Fresh Picks
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It’s Monday and we’re back again. For this week’s Fresh Picks, we’re feeling the sunshine and rounded up the latest heat to soundtrack your next seven days (and beyond) from emerging R&B and hip-hop artists.
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From newcomers like 2Rare and Luh Tyler to buzzing names like Kiana Lede and A$AP Twelvyy, there’s a little something here for every pair of listening ears. And as always, don’t forget to share the wealth with our Spotify playlist, linked below.
Freshest Find: Olivia Dean, “Dive”
Captivating listeners by way of her buttery voice and relatable words, Olivia Dean has us all ready to dive (into her catalog). The London singer-songwriter fuses R&B melodies and instrumentation into an undeniably feel-good pop cut, just in time for a summer full of love. The inclusion of a hip-hop drum pattern, thick harmonies and brass instruments bring to mind fellow U.K. singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse, while the approach to songwriting is entirely her own.
Price & Sage the Gemini, “Foo”
“Foo” is the latest track in Price’s “saggin’ and braggin’ campaign,” where he drops a new single or visual at least once a month. The high energy track features Sage the Gemini as the two rap about people acting a fool in the best and worst ways.
2Rare, “Rare Steppa”
2Rare is a self-proclaimed rare stepper and trendsetter. This up-tempo song from the Philly rapper is perfect for the club or summer block parties, as he carves a lane for himself in the Philly club music scene.
Blanco, “Londis”
Between woozy bass kicks, languid piano keys and strings, U.K. rapper Blanco is paying homage to his local convenience store. “I was inspired to write a song about Londis a couple of months before I made the song. It came to me as I was driving past [it] — it’s not any Londis, just a particular one in my community where we’ve known the shopkeeper for ten plus years. And we’ve shot some iconic videos outside of the shop, so it just made sense,” he told Billboard.
Luh Tyler, “You Was Laughing”
Luh Tyler has a lot to celebrate. The 17-year-old just signed a new deal with Atlantic and released his debut mixtape My Vision. “This project represents my vision of me seeing myself at the top,” he shares in a press release. Standout track “You Was Laughing” is the pensive closer to the mixtape and sees Tyler rapping about his newfound, budding fame. “I been feeling like a king, but I don’t play for Sacramento/ I wasn’t tryna rap forreal, I did that s–t on accidental,” he raps.
Q, “Not Alone”
With its funk undertones and electronic synths, Q’s “Not Alone” sounds straight out of the ’80s. The new offering from Q Marsden further cements him as an old soul and R&B/funk force to be reckoned with. On “Not Alone,” he’s almost literally painting the town red as the song’s visualizer shows him painting a canvas red.
Kiana Ledé feat. Ella Mai, “Jealous”
It might be Kiana’s birthday, but we’re the ones getting a gift. The aries singer teamed up with fellow R&B favorite from across the pond, Ella Mai, on her latest offering, “Jealous.” To the sounds of gentle acoustic guitar and crisp percussion, the 26-year-old Phoenix native admits to carrying less-than-desirable feelings about a sometimes-lover.
A$AP Twelvyy feat. Roc Marciano, “Adventure Time”
A$AP Mob artist A$AP Twelvyy is staying true to his crew’s brand of quality releases. The New York City rapper (who seldom disappoints) joins forces with underground legend Roc Marciano on the dreamy “Adventure Time.” The duo tackle their past and present here, as a silky sample loops in the background.
Lloyiso, “Give a Little Kindness”
Lloyiso is urging listeners to take a little time, get a little therapy and “give a little kindness to yourself.” The needed reminder is well-received, thanks to the South African singer’s compelling tone and catchy melodies. “Give A Little Kindness” is a cut from Lloyiso’s debut EP, Seasons, via Universal Music Group South Africa/Republic Records.
Lehla Samia, “Care”
CMG’s first lady of song is back with a poignant ballad, “Care.” Overtop glittery piano and wind chimes, the Delaware singer (discovered by way of TikTok) takes accountability for ignoring red flags, and asks the pressing questions she already knows the answer to: “Do you even care?”
March is coming to an end, and with it comes another installment of our Afrobeats Fresh Picks column, an endeavor that is heating up along with the weather.
At this point in the year, a quarter of the way through, there are already a handful of contenders for songs that will define the summer and carry us through all of 2023. But there’s also still plenty of room to pad out those playlists and a lot more music coming down the pipeline — including full albums from many of the artists who have been steadily building through singles in the first few months of this year.
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The stars have been shining brighter together lately, from Major Lazer and Major League Djz‘s international alliance to the electric duo of Adekunle Gold and Zinoleesky to the triple team up of Tiwa Savage, Ayra Starr and Young Jonn — in fact, this month’s edition features half collaborations and half solo tracks. Even songs we’ve previously featured, Libianca‘s “People” and Victony and Tempoe‘s “Soweto,” have added illustrious guests to new versions of their original tracks: Ayra Starr and Omah Lay on the former as well as Don Toliver and Rema on the latter. But there are plenty of solo gems from the likes of Amaarae, Bella Shmurda and Lil Kesh on the playlist, too, with plenty more deserving tracks just missing the cut.
Here, we’ve highlighted 10 of our favorite new Afrobeats (and related) songs that have come out roughly within the last month. Check out our latest Fresh Picks, and cue up our Spotify playlist below as you’re reading along.
Adekunle Gold feat. Zinoleesky, “Party No Dey Stop”
Adekunle Gold makes sure the “Party No Dey Stop” in his new up-tempo, Afropop single, which also marks his debut under Def Jam Recordings. Apart from his new major label deal, AG Baby flexes his co-sign from Oluwa (which means God in Yoruba) and his riches on the vivacious beat, co-produced by Kel-P and Monro, which ensures the vibes are not just immaculate but also eternal. He reflects on relying on God’s grace and having a good time alongside his fellow Agege native Zinoleesky, who’s featured on the track. “The world should be expecting madness from that guy – he’s so good,” Gold recently told Billboard. “I reached out to him, and then we got in the studio. In a matter of hours, we wrote his verse together and it was a banger.”
