Fresh Picks
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Last May, Billboard launched its U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart, highlighting some of the best music coming out of the African music scene and impacting listeners in the States. But we’d been paying increasing attention to what’s been going on there for several years now, and the heightened attention has only helped shine a light on a growing generation of performers and songwriters. These rising artists are not only pushing the genre forward, but expanding it beyond its 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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To help celebrate the growing influence and diversity of the music that’s coming out with increasing frequency, Billboard is launching a new, monthly column to highlight 10 of the best new Afrobeats (and its relatives) songs in a given month. That doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty more where these came from — and, for this first column, we’ve pulled some of the best songs from the last few months of 2022 to help kick things off in 2023 — but here is the first collection of some of our recent favorites, with a Spotify playlist at the end to help you get into the vibe. So without further ado, here are 10 Afrobeats tracks that are catching our ears already this year.
Libianca, “People”
Libianca’s breakout single “People” is a stirring cry for help that has been echoing throughout TikTok and reached No. 2 on U.S. Afrobeats Songs. She offers listeners raw insight into her mood disorder Cyclothymia by constantly questioning “Did you check on me? Now, did you notice me?” with soothing, supple vocals and tinkering bells that buoy Libianca from feeling low. From competing on season 22 of NBC’s The Voice to signing with RCA Records and producer Jae5’s 5K Records, the Cameroonian American singer-songwriter is giving Afro-soul music a global platform.
Tiwa Savage and Asake, “Loaded”
Tiwa Savage and Asake take shots at their haters on “Loaded,” one of the highlights from Empire’s first-ever African compilation album Where We Come From, Vol. 1. The self-praising track blends theatrical string arrangements, amapiano’s syncopated breakbeats, gospel choral melodies and rap’s braggadocio, signature sonic ingredients from Asake’s successful debut album Mr. Money With the Vibe. The African Bad Gyal complements his swagger and addresses a leaked sex tape from last year by deflecting her defamers and teasing, “Na who never f–k, hands in the air!”
Burna Boy, “Alone”
The African Giant feels powerless and begs God not to abandon him in “Alone,” his standout contribution to the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack. Burna Boy kicks off the track with his siren-like humming before sorrowful strings and his desolate vocals take over the verses. And while the chorus translates to a cry for help, empowering harmonies and triumphant percussion back Burna up and make him sound less alone.
Aya Nakamura, “Baby”
Malian-French singer Aya Nakamura prides herself on being the apple of someone else’s eye on her new single “Baby,” which was released ahead of her fourth album DNK. “Because I’m his baby, wants to be my daddy,” she flaunts in her robust, native French vocals. Nakamura also flaunts her prowess, coordinated gal pals and Y2K-inspired fashion in the accompanying music video.
Ruger, “Asiwaju”
Afrobeats newcomer Ruger boldly crowns himself “asiwaju,” or champion in Yoruba, in this guitar-driven, melodic offering. The 23-year-old Jonzing World signee rejects his Gen-Z label and promises to “bring hell to anybody wey try test me” in his sharp-tongued bars, deceptively coated with his syrupy vocals. Ruger also looks effortlessly cool while parading around the city with his namesake flag-waving crew and schoolkids in the accompanying visual.
Kizz Daniel, “RTID (Rich Till I Die)”
A breezy, infectious melody; a confident, carefree hook; a major key pop feel: What’s not to like? Kizz Daniel has been growing in popularity for a few years now, with his latest a perfect mood for a summertime afternoon — “I live the life that I love/ I love the life that I live” — that has the type of staying power to last into those months. With the release of its music video two weeks ago, it makes its debut on U.S. Afrobeats Songs at No. 29 on the chart dated Jan. 21, with the promise of warmer days ahead.
Teni, Mayorkun & Costa Titch feat. Ch’cco, “MAITAMA”
Teni had one of the best albums of the year in 2021 in her debut Wondaland, a lush collection of songs that established her as one of the brightest voices to emerge in the past few years. “MAITAMA” picks up right where that album left off, with an earworm of a melody and a propulsive beat that provides a platform for guests Mayorkun, Costa Titch and Ch’cco to leave their stamp. If this is a precursor to a sophomore album, there may already be an early contender for the best of the year.
Zinoleesky, “Personal”
Zinoleesky first caught our attention with his show-stopping verse on Lil Kesh’s 2022 hit “Don’t Call Me,” and his latest EP Grit & Lust, released just ahead of Christmas, is a welcome introduction to a new rising talent out of Nigeria. The whole project is worth checking out — a particular shout out to “Yan Yan Yan” — but “Personal” is another standout from the project, with a clean production leaving the singer/rapper to establish a thesis statement of sorts, and a promising future of what’s to come.
Seyi Vibez, “Alaska”
Seyi Vibez broke out last year with his Billion Dollar Baby album, introducing a fresh voice to the scene. But his five-song Memory Card EP is something else entirely: less produced, more insistent, with a raw feeling as if it simply spilled over from the street onto the record. “Alaska” is as good a representative of the project as any; its stripped-down instrumentation relies more on layered vocals and a stray flute than it does on anything traditional, as it bores its way into the memory almost involuntarily. An absolutely original voice.
