New Music Roundup (July 15 - July 19)

1. SPINALL, Omah Lay & Tyla – One Call

Today, Nigerian producer/DJ, SPINALL’s dropped “One Call” ft. Tyla  and Omah Lay.

This record is the perfect song for anyone contemplating a summer romance or just chasing good vibes. “One Call” blends SPINALL’s signature Afrobeats and house music style along with beautiful vocals from Grammy winning artist, Tyla and Afrobeats singer-songwriter Omah Lay. 

Still to come, a music video accompanies the single as the three artists groove through picturesque landscapes of Portugal, showcasing stunning visuals that complement the song’s romantic and summery feel. Directed by longtime SPINALL collaborator UAX Prime, the video beautifully captures the essence of summer love and the vibrant energy of the track. 

2. Rayana Jay – GARDEN

Today, Bay Area R&B songstress Rayana Jay unveils her lush new single, “GARDEN,” available now on all digital streaming platforms via Empire. The R&B artist effortlessly blends velvety smooth melodies, introspective lyrics, and contemporary sounds, offering listeners a soulful experience that delves into themes of growth and renewal.

Rayana shared her inspiration behind the song: “I wanted to write a song that wasn’t just about intimacy and sex, I wanted to write about intention. This song illustrates what happens when we take love and pleasure into our own hands and tell someone “Hey, this is what I want.” I think GARDEN is about passion, vulnerability, and love as a form of worship.”

Close collaborator and producer WASEEL added, “As a producer, working with any artist on a personal project means being a conduit for their message and creativity. “Garden” is a song that encapsulates the essence of growth, intimacy, and the beauty of vulnerability. Working on this track, we aimed to create a soundscape that allows listeners to feel the lush, emotive journey that Rayana Jay brings to life through her lyrics and melodies.

“GARDEN” stamps Rayana Jay’s first release from her highly anticipated upcoming album, TEMPLE, which features Amaria, and Topaz Jones. This album is poised to be a significant moment in her career, showcasing her evolution as an artist and her ability to create deeply resonant music with a wide array of talented collaborators. The release follows her previous projects, including the EP Morning After and singles like “Breakfast in Bed” and “Love Me Like,” which have solidified her reputation as a rising star in R&B, earning her 2 million monthly listeners on Spotify.

3. Noga Erez ft. Dillom – AYAYAY

Today, alt-pop singer, rapper & multi-hyphenate Noga Erez debuts her brand new single and accompanying music video entitled “AYAYAY” featuring sensational Argentinian rapper Dillom, out via Neon Gold/Atlantic Records. The track marks the latest single off Erez’s highly-anticipated, third studio album THE VANDALIST out Friday, September 20. 

“AYAYAY” sees Erez and partner ROUSSO dabble in the world of reggaeton, layering her dynamic and wide-ranging vocals with lyrically packed bars, over a frenetic house beat. The sexy, tropical track emblemizes the romantic appeal of the “papí azucar” (“sugar daddy”) along with extravagant living from both the male (provided by Dillom through a brilliantly crafted verse) and female perspectives, the desire to maintain it, and the self-imposed expectation to chase it when a relationship doesn’t live up to standards. Directed by Erez & ROUSSO, the music video for the track, filmed almost entirely through a kaleidoscope lens DIY-style, is brimming with personality as Erez lives her best life.

THE VANDALIST is a satirical, yet confessional look at real and online life, the project arrives brimful of monster tunes, intricate production, wit, charm and attitude, representing a significant leap from her previous work, expanding her emotional range from sultry to savage, and demonstrating even greater ambition with quickfire lyrics, broadened vocal styles, and the elaborate backing crafted with partner and producer ORI ROUSSO. THE VANDALIST primes Noga for yet another evolution in her musical journey, which is set to resonate strongly with listeners everywhere.

Recently released singles include “PC People (feat. ROUSSO),” along with title track “Vandalist,” and “Come Back Home,” all of which are joined by official “Against The Machine (Live)” performance videos, streaming now at YouTube HERE.

Her recent album highlights also mark the latest in a dazzling string of singles from Erez, including “NAILS” and “Quiet,” the latter of which was created by Erez and ROUSSO exclusively for the opening credits to last summer’s Netflix action thriller, Heart of Stone, starring Gal Gadot, Jamie Dornan and Alia Bhatt. The explosive track was met by worldwide praise, with Stereogum hailing it as “marked by classic spy movie elements like surf-rock guitars and sweeping symphonic sounds.”

“Quiet” marked Erez’s first new music since her smash 2022 single, “NAILS,” which premiered on The Zane Lowe Show, followed by a blockbuster new spin featuring 4x GRAMMY® Award-winning superstar Missy Elliott, “NAILS (Feat. Missy Elliott).” The exclusive remix quickly earned critical applause from such outlets as Consequence of Sound, which declared it a “shredding new rendition.”

Noga Erez and ROUSSO first joined forces with 2017’s Off The Radar, earning worldwide acclaim and a fast-growing international fan following. 2021’s KIDS proved a natural evolution and even greater success as well as garnering a legion of famous fans that includes Billie Eilish, Marion Cotillard, Hayley Williams, Dove Cameron, Sofi Tukker, Gal Gadot, and Finneas, the latter of whom declared it “one of the best albums I’ve ever heard.”

KIDS spawned an array of innovative tracks – including “End of the Road” and “VIEWS (Feat. Reo Cragun & ROUSSO),” which were featured across a wide range of film, TV, and promotional campaigns including NBC’s Good Girls, Apple’s Dickinson, Netflix’s Sex/Life, Russian Doll, Resident Alien, How To Sell Drugs Online (Fast), Orange 5G, Vodafone, ESPN and more.

Erez has cemented her position as a boundary-pushing artist, consistently reinventing herself with each new project. Her live performances are known for their infectious energy and dynamic stage presence, captivating audiences and leaving a lasting impact on all who experience her music first-hand. From sold-out headline concerts (including a packed hometown show at Tel Aviv’s legendary Menora Arena) to show-stopping festival sets at Bonnaroo, Primavera Sound, Austin City Limits, Outside Lands, and Lollapalooza (to name only a few). Named among the rising stars selected to join YouTube Music’s global artist development program, Foundry, Erez marked the exhilarating KIDS with dramatic live performances on ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live! and NBC’s The Kelly Clarkson Show, sold-out headline shows at such legendary venues as New York City’s Bowery Ballroom and Los Angeles, CA’s El Rey Theatre, and an unforgettable pair of dates as special guest to Florence and the Machine at NYC’s world-famous Madison Square Garden. Now, with the arrival of THE VANDALIST, Noga Erez is poised to affirm her one-of-a-kind place among the innovative and formidable alt-pop artists of the modern era.

4. Heems – DAME

Himanshu ‘HEEMS’ Suri comes back around with his second single from his second album this year, VEENA LP, and each song couldn’t be more different than the next. “DAME” exudes bold self-assuredness with his signature playful rhymes, set against hypnotic and glitchy production. Throughout the track, he shares his hopes and aspirations for future relationships, keeping the tone light-hearted.

VEENA LP, will be released on August 23rd via his VEENA CO. label. The album, which is produced by Sid Vashi, includes previously released single, “MANTO,” featuring Vijay Iyer, a sonic exploration that digs deep into the bloody partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 with the same brutal honesty as the writer it’s named after. The song garnered acclaim for its bold, unfiltered lyricism, which The New York Times described as a “somber, pealing modal-jazz piece with its own diasporic heritage.”

VEENA LP is a confessional record confronting trauma across its many forms – generational, familial, and complex. “Inter and trans-generational trauma is something that is starting to be spoken about more in psychiatry, and many if not most Indian families have been impacted by partition in some way,” adds Sid Vashi, the producer of VEENA LP, who also holds a background in psychiatry. The LP follows Heems’ highly-acclaimed album LAFANDAR, which was released earlier this year and highlighted by Stereogum, HipHopDX, Pitchfork, Passion of the Weiss, and The FADER amongst others. 

Tethering VEENA LP together are voicemail skits from a who’s-who of India’s global creative community. No Doubt’s Tony Kanal, Bollywood director Zoya Akhtar, frequent collaborator Riz Ahmed, and more check in, voicing appreciation for their friend’s work and constant mentions of his health, hinting at the burden that very same work is placing on him. “Several of the voicemails are real,” Heems revealed. Moments like these are most revelatory on the project. We see how a group of artists sharing a cultural background encourage and support one another as a community. Only Heems, who is a dhewtie after all, could put together such an ensemble, where Arooj (Aftab), Avan (Jogia), and Ankur (Tiwary) stand side by side.

Pre-save/order VEENA LP and listen to “DAME” above. Say tuned for more HEEMS coming soon. 

