Rising multi-talented lyricists and NOFUN! members Mother Wata and WADE08 merge the Bay and LA with their latest single, “Song Cry.” The two float over a stripped-back beat produced by Grammy-winning and Diamond-selling MYGUYMARS. The two artists exude vulnerability with each guitar strum as they detail their emotional experiences of navigating toxic friendships and dating in Los Angeles.
Mother Wata, born Jasmin Jerrai Barnett, is an American rapper, songwriter, and singer. While raised all over Los Angeles County, Wata was surrounded by musicians and successful artists within the music industry, which birthed a deep desire towards her crusade to stardom. Wata’s multi-talented father, Deon Barnett of the Compton duo 2nd lI None, holds great responsibility for Wata’s introduction into the music industry. With a mixture of her father’s love of Hip Hop, Wata’s mother, Latisha Chappell, a former performer of the “Young Saints,” introduced Wata to the sound of RnB, jazz, and blues music. Wata’s musical influences are Alternative R&b, Afropunk, and Rap. Wata is on a journey to push a Genre-less sound into mainstream music to help elevate the sound of future generations.
WADE08, A rising artist from Northern California, has carved his own lane in the rap game through his production, lyricism, and persona on his records. When producing, he uses sounds that fuse traditional 510 elements with genres like G-FUNK/P-FUNK, HOUSE, ELECTRONICA, RNB, SOUL, and more. Being a Bay Area product, Hayward to be exact, means that you will always hear Wade’s HYPHY upbringing in the essence of his music. His entire discography tells the story of a multi-faceted artist with the penmanship for turnt-up club anthems but also vulnerable, intimate album cuts that narrate his life’s journey.
2. grouptherapy. – i was mature for my age, but i was still a child
The captivating collective grouptherapy. release their highly anticipated new album i was mature for my age, but i was still a child. In celebration, they share a thrilling new music video for their booming track “HOT!” directed by Max Bickford, which further cements the group’s boundless versatility and artistic prowess. The release serves as yet another offering that brilliantly captures the group’s extraordinary ability to bring to life deeply palpable art that simultaneously analyzes and celebrates the dualities of our wavering humanity with no less of a thrill.
Ushering a new era for the group, i was mature for my age, but i was still a child sees the group emerge from a dark period of time with a vengeance. Here, they revel in their resilience and a rediscovered sense of self and liberation with a fiery desire to no longer compromise. The result is a striking project that houses a collection of dynamic songs spanning across sonic realms rooted in radical self love and the power of their deep friendship, establishing an extraordinary world of their own creation. It’s safe to say, the project solidifies the group as one of today’s most riveting acts with an impact that will undeniably extend beyond music.
Based in Los Angeles, grouptherapy. consists of three members, Jadagrace, SWIM and TJOnline, who have been close friends and peers for over 15 years and united during tumultuous periods of their young lives. They found solace and friendship with one another while navigating the all too often murky terrain of the entertainment realm. Individually they are vast and distinct and collectively they beautifully amplify the talents of one another, resulting in an art that surpasses the confines of genre and exists unlike anything else out right now. They create from a place of love, unrelenting passion and a refreshing desire to grow and embrace the dualities that make up their DNA, producing a one-of-a-kind transformative art that not only thrills but also provides belonging to those on the margins. The young group has quickly garnered large critical acclaim from The New Yorker, Teen Vogue, i-D Magazine, Paper Magazine, Fader, Revolt, Clash Magazine, Stereogum, Flood Magazine and many more.
GROUPTHERAPY. ON I WAS MATURE FOR MY AGE, BUT I WAS STILL A CHILD:
“This is the album we’ve been trying to make for the last 5 years. This is for all the kids who had to grow up too fast, to take care of their caretakers, to leave their innocence behind to survive. Your scars make you who you are, but sometimes you have to re-live how you got them to heal and move forward. We made this as our roadmap to catharsis. Hopefully this helps someone else reach it too.”
3. Jenny Owens Youngs – Avalanche
Renowned singer-songwriter Jenny Owen Youngs announces her first full length studio album in over a decade, Avalanche, set for release September 22 on Yep Roc Records, where she signed earlier this year. Avalanche is a momentous culmination for Youngs, who has chronicled a tumultuous, yet productive, ten years into an achingly beautiful collection of songs that dance along the emotional spectrum from heartbreak, divorce, grief, to finding love again and basking in joy.
