NEW SINGLES  —————————

By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 15, 2025
Jeff “Mr. Trombone” Bradshaw teams up with Grammy winner Anthony Hamilton for the soulful new single “Nothing Else Matters,” from his upcoming sixth studio album The Cure . Written and produced by Vidal Davis with co-writes from Bradshaw, Hamilton, and Jarius Mozee, the track celebrates the power of love and devotion. Out now via Music Matters/SRG Jazz, The Cure is a 10-song collection featuring R&B and Jazz greats such as Dave Hollister and Jeff Coffin, offering Bradshaw’s signature blend of healing, uplifting music.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 15, 2025
19-year-old Nigerian Afrobeats and R&B sensation Qing Madi has unveiled her new single “Scumbag.” First teased online as early as June 2025, the track weaves a tale of a troubled love story, brought to life through Madi’s distinctive sound and emotive delivery.

NEW ALBUM

By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 15, 2025
Keri Hilson makes a powerful return with We Need to Talk: Drama , the second installment in her ambitious trilogy that unfolds like a film. Following April’s We Need to Talk: Love , this new chapter dives into betrayal, heartbreak, and emotional growth, capturing the turbulence of a broken romance. To build anticipation, Hilson joined the viral “Put a finger down” trend, hinting at her own story of a love gone wrong. Released through Audible Art Club/Create Music Group, her first independent venture, Drama cements Hilson’s evolution as an artist, reclaiming her voice after a 15-year hiatus.

PREMIERING NOW

By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 15, 2025
Jermaine Dupri, GRAMMY-winning producer and Songwriters Hall of Famer, has dropped his full-length album Magic City alongside the powerful video for its focus track, “Atlanna” featuring CeeLo Green. A true Atlanta anthem, the record embodies the city’s pride, grit, and soul through Dupri’s signature production and CeeLo’s commanding vocals. Released in tandem with the finale of STARZ’s Magic City: An American Fantasy , which Dupri executive produced, “Atlanna” honors Atlanta’s past, present, and future while further cementing his legendary legacy.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 15, 2025
Grammy-winning R&B star Ella Mai brings her latest single “Tell Her” to life with a stylish new video directed by Cole Santiago. Backing verses that pay homage to Destiny’s Child, the visual finds Mai taking on playful office roles while confidently reminding her lover to keep his ex in check. With sharp lyrics and a commanding presence, she delivers a message of love, loyalty, and self-assurance. Blending empowerment with creativity, “Tell Her” builds momentum for Ella’s return, signaling the start of an exciting new chapter in her artistry.

