New Music Roundup (March 31st

Source: Paras Griffin / Getty

New Music Released This Week (March 31st – April 4th):

1. Jazlyn Martin

Rising star Jazlyn Martin returns with “Easy,” a hauntingly beautiful follow-up to her debut EP Identity Crisis. Seamlessly blending soulful melodies with an alternative rhythm, Easy is a genre-bending journey through the bittersweet complexities of love—both its beauty and its unraveling.

With tender yet gut-wrenching lyricism, Jazlyn mourns a time when love felt effortless, only to now confront the weight of its transformation into something hard and unrecognizable. The song’s atmospheric instrumentation deepens the emotional tension, mirroring the push and pull of longing for a love that no longer exists.

“Your cuts used to taste so good, I didn’t mind the bleeding.”

“I remember you were easy to love, easy to run to—now we got nowhere to go.”

Through “Easy,” Jazlyn delivers an intimate, soul-baring performance, inviting listeners into her world of nostalgia, heartbreak, and raw vulnerability. Following the success of Identity Crisis, and “Have It Your Way,” this latest release further cements her as an artist unafraid to explore the depths of human emotion with honesty and authenticity.

2. Sy Ari Da Kid – The Last Shadow In The Shade (Deluxe Version)

3. Kali Uchis – Sunshine & Rain

GRAMMY-winning global recording artist Kali Uchis has revealed the official music video for “Sunshine & Rain,” the first single from widely anticipated fifth studio album, Sincerely,. Shot in Mexico City and directed by Zach Apo Tsang, the cinematic visual features Uchis cycling through characters, from Lead Anchor and Weather Girl to the cheekier Wendy Wave, Drizzle Lynn and beyond. Watch HERE.

“This record is about embracing a life of enjoyment despite the world or your circumstances…” says Uchis on the meaning behind the track, “an existential piece focusing on the vulnerability and romanticism of life.”

“Sunshine & Rain,” which was teased just last week and met with massive fan excitement, sets up a lush soundscape, which Uchis’ rich vocals coast over with ease. In the first verse, she unpacks the stabilizing effect of good love on her life. In the second, she wishes the same for the world – one she recently welcomed her first child to – vowing to be a source of peace for those that depend on her. “Through sunshine and rain, as seasons change, we all need somebody that makes the earth feel heavenly… baby I’ll be that somebody because you’re that someone to me.”

The new record follows appearances on a pair of freshly buzzing singles: d4vd’s “Crashing,” and JENNIE’s “Damn Right,” also featuring Childish Gambino. This past weekend, Kali Uchis was seen reuniting with JENNIE at the Billboard Women in Music Awards – presenting her with the award for Global Force.

4. ODUMODUBLVCK – The Machine Is Coming

Ahead of performing at Nigeria’s premier music awards, The Headies, where’s he’s nominated for a monumental eight awards, Abuja rap trailblazer ODUMODUBLVCK has unveiled his surprise mixtape, The Machine Is Coming, featuring 16 dynamic tracks enriched by guest appearances from Victony, Rondodasoa, Shallipopi, BOJ & more. Demonstrating his unmatched versatility and innovative flair, ODUMODUBLVCK once again elevates the rap and Afro-fusion landscape with compelling rhythms, standout lyrical narratives, and his signature Okporoko Rhythms.
Leading the surprise release is the deeply introspective “LEGOLAS”, a brooding guitar based rhythm, which sees ODUMODUBLVCK take listeners through the gory journey that brought him to the top of the Nigerian music pyramid.

In addition to this surprise release, ODUMODUBLVCK shared another exciting track on Friday, “Ramadan Kareem,” a vibrant collaboration featuring Tolibian and BOJ, showcasing his continued ability to blend diverse sounds into infectious hits.

ODUMODUBLVCK continues to solidify his prominence on the global stage. His recent hit single, “Pity This Boy,” featuring Vict0ny, captured the No. 1 spot on Nigeria’s Turntable Charts and debuted at both #2 on the UK Afrobeats Charts and #5 on Billboard’s Afrobeats charts. Further cementing his status as a forward-thinking artist, ODUMODUBLVCK has been spotlighted by Rolling Stone US as part of their esteemed “Future of Music” list for 2025. At the end of the April, he will perform at the prestigious Nigerian Headies Awards, where he notched a record-setting 8 nominations.

Recently, ODUMODUBLVCK also delivered an electrifying appearance on DJ AG’s freestyle platform, further highlighting his relentless creative output and charismatic presence.

5. Alex Isley – Ms. Goody Two Shoes

R&B songstress and fan favorite Alex Isley will release her new EP, When, on April 18 via Free Lunch Records / Warner Records. Ahead of the project, the GRAMMY-nominated recording artist unveils her latest earworm “Ms. Goody Two Shoes,” which playfully blurs the line between mysterious allure and a fearless attitude.

“Ms. Goody Two Shoes” finds Alex indulging in her sensual side. Underscored by soft, acoustic moments of desire, she blends swooning harmonies with expressive songwriting, embodying a new level of confidence for the ascendant R&B star. The song is a dreamy and romantic number that adds another eye-brow raising gem to Alex’s increasingly stacked discography.

“I ain’t pull those Good&Plenty lyrics out thin air / Come and feel my inspiration, way too good to share,” Alex croons over the intricately layered soundscape. Her velvety, jazz-kissed vocals sparkle against the reverberant piano riffs as she weaves through the composition like a conversation unfolding in real-time. Switching effortlessly from soul-tinged high notes to staccato rhymes, every line that Alex delivers feels as intimate as a closely guarded secret.

“Ms. Goody Two Shoes” arrives on the heels of “Hands,” Alex’s debut single under newly-minted imprint Free Lunch Records. The release was widely lauded by the likes of Billboard, BET, Okayplayer, Rated R&B and more. It also marked the first taste of her upcoming EP, providing a window into the singer-songwriter’s exceptional artistry.

When – due later this month – follows Alex’s joint album, I Left My Heart In Ladera (2023), with producer and musician Terrace Martin. The collaborative release earned Alex her first Billboard entry, debuting at No. 2 on the Contemporary Jazz Albums chart.

Since her self-produced debut, Love/Art Memoirs, Alex’s prestige has grown considerably. She has consistently delivered undeniable melodies that resonate with fans worldwide, proven repeatedly with solo releases and high-profile collaborations. Now, When marks the early stages of what’s shaping up to be a prolific run for an indelible voice in R&B – further cementing her status as a once-in-a-generation artist.

6. Jai'Len Josey – New Girl

Kickstarting another creative season, Atlanta singer/songwriter, musician, and Broadway star Jai’Len Josey returns with a brand new single entitled “New Girl” out now via Def Jam Recordings.It marks her first release in two years, and it heralds the arrival of her full-length debut album, Serial Romantic, executive produced by Tricky Stewart—out soon.

“New Girl” finds Jai’Len firing on all cylinders as both a vocalist and a writer. The track gives throwback R&B vibes with its buoyant groove and sultry sway. Her confidence and undeniable talent underscore the lusty hook as she gives in to, “feeling like a new girl.”

Regarding the single, she commented, “‘New Girl’ is about that cute feeling you get as a girl when you first start talking to a guy. It’s like, ‘I saw you. You saw me. What’s the next move?’ Musically, the track mixes R&B and UK garage. A lot of my experiences come from underground New York and the music I heard when I was on Broadway. I’m bending those ballroom pockets with R&B and creating a world of my own.”

The last time we heard from Jai’Len was when she dropped the acclaimed two-pack Conversations From A Payphone in 2023. Right out of the gate, Rated R&B featured her, and VIBE promised, “The Southern Delicacy singer isn’t here for the games when it comes to her romantic partner.” Meanwhile, YouKnowIGotSoul praised her “insane vocals and storytelling,” going on to assure, “If you haven’t heard the name Jai’Len Josey, we are sure you’ll be hearing it everywhere soon.”

7. Trousdale – Secondhand Smoke

Los Angeles harmonic trio Trousdale today surprise fans with one more single ahead of their new album with the downtempo and stirring “Secondhand Smoke.” With the release of Growing Pains just days away (April 11) the group decided to showcase the depths of how rousing their singing can be when they come together over a lightly strummed guitar and fan the flames to the heights of emotion — Stream.

“‘Secondhand Smoke’ is a song that dives into the emotional weight of being in an abusive relationship and the devastating push-and-pull it creates,” shared Quinn D’Andrea. “For us, this song is about loving someone who is battling their own destructive traits—traits that are slowly harming not just them, but also you.”

“The metaphor of secondhand smoke reflects how their pain and actions seep into your life, leaving you as collateral damage. It’s a song about wrestling with the impossible decision to leave someone you love in order to save yourself, even though it feels like abandonment. Ultimately, it’s about facing the hard truth that you can’t save someone who won’t save themselves—and the courage it takes to walk away from the fire before it consumes you both.”

Trousdale’s upcoming second LP was primarily recorded live in the room and co-produced by the band and John Mark Nelson, with co-writing talent lent to them from Mags Duval and Lawrence Rothman. The trio utilized a live rhythm section on this record, resulting in a more cohesive and tighter sound than they’ve ever had before. As good as Trousdale sounds when they lean into their gold-hued pop, the group work their country flair into the material more masterfully than ever before. Across 12 remarkable and relatable tracks, Growing Pains points a finger at the weight of life and offers a light at the end of the tunnel.

Beginning in a few short weeks, Trousdale will set out on their headline tour of both North America and Europe. And beginning in September, Trousdale will once again join their friends in Lake Street Dive for six East Coast shows. See all tour dates here.

8. Duckwrth – All American F-ckBoy

Today, genre-defying artist Duckwrth unveils his highly anticipated third studio album, All American F⭐️ckBoy — an offering that lays his truth bare like never before, while cementing his place as one of the most dynamic artists of his generation. With narration by LaKeith Stanfield (Atlanta, Get Out, Judas and the Black Messiah), Tia Nomore (Earth Mama), Lou Loubell (Apple TV’s Foundation), All American F⭐️ckBoy unfolds like a film—raw, introspective, and unflinchingly honest.

Duckwrth takes listeners on a deeply personal journey of love, ego, and self-destruction, exposing the painful self-awareness that comes with growth. From the reckless thrill of juggling love interests in chapter 1* to the weight of generational trauma in chapter 3*, he confronts his toxic patterns, fear of commitment, and the ghosts of his past that continue to haunt his relationships. Tracks like “Toxic Romantic” and “Fell Off the Earth” ft Tommy Newport revel in escapism and impulse, while “June 1st” and “Permanent Vacation” force him to confront the cycles of infidelity, abandonment, and self-sabotage that have shaped him—and that he still wrestles with today. At the end of “Hurricane J.I.M.”, LaKeith’s narration signals a shift—not toward redemption, but toward a raw moment of reckoning. There’s no clean break, no grand resolution—just the messy, necessary work of breaking patterns, confronting demons, and deciding, in real time, whether change is truly possible.

Executive produced by BLK ODYSSY and Two Fresh (Teddy Swims), All American F⭐️ckBoy showcases Duckwrth’s unmatched ability to build immersive worlds around his music while seamlessly blending sonic elements—from alternative, rock, and pop to psych, electronic, hip-hop, and R&B.