Alongside the album announcement, Youngs has released the title track “Avalanche” with a stunning visualizer she curated of found archival footage of, fittingly, avalanches. Additionally, she released a live performance video of “Avalanche” featuring Jenny alongside Peter Silberman of The Antlers. Paste premiered the performance and single, praising it as a “thoughtful, introspective indie-folk track that centers Youngs’ airy, grieving vocals atop a patient silky guitar and snare-heavy percussion.”
4. August 08 – Bruises
Critically acclaimed Los Angeles creative maverick August 08 returns with an energetic new video for “Bruises.”
The track heralds his anxiously awaited EP, Pretend It’s Okay, which finds August further shaping his community of listeners with dancefloor music just in time for the summer. Having written and collaborated with some of the most vital and influential artists in the alternative/dance/electronic space today – including Channel Tres, Diplo, Skrillex, Blood Pop, Yellow Claw, Toro y Moi, Boombox Cartel, GTA and Major Lazer – the new project pulsates with the energy of the nightlife.
“Bruises” finds August 08 in the center of the dancefloor. A four-on-the-floor beat ignites the track as neon keys glimmer and the bassline exudes disco swagger. He flexes his dynamic vocal range, stretching from intimate verses into a falsetto-inflected hook. Holding back the tears in favor of moving at full speed, a reflective refrain rings out as he observes, “We don’t owe each other nothing. Chapter’s finished. I’m done with you. My heart’s not broken. It’s just covered in bruises.”
“Bruises are an expression of love through all. Been through a lot of heartache in my love life but I’ve always been able to put the pieces back together and move forward. ‘Bruises’ speaks to love and how it may waiver but never completely abandons us,” said August. “This video represents love in all forms and how no matter our difference we can love through all. I love how music can connect people from all over allowing for freedom of express. I wanted to pay homage with love and respect to the art and the community.”
Landing in the wake of his 2022 two-part album, SEASICK which generated millions of streams highlighted by “Water Sign” [with Jhené Aiko], “What We Used To Be” [feat. Joji], and “Cutlass” [feat. ScHoolboy Q]. Earning widespread acclaim, FLOOD praised, “It’s equal parts powerful, catchy, and heavy,” and Rated R&B applauded him as “warmhearted.”
Los Angeles native August 08 (August Grant), released his debut EP Father in 2018, followed by 2019’s Happy Endings with an Asterisk. In 2020, he released his most critically acclaimed work, the Emotional Cuh EP which Atwood magazine said, “captures the depth, pain, passion, and truth that resonates throughout August 08’s artistry and music.”
5. Mekka Don – Carry It On
“My new single “Carry It On” represents what life is about to me. It’s about legacy and leaving the World a better place than you found it,” says Mekka Don. “It’s also important to pass down information, and to do it early. The kids are ready.”
6. TA Thomas – W.I.A (Where I'm At)
Following May’s “June 15th,” which received rave reviews from publications like ThisisRnB, Rated R&B, Clash Magazine, and VIBE, TA is looking to continue his red-hot momentum with his next release, “W.I.A (Where I’m At)”
As the second single off of TA’s forthcoming project, “W.I.A (Where I’m At)” sheds light on the world of relationships through the eyes of someone that’s cautious in love. It’s an uptempo track about not rushing into romance, especially when you’re still healing from the past. More than anything, TA’s next offering mirrors the kind of honest storytelling that’s celebrated throughout R&B.
To really drive his message home, TA hits the road to clear his mind in the corresponding visual for “W.I.A (Where I’m At):
Hailing from the Mississippi Delta, TA has been quietly gearing up for the release of his solo debut project. Over the years, the self-taught singer, songwriter has developed a reputation for his one-of-a-kind song covers and impassioned songwriting. In fact, the latter earned TA his first GRAMMY nomination last year, teaming up with his former bandmate – Tre’von Waters of NTD (Next Town Down) – to write “Talm’ Bout’ for Chris Brown’s Breezy album.
7. flowerovlove – Coffee Shop
Acclaimed indie artist flowerovlove returns with “Coffee Shop,” a bright, infectious dream-pop single that spotlights her timeless, luminous vocals. Her winsome personality shines in the vibrant official video for “Coffee Shop,” which finds her playing the captain of a cheer squad and a host of other characters. Born Joyce Cisse, the 18-year-old artist from South London has independently released a series of captivating singles that include “Malibu,” “Hannah Montana,” “I Gotta I Gotta” and “Love You.”
NME hailed flowerovlove as the “Indie-pop upstart that makes it feel like summertime all the time” when she made her Reading and Leeds debut last year. Following her performance at PrimaveraSoundPorto, where she had the massive crowd clapping and singing along with her, flowerovlove will be playing numerous festivals this summer. See below for itinerary. Check out her Vevo DSCVR Artists To Watch 2023 live performances of “Out For The Weekend” and “Get With You.”
