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5/12/25

Valee & Curren$y Release “Driver’s Ed”

Valee and Harry Fraud continue their collaborative hot streak with “Driver’s Ed,” a laid-back new single featuring Curren$y. The track serves as a teaser for their upcoming nine-track joint project EGONOMICS, due out May 16. “Driver’s Ed” pairs Fraud’s dreamy sax-driven production with chilled, effortless flows from both MCs. Curren$y leans into his signature smooth delivery, while Valee keeps things breezy and understated. It’s a hypnotic mix of hazy luxury and grounded grit. This release follows a run of strong 2024 projects for Harry Fraud, including The Bricktionary with Boldy James and Lavish Misery with Ransom. With EGONOMICS around the corner, this trio shows no signs of slowing down.

Naomi Sharon Shines On Emotional Title Track “The Only Love We Know”

Naomi Sharon has officially returned with The Only Love We Know, a soulful new EP anchored by its stunning title track. On the song, she explores the patterns of love shaped by fear and familiarity, singing, “Tell me where we go from here / If all that we know is fear.” In an interview with Rated RnB, Sharon described the track as one of the most special moments of the project—so impactful that it inspired the EP’s name. Fans are already praising the release, with many calling her sound timeless and even comparing her emotional depth to Sade. With this single, Naomi Sharon continues to carve out a lane of her own in modern R&B.

Tana Releases Explosive New Single “New Cash”

Tana is back with “New Cash,” a distorted, high-energy track that previews his upcoming third studio album, Me. The 18-year-old Georgia rapper taps into themes of wealth, women, and independence, riding the momentum from his 2024 project BANA and a run on Lil Tecca’s HVN ON EARTH tour. While the album doesn’t yet have a release date, it’s expected to include previous single “18” and continue showcasing Tana’s evolution from viral success to full-fledged artist. With a loyal fanbase and a knack for energetic, off-kilter bangers, Me is shaping up to be a major milestone in his young career.

Homeboy Sandman Drops “Infinite Pockets” Ahead of New EP Manners

Homeboy Sandman returns with “Infinite Pockets,” the gritty, no-frills lead single from his upcoming EP Manners, entirely produced by Brand the Builder. Known for his lyrical dexterity and unmatched vocabulary, Sandman delivers razor-sharp bars over dusty drums and raw basement knock—classic boom-bap with a purpose. This marks Sandman’s third project of the year, following Dancing Tree with Illingsworth and Corn Hole Legend with yeyts. Despite the pace, there’s no drop-off in quality—just pure, unfiltered lyricism. Fresh off a European tour and multiple standout features with the likes of Blu, Aesop Rock, and Asher Roth, Sandman proves once again that he’s a torchbearer for underground rap. Manners is shaping up to be another testament to his consistency, creativity, and refusal to chase trends. Expect more heat from him before 2025 is out.

NxWorries Slide Back Into the Spotlight With Breezy Soul Groove “Everybody Gets Down”

NxWorries—the magnetic duo of Anderson .Paak and Knxwledge—have returned with “Everybody Gets Down,” a velvety neo-soul gem that’s perfect for the onset of summer. Their signature blend of mellow R&B, hip-hop, and warm vintage vibes instantly sets the mood, and this latest offering feels tailor-made for steamy nights and dimly lit lounges. Built around Knxwledge’s hypnotic production, the track opens with soft keys and a relaxed tempo that evokes the feel of an ‘80s smoky club, complete with flickers of disco woven throughout. It’s the kind of atmosphere only NxWorries can create—sultry, low-key, and effortlessly stylish. Anderson .Paak floats over the beat with charisma and control, channeling themes of passion, temptation, and irresistible attraction with his unmistakable vocal tone. The release comes just weeks after the duo’s long-awaited second album Why Lawd?, their first full-length in eight years. The project delivered a star-studded feature list—including Snoop Dogg, Earl Sweatshirt, Thundercat, H.E.R., and Charlie Wilson—and was met with praise from both fans and critics for its cohesion, groove, and timeless charm. This new single feels like a victory lap, or perhaps the first step into a new chapter. Adding to the intrigue, fans are buzzing about a major announcement rumored to be around the corner. Speculation ranges from a deluxe version of Why Lawd? to an upcoming tour or even a new project entirely. Nothing is confirmed yet, but one thing’s for sure: NxWorries are heating up just in time for summer, and “Everybody Gets Down” is a smooth reminder of why their chemistry remains unmatched.