Victony & Tempoe, “Soweto”
This song has been around for a minute now, but the song’s smooth, danceable beat, produced by Tempoe, is too infectious not to include here. The track peaked at No. 15 on U.S. Afrobeats Songs towards the end of last year, but its vibe has it leading playlists into 2023, while its playful lyrics and catchy melody have seen it stick around for months on the charts, with no signs of it going anywhere.
As 2023 unfolds, the new music continues to pour in. We’ve sifted through what’s new this week in R&B and hip-hop so you don’t have to, and rounded up the very freshest releases that are sure to last in your playlist for years to come. From the drill rhythms of Bizzy Banks to French language afro-fusion from Aya Nakamura, we’ve got every sound you need to power through the good, the bad and the ugly this week.
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Freshest Find: Wesley Joseph, “Hiatus”
Wesley Joseph is pushing through growing pains on his first offering of 2023, “Hiatus.” The rising U.K. musician and filmmaker artfully combines downcast chords with somber lyricism and a chilling falsetto for a climactic song about “a teenager talking to his future self and his future self talking back,” he says in a press statement. “The [first verse] perspective is from my angrier and darker teenage self, caught in a small town and needing an escape,” he continues. “It felt like a time capsule moment, and gave me the context to write the second verse as I feel in the present – clearer and more empowered.”
Eem Triplin, “Walked In”
Eem Triplin cuts through the haze of “Walked In” with his signature rasp and infectious lyrics. The self-produced new single mixes submarine radar-like bells with undertones of distorted 808s, as he raps about being rich and strapped.
03 Greedo, “Hype”
Upon his recent release from prison, 03 Greedo wasted no time feeding his fans. Last week, the LA rapper surprise-dropped a 14-track mixtape called Free 03. Entirely produced by Mike Free, standout track “Hype” sees the newly freed rapper delivering a quick freestyle over the phone from jail.
Aya Nakamura, “Baby”
On her new single “Baby,” Malian-French artist Aya Nakamura knows she’s the prize. The singer pairs the new release with a Y2K-esque video, donning colorful makeup and matching cropped sets. The French-language R&B-Afrobeats fusion single about her being the object of a man’s desire is the second single off Nakamura’s upcoming album DNK.
ALLBLACK feat. Curren$y, “Pelicans”
“New Orleans to the Bay, love, it always been that way,” spits veteran rapper Curren$y on Oakland MC ALLBLACK’s new single “Pelicans.” The P-Lo-produced track is extremely bass-heavy, with claps littered throughout, making for a laid-back Bay Area bop.
Malik Baptiste feat. Snoh Aalegra, “All You Need to Know”
With his latest single featuring Swedish-Iranian R&B crooner Snoh Aalegra, Malik Baptiste delivers a touching ode to home with uplifting lyricism atop meticulous, eclectic production. “When I left home, I did so quietly and without many updates on why or what I’ve been up to,” Baptiste shares in a press release. “Relaying this message of love through Snoh, I’ve set out to reconnect with my loved ones and propel myself forward into goals I’ve set for myself.”
Chiiild feat. Lucky Daye, “Good For Now”
Alt-pop/R&B fusion looks great on Chiiild and Lucky Daye. After the Montreal indie act hopped on Daye’s Candydrip deep cut “Compassion,” the singer and group join forces again on “Good for Now.” “Good For Now” strikes a hard-to-achieve balance between conflicting romance and lightness, a song you can vibe out to on a long drive and maybe shed a pensive tear. (Or not.) The track serves as a single in advance of Chiiild’s upcoming album, Better Luck in the Next Life, and it leaves listeners hopeful for the March project.
Bizzy Banks, “Ok Ok Ok”
New York drill artist Bizzy Banks delivers a nonchalant anthem with “Ok Ok Ok.” It’s the 24-year-old Brooklynite’s first single of 2023, which could prove to be a promising year, despite impending charges following his 2022 arrest. Later this month, Bizzy will be joined by Shawny BinLaden for a Gramercy Theatre set, where we’re sure the thumping beat and catchy verses of “Ok Ok Ok” will reverberate through the crowd.
Armani White feat. Denzel Curry, “GOATED”
Armani White is here to prove he’s no one-hit wonder. Following the massive success of his viral single “BILLIE EILISH” and subsequent release “DIAMOND DALLAS,” he’s back with reinforcement on “GOATED.” The Denzel Curry-assisted track is energetic and addictive, with White seen training with none other than ultimate GOAT, Floyd Mayweather Jr., in the single’s video. “GOATED” is a bouncy trap offering, thickly coated in braggadocio and the playful energy we can expect without fail from White.
Jane Handcock, “Layin Next to Me”
It’s hot, it’s sweaty, it’s summer in January. Jane Handcock’s “Layin Next to Me” seeps sunshine, a funky R&B offering from the rapping, singing phenomenon. The hook delivers a simple, relatable refrain: “You should be here laying next to me/ Phone off, do not disturb.” The Oakland native gently serenades listeners with this soon-to-be Sunday morning classic.
New year, new picks. After all the unforgettable drops of 2022, we’re starting off strong in 2023 with the best cuts from this year’s emerging acts. From burgeoning talents like Ice Spice and redveil to longer-standing favorites like Kamaiyah and Trash Panda, we have an array of sounds help you achieve all of your New Year’s resolutions.