5. Culture Jam ft. BIA, Lakeyah & Flau'jae – Can't Get Enough

Culture Jam Season 2 is here. The first-of-its-kind global lifestyle brand and collective returns with its first release of the year, the explosive new single “Can’t Get Enough” ft. BIA, Lakeyah & Flau’jae via ADA / Warner. The track celebrates the exhilarating spirit of sisterhood, female empowerment and the extraordinary world of sports spearheaded by female athletes. In a partnership between Culture Jam, the WNBA and ESPN, the track serves as the anthem track for the new season of the WNBA on ESPN and it was first previewed at the start of the WNBA season earlier this week to kick off the 2024 WNBA All-Star Weekend. The track features production from OG Parker (Migos, PARTYNEXTDOOR Katy Perry), Tee Romano (Quavo, BlocBoy JB), Lil Rich (Doja Cat, YG, City Girls), and Bass Charity (Justin Bieber, Bad Bunny, Bryson Tiller).

Culture Jam celebrates the union of sports, music, and community through collaborations with some of today’s most celebrated athletes and biggest music stars. “Can’t Get Enough” is the first single by Culture Jam in 2024, and kicks off the newest chapter and second season of the brand. The ‘Can’t Get Enough’ campaign features the track across ESPN platforms and is inclusive of comprehensive digital efforts.

Culture Jam was first launched in 2021 through the groundbreaking Culture Jam Vol. 1 compilation album with the inaugural athlete, Kawhi Leonard, in collaboration with the Culture Jam founder and music industry veteran, Eesean Bolden. The album featured some of today’s biggest music artists such as Lil Uzi Vert, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Rod Wave, Ty Dolla $ign, Wale, NLE Choppa, Yung Bleu, Gunna, Polo G, Capella Grey, and others. It received large critical acclaim from Rolling Stone, Complex, Hypebeast, The Fader, Entertainment Tonight, XXL and many more, and has amassed over 120 million global streams and counting.

More to come from Culture Jam very soon.

BIA’S QUOTE:

“Working with ESPN, The WNBA and Culture Jam on ‘Can’t Get Enough’ has been an incredible experience. It’s amazing to see how music and sports can come together to create something special. The timing, energy and passion of the WNBA All-Star Weekend are the perfect backdrop for this collaboration, and I’m honored to be a part of it with Lakeyah and Flau’jae,” said BIA.

LAKEYAH’S QUOTE:

“Being part of ‘Can’t Get Enough’ with BIA and Lakeyah has been amazing. This track is all about celebrating the strength and power of women in sports and music. It’s an honor to work with Culture Jam, the WNBA, and ESPN to bring this anthem to life. We’re bringing the energy, the passion, and the love for the game.”

CULTURE JAM FOUNDER EESEAN BOLDEN’S QUOTE: 

“We’re thrilled to be collaborating with ESPN and the WNBA for a truly one of a kind moment that only amplifies the Culture Jam mission to authentically merge the larger than life worlds of music and sports,” Bolden said. “We’re elated that this special moment in time is being kicked off with a unique collaboration alongside the best players in the world and three extraordinary women BIA, Lakeyah and Flau’jae.”

ESPN’S RACHEL EPSTEIN’S QUOTE:

“The WNBA is setting all-time highs in attendance and viewership right now, and we want to continue the momentum with an all-star campaign that sits at the powerful intersection of sports, music and culture. It celebrates and integrates the talents of the best players in the world and these amazing artists” said Rachel Epstein, Vice President of Women’s Sports and Audience Expansion Marketing at ESPN. 

6. AQT ft. KSA – Journey

Afro-Fusion artist AQT invites fans on a divine pilgrimage with the release of his latest single ‘Journey,’ featuring the legendary KSA. This soul-stirring track delves deep into themes of self-discovery and spiritual awakening.

Recorded in the heart of Lagos, ‘Journey’ is a vibrant fusion of traditional African rhythms and contemporary beats, produced masterfully by the talented Okizy. The music video, shot in captivating locations across Lagos, the Middle East, and the US, is set to elevate the song’s visual narrative to new heights under the direction of the visionary AOL.

AQT, signed under the prestigious Amanar Group/GF Universal label, showcases his Nigerian heritage while embodying the essence of a Diasporic artist, bridging cultures through music. With a quote that encapsulates the song’s essence, AQT shares, “This earthly sojourn is my divine pilgrimage, a sacred odyssey towards self-discovery and spiritual awakening.”

Stay tuned as AQT embarks on this musical journey, captivating audiences worldwide with his Afro-Fusion sound. Explore the depths of ‘Journey’ and experience the magic of AQT’s artistry.

7. Mark Clennon – You

Jamaican-born multi-disciplinary artist Mark Clennon is debuting his newest track and music video, ‘YOU,‘ a captivating Jamaican pop piece with strong reggae and dancehall influences, alongside folk and R&B experimentation. Releasing July 18th, the evocative track explores the complex emotions of a tumultuous breakup, highlighting Clennon‘s unique genre fusion and personal storytelling. Directed by Clennon and longtime collaborator M.H. Murray, the music video portrays two men in Kingston, Jamaica, as they come to terms with the end of their passionate and complicated relationship.

On the singe, Clennon shares, “I wrote this song over 10 years ago for my first record and when I signed my first record deal I took all my music down to start from scratch – including this song – but in the back of my mind I knew I loved this song too much to keep it hidden. When I began writing my forthcoming record, I knew I had to include this song so I updated the production to fit my current style and changed a few lyrics and I’m so proud of how it turned out.” 

He adds “‘YOU’ captures the balance I’ve tried to strike in my career between representing my culture authentically while also making music for everyone. I wrote this song so long ago that I don’t even remember who I wrote it about but wherever he is, I hope he’s happy.“

‘YOU’ was brought to life at Raven Tape Studios in Toronto, Ontario. Written and produced by Clennon, the track features his own performances on piano, guitar, recorder, flute, drums, and saxophone. Expertly mixed by Alex Gamble and mastered by Kristian Montano, the vibrant, multi-layered composition showcases Clennon’s distinctive style.

Filmed in Kingston and Portmore, Jamaica, the music video opens with a shot of Clennon sitting in a car, bathed in crimson hues. A mysterious figure is barely visible in the corner of the frame. The story then flashes back to their home, exploring their complex dynamic. As Clennon leads with expressive moves, the visuals oscillate between the intimate setting of the bedroom and the freedom of the beach, capturing the tug-of-war of the artist’s desires. The video explores the story of a future of Jamaica visited by otherworldly beings on a mission to teach love, kindness, and tolerance.

This video presents a striking visual narrative with Dmitry Lopatin as Director of Photography and produced by Mark Clennon Universe and Black Elephant Productions. It follows the visionary’s groundbreaking song ‘Kingston,’ which made history in 2022 as the first Jamaican video to depict an onscreen romance between two men.

With ‘YOU,‘ Clennon solidifies himself as an auteur to watch, showcasing his signature creativity and style that pulse through both the track and its accompanying video. Drawing audiences into its contemplative embrace, this project positions him for undeniably exciting endeavors ahead.

8. G Herbo & Skilla Baby – Shoot

9. Alessia Cara – Dead Man

Making a momentous return, GRAMMY® Award-winning history-making superstar Alessia Cara is back with a brand-new single and video for “Dead Man” out now via Def Jam Recordings. It notably marks her first release since 2022 and kicks off what promises to be her biggest and boldest chapter yet. Listen HERE.
 
She steps into this era with clear confidence and charisma. Written by Alessia Cara and produced/written by Mike Elizondo, the upbeat track tells the tale of a once loving relationship gone cold and revolves around a jazz-y drumbeat, head-nodding bassline, and boisterous piano melody. Her signature smoky delivery practically hovers above rambunctious horns as she wonders, “If you really care, then why am I feeling you slip right through my hands? If you’re really there, why can I walk right through you? Talking to a dead man.”
 
Speaking on the song, Alessia says, “The song is about a relationship that has come to an end and is like the last final grasp of trying to hold onto what is left of this relationship. Basically, looking at the other person and metaphorically shaking them and saying ‘I am really trying my best to hold here, but if you don’t want to be held onto then there’s nothing left of this’. I feel like I am talking to a dead man.”
 
The video, directed by George Gallardo Kattah, unfolds as a surreal David Lynch-style fever dream. Among many entrancing vignettes, Alessia undergoes a polygraph test administered by a ghostly headless suit. The clip intercuts this trippy exchange with tense close-ups, a silhouetted trumpet solo, and transfixing choreography. It amplifies her outlier spirit loud and clear.

Most importantly, it heralds the impending arrival of her anxiously awaited fourth full-length album coming very soon!
 
Thus far, Alessia Cara has generated billions of streams, earned dozens of gold and multiplatinum certifications around the world, and notably made history as “the first Canadian to win ‘Best New Artist’ at the GRAMMY® Awards.” At the same time, she has sold out tours on multiple continents and emerged as the rare force equally comfortable on a track with Logic and Khalid or Juanes, Bastille, Major Lazer, and The Warning.
 
