Music News

28 Jun 2024

ILLIT: See Exclusive Photos & Selfies of the June 2024 K-Pop Rookie of the Month

Find out Yunah, Minju, Moka, Wonhee and Iroha’s favorite songs, movies, MBTI and more.

ILLIT

ILLIT

BELIFT LAB

In a debut that has set new records for the K-pop industry, ILLIT emerged as a new pop titan upon its March start this year, earning its place as an undeniable new artist to watch — and as Billboard‘s first-ever K-Pop Rookie of the Month, for June 2024. The five-member act of Yunah, Minju, Moka, Wonhee and Iroha formed through HYBE’s reality show R U Next? has rewritten K-pop’s global expectations with an explosive, addictive entrance into the international music scene.

ILLIT’s debut single “Magnetic” made chart history by entering the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 91, a feat unprecedented for a K-pop group’s first song. Their Super Real Me EP also impacted the Billboard 200, with a No. 93 debut, and hasn’t left the World Albums chart since it first entered the listing, notching 13 weeks so far. The group’s international appeal was further cemented as “Magnetic” secured spots in the top 10 of the Global 200 and Global 200 Excl US charts, and still remains on both tallies as of the chart dated June 29.

Moving from reality show contestants to chart-topping artists has been a whirlwind. While ILLIT’s road to debut wasn’t without some minor challenges (a last-minute lineup change saw the departure of Youngseo, originally slated to be the sixth member), the quintet dove into dance rehearsals, vocal training, language lessons and fitness routines, with Yunah mentioning that a pre-debut appearance at Paris Fashion Week in February for Acne Studios also required practice to ensure their chicest walks and poses. Initially announced to the world with the name I’ll-It, changing to ILLIT was not only more visually pleasing and accessible, but was designed to better “emphasize the meaning behind the name of ‘I Will ( ) It,’ to represent the potential for infinite possibilities,” its management home HYBE shared. Get to know the rookies more with exclusive photos, selfifes and quiz questions below. Then read the group’s full Billboard spotlight here.

28 Jun 2024

Why ‘Magnetic’ Group ILLIT Is Billboard’s First-Ever K-Pop Rookie of the Month

In a debut that has set new records for the K-pop industry, ILLIT emerged as a new pop titan upon its March start this year, earning its place as an undeniable new artist to watch — and as Billboard‘s first-ever K-Pop Rookie of the Month, for June 2024. The five-member act of Yunah, Minju, Moka, Wonhee and Iroha formed through HYBE’s reality show R U Next? has rewritten K-pop’s global expectations with an explosive, addictive entrance into the international music scene.

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ILLIT’s debut single “Magnetic” made chart history by entering the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 91, a feat unprecedented for a K-pop group’s first song. Their Super Real Me EP also impacted the Billboard 200, with a No. 93 debut, and hasn’t left the World Albums chart since it first entered the listing, notching 13 weeks so far. The group’s international appeal was further cemented as “Magnetic” secured spots in the top 10 of the Global 200 and Global 200 Excl US charts, and still remains on both tallies as of the chart dated June 29.

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“We couldn’t believe our eyes,” Wonhee says. “We’ve never dreamt of seeing ‘Magnetic’ on the Billboard chart.”

Moving from reality show contestants to chart-topping artists has been a whirlwind. While ILLIT’s road to debut wasn’t without some minor challenges (a last-minute lineup change saw the departure of Youngseo, originally slated to be the sixth member), the quintet dove into dance rehearsals, vocal training, language lessons and fitness routines, with Yunah mentioning that a pre-debut appearance at Paris Fashion Week in February for Acne Studios also required practice to ensure their chicest walks and poses. Initially announced to the world with the name I’ll-It, changing to ILLIT was not only more visually pleasing and accessible, but was designed to better “emphasize the meaning behind the name of ‘I Will ( ) It,’ to represent the potential for infinite possibilities,” its management home HYBE shared.

While partially attributed to its association with an industry powerhouse like HYBE, their label BELIFT LAB (which also houses ENHYPEN) and the visibility from R U Next?, ILLIT’s breakthrough goes beyond mere circumstance. An addictive blend of sugary-sweet vocals, ready-to-go-viral choreography, and, well, magnetic personalities that viewers fell in love with during their show all struck a chord with a global audience, one hungry for the next K-pop breakout.

With an all-star team including HYBE chairman Bang Si-Hyuk, longtime BTS and TXT producer Slow Rabbit and singer-songwriter Salem Ilese all assisting on Super Real Me, the set’s four tracks point to ILLIT’s promising range, demonstrating where the five members could take their future pop stylings.

Get to know Billboard‘s K-Pop Rookie of the Month better below, with the ILLIT members sharing most of their personal and group stories, and previewing what’s to come next.

Congratulations on your debut, ILLIT! You’ve started so strong with both your debut single and EP entering high on Korea’s charts, as well as on Billboard‘s U.S. and global charts. How did it feel to earn such a strong reaction?

