This month , The 2020 Soul Train Music Awards took place and aired live on BET, BET HER, Vh1 and MTV2 to recognize the best in soul, R&B and Hip-Hop music. The ceremony was hosted by actors Tisha Campbell & Tichina Arnold for the third time this year in a row . The nominations were announced on November 11, 2020 with H.E.R. leading with eight nominations, followed by Chris Brown with seven nominations only .
Soul Cypher this year is all ’bout quality within’ the artists that takin’ part of it , Live Performances are amazin’, New Artists & Legendary as well , all in one show .
Written by Cameron Devaun Murphy, Christopher Brown, Dounia Aznou, Jeffrey Lamar Williams, Johnny Kelvin, Kaniel Castaneda, Omari Akinlolu, OrvilleHall, Patrizio Pigliapoco, Phillip Price, Said Aznou, Soraya Benjelloun, Tre Samuels, Turell Sims, Wayne Samuels, Zakaria Kharbouch
They’re my favorite Hip-Hop Group , During the years since their breakthrough in ’93 , Working with various artists like John Legend , Erykah Badu , Common , Bilal , Musiq Soulchild among many others.
Combining Hip Hop with a touch of jazz , neo-soul ,funk and more
My Own DJ Sets are dedicating to the group and fans like me around the world , Listen Below links and Enjoy 🙂
They also the band of Jimmy Fallon’s “The Tonight Show” , Running their own Picnic show during the last years , This year during COVID-19 period , they’ve made an annual Picnic for 2020 and featured many artists including new artists as well.
The Roots are known for a jazzy and eclectic approach to hip-hop featuring live musical instruments and the group’s work has consistently been met with critical acclaim. ThoughtCo ranked the band #7 on its list of the 25 Best Hip-Hop Groups of All-Time, calling them “Hip-hop’s first legitimate band.”
In addition to the band’s music, several members of the Roots are involved in side projects, including record production, acting, and regularly serving as guests on other musicians’ albums and live shows.
1987–93: Early years
Black Thought with the Roots in 1999
The Roots originated in Philadelphia with Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson and Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter while they were both attending the Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts. They would busk out on the street corners with Questlove playing bucket drums and Tariq rapping over his rhythms. Their first organized gig was a talent show in 1989 at the school where they used the name Radio Activity, which began a series of name changes that progressed through Black to the Future and then The Square Roots.Another MC, Malik B., and a permanent bass player, Leonard “Hub” Hubbard, were added to the band before the release of their first album. In 1992, they dropped the “Square” from “Square Roots” because a local folk group had claim to the name.
Unable to break through in their native Philadelphia, the band briefly moved to London, where they would release their 1993 debut, Organix. The album was released and sold independently. In the span of a year, the band developed a cult following in Europe, boosted by touring. The Roots would receive offers from music labels, and the band eventually signed with DGC/Geffen.
1994–97: Do You Want More?!!!??! and Illadelph Halflife
The Roots’ first album for DGC, Do You Want More?!!!??!, was released the following year (1995 in the United States). During the recording process, beatboxer Rahzel and keyboardist Scott Storch, joined the band. The addition of the two members provided additional depth to the band’s sound, and energized the Roots’ Philadelphia jam sessions, which the band would later sample for songs on Do You Want More?!!!??!. The album’s opening track features Black Thought introducing the band’s sound as “organic hip hop jazz,” and indeed; the album is characterized by a combination of contemporary East Coast hip hop and jazz influences, with a heavy reliance on Storch’s Fender Rhodes and the occasional saxophone of guest musician Steve Coleman. The album spawned three singles with accompanying videos: “Proceed,” “Distortion to Static,” and “Silent Treatment.” The album was a moderate hit among alternative music fans, boosted by the group’s appearance at Lollapalooza. In 1995, the band performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival. In the years since its release, Do You Want More?!!!??! has come to be considered to be a classic jazz rap album.
The Roots in 1999
The 1996 release Illadelph Halflife was the group’s third album and their first to break the Top 40 on the Billboard 200 chart, spurred in part by MTV’s airplay of the video for “What They Do” (a parody of rap video clichés) and “Clones”, which was their first single to reach the top five on the rap charts. The band added “What They Do” was also the group’s first single to hit the Top 40 of Billboard’s charts, reaching a peak of #34. Scott Storch left the band and was replaced by a new keyboardist, Kamal Gray. The band’s sound would take a darker turn during this period, heavily influenced by the Wu-Tang Clan and the RZA‘s grimy and haunting production style, replete with samples from old jazz and classical music. The album is also notable for its many guests and collaborators, including Common, D’Angelo, Q-Tip, and others. These collaborations would provide the foundation for the creation of the Soulquarians and permanently forged the Roots’ association with the neo-soul subgenre.
1998–00: Breakthrough with Things Fall Apart
The group released Things Fall Apart in 1999 (named after Things Fall Apart, a novel by Chinua Achebe, which in turn was named after a line from “The Second Coming” by W.B. Yeats). This was their breakthrough album, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 charts and earning a gold record, signifying U.S. sales of at least 500,000 units. The album was eventually certified platinum in April 2013. Mos Def contributed to the track entitled “Double Trouble”. The track “Act Two” features African-Belgian band Zap Mama and Common. The track “You Got Me“, a duet with R&B singer Erykah Badu and Eve and Jill Scott intended by Black Thought for the “unconscious” population,[9] peaked at No. 39 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. At the 42nd Grammy Awards “You Got Me” won the award for Best Rap Performance By a Duo or Group and the album was nominated for Best Rap Album.
Steve Huey of the website allmusic.com perceived “a strong affinity for the neo-soul movement” in the album. First-time cameos on Things Fall Apart for Philadelphia natives Beanie Sigel and Eve helped to earn them major record deals later (with Roc-A-Fella and Ruff Ryders, respectively). After this album, Dice Raw left the collective to record his solo debut album Reclaiming the Dead. In the summer, the band performed at the Woodstock ’99 concert in New York state.
He’s a True R&B Singer , With a voice that reminds me and hopefully for some of y’all The Voice Of Prince with a lil’ jazz , gospel and soul vibes .
Working with Producer\R&B Singer\Song-Writer , Raphael Saadiq (Toni,Tony Tone!) a Part of The New-Soul Group , The Soulquarians , Worked with artists such as Rapsody ,GZA (Wu-Tang Clan) , Method Man (Wu-Tang Clan) , Lauryn Hill , Jazz Artist Roy Hargrove R.I.P , The Roots among many others .
Here’s The Story Of The Black Messiah , Michael Eugene Archer aka D’Angelo .
Born at February 11, 1974 , He’s a songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and record producer. D’Angelo is associated with the neo soul movement, along with artists like Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Maxwell, and collaborator Angie Stone.
Born in Richmond, Virginia, He’s The Son of a Pentecostal minister, D’Angelo taught himself piano as a child. At eighteen, he won the amateur talent competition at Harlem’s Apollo Theater three weeks in a row. After a brief affiliation with hip-hop group I.D.U., his first major success came in 1994 as the co-writer and co-producer of the song “U Will Know”.
In 1995 , He released his debut solo album, Brown Sugar , received positive reviews and sold over two million copies. His next album, Voodoo (2000), debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200. Its lead single Untitled (How Does It Feel), entered the R&B charts and won a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal; likewise, Voodoo won Best R&B Album. D’Angelo was hailed as the next Marvin Gaye by GQ in 2014.
Following the release of the music video for “Untitled (How Does It Feel)”, he became more than uncomfortable with his growing status as a sex symbol. This was followed by numerous personal struggles including alcoholism, and a fourteen-year long musical hiatus.
In December 2014, D’Angelo released his third studio album, Black Messiah. The album was met with critical acclaim and fared well on music charts, peaking at number five on the US Billboard 200. He also contributed to the soundtrack for the 2018 video game Red Dead Redemption 2, performing the song “Unshaken” .
He was raised in an entirely Pentecostal family. Archer’s musical talents were discovered very early on. At 3, he was spotted by his 10-year-old brother Luther, playing the house piano. Following the formation of his native-Richmond, Virginia musical group, Michael Archer and Precise, and its success on the Amateur Night competition at Harlem, New York’s Apollo Theater in 1991, the 18-year-old singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist dropped out of school and moved to New York City, as an attempt to develop his music career.The group previously enjoyed some notice in Richmond, evenly dividing their repertoire between soul covers and originals, while D’Angelo accumulated compositions of his own and developed his songwriting skills. The group’s turnout on Amateur Night resulted in three consecutive wins and cash prize, after which, upon returning home to Richmond, D’Angelo was inspired to produce an album and began composing material,after a brief tenure as a member of the hip hop group I.D.U. (Intelligent, Deadly but Unique).
What REALLY Happened to D’Angelo?
Personal Life
In the 1990’s, he dated soul singer Angie Stone and helped produce her debut album Black Diamond in 1999. They have a son, named Michael D’Angelo Archer II, born in 1998.
They’ve worked with Busta Rhymes , Consequence , R&B Singers Tammy Lucas , Faith Evans , Raphael Saadiq among others.
Sampling Bob Dylan’s “A Walk On The Wild Side” which became a hit single “Can I Kick It” , Sampling late R&B\Soul Singer Minnie Ripperton of her song “Inside My Love” which got a twisted vibe on “Lyrics To Go” among more other samples they used on their songs.
This is a story of 4 friends from Queens, New York which became legends .
A Tribe Called Quest (ATCQ) – A.E.I.O.U and sometimes Y…
In 1991, the group released its jazz-influenced second album, The Low End Theory, regarded for helping shape alternative hip hop in the 1990s. In 1998, the group broke up shortly before releasing its fifth album, The Love Movement, but in 2006, the group’s original members reunited and toured the United States. In 2016, the group released its sixth and final album, We Got It from Here… Thank You 4 Your Service, which was still incomplete when Phife Dawg died suddenly in March 2016, and was completed by the other members after his death. A Tribe Called Quest was the most commercially successful act in the Native Tongues collective, with all six of its albums certified either gold or platinum.
1985–1990: Formation, Native Tongues and People’s Instinctive Travels
The neighborhood of St. Albans, Queens, where Tip and Phife grew up together.
Q-Tip (Kamaal Fareed) and Phife Dawg (Malik Taylor) were childhood friends who grew up together in the St. Albans neighborhood of Queens, New York City. Initially, Q-Tip performed as a battle rapper, under the name MC Love Child, occasionally teaming up with high school friend Ali Shaheed Muhammad as a rapper and DJ duo.In 1985, the duo began making demos over Q-Tip’s pause tape beats. Phife Dawg later joined them, though he didn’t become a full member until neighborhood friend Jarobi White joined; the group dubbed themselves “Crush Connection” and later “Quest”. The group’s final name, A Tribe Called Quest, was coined in 1988 by Jungle Brothers, who attended the same high school as Q-Tip and Muhammad; that year, Q-Tip made his first recorded appearances on Jungle Brothers’ songs “Black Is Black” and “The Promo”. Shortly after, A Tribe Called Quest, Jungle Brothers, De La Soul, Queen Latifah and Monie Love formed the Native Tongues collective, known for their like-minded Afrocentrism, positivity and eclectic sampling. In 1989, Phife Dawg made his first recorded appearance on the song “Buddy (Native Tongue Decision)”, the remix of De La Soul’s single “Buddy“.
In early 1989, they signed a demo deal with Geffen Records and produced a five-song demo, which included future single “I Left My Wallet in El Segundo“.Geffen decided against offering the group a recording contract, and the group was granted permission to shop for a deal elsewhere. After receiving lucrative offers for multi-album deals from a variety of labels, the group opted for a modest deal offered by Jive Records. Jive was then known as an independent rap label that partly owed its success to building the careers of artists Boogie Down Productions and Too Short. Later that year, the group released their first 12″ single, “Description of a Fool”.
Their debut album, People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm, released on April 10, 1990, It was marked by a playful lyrical approach and light-hearted content such as safe sex, vegetarianism and youthful experiences. The music was an eclectic mix of jazz, funk, soul and rock samples. The album was met with critical acclaim; The Source rated it five mics, becoming the first album to receive the magazine’s highest rating.NME‘s review stated that “This is not rap, it’s near perfection.” The album only gained momentum after the release of the singles “Bonita Applebum” and “Can I Kick It?“, eventually achieving gold certification in 1996.
