NEW SINGLES —————————
Longtime R&B/Soul singer Teedra Moses returns with her new single “Single,” a clear and confident declaration of her relationship standards. Produced by PJ Morton, the track blends a soft piano backdrop with live percussion and bass, mirroring her emotional clarity. Moses shared that the lyrics came instantly upon hearing the music, resulting in a song that captures her desire for security, passion, and a love worth giving everything to.
World-renowned Afrobeats producer and artist SPINALL keeps his momentum blazing with his new single “SHABA,” featuring Mavo and Deto Black, a sultry, jazz-infused Afrobeats track built for summer dance floors. Known for his genre-fluid sound, SPINALL blends rich instrumentation with smooth, seductive vocals to create a signature vibe. The release arrives alongside a visualizer, adding to the song’s steamy atmosphere. Following his major global rise, including a standout moment at Coachella 2024, SPINALL continues his hot streak as he gears up for his upcoming Motion Tour 2026 across North America.
NEW ALBUM
UK actress/vocalist Asha Banks teams up with Novo Amor and Lowswimmer for their collaborative EP Everything Is About You, a three-track project created during intimate sessions in the Welsh countryside. Featuring “Anymore,” “Lie To Me,” and “Hear Me Out,” the EP blends acoustic textures, lo-fi production, and emotional storytelling. Driven by creative chemistry and mutual admiration, the release captures a raw, poetic fusion of their distinct musical styles and shared artistic vision.
PREMIERING NOW
Following the viral success of “Tea Time,” Yung Miami raises the stakes with her new single and video “Spend Dat,” a bold, high-energy club anthem celebrating luxury and independence. The cinematic visual drops viewers into a flashy strip club world filled with fast money and nonstop motion, featuring cameos from NeNe Leakes, Trina, and Trick Daddy. The release marks another step toward her debut solo album.
Popcaan delivers a powerful message of resilience in “Life Still a Gwaan,” a raw yet uplifting track about perseverance, family, and staying grounded. Produced by Damage Musiq, the song is paired with a cinematic video directed by Shane Creative, capturing street life, celebrations, and reflective moments. The release highlights Popcaan’s signature authenticity while honoring those who continue pushing forward despite life’s challenges.
NOW PLAYING ———————————————————————
rjtheweirdo debuts with At Least She's Beautiful , a self-aware R&B project exploring toxic patterns, love, and accountability. Rooted in Atlanta’s confessional sound, the album captures a narrator confronting his own flaws while still repeating them, blending vulnerability with emotional tension. Released via EZMNY, the 12-track album features the likes of Ty Dolla $ign, Jaymin, and Nali, pairing layered production with introspective songwriting about growth, ego, and the struggle to change.
Grammy-nominated, six-time Juno winner Jessie Reyez returns with “N.Y.F.F.,” a raw and emotionally charged single that blends sharp lyricism with her signature grit and melody. The track calls out a dishonest ex with cutting honesty, showcasing Reyez’s unmatched vulnerability and emotional depth. "N.Y.F.F." follows her surprise EP $TILL PAID, released last month after her sold-out PAID IN MEMORIES world tour last year and further cements Jessie's place as one of pop and R&B’s most compelling voices.
British vocalist Natanya releases “DON’T ASK!,” a bold new single co-produced with Oscar Scheller. Blending pop with mid-2000s R&B flair, the track celebrates confidence and self-advocacy, driven by the idea that speaking up brings success. Originating from chords on a Yamaha e-piano, "DON"T ASK" evolved into a synth-rich anthem about empowerment, and follows Natanya's recent double EP Feline’s Return and its sequel, which showcased her evolving pop sound.
Yaya Bey delivers a deeply moving and intimate tribute with “Forty Days,” a standout track from her third albumFidelity. Dedicated to her late father,Grand Daddy I.U.of the Juice Crew, the song reflects on grief, spirituality, and the belief that it takes forty days for a loved one’s spirit to reach the ancestors. Over a dusty, soulful groove, Bey sings directly to him, asking for guidance, comfort, and love during this transitional period, while the official video deepens the emotional weight by capturing her at home surrounded by photographs of her late relatives. These personal visuals reinforce themes of remembrance and connection, turning the video into both a memorial and a celebration of family, as the refrain “and it don’t stop” underscores a bond that transcends death and a devotion that endures long after loss.