JayO, “22”
Rising North London-born, Nigerian singer JayO is the ultimate charmer in his sensual single “22,” which has an all-too-fitting Feb. 22 official release date. While scintillating snippets had been swarming TikTok before then – with “22” garnering almost 300,000 user-generated videos to date on the platform – the full 2-minute, 22-second single captures JayO’s explicit desires with a girl who’s (you guessed it) 22 years old and “too hot to handle,” as he croons over the lush R&B piano loop and sizzling percussion. While JayO can’t keep his hands off this girl, our ears can’t get enough of this song.
Amaarae, “Reckless & Sweet”
Amaarae delivers a “Reckless and Sweet” yet slightly savage offering from her forthcoming sophomore album Fountain Baby. The Ghanaian Afropop singer draws in (and calls out) her money-hungry admirer with the siren-like hook “Call me when the money come, come, come, come, come/ To the money I’ma run, run, run, run, run,” which sounds just as mesmerizing and attractive as Amaarae’s spending habits. Nothing less is expected from the “SAD GIRLZ LUV MONEY” hitmaker, whose irresistible swagger can be found in the latest Mugler x H&M campaign or front row during Milan Fashion Week as she also builds up her name in the neighboring fashion world, where she can further relish in opulence.
Tay Iwar, “Healing”
Nigerian alté singer Tay Iwar provides himself with a musical antidote from a previous, harmful relationship on “Healing,” his first single of 2023. His hypnotizing, digitized “healing from your stress” hook floats above a bubbling percussive pattern that can wash anyone’s worries away with the simple press of the play button. But for Iwar himself, his healing journey doesn’t just involve uncomfortable revelations as to what went wrong, but also “[killing] all of my worries with champagne.” After being featured on “True Love” from Wizkid’s critically acclaimed Made in Lagos and co-writing/co-producing Burna Boy’s standout “Alone” from the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, Iwar continues to show his fans that he can lend his talents to the biggest stars while also being a star in his own right.
Major Lazer & Major League Djz feat. Brenda Fassie, “Mamgobhozi”
American EDM DJ trio Major Lazer and African DJ/producer duo Major League Djz join forces on their new amapiano album, Piano Republik. On the single “Mamgobhozi,” the late Queen of African Pop Brenda Fassie’s vocals come to life, via a sample of her 1997 hit “Vuli Ndlela,” adding an honorable touch to a project dedicated to celebrating the amapiano sound traveling across the globe from its native South African townships. “Brenda Fassie was not only an icon, but she inspired many Black South Africans to be their authentic selves,” Major League Djz say in a press statement. “’Vuli Ndlela’ is undoubtedly one of Brenda Fassie’s best bodies of work, holding the title of ‘Song of the Decade,’ and a song we heard playing at every South African wedding and home then and now … Her music catalog speaks for her long after she has left us, a true force.”
Tiwa Savage, Ayra Starr & Young Jonn, “Stamina”
Young Jonn has been on a hell of a run with his singles of late — see “Mood” and “Currency” previously — and this track sees him sandwiched in between two fantastic singers from two different generations in Tiwa Savage and Ayra Starr. Those two have been on hot streaks of their own lately — witness Tiwa on the “Who Is Your Guy?” remix with Spyro and duetting with Asake on “Loaded” earlier this year, while Starr has one of the biggest songs out in “Rush” and another one growing in prominence with “Sability.” Is that enough reason to listen to this? If not, take our word for it: It’s great. Treat yourself.
Bella Shmurda, “Ara (Gen Gen Tin)”
Almost ominous in its opening notes, the latest single from Bella Shmurda quickly opens up (through the production of Larry Lanes) into one of the most infectious hooks of the year so far, propelled by its call and response. And, yes, there’s a dance challenge, so go check that out too. And while we’re here, check out that new track he dropped with Nasty C, the “Philo” remix — but good luck getting “Ara” out of your head first.
Khaid & Boy Spyce, “Carry Me Go”
Last month we included Khaid’s sweet ode “Jolie” on our playlist, and this month we’ve got another one from the young Nigerian singer with an innate knack for melody and inviting hooks. Here, the collaboration with Boy Spyce somehow turns those melodies up a notch, with the track steadily building and layering into a full-on choir production, taking the song into the stratosphere.
Jaido P & Fireboy DML, “One of a Kind”
Fireboy dropped a pair of red-hot features this month, between this one and Peruzzi’s “Pressure,” but there’s something about the melding of his voice with the more streetwise rapping of Jaido P, each of them switching back and forth between Yoruba and English, that sets this one apart from the rest of what’s coming out right now. You could easily see this one going off in the U.K. at the drop of a hat.
Lil Kesh, “Good Bad Boy”
As mentioned in a previous column, Lil Kesh had one of the hands-down best songs of 2022 with “Don’t Call Me,” alongside Zinoleesky. “Good Bad Boy” has a completely different feel, incorporating horns and a back-and-forth bridge supported by rapped verses that pile on top of one another, creating an energy that propels the track forward. Kesh is one of the more elastic vocalists around right now, mixing in all kinds of styles, melodies and flows — sometimes even into the same line of a verse — and that’s all on display here.
With the spring season set in motion, no time is better for some introspective work. Let sounds by West coast rapper Navy Blue, “Brooklyn soulstress” Nia Sultana and U.K. singer-songwriter Yazmin Lacey be your guide, while also letting loose to energizing cuts from FLO and Big Boss Vette.
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Feel free to share the wealth with a friend, using our Spotify playlist linked below.