MOKA: It was mind-blowing how so many people loved “Magnetic.” We are very happy that it’s enjoyed and loved by numerous listeners. We’ll try our best to show a better version of ourselves. Thank you!

WONHEE: We couldn’t believe our eyes! We’ve never dreamt of seeing “Magnetic” on the Billboard chart. We’re super happy that so many people are loving “Magnetic.”

While R U Next? and coming from a beloved company can help, do you have any theories as to why your debut resonated so strongly with fans worldwide?

YUNAH: I think the cute, bubbly and hip vibe of our songs represents the charms of K-pop and pop combined well, capturing the audience’s ears and hearts.

MINJU: I can’t believe all the love our global fans are showing us and I’m very grateful. I think they recognize and appreciate the efforts we put into the performances.

Can you explain the meaning of ILLIT to you, and your first reactions to the unique group name?

IROHA: When I first heard the name, I thought the meaning behind it was wonderful. It means “we can be anything,” and that we have infinite potential to become whatever we want to be as a team.

WONHEE: What I loved was how it has such a beautiful meaning to the name. I was so happy to know that we’ve got a name that’s solely ours.

What were the months between the finale of R U Next? and debut like?

IROHA: After R U Next? we moved into the dormitory together and took dance, vocal and language lessons.

YUNAH: Yes! We are dorming together right now. Immediately after the show, I spent time taking lessons and exercising, preparing for the debut. As for the fashion week, we focused on practicing walking and posing in front of the press wall.

When did you find out that “Magnetic” was your debut single and what was your reaction?

MOKA: I think we found out sometime in the winter!! I remember how everyone was excited about the song, and I personally thought the song would be perfect for ILLIT.

WONHEE: I vividly remember how all of us were in awe and shouted “Woah!” Because it was that good!

What other songs are your favorites on the album?

WONHEE: I love “Midnight Fiction” the most, because it has its own aura of warmth that’s delivered with cute and whimsical lyrics.

IROHA: I love all of our tracks, but I have to say it’s “Lucky Girl Syndrome” because my heart gets filled with happiness and I truly feel like a lucky girl whenever I perform for it.

Are any or all of you interested in songwriting, composing or production?

MOKA: We actually haven’t tried [those] yet, but our imagined dreams were reflected in “Midnight Fiction.” It was very interesting to see our stories turn into the lyrics. I’d love to work on lyric writing whenever I have the chance.

Can U.S. fans expect to see you anytime soon?

IROHA: I’ve never been to the U.S. before, but I can’t wait to visit and meet our fans there!

There is inevitable pressure and scrutiny that comes being a public figure. How are you remaining mentally and emotionally strong? Do you have advice or tips for those who might also be going through challenging times?

MOKA: I picture myself achieving my goal, which I find very comforting and nurturing. So I’d recommend this method.

WONHEE: I still sometimes have some difficulties controlling my nervousness, but my tip is to take a deep breath right before I say something. This helps me relax a bit.

Looking ahead, what’s next for ILLIT? Any chance you’re already planning your first comeback?

YUNAH: We are all working hard for what’s to come — which I want to spoil so badly, but I shouldn’t! [Laughs.]

IROHA: Like YUNAH said, we’re working very hard on it, so please stay tuned!

Anything else you’d like to add at this time?

MINJU: I’m forever grateful for all the love we received for our debut track “Magnetic.” We’re working hard to come back with better music and performances, so please stay tuned!

YUNAH: I can’t begin to express how thankful I am for the love our fans have been showing us. And thank you Billboard for letting us share our stories!

28 Jun 2024

What’s Your Favorite New Music Release of the Week? Vote!

With June coming to an end, this week’s music releases are getting us ready for the hottest months of the year.

Megan Thee Stallion dropped her 18-track, third studio album Megan. She calls on Victoria Monét, GloRilla and UGK for assists throughout the 18-track project. The effort is filled with three previously released singles in the No. 1 hit “Hiss,” “Boa” and “Cobra.”

Meanwhile, Camila Cabello unveiled her fourth studio album, C,XOXO. The LP features 14 tracks — two of which are Drake collaborations. It was led by the singles “I Luv It” with Playboi Carti — which peaked at No. 81 on the Billboard Hot 100 — and “He Knows” with Lil Nas X.

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Noah Kahan also continued his string of impressive collaborations by lending a second verse to Kelsea Ballerini’s “Cowboys Cry Too.” The emotional duet comes nearly a month and a half after the two musicians teamed up for a joint performance of Ballerini’s “Mountain With a View” and Kahan’s Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit “Stick Season” at the 2024 Academy of Country Music Awards. 