It’s just the beginning though. Welcome to her next chapter!

10. Chike – Son of Chike

SON OF CHIKE marks the triumphant return of award-winning Nigerian pop and soul sensation CHIKE two years after his critically acclaimed sophomore album The Brother’s Keeper. Inspired by his family heritage, and his artistic evolution since his last album, the glorious 12-track opus sees Chike returning to his cultural roots, and celebrating his family name Osebuka. Symbolizing his identity as his father’s son, and an artist building on the legacy of his previous works, Son of Chike is a heartfelt celebration of what it means to be human, centred around the complexities of relationships and personal growth.

Written and composed by Chike, and produced by his longtime collaborator DeeYasso (Oxlade, Dave, Wande Coal), with guest appearances from Olamide, Qing Madi, Ladipoe, Amaeya, and the late Mohbad, Son of Chike is a powerful exploration of the human experience, which sees Chike taking listeners on a deeply relatable and emotionally resonant journey. With evocative storytelling, enchanting melodies, and rich soundscapes, the album explores identity, self-discovery, love, joy, heartbreak, resilience, family heritage, and the beauty of life, among many complex themes.

Driven by its celebratory chart-topping lead single, ‘Egwu’ featuring the late and loved Mohbad, which has already garnered over 250 million global streams, Son of Chike opens in defiant mood with the Ladipoe-assisted ‘Unto You’, which sees Chike emphasizing the importance of staying true to yourself. ‘Lifetime Love’ takes listeners on a journey through the complexities of romantic relationships, capturing the essence of enduring love and passion, while ‘Apple’ continues this theme of romance, as Chike portrays love as an essential part of life. ‘Ego Oyibo’ sees Chike reflecting on the beauty of cultural pride and personal connection, and he celebrates the beauty and strength of his heritage on ‘Mma (Beauty)’.

Elsewhere on ‘Someone’, Chike provides an introspective look at the pain of unfulfilled promises, and he offers a message of empowerment and moving on from a past relationship with ‘Your Loss’. ‘Not Your Daddy’ stands out with its assertive message of independence and self-worth, while ‘Balance Am’ tries to find harmony in life’s challenges. Closing out with the powerful anthem ‘Man Not God’ that calls for humility and gratitude, Son of Chike reveals Chike at his absolute best, offering a deeply resonant body of work that beautifully weaves his evocative storytelling with rich musical arrangements.

11. Elmiene – Live From 525

Today, Elmiene treats fans to a captivating new EP Live At 525 via Def Jam Recordings/Polydor Records. The intimate 9-track release captures a sun-soaked impromptu jam session that was broadcast via Instagram Live from a Los Angeles Airbnb earlier this summer.

Live At 525 sees the fast-ascending Oxford soul star play recent singles “Sweetness” and “Crystal Tears”, plus two new unreleased songs, alongside covers of a few personal favorites, including stripped back interpretations of songs by Cleo Sol, Prince, D’Angelo, Dijon and Midnight Star. His mesmerizing cover of Frank Ocean’s Channel Orange standout “Pink Matter” has been in demand from fans since he teased it on Instagram.
 
Having already announced a North American tour, and with European dates to follow – including another London headline show – Elmiene is on an unstoppable run of live dates this year. He recently supported SZA at BST Hyde Park, where he gave fans an early performance of forthcoming single “Light Work”.

Since his emergence, Elmiene has been known for his stunning live performances, and tickets remain in high demand. Earlier this year he sold out his eight-date world tour – including London’s Alexandra Palace.
 
Elmiene has continued to impress fans and tastemakers with a string of treasured releases, including the singles “Sweetness” and “Crystal Tears”, as well as a previous Live at RAK Studios EP, which revisited songs from last year’s breakthrough Marking My Time EP.  He made number 5 on the BBC Radio 1 Sound of 2024 poll, and was shortlisted as an artist to watch by the VEVO, MTV, Pandora Music, BBC 1Xtra and Ticketmaster.

12. Luhh Dyl – Cart Music

Emerging as the vanguard artist to watch this year, rising Detroit rapper Luhh Dyl unleashes his anxiously awaited new mixtape Cart Music out now via 300 Entertainment. The buzzing phenomenon also celebrates the arrival of the project with the music video for “Cheat Code.” Watch HERE.

About the mixtape, Luhh Dyl commented, “Cart Music began just one day me and my road manager were out in the grocery store and having fun making content for my song “Lalala.” It started doing well on TikTok, so I leaned in and stepped it up a notch. Cart Music started to become a style of rap for me that is fun, but I’m still talking my shit with my own flow. The beat selection is another huge part of the Cart Music sound. When selecting beats for Cart Music, I’m listening for a jazzy vibe that hits hard. Cart Music is for people to vibe to, feel wavy, and bob their damn head!”

He kickstarts a signature style without comparison across the seven-track body of work. The Motor City vanguard cruises through the production of “Ok” delivering a memorable hook, “Headphones on, it’s time to lock right in.” Then, there’s “ZooWee Mama.” Strings wash over the beat as his lyricism takes the spotlight with icy references, “My left wrist like Frozone.” The mixtape concludes with the raucous “Rugby.” Horns boom atop the drums as Dyl drops one last hard-hitting frenzy. He reassures, “I’ve been focused on my paper, ain’t worried about who real or not.” 

One of his most popular songs, “Go Missin” was the starting point kicking Cart Music in motion. The song was originally teased under the title ‘Carlee Russell’ via social media. Followed up by “Chef Boy,” where he is seen cruising through the supermarket in his cart in the music video.

Kicking off release week, we saw Luhh Dyl turn up with a knockout “TRSHD Performance” of Chef Boy, followed by his Off The Porch interview where he discusses the double meaning of Cart Music and more. Watch HERE.

13. Denzel Curry – King of the Mischievous South Vol. 2

Today, Denzel Curry releases his new project King of the Mischievous South Vol. 2, the official sequel to the project – and revisiting the sound – that helped launch his career. While the project marks a return to his roots, it also signals the arrival of a new era in Denzel’s career that sees him standing as a peer alongside the biggest names in the genre after more than a decade of critically-acclaimed releases.

The first installment of King Of The Mischievous South was performed from the perspective of his Raven Miyagi persona, a name bestowed upon him by Raider Klan founder SpaceGhostPurrp, the second volume finds Curry operating under his Big Ultra persona — an elevated version of Raven Miyagi that is braggadocious and revels in the success that Curry has seen over the last decade of his career. 

After announcing the project in June, Denzel has been making waves on social media with “HOT ONE” featuring A$AP Ferg and TiaCorine, as well as with his three-beat medley group performance featuring Ferg, Tia, Key Nyata, and PlayThatBoiZay with On The Radar. A couple of weeks later, Denzel debuted his second single, “BLACK FLAG FREESTYLE,” featuring That Mexican OT with a From The Block live performance. Then, most recently Denzel and PlayThatBoiZay premiered their “HOODLUMZ” verses live in London on BBC Radio 1’s “Rap Show.” Just a few days later, the full version featuring A$AP Rocky was officially released on all platforms. 

Curry has been aiming to create King Of The Mischievous South Vol. 2 for some time, though his earliest attempts to do so ultimately morphed into other projects, namely his 2016 album Imperial and 2020’s 13LOOD 1N + 13LOOD OUT. It wasn’t until he stopped overtly attempting to create Vol. 2 that its songs started to emerge naturally.

Given the project’s sound, which pays homage to the great musical heritages of the South — from Memphis to Houston and Curry’s own South Florida — its features include the region’s greats, both old and new, as well as others whose style is indebted to the South’s musical legacy. Fellow former Raider Klan member Key Nyata, Memphis stalwarts Juicy J and Project Pat, Texas’ Maxo Kream, That Mexican OT, and Mike Dimes, North Carolina’s TiaCorine, Atlanta’s 2 Chainz and Kenny Mason and South Florida’s Ski Mask The Slump God and PlayThatBoiZay, as well as A$AP Ferg and A$AP Rocky all make appearances across King Of The Mischievous South Vol. 2.

In celebration of the project’s release, Curry will host “Club Mischievous” with No Strings on Thursday night and a pop-up event at le PÈRE with Pigeons & Planes on Friday evening in New York City. 

Later this year, Denzel will hit the road on the Grey Day Tour along with some select festival dates – see the full list of upcoming shows below. Listen to King Of The Mischievous South Vol.2 2 above and stay tuned for more from Denzel 

14. Big Sean – Yes

GRAMMY®-nominated multi-platinum artist Big Sean unleashes new single “Yes” available now via Def Jam Recordings. Listen to the single HERE and watch its accompanying visualizer HERE that arrives in tandem with the announcement of his eagerly awaited sixth album, Better Me Than You, out August 9 and now available for pre-order.  Big Sean first announced the album on social media with the debut of the Better Me Than You trailer, setting the tone for the forthcoming album. Watch it HERE.
 