NOW PLAYING  ———————————————————————

By Cleon Alert September 11, 2025
Keith Sweat makes a powerful return with the video for his new single “Working,” featuring rising Nigerian star Qing Madi. The groovy track blends classic R&B with Afro-soul, exploring love’s persistence and the struggle of proving yourself to someone you cherish. Sweat’s smooth, seasoned delivery pairs seamlessly with Qing Madi’s youthful, soulful tone, creating a cross-generational dialogue that feels both global and deeply personal. Together, they craft a heartfelt anthem about devotion, vulnerability, and the relentless effort to keep love alive.
By Cleon Alert September 11, 2025
Neo-soul singer Isis Chanel unveils the video for her heartfelt single “Missing Piece,” a tender reflection on love and connection. Born in Detroit, Isis draws from the city’s Motown and Techno legacy, blending R&B, funk, pop, and house into her signature sound. Directed by Isis herself with co-director Meaghan Sutton, the visual captures her poetic storytelling as she contemplates life and love, declaring her partner the true “missing piece” that completes her journey.
By Cleon Alert September 11, 2025
Rising UK R&B trio FLO (Jorja Douglas, Stella Quaresma, and Renée Downer) have unveiled The Mood (Remixes) EP, reimagining their signature sound for the dancefloor. Known for their viral debut “Cardboard Box,” the London group now embraces club-ready energy with four dynamic remixes. The project features contributions from Jayda G, p-rallel, Berlin-London collective Bees & Honey, and rising talent GEE LEE, each bringing fresh textures to FLO’s silky, perfume-like vocals. Out now, the EP highlights the group’s versatility and global ambition as they continue redefining UK music.
By Cleon Alert September 11, 2025
FALLON, formerly of Cherish, unleashes raw emotion on her new single “Hate You,” produced by Harv (Mariah Carey, Justin Bieber). With pillow-soft vocals delivering razor-sharp lyrics to a deceitful ex, the track marks the first glimpse of her upcoming EP Both Sides. Poised as her debut solo project, it reveals a vulnerable yet fierce new chapter.
By Cleon Alert September 11, 2025
London musician Alfa Mist has shared his new double single, Give Nothing and Dersen Cafe, from his forthcoming album Roulette, arriving October 3. Known for fusing jazz, hip-hop, and classical influences, Alfa showcases his range with these contrasting tracks: the breakbeat-fueled Give Nothing brims with tension and spoken-word grit, while Dersen Cafe drifts into late-night jazz ambience.
By Status Ain't Hood staff September 8, 2025
Mýa returns with a fresh visual for her empowering new single “G.M.O. (Got My Own)” featuring Tink. Released August 31, the synth-driven, bass-heavy midtempo ladies’ club anthem marks a departure from her R&B-rooted albums Smoove Jones and TKO. Directed by Dana Rice and Mýa, the video channels the feel of an old-school iPod ad, featuring striking black-and-white visuals, silhouettes, sleek choreography, a Lambo, and martinis for a stylishly minimalistic vibe. 
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 8, 2025
Ice Cube delivers a powerful statement with his new single and video “Before Hip-Hop,” a track that pushes back against the unfair narrative blaming rap for crime and violence. Over a gritty, West Coast–flavored beat, Cube reminds listeners that systemic issues long predate the culture. Directed by Gabriel Hart (aka Video GOD), the video amplifies the message with striking visuals that connect past struggles to present realities, making Cube’s commentary both urgent and timeless.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 8, 2025
Paris-based R&B talent Jäde turns up the groove with her infectious new single “Dsl.” Produced by Peso20k, the track blends contemporary R&B, alt-pop, and funky rhythms into a hypnotic soundscape. Anchored by smooth keys and a bouncy beat, “Dsl” radiates confidence and sensuality while weaving the French word désolé (“sorry”) playfully throughout. Addictive and stylish, it’s a bold statement from Jäde that leaves listeners eager to dive deeper into her artistry.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 8, 2025
British-Sudanese singer-songwriter Elmiene continues his meteoric rise with Heat The Streets, a 12-track mixtape. Known for placing fifth in the BBC Sound of 2024 poll and earning a 2025 BRIT Rising Star nomination, Elmiene delivers a heartfelt project that blends original songs, interludes, and skits. A love letter to R&B’s legendary roots, the mixtape showcases his poetic lyricism, bold romanticism, and emotional depth, while keeping the sound fresh and forward-looking—solidifying his place as one of the genre’s most captivating new voices.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 8, 2025
Edubb302 returns with his powerful new single “Hood Prayer,” a raw yet inspiring anthem recorded in his hometown of Wilmington, Delaware. Blending gritty beats with layered storytelling, he paints vivid pictures of struggle, survival, and perseverance. Each bar carries the weight of experience while offering hope, making the track both deeply personal and universally relatable. With commanding delivery and unflinching honesty, “Hood Prayer” cements Edubb302’s place as a relentless, authentic voice in hip hop.

