaker Toosii announces his upcoming project JADED which is set for release via South Coast Music Group/Capitol Records on November 17. Pre-save HERE. Alongside the project announce, Toosii releases the raw and emotional new single “Suffice.”  The song was produced by the trio of Yozo, C7actus, and Kevin Varol.

“I came in this world on my own, do you know how it feel to be alone?” the 23-year-old Syracuse native raps solemnly over tight percussion, tinkling piano keys and dreamy backing vocals. The deep introspection continues in the chorus. “I wrote our names on the mirror, hoping to see it clearer — that just won’t suffice. Mama say ya gotta hear her, mama I understand but people come and go — that’s just life.” Toosii’s ability to drop hard truths while also serving addictive melodies remains second to none. 

On “Suffice” Toosii says, “When we look at our reflection, we look inside ourselves. In this song, I feel like looking into the mirror is about trying to see your future — looking for signs that what you hope for will come true, but recognizing that there are some things you just can’t control.”

“Suffice” is Toosii’s first new single since dropping his debut album NAUJOUR in June. The 19-track release included the 21 Savage-assisted “Pull Up” and the 2x platinum-certified “Favorite Song,” which reached No. 1 at Rhythm & Urban radio and top 5 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart after the arrival of remixes featuring Khalid and Future. The track was nominated for an MTV VMA for Best R&B Song, Billboard Music Award for Top Rap Song, and two Soul Train Awards for Song Of The Year & The Ashford And Simpson Songwriter’s Award. “Favorite Song” also currently features in Boost Mobile’s Get After It fall campaign. It also landed a Toosii a slot in Variety’s prestigious Power of Young Hollywood issue and resulted in star-making performances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Good Morning America, and The Voice Season 23 Finale.

Toosii spent the summer promoting the hit album with a sold-out headline tour, which underlined his status as one of hip-hop’s most in-demand live acts. That point is driven home further by the rising star reuniting with Rod Wave as one of the opening acts on the Nostalgia Tour, which is hitting arenas across the country. See remaining tour dates below and purchase tickets HERE. 

Toosii’s 2023 victory lap is well deserved for an artist, who’s found acclaim doing things his way from day one. After releasing a stream of mixtapes between 2017 and 2019, Toosii solidified his emerging star status with his South Coast Music Group debut, Platinum Heart, which included fan favorites “Love Cycle” and “Red Lights.” Poetic Pain followed, which injected Toosii into the national consciousness and earned him a spot in the 2021 XXL Freshman class. From there, he kept up his momentum with efforts like Thank You for Believing and Pretty Girls Love Toosii, which combined his vocals with understated soundscapes. Released after the birth of his son, 2022’s Boys Don’t Cry saw Toosii reach even deeper into his emotions before launching into the mainstream with “Favorite Song” and NAUJOUR.

28. Anthony Brown & group therAPy – Affirmations

The Gospel music supergroup with over 700 million digital streams, Anthony Brown & group therAPy, have released their first full-length album in four years. Their sixth oeuvre, Affirmations (Key of A / Tyscot / FairTrade), is a dozen soul-stirring tracks that showcase the dynamic outfit’s polished grasp of contemporary gospel music with sly touches of Classical, Hip-Hop, Pop, Pentecostal, and even Celtic flavoring. The first radio single, “Speak Your Name,” an enthralling anthem of praise, rises to No. 4 on this week’s Billboard Gospel Airplay chart. Listening Link:  https://fts.lnk.to/Affirmation s

Affirmations is personal. “Some of the emotional, mental, financial supports that I’ve grown accustomed to seem to be more quiet than normal,” Brown confesses. “I believe there are seasons where God quiets the things that typically rescue us. There are Biblical examples where different people encouraged themselves. King David had to strengthen himself in the Lord. I wanted to do a project that spoke to that season for people who feel like right now they aren’t getting the support [they are used to receiving]. I wanted to remind them that you have all you need. Power of death and life is in your tongue, and you can speak and encourage yourself with the word of God. This project is a record full of things that you should speak over your own self every single day.” 