1991–1993: The Low End Theory, Midnight Marauders and commercial success
Phife Dawg’s breakout performance on The Low End Theory marked the beginning of the group’s successful run in the 1990s
A Tribe Called Quest’s second album, The Low End Theory, was released on September 24, 1991, with “Check the Rhime” as the lead single; the song largely established the lyrical interplay between Q-Tip and Phife Dawg. Until then, most of the group’s songs had only featured vocals by Q-Tip, but Q-Tip encouraged Phife Dawg to increase his participation despite his recent diabetes diagnosis. Musically, the album fused hip hop with the laid-back atmosphere of jazz, particularly bebop and hard bop, combined with a minimalist approach to production that stripped the sound down to vocals, drums and bass. Mixing engineer Bob Power played a major role on the album, as he was tasked with removing surface noise and static that is typically heard on hip hop songs sampled from old vinyl records. During the recording sessions, White left the group to pursue a career in culinary arts.
Lyrically, the group focused on a range of social issues, from date rape (“The Infamous Date Rape”) to consumerism (“Skypager”), while also criticizing the hip hop industry on several songs. Guests on the album included Leaders of the New School, Brand Nubian, Vinia Mojica and Ron Carter, who played double bass on the song “Verses from the Abstract”. Additional singles included “Jazz (We’ve Got)” and “Scenario“; a live performance of “Scenario” with Leaders of the New School on The Arsenio Hall Show led to greater popularity. Leaders member Busta Rhymes attracted attention with his verse in the song, which led to him launching a successful solo career.
The Low End Theory received widespread acclaim from critics.The Source gave the group its second consecutive five mic rating, praising their “progressive sound” and “streetwise edge”, also noting that “Those who questioned Phife’s microphone techniques on the first album will swallow those doubts as he practically steals the show on this one.” The album peaked at #45 on the Billboard 200 and was certified gold on February 19, 1992; it reached platinum status by 1995. In the aftermath of their success, the group contributed the song “Hot Sex” to the soundtrack for the film Boomerang in 1992.
A Tribe Called Quest released their third album, Midnight Marauders, on November 9, 1993. The lead single, “Award Tour“, became the group’s highest charting single and helped to land the album at #8 on the Billboard 200. The production, still rooted in jazz, was a return to the eclectic sounds found on People’s Instinctive Travels, with a more prominent funk influence, including grittier drums. The voice of a “tour guide”, on the intro and at the end of several tracks, added further cohesion to the album.
Midnight Marauders saw improved lyrical interplay between Phife Dawg and Q-Tip,[31] as evidenced on the singles “Electric Relaxation” and “Oh My God“; the popularity of “Electric Relaxation” led to it becoming the opening theme song for the sitcom The Wayans Bros., from 1995 to 1996.Topics on the album include police harassment (“Midnight”), religious faith (“God Lives Through”), hip hop (“We Can Get Down”) and use of the word nigga (“Sucka Nigga”).Guests on the album include Large Professor, Busta Rhymes and Raphael Saadiq (credited as Raphael Wiggins).
The album received widespread acclaim from critics.Entertainment Weekly called the album “as fresh as their first”,while Melody Maker stated “A Tribe Called Quest have expanded their vision with a lyrical gravitas and a musical lightness of touch that has hitherto eluded them across a whole album”. The album was ranked #21 by The Village Voice in that year’s Pazz & Jop critics’ poll. Midnight Marauders became A Tribe Called Quest’s fastest-selling album; it was certified platinum on January 11, 1995, only 14 months after its release.
1994–1995: Intermission and the Ummah
In 1994, at The Source Awards, Tupac Shakur performed his song “Out on Bail”, interrupting A Tribe Called Quest as they accepted the award for Group of the Year; it was later found that this apparent act of disrespect was accidental. That summer, the group performed as one of a handful of hip hop acts on the Lollapalooza tour, among acts such as The Smashing Pumpkins, Stereolab and The Verve.While on tour, keyboardist Amp Fiddler introduced Q-Tip to a young producer from Detroit named Jay Dee. At the suggestion of Q-Tip, Jay Dee later joined him and Muhammad, forming a production unit known as The Ummah (Arabic for “the [worldwide] Muslim community”), in which each member produced songs individually and received a songwriting credit for their work. The Ummah handled the production of The Tribe’s two albums.
During this period, group members contributed to several notable outside projects with production and guest verses. Phife Dawg, who rapped on “Oh My God” that he owned “more condoms than TLC“, made an appearance on the song “Intro-lude” from that group’s album, CrazySexyCool, in 1994.That year, Q-Tip produced the single “One Love” from Nas‘ debut album Illmatic and appeared on the song “Get It Together” by Beastie Boys, from their album Ill Communication. In 1995, Muhammad co-produced the single “Brown Sugar” from D’Angelo‘s debut album of the same name, and Q-Tip produced three songs for Mobb Deep while serving as a mixing engineer for their album The Infamous.The group contributed “Glamour and Glitz” to The Show: The Soundtrack that year, before returning the following year with their next album.
1996–1998: Beats, Rhymes and Life, The Love Movement and breakup
Q-Tip’s conversion to Islam in the mid-1990s influenced the philosophical direction of the group’s music on Beats, Rhymes and Life
Beats, Rhymes and Life, the group’s fourth album, was released on July 30, 1996, supported by the singles “1nce Again” and “Stressed Out“. It was recorded during the turbulent East Coast–West Coast hip hop rivalry, with the tracks “Get a Hold”, “Keeping It Moving” and “Baby Phife’s Return” referring to it The Ummah’s production style, a minimalist R&B and jazz-infused sound, was a departure from the group’s previous albums. Jay Dee, a big fan of A Tribe Called Quest, contributed five beats to the album, including both singles.Lyrically, the album featured a less playful, more philosophical approach by the group.Consequence, Q-Tip’s cousin, and an aspiring rapper, was present on six songs.Phife Dawg later stated that this was when he began to lose interest in the group:
I really felt like with Midnight Marauders I came into my own. By the time when Beats, Rhymes and Life came out I started feelin’ like I didn’t fit in any more. Q-Tip and Ali had converted to Islam and I didn’t. Music felt like a job; like I was just doin’ it to pay bills. I never want my music to feel like just a job. They would schedule studio time at the last minute. I’d catch a plane from Atlanta to be in New York and when I got to the studio, no one would be there. They would have canceled the session without telling me. Seemed like the management was concerned with other folks not me. But I never lost my confidence.
The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and went gold before the end of the year; it was certified platinum in 1998.Critical reception was divided, but mostly positive; Rolling Stone called the album “near-flawless”, while The Source awarded it four mics.Melody Maker felt that it provided “both their best and worst thus far.” It was nominated for Best Rap Album and “1nce Again” was nominated for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group at the 1997 Grammy Awards.
In 1997, the group appeared on the soundtrack Men in Black: The Album, with the song “Same Ol’ Thing”. In Europe, they released The Jam EP, which included the aforementioned song, “Mardi Gras at Midnight” (featuring Rah Digga) and two songs from Beats, Rhymes and Life, “Get a Hold” and “Jam”. That year also saw the first reunion of the three Native Tongues groups since 1989, when Jungle Brothers invited A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul to guest on “How Ya Want It We Got It”, a song from their album Raw Deluxe.
A month before The Love Movement was released on September 29, 1998, the group announced that it would be their final album The group cited their frustration with Jive as a significant factor in the breakup. The album, which was centered on the theme of love, was promoted by the single “Find a Way“, a song that “innocently wonders about the point at which friendship spills over into sex.” Musically, the album saw the return of The Ummah’s stripped-down production style from Beats, Rhymes and Life. Guest appearances by Busta Rhymes, Redman and Noreaga helped to balance the subdued tone of the album.
The Love Movement was certified gold on November 1, 1998, just over a month after its release. Critical reception was mostly positive; Rolling Stone remarked that “the mature, accomplished niceness of The Love Movement proves that the Tribe still have the skills – they’re just short on thrills.The album was nominated for Best Rap Album at the 1999 Grammy Awards.
1999–2005: Solo projects and brief return to recording
Under the management of Violator, Q-Tip launched a successful solo career, which saw two Billboard Hot 100 hits, “Vivrant Thing” and “Breathe and Stop“, and the release of the gold-certified album Amplified in late 1999.The album featured production by Q-Tip, Jay Dee and DJ Scratch. Despite receiving mostly positive reviews, the album was criticized by the hip hop community for its mainstream sound. The most notable of Q-Tip’s critics was Phife Dawg, who took his former partner to task on his solo album Ventilation: Da LP, released in 2000.Hi-Tek-produced lead single, “Flawless“, contained the lines “Go ‘head, play yourself with them ho-like hooks / sing ballads if it’s all about the Maxwell look”.Ventilation included production by Jay Dee and Pete Rock.
Teaming up with two other artists from former groups, Raphael Saadiq of Tony! Toni! Toné! and Dawn Robinson of En Vogue, Muhammad’s next project was Lucy Pearl. The group scored two hit singles with “Dance Tonight” and “Don’t Mess with My Man“, from their self-titled album, which was certified gold a few months after its release in 2000. Following a dispute between Saadiq and Robinson, the latter left the group and was replaced by Joi; however, this new incarnation would only last for the remainder of touring.
In 2001, Q-Tip changed directions and recorded Kamaal the Abstract, an album which saw him in the role of singer and bandleader. Unlike his work with A Tribe Called Quest, or his previous solo work, Kamaal was constructed around live music and abstract song concepts. Arista Records refused to release the album, doubting its commercial potential, resulting in Q-Tip leaving the label.The following year, he recorded the song “What Lies Beneath” for the Soundbombing III compilation, in which he responded to Phife Dawg’s comments on “Flawless”.
In 2003, Q-Tip and Phife Dawg put aside their differences and A Tribe Called Quest briefly returned to the studio, recording the song “I C U (Doin’ It)”, featuring Erykah Badu. It was intended to be the first single from the Violator compilation, V3: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly, however, the album was not released. Undeterred by the shelving of Kamaal the Abstract, Q-Tip recorded Open in late 2003, planning to release it the next year. It featured contributions from André 3000, Common and D’Angelo.However, his label, DreamWorks Records, got bought out by Universal Music Group, which eventually led to Open also getting shelved.
On August 27, 2004, A Tribe Called Quest headlined the Street Scene music festival in San Diego.Muhammad focused on developing a stable of artists, most of whom were showcased on his debut solo album, Shaheedullah and Stereotypes, released later that year. In 2005, the group received the Founders Award at the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Awards in Atlanta.
2006–2013: Reunion and touring
In 2006, the group reunited as a touring band, in part, to help Phife Dawg with his mounting medical expenses.They co-headlined that year’s Bumbershoot festival in Seattle and performed several sold-out concerts in the U.S., Canada and Japan. The group also appeared on the 2K Sports Bounce Tour, promoting the NBA 2K7 video game, with a Dan the Automator remix of their song “Lyrics to Go” appearing on the game’s soundtrack. According to Phife Dawg at the time, A Tribe Called Quest planned to release an album, as they owed Jive one more in their six-album contract. Speaking about the possibility of a new album showing up that year, Phife Dawg said:
Man, we was only 18–19 when we first got started. [When] we broke up we were still like 28. Now we are 35–36. It’d be real different being in the studio. It would be real interesting to see where Q-Tip is. It would all be on a much higher level. But we are all into such different stuff from way back then. We’d need at least a solid month to work on something. Trying to get all of us together for that much time … I don’t see that happening.
The group co-headlined the 2010 Rock the Bells tour. Phife Dawg planned to release his follow-up album, Songs in the Key of Phife: Volume 1 (Cheryl’s Big Son), that year; however, his health issues delayed the release of the album. In 2012, Q-Tip signed to Kanye West‘s GOOD Music label and prepared the release of his new album, The Last Zulu, which later became heavily delayed.
In 2013, the group performed at a handful of select festivals throughout the summer, including Yahoo! Wireless in London,Splash! in Germany, OpenAir Frauenfeld in Switzerland,and H2O Music Festival in Los Angeles. In November 2013, two of the four New York shows for West’s Yeezus Tour featured A Tribe Called Quest as supporting acts.According to statements made by Q-Tip at the time, these were intended to be A Tribe Called Quest’s final performances.