“This album is the rawest, most honest reflection of who I was, and who I am. It’s the good, the bad, and all the messy stuff in between. With every track, I wanted to challenge myself and say the things I’ve been too scared to admit before. All American F

️ckBoy isn’t just music—it’s my story, my therapy, and hopefully a piece of me that connects with you,” says Duckwrth.

The album’s focus track, “I’m Really Changing” ft. Sherwyn, encapsulates this struggle with its tongue-in-cheek portrayal of the slow, imperfect process of growth. It’s a candid reflection of Duckwrth’s journey, acknowledging that change doesn’t happen overnight but is a continual, often messy evolution.

The release of All American F⭐️ckBoy arrives following his recent performance on A COLORS SHOW, where he debuted his emotionally charged, alt-punk single “Hurricane J.I.M.” (watch here), a track symbolizing acceptance amidst chaos. He also recently performed the heavy-hitting hip-hop track “PitBull” ft IDK for On The Radar (watch here).

With over 800M+ streams to his name, Duckwrth has built a loyal global following that spans music, fashion, film, and television. He made recent appearances on Apple Music’s The Estelle Show and New Rory & MAL, while earning accolades from BET, Rolling Stone, Notion (cover), Bello (cover), LA Weekly (cover) Wonderland (cover), CLASH, Galore, Esquire, The Needle Drop, A Book Of, PLAYBOY and more.

An international touring sensation, Duckwrth has been on hiatus from touring since 2022. He is now making a highly anticipated comeback with his first headline tour in over two years, with details to be announced soon.

All American F⭐️ckBoy is more than an album—it’s an intimate reflection on the complexities of love, identity, and the painful, yet essential process of self-exploration. Through unfiltered storytelling, Duckwrth unpacks male toxicity, ego, infidelity, and the cycles that shape us, ultimately leading to moments of self-realization and atonement. It’s a body of work that challenges listeners to confront their own patterns—one that Duckwrth hopes will spark meaningful conversations around vulnerability, growth, and the complexities of the human experience.

9. Ray Vaughn – DOLLAR menu

Top Dawg Entertainment stands firmly at the forefront of hip-hop and R&B, ushering in acts that have reimagined and laid the groundwork for the chart-topping music heard around the world today; and now their rising star and Tidal’s 2025 Artist to Watch, Ray Vaughn, is tapping into the same tutelage and track record for success as his TDE brethren for his long-awaited debut mixtape, The Good The Bad The Dollar Menu. Ray’s debut will drop April 18th, off the West Coast’s leading label and is available for pre-save HERE.

The announcement of the mixtape release date is accompanied by the new single “DOLLAR menu,” available everywhere HERE. The Tariq (2Chainz, TOOSII), OHGODDC, Vinnyforgood (Ye, Lecrae), Playoffs and Yalabear (Kalan.frfr, Jim Jones) produced cut opens up with the bar “Last night I had sleep for dinner,” which acts as the narrative throughline to the almost prelapsarian magnum opus the mixtape acts as for Ray, embodying the hunger and fierce grit the young MC possesses. One of the project’s core tenets, the track sets listeners up to enter a universe that finds the budding artist building melodic poetry to some of the much darker experiences of his humble beginnings.

The journey to mixtape kicked off with the widely critically acclaimed Pusha T collaboration, “Problems.” With his ability to kickstart our adrenaline with tracks like the NLE Choppa-assisted Rayo and Jack LoMastro produced “FNBM” to the more enigmatic “EAST CHATT” with labelmate Isaiah Rashad, Ray continued with his array of earworms, highlighting his evolving versatility. Throughout, he has remained consistent in his continuous onslaught of lyricism and content, revving his audiences up for his official debut. He reignited teasing of the mixtape earlier this year, with autobiographically-charged tracks, from the percussive “CEMETERY lanterns” to recent single “FLAT shasta” featuring the ethereal vocals of Ash Leone. Ray Vaughn’s laser focus on musical prominence has become crystal clear and he has the foundation in TDE to achieve it.

10. S.G. Goodman – Fire Sign

11. Salami Rose Joe Louis – Fill the void (ft. Omari Jazz) / A sauna sized pill

Salami Rose Joe Louis, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, gives listeners another preview of her new album Lorings, out 4/25 on Brainfeeder. The double single “Fill the void” feat. Omari Jazz / “A sauna sized pill” arrives today, joining previous singles “Arm fell asleep,” “Inside,” and “Dribs and drags” feat. Luke Titus & Flanafi.

The two tracks balance each other out, the raw existentialism of “Fill the void” foiled by the absurdity and fun present in “A sauna sized pill.” The synths on “Fill the void” are urgent and chilly, a reflection of the darkness Lindsay faces down. It is at once overwhelming and deeply moving. Meanwhile, using the actor Michael Caine as the lyrical basis, “A sauna..” begins with a bounce that gradually fades to a gentle roll forward, a lullaby for the cinephile.

Delightfully raw and heartfelt, Lorings is a collection of songs that find SRJL displaying her vulnerability through a playful and sonically explorative lens. “I was hoping to bypass the distillation process of overthinking outside perception,” she says. “Each song feels like a significant section of my personality has been carved out and put on a platter for public consumption, which is a devastating thought [haha].”

Olsen made Lorings almost entirely autonomously on her trusty Roland MV8800 workstation. For a couple of songs, SRJL invited a handful of exceptionally talented friends to collaborate: guitarist/producer Flanafi (with whom Olsen partnered for the collaborative album Sarah in 2024); Omari Jazz (Black Decelerant); Luke Titus and Sergio Machado Plim.

Elsewhere on Lorings, Olsen addresses themes of imposter syndrome, falling in love, heartbreak, the idea of family and parenthood, superficiality, her frustrations with the music industry (“I dunno the way… For I cannot play… The game”). She does revisit more familiar tropes too as exemplified by “Motorway (feat. Flanafi)”. “I feel like the world is being confronted with an enormous lack of humanity at the moment and it feels impossible to comprehend how people can be so cruel,” she declares.

Previously earning praise from the New York Times, Paste, Crack Mag, The Guardian, Bandcamp (“glowing bouquets of homespun electric jazz and soul”), and The FADER (“an electrified passage of fusion perfection”), Olsen conjures her utterly inimitable sound from her long term musical partner – the Roland MV8800 lovingly nicknamed FunFunFun. This iconic sampler and synthesizer has long been her principal instrument but in a twist to her modus operandi, for “Arm fell asleep” she made a pact with herself to not use a computer at any cost so the song was entirely composed, produced, arranged and mixed on the MV8800. “It was a hilariously involved process,” she says. “But I experienced a breakthrough that catalyzed a new chapter in my production journey and the end result I am proud of – a song that captures the quaintness and nostalgic quality of the MV8800, yet there is more intricacy and intention than I have been able to achieve in past MV8800 productions.”

Olsen, who’s sharpened her chops touring for the likes of Flying Lotus, TuneYards, and Toro y Moi among others, recently supported Sungazer on their North American tour. With her innovative production style and captivating live shows, Salami Rose Joe Louis continues to push the boundaries of alternative/electronic/jazz music.

12. PARTYOF2 – Poser

Today the LA-based duo PARTYOF2 shares their captivating new video for their track “Poser” hot on the heels of the release of their debut project, we owe you an explanation, via Def Jam Recordings. The project has been lauded by Apple Music’s Nadeska, Ebony, Teen Vogue, Clash Magazine, Uproxx, Pigeons & Planes and many more, cementing the duo as an essential and thrilling act in today’s music landscape.

Directed by the duo and Andrpw, the visual captures the essence of the duo – showcasing a potent balance of their “collective egos.” The video swirls contrasting emotions, the darkness and light, the earnestness and playfulness of both SWIM and Jadagrace that lines their larger-than- life, boundless sound. An exploration of the group’s shared sense of self and reflection of the insurmountable depth of human complexities through the use of striking VFX brings the powerful sentiment to life.

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

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

13. FattMack – Here to Stay

Rising Alabama rapper FattMack delivers on his promise of unfiltered energy and raw storytelling with the release of his new project, Here to Stay, out today via Great Day Records. Following the success of his electrifying singles “Kai Cenat” and “Hit It” featuring Lil Tony, the 19-year-old artist cements his place in hip-hop with a collection of tracks that showcase his signature blend of sharp lyricism, heavy-hitting production, and an undeniable presence that continues to captivate fans worldwide.

Alongside the project’s release, FattMack is dropping the official video for Here to Stay standout “Piss Me Off,” premiering tonight at 7 PM ET. Known for his laid-back yet impactful style, the visual is set to reflect the track’s bold, unfiltered vibe, offering fans a closer look at the genuine authenticity that defines his music

Here to Stay is a bold statement from FattMack—both a declaration of his artistry and a testament to his rapid rise in the game. Packed with high-energy anthems, the project reflects his journey from Mobile to the mainstream, blending street narratives with internet-era influences that make his sound uniquely his own. His breakout single “Kai Cenat,” inspired by the chaotic, viral nature of the streamer it’s named after, has already racked up massive streaming numbers, while “Hit It” has further fueled the excitement, pulling in over 700k first-week streams in the U.S.

With 3 million weekly streams and a total of 60.4 million global streams to date, FattMack’s momentum is undeniable. His previous project, TMK, amassed over 11.1 million streams, setting the stage for his continued rise. Now, with Here to Stay, he’s proving exactly that—he’s not just passing through the rap game, he’s here for the long haul.

As he gears up for a major performance at Roots Picnic in Philadelphia, FattMack remains locked in, delivering the high-energy music that has made him one of hip-hop’s most exciting new voices. With Here to Stay out now and the “Piss Me Off” video premiering tonight, fans are in for a nonstop ride of anthems, moments, and unfiltered energy.

14. Zacardi Cortez – Work It Out For Me

Multi award winning singer-songwriter-producer Zacardi Cortez has released his latest single, “WORK IT OUT FOR ME.” The smash single is globally available now on all streaming/download platforms, via the ZetRoc Ent/BlackSmoke Music label imprint.

“WORK IT OUT FOR ME” was written by Travis Malloy and produced by Morgan Turner. “The song was submitted to me by my good friend Travis Malloy. When I heard it, I immediately locked in on it… I don’t know when he first wrote it, but I felt like the song was written just for me. I don’t even feel like I do it justice; it’s just a BIG song,” shares Zacardi Cortez.

“Work It Out For Me” is the lead single from Zacardi’s anticipated forthcoming EP, “Ibhar: He That Is Chosen (Chapter 1).” The 7-song project, will globally release on May 9th, via the ZetRoc Ent./BlackSmoke label imprint. Taking the lead again on production, Zacardi crafts a masterful body of work, including features by Jekalyn Carr, Chrystal Rucker, Jason Nelson and Jonathan Nelson.