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LISA dropped “Rockstar” under the new partnership between RCA Records and LISA’s management company, LLOUD Co., which she founded earlier this year. The song — which LISA co-wrote with Brittany Amaradio, James Essien, Lucy Healey, Ryan Tedder and Sam Homaee and was produced by Tedder and Homaee — was first teased on TikTok earlier this month when LISA joined the social media site and set a Guinness World Record by gaining 1 million followers in just over two hours.

With all these great music releases out, we want to know which one is your favorite. Check out our Friday Music Guide here, and let us know by voting in our poll below.

28 Jun 2024

NewJeans Unite Fans Through Music at Bunnies Camp 2024 Tokyo Dome Fan Meeting: Concert Review

NewJeans took the stage at Tokyo Dome for its Bunnies Camp 2024 fan meeting on Wednesday (June 26), the first of two days the breakout K-pop group performed at the venue for its first-ever headlining show in Japan.

The five-member girl group set a record as a non-Japanese act for shortest period of time since debuting to perform at Tokyo Dome. Tickets for the two-day event quickly sold out to draw a total of 91,200 fans, proving the “Supernatural” group’s overwhelming popularity in Japan where various talented K-pop acts seek to expand their influence.

K-pop fan meetings often feature segments other than live performances, such as games and chatting among members, to focus on interacting with fans. But NewJeans’ event opted to forgo such frivolities for a more music-oriented showcase based solely on the idea of entertaining fans (Bunnies) through song. In addition to all the tracks from their past EPs and singles — “New Jeans,” “OMG,” “Get Up,” “How Sweet” — the girls performed two off their brand-new Japanese debut single, “Supernatural.” This stance was reflected in the mysterious DJ set by the opening act, South Korean music producer 250 (Lee Ho-hyeong), which focused on remixes of NewJeans songs, but with an emphasis on ambient moods.

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The venue brimmed with intense anticipation before the show began, and when NewJeans actually appeared on stage, the crowd erupted into a fierce frenzy that felt like it would blow off the roof of the stadium. But the five members — including Hyein, who had been on hiatus to recover from a foot injury — showed no signs of nervousness in the face of such a spectacle and went on to hype up the audience with live renditions of their signature songs such as “Attention” and “Cookie,” amplifying the energy of the original songs many times over with assistance from a band consisting of guitarist Kazuki Isogai (SANABAGUN.), bassist Kazuki Arai (King Gnu), keyboardist Yudai Ohi (SANABAGUN.), and drummer Soy. Although there were concerns about Hyein’s condition, she looked well and made a strong comeback, impressing fans with her vibrant, cool performance.

In addition to popular songs like “Hype Boy” and “Super Shy,” the highlights of the day were the solo performances that showcased the charms of each member through a fresh approach — Danielle and Hanni’s sweet duo performance of the unreleased song “Hold It Down,” a strong solo dance by Haerin, and Danielle debuting her beautiful R&B-inspired original track “Butterflies (With U).” 

The girls also covered J-pop songs ranging from classic to contemporary to the delight of the audience, including performances of Vaundy’s “Odoriko” (Dancing Girl) by Minji, Mariya Takeuchi’s “Plastic Love” by Hyein, and Seiko Matsuda’s “Aoi Sangosho” (Blue Coral Reef) by Hanni. Moreover, the girls not only sang these songs, but also created a unique space where the content of each song and the members’ personalities were fused together, as in the performance of “Odoriko,” where Minji threw down her bag with a determined look on her face and started running, a complete change from the cool demeanor she maintained in the first half of the set. NewJeans is known for its beautiful and fragile image, spearheaded by label head Min Hee Jin, and this aesthetic was brilliantly carried through here as well.

The fan meeting also featured guest acts on both days, and J-pop duo YOASOBI appeared on Day 1 (Rina Sawayama took the stage on Day 2) — not as an opening act, but incorporated into the main set. YOASOBI singer ikura joined the group for “Right Now” as if she were the sixth member, surprising the audience with their coordinated formation. The two acts then segued into YOASOBI’s song “Biri-Biri,” smoothly performing the Pokemon-inspired number featuring a cute melody and solid drum and bass beat that perfectly matches NewJeans’ style.

After YOASOBI led the audience to a spectacular climax with its performance of “Idol,” Billboard Japan’s 2023 Song of the Year — unfortunately sans members of NewJeans — the five girls returned to the stage and upped the excitement with an energetic performance of their upbeat hit “ETA,” the audience erupting into a thunderous chorus of “What’s your ETA?” By this time, the band’s groove and the members’ cute but powerful voices and vibrant dance moves were perfectly integrated, and a unique exuberance typical of NewJeans filled the entire venue. Even during the laid-back “OMG,” which the members performed on a moving float, the venue was charged with a strange excitement that had nothing to do with relaxation. To be honest, I was personally concerned that the group’s musicality and a venue with tens of thousands of people might not necessarily be a good match, but on this day, NewJeans completely took over the stadium, a promising result in light of the group’s future performances at large-scale music festivals overseas.