 “The 𝙋𝙍𝙀𝙎𝙎𝙐𝙍𝙀 of life (being a new Dad, being an artist that’s growing, being a human in development etc.) and embracing it all led me to a lot of 𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐘 on what i needed to 𝐅𝐎𝐂𝐔𝐒 on to find a piece of 𝑯𝑨𝑷𝑷𝑰𝑵𝑬𝑺𝑺,” shared Sean on X (formerly known as Twitter). “The past few years making this album have been a journey to say the least, but l’m just glad we finally here 🌍”

With new single “Yes”, Big Sean pulls no punches. Right out of the gate, a thumping bass line crawls through a funky guitar lead and simmering drums. Simultaneously, his laidback cadence slips into a verbal barrage punctuated by head-spinning rhymes delivered with unstoppable force.

Reminding everyone of his influential significance and undeniable legacy, Big Sean recently dropped a viral On The Radar freestyle in which he pays homage to fellow Detroit native Aaliyah, rapping over the 1996 classic “If Your Girl Only Knew.”
 
It lands in the wake of pummeling “Precision” which earned widespread acclaim. Rolling Stone hailed it as “confidence-boosting,” and XXL applauded how “Big Sean goes rapid-fire on his verses.” UPROXX put it best, “Big Sean makes a sure fire aim with ‘Precision’, his triumphant comeback single,” going on to proclaim, “Sean raps over an energetic beat, reminding us that while he’s been away for a minute, he’s not going anywhere anytime soon.”
 
Making headlines, he also teamed up with Eminem and BabyTron on the internet-breaking “Tobey” off The Death of Slim Shady album, sending shockwaves through the game.
 
Additionally, he unveiled a highly personal and revealing VLOG entitled “Clarity” threading together intimate footage culled from the sessions, tracing the creative journey up to this point. Reflecting on how far he’s come, he pulls back the curtain on what to expect from this season of Big Sean.
 
Sean celebrated the 10^th anniversary of his seminal DETROIT mixtape with an expanded version on all streaming services. Meanwhile, 2020’s gold-certified Detroit 2, exploded as Sean’s fifth consecutive #1 debut on the R&B/Hip-Hop Album Chart and garnered a nod at the 2021 GRAMMY® Awards in the category of Best Rap Performance for “Deep Reverence” [feat. Nipsey Hussle].
 
Get ready for Better Me Than You.

15. midwxst – BACK IN ACTION 4.0

midwxst releases his new mixtape BACK IN ACTION 4.0. The mixtape is the fourth installment in his BACK IN ACTION series, showcasing midwxst’s creative evolution as he delves into his passion for car culture while embodying a spirit for relentless progress and growing confidence. The culmination of this sound is vividly captured in the previously-released singles “E30”, “FIRE” featuring DC the Don, and “GUN SMOKE,” as the 21-year-old raps about feeling untouchable over a hard-hitting instrumental with booming 808s.

Speaking on the mixtape midwxst shares, “It’s a perfect mixture of loud 808s and confident lyrics that pay homage to the car culture and street racing scene. As a kid, I was obsessed with cars – – from building them on ROBLOX, to playing The Need for Speed video games, until the sun came up – – this obsession helped fuel my creative journey for this project. Similar to the spirit of racing itself – always pushing forward – BACK IN ACTION 4.0 will definitely make you want to put your foot on the gas and never let up, which I don’t plan to do any time soon.”

Last September, midwxst, born Edgar Sarratt III, released his debut album E3, which provided listeners a path forward through relationships, identity formation, and the internet. midwxst enlisted industry veterans and session musicians to soundtrack what he described as a “fairytale gone wrong,” serving as an intricate painting of love in all its forms and evolutions. 

16. JT – City Cinderella

Today, JT (Quality Control Music/Motown) unleashes her 16-track debut mixtape, City Cinderella, with features from Jeezy, DJ Khaled, CLIP & Stunna Girl. JT’s sheer versatility is on display, as she showcases her lyrical acrobatics on Mannie Fresh sampled “Servin” while exuding sex appeal on the R&B-leaning track “90’s Baby.” JT’s thunderous single “OKAY” resides on the mixtape along with the Jeezy-stamped remix, which features the two down South rappers trading hard-hitting verses. Drenched with swagger, JT’s commanding presence can be felt through the mixtape, as she’s primed and ready to take the mantel of being the best female rapper out. Fans will be able to see more of JT when she releases her newest visual, “90’s Baby,” which samples Joe’s “All The Things.” 

Listen to City Cinderella Mixtape HERE. Watch “90s Baby” HERE.

To supplement the release of City Cinderella, JT gave fans access to her climb to hip-hop’s upper echelon with The City Cinderella Documentary. From overcoming tough obstacles like her stint in jail and returning to uncertain circumstances to evolving into one of music’s best hitmakers, every layer of JT is unveiled in this heartfelt video. Screenings were held in New York and Miami earlier this week, and fans from those respective areas received early access to view the documentary. Avid fans were captivated by JT’s climb to success as she barreled her way into rap superstardom.

Earlier this week, JT covered Paper Magazine, where she spoke on releasing her first-ever solo mixtape and the recording process as a solo artist. Titled “Larger Than Life,” readers received a snapshot of the life of one of Miami’s biggest stars.

This summer, JT will also embark on her newest tour. Presented by AG Entertainment/Mammoth, The City Cinderella Tour begins Aug. 20 in Kansas City and JT will make notable stops in New York, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. Fans can purchase tickets HERE.

17. Childish Gambino – Bando Stone and The New World

Today, Childish Gambino released his sixth studio album ‘Bando Stone and The New World’ via RCA Records. Listen HERE. Ahead of its release, he rolled out new single “In The Night (feat. Jorja Smith & Amaarae),” self-produced in collaboration with Dahi (Kendrick Lamar, J.Cole) and Kurtis McKenzie (Doja Cat, Joji). The album notably serves as the final album under his Childish Gambino imprint. 

The 17-track LP kicks off with the Ammaarae co-penned “Hearts Are Meant To Fly,” a roaring glitchy and twisty electro hip-hop cut, before delving into the moody psych-fun single “Lithonia.” Written by Gambino, the single evolves into a full on operatic rock anthem. He then flexes his melodious vocals on the summer-time fine “Survive,” before the project flows into the ethereal lullabic and guitar-laden “Steps Beach” featuring the Grammy-winning recording artists Steve Lacy and Fousheé. The latter later rejoined him on the alt-punk pop “Running Around” before Gambino shifts to display his lyrical prowess in the Flo Milli-assisted “Talk My Shit.”

Abundant in an array of sounds exhibiting the plurality of Childish Gambino, “Dadvocate” highlights his reverence for blues, folk and even country; while cuts like “Got To Be” and “Real Love” blend electro pop, dance and rap, with “Yoshinoya,” boasting bold bar after bar. It’s heard again in the collaboration with Yeat, on “Cruisin’,” before wrapping with the Max Martin produced anthem “A Place Where Love Goes,” which melds the album’s sonic diversity all into one. 

Gambino started teasing the project earlier this summer, premiering the cinematic trailer for ‘Bando Stone and The New World’ at the 2024 BET Awards. Watch HERE. He also opened the ‘Lifetime Achievement Tribute’ for Usher with a show stopping performance of “U Don’t Have To Call.” Check out the performance HERE.

Childish Gambino is also set to take the global stage once again beginning this summer with The New World Tour produced by AEG Presents. The long-awaited U.S. leg kicks off on August 11 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, OK making 33 stops across North America before wrapping up in Chicago, IL at United Center on October 3. Gambino will then begin the European/UK and Australian/New Zealand legs of The New World Tour in Lyon, FR, on October 31 before concluding at RAC Arena in Perth, WA on February 11. WILLOW is confirmed as direct support for North America, and Amaarae is confirmed for Europe/UK as well as Australia and New Zealand. Tickets are available on thenewworldtour.com. 

18. Rob49 ft. Cardi B – On Dat Money

The hip-hop world is about to be set ablaze as rising star Rob49 joins forces with global superstar Cardi B for their highly anticipated single and video, “On Dat Money.” This spitfire record showcases the undeniable chemistry between the two artists, delivering a track that is sure to dominate the charts and playlists everywhere. Listen to “On Dat Money” HERE. Watch the “On Dat Money” video HERE.

“I’ve been grinding hard all summer, and teaming up with Cardi B on ‘On Dat Money’ is something I’m very excited about,” Rob49 states. “Her talent and energy is unmatched, and this record is going to prove I’m not stopping any time soon.” With “On Dat Money,” Rob49 and Cardi B deliver a track that not only pays homage to the distinct sound and styles of the South and East coast, but also pushes the boundaries of contemporary hip-hop bridging the gap between the duo’s fanbases.