NEWS & NOTES


By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 15, 2025
History was made in Vatican City this weekend when Clipse, the iconic hip-hop duo of brothers Pusha T and No Malice, became the first rap act ever to perform at St. Peter’s Square. The performance took place on September 13 as part of the Grace for the World concert, an unprecedented event co-directed by Pharrell Williams and staged as a message of unity and peace during the World Meeting on Human Fraternity. Dressed in sharp suits, Clipse delivered a powerful rendition of “The Birds Don’t Sing” from their project Let God Sort Em Out, joined onstage by John Legend. The concert lineup was stacked with global stars including Jennifer Hudson, BamBam, Jelly Roll, Karol G, Teddy Swims, Andrea Bocelli, and Legend himself. Pharrell, a longtime friend and collaborator of the Thornton brothers, helped orchestrate the moment as co-director and executive producer through his company Something in the Water.  Beyond the music, audiences were treated to a stunning aerial drone and light show by Nova Sky Stories, which illuminated Vatican City with visuals inspired by the Sistine Chapel. “This is a rare cultural moment where the world stops and collectively tunes in,” Pharrell said ahead of the event. The evening not only marked the Vatican’s first-ever concert, but also cemented Clipse’s place in history as they carried hip-hop into one of the most sacred spaces in the world.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 15, 2025
The legacy of Teena Marie, the Ivory Queen of Soul, is about to reach a new generation through film. During a recent appearance on The Clay Cane Show, Marie’s daughter, Alia Rose, revealed that a biopic about her mother’s life is officially in the works. “There’s a book coming out about her life and I’m working on a film as well,” Rose shared. While casting details have yet to be announced, Rose made it clear she will not be portraying her mother, stressing that the audition process will be taken very seriously to find the perfect fit for the role. Rose explained that this is her second attempt at bringing her mother’s story to the screen after shelving earlier efforts nearly a decade ago. Now, working closely with a writer she admires, she feels the timing is right. “I do think there’s somebody out there one hundred percent,” Rose said, expressing her confidence that the right actress will emerge. For her, the project is about more than music—it’s about telling the story of an underdog who overcame odds and left an indelible mark on the world. Teena Marie’s career was as groundbreaking as it was inspiring. Before her untimely death in 2010 at the age of 54, she wrote, produced, arranged, and sang on 13 albums, selling more than 2.5 million copies in the SoundScan era. From her 1979 Rick James–produced debut Wild and Peaceful to hits like “Square Biz,” “I Need Your Lovin’,” “Lovergirl,” and “Ooo La La La” (later famously sampled by the Fugees) Marie cemented her place in music history. At the time of her passing, she was working on her album Beautiful, which her daughter completed, making the upcoming film yet another continuation of her enduring legacy.
By Cleon Alert September 11, 2025
A badly decomposed female body was discovered Monday inside a Tesla registered to singer D4vd at a Los Angeles impound lot, local authorities confirmed. Police were called to Hollywood Tow on North Mansfield Avenue after staff reported a foul odor coming from the vehicle. Officers located the remains inside a bag in the trunk, surrounded by police tape as investigators examined the scene. The car had been abandoned and later impounded, according to officials.  The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner said the victim, whose age and ethnicity could not be determined, had been deceased “for an extended period of time.” The woman was described as having wavy black hair and wearing a tube top, black leggings, a yellow chain bracelet, and stud earrings. Weighing approximately 71 pounds, her remains were severely decomposed, delaying formal identification. D4vd, born David Anthony Burke, is currently on his Withered World tour and was scheduled to perform in Minneapolis on Tuesday. A spokesperson confirmed the singer had been informed of the discovery and is cooperating fully with authorities. Universal Music Group referred inquiries to D4vd’s attorney, who has not yet commented. Meanwhile, Los Angeles police are also investigating an unrelated case after another body was found in a car at a tow yard in South Los Angeles, though no connection between the two incidents has been established.
By Cleon Alert September 11, 2025