Brown’s longtime collaborator Justin Savage (Kirk Franklin, Israel Houghton), and keyboardists Darryl Woodson, and William McMillan, (Travis Greene, Tasha Cobbs Leonard) each co-produced various tracks with Brown for the project. The set is a mix of ballads and contemporary grooves anchored by the group’s exquisite classically trained voices. Gospel legend,  Kierra Sheard Kelly, squalls on the coda  of “Grace,”and Justin Savage’s pre-teen son Zach Savage, opens “Up Up Up” with a refrain from the Civil Rights anthem,  “This Little Light of Mine.” 

With Brown’s husky emcee tone, heartfelt lyrics, and the group’s classically trained vocals; it’s no surprise they are the most successful gospel group of the last decade with megahits such as “Trust in You,” “I Got That,” and “Blessings on Blessings.” Aside from their 700 million streams, there are eleven Billboard Top Ten singles and four No. 1 hits. The R.I.A.A. gold-certified track, “Worth,” spent 24 weeks at the apex of the Billboard Gospel Airplay chart in 2015. There are three GRAMMY award nominations, six Billboard Music Award nominations, and several ASCAP  Rhythm and Soul Music Awards. “I’m just grateful for all the support fans have given us over the years,” Brown adds. “They have affirmed us and that’s a tremendous feeling.”

“Speak Your Name” Music Video: https://youtu.be/Kjqnjlrv32U?si=FAWBS_uU80Yp7RkB

“Up Up Up” Music Video: https://youtu.be/w2XVjbYyTiI?si=_pfYSRXAw7sH14KT

29. Aasher – Betray Me

Just over a year since the release of his critically acclaimed debut album S.H.I.F.T, which has garnered over two million streams, and helped the fast-rising talent sell out an eight city US tour earlier this year, North Carolina rap artist, songwriter, and producer AASHER is back with a captivating new single titled ‘betray me’. Written by Aasher himself, and co-produced with Netherlands beatsmith Woodpecker, who has also worked with Young Thug, Lil Tjay, $NOT, and Flo Milli, among others, ‘betray me’ ushers in an exciting new musical universe for Aasher as the Charlotte native begins to tease towards his highly anticipated sophomore project, which is arriving early 2024.

Speaking about the inspiration behind ‘betray me’, Aasher says, “This record represents a sort of rebirth for me as a person and as an artist. ‘betray me’ deals with a first-hand experience of betrayal, and the anger it brews inside. The song shows the duality of my feelings of rage by the act of deception, and my deep sadness that’s been colonized through regret for trusting certain people. Instead of turning to my initial inclination towards vengeance, I found it better to express myself through a creative outlet. The betrayal was something that opened my eyes to the duplicity from those closest to me, but it also pushed me into exploring new soundscapes for this new era of my music – picture gangbanging on a Sunday.”

Recommended if you like the sounds of Kendrick Lamar or Kanye West, DC-based Charlotte native Aasher stands out for his exceptional storytelling and dynamic delivery. Starting his musical journey at the age of four and later diving deep into rap music, the 21-year-old rap riser burst onto the scene last year with his critically acclaimed debut album S.H.I.F.T. Released in collaboration with global indie label EMPIRE, the project saw Aasher catching the attention of revered hip-hop stables including Roc Nation, Dreamville, and TDE, while also garnering co-signs from Meek Mill, and comparisons with Jay-Z. As he readies for a highly anticipated new project in 2024, Aasher is excited to show fans and critics alike exactly why he is being tipped for hip-hop greatness, starting with his new single ‘betray me’.

30. Raedio – RAP SH!T: The Mixtape (From the Max Original Series, S2)

Few shows understand the inner workings of the hip-hop industry, and its surrounding media circus, better than RAP SH!T, the Max Original Series created by Issa Rae. Ahead of the premiere of RAP SH!T Season 2 next week, Raedio shares RAP SH!T: The Mixtape (Soundtrack from the Max Original Series, S2), a star-studded mixtape that provides the perfect audio accompaniment to the series, available everywhere via Raedio/Def Jam Recordings.

31. Nnena – A Woman's Mind

Cleveland-native songwriter, vocalist, and lyricist Nnena releases her debut album A WOMAN’S MIND via RCA Records. The album is a 16-track project that delves into the emotional processes of women, while educating men that a woman’s complexities does not mean that she is “difficult.” This project has various features from Childish Major to DRAM and comes out along with an official video for the track “ECSTASY”– click here to watch.