Fusing sunny, soothing melodies with introspective lyrics and drawing inspiration from artists such as Tame Impala, flowerovlove won acclaim for her first two EPs Think Flower and A Mosh Pit In The Clouds, released last year. She adeptly combines her passions for music, nature and fashion into a flourishing whole. She walked at Paris Fashion Week, modeled for Ralph Lauren for Polo Originals collection and has also collaborated with brands like Gucci, Maison Kitsuné, Adidas and Swarovski.
DORK observed, “Flowerovlove perfectly encapsulates what it means to be a Gen Z pop star, making music on your own terms with a singular vision steeped in the pop cultural wonderland in which you’ve grown up, warping and blending it into a compelling and idiosyncratic confection.” i-D declared, “Flowerovlove has star quality” and Nylon praised her “breezy pop that’s incapable of putting you in a bad mood.” Naming her to the Class of 2023, DIY Magazine noted, “flowerovlove has stunned crowds across Europe this summer with her upbeat dream-pop, and now she’s ready to be the world’s biggest star.”
8. Elmiene – Mad At Fire
British musician Elmiene, who was tipped by Vogue at the top of the year as one of the 9 musicians set to take over in 2023, signs with Def Jam Recordings/Polydor and releases new single “Mad At Fire.” The song, co-written with Syd [The Internet] and produced by Lil Silva, features Elmiene’s inimitable voice and seamlessly distills R&B, soul and avant-garde electronic music in under 4 minutes.
The song is the first new music from Elmiene following the release of his debut EP EL-MEAN that was released in March and arrives on the heels of his debut television performance on Later… With Jools Holland where he debuted a new, unreleased song “Marking My Time.” This spring the 21 year old artist sold out his first three headlining shows in London, a sign that Elmiene is already in high demand even in these early days of his career.
Speaking about the song, Elmiene shares: Like fire still burns when it’s cold out, Like skies can still be grey in June, Like Bourbons are still eaten even though custard creams are better, I can still love you and leave you.
Elmiene has had a gleaming start to his career. His first introduction to most was through his music being featured in Virgil Abloh’s final Louis Vuitton show last year. Last summer, the singer-songwriter’s first live show was in Paris supporting Robert Glasper and Yasiin Bey, he was featured on Lil Silva’s debut album on the track “About Us” and received support on Radio 1 from Benji B. Elmiene also recently performed at Glastonbury this past Friday on the BBC Introducing stage and showcased his talents with a COLORS performance earlier this year.
9. TOBi ft. Topaz Jones
Nigerian born, Los Angeles-based artist TOBidrops his new single and visualizer “All Night Long” featuring Topaz Jonesvia Same Plate Entertainment/RCA Records. Combining elements of R&B, hip hop, and soul, this latest single highlights TOBI’s signature genre-blurring artistry. “All Night Long” takes listeners on a playful journey through the track’s arresting lyricism, smooth production and grooving backbet.
TOBi on his single “All Night Long”: “I’ve wanted to work with Topaz since I found his album Don’t Go Tellin’ Your Mama. We wanted to make a record that was real celebratory because that’s the energy I wanted to put out in the moment. My producer Alex Goose pulled out a sample from Bleek that had a real triumphant feel to it. It felt like Roc-A-Fella in the early 2000s. A song that will bring life to any room it’s played in. That’s the goal and intention with ‘All Night Long.’ To speak power in our lyrics and the beat.”
Earlier this year, TOBi took home another Juno Award for Rap Album/EP of the Year for Shall I Continue? making this his second win following his 2020 album ELEMENTS Vol. 1that won the 2021 Rap Recording of the Year. Last year, his elevated COLORS performance of “Flowers” was released and his song “Move”was featured on Netflix’s Do Revenge starring Camila Mendes (Riverdale) and Maya Hawke (Stranger Things). Prior to this, “She Loves Me” and “Flowers,” he released hisAlex Goose-produced single and video “Before We Panic”featuring MikkyEkko (written forRihanna, A$AP Rocky, Drake), which was a prelude to his forthcoming album. The artistic visual was shot and directed by Dom McLennon (BROCKHAMPTON) and Jeremy Grier.
Stay tuned for more from TOBi coming soon.