Freshest Find: FLO feat. Missy Elliott, “Fly Girl”
U.K. R&B trio FLO are setting the standards for what it means to be a fly girl. “If you a fly girl, get your nails done, get a pedicure, get your hair did/ See, you telling me I’m pretty but it’s obvious/ I don’t need a man to tell me where the party is,” they harmonize on their Missy Elliott-assisted new single. Billboard’s March R&B/Hip-Hop Rookie of the Month, the girl group is channeling ‘90s and ‘00s R&B, and with “Fly Girl,” they arguably have song of the summer contender on their hands.
Navy Blue, “The One”
Rapper Navy Blue melds together jazzy influences, west coast sonics and introspective words into a noteworthy major label debut. On his new album Ways of Knowing, Navy Blue taps into his spirit, peeling back the layers of trauma and hurt to uncover inner consciousness throughout the joyous and the mundane, namely on “The One.” “I want to make something that makes people smile out of joy, rather than smile in grief,” he says in a press release.
Yazmin Lacey, “Fool’s Gold”
Press play on Voice Notes and simply close your eyes, Yazmin Lacey will do the rest. On her debut album, the U.K. songstress’s soulful voice is transportive, atop a bed of neo-soul perfection. Lacey says that “Fool’s Gold” was born from a jam session and inspired by a conversation with a stranger on the bus. As hand drums pulsate around her dancing melodies, the East Londoner sings of someone on a dead-end mission.
Montell Fish, “2 seater”
Shape-shifting singer/songwriter/producer Montell Fish is back with another unexpected-yet-welcomed single, “2 seater.” Fish’s rap-like cadence coupled with gentle guitar and piano melodies are offset by abrasive synths, making for a pleasing marriage of hard and soft, a worthy symbol of the multifaceted artist himself.
Amaria, “Secrets”
“Where’s your love when I need it?” It’s a fair question that many of us have left unspoken, but Amaria isn’t shy to say exactly what’s on her mind. With a tone that can only be described as silky, the 22-year-old Tampa crooner repeats the mantra, “secrets never help,” as a bass guitar and Rhodes piano dance hand-in-hand in the background.
Big Boss Vette, “Problem”
St. Louis newcomer Big Boss Vette is wasting no time. After the TikTok-assisted success of “Pretty Girls Walk,” the hard-hitting rapper is back with “Problem.” Donning a charming-yet-deceiving smile on her face, Vette warns, “B—h, I’m a problem/ quick to tell a h-e to come solve it.”
Rimon feat. Rini, “I Choose U”
Rimon and Rini’s “I Choose U” is the ultimate love song. As its title suggests, the ballad reflects the thrill of choosing and feeling chosen by one’s lover. The accompanying video captures innocent moments of Rimon and her person and various other couples, as they stroll around NYC showing each other affection.
Victoria Monét feat. Lucky Daye, “Smoke”
Victoria Monét season is upon us. The singer teamed up with Lucky Daye for “Smoke,” the hazy and soulful first single off of her upcoming new project Jaguar II. In the visual, the smoke references are abundant, along with a reprise featuring Monét pole-dancing at the end.
Nia Sultana, “Some Feelings Never Go Away”
Nia Sultana is elevating her songwriting and incorporating women empowerment in her love songs. With “Some Feelings Never Go Away,” the Brooklyn singer-songwriter is acknowledging her emotions, but also choosing herself first and moving on from her past lover.
Destin Conrad, “Switch”
With its sensual vocals and rhythmic drum kicks, Destin Conrad’s “Switch” will likely be the soundtrack to summer parties. At a little under two minutes long, the song is the perfect length for a quick dance with your lover or one-time fling. Elite waistlines only.
Spring has officially sprung! As temperatures heat up, so does the music, and we’re here to save you the sifting, by hand-picking the hottest tracks by up-and-coming R&B/hip-hop artists. This week, we’ve highlighted an array of easy listening from Lo Village and Veeze to Ric Wilson, 6lack and more.
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Freshest Find: Ric Wilson, Chromeo & A-Trak, “Clusterfunk”
Ric Wilson, Chromeo, & A-Trak have joined forces for the uber-wavy collaborative project, CLUSTERFUNK. Ahead of the nine-track set arriving March 31 via EMPIRE, the trio released the tantalizing single “Clusterfunk.” On it, Wilson delivers a number of unique flows, effortlessly melding the old and the new in a sonic ode to his hometown of Chicago.
Lo Village, “On Your Way”
After years of healing and growing, Maryland trio Lo Village has returned with “On Your Way.” For the group, the robust single “exists as a reminder that the journey doesn’t begin until you look within and bet on yourself. You will run in circles until this is understood,” the group says in a statement.
BLK ODYSSY feat. Bootsy Collins, “Honeysuckle Neckbone”
“Honeysuckle Neckbone” tells the story of a remorseful man who has lost his first love. The recurring phrase “sweet like candy“ references the intimate, addicting times the lovers shared, but also the bittersweet taste candy leaves when over-indulging. BLK ODYSSY linked with bassist Bootsy Collins to capture his ability to fuse jazz instrumentation with R&B/hip-hop melodies.
Veeze, “GOMD”
“If I had a dollar for every time these n—as hate, I’d be rich like Jay and Ye,” Veeze opens on his new single “GOMD.” The Detroit rapper declares that he “got rich with Babyface [Ray]” as the two came up “making plays.” On “GOMD,” Veeze expands on his calculated wordplay using woozy metaphors and similes to compare his success to that of other artists and public figures.
Rory feat. Jay Electronica and reggie, “Enough”
Rory recruits Jay Electronica and reggie for his new single, “Enough.” The single’s alt-soul rhythm is paired with a cinematic visual that sees Rory and his dog aimlessly roaming around a couple’s house. “Enough” is a single from his upcoming album, which he’s been curating for the last three years with new talent in the R&B space.