Nnena describing the meaning behind her debut albumA WOMAN’S MIND: “We think of love until something happens. But love has always been the reason. A woman’s mind is a cluster-fuck of emotions that men skip past. Most guys don’t care to be observant until things are close to ending. This album isn’t to bash men, but to make them aware of how complex we are – not difficult. There are so many sides to things. So, to the men, this is a guide…To women, I’ll be your voice.”

 The project will also include recently released tracks “DAYEDREAMING,” “PMTWGR” and “FUN”,  three songs that offer completely different emotional perspectives that are both confident and soulful with the use of witty rhymes. The single “DAYEDREAMING” samples the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. Nnena re-imagines the hit and offers a new modern soul twist with the help of producer Foster Foster. Nnena was featured on Insecure: Music from The HBO Original Series, Season 5 soundtrack with her memorable single “FUN,”which is currently the second highest streamed track on the album on Spotify. Nnena had her late-night television debut performing the track on The Late Show with James Corden – watch it here. 

Previously, Nnena’s released two other projects,  Bipolar AF and …Just Cause. In 2021, her debut EP Bipolar AF came out alongside her announcement of signing to RCA Records. To end 2021, Nnena released her second EP …Just Cause, which featured various artists such as Childish Major, DaVionne and WESTSIDE BOOGIE.

An incredible writer, lyricist, rapper, and vocalist, bursting with effusive energy and a massive personality, the Cleveland native, born Nnena Adigwe to Nigerian parents, credits some of her robust, descriptive storytelling impulses to her past screenwriting experience. Nnena began writing comedic sketches during college and that soon led to working on more full-fledged projects—the kinds of works that needed sound tracking. Rather than pay licensing fees, she tried her hand at making her own music.  Her music reflects her eclectic influences ranging from Otis Redding to Millie Jackson, from Queen Latifah to Miriam Makeba to Kendrick Lamar and especially “Lauryn Hill, she molded me the most,” along with other neo-soul genre artists Musiq Soulchild and Jill Scott, as well from Drake, J. Cole, to Tiwa Savage.

32. EmanuelDaProphet – Holy Steppin

Breakout rapper/songwriter EmanuelDaProphet makes his Tamla Records debut with two powerhouse singles and their accompanying videos: “Holy Steppin,” and “Ghetto Gospel” feat. Rich The Kid. The Michigan-bred rising star is the first artist to emerge from the much-buzzed-about partnership between the newly relaunched Tamla Records/Capitol Christian Music Group and Encouragement Music, backed by Quality Control and founded by longtime QC engineer/A&R Thomas “Tillie” Mann. Listen to “Holy Steppin” and “Ghetto Gospel” HERE; go HERE to watch the video for “Holy Steppin” and HERE for the “Ghetto Gospel” video.

Hailing from the small town of Jackson, EmanuelDaProphet approaches his music with an unstoppable passion for speaking the truth about the struggles that shaped him. Like many young people in his hometown, he grew up with few opportunities to build a life beyond gun violence, drugs, and dead ends. After being shot, he discovered a renewed sense of purpose and dedicated himself to showing others that there is a better way. Now at work on his debut album — featuring major stars like Lil Yachty, Quavo, and Rylo Rodriguez along with Rich The Kid — EmanuelDaProphet infuses everything he creates with a strong-minded message of inspiration and empowerment.

EmanuelDaProphet said, “It’s a real dream come true to partner with these teams, from Encouragement Music and QC, to the historic Tamla Records. It’s a lesson to never give up on anything you start, because one day your life can change in a blink of an eye.”

Both singles produced by Thomas “Tillie” Mann (Lil Baby, Lil Yachty, Drake, Migos), “Holy Steppin” and “Ghetto Gospel” make for a powerful introduction to EmanuelDaProphet’s music. On “Holy Steppin,” he brings his rapid-fire flow to a potent backdrop of piano-driven beats, sharing his story of how finding faith saved his life. Hard-hitting and hypnotic, “Ghetto Gospel” finds EmanuelDaProphet further reflecting on how Christianity transformed his entire existence, with Rich The Kid dropping in for his own heartfelt verse.