The members closed the main set with “Ditto,” bringing the show to a happy ending with its pleasant groove and familiar dance moves. Answering calls for an encore, the group returned to perform the last song of the evening, “ASAP,” ending the fan meeting in style covered in a huge amount of confetti. The overwhelming satisfaction from the live performance itself — hard to believe it’s only been two years since the group was formed — as well as the tremendous response on social media after the show (with focus on the unexpected covers), will no doubt lead to even greater enthusiasm for the group.

–This concert review by neu_mura first appeared on Billboard Japan

28 Jun 2024

Bilibili Launches ‘New Generation Musicians Program’ Contest for Singer/Songwriters in China

On June 13, the Chinese video platform Bilibili officially launched the “New Generation Musicians Program – Original Season.” This program features a large-scale music creation and musician selection contest for singer/songwriters. It will also provide a 5 million RMB (renminbi) fund, along with diverse exposure opportunities for participants.

The initiative aims to empower musicians to make choices, with a focus on “Musicians helping musicians,” garnering industry support. Eight artists, including Chen Chusheng, Chen Li, Penny Tai, Han Hong, Hua Chenyu, David Tao, Wang Sulong and Tia Ray, are collaborating with the contestants. Sony Music will handle album production, while Billboard China will provide comprehensive coverage of the event. Sixteen acclaimed music critics will assist in promotion through online media, and 13 record labels will offer performance and collaboration opportunities to the contestants.

In 2023, Bilibili introduced the “New Generation Musicians Program – Girls Season” to showcase female musicians, achieving significant success. Industry insiders anticipate that this year’s event will unveil more rising stars in the Chinese music scene.

Trending on Billboard

28 Jun 2024

Fans Think Megan Thee Stallion Is Dissing Nicki Minaj on Her New Album

Megan Thee Stallion released a new album on Friday (June 28), and some fans seem to think she taking shots at Nicki Minaj on a couple of tracks.

The two have beefed before, with Nicki Minaj releasing the diss track “Big Foot” earlier this year as an answer to Megan’s “Hiss,” the latter of which hit No. 1 on the Hot 100 and serves as Megan‘s intro track. That’s important to note, because fans think there are subs aimed in Nicki’s direction on the very next song, “Rattle.”

She doesn’t waste time, rapping, “Ain’t got no tea on me, this ho think she TMZ” as soon as the song begins. Nicki had a rant on the end of “Big Foot” where she starts by saying, “Now listen up, Big Foot. You know I got a lotta tea. I went easy on you.”

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Elsewhere on “Rattle,” Megan appears to take aim at Minaj again.” “Damn, b—h, it been four years/ Worry ’bout your man and your kid,” she spits. “Your life must be borin’ as f—k if you still reminiscin’ ’bout s—t that we did.”

Those bars appear to be referring to her collab with Nicki “Hot Girl Summer” and her collab “WAP” with Cardi B, which came out in 2019 and 2020, respectively. This is around the time Nicki and Meg’s relationship started to change. She ends the verse with, “And I ain’t worried ’bout the bitter b—h link up/ Y’all h—s earned them seats in the fan club,” possibly referring to JT, BIA, Maliibu Miitch, Katie Got Bandz and Akbar V coming out to perform the “Super Freaky Girl (Queen Mix)” during Nicki’s Pink Friday 2 World Tour.

On the next track “Figueroa,” Megan raps “I’m a motherf—n’ Brat, not a Barbie/ On go with any b—h that wanna start it.” Fans immediately pointed out the diss, since Nicki’s fans are commonly known as the Barbz.

With this beef getting put back on the grill, fans are asking if Nicki Minaj should be put on a clock the way Kendrick was put on one after Drake released “Push Ups.” Check out just a few of the fan reactions to Megan’s newest bars below:

28 Jun 2024

Lady Gaga Tells Sasha Velour She’s Been ‘Making a Lot of Music’ Lately

It’s been four years since Lady Gaga unveiled her last solo studio album Chromatica — but according to a recent interview, the superstar says that the drought is set to end soon.

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Speaking to Drag Race star Sasha Velour in an interview posted to the HBO Max YouTube account which has since been deleted (Max hosts Gaga’s concert documentary Gaga Chromatica Ball), the “Rain on Me” singer revealed that she has been making time for music lately. “I have just been in the studio all the time, and I’m making a lot of music,” Gaga told Velour. “It’s just this incredibly vast experience that I just feel so lucky that I get to have. I’m excited for Monsters to hear where I am now, and to be connecting on that level again.”

Billboard has reached out to representatives for Gaga, Velour and HBO Max for comment.

Trending on Billboard

It’s another bit of recent good news about new music for Little Monsters. At the end of the new film (which gives an exclusive look at Gaga’s sold-out Dodger Stadium stop on the Chromatica Ball tour in September 2022), a message flashed across the screen stating “LG7 GAGA RETURNS,” referring to Gaga’s long-awaited seventh studio album.