M.I.A. delivers a powerful, chant-driven statement with “JESUS,” featuring the Sunday Service Choir, from her seventh studio album M.I.7 . Co-produced with SWICK, the track fuses spiritual themes with global influences, drawing inspiration from the Book of Revelation. Backed by the uplifting choral presence of the choir founded by Ye, M.I.A. delivers assertive lyrics about faith, purpose, and resilience. The visually artistic video complements the song’s message, reflecting a renewed creative energy shaped by recordings across multiple continents.
Producer extraordinaire BNYX links up with Quavo for “HunchO STEP!,” an energetic, futuristic single from his upcoming album GENESIS FM . The track finds Quavo delivering flashy, Migos-inspired bars with nods to Fight Night and Walk It Like I Talk It. Following earlier releases with Kid Cudi, the single builds anticipation for BNYX’s debut album, set to drop May 15, as it gains traction on iHeartRadio’s Rap Rising playlist.
Tyla teams up with Swedish singer/songwriter Zara Larsson for their first collaboration, “She Did It Again,” a sleek R&B-pop track with a nod to Britney Spears' iconic 'Oops!... I Did It Again' opus from 2000. Serving as the second single from Tyla’s upcoming album A-Pop , the song features playful, confident lyrics as the duo trade verses over a nostalgic beat. Paired with a desert-and-waterfall visual, the release arrives as Larsson continues her Midnight Sun tour and recent remix success.
Snoop Dogg keeps his momentum going with 10 Til’ Midnight , his 22nd album and fourth under Death Row Records since acquiring it. The 14-track project leans into classic G-funk, blending nostalgic West Coast vibes with polished production from names like Pharrell Williams and Swizz Beatz. Featuring collaborations with artists like October London and Trinidad James, the album feels like a confident return to form. Rather than chasing trends, Snoop embraces his legacy, delivering the familiar sound fans expect while reinforcing his lasting influence in hip-hop.
Jorja Smith delivers a smooth, late-night vibe with “Price of It All,” a standout from the Bait soundtrack. The track carries a laid-back, easygoing feel, perfect for unwinding with a glass of wine, even if it doesn’t fully push boundaries. Its subtle charm leans more into mood than standout moments. Directed by KC Locke, the cinematic visual adds depth, placing Smith in stylized spy and assassin scenarios, with action-driven scenes that reflect the series’ blend of thriller, drama, and dark humor.
Rising indie vocalist Avara’s “Levitate” music video, directed and produced by Vinaini Jayasinghe, brings a moody elegance to her R&B and contemporary soul sound. The Indian-American artist, born in NYC, delivers a sultry performance while dressed as a ballerina, gracefully spinning and executing pole acrobatics in a dark, airy setting while blending her classical dance training. Paired with lyrics about independence and self-worth, Avara’s hypnotic movements mirror her message of emotional detachment, creating a visually captivating and empowering experience that lingers well beyond the final note.
When Usher speaks on legacy, it carries weight. After all, if anyone knows anything about legacy it's Usher, a man who since he released his self-titled debut album at the age of 15 in 1994, has gone on to win 8 Grammy's while becoming one the world's most recognized contemporary R&B singers and pop musicians. So when Usher speaks, people listen, which makes his recent defense of former mentor Sean "P. Diddy" Combs, somewhat disturbing Indeed, in an interview last week with Forbes , talking about his own legacy as a an artist, businessman, and father, Usher spoke out in defense of the recently convicted of two counts of transportation of prostitution Combs. Describing for former head of Bad Boy Records as “misrepresented” and worthy of recognition, comments that reflected a deeply personal truth rooted in mentorship and early career influence. As for Usher, Diddy is not just a headline or a conviction; but a formative figure, a teacher during a critical moment in both his life and career. A perspective that's certainly valid as personal experience often complicates public narratives, especially when it comes to icons who helped shape culture and opportunity for others.