2015–2017: We Got It from Here, death of Phife Dawg and final tour
The surviving members of A Tribe Called Quest performing on their final tour
On November 13, 2015, A Tribe Called Quest reunited to perform on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.That day, the group reissued People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm, in commemoration of its 25th anniversary. The reissue included remixes by Pharrell Williams, J. Cole and CeeLo Green. In addition, they participated in an AMA on Reddit, where users asked the group questions. On the night of their Tonight Show appearance, the same night of the terrorist attacks in Paris, the group felt “charged” and put aside their differences, deciding to record a new album, We Got It from Here… Thank You 4 Your Service, in secrecy. Muhammad was unable to attend recording sessions for the album, as he was producing the Luke Cage soundtrack with Adrian Younge at the time.
Phife Dawg died on March 22, 2016, due to complications relating to diabetes. The album was incomplete when Phife Dawg died, but the surviving members continued to work on it following his death. That August, Epic Records CEO L.A. Reid revealed that the label would be releasing a new A Tribe Called Quest album in the near future.We Got It from Here… Thank You 4 Your Service was subsequently announced in October, with a release date of November 11, 2016; it became the group’s second album to debut at #1 on the Billboard 200. The day after its release, the group appeared on Saturday Night Live and performed in front of a mural of Phife Dawg.
We Got It from Here featured guest appearances by André 3000, Kendrick Lamar, Jack White, Elton John, Kanye West, Anderson Paak, Talib Kweli, Consequence and Busta Rhymes. Promoted by the hit single “We the People….“, which opposed Donald Trump‘s presidential campaign, the album received widespread acclaim from critics.Lyrically, Rolling Stone believed that the group “maintain the attitude of the Bohemian everydude funkonauts” that inspired many prominent hip hop artists.AllMusic praised the album’s “visionary and pleasingly weird production”, which drew from several different genres and sample sources. Speaking with Billboard, Q-Tip revealed plans for the group to do a final world tour, to promote the album and honor Phife Dawg, before permanently disbanding. It was also announced that a new Phife Dawg solo album, Forever, completed before his death, would be released in the near future.
On February 12, 2017, A Tribe Called Quest performed alongside Anderson Paak, Busta Rhymes and Consequence at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards. Later that month, the group won the award for best International Group at the 2017 Brit Awards. On May 22, 2017, We Got It from Here achieved gold certification, making all six of the group’s albums RIAA-certified. The group performed at a number of festivals throughout the summer; they performed their final concert on September 9, 2017 at Bestival in Dorset, England. After disbanding, a short film for the album’s opening track, “The Space Program“, was released on March 29, 2018 and billed as the group’s final video.
One Of The Best Duo in Neo-Soul Scene , emerged from the Philadelphia neo soul movement that also includes Jill Scott, who introduced them to her then label president Steve McKeever of Hidden Beach Recordings while the couple was performing at the Black Lily Showcase in Philly weekly back in 2000. Kindred would go on to sign their first recording contract with the label .
Here’s Soulful Duo , Kindred.
Kindred the Family Soul, also referred to as simply Kindred, are a duo consisting of married couple of Fatin Dantzler , Born in 1973 in Camden, New Jersey and Aja Graydon , ,Born September 25, 1978 in Los Angeles, California .
After two years of work on the CD, Hidden Beach issued their debut album Surrender to Love in February 2003, which included the single “Far Away“. Their follow-up album was 2005’s In This Life Together—its title being a reference to Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee‘s 1998 book With Ossie & Ruby: In This Life Together—, spawning the single “Where Would I Be (The Question)”.
They were nominated for a Soul Train Music Award for Best R&B/Soul Album, Group Band or Duo for Surrender to Love in 2004 and a BET Award for the BET J Cool Like That Award in 2006.The group’s third LP, The Arrival, was released on October 21, 2008. In 2011 the group released the LP Love Has No Recession, which featured many guest artists including the late Chuck Brown, Snoop Dogg, Raheem Devaughn, BJ the Chicago Kid, and Bilal. That record spawned the top 40 Urban AC single “Magic Happens”. In 2014, the group released A Couple Friends. In 2016, they released Legacy Of Love which includes the hit single “All My People” Kindred is currently preparing to release new Music in the year 2020 also hugely focused on their interview and performing series Kindred Presents.
He goes by the name of “The R&B Music Genius” , He is the cousin of R&B singers K-Ci and Jojo, Fantasia Barrino, and Neo-Soul singer Calvin Richardson.
He worked with artists like Redman (Wu-Tang Clan , Def Squad) , Erick Sermon (Def Squad,EPMD) , Tank , C’amRon , Angie Stone .
Here’s The Untold Story Of Dave Hollister
The truth, R&B genius, melodious voice from heaven; no matter the description given none can completely consume or cover all of the vocal talents that lie within this one man….Dave Hollister. Dave’s career has been the text book path of one that began in the background but his talent propelled him to his solo career as we know it, one man, one mic and one band creating one night of musical bliss. His first solo project was released in 1999 entitled Ghetto Hymns. This album went gold rendering the single “My Favorite Girl”. This single went on to reach the top ten of the R&B charts. “Ghetto Hymns” served as a notice to the industry and the world that Mr. Hollister was here. He went on to complete eight additional albums over the years. During that time is when Dave released the highly successful project “Chicago 85”. It was on this album that the single “One Woman Man” was the chart topping single, also reaching the top ten R&B charts. And now he’s back with his highly anticipated new album (The MANuscript) featuring the new hit single “Definition of a Woman”
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Hollister was an original member of Teddy Riley’s R&B vocal group Blackstreet from 1993 until starting his solo career in 1995. After achieving solo success, Hollister left the label DreamWorks for Motown in March 2002. Hollister now is a gospel singer and a preacher.
Hollister is best known for his 2000 gold-certified album Chicago ’85… The Movie which included hits such as “One Woman Man” and “Take Care of Home”
“X Moves,” A DMX Song Featuring Bootsy Collins, Hits Streaming Services On The Day Of His Passing
DMX/X-Ray Records/Cleopatra Records, Inc.
Today, Cleopatra Records the new DMX new song “X Moves,” featuring Bootsy Collins, Steve Howe, and Ian Paice. Rest in peace, DMX.
Today, the world lost a legend. Earlier today, DMX‘s team revealed that the iconic and history-making artist had died. In a statement released to media outlets, his team wrote, We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50-years-old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days.”
Numerous artists throughout the music industry, as well as several athletes, have offered tributes in honor of the fallen rapper, and now it appears that his label, Cleopatra Records, has also released a new DMX song featuring Bootsy Collins, Steve Howe, and Ian Paice.
Although the timing of its release is eerie, the song was released earlier today prior to the family’s official statement that DMX had passed. The high-spirited single, titled “X Moves,” features DMX attacking the rap/rock song with voracious energy while Parliament-Funkadelic bassist Bootsy Collins, Deep Purple drummer Ian Paice, and Yes/Asia guitarist Steve Howe contributing to the song’s funky and psychedelic aesthetic.
Regarding the release of “X Moves,” Cleopatra Records founder Brian Perera shared a statement, saying, “As ‘X Moves’ shows, he is still one of the most innovative and original hip-hop artists around. Our hearts go out to all of DMX’s family, friends and supporters.”
While the Hip-Hop community continues to mourn DMX’s passing, at least fans can enjoy another shining example of DMX’s artistry.
The megaproducer released his R&B compilation featuring a standout performance from Sevyn.
He’s known for his Hip Hop beats that get heads bobbin’ and bodies moving, but Charlie Heat has delivered his R&B offering on Friday (April 9). The Grammy-nominated producer has worked with some heavy-hitters in the industry and is well-respected among his peers, so it’s only fitting that he continues to stretch his artistic wings. He dropped off his latest project Valentine’s Son, an R&B compilation that hosts features from several artists, including Sevyn Streeter on “IOU.”
Sevyn belts through the track as she sings about someone who came into her life and set things right with a little love and support. Meanwhile, Charlie Heat said of his project, “I’ve always been known for the energy I bring to my beats in Hip Hop, so I wanted to give my fans a different experience with my art through R&B.” Stream “IOU” and let us know what you think.
Quotable Lyrics
I was so closed off from the world, I was over it
You came right along and you
Changed my world around
Changed my world around
When I was over everybody steady taking advantage of my kindness
Taking it for weakness
All I want to say is IOU, IOU, IOU
Westside Gunn Joins Peter Rosenberg’s Album For “Stain”
2021 Real Late Records
Westside Gunn joins forces with Peter Rosenberg for “Stain,” a grimy cut off the radio host’s upcoming “Real Late” album.
When it comes to hip-hop dynasties, many conversations on the topic tend to look to examine the past. Yet one in particular has managed to establish greatness in this modern era — Westside Gunn’s Griselda Records, a Buffalo-bred movement that has almost single-handled returned golden-era lyricism to the mainstream. With his upcoming album Sincerely Adolf on the way, Gunn has joined forces with Peter Rosenberg, who is currently in the midst of unveiling his own A&R’d compilation album Real Late.
On the same day that his brother Conway The Machine delivered a new single of his own in “Blood Roses,” Gunn and Rosenberg dropped off “Stain,” a grimy cut produced by Bvlvm and JR Swift. By now, it’s already clear that Westside Gunn’s “Ayo” signals an epic stream of violent and vivid lyricism. The only thing capable of bringing him to a stop is the innate desire to let fly a spirited cry of BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM. The more BOOMS, the harder the bars feel like a fair rule of thumb.
“The baddest bitch I ever fucked, I forgot her name,” he raps. “Shoot your block solo, it’s not a game / I’m talkin’ blood everywhere, all type of brains / I’m sayin’ stain on stain on top of stain.” So far, Rosenberg’s Real Late is shaping up to be a gem, and we look forward to its complete release. What do you make of Westside Gunn’s “Stain?”
QUOTABLE LYRICS
The baddest bitch I ever fucked, I forgot her name
Shoot your block solo, it’s not a game
I’m talkin’ blood everywhere, all type of brains
I’m sayin’ stain on stain on top of stain
Miguel/ByStorm Entertainment/RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment
Miguel drops some wisdom on “So I Lie,” one of the tracks from his new project “Art Dealer Chic 4.”
Earlier today, Miguel surprised fans by unleashing a near-decade follow-up to his 2012 Art Dealer Chic EP series:Art Dealer Chic 4. The release of his new EP marks the RCA artist’s first project since his 2017 album War & Leisure, and it features four songs, including the previously heard 2019 single “Funeral.”
“So I Lie” is the closing track to Miguel’s latest EP, and it finds the singer-songwriter exploring the way in which popular culture and social media thrives off fun, hilarious moments but also other people’s pain. In the song’s chorus, Miguel sums it up quite eloquently, saying, “Laugh and the world will laugh, too/ Cry and the world laughs at you.”
“So I Lie” also arrives alongside wavy new visuals. The video starts with Miguel revealing that he’s been dreaming about dead frogs, which according to him signifies “the end of a cycle.” He then hops on a motorcycle and rides out as “So I Lie” starts playing. Trippy edits accentuate gorgeous shots of Miguel on a beach, and a bulk of the visuals are actually presented in a square, Instagram-like ratio.
Check out the stunning music video for Miguel‘s new song “So I Lie” below.
Quotable Lyrics
I can barely breathe treading water
Smile on my face while I’m turning blue
Nobody cares, just work harder
I do what I can to avoid the truth
BROCKHAMPTON Taps A$AP Rocky & A$AP Ferg On “Bankroll”
2021 Question Everything
BROCKHAMPTON line up A$AP Rocky and A$AP Ferg for the enegertic banger “BANKROLL.”
BROCKHAMPTON has officially returned with ROADRUNNER: NEW LIGHT, NEW MACHINE, their first album since 2019’s Ginger. And while the project is looking like a strong early outing from the sprawling collective, it’s hard not to immediately gravitate toward “BANKROLL,” a collaboration with A$AP Rocky and A$AP Ferg.
Off the bat, it’s clear that “BANKROLL” will be an energetic affair. Ferg sets it off over the smooth up-tempo banger, his animated cadence as dynamic as his delivery is explosive. Alas, Rocky opts not to provide a verse, reserving his presence for the pre-chorus; whether simple presence is enough is up to you. Merlyn Woods steps in next, matching Ferg’s pace with a concisely rendered verse before Jabari Manwa closes things out with a melodic parting statement.
Check out the track now, and should you like what you hear be sure to check out BROCKHAMPTON’s brand new album ROADRUNNER: NEW LIGHT, NEW MACHINEand sound off below.