“I’m blessed to be part of such a powerhouse alliance,” said Thomas “Tillie Mann. “Pee & Coach taught me the game, and now it’s time to continue the QC legacy and dominate the charts with my TAMLA family. This partnership will redefine what positive music is to the mainstream masses. We will change the culture.”

“Tillie is one of the hardest-working guys I know,” said Quality Control Co-founder Kevin “Coach K” Lee. “He’s one of the greatest mix engineers out there, but he has an incredible ear for music on the A&R side. The moment he said that he wanted to start his own label, I told him that Pee and I have his back.”

Directed by TBA, the video for “Holy Steppin” adds some humor to EmanuelDaProphet’s storytelling as he plays the part of a fed-up driver for a food-delivery app. Meanwhile, the “Ghetto Gospel” video (directed by TJK+ and The Director Frazier) offers an up-close glimpse at his world, following EmanuelDaProphet through city streets, to the barber shop, and to the altar of a church where he’s joined by Rich The Kid.

With his commitment to making faith-formed and culture-forward music, EmanuelDaProphet is an ideal artist to usher in the new era of Tamla Records — a label first founded by music visionary Berry Gordy nearly 65 years ago before he changed its name to the now-iconic Motown Records. With its past roster including legends like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, Tamla Records relaunched earlier this year by Capitol Music Group (CMG) and Capitol Christian Music Group (Capitol CMG) with a focus on positive hip-hop and R&B music. Overseen by EJ Gaines (SVP of Marketing for Capitol CMG, and Executive Director of Tamla Records and Motown Gospel), the label previously announced Mann and his label Encouragement Music as the first partner under the revived imprint.

Said EJ Gaines, “I couldn’t be more excited about Emanuel and our collaboration with Encouragement Music and QC. I’m hopeful that fans and creators of hip-hop, alike, will see this as a movement that shifts the genre in a positive direction.”

33. EmanuelDaProphet ft. Rich The Kid – Ghetto Gospel

34. Sevdaliza ft. Grimes – Nothing Lasts Forever

Iranian-Dutch polymath Sevdaliza has become one of our generation’s leading artistic voices through her revered sonic exploration and unrelenting pursuit to push boundaries. Today she shares her latest single “Nothing Lasts Forever” featuring Grimes. Coming together from a mutual experience dealing with the harsh expectations of a society that projects unrealistic expectations on female artists, the single sees Sevdaliza and Grimes reflect on the unrealistic expectation to live forever in a state of eternal youth and beauty, punctuated with a fusion of electronic, pop, trance and Dutch gabber – a music genre heavily define by Sevdaliza’s native city Rotterdam. The video is expected to drop next week exploring these topics, and lean into Sevdaliza’s penchant for engaging with future technologies and thought provoking visual stories.

Kicking off this month in Europe, Sevdaliza will embark on a small selection of special performances in European cities – 5th November at La Cigale in Paris, Here @ Outernet in London on the 14th and a special show as part of Festival Les Creatives in Geneva on the 15th.

This Summer, Sevdaliza announced her partnership with myvox to co-launch their first AI artist, Dahlia. An AI voice model created by the award-winning visionary artist and multihyphenate and also the world’s first femenoid robot, Sevdaliza introduced Dahlia last year via the video for “OH MY GOD”. Proving to be her most dynamic work to date, the subsequent Raving Dahlia project was born out of Sevdaliza’s own precarious experience in the music industry and her entire life journey as a woman who has inevitably broken new ground on many fronts. A physical robot built over the last two years made of metals, hard plastics and silicones for the face, Dahlia was created to represent the perfect version of Sevdaliza, embodying the remnants of her own frustrations, pressures and the unmeasurable expectations put on female artists today. Reflecting these pressures sonically too, Sevdaliza’s most recent output including “Ride or Die” feat. Villano Antillano has seen her adapt and depart from her darker sounds and into a more global pop lane.

