NEW SINGLES —————————
Dallas rapper Dolly Babe has given her viral hit “Pink Blush” a major boost with a remix featuring Megan Thee Stallion. Released September 24, through 300 Entertainment, “Pink Blush (Remix)” pairs two rising Southern hip-hop voices on an energetic, confident track. The original single gained widespread attention over the summer, earning recognition from major stars including Madonna and Rihanna. Megan’s appearance adds fresh momentum to Dolly Babe’s breakout song and could help expand its chart reach.
Shenseea trades her signature confidence and swagger for raw honesty on “Vulnerability,” her most personal record to date. The Jamaican dancehall star opens up about growing up without knowing her father, the pain of losing her mother, and past relationships that left emotional scars and made finding love difficult. Despite its heavy themes, the track (co-produced by Kyle Evans and Jo Caleb) carries a groovy, therapeutic feel, driven by soft percussion and rhythm-heavy electronic instrumentation. The result is an emotionally revealing song that maintains enough energy to become another dancehall favorite.
NEW ALBUM
Stevie Wonder is celebrating the 50th anniversary of his landmark 1976 album Songs in the Key of Life with Songs in the Key of Life 50: The EP, featuring four previously unreleased recordings. Wonder selected “It’s Easier,” “My Life Story of Love,” “I Can See the Sun in Late December,” and “I’m Into Livin’” from the album’s extensive sessions. Wonder wrote and produced the songs, with Susaye Greene co-writing “My Life Story of Love.” Original album engineers John Fischbach and Gary O Adante returned to mix the recordings.
PREMIERING NOW
Singer, songwriter and producer John Legend has released the music video for “Fireflies,” a track from his upcoming album Muse, due October 23. Written with and featuring Pharrell Williams, the song explores inequality, loss and resilience. Directed by Paul Hunter, the cinematic video pairs Legend’s piano performance with the Hollywood Cinematic Orchestra and intimate scenes depicting life in a housing project. “Fireflies” follows the album’s lead single “Daylight,” with Williams producing and co-writing the full project.
London R&B artist Nippa has released the official video for “Bittersweet,” a standout track from his new EP, Homegrown. Released September 25, the song blends contemporary R&B with high-energy house production from Grammy-winning producer Kaytranada and Rance1500. The accompanying visual has attracted attention for its creative direction, nightlife seduction and inventive practical effects, showcasing a distinctive approach that relies on in-camera techniques rather than digital plugins.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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Savannah James and longtime friend and business partner April McDaniel may be building businesses together, but they don’t necessarily travel the same way. During an episode of Mental Wealth, the women discussed their different financial lifestyles, including how James flies first class while McDaniel typically chooses a more budget-conscious option. McDaniel recalled an instance when she left her business-class seat to spend time with James in first class, a moment that later drew attention online. The friends acknowledged that their financial circumstances are different, but said it hasn’t created tension in their relationship or business partnership. McDaniel, founder of Crown and Conquer and co-founder of Everybody’s Crazy, said social media creates misconceptions about wealth. The pair have been friends for 15 years and now operate ventures under their Signed holding company.
YouTuber Adam22 has accused rapper and boxer Chrisean Rock of drinking alcohol and using drugs while pregnant with her son, Chrisean Jr., whom she shares with Blueface. During a recent livestream, Adam questioned Rock’s parenting and claimed, without confirmation, that Junior may have fetal alcohol syndrome. Rock denied the allegations and threatened to sue Adam for slander. Adam said he would welcome a lawsuit, claiming it would allow him to seek her medical records and messages related to her pregnancy during discovery. Blueface has also previously accused Rock of substance use while pregnant. Rock maintains that Junior has never been diagnosed with cognitive or physical disabilities. During an August appearance on The Jason Lee Show, she said he receives physical therapy and is developing normally.
Jasmine Guy is pushing back against online criticism of her appearance following her return as Whitley Gilbert in Netflix’s A Different World revival. Guy reunited with Kadeem Hardison, Darryl M. Bell and Cree Summer, delighting longtime fans, while others compared her current appearance with her younger self from the original series. In a Sept. 27 Instagram post, the 64-year-old actor addressed the scrutiny, saying the internet can be harsh toward women as they age. Guy acknowledged that growing older brings changes but emphasized that beauty, style and happiness have no expiration date. She encouraged people to stop judging themselves and others and instead focus on love, creating memories and enjoying life. Fans and celebrity friends, including Tina Knowles and Tatyana Ali, responded with messages praising Guy’s beauty and grace.