QUOTABLE LYRICS
Talkin’ with Diddy, I made me a milli’ in about a day or two
Filled with lust, wanted to hear what Hype Williams talkin’ ’bout
Bitches that I wanna bust
We supposed to be talking about video treatments and such
But I’m busy lovin’ on the IG, smut
Jorja Smith Goes Back & Forth With Sonder On The Toxic Single “Nobody But You”
Sonder/Jorja Smith/Sonder Global
Sonder and Jorja Smith try to make amends on the sentimental ballad “Nobody But You.”
With every song that he has dropped over the past couple of years, Brent Faiyaz has given Hip-Hop and R&B fans reason after reason for why they should be tapped in with his artistry, and his latest release is no different. Today, the artist has linked back with his critically acclaimed collective Sonder to give fans the group’s first single since 2019’s “What You Heard.”
Sonder’s new record, “Nobody But You,” features UK songstress Jorja Smith, and together, the artists have created a sentimental, yet toxic, ballad that will have fans clamoring for more.
The minimal acoustic soundscape is perfect for Sonder and Jorja’s collaboration, as it keeps the attention on Jorja’s angelic vocals and Brent’s signature heartfelt, yet simultaneously disrespectful, songwriting. “Nobody But You” finds artists trying to make amends to a broken relationship while dealing with the trauma and mistrust that ruined it in the first place, and Jorda and Brent absolutely nail that concept.
Check out the lyric video for Sonder and Jorja Smith’s new single “Nobody But You” below.
Quotable Lyrics
And I know you prolly thinkin’ I ain’t worth sh*t
But I’d never want anyone to bring you any harm
And I’d take it all back just have you in my arms
And I know for a fact who we were ain’t who we are
We are
CJ Will Get You Moving With New Single “Lil Freak” Featuring DreamDoll
Warner Records
CJ returns with his new single “Lil Freak” featuring DreamDoll.
If there’s one thing Staten Island rapper CJ strives at, it’s his beat selection. In his young career, the rising drill rapper has championed some of the hottest beats in hip-hop, going viral with his interpolation of a well-known Hindi sample in “Whoopty”. The song cracked the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100, setting CJ up for major success as one of tomorrow’s music stars.
On Friday, he released the deluxe edition of his project Loyalty Over Royalty, which includes a few new songs, as well as three different versions of “Whoopty”. The standout among the new records is “Lil Freak” with DreamDoll, which uses yet another beat that will get you out of your seat and moving.
Releasing the music video for “Lil Freak” at the same time, CJ is surrounded by beautiful women in Miami, rapping alongside DreamDoll by the pool for the summer-ready anthem.
Don’t need a b*tch that’s classy
I need a b*tch that’s nasty
F*ck you while you lookin’ at me
She said, “Spit in my mouth and slap me”
That’s how I like it, baby
Love when you ride it, baby
She like, “Nut inside mе, baby”
I’m like, “Girl, you crazy”
“La Maquina” is set to arrive next Friday (April 16).
One of the hardest working emcees in the business is Conway The Machine and like clockwork, he’s back with his latest single “Blood Roses.” The track hosts a feature from Jae Skeese and the two share bars over a Cardiak beat that is pulled from the heart of Hip Hop. Conway previously teased this track with a message: “It’s almost time…. cooked up something spectacular wit my n*gga @cardiakflatline just wait and see what’s bouta happen.”
Next week, we’re set to receive Conway’s La Maquina project and if the rumors are to be believed, his God Don’t Make Mistakes album out of Shady Records will arrive sometime this year. We received notice back in November that the project’s release was hit with a delay and fans are eagerly anticipating the Conway-Shady collaboration. As we wait for more news about GDMM‘s arrival, stream “Blood Roses” and share your thoughts.
Quotable Lyrics
I’m shootin’ at everybody, I don’t hit you, then I hit the n*gga closest (Brr)
I gotta be at least top three when a n*gga focused (Cap)
It’s n*ggas that pocket watch me and got hidden motives (Hah)
I see right through ’em though, I just act like I didn’t notice (Yeah)
Used to walk in the kitchen, killin’ roaches
Majid Jordan Make Triumphant Return With “Waves Of Blue”
Instagram
The duo drops their first single from their forthcoming project.
We haven’t received a new album from OVO Sound’s Majid Jordan since 2017’s The Space Between, so it’s expected that fans are overly excited to hear that the duo have a third studio album in the works. To officially launch their rollout season, Majid Jordan returned on Friday (April 9) with their new single “Waves of Blue.”
“’Waves of Blue’ is like staring at the ocean. You’re not in the water, but you’re still getting carried away by its currents. It’s the story of someone’s desire to love and be lost in that love,” the Canadian duo shared in a press release. “’Waves of Blue’ was made at the very beginning of this album, and it only makes sense that we begin our next chapter with this song.”
Stream “Waves of Blue” and let us know if you’re excited to hear more from Majid Jordan.
Quotable Lyrics
Guess how I’m feeling so low
Don’t have to ask me twice
You really take me there
I wanna touch your light
I wanna breathe in your air
It looks like Saweetie has been a busy bee. As her breakup with Migos’s Quavo has recently taken center stage, Saweetie has been pressing on with her increasing collaborations. Lil Tjay tapped Saweetie and Tyga for his “Move” track and the Icy rapper recently made an appearance on Demi Lovato‘s “My Girlfriends Are My Boyfriend.” Saweetie’s popstar efforts continue on Friday (April 9) as she joins forces with Gwen Stefani on the singer’s latest single “Slow Clap.”
This is Stefani’s first music offering of 2021 and by the look of the colorful music video, the No Doubt singer is giving a nod to her 1990s look that helped her become famous. As usual, Saweetie interjects with her bossy bars, so stream “Slow Clap” and let us know what you think.
Quotable Lyrics
I’ll be David, you Goliath
Set the rule and I’ll defy it
You’ll be angry, I’ll be quiet
You’ll be purple, I’m the violet
Take a ride ’cause I’m the co-pilot
I’m the ice cream, you’re just the diet
Doja Cat & SZA Are Pop Princesses On “Kiss Me More”
YouTube
Expect for radio stations to have this one on repeat for some time.
Last month, SZA sat down with Doja Cat to interview the Hot Pink star for V Magazine. Inside, SZA praised Doja’s eclectic pop style and stated that she believes Cat was on her way to becoming the next Britney Spears. Doja has been carefully preparing for her forthcoming album Planet Her and while she wouldn’t detail the features on the record, the singer did give a little bit of a hint.
“It’s people that I respect and I’m extremely excited about having on the album and it’s a full-circle moment for me, basically,” said Doja Cat. Meanwhile, SZA fans have been begging the Top Dawg Entertainment singer for a follow-up project to her 2017 studio debut Ctrl. She’s promised that she has heat on the way, but we’ll have to wait for the TDE gods to bless us.
In the meantime, the two ladies have joined forces on “Kiss Me Now,” a Pop-heavy track that is oozing with radio appeal. Stream Doja Cat and SZA‘s “Kiss Me More” and let us know what you think.
Quotable Lyrics
We could kiss and just cut the rubbish
Then I might bе on to somethin’
I ain’t givin’ you one in public
I’m givin’ you hundreds, f*ck it
Queen Naija & Ari Lennox’s Sultry “Set Him Up” Has Arrived
YouTube
The ladies trade lines about conspiring to catch a cheating man.
Songbird Queen Naija is keeping the spotlight on her Misunderstood album by sharing Misunderstood…Still, and she stirs things up with her new collaboration with Ari Lennox, “Set Him Up.” The sultry single sonically comes across as a sexy tale but if you pay close attention, the ladies are trading information. Apparently, they’re dealing with the same man so they’re conspiring to “Set Him Up” to catch him in the act.
News of this single caused controversy after a few of Ari Lennox‘s fans took issue with Queen Naija’s alleged colorism takes years ago in a viral YouTube video. Queen has long since apologized for her remarks but with each new release, the scandal rears its ugly head. Regardless, Queen and Ari’s vocals beautifully complement each other. Stream “Set Him Up” and let us know your thoughts.
Quotable Lyrics
He grabbed me by my waist, threw my panties on the floor
He ate it like a cake then we broke the headboard
Love the way he smell when he wear that Tom Ford
Hit it so good, had me beggin’ for some more
R.A. The Rugged Man Snaps On Lil Nas X “MONTERO” Remix
Image via YouTube
R.A. The Rugged Man pens scathing social commentary with a practiced hand over Lil Nas X’s “MONTERO” instrumental.
With Lil Nas X‘s Satanically-charged single “MONTERO” currently sitting aloft as the biggest song in the world right now, it was only a matter of time before the remixes began pouring in. Tackling the melodic pop-banger is none other than elite lyricist R.A. The Rugged Man, whose pen game stands as sharp as his scathing social commentary.
Having a field-day with the mass hysteria that rose following the release of “MONTERO’s” visuals and blood-tinged shoes, The Rugged Man dives headlong into the concept as he lets fly rapid-fire bars. “It’s the Satanic panic, playing Dungeons and Dragons,” he spits, alluding to the controversy sparked by the tabletop role-playing game back in the nineteen seventies. “VHS porn form reproductive patterns / like it’s Led Zeppelin “Stairway to Heaven” backward.”
As the track continues, the depth of his message becomes clear. “What’s worse, Lil Nas X Satanic sneaker, or leaving kids at the church with the Catholic preacher?” he spits. “Pepe Le Pew animated cartoon cock loose, cancel Mr. Potato, he gave head to Dr. Seuss.” Clearly, The Rugged Man has more than a few thoughts on the current state of affairs, reveling in pointing out hypocrisy across all sides of the aisle. Check out his lyrically sharp and deftly delivered “Montero” remix now.
QUOTABLE LYRICS
What’s worse — Lil Nas X Satanic sneaker, or leaving kids at the church with the Catholic preacher?
Pepe Le Pew animated cartoon cock loose
Cancel Mr. Potato, he gave head to Dr. Seuss
That’s the slop I produce, triple fat, rock the goose
Shock Jock house party, guns out, shot the roof
Yes I heard the scream from the blasphemer loudly
Jay-Z rocking that Alastair Crowley
The retired rapper returns with a minute-long single.
If you have a minute to spare, Logic has the song for you. In a surprise move, the retired rapper resurfaced with a new single—sort of—that he dropped off over on YouTube titled “Tired in Malibu.” The track finds Logic spitting some straightforward rhymes for about a minute before he signs off. Fans didn’t think they would receive new tunes from Logic considering he announced that his 2020 release No Pressure would be his final album. Since that time, he’s popped up as a feature on Juicy J’s “1995” and continues to connect with his fellow artists, so Logic isn’t fading into the background completely as he works on his label, BobbyBoy Records.
The artwork for “Tired in Malibu” shows Logic lounging with his son and enjoying those daddy duties that a Rap career wouldn’t afford a famous father on the road. We expect to hear more from Logic, albeit not as frequently as we’re used to, but for now, kick back and stream his minute-long release, “Tired in Malibu.”
Quotable Lyrics
Throwback like a Flux Capacitor
Shape-shift like an animorph
You come in them short like a dwarf
And my sh*t never the same
Spillage Village Unleashes An Impressive Posse Cut For The “Baptize Remix”
Spillage Village/YouTube
Spillage Village taps Deante’ Hitchcock, Hollywood JB, IDK, and Flabush Zombies members Erick The Architect and Zombie Juice for a jam-packed remix to “Baptize.”
Last September, Spillage Village dropped off its debut studio album Spilligion, and roughly seven months later, the Hip-Hop and R&B collective — which consists of 6lack, JID, EARTHGANG, Mereba, and Hollywood JB — is back with an official remix to the album’s second single “Baptize.” Although Johnny Venus’ throaty hook is kept in tact on the remix, the new version of “Baptize” features a posse cut of artists outside of Spillage Village, including Deante’ Hitchcock, IDK, and Flatbush Zombies.
Spillage Village’s “Baptize Remix” arrives almost exactly a week after Deante’ Hitchcock’s last #NewAtlantaTuesdays freestyle, in which he delivered a scorching take on the collective’s popular single, so it makes sense that Hitchcock’s impeccable double entendre-filled verse is recycled for the official “Baptize” remix. The rising Atlanta artist’s verse kicks things off, and Spillage Village member Hollywood JB follows Hitchcock’s lead by delivering a more slowed-down and introspective verse. After Johnny Venus comes through with the song’s unforgettable hook, IDK snatches the reigns and fires off some impressive and energetic bars, and Flatbush Zombies members Erick The Architect and Zombie Juice close out the posse cut with a bang.