Ni’jah, “Agatha”
Donald Glover’s new thriller Swarm has been all the rage since premiering last Friday (March 17). Alongside the show, which stars actress Dominique Fishback, the creators also released a Swarm EP via RCA, featuring (of course) Childish Gambino, KIRBY and the series’ central fictional pop star, Ni’jah. “Agatha” is a bold rap anthem from Ni’jah, who is played by Nirine S. Brown.
Alex Vaughn & Ari Lennox, “Demon Time”
Alex Vaughn has quite the crew of homegirls. On her latest offering, HOMEGIRL PACK, she enlists R&B queens Ari Lennox, Summer Walker and Muni Long across three tracks. “Demon Time” proves to be a standout moment, as Lennox and Vaughn harmonize like honey, outlining their sexual conquests unapologetically.
Princess Nokia, “angels & demons”
On her latest break-up-centric EP i love you but this is goodbye, Princess Nokia goes the softer route — save for on “demons & angels.” “I would cover us in blood/ With a knife to a dove/ ‘Cause forever is my angle,” she yells passionately over the somber chorus.
6lack, “fatal attraction”
6lack has irresistible singles down to a science. On “fatal attraction,” the East Atlanta mainstay sticks to his foolproof formula, delivering vulnerable verses overtop romantic pianos and trap drums. The track arrives ahead of 6lack’s upcoming album, Since I Have A Lover, set to arrive March 24.
Amaarae, “Reckless & Sweet”
Amaarae is bringing all the sensual energy on “Reckless & Sweet.” The Ghanaian singer’s whispery tone pulls listeners in, while the delectable visual and body-swaying production keeps us all eyes and ears for the two-and-a-half-minute ride.
Another Monday, another round-up of the freshest picks of the week. From smooth, late-night R&B to upbeat, 808-filled rap anthems, this list is bound to have a track suitable for every moment of the next seven days.
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This week, listen to the sounds of Lola Brooke, Navy Blue, Venna, Deb Fan and more. And of course, don’t forget to share the wealth with our Spotify playlist, linked below.
Freshest Find: Khamari, “On My Way”
On “On My Way,” Boston singer Khamari details his journey to new beginnings. The tender new song is dedicated to the musician’s cross country move to Los Angeles, which he made during the pandemic. “I packed everything I owned into my car and drove across the country,” he says in a press statement. “‘On My Way’ is a song about my move, my confidence in knowing I was making the right decision starting fresh so I could build something from the ground up.”
Navy Blue, “Chosen”
“Chosen” is Navy Blue’s poetic major label debut. The L.A. rapper raps about being “overseas with Mr. Dave Chappelle and brother Yasiin [Bey] in Paris” and his journey on the way to turning 30. The Def Jam signee delivers the boom-bap track ahead of his forthcoming project due out later this year.
Lola Brooke, “So Disrespectful”
Brooklyn’s own Lola Brooke is no one to play with. The fast-rising rapper delivered a grim new track called “So Disrespectful” where she brings her signature big gator energy. Once again, Brooke shows off her booming voice over bass-knocking production for her first release since signing to Arista Records.
Neru Thee Fourth Fugee feat. BbyMutha, “End Daze”
Baltimore meets Atlanta as Neru Thee Fourth Fugee and bbymutha link for their new single “End Daze.” The track sees two women rap powerhouses tag-teaming as they share confident bars and infectious wordplay. “The song was inspired by MF Doom and Vince Staples, while the title itself is a double entendre on ‘end days,’ referencing a catastrophic end-of-the-world event, and ‘in daze’ connecting those moments when you find yourself lost inside your thoughts,” explains Neru in a press release. “End Daze” is a glimpse into her upcoming sophomore album Greater Than, set to be released this summer.
Connie Diiamond, “Move”
Connie Diiamond is a force to be reckoned with. With “Move,” the rapper added a Bronx spin to Ludacris’s 2002 hit “Move B–ch.” She originally performed the song on BlockWorktv a few months ago, though “Move” got its official release last week via Def Jam.
Hudi, “Top B–ch!“
It’s got a little bounce to it, and sometimes, that’s all you need. By way of Washington Heights, rapper Hudi revived this self-produced cut from four years ago with a new hook and verses, starting off strong with the smirk-inducing line, “I would really drop my weight to fight a bad b–ch battles.” And really, what more could you want?
Halima, “VEHICLE”
Halima’s latest offering, “VEHICLE,” is one of those cuts that gives listeners exactly what they want, when they want it. Starting off with a groovy Hush Forte-produced guitar loop, trap drum pattern and rap cadence, the Brooklyn-based artist flows seamlessly into a falsetto hook and alto second verse, transfixing listeners from the jump.
B. Cool-Aid feat. Liv.e, Jimetta Rose & V.C.R, “soundgood”
Ahead of their upcoming album Leather Blvd., B. Cool-Aid dropped single, “soundgood” and it sounds, well, you know. Perfectly composed for a slow Saturday driving up the PCH, the cut embodies laid back elevation, an indication of the utopian March 31 project to come from the dynamic Long Beach duo.
Deb Fan, “Run My Mind”
A perfect union of hard and soft, Deb Fan’s “Run My Mind” features the Hong Kong-made songstress’ silky vocals coupled with staticky drums and deep synths. On her first single of the year, Deb Fan ruminates over unrequited love, baring it all for the one who runs her mind.
Venna feat. JADA, “Tam Tam”
Venna has been on a roll. For the third single from his upcoming project EQUINOX, he enlisted singer JADA who delivers tantalizing vocals overtop the soulful instrumental. “My love don’t depend on/ If you ain’t hands on/ I would prefer you were straight up/ Turning friends into strangers,” she repeats amidst a waterfall of piano melodies.
Spring is upon us and the emerging and underground class of R&B and hip-hop acts have all the tunes you need to get ready for the fast-approaching equinox. From the moody sounds of Jordan Ward and 6lack to bouncy rap cuts from Pap Chanel and Young Nudy, our round-up is sure to have something for every music lover.