Jamaican dancehall star Shenseea has surpassed 1.5 billion views on YouTube, becoming the first Jamaican female artist to reach the milestone just days before her 30th birthday. Her channel has benefited from hits including “Hit & Run” with Masicka, which has more than 201 million views, “Lighter” with Tarrus Riley at over 137 million, and “Blessed” featuring Tyga with more than 75 million. Her breakthrough came in 2016 with “Loodi” featuring Vybz Kartel, which has exceeded 53 million views. Other popular releases include “Rebel,” “The Side Chick Song,” “Love I Got for U” and “Waistline.” Her broader YouTube impact extends beyond her own channel, including Moliy’s “Shake It to the Max (Fly)” remix featuring Shenseea and Skillibeng, which has surpassed 312 million views.
NOW PLAYING ———————————————————————
British-Nigerian singer-songwriter Ebubé introduces “Canary,” a new promotional single exploring unconditional love, companionship and the peace found in a special relationship. Written with Chase Mac and produced by Ashton Sellars, the track captures the feeling of escaping life’s distractions while traveling the world with someone special, finding comfort simply in their voice. Signed to Chosen Music, Ebubé has yet to announce plans for an album or EP.
Following a brief hiatus, Indiana-bred R&B singer-songwriter Maeta returns with “Decimate,” a sultry and emotionally charged single released via Human Re Sources. Produced by Livvi Franc, with co-production from Dante Jones and Caleb Contreras, the single is driven by silky vocals and an intimate, late-night atmosphere. The track explores the tension between attraction and restraint as Maeta gives in to desire. Known for past singles like “Through The Night” and collaborations with SZA, Kehlani and KAYTRANADA, with "Decimate" Maeta begins a confident new chapter on her own terms.
Amaria brings a nostalgic touch to contemporary R&B with “What’s It Gonna Take?,” blending the warmth of late-’80s and early-’90s soul with a modern sound. The Jamaican-Guyanese singer-songwriter co-directed the accompanying visual with Loïc Wendling, capturing the song’s intimate mood. Lyrically, Amaria pleads with a love interest to let down his guard, questioning what it will take to call him “baby” while navigating attraction, vulnerability and emotional uncertainty.
Miami singer, songwriter, rapper and dancer DaniLeigh teams with Nigerian rap icon Olamide on “Goosebumps,” an Afro-Pop collaboration released. The official video delivers a faith-inspired visual with DaniLeigh performing intricate choreography inside a church. The singer describes the song as deeply personal and spiritual, reflecting how she has experienced God’s love, guidance and protection during difficult moments. “Goosebumps” leads to her upcoming project, With Love, From Dani , due October 2.
Leon Bridges returns with Happiness Anytime , his fifth studio album, released via Columbia Records. Moving away from the slower, introspective mood of his previous album Leon , the 12-track set is an upbeat, vibrant invitation to hit the dancefloor. The album features just one guest appearance, British singer-songwriter Lydia Kitto on “All Day, All Night" but is moving nonetheless. From the Afrobeat-infused soul of silky, funky opener “Light The Way” to the Paul Simon-inspired “Tears of Joy” and the seductive, slow-burning “Your Love Is Electric,” Bridges explores fresh grooves while keeping his soulful voice front and center.
Buffalo-born, Atlanta-based rapper Che Noir has released “Urban Essence,” the first single from her upcoming album It Takes A Village , due October 23. Produced by Mobb Deep’s Havoc and featuring Hawaiian emcee/producer/singer The Uce, the track connects generations of raw New York hip-hop with a verbal assault from Che Noir that's highly personal and also reflective of her growth, parenthood, and life experiences while showcasing a new perspective on her artistry.