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And of course, don’t forget to share the wealth with our Spotify playlist, linked below.
Freshest Find: Trash Panda, “Doin’ Fine Today”
Thanks to Trash Panda’s latest single, we’re doing fine today, too. The band has dipped into a number of different genres over the course of their catalog, and this feel-good cut draws influence from ’70s funk and soul sounds — making for a perfect soundtrack to the week, and to the start of 2023.
Fresco Trey feat. Brezay, “Pull Up”
There’s something in the water in Memphis, and newcomers Fresco Trey and Brezay are adding to the city’s rich swagger with their new single “Pull Up.” Produced by Jeff Williams, the song is built on heavy bass with choir undertones, as the two bounce off of each other’s boastful bars with adrenaline-powered flows. “My inspiration for ‘Pull Up’ really came from the vibe of Memphis,” Trey explains in a press release. “We invited some local artists to come to the studio and vibe out. When I heard the beat, I jumped in the booth. Then my homegirl Brezay hopped on and killed it!”
Kamaiyah, “Thru the Week”
Kamaiyah is one of one. On her bouncy new single “Thru the Week,” the Oakland mainstay asserts that everyday she’s hustling and getting money. As she should. “Thru the Week” follows the rapper’s recent project Keep It Lit, which was released back in December.
CJ Fly, “Have Knots”
On “Have Knots,” Brooklyn rapper CJ Fly reflects on his life and ascent as a musician. “We all that we got/ Used to dream about the day I see us all at the top/ I got goals of being rich because I was a have not/ My life’s a movie and my story, it’s all part of the plot,” he raps over a NasteeLuvzYou-produced beat. The Pro Era/Beast Coast member also teased a new project to come in April, tweeting, “if you not a fan by February, you will be by April #FLY23.”
Dende, “Sensually”
The intro track to his new EP Before We Crash, “Sensually” finds Texas-born newcomer Dende totally in love. The rising singer stretches his vocals in old-school R&B fashion, crooning that his lover is the centerpiece of his dreams.
redveil, “2daside”
Where redveil is from, they do it “2daside.” The PG County, Maryland native channeled his inner child for this self-produced new single, which finds him racing tricycles with his friends, playing with sidewalk chalk and cosplaying as Bob Ross to paint the Maryland state flag.
Young DrA feat. NLE Choppa, “Don’t Understand”
With the arrival of a new year, Young DrA is setting a few things straight. The Chicago newcomer joins forces with Memphis mainstay NLE Choppa on “Don’t Understand,” as the pair deliver rumbling verses overtop a dark trap beat. “Don’t talk my language they don’t understand/ Don’t know my pain so you don’t understand,” Young DrA raps on the chorus.
BabyTron, “Mr. Hanky”
If there’s one thing BabyTron can guarantee, it’s smirk-inducing bars. Sampling Peter from Family Guy within the first seconds of “Mr. Hanky,” the Ypsilanti, Mich. native rattles off one witty rap after another, a distinctly Detroit beat sounding off behind him.
Daisy Veacock, “the things that you tell her”
Baring sonic similarity to U.K. favorite Lily Allen and infusing jazz influence à la Amy Winehouse, singer-songwriter Daisy Veacock delivers a potent-yet-laid-back single with “the things you tell her.” Daughter to professional saxophonist Phil Veacock, the South London vocalist hails from a musical background and is sure to capture listeners with the track’s clever melodies and relatable lyrics.
Ice Spice, “In Ha Mood”
Whether or not you think she’s our modern-day Princess Diana, one thing we can all agree on is that Ice Spice IS the moment. “In Ha Mood” is the Bronx rapper’s second release since breakthrough hit “Munch (Feelin’ U),” and is proving to be a quick success in social media, thanks to her simple approach to lyrics that the internet has come to love. Drawing sonic inspiration from the Jersey club scene and enlisting producer RIOTUSA (who is also responsible for both “Munch” and follow-up single “Bikini Bottom”), Ice Spice is clearly in the mood to take 2023 by storm.
It’s the season of giving, and this week we’re here to give you gift of new Fresh Picks. If you need to figuratively escape the cold, press play on the warm sounds of West Coast heads Blxst and Larry June or 27Delly’s island-inspired new single. Or if you’re in the mood to get cozy with your loved one, we got you covered with R&B rhythms by Rini, Khi Infinite and Che Ecru. Or if you’re feeling festive, check out ATL Jacob’s new single and accompanying album.
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We’ve got songs for all the winter moods this week, and of course, don’t forget to spread the joy with our Spotify playlist, linked below.
Freshest Find: Blxst feat. Larry June, “Keep Calling”
Blxst and Larry June earned this week’s Freshest Find with their soon-to-be-legendary West Coast link-up. L.A. meets the Bay as the two do numbers and keep balling. Billboard‘s 2022 R&B/Hip-Hop Rookie of the Year did what he does best, delivering his signature rhythmic hook while June spits organic bars about thumbing through 10,000 blues and pulling off in his Porsche playing Confessions.
Che Ecru, “Fell Asleep”
Appearing on his new album Cold Toronto, Che Ecru samples his own song (“Baggage”) for standout track “Fell Asleep.” The Boston artist has a knack for making druggy, moody tracks laced with sexual lyrics, and has been sampled by artists like Baby Keem and Chris Brown.