Elsewhere in the interview, Velour took a moment to thank Gaga for putting out her new documentary. “I want to thank you so much for making this film, for making music that we can dance to, and cry to, and connect with people over,” she said. “It has saved my life and so many others. Please keep creating, and we will be here to cheer you on.” 

The new tease comes shortly after Gaga responded to rumors that she was pregnant. Going on her TikTok, Gaga paraphrased a lyric from fellow pop superstar Taylor Swift and wrote “Not pregnant – just down bad cryin at the gym.” Taking notice, Swift criticized fans speculating on Gaga’s health in a comment. “Can we all agree that its invasive & irresponsible to comment on a woman’s body,” Swift wrote. “Gaga doesn’t owe anyone an explanation & neither does any woman.”

28 Jun 2024

Kendrick Lamar, pgLang and Free Lunch Donate $200,000 to L.A. Charities and Community Initiatives

Kendrick Lamar and pgLang’s Juneteenth Pop Out concert continues to have a positive ripple effect on Los Angeles. Not only did the DAMN. MC unite the city’s musical talents for a memorable one-night affair, but his altruism also rang through, courtesy of the $200,000 donation he, pgLang, Tim Hinshaw’s Free Lunch and participating artists made to 20 L.A.-based charities and city community initiatives.

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“We haven’t seen this type of Unity on the West since we lost our brother Nipsey Hussle,” owner of Free Lunch, Tim Hinshaw, tells Billboard. “As Dot said on stage, this moment was bigger than a back and forth; it was about supporting each other and showing the world that we could come together for a greater cause. All of these organizations play a pivotal role in the development of our community and the hope is that we all continue to support them moving forward.”

Amongst the 20 charities and community initiatives is the Compton G.irls Club. “We would like to thank pgLang and Free Lunch for recognizing their roots and supporting g.irls from the hood. It’s refreshing to know that Kendrick always comes back to the community to support the next generation,” says Chrystani Heinrich, founder & executive director of Compton G.irls Club.

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Lamar’s Pop Out concert brought some of L.A.’s biggest names, including Dr. Dre, Tyler, the Creator, Ty Dolla $ign, Steve Lacy, Mustard and more. Mustard, who shared a performance slot that night with Lamar and DJ Hed, expressed his pride in Lamar and the city to Billboard.

“The Pop Out concert had a significant impact on the city, unifying West Coast hip-hop, providing a platform for emerging talent, celebrating Black culture, and revitalizing the local music scene,” says Mustard. “It garnered global attention but also allowed us artists to give back to different programs based around South L.A. and put L.A. back in the driver’s seat for music, something that’s been long overdue.”

Below is a list of all the respective charities, along with the complete lineup of guests who appeared at The Pop Out on Juneteenth.

  1. Alma Backyard Farms – almabackyardfarms.com 
  2. Boys & Girls Clubs of Carson – bgccarson.org 
  3. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor – bgclaharbor.org  
  4. Brotherhood Crusade – brotherhoodcrusade.org 
  5. Color Compton – colorcompton.org 
  6. Compton Advocates Coalition – comptonadvocates.org 
  7. Compton G.irls Club – comptongirls.club 
  8. DREAMHAUS LA – dreamhausla.org 
  9. Friends at Mafundi – friendsatmafundi.org 
  10. It’s Bigger Than Us – itsbiggerthanusla.org 
  11. Love + Ethos – loveandethos.org 
  12. Peace4Kids – peace4kids.org 
  13. Safe Place for Youth – safeplaceforyouth.org 
  14. Sisters of Watts – sistersofwatts.org 
  15. Social Justice Learning Institute – sjli.org 
  16. Fernando Pullum Community Arts Center – pullumcenter.org 
  17. The Hidden Genius Project – hiddengeniusproject.org 
  18. Thinkwatts Foundation – thinkwattsfoundation.org 
  19. Tommy The Clown Foundation – tommytheclown.com/ttc-foundation 
  20. Unearth & Empower Communities – unearthandempower.org

Full Lineup of Guests:

310babii

AZCHIKE

Bino Rideaux

Black Hippy (Ab-Soul, Jay Rock, Schoolboy Q)

BlueBucksClan

Blxst

Cuzzos

DJ Hed

Dom Kennedy

Dr. Dre

Jason Martin

Jay Worthy + Meet The Whoops

Kalan.FrFr + G Perico

Kendrick Lamar

Mustard

OHGEESY

Ray Vaughn

Remble

RJMrLA

Roddy Ricch

Rucci

Steve Lacy

Tommy the Clown

Ty Dolla $ign

Tyler, the Creator

Wallie The Sensei

Westside Boogie

YG

Zoe Osama

28 Jun 2024

Afrobeats Fresh Picks: Tems, Tyler ICU, Ayra Starr, Rema, Victony, King Promise & More

This year will surely go down as one of the best for full-length albums from some of the best emerging and established talents in African music. Already this year we’ve got projects from Tyla, Tems, Ayra Starr, Ruger x BNXN, Young Jonn, Victony and King Promise, with several of those coming just this past month alone. It’s a lot of great music — and presents some good problems for this column, with so many great options of songs to choose from.