10. Sekou – Out Of Mind
After the release of his critically acclaimed debut single “Better Man,” the time has finally come for Sekou to release his highly anticipated debut EP, Out Of Mind on 6/30. It will be led by the song and lyric video for “Forgiving Myself” produced by Sounwave (Kendrick Lamar, 6LACK). With “Better Man” being a vulnerable R&B ballad and “Forgiving Myself” taking on the dance floor, this 5-track project knows no bounds sonically. However, the one constant is the depth, range, and power packed into Sekou’s gifted voice. For this EP he’s collaborated with musical masterminds including the likes of Labrinth, Al Shux, Theron Thomas, and Yakob. Between his soulful mahogany tone, raspy passion and instantly affecting, addictive nature of his songwriting, his potential to join the big leagues of British pop stardom is significant.
This project marks the official introduction to the 18-year-old England native. Poised to be the next vocal powerhouse superstar from the UK – music enthusiast have related his extradentary voice to the likes of Adele and Sam Smith. However, with the release of his first EP Sekou says, “I wanted to do something where people weren’t going to compare me to anyone else. I’ve always wanted to dance & I always imagined having a great time with the crowd.”
Taking charge of his career through an impressive personal social media strategy, Sekou is building an organic global fanbase in real time while catching the attention of Anderson Paak, Arlo Parks, Bruno Mars, Dua Lipa, Fred Again, Post Malone, Quincy Jones and more. He’s seamlessly transferring the energy to real life and recently had a fan listening party for the EP in LA which was filled to the brim with people excited to hear his music. This followed him hosting listening parties in London and his hometown Ashby as well, selling out in seconds. Dubbed the new ‘voice of his generation’ by top industry tastemakers, he originally caught the world’s attention when he performed “Better Man” for the first time at BBC Music Introducing’s tent at Glastonbury Festival in 2022. Since then, he’s been featured in i-D, British GQ, and Vanity Far Italia after being invited to sit front row at the Valentino fashion show.
Inspired by the icons such as Michael Jackson, Beyonce, Prince, Chaka Chan and Whitney Houston – Sekou has his sights set on larger-than-life world domination. Out Of Mind is only step one of the plan, as he leaps into the light of a renowned recording artist. Please check out the EP, let us know your thoughts, and if you can share any coverage.
11. Nasty C – No More
Maintaining growing momentum this summer, South African rap sensation Nasty C unleashes a slick and swaggering new single and music video entitled “No More” today via Def Jam Recordings.
On the track, he locks into a fluid cadence punctuated by raw attitude. He proclaims, “I used to be a quitter. I’m not no more. So damn bitter. I’m not no more.” Leaning into the bounce, he drops head-nodding bars between this hypnotic hook. The accompanying visual translates this energy to the screen as Nasty C shines with charisma and confidence.
It lands in the wake of his first release of the year “Blackout.”The latter has already tallied over 553K Spotify streams and 324K YouTube views on the static audio. He recently guested on 4 Shooters Only and delivered a showstopping “From The Block Performance” of “Blackout.” In addition to plugs from the likes of HipHopSince1987 and more, Global Grind touted it among “This Week’s New Music Roundup.”
Meanwhile, last year’s Ivyson Army Tour Mixtape has cemented him as an artist-to-watch. Beyond tallying over 10 million-plus streams and counting, it incited the applause of tastemakers around the world. Upon arrival, DJ Booth hailed it as one of “5 New Albums You Need to Hear This Week on Audiomack” and exclaimed, “The South African rapper loosens up and celebrates a victory lap.” OkayAfrica touted it among “The 10 Best South African Songs of the Month” and noted, “Prolific rapper Nasty C boldly returns to his roots with the trap-centric Ivyson Army Tour Mixtape.” Meanwhile, HOT 97 hosted him for an in-depth on-air interview.
With a slew of popular projects under his belt and over 100 million streams, all signs point to a massive 2023 for NastyC.
12. Reggie Becton ft. Slim of 112 & Ye Ali – Rm 143 Remix
Following the release of his impassioned EP, SadBoy Vol. 1, Becton teams up with Grammy Award-winning songwriter Slim (of 112) and super producer Ye Ali (Doja Cat, Jack Harlow and Kehlani) for “RM 143 (RM 112 Remix).”
Previously, Reggie teamed up with Grammy-nominated recording artist Kenyon Dixon for a stimulating remix to the song. This time around, the young scribe transcends time and genre with a new verse from Slim of iconic R&B group 112. The resulting collaboration is a perfect blend of Reggie’s acoustic soul sensibilities and Slim’s supreme musicality. And together, the pair of crooners take “RM 143” to the next level.