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Freshest Find: Jordan Ward, “Pricetag/Beverlywood”
Jordan Ward’s Lido-assisted song “Pricetag/Beverlywood” earns this week’s Freshest Find spot. The song is a standout track from his new album, Forward. Overtaken by moody chords, the first half of the song transports listeners as Ward sings, “That’s my currency, when you break down you often turn to me/ I been a–ed out in emergencies/ And never got the same from you or urgency.” The track then transitions into “Beverlywood,” an acoustic tale of hardship and growth referencing the time Ward was temporarily uprooted due to an emergency.
slowthai, “YUM”
On his latest project, UGLY, slowthai reveals to listeners the grueling life lessons he has come to learn with unapologetic vulnerability. The U.K. master storyteller is known to wield his power through gripping visuals and raw lyricism, with “YUM” proving to be no exception to the rule.
Elli Ingram feat. Mahalia, “Fool’s Gold”
Singer-songwriter Elli Ingram bares it all on her latest offering, “Fool’s Gold.” Assisted by fellow U.K. artist Mahalia, the Amy Winehouse-inspired vocalist tells her lover she’s fed up over a slow groove singing, “It don’t mean s–t/ If you don’t kiss my lips.”
6LACK, “Since I Have a Lover”
“This took longer than I promised,” opens 6lack on his latest release — a spoken word titled “A Letter to My Fans”– adding, “but some promises are meant to be broken.” After a five-year hiatus, the Atlanta hometown hero announced his upcoming album alongside the recited letter and title track single, “Since I Have a Lover.” The song is reflective of a new chapter for the critically acclaimed singer-rapper, as he free-falls through a gray and rainy sky into a dilapidated home. “Since I have a lover, no more lonely nights/ The type of love that you supply, can’t televise,” he declares overtop a breezy pop beat.
Shann Aberdeen, “Prayers 4 You”
Canadian singer Shann Aberdeen’s latest offering envelops listeners in warmth and care, the singer dedicating “Prayers 4 You” to “everyone who’s ever shared their love with me, and for those I’ve ever felt compelled to share mine with.” Aberdeen, who formerly sang back-up for artists including Daniel Caesar and Don Amero, shows undeniable vocal prowess on the irresistible and timeless R&B cut.
Pap Chanel, “Left, Right”
If you want to be pretty and paid, take a page out of Pap Chanel’s book. Luckily, the budding Atlanta rapper is handing out free game on her latest offering, “Left, Right.” The track carries a militant theme, as Pap Chanel lets it be known that she’s keeping everyone in line.
THEY. feat. Yung Bleu, “In the Mood”
Dante and Drew are a dynamic duo. The two paid homage to ‘aughts’00s-era R&B in the video for their new Yung Bleu-assisted single “In the Mood.” “We wanted to make something smooth that still had that knock to it, kinda like the uptempo joints that Donell Jones was known for back in the day,” the duo says in a press release. THEY. also announced the upcoming album Nü Moon is slated for release on April 7.
Avenoir, “Moral”
“Moral” is the latest addition to Canadian singer Avenoir’s catalog of druggy, tell-all ballads. The song is the new artist’s first release of the year, and he’s preparing to release his debut project in the near future.
Kenny Mason, “Avatar”
On his new EP 3, Kenny Mason gives us a glimpse into the new sounds he’s approaching. “Each song has an intentionally distinct sound to highlight a different concept,” he says in a press statement. “These are essentially my three favorite songs made after RUFFS. Enjoy :)” “Avatar” is the glitchy, hi-hat and bassline-driven rap offering from the EP’s trio of tracks.
Young Nudy, “Brussel Sprout”
“Brussel Sprout” is the bold new intro to Young Nudy’s new album Gumbo. The East Atlanta rapper has a knack for amusing song titles, and here he raps about — what else — making money.
It’s Monday and we’re back with the latest and greatest in emerging R&B and hip-hop. This week, we highlight heat by newcomers like Ayelle, Wes Denzel and rum•gold, as well as from more established names like Don Toliver and Meriba. And of course, don’t forget to share the wealth with our Spotify playlist, linked below.
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Freshest Find: Don Toliver, “Honeymoon”
The collab we never knew we needed? Don Toliver and Kaytranada. The duo — both savants in their own right — joined forces on Toliver’s latest album Love Sick, delivering an out-of-the-box deep cut that seeps with replay value. The pairing brings out under-explored sides of both artists, leaving fans begging for Toliver and Kaytra to book a few more studio sessions together.
Ayelle, “Sweet Spot”
Ayelle’s soft new single “Sweet Spot” is “on behalf of every woman who’s sexuality has been and/or continues to be suppressed.” The Swedish-Iranian singer celebrates female pleasure on the song, as she’s also using it to heal from her own traumas. “As a woman, I’ve had to work through a lot of trauma to reclaim my sexuality and my right to receive pleasure from sex,” she writes in a press release. “My hope is that more and more of us will heal and find joy and power in receiving pleasure.”
Uncommon People, “Had Enough”
Alt-R&B band Uncommon People is sick of routine. On their new single “Had Enough,” the group declares that they’re done with their monotonous lifestyle and are “ready to live the lives of true artists,” as they explain in a press release. The dance-R&B mix will appear on their upcoming project, Peace, I’m Out, which is due out April 6 and will be their final EP as a group.
Wes Denzel, “Some Know”
“Some Know” is Wes Denzel’s bouncy ode to Houston. The new song showcases the San Antonio-based rapper’s charismatic flow and witty rhymes and acts as the first glimpse into his upcoming EP Last Night in Houston. Denzel was inspired to create the project while driving around the Texas city. He also tested each version of the album in the car before landing on the perfect one. “A lot of writing in cars and experimenting on records with the format. A lot of it was just feeling and keeping that feeling,” he says about the process.