Tems burns bright with soulful reflections about discovering her true destiny while navigating newfound fame, ridding relationships that no longer serve her and more on her debut album Born in the Wild. Meanwhile, Victony expands Afropop‘s borders by bringing an international assortment of artists like American rap-rock sensation Teezo Touchdown and Guyanese American rapper SAINt JHN on his first full-length project Stubborn. “It represents overcoming adversity and transforming life’s ‘lemons’ into powerful art,” Victony recently told Billboard. “I hope that when people listen to the album, they feel a sense of shared experience and inspiration to find strength and hope in their own journeys.”

And Tyler ICU and DJ Maphorisa’s scorching new single “Manzi Nte” — which is currently No. 10 onthe South Africa Songs chart (dated June 29) — is inescapable in the artists’ native South Africa. (Billboard‘s senior R&B/Hip-Hop/Afrobeats reporter Heran Mamo can attest to that given her recent travels to Johannesburg.) Meanwhile, Shallipopi turned in a slew of great guest appearances this month, and his features alongside King Promise and Rema both made the list this month, as did the latest loosie from Lil Kesh and a beautiful collaboration between L.A.X and Magicsticks, among others.

Trending on Billboard

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 catch a vibe with our latest Spotify playlist below.

Ayra Starr feat. Asake, “Goodbye (Warm Up)”  

Ayra Starr bids adieu to a manipulative ex on the glimmering kiss-off “Goodbye (Warm Up),” the Asake-assisted highlight from her resilient sophomore album The Year I Turned 21. P2J’s jazzy street pop production puts extra pep in Starr’s step, as lyrics like “I do not accept your apology” and “Gave you the cold shoulder, I really hope you freeze” deftly kick her ex to the curb. Meanwhile, Asake brushes off any woman with bad energy on his swaggering verse.  

Azanti & PsychoYP, “I Know”  

Azanti & PsychoYP create the ultimate laid-back vibe on “I Know,” from their joint album YP & Azanti, Vol. 2. Malik Bawa’s funky, guitar-driven production assuages both artists during their fight for peace of mind, with PsychoYP also recognizing his phone’s focus mode as an essential weapon, as Azanti croons, “I’m trying to focus on me this time, I’m trying to save myself.” The track’s repetitive groove and chorus that just rolls off the tongue make “I Know” the perfect soundtrack for your next summer roadtrip when you’re getting away to find your own peace of mind.  

Tems, “Wickedest”  

Tems didn’t come to play on “Wickedest” from her bold debut album Born in the Wild. The introductory sample of Ivorian zouglou group Magic System’s 1999 Pan-African smash “1er Gaou” evokes a nostalgic party vibe for her own dancefloor number that’s been bringing out Tems’ wickedest whine all around the world in her ongoing tour. But from the moment she launches into the first verse, Tems asserts her dominance and stays in the lane she’s set forth for herself, brushing past those who want to try her (a reference to her 2019 single “Try Me”) and sticking to the ones who bring her up and get down with her.  

Tyler ICU & DJ Maphorisa feat. Masterpiece YVK, Ceeka RSA, M.J, Silas Africa & Al Xapo, “Manzi Nte” 

After scoring a nomination for best new international act at the 2024 BET Awards and helming one of Rihanna’s favorite songs of 2023, “Mnike” – which recently got a remix featuring Shallipopi and Lojay – Tyler ICU has been on fire. And what better way to keep the heat up this summer than to drop another fire song with “Manzi Nte,” alongside DJ Maphorisa featuring Masterpiece YVK, Ceeka RSA, M.J, Silas Africa and Al Xapo. The music video makes “Manzi Nte” out to be a wet-and-wild anthem – which is fitting given the song’s title translates to water it in Zulu, according to a press release. And the amapiano smash’s rattling production has been powering up participants of the accompanying dance challenge, which Maphorisa demonstrated on TikTok.  

Leather Park, Odunsi (The Engine) & Cruel Santino, “CHANEL”  

Odunsi (The Engine) and Cruel Santino’s numerous collaborations have already proven that they’re the funkiest duo, and “CHANEL” from the former’s Leather Park (Vol. 1) album is a sparkling addition to their collection. In the same vein of Bryson Tiller’s “Whatever She Wants,” fulfilling a woman’s designer dreams is the key to unlocking her heart – and Odunsi and Santi flex how well-equipped they are to buy her Chanel, Bottega and anything else she desires. Odunsi also sharpens his alté production skills on “CHANEL” with kaleidoscopic synth patterns, crisp shakers and rollicking percussion that create the track’s irresistible bounce.