Filmed in a New Jersey mansion Rob49 and Cardi B party it up in their accompanying video which includes dancers, poles, and wads of cash raining down on everyone. The video is directed by George Buford, Frederick Buford, and Directedbyfrankie. Watch HERE. 

Rob49 has been making waves throughout 2024, solidifying his status as the hottest new artist in the game. Fresh off his nearly sold-out debut “Vultures Eat The Most” tour with Skilla Baby, Rob49 continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic performances and undeniable talent. His recent triumph includes selling out the 15,000-capacity Smoothie King Center in his hometown of New Orleans for his Annual Vulture Island Experience show, featuring Sexyy Red, Moneybagg Yo, Hunxho, Fredo Bang, and more, a testament to his growing influence and fan base.

In addition to his tour success, Rob49 has been dropping hit after hit, including his most recent release, the “Homebody” (remix) featuring heavyweights Moneybagg Yo, Bossman Dlow, Skilla Baby, and a special cameo from Sexyy Red in the video. Each release further cements his place in the industry, earning him major support from fans and fellow rappers alike. Rob49’s New Orleans roots infuse a fresh energy into the nostalgic and beloved Cash Money era, positioning him as the next big star out of Louisiana, and this track is another step towards his major breakthrough.

For Rob49 media inquiries please contact:

Andrea Hamilton: Andrea@TheoryComm.com

Kevin Young: Kevin.Young@umusic.com

For Cardi B media inquiries please contact:

Ashley Kalmanowitz: Ashley.Kalmanowitz@atlanticrecords.com 

19. Fat Trel & Millyz – Airplane Mode

DMV titan Fat Trel (@FATTREL) goes on “Airplane Mode” with help from Beantown barsmith Millyz (@MILLYZ). Accompanied by a matching music video, the Kidd Slopes produced collaboration from the east coast emcees follows Trel’s previous releases “Right Or Wrong” featuring Kash Doll’s husband Tracy T and Sada Baby assisted single “Steppa.” Serving as the latest leak from his forthcoming album ‘Boosa’s Keeper,’ expected to be released towards the end of the Summer, the HD-clip finds the pair trading verses about everything from loyalty to downside of fame.

Fat Trel has nurtured and grown his organic storytelling ability with creative word play and pulverizing flow. Taking a raw  approach to music, some would say as graphic and grimy as the streets of DC, but equally memorable and captivating nonetheless. He holds no punches and tells each story with such relativity they appear verbatim, in a matter of fact nature, that illustrates he is genuinely home grown and not caught up in the idea of being from the streets. 

Martrel Reeves PKA Fat Trel was a child far more ambitious and cognizant of his surroundings than the norm. At age seven, he professed ambitions to be a rapper, while peers delivered the proverbial “I have a Dream” Speech about aspirations to be nurses, doctors, lawyers, and fire fighters. As peers sat excited by the endless possibilities of the future, Fat Trel sat perplexed by the harsh realities of DC; the place he called home. Fat Trel exited high school at age 15, caught up in the lure and necessity of street life; a road more traveled when the have-nots impose an immediate call to action. Unconvinced high school education would support his family or cultivate his ambitions, Fat Trel hit the ground running in pursuit of being an emcee and has not stopped running since.

Press play on the Nick Sheehan directed visual for “Airplane Mode” and stream the official audio on your DSP of choice. 

20. Kiely Connell – My Own Company

Today, Kiely Connell, Nashville-based, Rustbelt-born and raised singer-songwriter, released her sophomore album My Own Company, out now via Thirty Tigers. Her sophomore album, produced by Tucker Martine, is a gritty and generous display of heartbreakingly honest lyricism, powerhouse vocals, and a stunning deep-dive into recovering after heartbreak, staring down the barrel of depression, and coming out the other side, to choose oneself. 

On “Coming Up Empty,” the lead single, she grapples with feelings of unworthiness, feeling unlovable, but finding solace in support. Over twanging guitars, shimmering organs and buoyed by Connell’s full-bodied voice and detailed lyricism she sings “no one does the little things / like screaming punk songs outta key while holding hands and driving down the highway / I’m falling short / I’m coming up empty / I was sure nobody loved the way you loved me.”  

Kiely continues, “For the longest time I thought I was unlovable and on a bad day sometimes I still believe it. I wanted to write this song for the person who showed me that I can in fact be loved and taken care of the way I never thought was possible.”

My Own Company – produced by Tucker Martine (Roseanne Cash, Courtney Barnett, Madison Cunningham) with instrumental backing from bassist Nate Query (the Decembrists), drummer Andrew Borger (Tom Waits, Norah Jones) and long term musical companion and guitarist Drew Kohl – is a hard-to-ignore testament of honesty with heartland rock and a jagged, modern edge. 

She sings candidly and full of wisdom about the darker side of the human condition, reflecting on themes of loneliness and mental health. It’s a feat of storytelling – she painfully recalls the death of a friend by suicide when she was in high school on “Restless Bones”, the powerful rebuff of unwanted bar groping found in “Damn Hands, to her own struggles with depression, being alone during the holidays after her eight-year long relationship ended, rocking her foundation, narrated on “Anesthesia.” Ultimately – My Own Company is about loss and recovery, and reclaiming the relationship with yourself. 

In Connell’s own words, “It’s about a love that you work so hard on that doesn’t work out in the end, so you ultimately end up working on yourself. You learn that the most important relationship is the one you have with yourself.”

Connell continues, “Much like my literary heroes Gaiman, Baudelaire, Poe, & Sexton, I find beauty in the darker elements of the human experience.  In my mind the goths and the confessional poets had the right idea. Themes of loneliness, mental health, and journeying into the unknown spiritually and physically are all extremely relatable and I want to be the kind of artist who calls it like I see it. I want to make people feel less alone in their pain, or in knowing that it’s ok to not have all of the answers.” 

Connell attributes this to her upbringing in Hammond, Indiana – heart of the rustbelt in northwest Indiana, where deserted towns and looming factories were the backdrop of her childhood. She saw firsthand communities left behind by the system, and the strength it took to endure. This, coupled with her early interest in musical theater, form Connell’s unique point of view – soul of an artist, attitude of a Rustbelt queen. 

Connell’s debut album Calumet Queen (2021) – referring to the Calumet River on which she grew up – was praised by Saving Country Music as a “remarkable and auspicious debut that you can see initiating a strong musical legacy as it unfolds into the future.” Her follow-up My Own Company is bound to take Connell to the next level, with bigger and bolder production, in keeping her powerful voice, in every sense of the word. 

21. JESSIA – Okay With Every Part

Canadian pop singer & songwriter JESSIA presents her new EP, Okay With Every Part, and announces her first headline tour across North America. The Be Here Now tour begins on October 22nd in Los Angeles and includes stops in Vancouver, Toronto, New York, Montreal, and more. Tickets will be on sale on July 26th.

The tour announcement arrives alongside her independently released EP, Okay With Every Part. Wielding her sharp lyricism and powerhouse vocals, the 6-track project takes listeners on a journey of growth and change. 

JESSIA opens up about the new EP: “Losing a label and a relationship within the span of 3 months shook me. I felt shame, rejection, anger, frustration, but also freedom, adventure, passion, and resilience. As much as I didn’t want to, I had to learn to accept and move through these new obstacles. Each song on this project represents a pivotal moment in my journey to finding peace and confidence again. This EP represents me accepting the good and bad parts of life so that I can look back and say, I’m okay with every part.”

With over 375 million collective global streams, JUNO Award-winning pop songstress JESSIA has taken the music industry by storm, capturing the hearts of fans across the world with her raw talent, dazzling pop melodies, and heart-wrenching lyricism. She made her explosive introduction in 2021 with the viral single, “I’m not Pretty.” Racking up hundreds of millions streams and views, the single caught the attention of Grammy-nominated artist Bebe Rexha, who later joined JESSIA on the track remix. She kept the buzz going with the release of her debut EP, ‘How Are You?,’ which was met with widespread support from iHeart, SiriusXM, and Billboard. 

In 2023, JESSIA bravely transitioned to releasing music independently. Last year also saw JESSIA take her music on the road with an Asia tour supporting OneRepublic and a sold-out Canadian tour with Dean Lewis. With the release of her second EP, Okay With Every Part, as well as her forthcoming headline tour, JESSIA continues to prove that the sky’s the limit.

22. Franceau – IYKYK

Critically acclaimed rising rap star Franceau broke conventional molds and means with a unique rap flow developed because he was born without vocal cords. The inspirational story behind the music artist motivates him to make up for the lack of the crucial part of an artist by having the ability to cultivate good sounding tunes. 

His newest release ‘IYKYK’ combines solid beats, great song writing, and his distinct candence to procure a thoroughly enjoyable listen. Features include Rich J, and Mikey Polo. 