ATL Jacob, “Every Christmas”
ATL Jacob is introducing a holiday tradition of his own with his new single, “Every Christmas.” Getting into the spirit of the season, the song’s 808s gallop like reindeer underneath a gift of a chorus as he declares, “I feel like I’m Santa every Christmas/ Rappers add me to their list, I get to saving their careers.” The multiplatinum producer is leaning into his artist side, as he teams up with his Wicked Money Family for their debut holiday album, Wicked Money Family Christmas. The project serves as an introduction to the artists on Jacob’s independent label of the same name which, along with Jacob, recently signed a partnership with Republic Records.
Khi Infinite & Reggie Becton, “Pineapple Rum”
DMV natives Khi Infinite and Reggie Becton team up this week for the new slow jam, “Pineapple Rum.” Reminiscent of a summer day with your lover, the imaginative song features flirtatious lyricism and undeniable melodies. “It’s the song you send to ‘the one.’ It sets the mood for a good night out with your person,” Infinite says in a press release. “Think sitting on a warm tropical beach with your romantic other, drinking rum, and having fun with no worries in the world.”
Casper Sage, “Is This Real Life?”
On “Is This Real Life?,” Casper Sage eloquently expresses the euphoric feelings that true love brings. The captivating new song sounds like its cover art — it will have any listener floating with the idea of romance. Featuring soft vocals and minimal production reminiscent of Frank Ocean, the 21-year-old sings with a sense of maturity and emotion that indicates he is wise beyond his years.
Cruza, “Fantasy”
Alt-R&B trio Cruza exists in their own world, and is trying to create a new wave. Mixing heavy bass lines and melodic guitar loops, the band released a new single called “Fantasy” ahead of their forthcoming first album via Def Jam. Cruza is comprised of vocalist Adam Kain, guitarist Charity Joy Brown and bassist and producer AJRoth. “Fantasy” sounds like a loopy dream, and somewhere between alternative indie music and traditional R&B, the band draws on the past and present to create an atmospheric lane of their own.
Ryan Destiny, “How Many”
Following a two year hiatus, actress-singer Ryan Destiny is marking her return to music with her new R&B single, “How Many.” In the video, the Detroit-born triple threat can be seen dancing in a glass box, as she sports a baby blue set to match the lights. “I like telling my experiences through a lens of coming out of a situation better than I came into it,” she said. “Hopefully smarter, wiser. This song is a piece of a puzzle to me for the music following. Including the visual. The next song will be completely different but still, help tell the story.”
Rini, “Pressure”
Rini is on a roll. “Pressure,” which appears on the singer’s newly released sophomore EP Ultraviolet, is the ultimate ode to women. “’Pressure’ is just the perfect vibe out, cruisin’ song to me and I know this can easily be everyone’s favorite,” he says. “The whole video kinda feels like what me and the homies would do back home, you know, just go for drives and kick it.”
TOBi, “Hoodwinked”
On “Hoodwinked,” TOBi explores childhood trauma. “The character in the song is a child that upon witnessing issues in the home, it affects how he sees the world,” he says of the single. “He has a general distrust for systems and adults. What happens when the veil is lifted? As he gets older, he starts to see things for what they really are. He’s on a quest for truth. A very challenging quest. Process these complex emotions with big energy and set yourself free.”
27Delly, “Gimme That”
27Delly is ushering in cuffing season with his island-themed track, “Gimme That.” Serving as a change of pace for the Harlem rapper, the song is the first offering from his upcoming EP, Wake Up.
Thanksgiving may be over but there’s still plenty of music to be thankful for! This week we’ve highlighted various artists who have a knack for pushing the envelope sonically. From veterans like Don Toliver and Babyface Ray to newcomers like Alé Araya and Jeshi, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. And of course, don’t forget to share the wealth with our Spotify playlist, linked below.
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Freshest Find: Don Toliver, “Do It Right”
Don Toliver is special. The Cactus Jack signee’s new single “Do It Right” earns him this week’s Freshest Find for his interpolation of the S.O.S. Band’s 1980 hit “Take Your Time (Do It Right).” Produced by Jahaan Sweet and Boi-1da, the new offering features Toliver’s signature melodic vocals but this time, over a hip-hop, club-type beat. Inspired by Soul Train, the video is sees the Houston singer-rapper in a red 70s era suit at a fictional disco club called Lit City. The visual then transitions to a pool party. “Do It Right” is ushering in a new sonic era for Toliver, who has been teasing his upcoming album Lovesick for some time now.
Liv.e, “Wild Animals”
Along with her new single “Wild Animals,” Liv.e announced her sophomore album, Girl in the Half Pearl, is due out on February 10. The new track melds piano and bass loops with her harmonized vocals, and is accompanied by a stunning visual that she directed herself. “I really love the process of coming up with a vision and doing my best to ensure that it will come out just as it was in my imagination. I tend to use almost all my practices as another way to strengthen my trust and belief in myself,” Liv.e says of the directorial process.