To close out Black Music Month, and commemorate a significant milestone in his flourishing career (with the original version amassing over ten million streams), the remix combines new vocals from Reggie and Slim with a classic bad-boy spoken intro from Ye Ali that breathes new life into the record.
Not to mention, Reggie reconnects with Ye (Ali) for their second collaboration following 2020’s hit single “Right Time,” which currently boasts over 5 million streams across DSPs.
13. Skilla Baby ft. Luh Tyler – Millionaire
Rising Detroit rapper Skilla Baby links up with the burgeoning Florida star Luh Tyler in the video for “Millionaire,” one of the standout songs from Skilla’s We Eat the Most (Reloaded) via GEFFEN Records. “Millionaire” and We Eat the Most (Reloaded) are available now at all digital retailers.
While the triumphant “Millionaire” showcases both rappers’ unique vocal approaches and slyly clever writing styles, the video makes it clear just how bright the spotlight can shine. Constant camera flashes remind just how sought-after each MC’s presence is, while the money raining throughout a strip club answers the song’s central, taunting question: “What the fuck is 20,000 to a millionaire?”
We Eat the Most (Reloaded) arrived earlier this month in the wake of the menacing single “Ok Bet” the coinciding video which has over 2 Million views. In addition to Luh Tyler, the project pairs him with G Herbo, Rylo Rodriguez, and Babytron. The rapper previously made waves with 2022’s We Eat the Most and and Controversy, the full-length project that pairs Skilla with fellow Detroit native Tee Grizzley earlier in 2023.
A protege of hometown hero Sada Baby, Skilla is carving out a lane as one of the Motor City’s most distinct voices. Though just 24 years old, the MC has amassed an impressive body of work, beginning with Push That Shit Out Skilla, his careening debut album from 2019. Three tapes followed in 2022, Detroit Raised Me,and Crack Music 2, and We Eat the Most,underlining his reputation as one of the genre’s most enthralling and prolific artists.
14. Ryan Trey ft. Mariah The Scientist – AIn't Even Friends
Rising R&B sensation Ryan Trey has returned to give listeners another chapter in his book of love with a brand new single titled “Ain’t Even Friends” (#JUSTAREGULARLABEL/Interscope Records) featuring Atlanta songstress Mariah The Scientist. The track is a reflective, somber tune about the groiwng pains that come with a relationship that has run its course and what happens when both parties have no choice but to weather the storm while moving on.
“Ryan is so talented. I love the song and had a greta experience recording it and shooting the video,” Mariah said. “I hope everyone loves it as much as we do.”
The official music video directed by maliaSHUTup, accompanies the new track, perfectly capturing Trey and Mariah in their respective scenes pondering the aftermath of emptiness and heartbreak.
Ryan Trey is returning to the music scene after taking a slight hiatue following his fourthproject, A 64 East Saga, released in 2021. Since then, Trey linked up with Detroit spitter Babyface Ray on the standalone track “Only Us” in 2022 and went toe-to-toe with labelmate Jordan Ward on “WHITE CROCS” a year later. Trey has also been hard at work on his upcoming album that he’s been teasing on social media and getting ready to hit the road this summer with a string of live performances.
Ryan Trey will join Bryson Tiller on the remaining dates of his Back and i’m Better Tour in Toronto, Pittsburgh, and New York. Then the genre-bending artist will hit the fiery festival scene this summer with performances at Rolling Loud Miami and Broccoli City Festival in July.
15. Curren$y & Harry Fraud – VICES
Continuing the theme of their past fan favorites Cigarette Boats, The Stage, The Marina & The OutRunners (and its companion piece The Directors Cut) and most recently Regatta, Curren$y, and Harry Fraud have reunited once again for their new collaborative album VICES.
Curren$y & Harry Fraud’s VICESis produced in its entirety by Harry Fraud and includes collaborations with Benny The Butcher, Larry June, Jim Jones, Rome Streetz, & G.T.
“VICES is a musical ‘tip of the hat’ to all of the coolest bad guys from one of the best examples of 80’s television” Spitta remarks. “Let this serve as a time capsule from the times that shaped the Miami skyline and sparked an entire sub-culture that revolves around automobiles and fashion.”
“Sonically, it was important on VICES to tap into the nostalgia of the 80s; while maintaining the forward-thinking sound Spitta and I are known for. From our mutual tastes in cars to television of that era, it’s always a very organic undertaking” Harry Fraud reveals. “VICES is the next chapter in the catalog of moments we began capturing over a decade ago.”