The Complex, Elevator, and Respect Mag co-signed emcee took a hiatus from

music due to personal issues but is back in great form. Franceau plans to drop more music as soon as possible so keep him on your radar. 

Listen to his latest on all DSPs. 

https://music.apple.com/us/album/iykyk-ep/1753763347

23. Marcilli – Lethal

Emerging as one of the most exciting and important new talents from Jamaica’s vibrant music scene, vocalist and songwriter Marcilli (they/them) has released their unfiltered hip-hop/reggae anthem, “Lethal.” Out now via Monom Records/The Orchard/Sony Music, the track is accompanied by an ominous and energetic video shot on Shortwood Road in Kingston, Jamaica.

Produced by Grammy®-winner Alexx Antaeus, this powerful track showcases Marcilli’s lyrical prowess and genre-blending style. “Lethal” kicks off with a trap/phonk rhythm infused with elements of drill music and transitions into reggae, making a bold statement with lines like “Never Trust a Pretty B with a Strap on…” This fierce and captivating track highlights Marcilli’s seamless merging of diverse musical influences. With inspiration drawing from artists such as Billie Eilish, Rihanna, Agust D, Doja Cat, and Megan Thee Stallion, Marcilli is not only musically innovative but also a trailblazer as one of the first openly queer Jamaican artists. In a country where being LGBTQ+ is still illegal, Marcilli’s openness and advocacy amplify the voices of Caribbean queer individuals, making them a vital newcomer in the music space.

 Reflecting on the release, Marcilli said, “Lethal is that b*tch. I wouldn’t mess with her. I hope ‘Lethal’ becomes the go-to song to remind people who they’re talking to. Being a voice for the LGBTQ+ community in the Caribbean is important to me. I want to advocate for rights and safety and inspire young queers to follow their dreams and be their authentic selves.”

Antaeus shared, “I really enjoyed working on ‘Lethal,’ incorporating elements of trap, phonk, and reggae. Working with Marcilli in the studio is always a pleasure; they’re punctual, prepared, and open to constructive criticism. As an ally to the queer community, I consider it my duty to maintain an inclusive attitude toward artists, engineers, and other creatives.”

Marcilli’s “Lethal” is set to make waves in the music industry, delivering a powerful message and unforgettable sound. Stay tuned for more from this boundary-pushing artist. 

24. KALEO – USA Today

GRAMMY-nominated Icelandic band KALEO is proud to share their new single “USA Today,” a powerful song reflecting on gun violence in America. Watch the lyric video HERE. Listen HERE.

The song was written in 2019 and produced by frontman JJ Julius Son, Shawn Everett (The Killers, Kacey Musgraves, Alabama Shakes), and Eddie Spear (Zach Bryan, Marcus King, Sierra Ferrell). It was released in the wake of the weekend’s tragic events where an innocent bystander was killed during the attempted assassination of Donald Trump. For the band, the track serves as a reflection on the recurring themes of mass shootings and overall gun violence that occur across America. KALEO will be donating a portion of the proceeds from “USA Today” to gun violence prevention organization Everytown and strongly urges its fans to join the movement. Visit https://www.everytown.org/ for more information on how to support the cause.

JJ Julius Son shared, “This is a snapshot of the gun-related atrocities we’ve witnessed over the past decade while living and touring in the States which affected us all deeply. After yet another act of senseless gun violence at the recent Pennsylvania rally, we felt compelled to speak out and release this song. We’re hopeful that this moment will change everything and we all will acknowledge the need to institute common sense gun safety laws in America. Our hearts go out to the family of the innocent victim that died this weekend, and to anyone who has been touched by such nonsensical violence here or around the globe.”

25. Porter Robinson – Kitsune Mansion Freestyle

Today, Grammy-nominated artist Porter Robinson released the fourth single, “Kitsune Maison Freestyle,” from his highly anticipated third studio album SMILE! 😀, releasing July 26th via MOM+POP.

“Kitsune Maison Freestyle” continues to unravel Porter’s complex relationship with celebrity and Internet culture, extending his commentary on fashion and trendsetting as he examines the bizarre balance between the pressures of social acceptance with his own desire for self-worth. Throughout the song, he toys with boasting his stylish confidence on lines like, “Your girl was staring at my bag, wouldn’t look good on her, so sad,” juxtaposed with personal and pain-filled notes, like his closing remarks expressing regret over a cosmetic procedure to replace his teeth. Porter’s latest single encompasses the duality of his artistry, honing the best aspects of his own bravado and humility while alluding to the vulnerable and honest songwriting illustrated throughout SMILE! 😀. 

“Kitsune Maison Freestyle” is a reflection of the sonic markers that have distinguished the previous singles “Cheerleader,” “Knock Yourself Out XD,” and “Russian Roulette”, meshing elements of hyperpop, alternative, pop punk, and indie styles that have earned praise from the likes of Pitchfork, Vulture, The Fader, Clash, NME, The Line Of Best Fit and more.

Ahead of the release on July 18, Porter Robinson took over Maison Kitsuné’s brick and mortar in Los Angeles with a surprise pop-up that saw him give away 100 pieces of his designer wardrobe worth approximately $50,000 to fans for free. More than a thousand fans lined the street on Sunset Boulevard, vying for pieces from Porter’s personal collection. On the collaboration, Porter Robinson says, “I’ve always loved Kitsuné and I feel that it’s an extremely underrated brand that’s primed for a nostalgic revival.” [Watch here.]

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 at retail stores.

Keep your eyes peeled at WWW.PORTERROBINSON.COM for all the latest information regarding Porter Robinson and SMILE! 😀.

26. Alice Phoebe Lou – The World Above

South Africa-born, Portugal-based singer-songwriter Alice Phoebe Lou today releases her first single since 2023’s critically acclaimed Shelter, “The World Above.” This release is in tandem with the news of her tour this Fall supporting Clairo.

Recorded in between Tropico Beauty in Los Angeles and Freedom Studio Infinity in Tokyo while on tour, “The World Above” is not only geographically global, but universal in meaning. A self-reflective metaphor about looking up from underwater, Alice’s hopeful lyrics gain confidence alongside celestial keys and cascading guitars that lift each other along the way. Joined by David Parry on guitar, Dekel Adin on bass and Ziv Yamin on drums and keys, Alice maintains her commitment to artistic independence on this Parry produced track — Stream.

“This song feels like a hand reaching down and pulling me up from the abyss, helping me rise to the surface after a difficult time,” shares Alice. “I wrote it in a moment of intense self-reflection as I began embracing who I am, loosening from the grips of addictions and feeling as though I am enough. It’s a celebration of self and acknowledgement of the paradox of our depths and darkness as well as our infinite lightness.”

Announced earlier this week, Alice and her band will spend late September to early November out on the road with Clairo. In thoughtfully selected, intimate settings, both artists will have the chance to show off the depth of their artistry in the format that communicates it best. At the end of the tour run, Alice will play a headline show of her own at New York’s Brooklyn Steel — see all dates here. 

27. Sueco – Attempted Lover

Today, platinum-certified singer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Sueco has released his highly anticipated sophomore album, Attempted Lover.

This is Sueco’s first independently released album showcasing his dynamic, experimental sound, which combines alternative rock, emo-rap, and punk elements. He channels the spirit of nineties punk through a 21st-century lens, tapping into the unpredictability of hyperpop, the catharsis of hardcore, and a whole lot of hip-hop finesse.

The album highlights his raw vocals, meant to be played at full volume through listeners’ speakers. He had a few singles off of the album released leading up to this including the stripped-back song “Mulholland Drive,” fast-paced anthem “Drama Queen.” His most recent single is the heavy alt-rock banger “Outta My Head,” which hit #1 on trending audio for Instagram reels, further showcasing fans’ anticipation for the album release.

“I put this album together after coming home from a year and a half of non-stop touring,” shares Sueco. “It was really nostalgic for me skating around the streets I grew up on, and I decided to set up a studio in the garage of my dad’s house where I started making music about 15 years ago. I looked through about 200 demos, piecing together some of the best songs I could find, and this album is what came out of it.”

Earlier this summer, Sueco announced his North American tour supporting the album, kicking off September 13 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Supporting him on this tour will be the newly formed rock band GXTP, fronted by hit producer Poo Bear.

They will make stops throughout North America, visiting major cities such as Los Angeles, Dallas, Denver, Chicago, Toronto, Boston, New York, and more before wrapping on November 2 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Tickets are available to purchase now on his website: https://www.sueco.com/

Sueco’s debut single, “Fast,” blew up in a big way during 2019. It captured #1 on TikTok, #1 on Spotify’s Viral 50 – Global, and #1 on the Viral 50 – US, reached gold status, and attracted Offset and A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie for its high-powered Official Remix. On the heels of his first full-length project MISCREANT, he teamed up with Ty Dolla $ign, Wiz Khalifa, and Lil Yachty for “Speed Of Life,” Papa Roach on “Swerve” [feat. FEVER 333 & Sueco], and Illenium on “Story Of My Life” [feat. Sueco & Trippie Redd].

