NEW SINGLES —————————
Bronx, NY, rapper DreamDoll steps into her latest era with “OKAY,” a bold new single produced by Kurvo, the track rides a dark piano loop and boomin 808s as the femcee delivers confident bars about money, competition, and staying untouchable. Opening with a charged voice note, “OKAY” quickly becomes a taunting refrain, with DreamDoll making it clear she is fully in control and ready to challenge anyone.
Rising singer-songwriter Jalisa Rey makes a confident statement with “Look Where I’m At,” a fall-ready bop released October 2. Fueled by Jersey Club-inspired production from Pagani and featuring LA writer/producer Los from Hitbangaz, the track finds Rey embracing ambition, independence, and success while refusing to look back. The LA Weekly Artist of the Week alum delivers an unapologetic message about chasing her goals and becoming the artist she knows she is destined to be.
NEW ALBUM
After more than four decades as one half of Salt-N-Pepa, Grammy Award winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Cheryl “Salt” James steps into her solo spotlight with Salty N Lit, released through Salt Songs, Inc. The 15-track album blends faith, personal truth, and creative freedom, drawing its title from Matthew 5:13. Featuring guest appearances from Shanice, Dee-1, Erica Campbell, Finn Matthews, Elijah Blake, and Chuck D, the project is introduced by singles including “Chosen,” “Kings & Queens,” “Diamonds In Light,” and “Overcomers,” celebrating self-worth, Black culture, resilience, and purpose.
PREMIERING NOW
Kirk Franklin teams with GloRilla on “This Time,” the high-energy lead single from his upcoming 14th solo album, I Am What I Am, due October 30 via Uptown Records. The official video captures the track’s fusion of gospel and Southern trap, powered by joyous horns, handclaps, and a massive choir. Interpolating Mandrill’s “Children of the Sun,” Franklin brings soulful intensity while GloRilla delivers upbeat bars and sharp wordplay, showcasing her versatility over the uplifting gospel backdrop.
GRAMMY Award-winning R&B singer Lucky Daye unveils the official video for “Talk To Me,” the latest single from his upcoming fifth album, ALOUD!, due October 16 via Warner Records. Co-written with Frank Brim and Dimitri McDowell, the track pairs psychedelic guitar, ’80s-inspired percussion, and a hypnotic groove with Daye’s emotional plea to reconnect with an estranged lover. As communication breaks down, his voicemail becomes a final attempt to save a relationship before the love runs out.
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 ———————————————————————
UK singer-songwriter Rachel Chinouriri offers a third preview of her highly anticipated sophomore album with “Broken Chair,” a playful, emotional and catchy indie-pop track about navigating her mid-twenties. Written in Los Angeles, the song transforms a night out into a moment of self-reflection, exploring drinking, partying and self-worth. Chinouriri co-wrote the track with singer/songwriter/producer Lucy Dacus, who encouraged her to embrace who she is and recognize that she is enough exactly as she is.
Nigerian gospel minister Mercy Chinwo delivers an energetic anthem of praise and thanksgiving with “My God" (also known as “My God, You Are Good"). Released September 25, the vibrant single blends joyful African rhythms with a heartfelt message of gratitude and faith. Written and composed by Chinwo, the song celebrates God’s faithfulness and serves as a personal testimony of answered prayers. With its uplifting energy and powerful declaration of devotion, “My God” invites listeners to celebrate God’s goodness.
Veteran R&B/Soul singer PJ Morton revisits the complicated emotions of a relationship on “Used To Be,” a standout from his 2026 double album, Saturday Night / Sunday Morning. The soulful track looks back at a love that changed after outside opinions and doubt began creeping in, with Morton longing to rewind the clock and recapture what once was. The official visualizer and audio complement the reflective song, adding a creative visual layer to its nostalgic, relationship-centered message.
Canadian pop/R&B singer Alessia Cara celebrates the five-year anniversary of her critically acclaimed third album, In the Meantime, with the new video for “Apartment Song.” A bouncy ode to single life and solitude, the track captures the comfort and isolation Cara experienced after moving into a new apartment during the pandemic. Originally released in September 2021, the fan favorite gets a playful, full-circle visual co-directed and co-edited by Cara and Dario, bringing renewed energy to the beloved track.
Grammy-award winning R&B, jazz, neo-soul and gospel singer-songwriter Lalah Hathaway returns with Made in Chicago, her ninth studio album and a deeply personal tribute to the city that shaped her. Released on what would have been her father Donny Hathaway’s 81st birthday, the nine-track collection draws inspiration from childhood memories, Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan. Made with longtime collaborator Phil Beaudreau, the album blends warm and soulful vocals, creating a lush sound that honors Hathaway’s past while pushing her artistry forward.
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.
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.
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.
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’re taking it back to The Deele’s timeless R&B ballad “Two Occasions.” Written by Babyface, Darnell Bristol and Sid Johnson and produced by Babyface and L.A. Reid, the song appeared on The Deele’s 1987 album Eyes of a Stranger . Released as the album’s second single in December 1987, the smooth quiet-storm classic featured alternating lead vocals from Babyface, Bristol and Carlos “Satin” Greene. “Two Occasions” became The Deele’s defining hit, reaching No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 4 on the Hot Black Singles chart and No. 21 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Interestingly, Babyface ended up singing the song’s bridge almost by accident after another group member left the studio early to attend a Halloween party in Cincinnati. The song later earned a BMI Pop Award in 1989. The official video perfectly captures the sophisticated late-’80s R&B aesthetic, with The Deele performing in an elegant courtyard surrounded by white arches while dressed in sharp black suits and sunglasses. A solo dancer adds another visual touch to the romantic presentation. The song’s influence continued decades later, with Mariah Carey referencing and sampling it for the remix of “We Belong Together,” while Next also sampled it for “I Still Love You.” Babyface and members of The Deele have since reunited to perform the beloved classic live.
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 ———————————————————————
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.