King Promise feat. Shallipopi, “Continental”

In a month brimming with great albums from high-profile talents — Ayra Starr, Tems and Victony among them — King Promise may have delivered the best of all of them. The album’s two big prior singles, “Terminator” and “Paris,” previously appeared in this column, but “Continental,” with its assist from one of the of-the-moment street talents in Shallipopi, sits alongside them as one of the best songs of the past 18 months, combining Promise’s natural melodic feel with his memorable hooks to land a breezy summer hit.

Rema & Shallipopi, “BENIN BOYS”

Rema is coming off one of the biggest years of any African artist ever, with the mind-blowing success of “Calm Down” — and while this link up with the inescapable Shallipopi is unlikely to replicate that crossover smash’s No. 3 peak on the Billboard Hot 100, it’s another song that showcases the many sides of Rema’s artistry, which goes much deeper than the ear worm that was “Calm Down.” “BENIN BOYS” is much harder, with a driving log drum production that propels both artists forward, and is a formidable entry into each of their catalogs.

Lil Kesh, “Lifestyle”

Lil Kesh has one of the more distinctive styles among his contemporaries in the Nigerian pop scene, and “Lifestyle” fits perfectly into his oeuvre. With a soulful, soaring hook and an almost contemplative melody over an amapiano-esque production, Kesh lays out a carefree look at life in a track that’s perfect for the summertime. Kesh can pump out these types of tracks seemingly effortlessly, and the vibe is always right on point.

L.A.X & Magicsticks, “Loke”

Linking with one of the most in-demand producers on the continent, L.A.X delivers a contemplative vocal performance, riding high on carefully crafted melodies while Magicsticks deploys his trademark log drums and a reassuring organ chords. The effect is comforting, in a way, with L.A.X switching back and forth between English and Yoruba to spin his lyrics.

Victony, “Anita”

Victony’s album showcased his distinctive vocal talents; no one sounds like him, and his instantly-recognizable style is one of his best qualities as an artist. Another is his beat selection — and “Anita,” crafted by P2J, provides the perfect platform for an earworm of a track, which is just as catchy as his breakout hit “Soweto,” if not even moreso. It’s a standout on Stubborn, and one of the best songs of his career.

28 Jun 2024

Cash Money’s Bryan and Ronald Williams Crowned ‘Leaders and Legends’ at YouTube Gala

“Don’t let no one tell you what you cannot do!”

So declared Ronald “Slim” Williams as he and his brother, fellow Cash Money co-founder/co-CEO Bryan “Baby” Williams, accepted YouTube Music’s Leaders and Legends Award. His comment also reflected the vibe that resonated throughout last evening (June 27) as the music industry celebrated the venerable label’s 30-year (and counting) legacy.

Guests arriving at Hollywood’s nya Studios West for YouTube’s second Leaders and Legends gala were greeted by a lively five-piece band (including a tuba) in homage to the brothers’ New Orleans roots. Black tie was in full effect as attendees imbibed specialty drinks like the tequila-laced Hurricane and visited a couple of booths featuring various mementos including Cash Money-logoed bank bags with T-shirts inside. To enter the venue itself, guests walked through a replica of a back-in-the-day record store featuring Cash Money “records, tapes and goods.” A huge, glittery Cash Money dollar sign was positioned on one wall behind album crates, while album covers chronicling the label’s storied history adorned another wall. 

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Kicking off the festivities inside was a string of video montages that colorfully depicted Cash Money’s evolution from a fledgling disruptor to Southern hip-hop icon. Integrated in between were tribute clips featuring Universal Music Group chairman/CEO Sir Lucian Grainge (who values the Williamses’ “loyalty, warmth and humor”) as well as onstage salutes from the likes of producer/friend Polow da Don, BMI vp of creative Catherine Brewton, longtime Cash Money attorney Vernon Brown and UMG general counsel/executive vp of business and legal affairs Jeffrey Harleston. After noting that Cash Money is the “longest-running Black-owned label ever,” Harleston added that Baby and Slim taught him three important lessons: “Never forget where you’re from, never forget who your people are and bring them along on your journey.”

While Lil Wayne was spotted in the house along with LL Cool J, among others, there were no live performances. But music was a central force during the evening thanks to a rousing pre-dinner interlude helmed by DJ Trauma as the audience danced and rapped/sang along. They also took home Cash Money Forever cassettes and keychains (that when placed on cell phones provides a link to the music). The 25-track playlist features hits by Lil Wayne, Juvenile, Drake, Nicki Minaj and more.

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Just as rousing were the salutes paid by Republic Records’ chief executives Avery and Monte Lipman plus YouTube’s global head of music Lyor Cohen. Avery’s comments addressed Cash Money’s success over the years: more than 300 Hot 100 hits, with 41 top 10s and seven No. 1s, plus 80 Billboard 200 albums, including 15 No. 1s. He also reflected on his and Monte’s long relationship with Baby and Slim, saying in part, “The Lipman brothers started about the same time as the Williams brothers and we kind of thought we were hot stuff. Then along came Baby and Slim … These guys revolutionized the industry, music culture and even changed our vocabulary by having the word ‘bling’ added to the Webster dictionary. I also saw firsthand their true superpowers: how they could literally manifest things into real life without any fear hesitation and always with a clear intention.”