Jnr Choi, “Hate Me as You Love Me”
Jnr Choi seems to be no stranger to making hits. On his new drill-injected song “Hate Me As You Love Me,” the Gambian artist merges his smooth, melodic vocals with lyrics outlining the realities of an unconventional love story.
Enchanting feat. Layton Greene, “Tell Me Why”
1017’s Enchanting pairs up with Layton Greene for the extended version of “Tell Me Why.” Crippled by their beaus’ infidelities, the ladies are restive when spilling out their grievances. “Tell me why, oh why? Tell me why do n—as lie/ More than once or twice/ They can’t compromise,” sings Enchanting on the hook. “Tell Me Why” resides on Enchanting’s Luv Scarred / No Luv (Deluxe), including features by Jacquees, Seddy Hendrinx and more.
Jozzy, “Alone”
The Diddy signee and songwriter extraordinaire has dropped her debut EP, Songs for Women, Free Game for N—as on Love Records, featuring standout track, “Alone.” Co-directed by Mike Oberlies and Diddy himself, the visual shows Jozzy galavanting through Paris on her own, as a faraway lover questions her interest. “I don’t wanna be in this world alone/ I really need someone to call my own,” she croons overtop the R&B beat.
LAVI$H, “World in My Hands”
Exuding emotion through his poignant tone, Toronto singer LAVI$H reflects on love and life’s pressures on “World in My Hands.” The OVO signee doesn’t hold back, reaching for sky-high falsettos and showing off his vocal chops overtop a modern day D’Angelo-esque beat.
rum•gold feat. Mereba, “Water My Heart”
Emerging R&B is having quite the week. Atop an outpouring of tranquil piano melodies, Brooklyn-based rum•gold delivers “Water My Heart,” a single sure to cast away the Sunday scaries. The track is pure bliss, a Mereba feature tying together the perfectly transportive offering.
To kick off 2023, Billboard launched a new, monthly Afrobeats column to keep you up to speed with the fast-rising stars coming out of the African continent and soaring across the globe. Burna Boy, Tems and Rema performing at the 2023 NBA All-Star Game halftime show in Salt Lake City, Utah this past weekend is proof that African artists will only continue to expand beyond their borders and push beyond Afrobeats’ traditional boundaries — incorporating hip-hop, amapiano, R&B, jazz, soul and just about everything else into a melting pot that, for lack of a better overarching term, we’ll still refer to as Afrobeats.
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We’ve highlighted 10 of our favorite new Afrobeats (and related) songs that’ve come out within the last month. Love’s certainly in the air this season, from Pheelz’s feel-good, romantic jam “Pheelz Like Summer” to Khaid’s sweet ode “Jolie,” and decisions on what to include or not have been particularly tough — Rema, for example, just dropped two new tracks, though neither made the list here. Check out our Fresh Picks, and don’t forget to tap into our Spotify playlist below so you can catch a vibe with us.
Tyla, “Been Thinking”
Epic’s latest signee Tyla clearly has love on the brain, as evidenced by her latest single “Been Thinking.” The 21-year-old singer’s otherworldly pop and R&B sensibilities blend with her native South African amapiano in this slinky earworm that’ll have you wishing you were grinding on the love of your life in the middle of the dance floor before going home with them. “I’m just praying that [African music] keeps going the way it’s going. I feel like all eyes are on us right now,” Tyla told Billboard earlier at the Recording Academy Honors Black Music Collective event. “It’s a huge opportunity for us to now take it and run with it. We’ve been wanting this for a long time, so it’s about time.”
Pheelz, “Pheelz Like Summer”
Fresh off the success of his single “Finesse,” Pheelz delivers his Warner Records debut EP Pheelz Good, which is precisely how it makes you pheel. On the highlight track “Pheelz Like Summer,” the award-winning Nigerian producer-turned-singer gushes over a girl whose radiant smile makes him feel so warm inside that it reminds him of summer – even if it’s still only February. The sensual sax intro and buoyant beats evoke the warmer season, while Pheelz ushers in a season of love every time he coos, “Ooh-ooh-ooh/ Ooh-ooh-ooh, ooh-ooh.”
Stonebwoy, “More Of You”
Def Jam’s latest signee Stonebwoy begs his girl to give him “More of You” in his sultry latest single. The Ghanaian Afropop/reggae artist clearly can’t get enough of her, pleading with her to dance with him to a spellbinding rhythm – courtesy of Grammy-nominated producer Supa Dups – that we can’t get enough of. Ultimately, Stonebwoy becomes so mesmerized by her beauty in the animated visual that he succumbs to her like the Biblical forbidden fruit and ends up naked in a garden like Eden.
Tayc, “Success”
The Cameroonian-French crooner makes listeners swoon with dreamy scenarios and explicit rendezvous details that just roll off the tip of his French mother tongue with his latest album, ROOM 96. On the highlight “Success,” Tayc reflects on a woman who can’t handle his success and its side effects (like extra eyes on her), continuing to assuage her with sweet nothings that’ll make anyone’s ears tingle. Yet the ultra-sexy production of “Success” glosses over Tayc’s biting outro: “You’re just not ready for this, you should let me know/ ‘Cause, um, basically my life ain’t gonna change for you/ I, I love my life/ I love my place and I’m not gonna move anything for anybody.”
Michaël Brun feat. Oxlade, “Clueless”
Haitian DJ/producer Michaël Brun teams up with the “KU LO SA” Nigerian singer on the infectious Carribbean-Afro-fusion collaboration “Clueless.” Oxlade delivers a chant-worthy chorus with his enunciation of the track’s title, while he toys with the idea of loving a girl who’s equally his “antidote and poison” over Brun’s laidback beats. “Working with Oxlade was such an honor,” Brun says in a press release. “The operatic elements of his voice and the ways in which he uses harmonies and layers are what make Oxlade who he is — a true legend.”
