NEW SINGLES —————————
Marking the recent 10th anniversary of his passing, Prince is honored with the release of an unheard version of “With This Tear.” Shared via his official YouTube channel, the track is part of a planned rollout of 10 previously unreleased songs this year. Recorded at Paisley Park in November 1991, the tender, piano-driven ballad features Prince performing every instrument. Newly mixed and mastered by Grammy-nominated producer Chris James, the release highlights the icon’s enduring artistry and legacy.
Toronto-based R&B alternative singer and songwriter Elyssa Plaza returns with her new single “Charm,” a smooth yet emotionally charged track that confronts heartache and the frustration of dealing with someone who plays games with your heart. Blending traditional R&B with contemporary production, the song features mellow beats, lush instrumentation, and her expressive vocals. Produced by Troy Jahara and Chris Chand, “Charm” highlights Elyssa’s ability to turn vulnerability into a captivating, modern sound.
NEW ALBUM
Nigerian rapper, singer, and songwriter Ice Prince makes a compelling return with Testimony of Grace, a project that underscores his growth, resilience, and lasting impact in African hip-hop. Known for his smooth delivery and bar-heavy style, he reaffirms his place in the game while embracing evolution. Featuring artists like Niniola, Skiibii, Ria Sean, Sinzu, and Medikal, the album blends Afrobeats, rap, and contemporary sounds. Reflective yet forward-looking, it mirrors his personal journey, faith, and gratitude.
PREMIERING NOW
In preparation for their debut album Legacy (set for release on August 14), contemporary R&B and soul trio The Womack Sisters have unveiled the new single and video for “Chauffeur.” Directed by Shauna Presto, the visual leans into a classic, old-school feel, with the trio performing in a car and a lounge setting while showcasing their rich, powerful vocals as the video complements the song’s core message of perseverance and resilience.
Taken from her forthcoming album new avatar (out July 10), Kelela unveils the visual for “linknb,” directed by Mischa Notcutt. The video takes viewers on a stylish tour through New York City, blending sleek, contemporary imagery with an understated, old-school sensibility as Kelela delivers a captivating performance. Like much of her catalog, “linknb” feels simultaneously futuristic, alien, and nostalgic. Built around a minimalist backdrop of guitars and drums, the track allows her voice to take center stage, transforming a simple arrangement into something that feels like a genuine revelation.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT NOTES ———————————————————————
Taraji P. Henson and Jenifer Lewis have publicly criticized the 2026 Met Gala, questioning celebrity attendance due to its ties to Jeff Bezos. Lewis, in a passionate Instagram video, condemned attendees by highlighting layoffs, funding cuts, and broader social issues, even delivering her critique through song. Henson echoed the sentiment online, expressing disbelief over those choosing to attend. With Bezos and Lauren Sánchez serving as honorary co-chairs alongside stars like Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, and Venus Williams, the backlash extends beyond fashion. Both actresses framed the issue as a moral question, challenging whether celebrating such an event is appropriate given its controversial associations.
A decade after Insecure debuted, Issa Rae says Hollywood is slipping backward on diversity. She describes the industry as being in an “identity crisis,” with studios prioritizing social media creators over meaningful storytelling, making it harder for women of color to get projects made. Rae revealed that even executives of color are hesitant to support diverse voices out of fear for their jobs amid shifting attitudes toward DEI. Reflecting on her start with Awkward Black Girl, she noted that representation remains limited despite past progress. Rae added that creators now feel pressure to reframe stories to appeal to broader themes just to secure funding
Dave Chappelle is weighing a possible revival of Chappelle’s Show nearly 20 years after it ended. The Emmy-winning comedian recently revealed he’s begun “considering” revisiting the show, a shift from his previous stance. Originally airing from 2003 to 2006, the series ended amid reported creative and financial tensions. While details remain unclear, any return could potentially land on Netflix, where Chappelle has released multiple specials. He continues to face criticism over his 2021 special “The Closer,” but maintains his focus on staying true to his comedic voice.
Damson Idris is set to star in and executive produce The Lords’ Day, an upcoming series for Netflix. Adapted from the novel by Michael Dobbs, the story centers on a British spy trapped inside Parliament during a high-stakes lockdown on the State Opening day. As tensions rise, loyalties are tested and survival becomes uncertain. The six-episode thriller will be written by Sam Vincent and Jonathan Brackley, with Ben Chanan directing. Idris, who rose to prominence on Snowfall, continues to build momentum with major upcoming roles, including portraying Miles Davis in a future biopic, further cementing his growing presence in film and television.