Miguel is marking a special milestone: one year as a father. The Sure Thing singer revealed on Instagram Sept. 9 that he and partner Margaret Zhang privately welcomed their first child last year. Sharing a sweet video with the baby, whose face was blurred, Miguel wrote, “Our baby turned 1 today. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANGELITO!!! We love you so much.” He also revealed he wrote a song for the child to serve as a lifelong reminder of love. The joyful announcement comes three years after Miguel finalized his divorce from actress and model Nazanin Mandi, ending a marriage that spanned three years. Mandi filed for divorce in 2022, citing irreconcilable differences and requesting division of assets under their prenuptial agreement. Despite their split, the former couple often expressed mutual respect and support, even briefly rekindling their relationship months before officially parting ways.  While Miguel has kept his family life largely private, his latest post marks a new chapter filled with joy and gratitude. Fans flooded the comments with congratulations and well-wishes for the singer and Zhang. At 39, Miguel now embraces both music and fatherhood, proudly sharing his love and devotion as he enters this next stage of life.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 8, 2025
R&B veteran Kelly Price is clapping back at online critics after enduring a wave of comments about her appearance. On Tuesday (Sept. 2), the 52-year-old singer took to Instagram Live with a passionate message, calling out Black women in particular for being, in her words, “some of the most nasty, disrespectful people on God’s planet earth.” Price argued that many of her harshest critics parade as educated activists while tearing down other Black women. The “Friend of Mine” singer didn’t stop there, also addressing men who’ve ridiculed her. “Any man who feels the right to disrespect a woman who has never done anything to them… you’re a bi**h. And I mean that from the bottom of my heart,” she said. Price reminded viewers that she grew up on the South Side of Jamaica, Queens, and that while she’s saved, she’s “not above clapping back.” She further jabbed at what she labeled “DEI hires,” pointing out that while some are losing jobs, she remains consistently booked. Price’s frustration stems from constant trolling about her weight, wardrobe, and even shoe size. Critics in her comments often mock her appearance, but the Grammy-nominated singer brushed it off, saying, “I’m making my money looking like a ‘fat slob’ in clothes y’all say are nasty. And I’m still getting paid.” While admitting she’s still “a work in progress,” Price urged fans to pray for her as she continues to defend herself online. Still, she stood firm in her belief that Black women, in particular, have been the most relentless in their disrespect.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 8, 2025
Family tensions have spilled into the spotlight after Rahjah Ke’ Morton, the 23-year-old son of R&B singer Keke Wyatt, accused his mother of exploiting his past cancer diagnosis for “personal gain” and “attention.” Rahjah, who identifies as part of the LGBTQ community, claimed that while Wyatt publicly presented herself as supportive, behind closed doors she allegedly told him his illness was “karma” for being gay. The accusations surfaced Friday (Sept. 5) when Rahjah joined the viral “put a finger down” TikTok challenge. In his video, he delivered a personal prompt about being diagnosed with cancer as a teen and his parent using it to seek attention while privately expressing homophobic views. He ended the challenge with four fingers raised, a gesture that underscored his claims. The post quickly spread online, sparking widespread discussion. Supporters flooded Rahjah’s comments with messages of love and sympathy, condemning the alleged remarks. The controversy also resurfaced clips from Wyatt’s WE TV show, Keke Wyatt’s World, where Rahjah had a tense exchange with his grandmother, Lorna Wyatt, over homophobic and racial slurs. As the story gains traction, fans remain divided with some voicing disappointment in the singer, while others urge caution until Wyatt addresses the accusations directly.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 4, 2025
Montell Jordan, the R&B star best known for his 1995 hit “This Is How We Do It,” revealed on NBC’s Today that his prostate cancer has returned less than a year after undergoing a radical prostatectomy. The 56-year-old singer and pastor shared that doctors initially believed the cancer was confined to his prostate, but follow-up testing showed otherwise. During his nine-month exam, physicians detected a small amount of cancer cells in his prostate bed and lymph nodes. To address this recurrence, Jordan will undergo proton radiation therapy five days a week for nearly two months, along with hormone blockers to limit testosterone production, which fuels most prostate cancer growth. He described the treatment as “a 7½-week interruption of life to make sure that I have a longer life.” Jordan, who began regular prostate screenings at age 40, admitted his diagnosis early in 2024 came as a shock despite his healthy lifestyle. He avoids alcohol and smoking and maintains a balanced routine of diet and exercise. While the news was difficult to process, he emphasized that his quality of life has remained strong since surgery and that he is determined to continue his ministry and music work while fighting the disease.
Show More