Trey Songz Glides Over Smooth New Track "Can't Stay Mad"

Trey Songz returns with “Can’t Stay Mad,” a buttery, five-minute R&B track that showcases his signature vocal style over orchestral and bass-heavy production. The song opens with cinematic strings before transitioning into a smooth groove, creating the perfect backdrop for Trey’s heartfelt storytelling. Lyrically, Trey explores familiar territory—a woman who constantly frustrates him, yet he finds himself unable to stay upset. It’s a theme he’s tackled before, but here, it’s elevated by the lush arrangement and his matured delivery. The blend of vulnerability and passion hits the sweet spot his fans have always loved. While “Can’t Stay Mad” doesn’t break new ground, it’s a strong reminder of Trey’s consistency and charm. With summer around the corner, this track could signal the start of a bigger rollout. If more music is on the way, he’s off to a promising start.

5/10/25

billy woods, E L U C I D & Cavalier Deliver Gut-Wrenching Lyricism On Powerful New Single "Lead Paint Test"

billy woods teams up with E L U C I D and Cavalier for the soul-stirring track "Lead Paint Test," a haunting and emotionally dense single that easily earns a spot in the conversation for song of the year. As the final preview of woods’ upcoming solo album GOLLIWOG, dropping May 9, the track cements the project's tone: cerebral, poignant, and unapologetically real. For fans of vivid, boundary-pushing storytelling in hip-hop, “Lead Paint Test” isn’t just a single—it’s an experience. From the opening bars, the song paints a bleak and reflective picture. billy woods raps like someone unearthing long-buried truths, speaking on generational pain, environmental neglect, and the quiet violence of systemic oppression. His verses are raw and weighty, delivered with a measured cadence that demands your full attention. E L U C I D follows suit with a verse that’s both chaotic and meditative, using dense wordplay and vivid imagery to expand on the song’s themes. Cavalier adds an emotionally resonant final layer, weaving personal trauma and political critique into his tightly wound verse. The production complements the subject matter perfectly. Somber and minimalistic, the beat allows the verses to breathe while adding an unsettling undercurrent to the entire track. The result is a sonic landscape that feels both intimate and expansive, pulling the listener into a world where every line hits like a heavy truth. As woods prepares to release GOLLIWOG, "Lead Paint Test" shows that the album is poised to be one of the most compelling statements in underground rap this year. If this track is any indication, billy woods is once again proving that he's not just one of the best writers in hip-hop—he’s one of the best, period.

Bas, Ab-Soul & The Hics Create Vibes On New Single "Norbit" Ahead Of Collaborative Album

Bas, Ab-Soul, and The Hics have joined forces for their latest single "Norbit," a dreamy, introspective track that offers fans a taste of what’s to come from their upcoming collaborative album, Melanchronica. Ab-Soul's lyrical brilliance takes center stage on this track, as he effortlessly blends his signature style with Bas and The Hics' atmospheric sound. Bas, the ever-dedicated Dreamville representative, has been building anticipation for his Melanchronica project, set for release on June 17. This collaboration with the alternative collective The Hics marks a shift towards a more experimental and ethereal sound, which fans are eager to explore further. "Norbit" brings a lush, ambient backdrop to the forefront, providing the perfect setting for the trio's harmonious blend of thoughtful verses and captivating melodies. Ab-Soul, known for his complex wordplay and reflective lyricism, contributes an intricate verse that feels like a moment of revelation, spazzing with energy while maintaining the smooth and mellow vibe of the track. Bas and The Hics’ combination of dreamy production and emotive vocal delivery rounds out the song, creating a layered, atmospheric vibe that keeps listeners hooked. With Melanchronica just around the corner, "Norbit" serves as the perfect preview of the album's genre-blurring style. Fans are sure to be counting down the days until the full project drops, and "Norbit" only heightens the excitement for what's to come.

Stormzy Delivers Emotional Release With "Hold Me Down" and Freestyle "Sorry Rach!"

Stormzy surprised fans yesterday with the release of two new tracks: the intense freestyle "Sorry Rach!" and the more vulnerable "Hold Me Down." These marks his first solo releases in two years, and they showcase a new layer to the rapper’s artistry. While "Sorry Rach!" features the familiar quick-witted, sharp delivery Stormzy is known for, "Hold Me Down" dives into a more personal, introspective territory. In "Hold Me Down," Stormzy opens up about his struggles with emotional hardships, exploring themes of loneliness and the need for support from loved ones. The track is built around a moody instrumental, with subtle production that complements his raw, heartfelt lyrics. It’s a departure from the more energetic and politically charged Stormzy fans are used to, revealing his willingness to be vulnerable in front of his audience. The accompanying music video for "Hold Me Down" mirrors the song’s introspective nature, featuring minimalist visuals that focus on Stormzy’s presence and the emotional weight of the track. Both tracks demonstrate Stormzy’s growth as an artist, showing a willingness to experiment with sound while staying authentic to himself. Fans are eager to see where this new direction leads, and Stormzy has proven once again that he’s a multifaceted artist who’s not afraid to push boundaries.