NOW PLAYING ———————————————————————
Rising R&B soul artist Jamal Roberts delivers heartfelt emotion with his single “Perfect For Me,” celebrating love that embraces imperfection. The Mississippi native blends smooth vocals with intimate lyrics about connection and devotion, highlighted in lines reflecting deep admiration. Produced by Madelynn Elyse and Nick Sarpa, the track showcases Roberts’ soulful artistry and marks another step in his rising career.
With the release of her new single “BITCH,” Lizzo pairs a bold, feminist anthem with a striking black-and-white visual. Produced by Ricky Reed alongside other collaborators, the track flips a once-derogatory label into a statement of confidence and self-possession. The circus-themed video (directed by Child) amplifies that message, showcasing Lizzo in full command as she celebrates independence and identity. Built on echoes of Meredith Brooks and Missy Elliott, the record doubles as both homage and declaration.
After a four years of hiatus dedicated to growth and self-reflection, India Shawn returns with her EP Subject To Change , a six-track project exploring life’s transitions and emotional fluidity. Released via VANTA Music, the sonically rich work is executive produced by D’Mile and features R&B singer Lucky Daye on “Cotton Candy Blvd.” Other highlights include “Til’ Infinity,” “Multiplicity,” and the Billboard -recognized “Rain On Me,” marking a natural evolution from India's BEFORE WE GO era.
After a decade-long hiatus, The-Dream returns with “Bring That Body,” a smooth R&B and hip-hop blend that fits seamlessly into his catalog. The track explores desire for someone already taken, as he confidently positions himself as the better option while still expressing genuine admiration. The-Dream's controlled vocals and late-night energy drive the song, balancing charm and persuasion. Released via Radio Killa Records and Republic Records, it launches the next chapter of his “Love Saga” series.
Marking her return after three years away, Alina Baraz (a Cleveland native now based in Los Angeles) re-emerges with “Take Care Of You,” a warm, slow-burning R&B offering. Crafted with producers Iophiile and Los Hendrixx, the track surrounds Alina's delicate vocals with lush, airy production. Centered on reassurance and emotional presence, Baraz leans into vulnerability and devotion, delivering a soothing, intimate record that signals a graceful continuation of her sound.
North West makes a bold debut with her 6-track EP N0rth4evr , blending rage rap, emo, and hyperpop into a surprisingly distinct sound. Despite early expectations, the 12-year-old daughter of Ye carves out her own lane, moving beyond imitation with confident, experimental production. Standout moments like the title track showcase her fusion of nu-metal energy and melodic distortion. The project highlights North’s emerging identity, signaling a self-assured and creatively ambitious new voice in music.
Chris Brown returns with the cinematic video for “Fallin’,” featuring Leon Thomas, sparking immediate fan excitement upon release. The emotionally driven visual highlights their natural chemistry, with Thomas adding depth through smooth vocals. More than a standalone track, the song previews Brown’s upcoming album BROWN , hinting at a more personal, stripped-down direction. Focused on vulnerability and storytelling, the release signals a confident, introspective phase in his artistry.
Jessie Reyez returns with “Ain’t U Tired?” alongside Grammy-nominated R&B singer Muni Long, delivering a heartfelt, piano-driven love song rich in emotion and vocal chemistry. The track explores surrendering to undeniable love, with both artists blending distinct yet complementary styles. Accompanied by a dreamy, island-inspired visual, the release captures an intimate, authentic mood. Together, they create a warm, resonant record that feels both effortless and deeply affecting.
Rising R&B-pop artist Chxrry keeps her momentum going with “Bottles & Lights,” featuring Mariah The Scientist, as part of her upcoming debut album U, Me, and My Ego . Over a sultry groove, the duo delivers sharp, emotionally grounded lyrics centered on self-worth and boundaries. Blending confidence with vulnerability, Chxrry reinforces her message of empowerment, creating an anthem for women who embrace their value and refuse to settle.
New Orleans rapper La Reezy returns with “Melanate It,” a bluesy, piano-driven single that highlights his charisma, wit, and strong sense of identity. Blending honesty with individuality, he encourages self-love and pride in one’s skin while showcasing his artistic range. The track reflects his commitment to culture and authenticity, offering both inspiration and empowerment. With this release, Reezy sharpens his focus and message, inviting listeners to embrace freedom and confidently express themselves.