ABOUT “NOTHING LASTS FOREVER” FROM SEVDALIZA:

“Admiration and adoration turn into weapons when women challenge expectations. True liberation is breaking free from inner and outer expectations, a journey worth embracing despite the bruises. Yours truly, Sevdaliza”

35. T.I. ft. Kamo Mphela – Vacay

T.I. recently announced his final album, “Kill The King” not too long ago, after an illustrious 20 year music career.  In this whole process, T.I. realized how much music has been sitting in the vault, and wants to flood the world with these sounds.  To alleviate this, he is going to be releasing a prelude to “Kill The King”, by an additional album “Kiss The King”.  “VACAY” features popular South African artist Kamo Mphela.  Her recent single “Dalie” went Gold in just 6 days!

Speaking on “Kill The King”, T.I. shares, “This is merely a metaphor for killing one’s ego, and not figuratively getting killed.”  Recently celebrating 20 years of Trap Music, the sub-genre that T.I. created and popularized, T.I. brings the trap sound over amapiano, which producer Champuru dubs as Trapiano.  With production by Champuru, this single kicks off South Africa’s impending summer perfectly.  T.I. shares, “This single is about going on vacation with your closest friends, having the time of your lives, and creating memories.”

The music video is co-directed by Tip “T.I.” Harris himself, as well as Gifted Talents.  This video kicks off with a recent Breakfast Club interview, where Charlamagne and T.I. share insight on visiting a lot of the same islands during vacation.  From there hop on the pj with T.I. as he heads to the islands for an ultimate experience.  Stay tuned for more music coming off of “Kiss The King”!  

36. Lil Jairmy ft. ShotOff – Gasway Livin

Gaining major traction in 2023, “Gas God” and Houston native Lil Jairmy serves up a hard-hitting and hypnotic new single entitled “Gasway Livin” featuring ShotOff. It heralds his highly anticipated forthcoming mixtape, Professional Shit Talker, dropping very soon.

The “Gas God” puts the pedal to the metal on the track. He ignites a scorching and sizzling flow punctuated by his gravelly rasp. The gritty rhymes speed on a collision course with the irresistible chorus, “Everyday Gasway Livin.” For Jairmy, those words encompass a lifestyle of late nights, crazy parties, and nonstop hustle.

Regarding the single, Jairmy commented, “Gasway is our lifestyle. It’s fast-paced nightlife. There are a lot of clubs and studio nights. It comes with smoking, drinking, and making music. It’s a catchphrase I see everybody using now.”

“Gasway Livin” arrives on the heels of the fan favorite “Right Now” which gathered north of 800k YouTube views. At the top of the year, Jairmy hit the road with GRAMMY award winning artist Future on his “One Big Party” Tour. He joined an all-star lineup including G Herbo, Mariah The Scientist, Don Toliver, and Dess Dior.

In 2022, his mixtape GasGod 2 flexed an A-list roster of guests, including Future, Moneybagg Yo, EST Gee, and the late Lil Keed. Reacting with listeners immediately, the project generated 5 million streams. After independently generating a buzz for himself in Houston with his standout tracks such as “AntiSocial” in 2019 and “MisUnderstood” in 2020 — brick by brick Lil Jairmy has created a name for himself. Generating cosigns from the some of the buzzing names within the genre such as Lil Baby (who appeared on his Excuse My Absence mixtape in 2019 on “Chances Make Champions”) and collaborations with the likes of Rylo Rodriguez, BIG30, Blac Youngsta, 42 Dugg, and more Lil Jairmy has rightfully earned the title of “your favorite rapper’s favorite rapper”. Jairmy is transitioning from hometown hero to one of the hip-hop genre’s newest rising star.

37. Pressa – Minimum Wage

Emerging Canadian-Jamaican rapper Pressadrops his new single and official video “Minimum Wage.”  The video was directed by Corentin “Coco” Leroux in Los Angeles, CA. The track is about Pressa continuing to hustle every day for his lifestyle, never going back to minimum wage jobs.  

Earlier this summer, Pressa released his single and music video for “Unfollow Me”, which was directed by Jason B in Palm Springs, CA and is about the fast pace of the industry, Pressa’s continuous hustle and the fame/women that come with it. Recently, Pressa joined the Canadian leg of 50 Cent’s latest tour Get Rich or Die Tryin’.