15. Alesso & Becky Hill – Surrender

Global electronic music powerhouse, Alesso, joins forces with the UK’s dance music superstar, Becky Hill, on their compelling new single, “Surrender,” out now on Capitol Records. Alesso and Becky Hill have previously worked together on Alesso’s hit “Words,” as Becky wrote the lyrics to the iconic single. Now, “Surrender” marks the first time Becky’s phenomenal vocals are featured in a track with the industry juggernaut. Combining Alesso’s euphoric production with Becky Hill’s hypnotic vocals, the duo crafted an anthem that pulses with the tension of love on the edge. Alesso’s signature dynamic progressive-house sound builds a sense of emotional urgency, transforming personal stakes into a universal dancefloor ballad. Becky Hill injects the track with a rich and soulful performance, adding depth and authenticity to the single’s powerful and emotional narrative.

“Becky Hill is a once in a generation talent,” says Alesso. “Her voice is made for tracks like ‘Surrender’. I am excited for the world to fall in love with this track like we did.”

“I’m so excited for ‘Surrender’ to be out in the world!” says Becky Hill. “It’s great to work with Alesso on the record which blends emotional lyrics with those nostalgic trance influences. It’s a sound that takes me back, but also still feels so fresh and exciting. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!”

Alesso continues to cement his status as a global dance music leader, recently making history as the first international recording artist in Billboard Dance Radio chart history to achieve two #1 hits with two different songs in consecutive weeks. His chart-topping singles include “I Like It” with country star Nate Smith and “Never Going Home Tonight” with David Guetta. Additionally, in 2024, Alesso launched his label, Body Hi, which has been soaring ever since, delivering genre-defying hits like “Lonely Heart” with John Alto and “DO YOU LIKE BASS” by John Alto, among others. As festival season approaches, Alesso can be seen at Coachella Music Festival for an epic back-to-back special set with Gorgon City at the Quasar stage during weekend 2. Additionally, he is set to play major dance festivals such as Ultra Music Festival and EDC Las Vegas while continuing his residency at TAO Nightlife in Las Vegas.

Meanwhile, Becky Hill continues to ride high off her sophomore album, Believe Me Now?—which landed in a #3 chart position. The album also included her single, “Never Be Alone” with Sonny Fodera, which went #1 at US Dance Radio, and includes many other notable tracks. The arena-headlining, two-time BRIT award winner has cemented her status as one of Britain’s most celebrated and respected dance music trailblazers. Now the two global artists come together with “Surrender”, as they both reinforce their reputations for crafting songs that are as emotionally resonant as they are sonically exhilarating. This new track emerges as an essential single poised to electrify dancefloors around the globe, solidifying Alesso and Becky Hill as indispensable captivators shaping electronic music’s future without end.

16. Little Feat – Midnight Flight

Today, Little Feat – criminally underrated pioneering rock band – announced the release of their grooving new single “Midnight Flight” featuring on forthcoming new album, Strike Up The Band, set for release May 9 via Hot Tomato.

Little Feat also announced a three-day festival in Woodstock, New York for August 30 through September 1 with plans to record performances for a new live album. Tickets go on sale Friday, April 4 – visit littlefeat.net for more information.

Their latest single “Midnight Flight” has a trademark Little Feat syncopated groove, earworm horn melody, love-struck lyrics, and a Scott Sharrard blistering guitar solo, which in all, make it yet another remarkable addition to the Little Feat canon.

“I wrote this song in the winter of 2020, shortly after joining Little Feat.” stated, Sharrard, adding, “Looking back on it, I feel like this song blends the sonic palate of Freddie King’s albums with Leon Russell and the sound we all love so much, which we heard on Little Feat’s “comeback” album, Let It Roll. It’s got that boogie feel that gets people up.”

On the forthcoming Feat Fest, Sharrard stated, “The town of Woodstock, NY, like most iconic spots on the American musical map, has become more than a place, it’s a feeling. The same could be said for the sound of Little Feat. The connection of the band to this location goes all the way back to the 1960s and 70s. It was the sound of The Bands “Music from Big Pink” and their work with Bob Dylan that helped spur on the founding of Little Feat by Lowell George and Bill Payne in 1969. Since the early 2000’s, Levon Helms Midnight Ramble became a jam hang out and incubator for members of our band. Now it’s Little Feats turn to decamp, hang out a while and infuse the mountain air with some Feat Boogie.

The Bearsville Theater will be hosting us for a rock and roll revival and celebration of over 50 years of gonzo funk, rad gumbo, soul ballads, and interstellar improvisations. We will have a few local friends along for the ride to honor the Little Feat tradition and take part in the sound of the local Woodstock community of extraordinary friends, artists, and musicians.

Our 3-night residency will also be recorded for a future live album, so we are inviting you all to come and be part of this next chapter in the band’s history. From its origin as the land of the Lenape Indians to its reign as Rock and Roll’s true musical mountain sanctuary, we are thrilled to present Woodstock and the Bearsville Theater as the location for the first Feat Fest, 2025.”

This week, American Songwriter spoke exclusively to the band and described the new single as “expertly straddling the line of pop and rock with a sprinkle of jazz for good measure.”

Sharrard told American Songwriter, “I was inspired by Little Feat’s specific use of their New Orleans funk groove. There are guitar open tunings are all over this record. I learned a lot about open tunings from the way Lowell George played slide guitar and the way Paul Barrere played. This song kind of combines those elements.”

The feature also covers the album to come, which Bill Payne describing the album to American Songwriter as “portraits of songs, none of which are like the other, a classic cornerstone of Little Feat over the band’s five-plus decades” and the amalgamation of genres and styles and the band’s “wide variety of material” is the reason it has stood strong for since the ’70s.

“You’d have to play in 10 different bands to play the breadth of music that we play,” Bill Payne said to American Songwriter. “So selfishly, I’ve always wanted to maintain that vehicle. It would be darn near impossible to work with anybody else, given that there’s very few bands that are allowed, much less have the acumen, to play as varied songs as we do.”

17. Shinedown – Dance, Kid, Dance

Today, the record-breaking, chart-topping, multi-platinum band Shinedown have released a monster of a music video for their #1 song “Dance, Kid, Dance.” The music video, which was filmed in Brooklyn, NY and brings the viewer into a dark underground world of pure rock fervor and dance. The video opens up with concert goers trying to break into a vending machine to take “the pills (that) will make you dance” and building into a nonstop crescendo of a mixture of rock and pure adrenaline. Not to mention, the video features the members of Shinedown doing exactly what they do best – bring the high energy with a killer live performance.

On the new music video and its creative vision Brent Smith said: “For the video, we really wanted to focus on the dancers. Every one of them brought so much energy to the set, and it was amazing to watch and be a part of. The song doesn’t let up, so it was super important that our performance as a band matched the intensity of the choreography. When it came to the location, everyone agreed that NYC was the place. The backdrop of the city, and the authenticity of the dance culture was extremely important. One of the coolest things about the video for us as a band, is that every time you watch it you see something new, and exciting. We had an absolute blast making it and we hope the fans love it as much as we do.”

The video was directed by Lewis Cater, choreographed by Julissa Bond, and edited by Samuel Halleen.

Up next the band will kick off their Dance, Kid, Dance Tour on April 25th in Des Moines, Iowa. The 36-date run is one of the largest run of shows (and venues) the band has ever put on. It will be the first time the band has ever headlined some of the country’s most legendary venues including Madison Square Garden (July 20th), Boston’s TD Garden (July 19th), LA’s Kia Forum (August 3rd), New Orleans’ Smoothie King (May 6th) and more. Joining them on the tour are Beartooth & Bush (on select dates) and Morgan Wade for all shows. See full tour dates below and at www.shinedown.com.

Recently Brent Smith sat down with Beartooth’s own Caleb Shomo and talked about how excited they were to be going on tour in an Off The Record video series. Filmed at Henson Studios in Los Angeles the two talked about the origins of each band, how the bands got to know about one another, growing into being an artist, and about what fans can expect on the new Dance, Kid, Dance tour. Not to mention they touch on some of rock’s favorite’s including Slipknot, Gwar, Papa Roach, Parkway Drive, Iron Maiden and more. Check out the “Off The Record” interview HERE.

This year has also come with some historic wins for the band as they recently took home two trophies at the iHeartRadio Music Awards where they won Rock Artist of the Year and Rock Song of the Year for “A Symptom of Being Human.”

The awards were in celebration of the banner year they’ve had as “A Symptom of Being Human” has hit nearly 125 million global streams and charted at five radio formats including a #1 at Active, Top 10 at Alternative, Top 10 at AC, Top 15 at Hot AC and a Top 20 at Top 40. To date Shinedown are the very first artist to get a song Top 10 at Active, Alternative and Hot AC Radio on Mediabase with one song. The song, off of their Planet Zero album, resonated with fans across the globe for the unifying message of its lyrics: that it is our human connections that matter the most.

The band has already had a packed 2025 as their latest single “Dance, Kid, Dance” has made history reaching #1 on the Mediabase Active Rock Chart, which marks their 22nd song to reach #1 on the chart, and on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart. Shinedown have become the only band in the charts history to reach 20 #1’s on the chart. Not to mention when the song entered the Top 5 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart, Shinedown tied with the Foo Fighters for the artists with the most songs to hit the top 10 in the chart’s history with 32 songs each. All these incredible accomplishments continue to solidify that Shinedown have made a name for themselves in rock. On Mediabase, Shinedown hold the record for the most #1’s, #5’s and #10’s on the Active Rock chart, with a total of 24 #1’s on the Mediabase charts.

However, Shinedown aren’t just a rock band. They are Shinedown – a band for everyone and just like they did with “A Symptom of Being Human” they have already crossed over with their second 2025 single “Three Six Five.” The track not only is already Top 15 at Alternative Radio and Hot AC but it continues to climb.

Brent Smith and Eric Bass co-wrote “Three Six Five” and “Dance, Kid, Dance” was co-written by Brent Smith, Eric Bass & Dave Bassett. The songs were produced by Eric Bass at his own Big Animal Studio in Charleston, South Carolina.

For the tour, Shinedown has teamed up with Musicians On Call and will be donating $1 for every ticket sold for the tour. As the nation’s leading provider of live music in hospitals, Musicians On Call (MOC) has delivered the healing power of music to patients, families, and caregivers in healthcare environments for 25 years. More than one million people across all 50 states have experienced the joys of live music in the hospital setting through MOC’s bedside, virtual, and streaming programs. MOC Volunteers perform live for children and adults facing any health challenge, including Veterans recovering in VA facilities, family members supporting loved ones in need, and healthcare workers caring for patients. The collaboration is just one of the many charities Shinedown supports as they frequently give back to organizations in need. For a full list of their charitable efforts check out their #ShinedownShares page HERE.

Shinedown continues to demonstrate that they are one of the most forward-thinking powerhouses in music, forever pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a modern-day rock band. The tour and new music not only kick off a new era for Shinedown but continue to celebrate the momentous acclaim the band received from their juggernaut song “A Symptom of Being Human” off their 7th studio album Planet Zero (Atlantic Records). The song, has hit nearly 125 million global streams and charted at five radio formats including a #1 at Active, Top 10 at Alternative, Top 10 at AC, Top 15 at Hot AC and a Top 20 at Top 40. To date Shinedown are the very first artist to get a song Top 10 at Active, Alternative and Hot AC Radio on Mediabase with one song. The song, off of their Planet Zero album, resonated with fans across the globe for the unifying message of its lyrics: that it is our human connections that matter the most.