Babyface Ray feat. Blxst & Nija, “Spend It”
Detroit favorite Babyface Ray gets in touch with his softer side on “Spend It.” Enlisting Billboard Hip-Hop/R&B Rookie of the Year, Blxst and singer-songwriter Nija, the Eastside native showers his girl with love and lavish gifts rapping, “Let’s go spend some time in Chanel/ Get your hair done and go paint all your nails/ Baccarat candles, change up the smell.” The romantic track is a refreshing move for the rapper, who typically opts for more hardened tales of street life, as he leans into the “Babyface” part of his name.
Zack Fox, “sipping my tea”
Zack Fox is sipping his tea and spilling it too. Produced by BNYX, his new single “sipping my tea” sees the actor-rapper-comedian spitting random yet cohesive bars for a little over a minute. The multitalented artist has a knack for music, when he decides to make it — as most, if not all, of his songs are bangers.
Alé Araya, “treetops”
“treetops” is an anthem of radical self-love and self-acceptance. The new song captures Chilean singer Alé Araya’s unbound sound as it is a melting pot of sounds and influences including jazz, R&B, soul, Latin, pop, electronic music and beyond. “treetops” is part of a larger body of work that was born from a period of deep loss, and sees Araya return to herself powerfully and authentically.
Ayelle, “Girlfriend”
Ayelle is more than someone’s girlfriend. On her acoustic new single, the Swedish-Iranian singer expresses her desires to want to be loved beyond her romantic status, singing, “What if I wanna be loved, what if I wanna be loved/ Like I don’t belong to, the one I make love to.”
Moyana Olivia feat. Rhome, “Next to Me”
Moyana Olivia and Rhome team up this week for the new single “Next to Me.” The former artist sings with fervor, delivering seasoned vocals about wanting her lover to always be by her side. The L.A. rapper then slides in to deliver bars from a male perspective. The duo also self-directed the song’s accompanying visual, which sees them enjoying a game night with their friends.
MFnMelo, “Rumors”
Continuing the group’s recent run of singles, Pivot Gang’s MFnMelo drops a solo effort, “Rumors.” Produced by Blake Wright, the Chicago rapper spits about staying locked in and blocking out the outside noise. “Self-sufficient is the mission, don’t let them retreat your vision/ Trust is instinct, be you/ That’s unique” he raps.
Joya Mooi, “Tears”
Ahead of her upcoming album, What’s Around the Corner, dropping in January, Joya Mooi released the hi-hat heavy new single, “Tears.” “‘Tears’ is about the feeling that comes to you when you finally lean into life, let go, and let the rain fall,” the Amsterdam-based artist said in a press statement. “Trying to embrace dramatic endings, resets, failures and the darkest phases that you’ve been through.”
Jeshi, “This Thing of Ours”
East London rapper Jeshi delivers a house-inspired new track on the deluxe version of his debut album, Universal Credit, which arrived earlier this year. “This Thing of Ours” sees the artist spitting over a house/hip-hop hybrid beat as the visual shows him in and out of phone booths and walking the streets of London.
Happy Monday! This week’s column is proof that R&B, in all its forms, is alive and well. From buttery ballads by Elmiene, Kenneth Cash and Khamari to the alt-R&B offerings of Sylo and deem spencer, lovers of the genre are in for a treat for the next seven days. Be sure to share the wealth with our Spotify playlist, linked below!
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Freshest Find: Elmiene, “Why (Spare Me Tears)”
This week’s freshest find goes to London-based artist Elmiene. “Why (Spare Me Tears)” is the new artist’s second solo single of his career and showcases his soft, buttery vocals. Last year, the singer-songwriter’s debut song “Golden” was featured in Virgil Alboh’s final Louis Vuitton fashion show, a moment that created a buzz around the singer as it was his first introduction to the world. Co-written and produced with Jamie Woon, “Why (Spare Me Tears)” serves as the gleaming start to Elmiene’s career and is the first taste of his forthcoming project coming soon.
Sylo, “Air”
An acronym for “a– in rotation,” Sylo’s new single “AIR” is a velvety story of getting caught in a comfortably imperfect routine, unable to break the cycle. The Korean-Canadian alt-R&B savant provides a ballad full of orchestral swells and a playful kind of sexiness. “Forcing yourself to stay when you know you gotta go is always tumultuous,” Sylo said of the song in a press release. “AIR” is the first single off his upcoming EP blanket.
deem spencer, “To have it all”
“To have it all” is minimally optimistic. On the new alt-R&B/pop offering, deem spencer contemplates his relationship with fame. “When I wrote ‘To have it all’ I was in a period where I needed something to shake. I felt stagnant and lost the optimism for this dream that I dedicated myself to,” spencer shares in a press statement. “I was questioning why become famous at a time like this? Why become another rise and fall story? A lot of times when you come from nothing you can be consumed by desire. I want people to think about what they do have and recognize the value in it.”
Braxton Cook feat. Masego, “90s”
Emmy Award-winning musician Braxton Cook connects with Masego for a refreshing, jazz-R&B take on Black love, as the two kindred spirits serve up a smokey homage to the ‘90s Black love they grew up seeing in film, TV and art. “The protagonist is asking to be loved like a classic ’90s Black film,” said Cook. Adding Masego, “I’ve spoken to many women about the dating market, and it’s ghetto out here. We need healthy relationships shown in media, and a realistic view on what a sustainable partnership looks and feels like.”