When Alicia Keys released “Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)” from her 2009 album The Element of Freedom, she delivered one of the most emotionally raw moments of her career. The slow-burning R&B ballad (featuring uncredited background vocals from Drake) captured the tension between love and hesitation, showcasing Keys’ softer, more vulnerable side over haunting piano-driven production. Critics quickly embraced the track as a standout, praising its sensual tone and introspective lyrics. Written by Keys alongside Drake (Aubrey Graham) and longtime collaborators, the song blended delicate melodies with a quiet intensity that resonated deeply with listeners. Its honest portrayal of emotional risk helped elevate it beyond a typical love song, cementing its reputation as one of the album’s defining records. “Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)” went on to dominate the charts, spending an impressive twelve consecutive weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart—making it the longest-running R&B No. 1 of 2010. It also topped the Adult R&B chart and reached No. 21 on the Hot 100, becoming the most successful single from the album and a lasting fan favorite in Keys’ catalog.
Jack Harlow returns with his fourth album Monica, a project that marks a total departure from the Kentucky-bred rapper’s usual blend of witty bars, introspection, and playful bravado. Best known for rap hits like “Whats Poppin,” “First Class,” and “Loving on Me,” here we find Harlow shifting gears completely for R&B, while aiming for a more vulnerable and emotionally transparent approach centered on past (and present?) relationships. And while the stylistic pivot is ambitious, it has also drawn criticism, with some listeners and critics questioning both its authenticity and creative direction. At just nine tracks, Monica plays like a concise but uneven experiment that often feels underdeveloped as well. A recurring issue is its lack of depth (both lyrically and emotionally) as many moments come across as forced rather than genuine. The production, though smooth and easy to digest, leans toward safe, ambient grooves that feel more like background music for the local mall than fully realized compositions, lacking the dynamism needed to elevate the project beyond surface-level listening. Tracks like “Lonesome,” “My Winter,” and “Move Along” show flashes of relatability, touching on themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and growth, but they ultimately blur together due to repetitive execution. The opening track on Monica (a title that Harlow himself said recently wasn't necessarily a real person as opposed to a name he 'loved' simply due to its sound), “Trade Places,” offers a polished, groove-driven sound, yet feels overly calculated in its attempt to channel neo-soul influences. The track “All My Friends” leans on a corny theme of falling in love too deeply, paired with a melodic yet unruffled hook that should have been left on the cutting room floor. Meanwhile, songs like “Say Hello” and “Prague” hint at greater range, but aren’t strong enough to carry the album’s overall weight. In the end, Monica is an easy listen that struggles to leave a lasting impression, falling short in originality, variety, and the emotional authenticity it aims to deliver. Standout Tracks: "Trade Places", "Say Hello", "Living Alone" Rating: 5/10 - Simon P Williams
SEARCH
The legendary Oakland collective Hieroglyphics was officially inducted into the National Hip Hop Museum Hall of Fame yesterday in Washington, DC, marking a major milestone for one of underground rap’s most influential crews. Founded by Del the Funky Homosapien, the group includes key figures such as Casual, Pep Love, and the members of Souls of Mischief—Phesto, A-Plus, Opio, and Tajai—along with DJ DJ Toure and producer Domino. Known for their independence and loyal fanbase, the crew built their legacy through grassroots promotion, early internet engagement, and their own “Hierocasts.” At the center of Hieroglyphics’ identity is their unmistakable three-eyed face logo, a symbol that has become synonymous with underground hip-hop culture. Created by Del, the design is based on the Mayan numeral for eight and reflects both artistic influence and deeper consciousness (a “third eye” perspective that aligns with the group’s lyrical themes. Over the years, the logo has appeared across album covers, merchandise, and streetwear, growing into a cult emblem recognized far beyond their core fanbase. Del once noted his surprise at its reach, recalling sightings of the symbol in comics, music videos, and even tattoos worn by devoted fans. The Hall of Fame induction not only honors Hieroglyphics’ music (from albums like 3rd Eye Vision and Full Circle) but also celebrates the cultural power of their branding and message. In an era where major label backing often dictated success, the crew carved out their own lane, proving that authenticity and creative control could build a lasting movement. With their logo now cemented as one of hip-hop’s most enduring symbols, Hieroglyphics’ induction serves as recognition of both their artistic contributions and their influence on independent rap culture.