Be on the lookout for more news on Shinedown soon!

18. Joe Kay – If Not Now, Then When?

After more than a decade of shaping the global music landscape, Joe Kay, founder of Soulection, is stepping into the spotlight as an artist with the release of his debut EP, If Not Now, Then When?

Accompanying the project, the artist will reveal a fresh new visualizer for the focus track, “Hesitation,” featuring Karri. The EP is now available on all digital streaming platforms.

If Not Now, Then When? showcases Joe Kay’s unique perspective, merging R&B and Soul, with touches of Jamaican dub sounds and Afrobeats influences that create a distinct sonic blend. The project features contributions from artists including Amaria, Arin Ray, Blackway, Cruza, Dylan Sinclair, Isaiah Falls, Karri, Merges, Sinead Harnett, and production by D’Mile, Budgie, Jordan Manswell, and more. This project emphasizes Joe Kay’s tasteful ability to connect and create music that resonates long-term.

19. Braden Bales – Subtitle

Capitol Records rising artist Braden Bales has released his new single, “SUBTITLE.”

The single showcases Braden’s soulful vocals and delivers an emotional love ballad that intertwines raw emotion from a heartbreak with infectious pop-alt production, cementing his status as one of music’s most compelling new voices in the scene right now.

In case you haven’t heard, Braden has just wrapped up his first headline North American tour. He made stops in major cities such as New York, Chicago, and ended the tour in Los Angeles. Braden has a full project coming this year called, 5 STAGES OF GRIEF which goes deeply into what Braden has gone through over the last few years and how he has turned his experiences into art.

20. Boldy James & V Don – Alphabet Highway

Where we at wid it…

Boldy James, is back and on the Alphabet Highway with V Don.

A true virtuoso, Boldy James is undoubtedly a true anomaly. With each successive project, Boldy’s detailed, complex, and sharp writing and delivery continues to evolve. Not only is Boldy one of the most prolific artists of his generation, he also exemplifies both quality and quantity. A facet that Fader recently examined with “Mr. 227,” as they touched on his rapid-release schedule since 2024.

But that only tells half of the story, for context, take a second to appreciate the run Boldy has been on the last 5-years; critical and fan favorite projects with The Alchemist, Conductor Williams, Harry Fraud, Nicholas Craven, Real Bad Man, Jay Versace, Sterling Toles, Token Of Appreciation with Pro Era’s Chuck Strangers, and most recently Hommage with Antt Beatz. Now you can add V Don’s name to that list as well, as Boldy & V Don have officially released their new collab project, Alphabet Highway, which is now available at all DSP’s.

V Don is also a kindred spirit with Boldy, as he is also very familiar with the quality and quantity mantra, recently revealing that he plans on releasing 10 projects in 2025; including collaborations with Boldy, Rome Streetz, Crimeapple, Eto & Estee Nack among others.

“I had a great time making this album, and it was our first time collaborating as well. We cooked up every joint together, in person–from NYC to Detroit,” V Don commented. “I brought a few different production styles to the table, and Boldy snapped on every joint. We really caught a vibe with this one.”

Boldy James & V Don’s Alphabet Highway is now available via RRC Music Company.

21. GELO – Law & Order

Back with more heat, buzzing gold-certified rapper GELO (LiAngelo Ball) serves up a new single entitled “Law N Order” out now via Def Jam Recordings. Listen HERE.

GELO initially debuted the song live on stage in front of a sold out crowd at Rolling Loud California in his hometown of Los Angeles. It immediately incited tastemaker applause, COMPLEX declared, “It sounds like a hit…Move over, ‘Tweaker’.” In addition to plugs from Stereogum and more, Sports Illustrated highlighted how, “GELO performed an unreleased song during the set which has started to go viral in its own right on social media.”

GELO doesn’t just meet this anticipation head-on; he delivers tenfold with “Law N Order.” The track’s bright melodic piano loop blinks over a thumping bassline as GELO leans into his signature laidback flow. The songs heat comes on the heels of recently released “Can You Please” featuring multi-platinum superstar GloRilla.

GELO lit up the NBA All-Star Game at the Chase Center in San Francisco, CA with a showstopping performance of “Tweaker,” affirming his starpower. Moreover, the song just earned a GOLD certification from the RIAA making “Tweaker” one of the fastest-growing songs in 2025.

22. Sophie Powers – move with me

Rising avant-pop force Sophie Powers is back and bolder than ever with her latest single, “move with me.” Marking the dawn of a new era, the 20-year-old artist sheds the bubblegum neon aesthetic that defined her earlier work, stepping into a darker, rawer, and more nihilistic vision—one that embraces chaos rather than sugarcoating it.

A sonic adrenaline rush, “move with me” surges with pulsating synths, futuristic pop melodies, and Sophie’s signature rebellious spirit. The track captures the struggle of balancing ambition with intimacy in a world that never slows down. It’s about finding someone who doesn’t hold you back but matches your momentum. The accompanying music video for “move with me” will be out today at 9 AM PT / 12 PM ET.

“It’s becoming harder and harder to find someone who seamlessly fits into our busy lives,” Sophie explains. “As a music artist, fashion designer, and 20-year-old bisexual ‘girlboss,’ my hectic schedule has made dating feel impossible—but it’s not just me. My generation values independence over tradition. Finding a partner isn’t a necessity, but it’s still nice to meet someone who just gets you—who can keep up and move with you.”

Sophie Powers is leading the charge of a new generation of sharp-minded, creative outcasts. Call her sound whatever you want, but one thing is certain: she is on a mission to bring raw, unfiltered emotion back to a pop landscape that often feels detached.

That subversive attitude towards genre is also expressed in Sophie’s visual aesthetic. She designs all of her own outfits, collaborating with a seamstress to create looks as bold and unconventional as her sound. She recently partnered with Harajuku streetwear brand ACDC RAG and Gloomy Bear to design a collection that celebrates individuality, bold expression, and counterculture.

Since making her debut in 2022, the Toronto-born, LA-based artist has caught the attention of tastemakers like PAPER, The FADER, and Alternative Press. Following the release of her debut EP, Kerrang! crowned her “the next poster girl for femme attitude”—a title she continues to embody. That same bold energy translates to her magnetic live performances, where she commands the stage with an electrifying presence. This summer, fans can experience it firsthand as she takes over all three dates of Warped Tour and brings her high-octane show to the UK’s Slam Dunk Festival.

Through her music, visuals, and unapologetic attitude, Sophie Powers isn’t just redefining what it means to be an artist—she’s creating an entirely new blueprint.

23. JANE HANDCOCK – Stingy

Bay Area native and five-time Emmy Award-winning artist JANE HANDCOCK unveils her latest offering, “Stingy,” out now via Death Row Records/gamma.. Accompanying the release is a vintage-inspired visualizer, featuring HANDCOCK performing in a nostalgic nail salon, effortlessly delivering her signature soulful vocals.

“Stingy” is a smooth and intimate track that blends dreamy guitars and chimes, perfectly capturing the butterflies of a budding connection. As HANDCOCK navigates the uncertainty of where her relationship stands, she craves clarity and reassurance that their bond is solid. With a mix of fiery moments and vulnerable feelings, she asks for her partner’s undivided attention, hoping he’ll be just as “stingy” with his love, keeping it locked up all for her.

JANE shares the inspiration behind the track, saying, “I wrote ‘Stingy’ about parlaying with my sneaky link but actually realizing I caught real feelings for him. Now, I wanna be stingy & keep him all to myself… We’ll see how it goes… Stay tuned…”

24. Rod Wave – Sinners

Rod Wave – the multi-platinum Rap/R&B powerhouse who has amassed a staggering 8 billion streams in the past year alone and whose last five consecutive albums have debuted at #1 on the Billboard Rap Albums chart – today releases “Sinners,” the title track from Oscar-nominated director Ryan Coogler’s new film starring Michael B. Jordan. The song is accompanied by a new music video, also directed by Coogler.

“Sinners” is the lead single from the upcoming Sinners Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, set for an April 18 release via Masterworks, accompanied by an Original Score album via Sony Classical featuring music by Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson. Starring Michael B. Jordan, Sinners debuts exclusively in theaters nationwide on Friday, April 18.

Rod Wave was inspired to write “Sinners” after watching the film at Coogler’s special request. “Ryan is one of my favorite directors out, from Fruitvale Station to Black Panther,” said Rod. “When I heard that he wanted to work with me, I was excited by the opportunity to enter his world. I connected with the movie instantly when I watched it.”

Released in October ‘24, Rod Wave’s latest album LAST LAP entered Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, Rap Albums and Top Streaming Albums charts at #1 and the Billboard 200 album chart at #2. Rod Wave’s prior three consecutive albums – Soulfly, Beautiful Mind and Nostalgia – all debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200. LAST LAP is Rod Wave’s Wave’s seventh consecutive Top 10 album debut, fifth consecutive #1 Rap album, and his fourth consecutive solo rap album do 100K+ units, a feat unmatched in the last four years. The album has amassed over one billion streams to date.

25. Lil Yachty & Veeze – Can't Be Concrete Boy

Lil Yachty has officially released his latest song, “Can’t Be Crete Boy,” featuring Veeze, along with an accompanying music video. Both Yachty and Veeze demonstrate why they’ve garnered cult-like followings as hip-hop mavericks, effortlessly flowing over the song’s rattling 808s and soulful sample before a sudden, ominous beat switch where their deliveries remain just as composed.

The “Can’t Be Crete Boy” music video opens with a clip of the two emcees through a point-of-view lens. Alternating backdrop shots of the duo exchanging bars in a school corridor and an empty classroom capture the song’s shifting energy. Draped in vibrant color schemes and glistening jewelry, their outfits underscore why the two are as respected for their trend-setting style as they are for their music.

The new song arrives as Lil Yachty continues touring alongside Tyler, the Creator on the Chromakopia World Tour.

26. Neil Diamond – Sweet Caroline (Two Friends Remix)

Today, acclaimed producer/DJ duo Two Friends release the first-ever official remix of Neil Diamond’s iconic hit “Sweet Caroline,” out now via Capitol/UMe on all streaming platforms. The remix marks a ground-breaking collaboration between two musical worlds—legendary rock/pop and modern dance music.

Two Friends’ remix of “Sweet Caroline” adds an infectious, house-driven beat that seamlessly merges with Diamond’s original vocals, giving the classic song a modern, dance-worthy twist while keeping its irresistible sing-along vibe intact. The remix is primed for dance floors and festivals, yet still carries the heart of the song that has made “Sweet Caroline” a global anthem that transcends generations.

“An official dance remix of “Sweet Caroline” has been a long-standing idea and the new Two Friends version both honors the song’s legacy while infusing it with an electrifying new energy,” said Katie Diamond, Neil Diamond’s manager.

Matt Halper and Eli Sones of Two Friends share, “When we were given the opportunity to officially remix ‘Sweet Caroline,’ we were beyond humbled. It’s one of those iconic songs that everyone just knows. To hear that a musical legend like Neil Diamond himself listened to our take on the record—and loved it—was unreal. We’re so grateful that he trusted us with his masterpiece and allowed us to put our spin on a timeless classic.”