“Unfollow Me” follows his feature on Bandokay’s 2023 single “The Jungle.”Prior to this, Pressa dropped his 2020 project Gardner Express, which got a deluxe version in 2021. The deluxe included the alternative version of hit song “Attachments” featuring Coi Leray and other artist features like Swae Lee, Sleepy Hallow, Sheff Gand more.

Check out “Minimum Wage”and stay tuned for more coming from Pressa soon.

38. K Camp – Young & Free

Acclaimed hip-hop artist K Camp delights fans with the release of his latest single, “Young and Free,” from his highly anticipated forthcoming album, “Float to London.” This single leads into Camp’s first full album release since parting ways with Interscope and going completely independent.

Building on the success of his 2, back to back, sold-out tours and the positive reception of his recent EP, “Spin The Block,” K Camp delivers a heartfelt ode to the complex emotions experienced by a young musician and hustler in relationships. “Young and Free” captures the essence of reminiscing about past moments with a lover while embracing the resulting freedom from the emotional burdens that often accompany significant others.

For this track, K Camp collaborates with his newly signed producer, Trappin N London, whose unique style enhances the song’s emotional resonance. “Young and Free” will serve as the lead single from K Camp’s forthcoming album, “Float to London,” which is entirely produced by Trappin N London. Fans can expect the album to make a significant impact when it drops in mid-December 2024.

K Camp’s musical journey has been marked by artistic growth and a relentless pursuit of creative independence. With “Float to London,” he aims to showcase his evolution as an artist and establish his place as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

Stay tuned for more updates on K Camp’s album release and upcoming projects. 

39. Ryan Trey – Streets Say You Miss Me

Singer-songwriter Ryan Trey (#JUSTAREGULARLABEL/Interscope Records) is ready to elevate his career with his album STREETS SAY YOU MISS ME. For his dazzling effort, Ryan adds another chapter of R&B excellence to his burgeoning career after captivating fans with his previous releases A 64 East Saga and August. With an array melodic earworms on display, courtesy of “FUCK TRYIN” and “NOBODY,” Ryan’s debut offering is a scinitaling journey of love and heartbreak. Joining him on the ride are No Cap, Vory, Mariah The Scientist and Chase Shakur. Listen HERE.

Last month, Ryan returned with his summer banger “30 FLOORS UP.” Directed by Talha Pervaiz, “30 FLOORS UP” finds Ryan singing about his sexual mastery and wanting to elevate things to higher heights with his partner. Whether he’s parked on the roof of a building with his lover or taking in some island sun, he lets his desires be known. “I just wanna f–k her in the balcony / 30 floors up with her heart still beating rapidly,” he sings on the guitar-tinged hook.  

“30 FLOORS UP” and “AIN’T EVEN FRIENDS” serve as Ryan’s return to the music scene after taking a slight hiatus following his fourth project, A 64 East Saga, released in 2021. Since then, Trey linked up with Detroit spitter Babyface Ray on the standalone track “Only Us” in 2022 and went toe-to-toe with labelmate Jordan Ward on “WHITE CROCS” a year later.

40. Skrilla – Booted

Philly-based rapper Skrilla released his newest single, “Boosted”, out today via Priority Records. You can listen to “Boosted” HERE. 

Serving as his first release under Priority Records, Skrilla addresses the people around him who have watched from afar and doubted his skills as an artist. Tired of being counted out and spoken down to, Skrilla uses his single, “Boosted” as a way to make a point. Throughout the song, Skrilla repeats the phrase, “I’m booted”, implying that he’s finally gotten started and he’s finally activated with his career. “Boosted” serves as the first single to his upcoming mixtape, Underworld, which will include other songs that will help listeners understand the dark but raw aura he brings to the music scene. 

Skrilla stems from Kensington which is located in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Throughout the struggles of growing up, Skrilla channels it within his music which has helped him develop his sound and artistry as he addresses it throughout his songs. The upcoming rapper has also been seen with the likes of PNB Rock and Lil Uzi Vert, adding credibility to his artistry as he rises. With more to come, Skrilla will be a timeless and unforgettable artist for the next generation of music to come.