Kid Cudi Embraces His Inner Lost Boy in "NEVERLAND" Ahead of 'Man On The Moon 3'

Kid Cudi is back with a highly anticipated single, "NEVERLAND," that perfectly captures the essence of his introspective and otherworldly approach to music. Known for his cult-like following, Cudi has established himself as a pioneer of emotional rap, blending dark themes with uplifting messages. With the release of "NEVERLAND," he continues his journey of self-exploration, tapping into his "Lost Boy" fantasies, much like fans have seen in his earlier works. "NEVERLAND" is a track that sees Cudi navigating a world of dreams, isolation, and inner conflict, drawing listeners into his own personal Neverland. It feels like a natural extension of his "Man On The Moon" series, where Cudi explored his struggles with mental health, fame, and self-worth. In this new track, Cudi reflects on his desire to escape reality and find solace in a place where he can be free from the weight of the world. As fans eagerly await the third installment of the Man On The Moon series, "NEVERLAND" provides a glimpse into what’s to come. The single is filled with lush, atmospheric production and Cudi’s signature melodic style, blending his crooning vocals with introspective bars that speak to his vulnerabilities. The track feels like a dream-like escape that offers a moment of peace for both Cudi and his listeners, reinforcing his status as one of hip-hop’s most emotionally resonant figures. With "NEVERLAND," Kid Cudi not only delivers a song that showcases his signature style but also proves once again why he has such a loyal fanbase. His ability to connect with his audience on a deeply personal level is unmatched, and "NEVERLAND" feels like the perfect prelude to the much-anticipated Man On The Moon 3. As Cudi takes his fans deeper into his imaginative world, it's clear that his influence on hip-hop will continue to evolve in fascinating ways.

That Mexican OT & Lil Wayne Team Up on "Baby Mad At Me" to Keep It Real

That Mexican OT and Lil Wayne connect on the laid-back track "Baby Mad At Me," where they both drop their nonchalant takes on love and loyalty, dismissing the drama surrounding relationships. The track captures their shared swagger, with That Mexican OT bringing his signature Texas drawl and Lil Wayne providing his usual witty wordplay and smooth delivery. "Baby Mad At Me" is a perfect example of how these two artists balance out each other's styles. While That Mexican OT brings a regional, hard-hitting flair, Wayne's verse adds an international, star-studded touch, showing how far-reaching the Texan rapper's influence has become. Both artists focus on a common theme of independence, making it clear they aren’t concerned with the pressures of relationships or "ho drama." Despite some controversy surrounding the beef between That Mexican OT and Lefty Gunplay, who’ve exchanged diss tracks, this collaboration with Lil Wayne marks an important moment in OT's growing career. His feature on the track shows that his signature style is catching the attention of rap royalty. Lil Wayne’s support of newer artists like OT further exemplifies his ongoing investment in shaping the future of hip-hop. As the Young Money boss relaunches his roster with fresh talent, “Baby Mad At Me” serves as a solid reminder that the legendary rapper is not only about paving the way for the greats but also empowering the next generation. The track sets the stage for OT’s rise and his potential to disrupt the game, with Wayne as a steady ally in his corner. Fans are excited to see what the future holds for both artists, and this track marks just the beginning of more collaborations to come. With "Baby Mad At Me," they’ve certainly set a high bar for what’s to come next in the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop.

Doechii Takes Over "Timeless" Remix with The Weeknd & Playboi Carti

Doechii takes center stage on the highly anticipated "Timeless" remix featuring The Weeknd and Playboi Carti, adding her own distinct flair to an already star-studded track. The original version of "Timeless" had already been a standout, but with Doechii's powerful verse and charismatic delivery, the remix elevates the song to new heights, showcasing her ability to seamlessly blend into any musical landscape while making it distinctly her own. Since stepping onto the scene, Doechii has established herself as an undeniable talent with her eclectic style, which effortlessly bridges rap, R&B, and experimental sounds. Her presence on this remix only reinforces her rising status in the industry as a force to be reckoned with. Her ability to match the energy of both The Weeknd’s smooth crooning and Playboi Carti's playful energy highlights her versatility as an artist. The "Timeless" remix is a perfect example of the growing anticipation surrounding Doechii's upcoming projects, including her debut album. As the track pulses with vibrant production and atmospheric beats, Doechii’s verse adds an undeniable edge, spitting with both confidence and clarity. Her flow is sharp, while her delivery maintains the sultry, smooth vibe that has become synonymous with her style. This collaboration with two of music's biggest stars underscores Doechii's continued growth and presence in the mainstream spotlight. Fans are eagerly awaiting what she will bring next, and with "Timeless" as a prime example, it's clear that she’s only getting started.