16. Conway the Machine ft. Benny the Butcher & 38 Spesh – Lalo
The promised Drumwork takeover is in full effect, as Conway The Machine returned with Won’t He Do It, joined Jae Skeese for their collaborative project Pain Provided Profit and Jae Skeese’ released his Drumwork debut album Abolished Uncertainties.
After releasing the album’s first single, “Elephant Man,” and also announcing the inaugural Drumwork Records Compilation album Conway The Machine Presents: Drumwork The Album,The Machine is back with a new single, “Lalo,” and news on the album’s official release date. “Lalo” which features Benny The Butcher and 38 Spesh is now available!
“With “Lalo,” I wanted to drop something crazy that would fu*k the streets up all summer” Conway proclaimed about his new single. Mission accomplished.
Conway The Machine Presents: Drumwork The Album features appearances from Conway The Machine, and Drumwork’s young shooters Jae Skeese, 7xvethegenius, Goosebytheway, SK Da ing and Shots Almigh, with additional contributions from Benny The Butcher, Rome Streetz, 38 Spesh, Heem, Elcamino, D.Smoke, & Bangladesh.
Conway The Machine Presents:Drumwork The Album will be released on July 7.
17. Felix Ames – Bend, Don't Break
Following millions of independent streams and widespread acclaim from OnesToWatch, Lyrical Lemonade, and many more, buzzing Milwaukee soul phenomenon Felix Ames presents a brand new two-pack—comprised of “Bend, Don’t Break” and “Shoestring”—out now. It marks his official debut for Def Jam Recordings.
“Bend, Don’t Break” illuminates the magic of his approach, blurring the lines between R&B, jazz, and soul spiked with just the right amount of guitar virtuosity. A funky bass line thumps beneath soulful verses punctuated by sparse percussion. Amidst flights of falsetto, he makes a confession, “I’m just too stuck in my ways to see you bend, don’t break for me,” before observing, “Maybe this life we built just ain’t built for me.” He leans into the production with raw emotion as a warbling guitar solo carries the last crescendo to the heavens.
Stay tuned for the premiere of a fittingly striking and sultry visual.
Meanwhile, “Shoestring” remains a fan favorite. It has already piled up 2.5 million Spotify streams and counting. Earmilk applauded it as “a tour-de-force for a very fresh face in the musical landscape.”
Right now, he’s also preparing more music for release very soon.
Felix Ames quietly asserted himself as a soul maverick in 2022. Reupping old school spirit with 21st century flare, seismic vocals, and sonic fireworks of his own, he piled up millions of streams across “Shoestring,” “SPF,” and “7711.”Inciting widespread critical acclaim from the likes of Early Rising and more, OnesToWatch raved, “We’re all salivating to see what’s born from Ames’ continued evolution,” and Lyrical Lemonade attested, “Felix Ames is definitely an artist to watch.” Signing to Def Jam Recordings, he’s poised to make a major impact now.
18. Felix Ames – Shoestring
19. Haiti Babii – Yo Baby Mama Ugly
Haiti Babiirose up out of Stockton, CA and into the conversation as a tried-and-true West Coast contender. He made waves with otherworldly freestyles, catching the endorsement of everyone from Rihanna andChance the Rapper to Meek Mill. He translated hardship into hypnotic hooks, going gold independently on the 2020 breakout “Change Ya Life.” Over the course of four independent albums, he has evolved rapidly as a force in hip-hop. In addition to hundreds of millions of streams, he has earned praise from The FADER, Flaunt, HYPEBEAST, and many more. Beyond his inimitable signature sound, he co-founded Bad Domination Entertainment (BDE) with his brother Reg a.k.a. “Sauce” as a family-run in-house production company, creating beats, music videos, and more.
20. Loveboat Luciano – Parole
BIG BSF and the Buffalo Kids are back. After releasing his debut BSF project IBTS2 (Institutionalized By The Streets 2) in 2020, Loveboat Luciano has since been prominently featured and platformed on every BSF project since his initiation.
Boat has released his sophomore BSF album, Parole, which is now available, and a new visual for “Exonerated,” which features appearances from Benny The Butcher and his Big BSF label mates.
Loveboat Luciano’s Parole features collaborations with BSF Capo Benny The Butcher, Conway The Machine, Dave East, DJ Clue, Che Noir, and his BSF brethren Rick Hyde, Heem and ElCamino.
21. Albee Al – I'm From Marion (Deluxe Edition)
Albee Al doubles down on his was dubbed the Jersey City Gladiator throughout his career, but specifically, his home will always be Marion Projects. I’m From Marion is his declaration that anything is possible. The deluxe edition provides extra tracks that cover his maturation from his harsh upbringing to becoming one of EMPIRE’s many superstars.