Kenneth Cash, “Catnip”
Kenneth Cash just wants a little bit of love. On “Catnip,” the rising R&B artist likens love to catnip — he only needs a little bit for it to hit. “Just a little bit/ A little bit of love gives a little hit/ It’s better than the drugs, now I’m giving it up/ So why I feel the buzz,” he sings.
Kenzo Balla, “Krash Out”
Kenzo Balla is yet another emerging voice out of New York City’s drill scene right now. In his new single “Krash Out,” the Bronx rapper delivers quick bars about getting sturdy and keeping his foot on the gas. He also makes it known that he’s been making moves long before gaining notoriety, rapping, “N—as cap in they rap, what’s that bout?/ I been doing s–t before I had clout.” “Krash Out” will appear on Kenzo Balla’s upcoming EP Mr. Ready to Blitz, due out Nov. 15.
Archy Moor, “Have It In My Hands”
Nigerian-born, Dublin-raised rapper Archy Moor is speaking his unfiltered truth on his new single, “Have It in My Hands.” The new artist is embracing a fresher, braver side of himself while creating his own lane in hip-hop. Nick Mills provides a chilling-yet-calm chorus, heightening Moor’s personal reflections embedded in the track.
Nolan fka, “Houndstooth”
On “Houndstooth,” Nolan fka is making nods to lo-fi. The Detroit rapper-producer deviates from his usual boom-bap, soulful production to create a dreamy, downtempo track dedicated to Black women. “‘Houndstooth’ is a product of my admiration for outlets such as Soulection, Godsconnect, etc. It has that downtempo soul feel but also shows influence from the lofi community,” Nolan says in a press release. “My aim is to always keep things classic in my work. In other words, preserve culture. Houndstooth is a classic global design but nobody wears it like a woman does. Not to mention a black woman! And although the lyrics may suggest some toxicity, this track is really for the ladies!”
Obai, “Missed Call”
Geffen’s newest signee Obai is here with debut single “Missed Call.” A mid-tempo ballad about the disappointment when a romantic relationship does not turn out as planned, “Missed Call” embodies the essence of Obai’s sound: a blend of R&B melodies inspired by the artist’s Sudanese roots, along with a catchy pop flair that seeks to recapture R&B’s own art of storytelling and distinctive vocal delivery.
Khamari, “Tell Me”
Fresh Picks mainstay Khamari is back with another tender single. “Tell Me” blends R&B and soul with a hint of alt-rock as the Boston native reminisces on the way things were in his relationship, over a minimal and stripped-back beat. “‘Tell Me’ is about that feeling of insecurity you get in a relationship while watching it deteriorate from the inside,” Khamari says in a press release. “Dealing with the vacuum of doubt and confusion that bad communication leaves, but not acting on it because you’re hopeful it’ll work itself out.”
It’s been unusually warm in NYC in this past weekend, and it’s probably due to all the heat that’s been dropping in the R&B and hip-hop worlds. Regardless of where you’re located, this week, we’ve got 10 new songs to help you enjoy the nice weather or to help keep you warm. From the R&B rhythms of Q and Jahkoy, to boom-bap raps of Pivot Gang and Lakewude, this roundup has everything you need and more to power through the week.
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Freshest Find: Q, “Today”
Q’s falsetto earns him this week’s Freshest Find. The Florida-raised singer’s new single “Today” has the ultimate build-up, starting slow and erupting into a funk-infused, R&B bop that’ll make anyone want to dance. Q, who is 23 years old and signed with Columbia Records back in 2020, has an old-soul vibe to his voice and artistry. “Today” is the latest addition to his musical arsenal.
Frsh Waters, “Pray n’ Repent”
Continuing their release streak leading up to the five-year anniversary of John Walt Day, Pivot Gang’s Frsh Waters released a new single called “Pray n’ Repent.” The Saba-produced track finds the Chicago rapper practicing self-forgiveness and repenting for his sins.
Huey Briss, “Warren G”
Huey Briss is no stranger to paying homage to city that made him. On “Warren G,” the Long Beach rapper salutes his fellow LB G-funk artist with the song’s title and many of its bars, rapping “All that s–t y’all talking, it be boring me/ And you know I keep it on me, act accordingly/ I gotta ball, I want it all/ I feel like Warren G.” The song appears on Briss’ new EP Wishing Out Loud.
Tempest, “Heathens”
On “Heathens,” Tempest is embracing her dark side. The alt-R&B/hyper-pop hybrid finds the Long Beach native vibrantly tapping into her villain era, as she sings about “trying to be a heathen.”
SEB, “loving u is harder”
On “loving u is harder,” SEB sings about his confusing relationship with ease. “Loving you is harder than I thought/ You got a reputation breaking hearts/ Guess I should’ve saw this from the start/ A pretty face, you such a work of art,” he laments over the alt-R&B beat. The Chicago-raised artist’s new single touches on codependency and “feeling blindsided by who someone actually is after falling in love with them,” he says in a statement.
Pivot Gang, “911”
Their second single this year, Pivot Gang is back with a new single called “911.” The Chicago collective’s chemistry is undeniable as the group’s vocalists effortlessly tag-team all over the daedaePIVOT-produced beat. The gang is releasing singles both together and individually — again, leading up to this year’s John Walt Day in Chicago on Nov. 26.