Asake, “Yoga”
Asake has been on a heater for almost a year now, peaking with his debut album Mr. Money With the Vibe last September — and he hasn’t slowed down his output since, with “Yoga” his latest single to make waves. There’s a comfortable, soothing vibe to the track that comes across in his vocals and belies the lyrics, which stress the need to protect against things that will disrupt your peace — and the hook is a balm to alleviate such stresses. “Yoga” is the calm in the midst of a firestorm, a perfect song for imperfect times.
Khaid, “Jolie”
More than a simple love song, “Jolie” has melodies that pile on top of each other to get stuck in the mind and get stronger as the track goes on. Relatively new to the game — his first project of any kind was a six-song EP from last year, titled DIVERSITY — Khaid is still a teenager, and still developing as an artist, but “Jolie” shows there’s a lot of promise and talent that’s already there, with a world of possibility ahead of him.
Spinall feat. BNXN & Stefflon Don, “Oshey”
First things first — this DJ Spinall album has been spinning out phenomenal singles for about a year now, including his collaborations with Adekunle Gold (“Cloud 9”) and Asake (“Palazzo”), both of which initially came out last year. Now that the full project, titled Top Boy, was released Feb. 17, there’s more to dig into, with this collaboration with BNXN and Stefflon Don a particular highlight, showcasing all the different styles that weld together this diverse and compelling project. (But seriously, listen to “Cloud 9” and thank us later.)
BNXN, Kizz Daniel & Seyi Vibez, “GWAGWALADA”
A reference to an area of Nigeria, “GWAGWALADA” brings together three of the most intriguing Afrobeats artists from the country in BNXN, Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez, each bringing their distinctive vocals and styles to mesh seamlessly over the laid back, feel-good production by Sarz. BNXN has thrived in the last few years via collaborations with the likes of Wizkid, Burna Boy and Pheelz, and “GWAGWALADA” adds another flawless team-up to his growing discography.
Young Jonn feat. Olamide, “Currency”
Young Jonn has stepped beyond his producer title and has been dropping a series of infectious singles of late; “Xtra Cool,” released last October, probably should have been in this column last month, but “Currency” is another worthy entry. Longtime collaborator Olamide comes through to switch up the vibe, but it’s all additive, making this another insistent earworm of a record.
It’s Monday so you know what that means: new Fresh Picks! This week we’ve handpicked the sweetest releases from emerging R&B/hip-hop acts to fulfill your every need during this Valentine’s week.
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Whether you’re in love, scorned, or unbothered, tap into the best of this week’s releases, featuring artists like Rini, Baby Rose, Daniel Caesar, Kash Doll and more — and don’t forget to share the wealth with the Spotify playlist of this month’s picks below.
Freshest Find: Daniel Caesar, “Let Me Go”
Daniel Caesar is on a roll(out schedule). After releasing the pleading “Do You Like Me?” the Canadian alt-R&B crooner is back with another win, “Let Me Go,” presumably setting up an upcoming album. The track centers Caesar’s signature thick-layered harmonies and ever-present organs, reflective of his church upbringing. “Let Me Go” is an acceptance of defeat when it comes to love, a hard pill to swallow for everyone. Luckily for listeners, Caesar conveys the depleting pain of heartbreak with the utmost care, beauty and replay value.
Rini feat. Bibi Bourelly, “My Luv”
Rini drops off a sexy single in time for Valentine’s Day. “My Luv” is rooted in traditional R&B, built around a bluesy guitar and a warm bassline that sets the tone for an after-hours escapade. The song is the Filipino-Australian’s singer first song of the year.
Nnena, “Dayedreaming”
On “Dayedreaming,” Nnena has to go. The rising neo-soul singer samples Aretha Franklin’s 1972 song of the same name (styled “Day Dreaming”), singing about the cycles of love and ultimately concluding that self-love is the best type there is.
Baby Rose feat. Smino, “I Won’t Tell”
On “I Won’t Tell,” Baby Rose sounds like we’ve never heard her before. The singer-songwriter is playful and bold on the funky new track, an intentional move as she ushers in a new sonic era and celebrates her newfound sense of self. Rose tapped Smino for the song and also announced Through and Through will be released on Apr. 28. “‘I Won’t Tell’ is a fun record that came out of a sleepless night in L.A. jamming with friends,” she says in a press release. “When I began to write it out, I wanted to embrace my own chaos, my shadows. Then Smino slid into it effortlessly and that’s just what this song is, effortless.”
Central Cee, “Me and You”
Central Cee is no stranger to sampling past hits. The U.K. drill rapper surprise-dropped a new single called “Me and You” where he samples Donell Jones’s “Shorty (Got Her Eyes On Me).” Cench taps into his romantic side, rapping “your love is a contagious feeling” and “what’s mine is yours/ it’s not me, it’s us.”
Jordan Ward, “Cherimoya”
Jordan Ward likens his crush to a rare fruit on “Cherimoya.” A bonus track from his upcoming debut album FORWARD (out March 3), the acoustic song is a sweet ballad like its title suggests.
Babyface Ray feat. 42 Dugg, “Ron Artest”
“Live in the flesh, Ron Artest/ Counted me out, came back, I’m a champ,” raps Babyface Ray, paying homage to the basketball icon. The laid-back single is performed in true nonchalant Detroit fashion, but where the delivery is quiet, Ray and 42 Dugg’s confidence is loud. “4 Pockets Full and they ain’t CMG/ Put the music to the side, b—h, I’m signed to the streets,” declares Dugg atop the bouncy synth loop.