One of the newer tracks on the deluxe album version, “My Heart Frozen” featuring Millyz, covers how desensitized Albee became to the superstar lifestyle. In the introduction, Albee states he sees through the fake handshakes and fake hugs. Then, he acknowledges how he’s no longer the same person from the past and how the fast lifestyle doesn’t phase him like it used to. Millyz’ verse covers his story of overcoming the street lifestyle that contains hard drugs and avoiding legal matters. Millyz’ heart is frozen towards the people that weren’t around him while he was facing those adversities.
The extra tracks also contain the remix of Albee’s “Sturdy” featuring some of drill rap’s fastest rising superstars in Tay Savage, Rah Swish, and MG Ant. Additional features on the deluxe album includes KaMillion, Leaf Ward, Shani Boni, and Lil Tjay. Since the release of the initial I’m From Marion album, Albee’s visual for “TOP OPP” with Lil Tjay has 484k views on YouTube in the first month.
22. J French – MERCI
“Merci” is from Dallas, Texas-based, Oklahoma City-born rapper, multi-instrumentalist, and producer J French‘s latest album All Love. The new music video follows the success of French’s “Breakfast” single (from his previous album Good Karma), which has seen placements in videos and ads for major brands, including the NBA, Footlocker, Dallas Cowboys and, most recently, Jake Paul’s highly anticipated return to YouTube that boasts more than 1.1 Million views to date.
23. Tone Stith – Girls Like You
Rising R&B singer, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Tone Stith shares his smooth new single and visualizer “Girls Like You” via RCA Records.
On the single, Tone shares:“Imagine, being in a relationship. Taking time, growing with someone. Learning their ticks and things that make them feel satisfied. After all that effort, you find out that whole time they been fucking around on you with someone else! Just like that, trust issues, heartbreak… Swear it felt like someone stabbed me with a knife, and kept it turning…”
This latest release is a follow-up from Tone’s previous released fan favorite track “B.E.D” in 2022 and his seven-track project StillFWM, which came out in October of 2021. “B.E.D” and Still FWM displays his smooth vocals and honest lyrics while immersing you into the world of R&B with hints of pop and hip-hop. These releases are a continuation of that and cements Tone Stith’s status as a quadruple-threat in the entertainment industry. Not only can he play various instruments such as drums, piano and guitar, but as a songwriter, Tone has penned numerous chart-topping hits, including Chris Brown’s “Liquor,” “Make Love” and “Undecided.” Although he has many accolades collaborating with others, Stith’s solo music allows him to shine the brightest with his incomparable falsetto and raw talent. With his forthcoming EP, Tone Stith is ready to take his place as an R&B mainstay.
Stay tuned for more from Tone Stith coming soon.
24. Jon Wiilde – High More Often
Get your Independence Day BBQ playlists ready! Sacramento-born artist, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Jon Wiilde has released his masterful ‘High More Often’ EP, which includes a seasonally appropriate focus track, “Not Another Summer Jam”.
‘High More Often’ is Wiilde’s first real swing of the bat in a few years. When asked what inspired this body of work, he mused, “it’s called High More Often because I’ve been high more often.” That dichotomy of perspective has enabled Jon to explore sonic boundaries that touch on pop, psychedelic rock, golden era hip-hop, and even a splash of funk. All while maintaining a sense of self throughout and being true to root.
“This feels like an introduction to the world” he says. “Like the start of something. I don’t feel like I fit comfortably into one genre or box and always have trouble answering the question ‘what kind of music do you make?’ I just answer with ‘good music I hope.’ And that’s what I feel the music is here to do. It’s an encompassment of life. Life isn’t one mood or energy. It isn’t all tears or all laughs. It’s this wonderful harmony of it all, and when we accept it, we get to be vulnerable and confident in it all at the same time. We’re figuring it out and having fun on the ride. And I’m here for the fuckin’ ride man. Much Love.”
Wiilde, known for his captivating videos, consistently raised the bar with each new single released this year. He began with the powerful anthem “Quit Your Job” capturing the spirit of the great resignation. Following that, he delivered a cinematic masterpiece titled “Carry On,” featuring a hilariously retro buddy cop themed music video. Wiilde’s described his third release, “This Is War,” as a record that sonically sits somewhere between dancing and crying at the same time… “Like if Tame Impala gave you a little Molly (but not too much) and sent you to the dance floor.” The accompanying video maintained his 1970s aesthetic while portraying an eerily deserted SoCal town as the backdrop.