Queens, NY-born R&B singer-songwriter Mai Anna unveils “Chameleon,” a playful, experimental track about shedding expectations and reconnecting with herself. Created in Joshua Tree with longtime collaborator and producer Solomon Fox, the song blends an elastic, jazz-inflected bassline with Mai Anna’s rich vocals, moving between silky R&B runs and percussive phrasing. “Chameleon” offers another glimpse into the creative range of her forthcoming debut album, Sleepy Eyes .
Multi Platinum Hip-Hop star DDG releases HIT-A-THON , a 15-track album created entirely during his viral seven-day, 24/7 livestream. Released via Epic Records, the project features Lil Yachty, 42 Dugg, Pluto, Real Boston Richey, Bunna B, ian, Domani, and others. Building on his previous livestream’s success, DDG transformed an Atlanta mansion into a creative hub filled with surprise collaborations, viral moments, and unscripted highlights. The project captures the spontaneity and energy that made the livestream a cultural moment.
Ibeyi, the French-Cuban twin sisters Lisa-Kaindé and Naomi Diaz, unleash their powerful energy in the official video for “Moshpit,” from their album Offering. Directed and produced by Corry Van Rhijn and Roman Pichon Herrera, the visual mirrors the song’s heavy, industrial electronic sound. Pounding 808s, synth-driven production, layered harmonies and choral refrains create an intense backdrop as the sisters deliver fierce vocals celebrating transformation, confidence and elemental strength.
Alabama-bred rapper/singer CHIKA unveils the official music video for “Who Shines For The Sun,” released earlier this month, the visual brings her introspective storytelling to life. Originally released as a single in July, the Grammy-nominated artist delivers an emotionally charged track that serves as a “warm hug” for those who constantly pour their energy into caring for others. The song’s reflective production creates space for personal interpretation, while the visual storytelling deepens its comforting and heartfelt message.
Critique Pitchfork's review of Chris Brown's BROWN album. Examine issues of bias & journalistic malpractice in music criticism.
For this week’s Throwback Thursday, we revisit Melanie Fiona’s “Give It to Me Right,” the breakthrough single that introduced the Canadian R&B singer to a wider audience. Released in 2009 as the lead single from her debut album, The Bridge, the track was written and produced by Andrea Martin and Rod Argent. Fiona’s smooth vocals and the song’s soulful production helped establish her as a fresh voice in contemporary R&B. “Give It to Me Right” also stood out for its clever connection to classic rock, sampling The Zombies’ 1968 hit “Time of the Season.” The familiar sample is woven into the track’s modern R&B framework, giving the song a distinctive sound that bridges generations. Sent to radio on February 28, 2009, the single became an early career milestone for Fiona and helped set the stage for the release of The Bridge later that year. The song performed well internationally, peaking at No. 20 on the Canadian Hot 100 and No. 41 on the UK Singles Chart. Its accompanying music video also earned recognition, ranking No. 74 on BET’s Notarized: Top 100 Videos of 2009. For Fiona, “Give It to Me Right” marked the beginning of a new chapter after earlier work with the Canadian R&B trio X-Quisite and the duo Renaissance, establishing her as a solo artist to watch.