OUTSIDE THE STUDIO
THE DROP ZONE ———————————————————————
Veteran Chi-town singer Dave Hollister makes a long-awaited return with “Thought You Knew,” his first single in a decade. Released via Death Row Records and Gamma, the track is produced by Soopafly and Snoop Dogg. The heartfelt song reassures a partner that love remains strong, marking a smooth and soulful comeback for the R&B veteran.
Rising R&B singer Isaia Huron delivers one of the most unpredictable and entertaining moments on his album Mr. Lovebomb with the visual for “propane.” The track follows a tense yet humorous relationship clash, where insecurity and misunderstanding collide over social media and trust. As emotions escalate, Huron’s smooth vocals carry a steady, engaging vibe before flipping into a clever, self-aware twist. With strong storytelling and polished production, “propane” highlights his remarkable talent and connects effortlessly with listeners.
Multi-talented R&B-inspired Urban Electro Pop trio SIMIEN teams up with Akon for “Sugar,” a dreamy pop-R&B single released via Konvict Kulture. Produced by Akon as well, the track blends warm basslines and airy melodies with SIMIEN’s signature harmonies, exploring romance and devotion. The Victorian-inspired video, set at a lavish masquerade ball, enhances its emotional pull, making “Sugar” a standout this Spring '26.
Kehlani has teamed up with Missy Elliott for her new single “Back and Forth,” a bold, R&B-leaning anthem about independence. The track arrives ahead of her self-titled fifth album, Kehlan i, due April 24 via Atlantic Records. Announced on Instagram, the project coincides with Kehlani's 31st birthday and marks a fresh chapter following her 2024 album Crash .
Tink returns with F**k, Marry, Kill , a bold 15-track R&B project that dives into the messy gray areas of love, desire, and emotional conflict. Blending honesty with intensity, the album captures the push and pull of complicated relationships, a tone first introduced on her single “Overrated.” Featuring appearances from Bryson Tiller, G Herbo, Rob49, and Tee Grizzley, Tink delivers with confidence and clarity. Both reflective and unapologetic, the album arrives right on time, offering a soundtrack for the highs and lows of love during the upcoming warmer months.
Rising R&B singer Aaron Page returns with his new single “Waiting Room,” released via AWAL. Known for his hands-on, multi-instrumentalist approach, he crafts emotionally grounded music rooted in real experiences. The track explores the tension between temptation and loyalty, set against a late-night R&B backdrop with smooth, moody production. Following recent releases like “Lord Knows” and “Pretty Girls Like R&B,” the song continues his growing momentum, highlighting his ability to blend honesty, confidence, and relatable storytelling within a fresh wave of modern R&B.
British-Canadian singer and songwriter Essosa delivers playful honesty on her single “He’s Not All That,” pairing airy production with soft vocals and shimmering R&B textures. Inspired by a situationship gone wrong, the track captures the shift from romantic vulnerability to self-aware clarity. Born from a candid studio conversation about her dating life, the song reflects her realization that the person she once idealized wasn’t worth the energy. Blending humor with truth, Essosa taps into a relatable experience, highlighting the empowering moment of recognizing self-worth and moving on.
RAYE returns with her sophomore album THIS MUSIC MAY CONTAIN HOPE ., released independently via Human Re Sources. The 17-track, 73-minute project is a cinematic, genre-blending journey through heartbreak, introspection, and resilience. Opening with a reflective meditation on shared human experience, the album unfolds across seasonal themes, beginning in autumn. RAYE experiments with orchestral, jazz, rap, and pop influences, using each shift in sound to mirror emotional highs and lows, ultimately showcasing her bold artistry and storytelling depth.
DC-to-London artist Kelela returns with her new single and video “idea 1,” marking her first release since 2025’s live album In The Blue Light and signaling a new artistic chapter. Kelela describes the song as a reflection on the emotional burden of witnessing and speaking truth in a world that feels chaotic, particularly from the perspective of Black women. Produced by Oscar Scheller, the track blends shoegaze textures with her signature experimental R&B and electronic sound. Directed by Erik Saltzman and Cameron Tidball-Sciullo, the video portrays collapse, rebirth, and emotional renewal.