Eem Triplin feat. $not, “Let You Know”
Eem Triplin and $not team up for the new single, “Let You Know.” Produced by the former, the song marks the duo’s first collab with both artists on vocals, as they twirl gentle melodies and triplet flows over minor-key organ and finger snaps. “Let You Know” chronicles how pair’s hard-earned trust issues affect their romantic lives.
Lakewude, “Sunlight”
On “Sunlight,” Lakewude reflects on his life and rise as an artist. The Tennessee musician uses intricate wordplay to spit about how times have changed and channeling his “better side.” “N—as bug me, they said they spray like it’s pesticide/ They just wordsmith nerds, ’cause no one ever really dies/ We endorsing violence then parade because they kill our kind/ You see my contradiction?” he raps.
Jahkoy, “Bitter”
Jahkoy is, well, “Bitter.” “You ever get out of a situationship but that person still has some of your things and you lowkey want those things back so now you’re kinda bitter?? Yeah, this is that song,” the Toronto singer told Billboard about the song. The relatable new track is off his upcoming project Sex & Forgiveness.
Phony Ppl, “dialtone.”
With “dialtone.,” Phony Ppl is setting the tone for their new upcoming album. The eclectic funk track is two songs combined, explained the Brooklyn-based band. “‘dialtone.’ is actually two different songs at once! One song (the cause) is about a guy realizing space is only expanding between him and his lover. The other song (the effect) is about a relationship that only exists in the mind of said guy. Either way, there’s something wrong!,” they say in a press statement. “dialtone.” premiered on season five, episode four of Issa Rae’s Insecure. The song will also appear on their upcoming album, Euphonyus, due out Nov. 18.
Another week, another must-hear round-up. As we inch closer to the most wonderful time of the year, we’ve got all the heat to keep you warm and cozy for this year’s cold-weather season. From Rini and Nathan Archie’s goosebump-inducing falsettos to another drill banger from Ice Spice, our list has a little something for every moment of the rest of your week.
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Freshest Find: Nathan Archie, “Hurt Me Enough”
Indiana-based artist Nathan Archie makes his debut this week with his breathtaking first single “Hurt Me Enough.” The alt-R&B/pop song is spellbinding with its personal songwriting and goosebump-inducing vocals, as Archie sings about escaping a toxic relationship. The rising singer-songwriter has also garnered over a million TikTok followers, which is where he first teased the song back in July.
Ice Spice, “Bikini Bottom”
Since the release of her hit song “Munch (Feelin’ U)” back in August, Ice Spice has been riding the wave of virality. Last week, the Bronx rapper continued her lighthearted take on drill with her new song “Bikini Bottom” — which, of course, sounds like it could be used during frantic scenes in Spongebob Squarepants.
Latir, “Am I Allowed to Say I Missed You?”
On “Am I Allowed to Say I Miss You?,” Latir wonders just that. The London-based singer and poet blended his tender vocals with ’80s synths for an alt-R&B song about a breakup and the cycle of grief and wonder that comes following a lost love. “This song acknowledges the fact that our most beautiful moments have passed, but questions whether we’re able to look back and appreciate the good moments we had, rather than acting like they never happened,” Latir says of the song.
Rini, “Haunt Me”
Rini is back with another single titled “Haunt Me.” The second track off his upcoming EP UltraViolet, the Australian singer-songwriter flexes his sultry falsetto once again, detailing his emptiness and cravings for his fleeting lover.
Gidi feat. Merlyn Wood and SoGone SoFlexy, “Chains”
Rising Baltimore artist and producer Gidi is ushering in a new sound with his new single “Chains.” The 23-year-old recruits Brockhampton associates Merlyn Wood and SoGone SoFlexy here for an ambitious record that blends blues, 90s R&B and early aughts pop. “This is the start of the GARÇON era, a new sound, a new texture,” says Gidi in a press release. “Being from Baltimore, I’m pulling inspiration from DMV legends like The Neptunes & Timbaland but tryna push the sound forward.”
Akinyemi & Johan Lenox, “Phone Down”
Akinyemi and Johan Lenox want you to put your “Phone Down.” The two linked for a single urging listeners to prioritize their mental health and live in the present as much as possible, the former being a common theme in Akinyemi’s music.
Pivot Gang, “Aang”
“Aang” marks Pivot Gang’s first single as a group since they released their debut album You Can’t Sit With Us in 2019. Produced by Saba, the mellow track flips original vocals and guitar by Gaidaa and Maria Sanchez, respectively. The visualizer for the new track also acts as a tribute to late member squeakPIVOT, who died in a shooting last year. The Chicago collective is back in their bag as they gear up for the fifth anniversary of John Walt day at the end of November.
Baby Rose, “Go”
Baby Rose’s “Go” ushers in a new era personally and sonically for the singer-songwriter. Bold in nature, the new single was released alongside another song called “Fight Club” featuring Georgia Anne Muldrow, and both are rooted in authenticity and a newly found sense of self. “‘Go’ is about fighting to hold onto past love by any means necessary. The record is nostalgic. It finds me in a space fighting for the familiar and fading,” she says in a press release. ‘This record was created in Nashville while I was in a state of peak blessings, but at the time felt fearful in the back of my mind because I knew nothing lasts forever. That is a beautiful and equally painful fact of life.”