Embracing his earliest influences, he has also worked with producers and cowriters such as John Feldmann [Machine Gun Kelly, Avril Lavigne, Jxdn, 5SOS] and Colin “DOC” Brittain [5SOS, Papa Roach]. He served up “PRIMADONA,” “SOS” [feat. Travis Barker], “Sober/Hungover” [feat. Arizona Zervas], and “Paralyzed.” After generating over 1.2 billion streams throughout his career so far and receiving praise from the likes of Rolling Stone, NYLON, Alternative Press, Billboard, and more, this is just the beginning for Sueco.

28. Domani – P.O. Box

29. Minz, Tekno & 255 – Diallo

Barely two months on from his chart-topping hit single ‘Wap’ featuring afrobeats legend Davido, which has amassed over five million plays online, and as he continues to tease out his forthcoming debut album BY ANY MINZ, afrofusion sensation MINZ is excited to unveil another massive collaboration from the highly anticipated album – this time with afrobeats royalty Tekno. Titled ‘DIALLO’, the infectious summer-ready anthem was crafted and recorded in Berlin with fast-rising German production trio 255, who have recently worked with the likes of Burna Boy, NSG, and Victony, among others.

Serving as an homage to his African heritage, ‘Diallo’ was inspired by the continent’s diverse cultures, which have intrigued Minz as he has been travelling across Africa performing and connecting with fans over the past year. The track sees Minz waxing lyrical to ‘Diallo’, who is personified as a beautiful black woman that has left the rising star lovestruck, embodying an abstract expression of his love for African culture. Driven by lush guitars, infectious drums, captivating melodies, and inspired songwriting, ‘Diallo’ reveals itself, according to Minz, as “one of the most beautiful songs I’ve ever written”.

Speaking further about the inspiration behind ‘Diallo’, Minz says, “this song is a feel-good summer anthem and a song of surrender and vulnerability. When I say, ‘take my money, take my life’, I mean I’m completely devoted to this love and adoration I have for ‘Diallo’. It’s inspired by my view on Africa and the beauty on the continent. The little I’ve seen from my travels has left me in awe of us as a people. This song means so much to me because I feel like this is the most connected that I’ve been to my roots as an African, and it created a rare moment of utter vulnerability in my discography”.

30. Brellaunte – Outside

Rising star Brellaunte is set to heat up the summer with her latest single, “Outside,” accompanied by a dynamic music video that pays homage to the beloved film “Woo.” Known for her unapologetic lyrics and captivating presence, Brellaunte delivers an anthem that celebrates liberation and self-expression.

“Outside” explores the modern culture of hookups and sneaky links, offering a bold narrative on
reclaiming sexual power and freedom. Brellaunte’s sultry vocals and infectious beat make “Outside” the
perfect track for summer playlists, inviting listeners to live life on their terms, whether single or navigating
complicated relationships.

The music video for “Outside” directed by Cass Ruffins and Julian Martinez is a playful and modern
tribute to the 1998 romantic comedy “Woo,” starring Jada Pinkett Smith and Tommy Davidson. In the
video, Brellaunte takes on the role of the spirited and unpredictable character, reminiscent of Pinkett
Smith’s portrayal in the film. Kelz is set on a blind date with Brellaunte, a nutty woman who spends most
of their date trying to loosen him up. Throughout their adventurous night, the duo finds themselves in a
series of hilarious and chaotic situations, ultimately leading to a genuine connection and unexpected
romance.

Brellaunte shares her excitement about the new release: “Creating ‘Outside’ was such a fun and liberating
experience. The song is all about embracing your freedom and living life to the fullest. Paying tribute to
‘Woo’ in the music video allowed us to blend nostalgia with a fresh, modern twist. I hope everyone enjoys
watching it as much as we enjoyed making it!”

“Outside” is available on all major streaming platforms.

31. thủy & CHUNG HA – hair down

thủy teams up with Korean pop-singer CHUNG HA for the remix of her single, “hair down” which is out now via Venice Music. You can listen to “hair down ft. CHUNG HA” HERE.

The remix came to be as thủy and CHUNG HA are both huge fans of each other’s music. “I’m such a big fan of thuy, and my fans know this because I’ve mentioned her several times! I absolutely love the tone of her voice,” CHUNG HA said,  “When I heard about the chance to collaborate on the ‘hair down’ remix, I was just ecstatic! This project came together really quickly, and getting to work with thủy to blend our voices has been such a joy. I can’t wait for everyone to hear the song and feel the same excitement we do about this track”.

thủy’s eagerness to have CHUNG HA on the remix was very apparent as she gushed about how the song came to be. “I’ve been such a fan of CHUNG HA, so when I learned that CHUNG HA was equally excited about hopping on the “hair down” remix, I immediately screamed! The way that it happened was just so organic and we’re both such fans of each other so it just felt right. Having her voice on the record gave it such a nice texture and I’m so excited for the fans to get to re-experience the song,” Thuy said about the collaboration. The collaboration gives a new life to the single and truly does embody the feeling of letting your hair down. 

32. UnoTime – What Time Is It?

Burgeoning rap star UnoTime returns with his second project of the year. Titled What Time Is It?, the 20-track LP includes special guest appearances from iTSOVii and KSR labelmate Tina (Hoodcelebrityy).

Stream here via KSR Group.

The new album arrives on the heels of Uno’s recent performance for On The Radar Radio’s viral freestyle series. It also includes previously released single, “Gas,” a head-nodding loosie that’s a perfect mixture of loud 808’s and confident lyrics. What Time Is It?, out now, follows on from April’s Luxurious Damage EP and continues Uno’s incredible run in 2024.

Widely considered an artist to keep on your radar, Uno shines on his newest body of work. Each song reveals a distinctive voice that’s never sounded more prepared for the moment. From his slick rhymes on the opening track “We Ya” to his patented sing-songy delivery throughout “Raindrops,” Uno explores every corner of his multi-layered sonic universe.

A nod to his constant evolution as an artist, Uno continues to make a name for himself and is showing no signs of slowing down. In an industry saturated with manufactured sounds, he stands out from the crowd with an arsenal of flows.

33. DETO BLACK & SadBoi – D-RIDE

Today, emerging Lagos-based rapper DETO BLACK released a new single “D-RIDE” featuring emerging Toronto rapper/singer SadBoi.  

“D-RIDE” continues a run of striking, seductive singles for DETO BLACK and SadBoi. The spicy young rappers deliver a catchy yet alluring flow with this latest track that’s the ultimate anthem for women who play by their own rules and stay true to themselves no matter what. The chorus echoes, “Can’t d-ride. Keep the real ones by my side. Can’t switch up, got too much pride.” 

LISTEN HERE

This single falls within SadBoi’s catalog of fiery features as she continues her ascent to global stardom. Leading up to her newly released EP “Bare Chat,” SadBoi joined forces with alt-pop artist/producer Lolo Zouaï for a stellar remix of her previously released single “Potential.” In June 2023, the Caribbean-infused track garnered over 1 million streams on Spotify and secured SadBoi a spot on the platform’s highly coveted Best Pop Songs of 2023 year-end playlist. Having recently supported Nia Archives on the “Up Ya Archives” tour and Ayra Starr on the “21: The World Tour” across North America last year, the powerhouse is poised to break out in the second half of this year.

34. EB Sarr – bitter escpae

Meet dynamic new artist EB Sarr (@ebsarr). Hailing from the vibrant streets of Harlem, New York, he’s truly a multifaceted creative that understands how to get deeply personal with his audience. He just released his debut single and short film for “bitter escape.” Out now, stream here.

“Bitter Escape” is a funky, upbeat track that showcases EB’s skills as an artist who doesn’t fit in one box. On the making of this track, EB revealed that “The song reflects a relentless chase and the ways we try to escape it.” He continues by adding that it’s a song that “Everyone can relate to” on their pursuit of love, success, or other goals,” and various types of coping mechanisms, both healthy and unhealthy, amidst the chaos.

EB’s authenticity shines through not only in his music but also in his artist name, which is simply his real name shortened. “EB being short for Ebrahima. It’s true, it’s authentic,” he affirms. “I aim to honor my parents’ legacy through my craft and ensure my family name resonates for generations.”

Describing his sound to first-time listeners, EB promises the unexpected with a touch of funk. “Though I’m inspired and a product of so many things, expect me to bring on the funk,” he asserts.

With influences ranging from Michael Jackson to The Weeknd, EB Sarr is poised to make a lasting mark on the music industry. “I want to be the best, I want to do my best, I want to make an impact, and I want to do it with joy,” he declares.