Two Friends gave fans an exclusive preview of the new song during exhilarating recent sets on “Heatwave: The Tour,” their North American headline tour that kicked off earlier this year, which included stops at The Shrine in Los Angeles.

Two Friends are gearing up for a monumental year of live performances. The duo will be bringing their high-energy sets to cities across North America, including their upcoming yearly Big Bootie Land event in Seattle, WA premiering the Vol.26 mix, a highly anticipated show at the legendary Brooklyn Mirage in Brooklyn, NY, and a not to be missed set at Lollapalooza in Chicago this summer along with their long standing residences at Wynn’s XS Nightclub and Encore Beach club in Las Vegas and LIV Nightclub in Miami. Two Friends are also set to perform at this year’s Indy 500, often coined the “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” Fans can expect to hear the official remix of “Sweet Caroline” and many more of the duo’s signature tracks as they continue to take the festival scene by storm.

27. Salvatore Mundi – In The Way

Rising star artist Salvatore Mundi reveals new single “In The Way” that’s fun, easy going, and catchy to the ears. It previews a long, successful 2025 for the budding musician.

Co-signed by Lyrical Lemonade, MTV, and most recently BET, Mundi has all the makings of a star. 2025 is his year and “In The Way” is just a preview.

Full of good vibes, catchy bars, and titflty written songs, Mundi’s catalog is one of the most diverse for rising artists. A talented gem that’s on the come up, Salvatore Mundi is a name to watch this year.

The video that pairs up with the release is a vision by Mundi that is meant to encourage creativity and invoke positive vibrations.

28. David Duane ft. Rauziel – Waste My Time

David Duane returns with his latest single, “Waste My Time,” featuring Rauziel, out now via David Duane / Kalin Miguel. Download / Stream here

Produced by longtime collaborator Party Michael, the track introduces a fresh sonic direction for Duane, blending rich soul textures with sharp emotional lyricism. This marks his first release since the deluxe edition of his debut album “Unapologetic Blonde”, which featured standout single “All Of You.”

“Waste My Time” draws inspiration from a personal chapter in Duane’s life—an emotionally complex friendship that led him to reflect on the value of time and connection. The track is both intimate and relatable, anchored by Party Michael’s sleek production and a dynamic feature from Inglewood’s own Rauziel, known for his work on projects like “Vice Versa” and the RIAA Gold-certified “Goat” with Eric Bellinger. Their chemistry on the track is undeniable, delivering a heartfelt yet confident anthem for anyone reclaiming their energy.

“I’m super excited about this release,” Duane shares. “This record’s been in the vault for two years, and I’ve been through a lot since then. I wanted to wait until I was in a space of healing and growth before sharing it. Now feels like the perfect moment. ” With “Waste My Time,” David Duane not only reintroduces himself but also sets the stage for an exciting new chapter in his evolving musical journey.

29. Eric Roberson ft. BJ The Chicago Kid – Where You Gonna Go

Multi-award winning singer-songwriter-producer Eric Roberson has released his new single, “Where You Gonna Go” featuring Grammy nominated singer-songwriter BJ The Chicago Kid. The beautifully-pended neo-soul tune, will be globally available on all streaming/download platforms on Friday, April 4th, 2025.

“WHERE YOU GONNA GO” was written by Eric Roberson, Bryan James Sledge and Rodney Jones and produced by Eric Roberson, and Rodney Jones for Art of Artez Productions. “Where You Gonna Go” is a song that explores simple extremes”, says Roberson. “It’s inspired by a question I ask myself to help the sunshine, even when facing storms.“ A lullaby hook blended with 70’s soul, Detroit hip hop, and 3/4 gospel undertones invite listeners to engage in everything from slow dancing with a partner to praying for them. The song’s mission is to enhance people’s self-worth and growth,” he adds.

Being no stranger to driving emotions in the right direction, while blending soulful melodies with heartfelt lyrics that resonate with love, loss and reflection, Eric Roberson, continues to prove why he has been called the co-Captain of the Neo-soul movement for all of these years. Whether over the course of his seventeen beloved LPs (2001’s The Esoteric Movement to 2022’s Lessons) or through songwriting/production/vocal collaborations with the likes of Jill Scott, Dwele, Musiq Soulchild, Vivian Green, DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Spinna and others, fine-tuned R&B music ears have come to recognize and make a somewhat spiritual connection with his everyday relatable, multi-influenced vibe which mirrors their own lives and experiences. “It’s R&B and soul music, but I’m a hip-hop dude,” Eric replies, of his influences as it relates to his music’s appeal.

Indeed, nothing less than heartfelt gratitude for the blessing of being able to continue releasing music through his very own Blue Erro Soul Entertainment, as well as accolades which have included two successive Grammy nominations for “Best Urban/Alternative Performance” (for “A Tale of two” in 2010; “Still” in 2011), a BET J Virtual Award for “Underground Artist of the Year” (2008), being distinguished as the first independent artist to be nominated for a BET Award in 2007 and sold-out tours throughout the world is what makes Eric Roberson, “The Soul Man himself”.

30. RÜFÜS DU SOL – In the Moment (Adriatique Remix)

Today Grammy-winning live electronic trio RÜFÜS DU SOL announce Inhale / Exhale Remixed, the official remix package for their acclaimed album Inhale / Exhale, set to arrive on May 2. Offering a glimpse into the upcoming 15-track remix collection, Adriatique’s remix of “In the Moment” is out now via Rose Avenue/Reprise Records. Listen HERE and pre-order Inhale / Exhale Remixed HERE.

A celebration of their deep-rooted connection to clubland and undeniable influence in the electronic space, Inhale / Exhale Remixed further expands on the band’s legacy as both creators and tastemakers. Curated by the trio, Inhale / Exhale Remixed will feature Turkish-Italian underground favorite Carlita, Haitian house producer Francis Mercier, Peruvian DJ Sofia Kourtesis, Swiss heavyhitter Andrea Oliva, German deep house artist Emanuel Satie, melodic innovator Enamour, Afro-tech powerhouse Nitefreak, and more alongside Adriatique’s “In The Moment” remix.

Leading Inhale / Exhale Remixed, Adriatique envelope “In the Moment” in their signature sound, lifting RÜFÜS’ soft original with ethereal synthwork and driving basslines to cadence the energy of the dancefloor. RÜFÜS and Adriatique have a collaborative history, starting when the Swiss duo’s remix of “On My Knees” launched the band’s Surrender (Remixes) in 2022. The following year, RÜFÜS offered their take on Adriatique and WhoMadeWho’s Rose Avenue-released single “Miracle”. The “In The Moment” remix sees the pairing come full circle with a rework that embodies the after-hours pulse of Inhale / Exhale Remixed.

Since the release of their widely celebrated fifth studio album last October, RÜFÜS DU SOL have cemented their status as one of the most successful live electronic acts in the world. They’ve broken personal records, like debuting on the Billboard 200 chart and earning their first No.1 on dance radio with “Music is Better”. Their ongoing Inhale / Exhale World Tour is the biggest-selling single artist electronic music tour of all time, a new milestone for the band.

The tour kicked off last month in South America with headline stops and performances at Lollapalooza Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. Adriatique’s “In the Moment” remix arrives just in time for the North American leg of the tour, which will start with a trio of sold out shows in Texas. The tour will continue into the summer for a nearly sold out run with stops in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, and Toronto, along with festival appearances at Lollapalooza and Up In The Sky.

Stream Adriatique’s “In The Moment” remix available now on all platforms and pre-order Inhale / Exhale Remixed.

31. Brandy Haze – Apartment

Rising R&B / Soul songstress Brandy Haze is back with her latest single, ‘Apartment,’ a dreamy blend of bedroom pop and neo-soul now available on all streaming platforms. Download / Stream here. Written by Brandy Haze herself and produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Najeeb Jones (Godchild), ‘Apartment’ dives deep into themes of independence, self-reflection, and the quiet strength of solitude. With its mellow tones and intimate storytelling, the track captures a moment of stillness and introspection, offering listeners a window into Brandy’s evolving artistry.

‘Apartment’ builds on Brandy’s reputation for creating atmospheric, emotionally resonant music. Inspired by the idea of finding peace in your own space, the single explores the balance between freedom and self-awareness. The track’s warm production, guided by Najeeb Jones (Godchild), complements Brandy’s smooth vocals, creating an immersive listening experience that feels like a personal moment shared with her audience. Following the release of her 2024 single ‘SIMPLE,’ “Apartment’ represents the next chapter in her journey, showcasing her ability to craft songs that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable.

At its core, ‘Apartment’ is a playful yet deeply introspective anthem for anyone who treasures the little moments of joy that come with living authentically in their own space. Brandy Haze’s soft vocals, paired with the nostalgic, cozy production, create a sense of familiarity that feels like home. The single perfectly captures the balance between self-assured independence and tender reflection. Don’t miss out on this soulful gem from Brandy Haze & stay tuned for more!

32. Valley Boy – Happy All The Time

Of all the titles you could give to Valley Boy, the one he can’t seem to shake is being called a child of divorce. As he starts teasing his upcoming debut concept album Children Of Divorce, he today unveils the first single “Happy All The Time.” The song is a spirited and ragged ode to a struggle that’s all too familiar to all children in the divorced parents club — feigning happiness.

His gleefully sarcastic two cents on the song is that, “one thing you should know about children of divorce is that we’re happy all the time.” Today’s release details a common arc of his own relationships, painting in broad strokes the cyclical cadence of outrunning sadness and finding love, only to have sadness catch up with you time and time again — Stream.

Born in the San Fernando Valley, from where he takes his name, Valley Boy spent the beginning of his career lending writing and production skills to the likes of Sabrina Carpenter, Troye Sivan and Dua Lipa. Most recently, he co-wrote the chart-topping “Handlebars (ft. Dua Lipa)” on JENNIE’s debut solo album Ruby. But with an unseen tether pulling him back to creating his own music, Valley Boy found that he was having soul-crushing fun weaving together stirring vignettes from his childhood and of the people who made it up on his upcoming debut album. And later this year, the entirety of Children Of Divorce will be revealed.

Today’s single is supported by a live performance video, directed by Jimmy Regular, that clearly demonstrates that while streaming Valley Boy is one thing, seeing him live is a whole other. With a soul-stirring voice that swells to fill an entire echoey, defunct auto-body shop, performing live is where Valley Boy’s music can really breathe and he can sing harder than the studio compressors will allow — Watch.

Bridging the visceral genuineness of the live video to the real world, Valley Boy will be performing across the East Coast and Canada supporting LAUREL this month. And then in May, he will be playing with his friend Chezile on his tour — see all upcoming tour dates here.