Jaylon Ashaun, “Full Time”
The second song in his “Rough Draft” series, Jaylon Ashaun drops a colorful new single called “Full Time.” The Houston native describes the song as “a theme song for the people” and “a fun reminder to treat your dreams like a full time job because results take time.” At a minute and a half in length, “Full Time” fuses R&B, pop and hip-hop to create a bouncy, upbeat track that adds to Ashaun’s vision of pushing the envelope.
Allyn feat. Dom Kennedy, “One Time”
On “One Time,” Allyn knows her worth. The L.A.-via-Sacramento singer-songwriter links with Dom Kennedy to let it be known that she’s quick to cut a man off if need be. “It only takes one time to feel how you movin’/ to see what you doing/ it only takes one time to know I wasn’t wrong/ I seen what time you’re on,” she sings for the song’s chorus.
It’s Monday again, and you know what that means: We’ve got 10 new songs to help you power through the week. From the mellow sounds of Sebastian Mikael, Rini, and Kirby to hard-hitting bops by Lancey Foux and Reese LaFlare, there’s a song to cater to all of this week’s ebbs and flows.
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Don’t forget to share the wealth with our Spotify playlist, linked below.
Freshest Find: Central Cee, “One Up”
Now that Central Cee has convinced us he’s not homophobic, the U.K.-bred newcomer has moved on to new concerns: leaks. “[I’m] only dropping this cos they leaked it,” he says in a statement alongside his his surprise EP, No More Leaks. “One Up” presents itself as a standout moment of the four-track offering, highlighting the 24-year-old MC’s undeniably cool edge and witty bars.
Rini feat. Beam, “Selfish”
With “Selfish,” Rini is setting the tone for his growth over the past year. The L.A.-via-Australia singer taps Beam for the moody new single, on which he realizes that the only way to elevate is by prioritizing himself. “‘Selfish’ to me is a song where I learned that there’s more than one way to be selfish,” the singer said in a press release. “Often you think of it in a negative light — and of course it took me going through the negative — but there’s positive ways to be selfish too.” “Selfish” is a single off Rini’s forthcoming EP UltraViolet.
Lancey Foux, “All Night Long”
“All Night Long” is the moody, 808-driven introduction to Lancey Foux’s upcoming album Life In Hell. The U.K. artist is no stranger to cultivating music that blurs genre lines, often dabbling in trap and alternative hip-hop sounds.
Hoosh, “Slow Dance”
Despite its lighthearted and bouncy production, Hoosh’s new single “Slow Dance” has a message. After a conversation he had with a dancer, the Miami-via-Sudan artist wants others to understand that what truly matters is not what one does but how one carries themselves and their character. “Slow Dance” is deceptively introspective, but the musician doesn’t want listeners to understand his message without dancing and vibing to his upbeat new song.
Jordan Ward feat. Joony, “Idc”
Jordan Ward and Joony collided for a smooth, lo-fi track about letting go of their exes. “IDC” sees the two carelessly running around New York City in oversized suits as they trade nonchalant verses about being newly single. “I don’t care, I just want you to know/ I don’t like what you did, that s–t hurt/ I don’t care what you do anymore, anymore,” Joony sings for the chorus.
Sebastian Mikael, “Scene 1”
Celebrating the release of his new EP Phileo, Sebastian Mikael took to COLORS to perform his standout track “Scene 1.” The Swedish Ethiopian singer delivered a soulful performance of the song, which sees him falling for a woman who he says is “acting up.”
Reese LAFLARE, “Flu Game”
Atlanta rapper and producer Reese LaFlare receives the ultimate co-sign on “Flu Game.” “You gotta push right now to have a standout moment where it catapults you,” explains Drake in an audio note. The song title remains in line with the spirit of Drake’s message, referring to Michael Jordan’s 1997 NBA finals game in Utah — where the icon scored 38 points, leading the Bulls to a win, despite being severely ill. Produced by Mile Franklin, Maurice Nichols and Ronald Crawford, the track boasts a swoon-worthy instrumental, begging to be bumped from your car speakers for all to hear.
Mia Gladstone feat. Lance Skiiiwalker, “Swimming on the First Date”
Experimental artist Mia Gladstone re-emerges with a hypnotic new project, Loopy. Back together with longtime TDE collaborator Lance Skiiiwalker, the duo’s distinct tones and flows shine atop funky neo-soul instrumentation.
STANY feat. Rema & Offset, “Only You”
It’s a party of three. Afro-French producer Stany enlists Offset and Nigerian up-and-comer Rema to kick off his solo debut with “Only You.” Every Rema melody sounds like a hook, with Offset’s verse a refreshing change of pace on the Afro-fusion track.
Kirby feat. Dave Guy, “Take Care”
What’s there not to love about Kirby’s latest, transportive offering? “Take Care” sounds like a warm embrace, the singer setting the mood through environmental sounds of children playing, thick horns courtesy of Dave Guy, milky chords and her irresistibly smooth tone. “Take care of momma/ Know you gotta take care of brother/ You gotta take care and hustle/ But please take care of you,” she declares.