In his remarks, Monte noted, “The lessons we’ve learned from both Birdman and Slim as our mentors is forever in our DNA and have become part of our daily culture … I can’t remember having one conversation with Slim where he didn’t ask me, ‘What do you think?’ He always crystallized the importance of curiosity, patience, flexibility, and the value of saying no. Baby to this day continues to reinforce the importance of artist integrity, strategy, timing. He’s the consummate field general. But undoubtedly one of my favorite lessons from Birdman was simply never forget that we’re in show business.”

Cohen, who presented the award to the brothers, opened by saying, “A lot of people don’t understand how difficult it is to actually build a business, a sustainable business. But you have to do the work. That’s it. That’s what Leaders and Legends is all about: actually doing the work … Everybody thinks that you can do a shortcut to fame and fortune; [there’s] no such thing. You have to have really great music and you have to put in the work. That’s why I’m so thrilled to invite you, Baby and Slim, to the stage to accept this honor. And would everybody in this room please stand up and pay some f–king respect?!”

Indeed, the audience stood up for the entirety of Baby and Slim’s acceptance speeches, heartily applauding at various intervals. After thanking the room, Baby began by recalling his and Slim’s childhood in New Orleans. “Life wasn’t easy for us; living in every project in New Orleans. I was a real lost youngster trying to find a way because I’d been in and out of homes, in and out of jail, jumped in the streets at 12 years old; at 14 years old, I was wearing two Rolexes. I met some youngsters and didn’t want them to go my route, right? [Cash Money rapper] B.G. was hitting that route, and I saw that [Lil] Wayne looked like he was going that route too.  I wanted to save their lives. My whole mission was to try to spare a life. And I needed help too because I was reckless. The only person that I respected enough to spare my life was my brother. And my way of saving their [B.G., Lil Wayne] lives was putting them in the studio. The studio was going to be the new streets.”

Continuing, he added, “But all due respect to Jay-Z, I remember when he said he retired and Wayne shot a video and said since the best rapper retired, I’m the best rapper alive. And a lot of sh-t changed for us from that moment. At the same time n—as were saying hip-hop is dead. And we’re like honestly, what the f–k is they talking about? We ain’t know nothing about that type of sh-t. So we felt like this was our time to take over hip-hop. That’s when the birth of Young Money came, Nicki and Drake came. We kind of held hip-hop down. We survived the warfare in New Orleans. Now we’re surviving in life, and we did a great job at it. [When] we started, all I thought about was saving four lives, and we end up saving thousands of motherf–kers’ lives. I give all gratitude to my brother, who was like my father, for saving my life.”

Picking up where his brother left off, Slim said, “I want to say that I’m so proud of Juvenile, Wayne, [Mannie] Fresh because I saw them when they was in that studio. They were in friendly competition with each other. We started off doing two songs and would end up doing five songs a night. They were there competing like a basketball player for real. But what really makes me so proud that they’re going on in their careers with generational wealth, doing other things outside of music while keeping music going. My brother and I went through a lot to get to this point. Someone once told me growing up that I ain’t never going to be sh-t and ain’t worth a quarter. But you’ve got to do better than that to break me down. I ain’t breakable like that.”

Slim continued, “It made me want to go hard and work hard, so I’ve got a few more quarters now” as the audience laughed. “Don’t let no one tell you what you cannot do! You do your thing. That’s the only way you’re going to win.” Shouting out several names including Polow da Don, Mannie Fresh, Juvenile, Jeezy, Turk and Wayne, Slim concluded, “I love y’all. Ain’t nobody else alive going to do what we’ve done — ever.”

Kevin Liles, Co-founder & CEO, 300 Entertainment, Lyor Cohen, Global Head of Music, Google & YouTube and LL Cool J

Kevin Liles, Co-founder & CEO, 300 Entertainment, Lyor Cohen, Global Head of Music, Google & YouTube and LL Cool J attend YouTube Music Leaders and Legends at Nya Studios on June 27, 2024 in Los Angeles.

Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for YouTube

Lil Wayne and Bryan “Baby” Williams

Lil Wayne and Bryan “Baby” Williams attends YouTube Music Leaders and Legends at Nya Studios on June 27, 2024 in Los Angeles.

Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for YouTube

Lil Wayne, Lyor Cohen, Global Head of Music, Google & YouTube and Bryan

Lil Wayne, Lyor Cohen, Global Head of Music, Google & YouTube and Bryan “Baby” WIlliams attends YouTube Music Leaders and Legends at Nya Studios on June 27, 2024 in Los Angeles.

Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for YouTube