If Spillage Village releases a deluxe version of Spilligion, would you want “Baptize Remix” to make the cut?
Quotable Lyrics
Submerged, physical, came out the water spiritual, uh
Seen the light, blink twice, just seen a miracle, nah
They been waitin’ for this (Uh-huh), like Pop comin’ back
The seven day theory, they immortalize the wrong n*ggas
Man, it’s just scary
The Isley Brothers Tap Snoop Dogg For Smooth “Friends And Family”
2021 R.I. Records
The Isley Brothers ride the wave and release their new single “Friends And Family,” grabbing a breezy guest verse from Big Snoop Dogg.
After recently wrapping up an epic Verzuz battle against Earth, Wind, and Fire, The Isley Brothers have come through to ride the wave with their new single “Friends and Family.” And for the celebratory occasion, the legendary group enlisted their old pal Snoop Dogg for a closing verse; lest we forget, Snoop and Ron Isley previously joined forces on Swizz Beatz‘s star-studded anthem “Bigger Business” back in 2002.
Though The Isley Brothers have been releasing music since the 1950s, “Friends and Famiy” proves that they haven’t lost a step in the slightest. Ron Isley’s soulful vocals have aged particularly gracefully, and his calls to embrace the positive vibes certainly resonate in an era that can sometimes feel overwhelmingly dark. “Go right ‘head and smoke and play some cards, just make yourself at home,” he sings. “It’s okay to take somebody’s hand and get your groove on.”
Snoop Dogg reinforces the point with a few final words, his slick flow at home over the bass-driven groove. “Hand my drink to wifey and sit my cup down, now the whole fam bam gettin’ down,” he spits, a snapshot into how a typical Broadus shindig goes down. “I mean, I mean, I just had a plate of them greens / I’m on the dance floor groovin’ like a dancing machine.”
Check out the latest single from The Isley Brothers now, and show some love to the legendary group in the comments below. In other news, Ron Isley was recently working in the studio with Dr. Dre and Fred Wreck, so stay tuned to see how that development unfolds.
QUOTABLE LYRICS
Hand my drink to wifey and sit my cup down
Now the whole fam bam gettin’ down
I mean, I mean, I just had a plate of them greens
I’m on the dance floor groovin’ like a dancing machine
Justin Bieber Taps Pink Sweat$, Chandler Moore, & Pastor Judah Smith For “Where You Go I Follow”
YouTube
The religious singer recently shared his “Freedom” EP.
On Easter Sunday, Justin Bieber surprised fans by releasing his six-track EP, Freedom. The ultra-religious singer has often spoken openly about his Christian faith, and fans have seen him make appearances with his celebrity pastor friends Carl Lentz, Chad Veach, and Judah Smith. The latter shows up on Freedom, including a feature on “Where You Go I Follow” alongside Bieber, Chandler Moore, and Pink Sweat$.
The inspiring, Jesus-centered song is all about one’s dedication to Christ as Pastor Judah Smith holds down the outro as he preaches about why the divine figure is unlike any other being. Freedom‘s release closely follows both the original and deluxe versions of Bieber’s hit pop album Justice that continues to make waves on the charts. “Where You Go I Follow will certainly be sung in churches far and wide, so stream the track and let us know your thoughts.
Quotable Lyrics
Sometimes this world is feeling crazy
At times my mind is feeling hazy
But, Lord, you always come and save me
God Almighty, my safety
You’re my end, you’re my new beginning
You’re my home, the One I confide in
Tierra Whack draws inspiration from LEGO in her melodic new single “Link,” which arrives complete with some colorful visuals.
Tierra Whack may not operate under the busiest schedule, but the scarcity with which she drops makes every release feel like a special occasion. And while many are still patiently waiting for the lyricist to deliver a studio album follow-up to Whack World, one can not rush an artist who so carefully moves at their own pace. Today, Whack has come through to deliver a new single in “Link,” a bubbly and melodic track that comes complete with some colorful visuals.
Conceptually, much of “Link” draws inspiration from LEGO, with whom she partnered for the accompanying music video. “Orange, green, yellow,
purple, red,” she raps. “Building up an empire, taking over the entire world, so many pieces, leave em all speechless.” While some might have been hoping to see her picking up where her “Whack History Month” freestyles left off, “Link” effectively showcases Whack’s versatility, proving once again that one must always expect the unexpected whenever she drops new music.
Check it out for yourself now, and sound off if you’re eager to see a complete project from Tierra Whack.
QUOTABLE LYRICS
Queen of the block
I can make it stack,
It won’t ever drop
Creating something special
Orange, green, yellow, purple, red
Building up an empire
Taking over the entire world
Chiiild Teams Up With Mahalia On The Lush New Single “Awake”
Chiiild/Mahalia/Avant Garden/4th & Broadway/UMG Recordings, Inc.
Chiiild follows up his hypnotic single “Sleepwalking” with “Awake,” a groovy new song featuring Mahalia.
Last week, Montreal-based vocalist, bassist, keyboardist, and songwriter Chiiild announced his forthcoming debut album Hope For Sale. To coincide with the announcement, the Canadian multihyphenate also dropped the vivid, kaleidoscopic track “Sleepwalking,” the first single from his upcoming record. The self-reflective track about reclaiming one’s agency and individuality really whet listeners’ voracious appetite for Hope For Sale, and now Chiiild is following up the impressive single with a new song, titled “Awake.”
Chiiild’s latest single is a globe-spanning track that features Jamaican-British singer-songwriter Mahalia, marking the first official collaboration between the two artists. The enchanting song finds both singers waxing poetic about wanting to get their significant other into the bedroom for — well, you know. About halfway through the track, “Awake” unfolds and expands into a gorgeous string-accentuated soundscape, adding to its already lush sonic aesthetic, and although Chiiild’s latest single clocks in at just under a four-minute runtime, its infectious groove will definitely have you starting the song over again and again.
Check out Chiiild and Mahalia’s collaboration below.
Quotable Lyrics
Time slows down when you pull up to the venue (Uh)
Michelin star crib and my body’s on the menu
VIP treatment, giving you the chef’s special
‘Cause I still get butterflies daily, like the first day that I met you
Taylor Gang’s Fedd The God & Wiz Khalifa Team Up For “Yea Yup”
Image via Spotify
It’s a Taylor Gang affair on Fedd the God’s latest single.
Artist’s under Wiz Khalifa‘s Taylor Gang banner double as label mates and each other’s go-to collaborators. It’s no wonder the label’s latest signee Fedd the God enlisted the help of the boss himself for his latest single “Yea Yup.” The single arrives as the fourth single from his upcoming EPSpeed Racer, set to arrive on April 9th.
On the track, the Pittsburgh rappers go back and forth about their luxurious lifestyles, earning money, their opps, and their relationships with the ladies. Speaking of the song’s conception, the 26-year-old said neither he nor Wiz had a concept in mind when they hit the studio to cut the track.
“He just wanted to see what I had, my skill set,” Fedd says, “so he put on a beat and he went, ‘Start a song, start a song up,’ and I just started freestylin’.” He added that the experience wasn’t nerve-wracking, but rather, ” it was like playing one-on-one basketball versus one of your favorite players. It was a moment you’re ready for.”
The video for the track is set to debut on Monday, April 5th. Until then, give “Yea Yup” a listen and let us know how you’re feeling about the track down below.
Quotable Lyrics:
B*tch I pull up like I’m Gretsky
Catching waves at jetski
She don’t wanna love no more, she just wanna sex me
Bank account on overload, OGs they just blessed me
Lil Tjay Recruits Tyga & Saweetie For Explicit “Move”
YouTube
The artists don’t hold back on the catchy “Destined 2 Win” track.
It has been 24 hours since Lil Tjay released his anticipated Destined 2 Win album and his fans are racking up the rapper’s streaming numbers. The New York artist’s sophomore effort came in at a lengthy 21 tracks and featured artists like Polo G, Fivio Foreign, Toosii, Offset, Moneybagg Yo, Saweetie, and Tyga. The latter two artists linked with Tjay on “Move,” a track with an infectious hook that’s hard to shake.
On the song, all three artists share a few sexually explicit bars—and while the men speak about women who are only around because they want money Saweetie chimes in and seemingly responds. The Pretty B*tch Music rapper opened her verse with, “I just want the best d*ck, I’m lookin’ for a check.” Stream “Move” from Lil Tjay‘s Destined 2 Win and let us know what you think.
Quotable Lyrics
She ask if I’m rollin’, I said “B*tch, I might be”
Superstar status, Glock under the white tee
Shawty stand by me, you gettin’ the right things
Baguettes on your chest make your whole body bling
Freak ting, said you like girls, b*tch, I’m on the same thing
Demi Lovato Calls On Saweetie For “My Girlfriends Are My Boyfriend”
Demi Lovato
The ladies share why it’s important to nurture friendships with your besties.
Her docuseries has captured attention now the Demi Lovato is ready to be open and honest about her past struggles. She’s spoken candidly about the overdose that left her with brain damage and being sexually assaulted by her drug dealer before passing out. The revelations have caused a firestorm and it all was leading up to the singer’s latest release, Dancing with the Devil… the Art of Starting Over. The 19-track project is one of Lovato’s most honest, and on “My Girlfriends Are My Boyfriends,” Saweetie joins the singer as she reflects on the importance of friendships.
The pop-heavy track is one pointed toward the ladies as it emphasizes nurturing the relationship with your crew just as much as one would do with a partner. Saweetie slides in at the end with her bestie energy, so check out “My Girlfriends Are My Boyfriends” and let us know what you think.
Quotable Lyrics
I found the love of my life (I found the love of my life)
Wait, I mean the loves of my life (I mean the loves of my life)
My soulmates, my angels
My reasons I’m grateful
Don’t need a ring or a vow (Don’t need a ring or a vow)
I got my day ones around (I got my day ones around)
They’re perfect, they’re priceless
Forever like diamonds (Diamonds)
The world of crypto can be confusing. NFTs are digital assets that are unique. Think of them like video game skins that kids buy: they only exist in the digital realm and you buy them for clout. And they’re unique and cool. The world of NFTs is more complicated than that, and musicians have started to make a bunch of profit off them.
The Weeknd auctioned off his first NFT collection today, and of course, it has hit the internet. For those who understand NFTs, this means we can listen to a copy of the song, although we don’t own the artwork or the NFT. The lucky person who got the 1 of 1 NFT song and artwork is sitting pretty right now though.
The single is called “The Source” and is part of a collection called “Acephalous.” The collection highlights eight pieces: the 1 of 1 “The Source” full song and accompanying digital artwork, along with several other edits and cuts of the song that also have their own artwork. The digital art was made in collaboration with Strangeloop Studios.
Quotable Lyrics Said, I’ll never leave you alone
But this part you do on your own, your own
I said, I’ll never leave you alone
But this part you do on your own, your own
Erica Banks Warns Haters To Never Play With Her “Motherf*ckin’ Pen” On Her “Jump Off” Freestyle
Erica Banks/YouTube
Erica Banks pushes for the 10th XXL Freshman spot with a confident freestyle over Lil Kim’s classic single “The Jump Off.”
The running for the 10th spot in the highly-anticipated 2021 XXL Freshman Class is tight. Metro Marrs, Kevo Muney, Yung Bleu, Symba, OMB Peezy, Deante’ Hitchcock, and countless other artists are all in the running for the coveted position, but one artist whose momentum might help them secure the 10th spot is Erica Banks. Known for her viral breakout hit “Buss It” and the equally infectious “Toot That,” the Dallas, Texas-based rapper has been one of the hardest working rising rappers as of late.
At the top of March, Erica Banks unleashed a melodic freestyle over another viral hit, Mooski’s inescapable “Track Star,” and now, the Texas rapper has returned with a freestyle that pays homage to the original Queen of Rap: Lil’ Kim. For her latest E-MIX, Erica Banks bodies the instrumental to Lil’ Kim’s classic 2003 single “The Jump Off,” and you can hear the hunger and passion throughout her two-minute freestyle.
Check it out below, and let us know if you think Erica Banks deserves the 10th spot in the forthcoming XXL Freshman Class.