EDITORIAL


NEWS & NOTES


By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 15, 2025
History was made in Vatican City this weekend when Clipse, the iconic hip-hop duo of brothers Pusha T and No Malice, became the first rap act ever to perform at St. Peter’s Square. The performance took place on September 13 as part of the Grace for the World concert, an unprecedented event co-directed by Pharrell Williams and staged as a message of unity and peace during the World Meeting on Human Fraternity. Dressed in sharp suits, Clipse delivered a powerful rendition of “The Birds Don’t Sing” from their project Let God Sort Em Out, joined onstage by John Legend. The concert lineup was stacked with global stars including Jennifer Hudson, BamBam, Jelly Roll, Karol G, Teddy Swims, Andrea Bocelli, and Legend himself. Pharrell, a longtime friend and collaborator of the Thornton brothers, helped orchestrate the moment as co-director and executive producer through his company Something in the Water.  Beyond the music, audiences were treated to a stunning aerial drone and light show by Nova Sky Stories, which illuminated Vatican City with visuals inspired by the Sistine Chapel. “This is a rare cultural moment where the world stops and collectively tunes in,” Pharrell said ahead of the event. The evening not only marked the Vatican’s first-ever concert, but also cemented Clipse’s place in history as they carried hip-hop into one of the most sacred spaces in the world.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 15, 2025
The legacy of Teena Marie, the Ivory Queen of Soul, is about to reach a new generation through film. During a recent appearance on The Clay Cane Show, Marie’s daughter, Alia Rose, revealed that a biopic about her mother’s life is officially in the works. “There’s a book coming out about her life and I’m working on a film as well,” Rose shared. While casting details have yet to be announced, Rose made it clear she will not be portraying her mother, stressing that the audition process will be taken very seriously to find the perfect fit for the role. Rose explained that this is her second attempt at bringing her mother’s story to the screen after shelving earlier efforts nearly a decade ago. Now, working closely with a writer she admires, she feels the timing is right. “I do think there’s somebody out there one hundred percent,” Rose said, expressing her confidence that the right actress will emerge. For her, the project is about more than music—it’s about telling the story of an underdog who overcame odds and left an indelible mark on the world. Teena Marie’s career was as groundbreaking as it was inspiring. Before her untimely death in 2010 at the age of 54, she wrote, produced, arranged, and sang on 13 albums, selling more than 2.5 million copies in the SoundScan era. From her 1979 Rick James–produced debut Wild and Peaceful to hits like “Square Biz,” “I Need Your Lovin’,” “Lovergirl,” and “Ooo La La La” (later famously sampled by the Fugees) Marie cemented her place in music history. At the time of her passing, she was working on her album Beautiful, which her daughter completed, making the upcoming film yet another continuation of her enduring legacy.
By Cleon Alert September 11, 2025
A badly decomposed female body was discovered Monday inside a Tesla registered to singer D4vd at a Los Angeles impound lot, local authorities confirmed. Police were called to Hollywood Tow on North Mansfield Avenue after staff reported a foul odor coming from the vehicle. Officers located the remains inside a bag in the trunk, surrounded by police tape as investigators examined the scene. The car had been abandoned and later impounded, according to officials.  The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner said the victim, whose age and ethnicity could not be determined, had been deceased “for an extended period of time.” The woman was described as having wavy black hair and wearing a tube top, black leggings, a yellow chain bracelet, and stud earrings. Weighing approximately 71 pounds, her remains were severely decomposed, delaying formal identification. D4vd, born David Anthony Burke, is currently on his Withered World tour and was scheduled to perform in Minneapolis on Tuesday. A spokesperson confirmed the singer had been informed of the discovery and is cooperating fully with authorities. Universal Music Group referred inquiries to D4vd’s attorney, who has not yet commented. Meanwhile, Los Angeles police are also investigating an unrelated case after another body was found in a car at a tow yard in South Los Angeles, though no connection between the two incidents has been established.
By Cleon Alert September 11, 2025