33. ZINOLEESKY – Most Wanted

After teasing fans with a cinematic trailer for his long-awaited debut album Gen Z at the start of the year, Billboard-charting Nigerian streetpop star ZINOLEESKY ignites the countdown to the highly anticipated album with the release of its electrifying final lead single ‘MOST WANTED’ arriving on April 4. Produced by longtime collaborator Niphkeys (Stormzy, Rema), the track is a confident declaration from an artist entering a new era on his own terms. Fusing afrobeats, trap and dancehall into a slick, world-ready sound, ‘Most Wanted’ reflects Zinoleesky’s growth, resilience, and undeniable pull. Lyrically sharp and rhythmically bold, it’s a statement of intent that affirms his status as one of the finest young artists in global music. Whether on radio, in the club, or through headphones across the diaspora, ‘Most Wanted’ is a universal anthem of self-assurance and forward motion.

As anticipation builds toward the late April release of the Gen Z album, ‘Most Wanted’ offers one more glimpse into the bold, immersive world Zinoleesky has crafted over the last two years, a world where music becomes both escape and expression. ‘Most Wanted’ as well as the forthcoming Gen Z album signal the start of a new era for the Billboard-charting Nigerian star, whose sound continues to evolve while remaining rooted in streetpop authenticity and emotional truth. With its layered lyricism, infectious groove, and undeniable charisma, ‘Most Wanted’ carries the energy of an artist who isn’t afraid to claim his moment, and perfectly sets the stage for what promises to be a defining chapter in Zinoleesky’s ascent – a moment of personal growth, global ambition and boundary-pushing artistry that affirms Zino as one of the leaders of afropop and global music’s new wave.

34. Joony – Dopa(MINE)

Following his standout performance on A COLORS SHOW, Maryland’s own triple threat rapper, producer, and songwriter, Joony continues his meteoric rise with the official release of his latest single, “Dopa(MINE)”. The track builds on the momentum of his collaborative EP, JRNY, a five-track project with Jordan Ward that cemented the duo’s effortless compatibility with precise lyricism and genre-defying production. Joony will bring his unique brand of R&B to the desert next Saturday, April 12, performing a special set in GV Black’s Party In My Living Room space at Coachella.

When asked to describe his 2025 debut, Joony shared, “‘Dopa(MINE)’ is a record of self reflection, and admitting to yourself that you don’t feel whole without your other half/vice. Your other half could be your partner, social media, sex, drugs, etc. It’s written from the perspective of your other half asking if you feel whole without them. The question is meant to make you think deeply about the relationship you have with your vices, and determine whether or not it’s a healthy one.”

Joony invites his devoted fanbase into a cinematic glimpse of his world in the accompanying visualizer. Through Super 8 film footage, the video finds the “IDC” singer embracing nature, leaning against an old-school pickup truck before disappearing into the woods in search of solitude, an aesthetic that perfectly mirrors the song’s themes of introspection and passion.

Joony’s ascent in R&B has been nothing short of remarkable. His versatility has afforded him collabs with greats like Brent Faiyaz and Blxst, bringing the DMV to the world stage. Alongside Leon Thomas and Joyce Wrice, he supported Blxst on his I’ll Always Come Find You tour, where he had crowds arriving early and reciting every lyric. With his COLORS performance gaining traction online, Joony delivers on the official version of “Dopa(MINE),” setting the stage for his highly anticipated next project.

35. Cousin Fik ft. E-40 & Too Short – Thangin

Today, Cousin Fik dropped new single “Thangin feat. E-40 & Too $hort” which you can now stream HERE via Sick Wid It Records/Virgin Music.

The new high-energy anthem, “Thangin” celebrates confidence and admires the women body with a playful flair. Produced by Bijan, the song boasts a fun beat that allows the rap trio to deliver clever bars. Cousin Fik kicks it off by asking the question everyone is wondering, “Is it real?” and raps “You got a dump truck, Ima need a CDL.” E-40 jumps in to advise “Sometimes you gotta be careful what you wish for” and rhymes “Might have to use it an umbrella that thing raining, Might have to run for some shelter starting to pour.” Too $hort joins in saying “When that thang thang, them two cheeks get together like gang gang,” coming together to complete this certified club banger.

The new single is paired with a music video featuring monochromatic aesthetics to highlight each rapper’s separate style and craft a visual that matches the energy of the track. E-40 can be seen parading his Earl Steven’s Mangoscato bottle while Fik and $hort deliver their own verses. Quick flashes of multiple women showcase add to the vibe, showcasing their confidence and unfiltered enjoyment of flaunting what they’ve got.

The single is an extension of Fik’s longstanding collaboration efforts with E-40, with whom he previously worked on hits like “Bay Area 51,” “Cold Game” and even appeared in the “Choices (Yup)” music video back in 2015.

Too $hort is diving into the movie world with his latest project, Freaky Tales, where he serves as both a producer and narrator. The highly anticipated film, opening in theaters on April 4th, was filmed in Oakland and follows four interconnecting stories set in 1987. Inspired by his iconic song “Freaky Tales” from the album Born to Mack, the film stars Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, singer Normani in her film debut, Dominique Thorne, Jack Champion, Ji-young Yoo, and Angus Cloud.

36. JonoJono – Frenchys

Rising alternative R&B artist JonoJono follows up his commercially successful crossover hit “Good Guys” with a dynamic new single, “Frenchys.” A fusion of silky grooves and raw emotion, the track is an irresistible blend of Thundercat’s fluid funk and the infectious energy of Michael Jackson’s Thriller, all anchored by a rolling, Bootsy Collins-style bassline that pulses with undeniable rhythm.

“Frenchys” explores the sting of disconnection—delivered with no intention of looking back. JonoJono’s timeless,
angelic vocal delivery makes it easy to sing along as he questions the actions of a loved one, before shifting the
mood with an H-Town rap flow that captures the loneliness of a one-sided exchange.

Despite its melancholy undertones, the track thrives on a disco-infused party tempo, proving once again that
JonoJono has a rare ability to balance emotional depth with uplifting energy. As the beat takes over, “Frenchys”
becomes an anthem for dancing through the pain—choosing self over circumstance, and finding light in the
darkness.

Get ready to move—“Frenchys” available on all streaming platforms.

37. Dreamer Isioma – StarX Lover

Today the first-generation Nigerian-American singer and songwriter Dreamer Isioma released their highly anticipated new album StarX Lover. In celebration, they share their captivating new music video for their incredibly moving song “I’m Going Through Hell (Bittersweet)”. Directed by their close collaborator Jared Avalos, the video captures Dreamer’s striking galactic journey that reflects the solar punk, dark sci-fi feel that lines with the album. Produced by peer Victor Internet, Saint Lewis, and Frankie Scoca (NewJeans, Sevdaliza, BTS, dhruv), the album presents a collection of tracks that embody Dreamers’ staggering artistic evolution, one that is dynamic in nature and rooted in unrelenting self confidence and authenticity with staggering depth and emotion. The arrival of the album establishes a bold new chapter through a genre-defying collection of songs that give life to Dreamer’s cosmic universe and cement them as an essential artist in music today.

StarX Lover ushers in a new era for the young artist sonically and personally that is brought to life through the cosmic new universe at the core of the album. The new chapter is soundtracked by a sonic direction that ventures in a more rock / alternative territory while still remaining rooted in the Dreamer’s Nigerian heritage and life in Lagos, a scintillating new sound they call “Afropop rock.” The album was written and produced largely by Dreamer Isioma with additional contributions from close collaborators Romello, Brooklynn Skye, Victor Internet, Frankie Scoca and Saint Lewis, who helped shape a few tracks by adding instrumentation and subtle production elements.

Additionally, Dreamer will kick off their new headlining North American StarX Lover Tour on April 24 in Washington, DC and wraps on May 31st in Chicago bringing the scintillating world of StarX Lover to life for the very first time – full dates below. In support, artist ivri will be opening on all dates. Tickets are now on sale to the public on HERE.

The young artist has quickly built a cult following and has long received praise and support by some of today’s biggest stars including SZA, Janelle Monae, Steve Lacy, Doja Cat, Lizzo, Foushee, Kali Uchis and many more through their dynamic art. Fierce and unrelenting in their vision, Dreamer’s music has long worked to dismantle genre confines and disrupt social norms to ultimately create space for those who don’t fit into binaries. Dreamer broke onto the scene with their massive hit “Sensitive” in 2020, which has now clocked in nearly 220 million streams and landed them on Rolling Stone’s Breakthrough 25 Chart ranked at #6 as well as #1 on Shazam’s Predictions 2021 Chart ultimately reaching a viral explosion on TikTok.

Dreamer has time-after-time received large critical acclaim for each of their explosive projects, including Princess Forever, The Leo Sun Sets, and Goodnight Dreamer. Additionally, Isioma has amassed 325 million career streams across their catalog and becoming a bonafide critical press darling who has been lauded by NPR, Rolling Stone, Vogue, i-D, Complex, BET, Billboard, NME, Teen Vogue, PAPER Magazine, Pigeons and Planes, Nylon, HYPEBEAST, them, Wonderland and many others.

The Chicago native has become celebrated for effortlessly combining timeless vocals and groovy, funk-inspired production, brilliantly fusing indie rock, R&B, pop, Afrobeats, and hip hop with lyrical themes about being unapologetic, carefree, and joyful despite external pressure and opinion. Dreamer’s voice has become an anthem for young marginalized voices everywhere defying conformity and intolerance. Their captivating music and message has positioned them as an undeniable force who is re-inventing and revolutionizing modern popular music.

38. Ron E. – Northface (From The Block Performance)

Ron E. pulled up to From The Block to drop a sexy performance of his latest single, “Northface.” Keeping it effortless, he let the lyrics and vibe take center stage, showcasing his blend of slick rhymes and melodic flow.

Produced by Hitmaka (Chris Brown, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, Tink), “Northface” is the latest track from Ron’s upcoming album, set to drop later this year via MNRK Music Group. The song’s energy is built for Spring Break and beyond—perfect for kicking back or turning up.

This release follows fan-favorite singles like “Worst Way” featuring Fabolous, “Perform,” and “Proud of You.” With each drop, Ron E. continues to carve his own space in today’s music scene.

39. Bossman Dlow – Money Talks

Today, BOSSMAN DLOW – the breakout new rap artist of 2024 with nearly two billion streams last year alone – releases a brand new track “Money Talks,” via Alamo Records.

“Money Talks” is Dlow’s first new music of 2025. Capping off an incredible 2024 with the release of his official debut album DLOW CURRY, Bossman Dlow enlisted some of the hottest names in rap to join him, including Glorilla, Ice Spice, French Montana, Lil Baby, NoCap, and BabyFace Ray.

Dlow’s hot streak has been undeniable. Nominated for Best Breakthrough Hip-Hop Artist at the BET Hip-Hop Awards, Dlow took to the stage at Drai’s in Las Vegas for a medley of his smash hits “Shake Dat Ass” and “Get In With Me.” Watch the full performance HERE!

Dlow was also named to XXL’s Freshmen Class, Billboard’s ‘Rookie Of The Month,”, BET’s Amplified artist program and a ‘Best New Artist’ nomination at the 2024 BET Awards.

Following his massive breakthrough mixtape Mr. Beat The Road, Dlow has released a flurry of Billboard Hot 100 hits this year, including the #1 Urban radio banger “Shake Dat Ass (Twerk Song),” and “PJ,” featuring Lil Baby.