Saint Harison feat. Tiana Major9, “homies”
Shining a spotlight on U.K. artist Saint Harison’s rich tone, “homies” captures hearts both sonically and lyrically, as the singer-songwriter uncovers the story of a friendship that went too far. “I think we should’ve stayed homies/ Shoulda never let you in/ Now I’m in my feelings/ I really wanna go back to being just friends,” Harison belts. Joined by Tiana Major6, the pair captivatingly deliver the heartfelt regret of crossing a romantic line that leads to losing a friend.
Kash Doll feat. Peezy, “HEAVY”
At long last, she’s back. Detroit’s leading lady of rap, Kash Doll, delivers a heavy punch with the release of her latest album, BACK ON DEXTER: A GANGSTA GRILLZ MIXTAPE, following a four-year-long hiatus. While tracks like “OH BOY,” featuring a plethora of the city’s finest stand out, “HEAVY” takes a less-is-more approach, the new mom enlisting rising rapper Peezy. Sonically, the track is perfectly Detroit, as Kash taps into heavy braggadocio, rapping, “I just made a hundred chillin’ in the crib restin’/ If you can’t walk on water, you can’t do s–t to impress me.”
Lance Skiiiwalker, “Where to With You”
After seven years, avant-garde multi-hyphenate Lance Skiiiwalker returns with his latest album, Audiodidactic. The project is tailor-made to soundtrack a variety of experiences, drawing on environmental sounds and ambient elements that define the Chicago native’s eccentric sound. “Where to With You” combines elements of jazz, hip-hop and R&B, a perfect addition to any music lover’s playlist.
Happy Monday! Before we get lost in the whirlwind of Grammy Week, we’re here to highlight some of the best new music by emerging R&B/Hip-Hop artists from the past couple of weeks. Rap girlies like Gloss Up, Kari Faux and Flo Milli caught our ears this week along with smooth cuts by JGrrey and Maesu. Don’t forget to spread the wealth with our Spotify playlist, linked below.
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Freshest Find: Cordae feat. Anderson .Paak, “Two Tens”
Overtop a nostalgic hip-hop beat produced by none other than J. Cole and Grammy-winning producer Dem Jointz, Anderson .Paak opens “Two Tens” vivaciously, declaring, “Two friends and they both tens, lookin’ nice/ Too bent, I should call it quits but I’m not.” Both .Paak and Cordae toss the mic back and forth perfectly, displaying enviable synergy that leaves fans craving more collabs from the lively pair.
Gloss Up, “Head, Shoulders, Knees, Toes”
Gloss Up is on your head, shoulders, knees and toes. The nursery rhyme-inspired standout track appears on the rising Memphis rapper’s debut mixtape Before the Gloss Up — which also houses her single “Bestfrenn,” featuring real-life best friend GloRilla. The Quality Control signee is carving a lane for herself in the rap game, and is already proving to be a mainstay with her bars and wordplay, highlighted here.
JGrrey, “Theirs13”
With “Theirs13”, rising U.K. singer JGrrey touches on her various complexities through vocals similar to that of Macy Gray. The intoxicating single is a hazy meditation on love, identity, adoption and the transitional periods she’s faced as an artist and person, as she ponders the same question throughout: “Who am I?”
Taylor Hill, “i want you to know.”
After earning credits with big names like Justin Bieber, BTS, Summer Walker, producer/songwriter Taylor Hill is honing in on his own artistry. His funk-inspired new single “i want you to know.” explores the dichotomy of his personal point-of-view and God’s, sprouting from an argument he had with his now-wife at church.
Jordan Ward feat. Ryan Trey, “White Crocs”
“White Crocs” is the second single off of Jordan Ward’s upcoming debut album FORWARD. The rising singer tapped fellow St. Louis native Ryan Trey for the Lido-produced track, which sees the two trade thoughts on balancing a relationship while satisfying a partner’s expensive tastes. FORWARD, which will be released March 3, holds layers of significance for the artist both artistically and personally. “FORWARD, not only pushing our sound and creativity, but pushing to evolve and break cycles,” Ward says of the album title. “FOR WARD, a dedication to my family and our future. FOUR-WARD, my fourth project, but also a FOREWORD in my story being the debut album!”
Kari Faux, “Me First”
Kari Faux is putting herself first … as she should. “Me First” sees the Arkansas native expressing über-confidence as she delivers a self-love bop to set the tone for all the girls this year. Faux is one of many rap girls running laps around their male counterparts right now, with “Me First” being the latest addition to her arsenal.
TRAETWOTHREE, “Outside Like This”
On the precipice of Grammy Weekend, Cali upstart TRAETWOTHREE scripts a gripping tale set at a Grammy party, which could double as a Tyler Perry flick. “Outside Like This” is a cautionary tale about TRAE running into his ex-girlfriend at the awards-week festivities. The biggest blow? Seeing her chat it up with another dude right in front of his eyes.
Flo Milli feat. Lola Brooke & Maiya the Don, “Conceited”
As if the original wasn’t epic enough, Flo Milli’s “Conceited” is back, with a few new it-girls. Enlisting buzzing Brooklyn newcomers Lola Brooke and Maiya the Don, Milli breathes new life into her viral summer 2022 anthem. All three distinct voices shine through, from Milli’s theatrical tone to Brooke’s husk and Maiya the Don’s laid back approach.
Maesu, “Sex on GPS”
“Sex with me on location please/ I’ve been away for weeks,” croons L.A.-based singer, songwriter, and producer Maesu, providing a simple enough plea to catch the attention of listeners. The afro-fusion number is smooth and sensual with tons of replay value thanks to Maesu’s addictive flows and Tejiri Akpoghene’s silky production.
midwxst & Denzel Curry, “Tally”
Indiana rapper midwxst channels his inner Old Hollywood crime boss in the visual for his latest single, “Tally.” Produced by Charlie Heat and Kennedy Sabin and centering latin guitar and horn melodies, the track’s emphatic production adds to the visual’s theatrics, perfectly underscoring midwxst and Denzel Curry’s loaded verses.