Quotable Lyrics
First off, checkin’ in, I ain’t never checkin’ out
Every time I eat the beat, they be like: “Who you checkin’ out?”
This is rap, baby, I thought this is what the check about
Been the shit, I been legit, now take a pic to check me out
The rapper’s forthcoming project “End of an Era” is slated for release this year.
She took time to tend to her home life and now Iggy Azalea is ready to roll out her new album. Last year, as we were all under quarantine, Iggy gave birth to her firstborn, Onyx, a son she shares with Playboi Carti. The pair are no longer together and fans received front row seats to the unfolding of their drama as it played out on social media at the end of 2020. Now that that’s behind her, Iggy returns with new music.
End of an Era is slated for release sometime this year and it will mark Iggy’s third studio album and a follow-up to her 2019 effort, In My Defense. On Friday (April 2) Iggy delivered two new tracks and here, we’ll tackle “Sip It” featuring Tyga. On the single, we find both artists boasting about their sexual exploits and player statuses as they name-drop luxury brands. Stream “Sip It” and let us know if you’re looking forward to End of an Era.
Quotable Lyrics
Big boss b*tch, I could get you a new car (Yeah)
F*ck him in them Saint Laurent heels, he said I’m too tall (Yeah)
Wanna wife me up I go silent and say “Ha-ha-ha”
Uber on the way, he said can he stay? (Stay)
Don’t pull in my garage, Rolls Royce in the driveway (Way)
The Grammy nominee returns with another fire single.
He may have missed out on a Grammy win, but with or without it, Freddie Gibbs remains one of the most respected emcees in the Rap game. The Alfredo artist was recently nominated for Best Rap Album and ultimately lost to Nas‘s King’s Disease, but Gibbs took it all in stride. The savvy lyricist has returned to share his new single “Big Boss Rabbit” on Friday (April 2) along with an accompanying music video where Gibbs gets to work in the studio.
On the single, Gibbs blazes through the track with his hard-hitting bars, as usual, causing fans to further anticipate the rumored joint project with Benny The Butcher. Benny recently fanned the flames of the gossip by revealing that there is truth to the rumors, although we don’t know much about it all just yet. We’ll keep you updated as we hear more about the collaborative album, but until then, stream Freddie Gibbs’s “Big Boss Rabbit” and share your thoughts.
Quotable Lyrics
Kane Train Records, b*tch, we runnin’ sh*t
Just touched down in the airport
Louis V backpack full of them hundreds, b*tch
Cleaner than McQueen, ho, I’m a gangster, not no lover, b*tch
Grammy afterparty b*tch, we rock it like we won it, b*tch
Benny The Butcher & Ransom Link On Hard-Hitting “Spineless”
YouTube
The Buda Da Future-produced single is featured on the TGF & BSF collab “Trust The Sopranos.”
Fans have just got themselves settled into his Harry Fraud joint effortThe Plugs I Met 2, but Benny The Butcher isn’t one who allows lulls between projects. The Griselda rapper consistently delivers music that makes his fellow artists green with envy, and this time around, he linked with Ransom on “Spineless.” The track is said to be featured on Trust The Sopranos, a mash-up of .38 Spesh’s Trust Gang Family and Benny’s Black Soprano Family. The project is slated for release on the last day of the month, and by the sound of things, it’s coming in hot.
“Benny and I have been partners in rhyme for years, so it only made sense to align our respective brands and bring our talented rosters together for a monumental compilation album,” said Spesh. Stream “Spineless” with Benny The Butcher and Ransom and let us know if you’re looking forward to Trust the Sopranos.
Quotable Lyrics
They don’t gotta give us our credit, we proud of ourselves
My daughters won’t grow up like me, we fathered ourselves
This the type of sh*t that I’m really on
Forgive me for fallin’ out with friends I got too busy for
Made me take the Rollie off, put the Richard Millie on
Tobe Nwigwe makes a major announcement as he spits some bars with the family on “A Revealing Freestyle.”
If he’s not yet on your radar, be sure to keep an eye out for Tobe Nwigwe — especially if you’re invested in the art of bars. Never failing to deliver in that regard, the Texan-based emcee has come through with “A Revealing Freestyle,” a spirited performance delivered from the comfort of his living room couch. In true family man fashion, Nwigwe’s wife Fat and children hold it down alongside him, with the former providing ad-libs whenever appropriate.
“Big words for you nerds, a big dub for the west,” he spits. “Just chopped it up with Nas, Diddy hit me on the text / low key it was a FaceTime but I ain’t even trying to flex / I’m just sayin’ I was broke, and now I’m rocking wit the best.” As the freestyle livens up, Nwigwe’s pushes his voice to its extremities as he lets fly an exciting announcement. “Swerve and I swing, Fat be the queen,” he spits, rising from the couch. “And low-key she pregnant as hell, we just ain’t said a thing / kid number 3, or maybe even four / we only been to one doctor visit, hell we don’t even know!”
It’s a wholesome moment to be sure, and one that happens to arrive complete with a dose of deftly delivered bars — as has come to be expected whenever Tobe Nwigwe gets to rapping. Check it out for yourself now, and congratulations to the Nwigwe family for the newest addition!
QUOTABLE LYRICS
Swerve and I swing, Fat be the queen
And low-key she pregnant as hell, we just ain’t said a thing
Kid number 3, or maybe even four
We only been to one doctor visit, hell we don’t even know!
Westside Gunn Styles On The Game With “Julia Lang”
2021 Griselda Records
Westside Gunn comes through with his second drop of the day, spitting bars over synthesizers on “Julia Lang.”
Westside Gunn may be one of today’s foremost voices in contemporary gangsta rap, but the Griselda visionary also happens to have a deep understanding of the art scene. It’s part of what makes him such a compelling lyricist, as his stream of consciousness verses tend to toe the line between both hyper-stylized worlds. Now, with the upcoming Hitler Wears Hermes 8 in the pipeline, Gunn has come through to deliver a pair of new singles from the project — the Beat Butcher/Daringer produced “TV BOY” (stream that here) and the Camouflage Monk-laced “Julia Lang.”
Driven by a filthy synth-driven instrumental, Gunn dives in with a purpose, proving once again that his lyrical prowess is not to be slept on. Though the track doesn’t exactly last long — clocking in at a little under a minute before fading out mid-bar — there’s enough energy to please Gunn fans. “Yo, me and Julia Lang whippin’ ‘caine with a hanger,” he raps. “Sellin’ dope like ’94, I’m talkin’ bakin’ with a pager.”
Check out “Julia Lang” now, complete with some new visuals, and keep an eye out for more news on the upcoming HWH 8: Sincerely Adolf.
QUOTABLE LYRICS
Ayo, my Yeezys lookin’ like moon boots
My man killed my other man, it’s a lose-lose
Stick swingin’, dumpin’ out the moon roof
Westside Gunn gears up for “Hitler Wears Hermes 8” with the release of “TV BOY,” produced by Daringer and Beat Butcha.
Rest assured that rumors of Westside Gunn’s retirement have been grossly exaggerated. In fact, the Griselda visionary is on the verge of delivering yet another new project, this time revisiting a long-running series for Hitler Wears Hermes 8. With that one officially on the way, Gunn has come through to drop a pair of new singles off the project, the first of which being the Daringer and Beat Butcha collaboration “TV BOY”
Being that this one was conjured by two of Griselda’s most consistent producers, it’s no surprise that “TV BOY” features the label’s grimy signature sound. Immersed in the warbling instrumental, Gunn lets fly an energetic dose of street lyricism, reflecting on his formative hustling days. “Beware, it’s the MAC squeezer,” he spits, buried in a mass of ad-libs and filthy percussion. “If all else fails, I kept Pyrex for scales / Last place was hell, I’m talkin’ 23 and 1 / Thirty minutes straight starin’ at the cell.”
Check out “TV BOY” now, the first of two new singles from Westside Gunn — the Camouflage Monk-produced “Julia Lang” is also due for release at some point today.
QUOTABLE LYRICS
Beware, it’s the MAC squeezer
If all else fails, I kept Pyrex for scales
Last place was hell, I’m talkin’ 23 and 1
Thirty minutes straight starin’ at the cell
I miss my old celly, I wish that ni*ga’d come home
Been locked since the ’80s, never had a cell phone
Vince Staples Assists Tiana Major9 On “Real Affairs (Remix)”
Via TIDAL
From Tiana Major9’s forthcoming “At Sixes And Sevens Remixed.”
It’s been less than two months since Tiana Major9 released her new album, Major Mantras which has been doing quite well. It’s arguably one of the best projects to drop this year but even with a February release, it seems that she has more in store for her fans. Tiana’s currently gearing up for the release of Sixes And Sevens Remixed. The singer unveiled the remix to “Same Space” ft. SiR just a few weeks ago and now, she’s back with the release of “Real Affair (Remix)” featuring Vince Staples.
“I decided that the songs needed more,” Tiana said of her upcoming effort during an interview with Zane Lowe. “I already loved the songs, but I just wanted to get some of my favorite artists on there.”
Quotable Lyrics Your scramblin’ thoughts ain’t too good to handle a loss
I can’t even count the candles I bought
And If I lose, I don’t know what I’d do
I’m a whose who but with you, I’m improved
Shelley FKA DRAM Is “Cooking WIth Grease” On His Latest Single
Shelley FKA DRAM/Empire/Atlantic Records/
Shelley FKA DRAM releashes the velvety single “Cooking With Grease” and announces his upcoming self-titled album.
Shelley FKA DRAM has left fans waiting for the full-length follow-up to his debut album Big Baby DRAM since 2016, and five years (and a name change) later, the artist is finally gearing up to give fans his sophomore album. Titled to reflect his new stage name, Shelly FKA DRAM the album arrives on April 16, 2021. Weeks ahead of its release, Shelley has dropped the project’s second official single, the velvety R&B cut “Cooking With Grease.”
Arriving exactly a month after Shelley FKA DRAM‘s first single “Exposure,” this three-minute track is a sensual and smooth new effort from Shelley that’s a must-add to your R&B playlists. “Cooking With Grease” is a suggestive ballad that finds Shelley tempting a love interest by bragging about his superior love-making abilities, and the playful and infectious new single is a welcomed release from the LVRN artist. The sultry cut also arrives alongside a music video that pulls inspiration from late-night shows, and in the video, Shelley stars as the fictional show’s host as well as its guest performer.
Check out the music video for Shelley FKA DRAM’s new single “Cooking With Grease” below.
Quotable Lyrics
I feel used and abused
So I started doing it too
But I never did it to you, oh no, oh no
So why you do it to me, baby?
Sounds so stupid to me
CJ Enlists French Montana & Rowdy Rebel For “Whoopty (Remix)”
YouTube
The “Loyalty Over Royalty” rapper is looking to expand the shelf life of his breakout hit.
It’s the track that put him on the map, and now CJ is back with the remix to his single “Whoopty.” As expected, French Montana makes an appearance alongside Rowdy Rebel, and along with the updated version of the single comes a fast-paced visual. The crew came out to play in the streets of New York for the music video and recruited a few puppies for protection in the process.
“Whoopty” was featured on CJ’s recently released EP Loyalty Over Royalty, a project that was executive produced by French. While speaking with us for our Rise & Grind series, CJ praised French for helping him navigate his career. “Shout out to French. You know, that’s family. He just wanted to help out on this project and just give me some guidance,” said the rapper.
“I’m seven months in the game. He’s been in the game for a little while,” he added. “He knows the ins-and-outs of this industry. He just wanted to guide me in the right direction and help me with this project. But yeah, shout out to French. That’s family right there.”
She jump off the Vert like Uzi (For what?)
Blue cheese
Hunnids, hunnids, blue cheese (Hunnids, hunnids)
Model face like Karrueche
Make up like Jeezy and Gucci (Brr)
CJ Extends “Whoopty” Reign With “Latin Mix” Ft. Anuel AA & Ozuna
YouTube
After delivering French Montana and Rowdy Rebel’s remix, CJ is back with another.
It’s the song that keeps on giving. Staten Island rapper CJ is on his way up thanks to his breakout hit “Whoopty” and it seems that once fans think the hype surrounding the single has dissipated, a new remix or freestyle comes to the surface. We recently received a remix that included features from Rowdy Rebel and CJ’s “mentor” French Montana, and another has been shared, the Latin Mix version, with looks from Anuel AA and Ozuna.Along with the bilingual remix comes a Fight Club-inspired visual that matches the temperature of the track. Expect to hear much more from CJ in the coming months as the new Warner Records signee attempts to recreate—or supersede—the success of his first Top Ten hit. Check out the “Latin Mix” and let us know how this remix matches up with the other.