As for what’s next, EB hints at more music and ideas coming to life, promising a new and distinct sound from Harlem’s newest pop sensation. “Expect flowerland. Expect EB Sarr,” he teases.

In closing, EB leaves fans with a simple yet powerful message: “Welcome to flowerland.”

For more updates and to connect with EB Sarr, follow him on social media:

• Instagram: ebsarr

• Twitter: theebsarr

• TikTok: ebsarr

35. Kenny Muney ft. BEO Lil Kenny – Bodies & Bucks

Impressing with his slick, muscular, and fast-talking Memphis rap, Kenny Muney is a man for all seasons. Heating up for the summer time with the latest video from his 2024 album The Blue Seasons, the Paper Route Empire rapper unites with fellow Memphian BEO Lil Kenny for “Bodies & Bucks.” A lush Southern slapper, which producers Cutthroatbreezy & Phantom4real adorn with saxophones, organs and vibraphones, “Bodies & Bucks” finds the two Kennys trading verses, proving that there’s nothing they won’t do to secure a bag: “I got some hitters so thirsty, I think they’ll jump on a plane to get you,” asserts Kenny Muney. In the video, the two rappers kick back in the pool hall, as they shoot dice, pour Don Julio, and count their endless stacks of cash.

Traveling from winter to summer and back again with his new album, the Paper Route Empire artist recently shared his album The Blue $easons. The new project finds Kenny Muney showing all sides of himself: He rhymes with his signature smirk on hustle hard anthems like “Breezy” and “Paper Route,” his new collaboration with close friend Key Glock, but takes time to show his more sensitive side on songs like the romantic “Hate It There” and the reflective “Ion Feel That $hit.” The South Memphis native delivers the mission statement for the project on the Bandplay-produced opener “My $eason“: “I might just change my climate, change my mood, I’m tryna capture somethin’.” Featuring additional appearances from CEO Jizzle and BEO Lil Kenny, The Blue Seasons streams everywhere via Paper Route Empire.

The Blue $easons is the latest step in Kenny Muney’s mission to take over the game and live up to the legacy of his late mentor Young Dolph. Last year, Kenny shared Blue Muney (Deluxe), home to fiery singles like the guitar-driven “Top,” the soulful intro “Muney Prayer,” and the Hitkidd-produced “In A Rush,” and guest appearances from Key Glock, Money Man, and more.

Kenny Muney shows that he has the talent and determination to succeed in the Empire-building business. Stay tuned for more from Kenny Muney and Paper Route Empire this summer.

36. Forest Claudette – 2AM

Today, rising alt-R&B singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Forest Claudette releases the addictive new single “2AM.” Listen HERE via Warner Records. Boasting a deep groove and intimate storytelling, the track beautifully illustrates the up-and-comer’s wholly unique sound. “2AM” is the latest taste of Claudette’s forthcoming EP, & Stone Between, due August 23.

Beginning with an invitation to tag along for a drive, the track soon morphs into a love song. “You should come too, you could be my entertainment,” they croon over swaggering brass and guitar, “elevate me, cut through — it’s a lot of straight lines.” Claudette then steers us to the sugar-rush chorus: “2am, 2am, you and I are not just friends.” It turns out, the song is based on a warm memory. 

The new track comes just weeks after Claudette announced their & Stone Between North American headlining Tour and Australian dates supporting US sensation Omar Apollo. The tour kicks off September 11 in Atlanta, GA, at The Masquerade: Purgatory, and heads to several markets including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, and closes out the run on September 21 in San Francisco, CA at Popscene @ Brick & Mortar. See all tour dates below and head HERE for ticket sales.

“2AM” and recent single “Moonlight” mark the beginning of a new era following their their four-track EP Jupiter, which features tracks like “Kobe Beef” and “Big Wigs.” That project is thematically connected to & Stone Between, making for a broad, all-encompassing narrative. Prior to that, Claudette released a stunning cover of the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ classic track “Can’t Stop” as well as their acclaimed Everything Was Green EP. That celebrated release included singles such as “Mess Around” featuring EARTHGANG, “Motor in the Sand,” and “Two Years.”

37. Jay Fizzle – Who Is Grizzape

38. Lily Mckenzie – Careless

Primed for a breakthrough moment, U.K. singer, producer, and DJ Lily McKenzie serves up a soaring new single entitled “Careless” out now via Warner Records’ flagship dance label Major Recordings. Listen HERE. It notably sets the stage for the buzzing triple threat’s forthcoming Pressure EP, arriving on August 9th. Pre-order/Pre-save HERE.

On the track, an otherworldly synth loop pulsates over a hypnotic garage beat and dancefloor-ready drop. The verses practically teem with emotion as she urges, “Let’s not be careless.” At the same time, she showcases her distinct sonic vision and impressive range as a vocalist. 

She first teased the EP with the title track “Pressure.” The latter has continued to gain traction on streaming platforms in addition to landing on playlists such as Spotify’s “New Dance Revolution” and gained noteable nods from Capital Dance and BBC Radio1 Future Show. 

In other news, Lily recently ignited the stage at Glastonbury not once, but twice. She accompanied Eats Everything for a performance and handled DJ duties for UK dance icon Katy B. Perhaps most impressively, she did all of this while pregnant, proudly embracing impending motherhood with passion, poise, and power.

Lily has recently lent her voice to various collaborations. She teamed up with Eats Everything and Chris Lorenzo on “Ghosts,” gathering over 1 million streams and counting. Of the latter, We Rave You applauded how, “Lily’s vocals really lift the mood, and with this production, they have brought back a really old-school sound.”

It just paves the way for a whole lot more to come from Lily McKenzie.

For now, she’s applying the “Pressure”!

Born and raised in South London, Lily McKenzie has emerged as a vibrant force in electronic music. Channeling the spark of UK house and Garage into a sharp sound of her own, the singer, producer, and DJ continues to stir up buzz. Her notable collaborations range from Todd Edwards and Interplanetary Criminal to Jess Bays and DJ Q. At the same time, she has reeled in millions of streams and views with “Better Me” and “Lovers & Friends,” among others. Signing to Major Recordings, she’s on the verge of a breakthrough with her single Pressure EP and more to come.

39. Willy Cobb – Country Punkin'

Picking up steam as an artist to watch, Southern alt rocker Willy Cobb serves up a smoking and scorching new EP entitled Country Punkin’ out now via War Buddha / Warner Records. Listen to Country Punkin’ HERE. Check out the full tracklisting below.

The project continues to distinguish him as a sonic maverick armed with country grit, rock ‘n’ roll spirit, punk fire, and a psychedelic perspective all his own. Among many highlights, fuzzed-out guitar underlines shoegaze vocals on “Burnin’.” Emotion overflows from the climactic chorus, “But every other thing you said is burnin’ through my head.” Then, there’s “Daddy On Drugs.” Relaying a dark little tale, a loose riff snakes around the beat as he exhales, “Daddy on drugs, hate it to break it to you.” Cut from a different cloth, the five-track EP affirms Willy as a new kind of musical outlaw. 

He bulldozed the way for the project with “Sincerely FU.” Earlier this year, Willy Cobb lit up the introductory single “Cigarette Smell,” which garnered widespread critical acclaim. Rolling Stone touted it among “All the Songs You Need to Know This Week.” Plus, NOTION sat down with him for an in-depth interview and professed, “the single sees Willy Cobb at his best.”

Not to mention, Willy has recently shared the stage with Chris Shiflett of Foo Fighters and The Cadillac Three across North America and Europe.

40. sombr – perfume

Today, burgeoning singer, songwriter, and producer sombr captivates on his new single “perfume” out now via Warner Records – listen HERE.

On “perfume,” sombr turns up the volume all around. Palm-muted guitar crunches on the verses and wails beneath the hook as his emotionally charged vocals teem with emotion. On the heartbroken bridge, he hopes out loud, “Maybe we can find the time, a couple years down the line, I’ll be going mainstream, you’ll be on the small screen.” Channeling classic alternative with its punchy loud-soft dynamics sombr holds nothing back and amplifies a flood of feelings on the track. 

This year, sombr has steadily shared fan favorite singles. He has generated millions of streams across “savior,” “in your arms,” and “i’ll remember tonight,” all while in the midst of his North American tour making stops in New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Toronto and more. Tickets and more information can be found here.

On his live show, Atwood Magazine christened him “the rising indie prince of heartbreak,” and Off The Record Press raved, “Each song is sonically moving with his impeccable touch for composition, adding in soft notes of instruments when needed, such as piano and guitar.”

Surrounded by music since childhood, sombr has gleaned inspiration from his days at legendary public performing arts school LaGuardia High, a fascination with classical music, and countless nights writing and recording out of a bedroom studio in his childhood home in the Lower East Side of New York City. He notably introduced himself with a series of independent fan favorite singles before breakout track “Caroline” cracked 32 million-plus streams on Spotify alone.