“Get In With Me” – the lead single from Mr. Beat The Road and Dlow’s biggest track to date – hit #1 at Urban Radio, was certified platinum by the RIAA, ranked #25 on Billboard’s Top 200 Rap Songs of the year, and #14 on Complex’s ‘Best Songs Of The Year (So Far).’ Mr. Beat The Road tracks “Mr. Pot Scraper,”“Finesse” and “Talk My Shit” have all been certified gold.

THE DLOW CURRY TOUR continues throughout the month of April…

40. sullvn – The Fighter

In their first release of the year, San Diego band sullvn today unveils the irresistibly groovy new track “The Fighter.” Produced and co-written by Rome Rameriez, known for his work with Sublime with Rome, Selena Gomez, Dirty Heads, Enrique Iglesias and more, the song boasts a modern pop sound, backed by a full band that calls back to decades past. sullvn plays into tactful innuendo as they tell the tale of the age-old pairing of a lover and a fighter — Stream.

Led by Robert “Sully” Sullivan, the ever-changing collective is built up of world-renowned, award winning players including the GRAMMY-nominated bassist James East (Lionel Richie, Toni Braxton, Eric Clapton), the highly sought after Afro-Cuban Latin jazz percussionist Nacho Sobres, globally renowned saxophonist Tomoka Nomura-Jarvis (Andy Grammer, Rob Wave, Fat Joe), and many others. Read each artist’s bio here. A Southern California party in sonic form, sullvn breaks the mold as they soundtrack everything from a windows-down joyride to a swanky night at the lounge.

Sully shared, “‘The Fighter’ is all about that undeniable chemistry—the kind that pulls you in no matter how much you try to fight it. It’s passion, tension and surrender all wrapped up in one. Sometimes love feels like a battle, but it’s one worth fighting for and exactly what Rome and I wanted to reflect in this song.”

Over the coming months, sullvn will be spending more time out on the road bringing the joy of their live shows to more cities. In April, they will open for The Wailers in Venice, CA. And once festival season is in full swing, they will join the lineups of BeachLife Festival in Redondo Beach, CA, Fiesta Del Sol in Solano Beach, CA, and Bourbon & Beyond in Louisville, KY. Keep up with all sullvn live dates here.

Last year, sullvn released their debut album Love and Lies with sunny breakout track “Oh California.” Now with more music ready, they are working their way towards a follow up EP that further exemplifies this era of maturity and self-assuredness.

41. Paperwhite – By Your Side (Adam Weiss Remix)

Following the release of their shimmering single “By Your Side,”—hailed by EARMILK as “a catchy slice of their signature synth-pop“— pop duo Paperwhite, the project of siblings Katie (singer/songwriter) and Ben Marshall (producer/songwriter), return with “By Your Side (Adam Weiss Remix).”

Brooklyn-based composer and producer Adam Weiss brings his signature blend of ambient, electronic, and classical influences to Paperwhite’s latest dreamy single. Known for his evocative, cinematic style, Weiss has scored films such as McVeigh and Skin Can Breathe and composed music for Apple, IBM, Google, and Samsung ad campaigns. His music has also appeared in Mountain Dew’s ‘The Shining’ Super Bowl ad, CBS’s Emmy-nominated Pride campaign, and the critically acclaimed podcast This American Life. With his remix of “By Your Side,” Weiss elevates Paperwhite’s lush synth-pop sound, weaving in atmospheric textures to transform the track into a hypnotic, cinematic experience.

Since making their debut over a decade ago, Paperwhite have captivated fans and tastemakers alike, earning praise from Billboard, Vice, and Buzzfeed, and securing spots on numerous Spotify editorial playlists. The New York-based duo quickly became blogosphere favorites, twice earning the Hype Machine title of Most Blogged Artist. Beyond their online acclaim, they’ve shared the stage with Oh Wonder, SOFI TUKKER, and Great Good Fine Ok, solidifying their place as one of indie pop’s most beloved acts.

After a brief hiatus, Paperwhite re-emerged in late 2024 with their new single “Unfold,” marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Their forthcoming EP, due out this Spring, stays true to their signature dreamy, synth-driven pop while incorporating natural textures and a cinematic depth. Grounded in themes of self-discovery and emotive storytelling, Paperwhite are crafting a sonic world that welcomes both longtime fans and new listeners alike.

42. Lou Phelps – Chèlbè

Rising Haitian-Canadian artist Lou Phelps has delivered his most ambitious project to date with today’s release of “Chèlbè.”

Following the momentum built by singles “I Dunno,” “What Now,” and the razor-sharp “IS MY MIC ON?” This sophomore album firmly establishes Phelps in the international music scene. Chèlbè, an 11-track album executive produced by award-winning producer—and Lou’s brother—KAYTRANADA, delivers energetic tracks with Lou confidently flowing over smooth production throughout. Chelbe maintains a consistently uplifting and groovy vibe while blending classic rap with subtle R&B influences giving the listener a head-nodding experience from start to finish.

“I wanted to Make an album to put me in the space to shine in. I’ve been trying to find my lane in hip-hop and one night, I stopped searching and just leaned into what felt right.

A few years later—Top Z came to life. I always wanted to rep my Haitian roots in the music. So That’s the real beauty of this project. On the surface, it’s a good time. But dig a little, and it’s layered with stories and culture. You just gotta peel it back.” – Lou Phelps

Chèlbè was created to introduce a sound that represents the true nature of Montreal in what Phelps likes to call “a melting pot of influence.” The album sets the tone for what’s to come with “PROLLY US” – A nostalgic fusion of funk, soul and a cultural sound formally known as “Kompa” – a Haitian dance music genre that emerged in the 1950s, combining African rhythms and European ballroom dance influences. You’ll find more of this cultural influence throughout the album with tracks like “After i” – a collaboration with GoldLink showcasing Phelp’s other talents weaving English, French, and Haitian Creole together to create a uniquely cosmopolitan sound.

Chèlbè is set to release on April 4th, 2025 on DSP. Experience the album on vinyl now live for pre-order here.

43. Lenny Kravitz – Let It Ride

Today, Lenny Kravitz premieres his self-directed, sultry video for recent fan-favorite deep cut “Let It Ride.” With its dramatic poses, waves of smoke, and black and red lighting, the clip taps into a Studio 54 atmosphere, the elegance and grit of Bob Fosse and Paris Is Burning, with the stylish edge of classic Fellini—a perfect companion to the song’s hypnotic synth-funk groove.

The rock legend recruited an all-star technical crew for the project, including director of photography Nicolas Loir (The Weeknd, The Blaze, Chloé, Louis Vuitton, YSL) and a cast highlighted by actor-model Alton Mason (who played Little Richard in Baz Luhrmann’s 2022 Elvis biopic) and the brilliant young artist Le Diouck.

Along with releasing the video, Kravitz today kicks off a new remix series for “Let It Ride.” The first installment is a new version from popular Welsh DJ Jamie Jones, who adds his distinctive deep-house grooves to the song’s unrelenting dancefloor vibe and falsetto hooks. LISTEN HERE. Subsequent remixes will include a high HRG disco take by renowned French DJ-producer Kungs (April 18), followed by the package Let It Ride Remixes Pt. 1 (April 25) and Pt. 2 (May 16) featuring reworks from a global cadre of influential remix producers such as Solardo, HoneyLuv, Wongo, DJ Spinna and Ultra Naté.

“Let It Ride” originally appeared on Kravitz’s critically acclaimed 12th LP (and first in six years), 2024’s Blue Electric Light. The album, featuring a quartet of genre-spanning singles (“TK421,” “Human,” “Paralyzed,” and “Honey”), earned some of the musician’s most glowing reviews to date, with the Associated Press hailing it as “a testament to his status as one of the last remaining true rock stars” and NPR calling it “a kaleidoscope of soaring rock, psychedelic funk, gentle soul and more.”

Kravitz continues to promote the album on tour, with dates scheduled through the fall. After a run of stadium and arena dates throughout South America and Europe, he will launch the first leg of his North American run on May 2 at the Beachlife Festival in Redondo Beach, Calif, followed by a return to Las Vegas with his exclusive Las Vegas engagement, Blue Electric Light Las Vegas, at Dolby Live at Park MGM. Kravitz most recently performed at Park MGM this past October with a series of five sold-out shows. The latest five-show run will take place August 1, 2, 6, 8 and 9, 2025. Further ticketing details can be found at https://lennykravitz.com/tour/.

44. Sexxy Red – Hoochie Coochie

Brashly boasting of her baddie status, Sexyy Red never minces words. Settling the “ratchet vs. classy” debate once and for all, Sexyy gives it up for the “Hoochie Coochie” in her new single. Stacking energetic ad-libs and unleashing an intense new delivery, Sexyy slices through producer Mac Fly’s arpeggiating keyboards, taking aim at lames and proclaiming her sexual supremacy: “F*ck them lame b*tches, ratchet b*tches better/Real h*es, we don’t get cold I’m fly in any weather/Wintertime, I’m rocking booty shorts, b*tch f*ck a sweater,” she spits. In the video, arriving later today on Sexyy Red’s YouTube channel, Sexyy gets raw like sushi, dancing on the table at a Japanese restaurant and putting herself on the menu next to the omakase.

“Hoochie Coochie” arrives as Sexyy prepares to heat up for yet another Sexyy Summer. It quickly follows, “YN,” a new collaboration that originated on stream with PlaqueBoyMax, gathering three of the underground’s hottest emcees–Chicago’s BabyChiefDoit, and Atlanta’s Lazer Dim 700 and Baby Kia–to compete for her affections. Earlier in the year, Sexyy made a splash with “Fat, Juicy & Wet,” her all-star collaboration with Bruno Mars. With a music video that featured guest appearances from Lady Gaga and LISA, the hitmaking odd couple made a splash, debuting at #17 on the Billboard Hot 100. To date, “Fat, Juicy, & Wet” has racked up hundreds of millions of streams across platforms, including 34 million views on the YouTube video.

Sexyy is working hard on the follow-up to 2024’s hit mixtape In Sexyy We Trust, looking to build upon a year that featured her career highlight singles “Get It Sexyy,” “U My Everything,” and “Rich Baby Daddy.” Stay tuned for much more from the Northside St. Louis princess very soon.

45. LG Malique – Carved In Gold

Today, bracingly honest and deeply expressive artist LG Malique shares his Carved In Gold mixtape. The new set serves up eight melodic songs as emotional as they are inspirational. Listen HERE via Warner Records.

Rooted in Malique’s “Living Gold” ethos — a mindset of unwavering positivity and resilience — Carved in Gold is a testament to enduring life’s pressures and emerging stronger, just like gold refined under fire. Over the project’s tracks, he looks at his past with the wisdom of the present and at his future with clear-eyed hope. Aided by a voice tailor-made to convey emotion, he takes listeners on a journey through relatable struggles, hard-won success, and incredible grace.