Te rompemo’ la guagua ‘esde el otro carril (Brr)
Tengo siete peine’ de refill (De refill)
¿Bichote’? Ajá (Ajá), con carro’ del 2000 (Brr, jaja)
Cabrón, la guerra te la estoy declarando (¿Ah?)
Ya tú ere’ un muerto caminando (Caminando)
Benny The Butcher & Harry Fraud Keep Solid On “Live By It”
Via TIDAL
Benny The Butcher & Harry Fraud lay down the business on “Live By It.”
Benny The Bucher emerged as the underdog watching the Griselda empire get built from the ground up alongside Conway and Westside Gunn but these days, he’s standing on his own two as one of the hardest MCs out. The rapper’s string in the last 8 months alone included the introduction of the B$F crew with a Gangsta Grillz tape, his second studio album Burden Of Proof, and now, the second installment in the Plugs I Met series with Harry Fraud.
Though packed with features, the best moments come when Benny and Harry are bouncing their chemistry off of each other. “Live By It” comes mid-way through the tracklist, following collabs with Chinx and 2 Chainz but it’s arguably the most sobering moment throughout the project. Harry Fraud’s cinematic production plays out as Benny describes the power and paranoia of carrying firearms with context to the Texas shooting.
Check out the record below. What’s your favorite record off of Plugs I Met 2?
Quotable Lyrics For a minute, robbery was my new profession
Pop up at your crib, dressed like UPS men
Show me where the money at or get your neck slit
And we don’t even count it, onto the next lick
Sheck Wes Is Back To His Unconventional Ways On “Unorthodox”
Via Soundcloud
Sheck Wes delivers an icy banger.
It’s hard to believe that it’s been nearly three years since Sheck Wes released his hit single, “Mo Bamba.” The song took over the globe and became nearly inescapable for months on end, though it’s unfortunate that it’s among the few major records from Sheck. Even though it seems that his career has been on a standstill since Mudboy, he’s continued to flood the streets with new music at whatever opportunity he can.
This week, the rapper quietly returned to Soundcloud for a muddy banger titled, “Unorthodox.” Produced by Redda, the rapper’s latest single is a riotous anthem with a sprightly flow that cuts through the rumbling 808s.
Check out the latest offering from Sheck Wes below and let us know your thoughts in the comment section.
Quotable Lyrics Bad bitch a eater, she know I don’t need her
She don’t love Sheck Wes, she love the checks like FEMA
N***a got rich so I gotta keep the (ow)
I do tours in arenas
2Eleven & Freddie Gibbs Elevate On “Rich & Gangsta”
Via TIDAL
2Eleven and Freddie Gibbs offer gritty collaboration with “Rich & Gangsta.”
West Coast OG 2Eleven has developed a strong relationship with Freddie Gibbs over the years which was clear when the Gary, IN rapper brought him along to the Grammy celebrations last weekend. To end the week, 2Eleven slid through with his latest body of work, Mastermind which includes a heavy presence from Gibbs. Among the many highlights from the project is “Rich & Gangsta,” the second track on Mastermind which brings the two rappers together over exhilarating West Coast production as they detail street warfare. “Reminisce on those Death Row days/ When outta town rappers were scared to come to LA,” reminisces 2Eleven on the first verse. Gibbs opens up with an homage to his Southern influences before performing lyrical acrobatics with spitfire flows that bob and weave through the bassline including a mild shot at Jim Jones and The Game.
Check out their collab below.
Quotable Lyrics Cuban VVS’s, yo, my whole neck glow
Why I got ’em crying tears like Jimmy on Flex show
An 80s baby, I walk straight into the 90s with a P89
Ruger, we don’t do no truce with police like Jayceon
D-Nice Returns With Ne-Yo And Kent Jones On “No Plans For Love”
HITCO / D-Nice
The upbeat track will inevitably become a summer hit.
Even though it’s still only March, D-Nice, Ne-Yo, and Kent Jones are out here creating a dance-worthy summer masterpiece. “No Plans For Love” is a track about being completely seduced by someone, mentally and physically, even though you have no plans of falling in love. The funky rhythm absolutely screams warm weather and long nights, and you’ll undoubtedly be playing this track long into the dog days of summer.
Legendary DJ D-Nice has been trying to help fans make it through the coronavirus pandemic, hosting his own “Club Quarantine” live streams toward the beginning of the outbreak that featured legends like Diddy, Drake, Snoop Dogg, and Janet Jackson. “No Plans For Love” is D-Nice’s first official release since his sophomore LP To Tha Rescue dropped more than 30 years ago.
D-Nice premiered a really unique lyric video for “No Plans For Love” on Friday, which featured him DJing on Instagram Live. As the song plays, the lyrics appear from the artists’ verified Instagram accounts as comments on the livestream. It’s certainly a video to check out, so go listen to “No Plans For Love” and watch the official lyric video below.
Quotable Lyrics It’s hypnotizing with her charm,
She ain’t the type you see on everybody’s arm
She tried to warn me that first night,
She said that I’ll be coming back and she was right
2 Eleven Taps Freddie Gibbs & Rucci For “Top Down”
Via TIDAL
2Eleven, Freddie Gibbs, and Rucci connect for a mean banger.
2Eleven and Freddie Gibbs‘s relationship extends beyond wax. The pair have formed a brotherhood of sorts with the West Coast MC joining the Gary, IN native at his Grammy festivities last weekend. A week later, 2Eleven slid through with his latest project, Mastermind that includes some heavy assistance from Freddie Gibbs who appears on all but two records on the 9-track effort.
The two rappers connect with Rucci for a gritty banger on “Top Down.” Gibbs commands attention off of the rip as he handles hook duties and sets the tone of the first verse before 2Eleven and Rucci slide through.
2Eleven‘s new project Mastermind follows the release of 2020’s Success Is The Best Revenge. Peep 2Eleven’s “Top Down” ft. Freddie Gibbs and Rucci below.
Quotable Lyrics The stick, I stay ridin’ with
The glass, I stay ridin’ on
Pyrex, my dope fork, my dope scale
My powder on
Ice cream man, ice cream cone
Got popped for like 9 zones
Said fuck the police chief
N***a re-upped and I came home
Benny The Butcher & Harry Fraud Tap Rick Hyde On “Survivor’s Remorse”
Benny The Butcher & Rick Hyde bring it back to Buffalo alongside Harry Fraud on this monstrous “The Plugs I Met 2” highlight.
Benny The Butcher and Harry Fraud did it again. The Griselda rapper and prolific East Coast producer slid through this week with the long-awaited sequel to 2018’s The Plugs I Met. Arriving as the third project from Benny in the last 12 months, Benny proves that his shooting average is way above his peers in this rap game. He enlists artists like Fat Joe, French Montana, and Jim Jones to bring the album to life but one of the most honest collaborations comes alongside B$F’s Rick Hyde.
Benny The Butcher and Rick Hyde bring it back to the streets of Buffalo on “Survivor’s” remorse. Alongside a harrowing vocal sample and monstrous drums, the two rappers reflect on their rise from the streets into the rap game, especially as many of their own friends haven’t been able to witness a fraction of their success.
Check out the record below. What’s your favorite track from The Plugs I Met 2?
Quotable Lyrics
The ones who expect the most favors ain’t give you shit
I was the best cook, stepped on work with my right and left foot
Before you even knew how a connect looked
You know my pot game was textbook
Who sold more dope than us except Push? The proof is how my neck look
Dawn Richard Celebrates Different Body Types In Sexy Visual To “Jacuzzi” Single
The multihyphenate singer shared her new track that’s set to be featured on her forthcoming album, “Second Line: An Electro Revival.”
It’s time for Dawn Richard, stylized DAWN, to prepare for the arrival of her forthcoming album Second Line: An Electro Revival. The Danity Kane singer has been crafting her solo career for some time and she’s ready to share new music with fans who have just discovered her art and those who have stayed loyal since her Making the Band days.
On Monday (March 22), Dawn shared her latest single, “Jacuzzi,” along with a sexy music video. The multihyphenate entertainer joined with two dancers as they donned skin-colored two pieces and showed off a few sultry moves to accompany the single. Second Line: An Electro Revival will reportedly arrive on April 30 and recently, Dawn spoke about the inspiration behind the album.
“In death and in life, we celebrate the impact of a personâs legacy through dance and music,” said the New Orleans native. “Iâm celebrating the death of old views in the industry. The death of boxes and limits. Iâm celebrating the homecoming of the Future. The homecoming to the new wave of artists. The emergence of all the King Creoles to come. This is our revival.â Stream “Jacuzzi” and let us know what you think.
Quotable Lyrics
I’m tryin’ to blow the roof off
I’m tryin’ to burn this b*tch down, if you want
Every time he touch me life gets slicker
Tryin’ to make the sauce stick like a sticker
“Peaches” is the latest single release from Justin Bieber, who is threatening to take over the charts in the coming weeks with this one. Everything about this song, especially the catchy hook that will leave you humming the melody for days on end, screams that “Peaches” will be a lasting success well into the summer season. The R&B-tinged record picks up perfect guest appearances from Daniel Caesar and Giveon, who gives the song a final punch before it closes out with Bieber’s fantastic hook.
Alongside a new music video directed by Collin Tilley, “Peaches” is out now and it’s worth a listen from any pop and R&B fans.
What do you think of the new record?
Quotable Lyrics:
I got my peaches out in Georgia (Oh yeah, sh*t)
I get my weed from California (That’s that sh*t)
I took my chick up to the North, yeah, (Bad ass b*tch)
I get my light right from the source, yeah (Yeah, that’s it)
Benny The Butcher & 2 Chainz Switch It Up On “Plug Talk”
2021 BSF
Benny The Butcher and Harry Fraud invite 2 Chainz to their meeting of the bosses, culminating in the standout “Plug Talk.”
Whenever Benny The Butcher drops a new project, it’s already understood to be of premium quality. It’s not easy to achieve such a reputation, but the Black Soprano Family capo has earned his place at the top. Though his new album The Plugs I Met 2 has only been released for mere hours, and like a fine wine will likely improve with ample time to breathe, it’s hard to deny the immediacy of the 2 Chainz-assisted “Plug Talk,” a standout that finds producer Harry Fraud swerving into some interesting territory.
Blending his signature soulful samples with the up-tempo drums oft-seen today, Fraud’s atmospheric production weaves a subplot on its own. Benny attacks the beat first, spitting at a dexterous pace as he reflects on having toes in two distinct worlds. “I fucked around and got famous right when the dope game got dangerous,” he raps. “In my interviews talkin’ plug talk, on my last album, I explained it.” Though some might have pondered as to how effectively 2 Chainz would fare at the Griselda table, the longtime trapper wastes little time in finding common ground with The Butcher.
Check out Benny and Harry Fraud‘s “Plug Talk,” one of many standout tracks on the brand new album The Plugs I Met 2.
QUOTABLE LYRICS
Body like she work at Magic
And since I’m rich, I deserve her
If she fuck a broke ni*ga, that’s tragic
I flew her in from Houston, she listen to Scarface and Travis
CJ Enlists French Montana & Rowdy Rebel For “Whoopty (Remix)”
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The “Loyalty Over Royalty” rapper is looking to expand the shelf life of his breakout hit.
It’s the track that put him on the map, and now CJ is back with the remix to his single “Whoopty.” As expected, French Montana makes an appearance alongside Rowdy Rebel, and along with the updated version of the single comes a fast-paced visual. The crew came out to play in the streets of New York for the music video and recruited a few puppies for protection in the process.
“Whoopty” was featured on CJ’s recently released EP Loyalty Over Royalty, a project that was executive produced by French. While speaking with us for our Rise & Grind series, CJ praised French for helping him navigate his career. “Shout out to French. You know, that’s family. He just wanted to help out on this project and just give me some guidance,” said the rapper.
“I’m seven months in the game. He’s been in the game for a little while,” he added. “He knows the ins-and-outs of this industry. He just wanted to guide me in the right direction and help me with this project. But yeah, shout out to French. That’s family right there.”
She jump off the Vert like Uzi (For what?)