He continues his trend of entertaining videos with “Not Another Summer Jam”. With production from Doja Cat collaborator and producer Tizhimself alongside MYBOYROACH, ‘Not Another Summer Jam’ is a fun sing-a-long vibe reminiscent of the mid-2000’s. The video evokes the essence of the song, with a nod to black comedy adventure film ‘Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas’.. “The benefit of being jobless is you get to do whatever you want. Whenever you want. Smoke weed, hang with your lover, enjoy the summer. Have fun. Jam out. Be a human being,” explains Wiilde.
25. Jimmy October – Rum & Calypso
Rising singer-songwriter Jimmy October drops an intoxicating visual for his brand new second single “Rum & Calypso”. October hails from the small Caribbean island of Trinidad & Tobago – the musical and cultural hub that is home to the steel pan, arguably the best Carnivals in the world, and the birthplace of Calypso and Soca music (the latter is commemorating its 50th anniversary this year).
His celebratory song “Rum & Calypso,” produced by Tano & Brooklyn Decent, boasts the island’s pulsating rhythms mixed with R&B, Afrobeats and Dancehall and pays homage to another one of the island’s treasures – its famed spirits beverage.
With October’s native melodies at the baseline, his seamless multi-genre blend is a window into Trinidad & Tobago’s new sound. Jimmy October’s forward fusion of music is reimagining what Calypso sounds and looks like for the next generation. This fluidity shows in his style and sound.
October explains that ” ‘Rum & Calypso’ is me pushing the New Calypso sound a bit further. I’m blurring the lines between these genres that continue to inspire me. I’m always trying to find dope ways to make music that feels like home, while at the same time build a world around what I think the future of the Caribbean feels like and sounds like.”
“There’s a particular feeling that Tano, Brooklyn Decent and I were going for when we were making this record. It was that late 90’s and early 2000’s era when I heard “Girls Dem Sugar” from Beenie Man & Mya or “Like Glue” from Sean Paul. It is a still a feeling that lingers in me. That’s the vibrations we’re sending out to the universe with this one,” he adds.
Jimmy October will continue to drop new singles throughout the summer in preparation for his forthcoming sophomore EP slated for release later this year.
“Rum & Calypso” is available now on all platforms via Ineffable Records.
26. Dave East ft. G-Eazy – WDGAF
Back with more heat, GRAMMY Award-nominated gold-selling Harlem rap phenomenon, model, actor, and storytellerDave Eastserves up an anthemic new single and music video entitled “WDGAF”[feat. G-Eazy] out now via Def Jam Recordings. It sets the stage for his anxiously awaited second full-length album, Fortune Favors The Bold, arriving on July 14.
“WDGAF” notably stands out as the first collaboration between Dave and G-Eazy. Powered up by production from none other than Mike WiLL Made-It [Kendrick Lamar, Beyoncé], these two top-tier rappers ignite an energetic lyrical volley. Following confident and catchy verses, the momentum builds towards an instantly chantable chorus, “When they see me in the street, they be calling out my name. Back the fuck up, they keep fogging up my frames.” Meanwhile, the video visually projects this vibe.
About the song, Dave said, “That joint is a bop. It’s a different tempo and sound I’ve never tapped into. I’m bragging, and you can’t shut me up! I’d never collaborated with G-Eazy before, and it was mad fun.”
Meanwhile, Fortune Favors The Bold sees Dave level up all around. The hooks hit harder, and the stories cut deeper as he delivers a potent, pummeling, and powerful body of work. The title was inspired by one of the tattoos on Keanu Reeves in the John Wick film franchise.
“I Googled John Wick’s tattoo,” he goes on. “I thought about what Fortune Favors The Boldmeant to me, and it totally fit the album. I had to be bold to continue doing what I’m doing and dealing with all of the hate, the love, and the shit I’ve dealt with. I never let it affect my journey. I’ve seen a lot of fortune I didn’t know I was going to see by being bold and not taking ‘No’ for an answer. This is a statement.”
He initially bulldozed the way for the record with “Rich Problems.”It has already amassed 220K Spotify streams and 469K YouTube views on the music video. Right out of the gate, HotNewHipHop hailed it as “a hard-hitting new song that delivers exactly what it promises,” and HipHopDX proclaimed, “the track hears him get reflective as he raps about how fame and glamour have tried to corrupt him over the years.” In addition to plugs from the likes of Rap Radar and more, The Source put it best, “‘Rich Problems’ showcases Dave East’s lyrical prowess and ability to blend personal reflection with captivating visuals seamlessly.”
Get ready for Dave to spit truth on Fortune Favors The Bold.