Tyla Delivers Charming New Single "Bliss" Ahead of Her Highly Anticipated 2025 Album Release

Tyla is back with a captivating new single, "Bliss," giving fans a glimpse of what’s to come from her upcoming album, set for release in 2025. The South African singer has quickly become a rising star in the music scene, and "Bliss" only solidifies her growing reputation as one of the most exciting talents of her generation. After the success of her Grammy-winning single "Water" and the release of her debut self-titled album in March 2024, Tyla has proven herself as a versatile artist. Her debut album showcased her ability to blend R&B, amapiano, pop, and various other genres, earning her recognition as a talent to watch. With "Bliss," she continues to showcase her signature style, effortlessly combining melodic hooks and infectious rhythms that captivate listeners from the very first note. The single is a testament to her growth as an artist, with a sound that feels both fresh and intimate. In "Bliss," Tyla sings about the euphoria of being in love and the joy that comes with feeling truly seen and appreciated by someone special. Her enchanting vocals float over the smooth production, creating a dreamy atmosphere that perfectly matches the song's theme of being head over heels. With her second studio album on the horizon, "Bliss" sets the stage for what’s sure to be another standout project. Fans are eagerly anticipating the full album, excited to see how Tyla will continue to evolve and push the boundaries of her unique sound. If "Bliss" is any indication, her upcoming album will be another impressive chapter in her already promising career.

Logic Declares He's "SOLD OUT" on Braggadocious New Single Ahead of "SideQuest" Release

Logic is back with his latest track "SOLD OUT," and this one marks a shift in his musical approach as he continues down the "rage music" path. The new single is part of his upcoming project SideQuest, an album that promises a change of pace from his previous works. While fans are used to Logic’s intricate lyricism, SideQuest is shaping up to be a more experimental, Playboi Carti-influenced release, focusing on the high-energy, trap-infused sounds that have gained popularity in recent years. On "SOLD OUT," Logic embraces a braggadocious tone, delivering a track that feels reminiscent of his Bobby Tarantino mixtape series. The song might sound like a typical trap banger at first glance, but Logic adds his personal flair with his confident bars and catchy hooks. While it may not break new ground, "SOLD OUT" does exactly what it sets out to do—create an anthem of unapologetic success and boastful energy. This new direction is a notable shift from the dense lyricism that characterized his Ultra 85 album, but it’s clear that Logic is embracing this new side of himself with enthusiasm. Though “SOLD OUT” might not be as groundbreaking as some of his previous work, it’s a fun, energetic offering that fits well within the "rage" subgenre of rap music. SideQuest is still a bit of a mystery, but with "SOLD OUT" signaling the tone of what's to come, fans can expect a project full of bass-heavy beats, catchy hooks, and plenty of self-assured bars. Whether or not it reaches the same heights as Logic’s past classics remains to be seen, but it’s clear that he’s willing to experiment and push his sound in new directions. As he continues to evolve as an artist, SideQuest is shaping up to be an intriguing next chapter in Logic’s career.

Russ Drops Joyful New Single "Crazy" as He Prepares for Upcoming Album "W!LD"

Russ keeps the momentum going with his latest single "Crazy," a playful and upbeat track that showcases the artist's affectionate side. In "Crazy," Russ expresses his admiration and devotion to his woman, singing about giving her whatever she desires. It's a quick, feel-good anthem that’s likely to resonate with listeners who enjoy his signature blend of smooth rap and melodic delivery. This release is part of a string of singles Russ has dropped in the lead-up to his upcoming album, W!LD. Since the end of March, Russ has been consistently releasing music that hints at the direction of his next major project. Each track has felt like a natural evolution of his sound, and "Crazy" continues that trend, offering a joyous and carefree vibe that contrasts with some of his earlier, more introspective work. The consistent quality of these singles reflects that Russ is in a happy place both personally and professionally. The positive energy he's channeling into his music is palpable, and it seems like he's found a sense of contentment that is evident in the upbeat nature of his recent releases. As he approaches the release of W!LD, it’s clear that Russ is bringing a fresh perspective and renewed energy to his music. Fans have been eagerly awaiting W!LD, and with each new single, the anticipation only builds. "Crazy" is another solid addition to Russ's growing catalog, showcasing his versatility and his ability to craft songs that connect with listeners on a personal level. As he prepares to drop the album, it’s clear that Russ is entering a new chapter in his musical career, one that’s marked by joy, growth, and confidence.