Blue cheese
Hunnids, hunnids, blue cheese (Hunnids, hunnids)
Model face like Karrueche
Make up like Jeezy and Gucci (Brr)
Ty Dolla $ign Adds Bryson Tiller To “By Yourself (Remix)” Ft. Jhené Aiko & Mustard
Ty Dolla $ign
The original track made an appearance on “Featuring Ty Dolla $ign.”
He first released his women’s empowerment single “By Yourself” back in October, and all these months later, Ty Dolla $ign remixes the track with help from Bryson Tiller. The original version of the single made an appearance on Ty’s last LP, Featuring Ty Dolla $ign, and hosted looks from Jhené Aiko and Mustard. The trio of Los Angeles-based artists linked with Tiller for the update where he adds his much-praised vocals to the uplifting track.
It’s unknown if any other Featuring Ty Dolla $ign tracks will receive the remix attention, but for now, fans are enjoying this latest version. Additionally, it’s been a busy time for Aiko and Tiller, as the former’s debut mixtape Sailing Soul(s) finally hit streaming services, while Tiller recently shared the deluxe edition of his album Anniversary.
Stream “By Yourself (Remix)” and let us know what you think.
Quotable Lyrics
You ain’t prеssed (Pressed)
You want biggеr things and better things (Things)
Put that work in, stay on your job
You don’t break a sweat (No, oh)
In the mirror takin’ pics ’cause you know you the sh*t
Snoop Dogg Rocks Death Row Chain In Visual To Bossed Up “C.E.O.” Single
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The veteran rapper spit bars about his reign in and out of the Rap game.
For decades, Snoop Dogg has been making boss moves from the studio to the boardroom. The Long Beach legend has reformed his entire brand and now, he’s more recognized for his close friendship with Martha Stewart than the legal troubles of his youth. Snoop has returned with a new single “C.E.O.,” reportedly produced by Rick Rock, where he reminds the world why he is deserving of respect—and of course, Snoop didn’t miss a beat in plugging his INDOGGO liquor brand.
“I’ve been a boss and entrepreneur in this game for decades and I keep on building my empire,” Snoop told Rolling Stone. “My new single, ‘C.E.O.’ talks about the work and hustle I put in to be the boss. With moves like launching my own liquor brand, INDOGGO, and with weed brands, shows, and more, I stay on my grind.”
Watch Snoop Dogg rock his iced out Death Row Records chain in the visual to “C.E.O.”
Quotable Lyrics
Snoop Dogg in the building, yes, y’all
Line ’em up, barbershop, fade em all
Watching the game from the halls of fame
I’m balling, mayne, I boss up back in this thang
Believe me, bro, you wanna stick around and see the show
See me go, Snoop Dogg CEO
Talib Kweli & Diamond D Ready “Gotham” Album With “The Quiet One” Ft. Busta Rhymes
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The veteran artists come together for a bar-heavy collaboration.
After taking a bit of a hiatus, Busta Rhymes is back in full force. The rapper is featured on “The Quiet One,” the latest release from Talib Kweli and Diamond D. The latter two artists have worked together on Gotham, their album that hits streaming services on April 16. We’ve already received the A.F.R.O.-assisted “Far Out Bar Out,” and now they’ve returned with a track that taps into the origins of Hip Hop.
On “The Quiet One,” you won’t find a trap-themed production or autotuned artists; the veteran rappers give a more old-school approach to the artistry of rap, and it’s something that has paid off well for all artists involved, including Bronx producer Diamond D. Stream “The Quiet One” and let us know if there are any bars that caught your attention.
Quotable Lyrics
I was never the quiet one
Been the voice of the people for my entire run
1991 that’s when I begun
Ant Clemons Unpacks His Highs & Lows On New Single “Story Of My Life”
Legion / Human Re Sources
Ant Clemons returns with his new single “Story Of My Life”.
Grammy Award-winning artist Ant Clemons is officially back and he’s introducing himself with the introspective new single “Story Of My Life”.
Fresh off his latest win at the Grammy Awards for his work on Kanye West’s Jesus Is King, Ant Clemons has released his new song, which unpacks the highs and lows of his life so far. Exploring the hardships that have designed him as a human being, Ant also speaks on his work with Kanye West, Pharrell, and more of his idols. He speaks directly to his parents on the record, explaining why a 9-5 job wouldn’t have worked out for him and making himself known as a son, a king, and a best friend.
Listen to the new single from Ant Clemons below to learn more about him.
Quotable Lyrics:
My path ain’t in no 9-5
I made a plan and talked to God
He said there’s pages left to write
This is the story of my life
Some chapters I thought I might die
Had my heart broke a couple times
I don’t complain cause I survived
This just the story of my life
Deante Hitchcock’s new “Atlanta Tuesdays” drop finds him spitting two minutes of bars over Drake’s “What’s Next.”
It’s the number one song in the United States, so it’s not entirely unsurprising that Deante Hitchcock has opted to tackle the Drake single. Enter the new chapter of Hitchcock’s Atlanta Tuesdays freestyle series, the simply-titled “What’s Next Freestyle.” Taking to Supah Mario‘s synthesizer-driven beat, Hitchcock kicks back and fires off a casual — but still lyrically-driven– flow.
“Gotta watch out for this run I finna go on, n***as feel like they balling with Vick,” he raps. “Before we met I just met happy hour lil bitch, that just mean I was already lit / catching plays like that boy Larry Fitz / got the world in my hand, end this shit with the ball of a fist.” He proceeds to spit bars for two minutes straight, prompting fans to immediately queue up Better and revisit his acclaimed debut album. On that note, it seems as if this new batch of Atlanta Tuesdays suggests an imminent release from Hitchcock, so stay tuned to see what the final destination has in store.
What do you make of Deante Hitchcock’s take on “What’s Next?”
QUOTABLE LYRICS
Gotta watch out for this run I finna go on, n***as feel like they balling with Vick,
Before we met I just met happy hour lil bitch, that just mean I was already lit
Catching plays like that boy Larry Fitz
Got the world in my hand, end this shit with the ball of a fist
Method Man & Streetlife Spit Bars On “Story Of My Life”
2021 Distrolord
Longtime collaborators Streetlife and Method Man have done it again, spitting bars on “Story Of My Life.”
Streetlife and Method Man have been collaborating for years now, and that loyalty has endured to this day. A few weeks ago — alas, we missed this one at initial release — the pair came through to deliver a new single called “Story Of My Life,” which is set to appear on Streetlife’s upcoming album of the same name. Taking to a vintage sample-driven beat by producer KDef, the track wastes little time in setting a tone.
Streetlife sets it off with some reflective bars, musing with an air of contentment on the fruits of his labor. “I separated the street from the artist, now the top of the chart be the target,” he raps. “You gotta make em love you, fear you, or respect you / I got em’ all checked so let’s start it.” Method Man steps in to close out the track with a verse, his signature flow as sharp as the Shaolin sword he still deftly bears. “I probably robbed your father for his chain,” he muses, without a hint of remorse. “And I probably die a martyr cause I started with a bang / take another’s garments, get retarded with the slang.”
Check it out for yourself now, and look for Streetlife’s Story Of My Life to drop later this summer.
QUOTABLE LYRICS
93′ Lp told you to Enter The
You sus got a stick in your butt, told you to enema
The story of my life uncut, its like a cinema,
Consider this considerably, I don’t consider ya
Cypress Hill Link With Black Milk For “Champion Sound”
2021 Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill and Black Milk join forces for “Champion Sound,” which finds the group returning to their hip-hop roots.
The legendary Cypress Hill has come through with a new single, linking up with Detroit producer Black Milk for “Champion Sound.” With the track arriving as part of the upcoming RBI Baseball 21 soundtrack, a video game that hits consoles and PC today, it doesn’t necessarily signal a forthcoming release from the west coast collective. Yet Cypress Hill previously teased that their upcoming album would be produced in its entirety by Black Milk, so perhaps we’re looking at an early glimpse.
Milk’s sonic fingerprints are all over this one, as dusty samples combine with crisp drum and a groovy bassline. Though their previous effort Elephants On Acid found Cypress Hill exploring a more experimental sound, this track finds them employing a more straightforward approach — which is to say, Sen Dog and B-Real spitting bars over a grimy instrumental. “It ain’t a riddle, we never play in the middle,” spits B, catching a slick pocket. “We spin it, you feel a little / Hesitation, you’re so riddled.”
Check out “Champion Sound” now, and sound off if you’re excited to see what Cypress Hill and Black Milk have been cooking up these past few years.
QUOTABLE LYRICS
And you could never stop runnin’
When you see me pop
When you could predict the outcome
Hands raised, I’m the champion
It ain’t a riddle, we never play in the middle
Trey Songz flips the viral hit for his latest #TriggaMix.
TikTok certainly has a way of taking relatively unknown and turning them into viral smashes. That’s what happened with Mooski’s hit record, “Track Star.” The song picked up a serious wave on social media after a viral dance challenge began to pick up steam and now, it’s sitting high up on many Spotify and Apple playlists.
It was only a matter of time until it began to get remixed by some heavy hitters in the industry. Trey Songz took to Instagram over the weekend where he hinted at a remix, and then, he slid through with his own #TriggaMix. Putting his own spin to the track, Trey Songz flexes his vocal chops with details of his bedroom fantasies.
Check out Trey’s take on Mooski’s viral track below.
Quotable Lyrics She gon’ wet it up, she gon’ lick it off
Fuckin’ with them workers when you need a boss
Come and ride this dick like a pornstar
He’s an R&B singer with a southern flow , soulful , inspired by gospel music .
Working with artists & producers over the years such as : Jill Scott , Rick James R.I.P , Twista , The Hamiltones , Jadakiss , 9th Wonder among Many Others .
Recently he released the below song Produces by 9th Wonder :
He started singing in his church’s choir at age 10. He attended South Mecklenburg High School where he sang in their award-winning choir under the direction of Mark Setzer. In 1992, he met producer Mark Sparks who encouraged Hamilton to leave Charlotte and head to New York City where he signed with Andre Harrell‘s Uptown Records. Hamilton co-wrote the 1999 hit “U Know What’s Up” for singer Donell Jones. In 2000, he joined soul singer D’Angelo‘s international tour in promotion of the Voodoo album, on which he was a backup singer. On March 25, 2016, he released his ninth studio album What I’m Feelin‘ featuring guitarists Gary Clark, Jr. and Vince Gill with tracks produced by Mark Batson, Salaam Remi, and James Poyser. After one week, the project ranked number two on the Billboard R&B chart, representing his highest career debut. Hamilton works with the background singers the HamilTones, often performing soul renditions of hip hop tracks.
Hamilton was first introduced to mainstream audiences with his singing of the chorus of Nappy Roots 2002 single “Po’ Folks” which earned a Grammy Award nomination for “Best Rap/Sung Collaboration” in 2003. “Po’ Folks” is the second single from the multi-platinum Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz album.He followed up with three collaborations on Nappy Roots next Atlantic Records release Wooden Leather with “Sick & Tired”, “Push On”, “Organic” and then one feature on The Humdinger on the single “Down N’ Out”. Nappy Roots and Hamilton have a song together called “Bluegrass Stain’d” with Mark Ronson that was released through Elektra Records.
The Carnival is the debut album released by Wyclef Jean. The album was released on June 24, 1997, Wyclef Jean also served as the album’s executive producer. The album was a critical and commercial success, reaching at number sixteen on the US Billboard 200 chart, and peaked at number four on the US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and garnered Jean two Grammy Award nominations at the 40th Grammy Awards, including one for Best Rap Album. The other for his top 10 hit “Gone till November” earned Jean a nomination for Best Rap Solo Performance at the 41st Grammy Awards in 1999.
Wyclef produces the album by himself and brings all fugess members to the album also in the production of it .
The Fugees would make their first televised appearance in almost ten years at BET‘s 2005 Music Awards on June 28, opening the show with a twelve-minute set. With a new album announced to be in the works, one track, “Take It Easy”, was leaked online and eventually released as an Internet single on September 27, 2005. It peaked at number 40 on the BillboardR&B Chart but was met with poor reviews, noting its radical departure from the Fugees’ sound.
After that single release , the officialy broke up in the end of 2005 and ever since they didn’t preform at all .
According for today , Hill dropped out of music , Wyclef still makin’ music and wishin’ he’ll be a president someday .
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