Last month, North Carolina rapper Rapsody delivered her fifth album, the eloquently titled God Gotta Afro & Gold Hoops, a metaphor for the project’s central themes of spirituality, race, and romantic escapades. From the brash lyrics and unabashed expressions of affection on “Black Love” to the soothing sounds of adoration on “Apple Sauce,” Rapsody explores love and identity with both confidence and vulnerability. Across 15 tracks, the album features guest appearances ranging from Clipse’s Malice to D12 rapper Mr. Porter, who appears on three songs and produced a significant portion of the project, as well as funk pioneer George Clinton. The album also gives Rapsody room to showcase her versatility, blending her lyrical prowess with moments of singing, melody, and emotional nuance. Sonically diverse, God Gotta Afro & Gold Hoops moves effortlessly between hard breakbeats, heavy drum patterns, soulful grooves, and jazzy backdrops. On the introspective “Pretty Birds,” Rapsody asks, “Tell me about heaven,” setting the tone for one of the album’s more reflective moments. Other standouts include the groove-driven “Joyful,” where she wonders what happened to dancing, and “Apple Sauce,” which explores vulnerability, melody, and the excitement of a crush while sampling D’Angelo’s “One Mo’ Gin” and drawing on African spiritual themes. “OMG! (Love To Sun Ra)” and “Pretty Bird / Way R U” further demonstrate Rapsody’s ability to journey into both joyous and poignant emotional territory. Deeply entrenched in truth-telling, healing, odes to Black excellence, and pure, unadulterated hip-hop, God Gotta Afro & Gold Hoops (which was inspired by Rapsody's travel to Ghana and South Africa and recorded across sessions in Africa and Detroit) finds Rapsody embracing every facet of her artistry. It’s a layered, profound, and accessible album that balances introspection with celebration while demonstrating just how much emotional and sonic territory she can cover. Favorite Tracks: "OMG! (Love To Sun Ra)", "Free Ya Mind", "Apple Sauce" & "God Gotta Afro" Rating: 9/10
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OUTSIDE THE STUDIO
The Broadway-bound musical adaptation of Beat Stree t, based on the groundbreaking 1984 film, has assembled its principal creative team. The Wiz director Schele Williams will helm the production, while Hell’s Kitchen writer Kristoffer Diaz will write the book. Grammy-winning music supervisor Jason Michael Webb joins the team as music supervisor, arranger and orchestrator, alongside previously announced executive producer and artist Nas. Nas is creating new material for the stage production and expanding the original film’s influential soundtrack. Last month, Nas, Williams, Diaz and Webb collaborated during a 29-hour workshop to develop the musical adaptation. Additional details about casting and the production schedule are expected to be announced in the coming months.
Nigerian singer Sarah Aderibigbe, better known as Ayra Starr, has given fans their first glimpse of her Hollywood acting debut in Children of Blood and Bone . Director Gina Prince-Bythewood shared a behind-the-scenes teaser for the highly anticipated fantasy film on Instagram Monday, offering a look at the production while announcing that the official trailer would be released Tuesday. Prince-Bythewood also revealed that the film is scheduled to arrive in theaters January 15. Although Ayra Starr appears only briefly in the teaser, the footage marks the first visual look at the Grammy-nominated singer portraying a fictional character on screen. The teaser is soundtracked by Tems’ hit single “Me & U,” adding another Nigerian connection to the Paramount Pictures production. The film is based on Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling fantasy novel and represents Ayra Starr’s first time playing a fictional character in a major film.
A Bel-Air spinoff centered on Hilary Banks is in development at Peacock, with Coco Jones set to reprise her role from the hit drama series. Titled Hilary , the potential spinoff comes from writer-producer Tracy Oliver, co-writer of Girls Trip and Little . If ordered to series, the project would make Bel-Air Peacock’s first scripted original to receive a spinoff. Jones portrayed Hilary, Will Smith’s cousin, throughout all four seasons of Bel-Air, a dramatic reimagining of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air . The series followed Will Smith’s transition from West Philadelphia to his family’s affluent Bel-Air home, becoming a breakout hit for the streaming service.
Snoop Dogg’s upcoming biopic Snoop has found its Notorious B.I.G., with SwayvoTwain, born Michael D’Angelo Archer II, set to portray the late Brooklyn rap icon. SwayvoTwain is the 29-year-old son of late R&B stars D’Angelo and Angie Stone. He confirmed his involvement on Instagram Tuesday, September 8, following an initial report by Variety. The Universal Pictures film is scheduled to arrive in U.S. theaters on August 6, 2027. Directed by Hustle & Flow filmmaker Craig Brewer, Snoop is being produced by Brian Grazer alongside Snoop Dogg. The casting of Biggie adds another significant chapter to a film centered on the West Coast rapper’s rise to prominence. Although Snoop and Biggie were associated with opposite sides of hip-hop’s East Coast-West Coast rivalry, the two artists shared a mutual respect and were friendly during the mid-1990s.
THE DROP ZONE ———————————————————————
Brooklyn, NY-based artist Jourden delivers her new seven-track EP A Tree Grows In Brooklyn , blending hip-hop, neo-soul, alternative hip-hop and Caribbean rhythms influenced by her Bajan and Trinidadian heritage. With a title inspired by Betty Smith’s classic novel, the project explores growth and self-discovery in challenging environments while reflecting Brooklyn’s diverse identity through its sounds and collaborations. One of its most personal tracks, “Cross Colors,” explores grief, identity and shared experiences, underscoring Jourden’s desire to embrace her complexities and evolution.