Miguel is marking a special milestone: one year as a father. The Sure Thing singer revealed on Instagram Sept. 9 that he and partner Margaret Zhang privately welcomed their first child last year. Sharing a sweet video with the baby, whose face was blurred, Miguel wrote, “Our baby turned 1 today. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANGELITO!!! We love you so much.” He also revealed he wrote a song for the child to serve as a lifelong reminder of love. The joyful announcement comes three years after Miguel finalized his divorce from actress and model Nazanin Mandi, ending a marriage that spanned three years. Mandi filed for divorce in 2022, citing irreconcilable differences and requesting division of assets under their prenuptial agreement. Despite their split, the former couple often expressed mutual respect and support, even briefly rekindling their relationship months before officially parting ways.  While Miguel has kept his family life largely private, his latest post marks a new chapter filled with joy and gratitude. Fans flooded the comments with congratulations and well-wishes for the singer and Zhang. At 39, Miguel now embraces both music and fatherhood, proudly sharing his love and devotion as he enters this next stage of life.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 8, 2025
R&B veteran Kelly Price is clapping back at online critics after enduring a wave of comments about her appearance. On Tuesday (Sept. 2), the 52-year-old singer took to Instagram Live with a passionate message, calling out Black women in particular for being, in her words, “some of the most nasty, disrespectful people on God’s planet earth.” Price argued that many of her harshest critics parade as educated activists while tearing down other Black women. The “Friend of Mine” singer didn’t stop there, also addressing men who’ve ridiculed her. “Any man who feels the right to disrespect a woman who has never done anything to them… you’re a bi**h. And I mean that from the bottom of my heart,” she said. Price reminded viewers that she grew up on the South Side of Jamaica, Queens, and that while she’s saved, she’s “not above clapping back.” She further jabbed at what she labeled “DEI hires,” pointing out that while some are losing jobs, she remains consistently booked. Price’s frustration stems from constant trolling about her weight, wardrobe, and even shoe size. Critics in her comments often mock her appearance, but the Grammy-nominated singer brushed it off, saying, “I’m making my money looking like a ‘fat slob’ in clothes y’all say are nasty. And I’m still getting paid.” While admitting she’s still “a work in progress,” Price urged fans to pray for her as she continues to defend herself online. Still, she stood firm in her belief that Black women, in particular, have been the most relentless in their disrespect.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 8, 2025
Family tensions have spilled into the spotlight after Rahjah Ke’ Morton, the 23-year-old son of R&B singer Keke Wyatt, accused his mother of exploiting his past cancer diagnosis for “personal gain” and “attention.” Rahjah, who identifies as part of the LGBTQ community, claimed that while Wyatt publicly presented herself as supportive, behind closed doors she allegedly told him his illness was “karma” for being gay. The accusations surfaced Friday (Sept. 5) when Rahjah joined the viral “put a finger down” TikTok challenge. In his video, he delivered a personal prompt about being diagnosed with cancer as a teen and his parent using it to seek attention while privately expressing homophobic views. He ended the challenge with four fingers raised, a gesture that underscored his claims. The post quickly spread online, sparking widespread discussion. Supporters flooded Rahjah’s comments with messages of love and sympathy, condemning the alleged remarks. The controversy also resurfaced clips from Wyatt’s WE TV show, Keke Wyatt’s World, where Rahjah had a tense exchange with his grandmother, Lorna Wyatt, over homophobic and racial slurs. As the story gains traction, fans remain divided with some voicing disappointment in the singer, while others urge caution until Wyatt addresses the accusations directly.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 4, 2025
Montell Jordan, the R&B star best known for his 1995 hit “This Is How We Do It,” revealed on NBC’s Today that his prostate cancer has returned less than a year after undergoing a radical prostatectomy. The 56-year-old singer and pastor shared that doctors initially believed the cancer was confined to his prostate, but follow-up testing showed otherwise. During his nine-month exam, physicians detected a small amount of cancer cells in his prostate bed and lymph nodes. To address this recurrence, Jordan will undergo proton radiation therapy five days a week for nearly two months, along with hormone blockers to limit testosterone production, which fuels most prostate cancer growth. He described the treatment as “a 7½-week interruption of life to make sure that I have a longer life.” Jordan, who began regular prostate screenings at age 40, admitted his diagnosis early in 2024 came as a shock despite his healthy lifestyle. He avoids alcohol and smoking and maintains a balanced routine of diet and exercise. While the news was difficult to process, he emphasized that his quality of life has remained strong since surgery and that he is determined to continue his ministry and music work while fighting the disease.
Show More