The standout track “Explaining How It Is” drops us right into the struggle with a transmission from the trenches by Jacksonville rapper Yungeen Ace. Pensive piano, humming organ, and heavy bass set the mood, while Malique projects a cinematic scene: “You put my family in the mix, it’s guaranteed some getting dropped / Final warning, please don’t try me ’cause you know that’s all I got / And I don’t like promoting violence, but I’m prepared for any block / Your environment can turn you into somebody you’re not.” He and Ace explore the scenario from different angles.

“This song is raw, unfiltered truth, no sugarcoating,” says Malique of “Explaining How It Is.” “Growing up in an environment where you always have to be ready changes you, and I’ve seen it happen too many times. Loyalty means everything, especially when it comes to family, and I’ve lost too much to play games. Even with success, I stay focused because I know how fast it can all disappear. This isn’t just music for me; it’s survival, therapy, and breaking the cycle.”

Last month, he released Carved In Gold single “Give It to God,” a gripping song that sees Malique lay it all bare, from childhood challenges to unthinkable loss to unshakeable faith. His signature melodic flow cuts deep there and throughout the new mixtape, which follows his 2024 breakout Living Gold EP, featuring his viral, deeply affecting rework of Lukas Graham’s “Seven Years” (18.4+ million streams). Praised by Wonderland, The Knockturnal, Earmilk, Notion, and more, Malique is fast cementing his place among rap’s new generation of storytellers. He was also recently dubbed an “Artist to Watch” and interviewed by T he Atlanta-Journal Constitution.

With Carved In Gold, the breakout star continues to elevate his artistry, sharing his inspiring journey thus far while proving that we’re only at the beginning of the full story he has to tell.

46. 1nonly – STARDUST

Today, rising Las Vegas rapper and producer 1nonly hits listeners with “STARDUST,” his new single that mixes ethereal production with his signature effortlessly rapid-fire vocal delivery. The track comes with a radiant video shot in Tokyo at night, full of automotive eye candy. Listen HERE and watch HERE via Warner Records.

“STARDUST” captures 1nonly in his element, putting his heavy growl to work over a bounding matrix of chopped and slowed dance music, staccato vocals and drums, and exploding waves of bass and synth. His bars swirl up intoxication with self-determination as he blurs out the rest of the world to focus on himself: “I know it’s hard but this time I can’t lose / You done changed up, my bank done changed too / I’m smoking stardust, I can see you straight through.”

The nocturnal “STARDUST” music video drops 1nonly into Tokyo — a land of glowing signs, high-rise views, and slick cars with see-through hoods. At times, he’s swerving through the city. At others, the city seems to zoom around him. Amid the hallucinatory scenery, 1nonly sees things others don’t: flames, smoke, falling signage, crumbling bricks.

The new song and video continue a powerful run of impactful tracks for 1nonly. Most recent was January’s menacing and magnetic “STRAIGHT 2 IT,” which came with a wild animated video starring a car-driving, cigarette-smoking rat who forms an impromptu posse with a hitchhiking masked slasher and a flesh-eating zombie. Before that came boundary-pushing tracks like “VICODIN,” “WHAT YOU WANT,” and “Falling” — each with a gripping visual of its own.

Fans have been watching 1nonly’s every move since his late 2022 debut EP Homesick, which included the singles “Mine” and “Step Back!” featuring New Zealand rapper SXMPRA. He has since teamed with Freddie Dredd for “POPTHATRUNK” and Jasiah on “GHOSTKILLA,” but 1nonly is an unmistakable presence wherever he goes. Sidestepping convention in favor of dynamic, genre-defying music has set him apart from the pack from the starting line, and with “STARDUST” he continues down that one-of-one lane — follow along as he picks up speed.

47. Casper Sage – SAGEhaven

Named one of Complex’s “15 New R&B Artists to Watch in 2025,” Casper Sage crafts music that’s both soothing and stirring, drawing comparisons to Blonde-era Frank Ocean. The Nashville-based alt-R&B artist, producer, and multi-instrumentalist calls his sound Afro-Surrealist Dreamcore—a space where nostalgia, introspection, and lush, propulsive production collide. “I want it to feel like you’re floating,” he says, striking a balance between relaxation and stimulation. His new EP SAGEhaven, featuring genre upstarts midwxst and amindi, is now here. Alongside the release comes the visual for “Roadrunner,” an artistic black-and-white film that heightens the song’s themes of movement and escape. Moody and striking, the video distills his distinct aesthetic into a cinematic experience.

48. Kill Dyll – THE COST

Today, genre-upending artist Kill Dyll releases new single “THE COST,” a brimstone-reeking descent into disconnection that mixes grunge guitar, heavy bass, and hypnotic vocals. Listen HERE and watch the visualizer HERE via Second Estate/Warner Records.

“THE COST” finds Kill Dyll in a heavy mood over darkly bent guitar and grave-shaking low end. His voice is a cold and ragged chant over a blasted soundscape as he assesses the state of someone close to him. His baritone becomes hissing steam for the searing hook: “I watched you become something I don’t recognize / Soul turned into rot, I’ma have to sever ties.”

The new cut follows last month’s surprise release “START TO BLEED,” which effectively kicked off the Denver-bred vocalist/producer’s new era. Over a wall of shoegazing guitar and distorted beats, Kill Dyll captured the existential crush of our exact moment in history while channeling the gnarled angst of ’90s rock and the unrestrained creative burst of 2010s emo-rap.

Kill Dyll opened 2025 with his headlining U.S. Holy Trinity Tour, and has since been sharing snippets of new music direct to fans on his social media channels. Longtime followers have had the opportunity to witness the DIY-minded artist evolve his vision across projects, continuously challenging himself to push the boundaries of his music while exploring new ways to let loose raw emotion and provide musical relief to listeners working through dark feelings of their own.

With “THE COST,” Kill Dyll brings us even deeper into his heavy yet cathartic world.

49. GIGI – Waves Of It

GIGI, the rising R&B powerhouse, brings the essence of ‘90s and early ‘00s R&B into the modern era as she officially releases her highly anticipated debut EP, Waves of it, via Marki Records/Warner Records. The five-track project showcases GIGI’s signature blend of raw emotion, silky vocals, and timeless storytelling, cementing her as a fresh yet nostalgic force in today’s R&B landscape. Listen to Waves of it HERE. Watch the “Tidal Wave” video HERE.

Building momentum with her previous singles, “My Muse,” a love-drenched ballad exploring the feeling of being truly seen and cherished, “Fumbled Me,” a heartfelt reflection on love lost, and “Diamonds Dancing,” a self-assured anthem of resilience, GIGI now unveils two new singles:

“Reacquainted” is a bold and unapologetic anthem about setting boundaries and refusing to rekindle a past relationship that no longer serves GIGI. With sharp lyrics and a smooth yet assertive delivery, the song captures the frustration of an ex who won’t take the hint, making it clear that moving on is the only option.
“Tidal Wave” captures the overwhelming and unpredictable nature of love, comparing it to a powerful force that pulls GIGI in despite her attempts to navigate it. With haunting melodies and heartfelt lyrics, the song explores the push and pull of desire, vulnerability, and the longing to hold onto something real before it slips away.

GIGI shares, “The inspiration behind this EP is walking the listeners through the different feels of being in a relationship — the highs, lows & everything in between.”

With her ability to weave emotion into every note, GIGI is carving out a lane of her own in contemporary R&B. Waves of it is a soul-stirring journey through love, growth, and self-discovery, blending classic influences with a fresh perspective. Her music has already garnered attention from major platforms such as Billboard, VIBE, and BET, positioning her as one of the most exciting voices in the genre today.

50. Lydia Night – Pity Party

Today, Lydia Night shares her new song “Pity Party,” her debut solo work via Warner Records. The song, from the former frontwoman of Los Angeles band The Regrettes, embraces an unabashed pop sound, examining the genre and retaining the confessional and cathartic songwriting. “Pity Party” offers a whirlwind glimpse at all the drama and havoc unfolding in her mind (imposter syndrome, existential dread, anticipatory grief, etc.), brilliantly twisting that outpouring into an electrifying anthem.

Lydia Night today also shares the music video for “Pity Party,” which she co-directed with Ramisha Sattar. Watch the music video for “Pity Party” HERE.

Night shares about the song, “Stepping outside of the band on my own was spooky and felt like a huge risk but one that I was ready to make. I am so excited to share this world I’ve built with you all and “Pity Party” feels like the perfect entry point. For this song, I’m reflecting on my occasional need for attention and validation, rather than trusting my own perspective, which can leave me feeling all over the place emotionally. I wanted to almost poke fun at myself by turning my emotional chaos into an exaggerated pity party, where everyone is invited to feel sorry for me. I think there is a lot of humor and absurdity in the way we deal with dark feelings and for me, part of self-acceptance involves embracing the mess and laughing at it. Life often feels like a performance, so why not make a show of it and own the spectacle?”

“Pity Party,” was produced by Alexis Kesselman (a New York City-based producer/songwriter whose credits include Suki Waterhouse and Joji) and came to life at Kesselman’s studio in her Hell’s Kitchen apartment. “I’d never worked with a female producer before, and it was game-changing for me,” Night says, “I felt a level of safety and comfort that allowed me to be my most authentic self.”

51. Crash Adams – Karaoke

Poised for a breakthrough year, Juno Award-nominated feel-good duo Crash Adams return with energetic pop anthem “Karaoke” out now via Warner Records / WM Canada. As their first release of 2025, it has all the makings of a major smash for the pair—aka Rafaele Massarelli and Vince Sasso—and affirms their “Artist To Watch” status.

Listen HERE and watch the accompanying music video HERE.

“Karaoke” shuffles straight to the center of the dancefloor. A thick bassline thumps in between handclaps decked out in glittery disco vibes. Funky guitar underlines the immediately irresistible refrain as the guys issue a cheeky invitation, “Let’s do karaoke on the west side. I want to hit every note with you.” It climaxes with an impossible-to-shake chant.

Meanwhile, the accompanying visual is every bit as vibrant and vital as the track itself. “Karaoke” lives up to its name, and you’ll definitely be singing along with Crash Adams! Watch the official music video HERE.

About the single, the band shared, “At its core, ‘Karaoke’ is about letting go and having fun, but as we wrote it, we realized it also reflects the chemistry between two people. Singing together—hitting the highs and lows—became a metaphor for connection—how music pulls people together and creates moments you don’t want to end.”

With the release of their debut EP Crashing Into Your Living Room, Vol. 1, the band continued to reach new heights, amassing more than 10 million YouTube subscribers and 1.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone. The pop hitmakers have captivated fans around the globe – touring across North America, Dubai, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines – while being named one of the top artists on TikTok Canada (2023) and earning a Juno Nomination for Breakthrough Group of the Year (2024).

Crash Adams’ music has the same kind of mood-lifting power as a hit of pure dopamine. Their cinematic, larger-than-life songs relay a potent, effective mix of adrenaline, nostalgia, and hard-earned gratitude. The duo have an impressive knack for storytelling, citing art-pop acts like The 1975 and country music acts like Dan + Shay as their inspiration for writing tracks that tug at listeners’ heart strings and remind them how beautiful daily experiences can be, given the right framing.

Rod Wave, Sexyy Red, Veeze & Lil Yachty Highlight This Week’s New Music Roundup was originally published on globalgrind.com