Rising R&B soul singer BLKPRL returns with “PLEASE,” featuring rapper Really Jaewon (the son of rapper Jadakiss). Produced by BLKPRL and ClickNPress, the smooth mid-tempo track blends soulful R&B with Hip-Hop as BLKPRL explores the vulnerability of opening his heart again after experiencing heartbreak. Centered on the plea, “Please don’t break my heart,” the song captures the excitement and uncertainty of new love while confronting the risks of trust, commitment, and emotional connection.
Atlanta artist Landstrip Chip returns with “Sin For Me,” a temptation-filled collaboration with Grammy-winning rapper Pusha T. Produced by OG Parker, Aye YB and T-WiLL, the track blends a dark, restrained beat, deep bass and crisp percussion with Chip’s smooth, melodic delivery, questioning the depth of devotion. Pusha T brings a colder, calculating presence, using sharp flows and vivid luxury imagery to explore wealth, status and the risks that accompany them.
New Jersey-bred R&B singer/songwriter TheARTI$t gets vulnerable on “Rain,” a reflective R&B slow-burn about wanting back what she may have helped lose. Over layered harmonies and expressive vocal arrangements, she confronts her role in a fractured relationship without disguising the fact that the feelings remain. Released following her DND EP and while supporting Kehlani’s THE KEHLANI WORLD TOUR, “Rain” turns regret into an intimate plea for another chance, capturing the uneasy space between accountability, heartbreak, and hope.
LA R&B newcomer Autumn Paige (now working with Eric Benét’s JBR Creative Group) trades overthinking for open skies on “Sun Drunk,” a breezy, slow-burning single that finds beauty in simply being present. Wrapped in warm production, infectious melodies, and Paige’s rich, intimate vocals, the track feels like a musical exhale—carefree, grateful, and unapologetically content. Following her 2025 debut EP Down the Rabbit Hole, Paige steps into a warmer, more melodic era, revealing a softer confidence and a renewed appreciation for life’s uncomplicated pleasures.
Meshell Ndegeocello has released “With God on Our Side,” the captivating final single from her Blue Note album Synonym. Featuring dual guest vocals from Bill Callahan and mandolinist Chris Thile, the track reconceptualizes Bob Dylan’s folk classic to match its aggressive lyrics with a deeply nuanced arrangement. Ndegeocello praises Callahan’s enchanting voice alongside Thile’s grounded earthiness. Directed by Damani Baker, the accompanying official video features the trio performing together on a simple park bench.
Milwaukee rapper/singer Lakeyah returns with MOTION PACK, a four-track EP marking another chapter in her independent run. The project showcases her confidence, ambition, and determination through tracks including “MS. ROBIN$ON,” “I’M KNOWIN’” featuring KenTheMan, “BREAK ’EM,” and “OLD SKOOL” featuring Bankroll Ni. Throughout the EP, Lakeyah celebrates independence, money, and personal success while delivering sharp bars and self-assured energy. MOTION PACK further establishes her evolving sound and fearless approach as she continues moving forward on her own terms.
Jhené Aiko returns to her latest album, Westside Whimsy , with the Topshelf Junior-directed music video for “Nothing Nice to Say.” The soulful visual opens with Aiko turning on a radio before transitioning to an empty room where she delivers the song with effortless grace. Her spiritually soothing lyrics take center stage, creating an intimate atmosphere that complements the song’s reflective themes. Following the visual for “Ark to Agartha,” the video continues expanding the world surrounding Westside Whimsy .
Raveena Aurora opens a deeply personal chapter with “Blissed Out,” her first release of 2026 and a soulful reflection on grief, healing and the loss of her mother. Blending contemporary R&B, soul, jazz and Indian-influenced instrumentation, the song gradually moves from sorrow toward a sense of warmth and euphoria. Directed by Grant Spanier, the accompanying video combines intimate archival family footage with scenes of Raveena surrounded by nature, capturing the healing power of memory and the enduring connection between mother and daughter.