THROWBACK THURSDAY


By Cleon Alert September 11, 2025
This week's Throwback Thursday takes us back to 1981, when Maze featuring Frankie Beverly released one of their most beloved classics, “Before I Let Go.” Though it appeared on the band’s first live album Live in New Orleans, the track was recorded in the studio and released as the project’s second single. Written and produced by Frankie Beverly himself, the smooth yet infectious groove climbed to #13 on the Billboard R&B chart, cementing its place as a timeless anthem. While many fans know “Before I Let Go” as a joyful party favorite, its origins came from a deeply personal place. Beverly originally penned the song as a ballad about his conflicted feelings for Delores Marie “D’Marie” Warren of the group Alton McClain and Destiny. He was in love with her while still in a relationship with another woman, and those emotions inspired the lyrics. Once Beverly shared the song with Maze, the band transformed it into a more upbeat, danceable track during rehearsals—creating the version that would become iconic.  Over four decades later, “Before I Let Go” remains a cultural staple, especially within Black American communities, where it continues to light up weddings, barbecues, and family gatherings. Its legacy grew even stronger following Frankie Beverly’s passing on September 10, 2024, at the age of 77. What began as a song of bittersweet love has become a joyous celebration of life, togetherness, and the enduring artistry of Frankie Beverly and Maze.
Show More

ALBUM REVIEW


NEXT UP


SEARCH


SOUL CLAP


OUTSIDE THE STUDIO

By Status Ain't Hood Staff August 4, 2025
This is paragraph text. Click it or hit the Manage Text button to change the font, color, size, format, and more. To set up site-wide paragraph and title styles, go to Site Theme.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
Nelly and Ashanti are embracing their second chance at love—and inviting the world along for the ride. The iconic hip-hop couple, who first began dating in 2003 and split a decade later, have reunited in a big way with a new reality series, Nelly and Ashanti: We Belong Together, now streaming on Peacock.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
The legacy of reggae legend Bob Marley comes to life in a groundbreaking new attraction set to debut at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. Titled Bob Marley Hope Road: The Experience, the immersive production combines cutting-edge storytelling, design, and performance to honor Marley’s enduring message of uni
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
The plaza outside Paris’ Pompidou Center erupted in sound and spectacle on Tuesday as Pharrell Williams unveiled his latest Louis Vuitton menswear collection in a jaw-dropping display of fashion, culture, and celebrity. Beyoncé and Jay-Z headlined the front row alongside stars like Bradley Cooper, J-Hope, Karol G, Futu
Show More

THE DROP ZONE  ———————————————————————

By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 4, 2025
Christian rapper, singer and songwriter Lecrae’s tenth studio album Reconstruction is more than a title, it’s a mission statement. Built on themes of faith, discipline, and resilience, the project blends his sharp lyricism with soulful, versatile production. From Kendrick-worthy soundscapes to Griselda grit and Kanye-inspired nostalgia, Lecrae adapts effortlessly, balancing conviction, melody, and raw emotion. Featuring T.I., Killer Mike, Jon Bellion, Fridayy, and faith-driven voices like Jackie Hill Perry and Madison Ryann Ward, Reconstruction marks Lecrae’s first solo release since 2022, reaffirming his status as one of hip-hop’s most versatile storytellers.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 4, 2025
Annahstasia has unveiled the new video for “Waiting,” a standout track from her recently released album Tether. Filmed and edited by Jessica Garfield and starring Annahstasia herself, the video mirrors the song’s reflective nature while showcasing her commanding vocals and introspective lyrics. One of the album’s few tracks with a driving backbeat, “Waiting” swells with Mellotron and electric guitar as her raspy runs build to a rousing hook, capturing both exuberance and emotional release within her widescreen artistic vision.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 4, 2025
Tiara Thomas, the Grammy and Academy Award-winning singer-songwriter best known for her feature on Wale’s 2013 hit “Bad,” has released her new single, “A Hug.” The raw and emotionally charged R&B track highlights her dual artistry, blending soulful vocals with sharp, rhythmic flows. Seamlessly moving between singing and rapping, Thomas delivers a vulnerable yet powerful performance. “A Hug” follows her recent single, “Kiss Me.”
By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 4, 2025
Atlanta-born singer-songwriter and actress Jai’Len Josey turns up the energy with her sultry new single “Freak,” released via Def Jam Recordings. Produced by Tricky Stewart and Ben Parris, the track blends flirtatious lyrics with a pulsating backdrop, showcasing Josey’s powerhouse vocals. Co-written with Stewart, Parris, and Theron Thomas, “Freak” teases a playful yet bold side of her artistry, hinting at an exciting new chapter.
By Cleon Alert September 2, 2025
Johnny Drille and Tiwa Savage unite in the official video for “Over The Moon” , a soul-stirring collaboration produced by BlaiseBeatz. Blending heartfelt lyricism with lush, emotive production, the track captures the euphoria of love and connection. Johnny Drille’s signature sensitivity pairs seamlessly with Tiwa Savage’s dynamic presence, creating sweet vocal chemistry. With nods to Dr Sid’s Afropop classic of the same name, this single bridges past and future, showcasing two of Nigeria’s most soothing and expressive voices in perfect harmony.
By Cleon Alert September 2, 2025
Arrested Development returns with purpose in the music video for “My Job Ain’t Done” (MJAD) , a standout from their explosive new album Adult Contemporary Hip Hop . Produced by Speech, the track builds with layered horns over a tight loop, carrying a mood of focus and recommitment. Speech delivers clear, assertive verses that bridge personal mission and political context without overcomplication. As with their twelfth studio album the aforementioned Adult Contemporary Hip Hop , "My Job Ain't Done" proves the group remains energized, self-defined, and deeply rooted in grown, authentic Hip Hop.
By Cleon Alert September 2, 2025
Jamaican singer/songwriter Lila Ike embraces her sultry side on her new single "Romantic", which also features dancehall superstar Masicka. The track is from Lila's newest album (released in late August) Treasure Self Love , an 11-track opus that comes with guest appearances by the likes of Joey Bada$$, Protoje and H.E.R.
By Cleon Alert September 2, 2025
Popcaan returns with fire on his latest single “Bad Anywhere”, teaming up with dancehall legend Pinchers, producer Notnice, and artists Nitty Kutchie and C.P Ink. Released August 25, 2025, the track blends classic and modern dancehall energy, showcasing Popcaan’s versatility and the crew’s lyrical dominance. With pulsating beats and bold delivery, “Bad Anywhere” is already making waves across streaming platforms and live performances.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff August 29, 2025
Capleton teams up with Irie Ites Records and Evidence Music for the powerful new single and video, “No Sell Your Soul,” taken from the upcoming Hell A Go Pop Riddim album, set for release on September 21. Known as one of reggae and dancehall’s most influential voices, Capleton delivers a fiery message of integrity and strength. Irie Ites, internationally recognized since 2003, has collaborated with top Jamaican artists like Sizzla, Bounty Killer, Anthony B, Morgan Heritage, and veterans including John Holt and Max Romeo.