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.
For this Throwback Thursday spotlight, we revisit “Heard It All Before” by Sunshine Anderson, a defining anthem of early 2000s R&B. Released on February 27, 2001, as the lead single from her debut album Your Woman, the track (written by Anderson alongside Rayshawn Sherrer, Chris Dawley, and producer Mike City) captured the frustration of dealing with dishonesty in relationships. Its relatable message and smooth yet assertive delivery helped it crack the top 10 on the UK Singles Chart and the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop chart, while peaking at No. 18 on the Hot 100. Years later, the song found new life through a long-rumored remix featuring Brandy. Originally recorded in 2001 during sessions with Mike City, the duet remained unreleased until it surfaced online in 2006, before a high-quality version officially dropped via SoundCloud in 2016. Together, both versions underscore the lasting appeal of a song that still resonates with anyone who’s ever had enough and isn’t afraid to say it. Directed by Nzingha Stewart, the video for “Heard It All Before” brings the song’s emotional tension to life with a relatable, intimate storyline. Sunshine Anderson is shown confronting her unfaithful boyfriend before retreating to her apartment, where she reflects on the relationship. As she lounges on a couch and pours her emotions into the performance, visits from friends add a sense of support and realism, reinforcing the song’s theme of knowing your worth and walking away.
Two years after 2024’s Crash, Kehlani returns with her self-titled fifth album Kehlani, released on her birthday, April 24. A 17-track effort led by the standout single “Folded,” the project leans heavily into the emotional core of ’90s and 2000s R&B, where yearning, vulnerability, and intimacy take center stage. Aided by a producers’ lot that includes the Stereotypes, Khris Riddick-Tynes, and Andre “Dre” Harris, the album aims to balance nostalgia with modern polish. However, while it attempts to build on the momentum of its critically praised lead single, its length ultimately makes it feel rushed and, at times, unfocused. The intro track, “Intro,” produced by Antonio Lamar Dixon and Khris Riddick-Tynes, sets a deeply personal tone. Kehlani closes the opening with the line, “I am Kehlani,” reinforcing that this project is less about outside expectations and more a reflection of her present self. Throughout the album, themes of heartbreak, reconciliation, longing, and emotional growth are explored with varying degrees of success. The guest-heavy tracklist yields mixed results (rap group Clipse ,ail it in on “No Such Thing,” while Lil Wayne’s brash energy on “Anotha Luva” feels disconnected from the album’s emotional core). In contrast, Big Sean, Usher, and Leon Thomas provide standout contributions that better align with the project’s tone. Lyrically, Kehlani shines brightest when it leans into vulnerability, revisiting the raw emotional storytelling that defined earlier eras of R&B. Still, inconsistent production and filler tracks like “Still,” “Pocket,” and “Out the Window” dilute its impact. The closing track, “Unlearn,” serves as a fitting finale, exploring her growth beyond past habits and emotional patterns, and offering a sense of closure. While the album captures flashes of brilliance and sincerity, it ultimately feels uneven, strongest when Kehlani slows down, reflects, and allows her emotional depth to take the lead. Standout Tracks: "Cruise Control", "Unlearn", "Shoulda Never", & "Lights On" Rating: 6/10 - Simon P Williams
SEARCH
Few groups captured the spirit of 1960s pop quite like The Ronettes, the trailblazing trio from Washington Heights, New York. Comprised of Ronnie Spector (born Veronica Bennett), her sister Estelle Bennett, and their cousin Nedra Talley, the group rose from humble family performances to international fame. What began as teenage harmonies in their grandmother’s living room evolved into a defining sound of the girl group era, blending soulful vocals with a bold, unmistakable style that would influence generations. Their breakthrough came under the guidance of producer Phil Spector, whose “Wall of Sound” elevated tracks like Be My Baby into timeless classics. The song soared to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the most iconic recordings in pop history, later earning a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame. Follow-up hits such as “Baby, I Love You,” “Walking in the Rain,” and “(The Best Part of) Breakin’ Up” solidified their chart presence, while their lone album, Presenting the Fabulous Ronettes Featuring Veronica, earned critical acclaim and lasting recognition. Beyond the charts, the Ronettes left an indelible mark on music culture. They toured with legends like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, becoming the only girl group to join the Beatles on a U.S. tour. Their influence extended far beyond their era, inspiring artists from Brian Wilson to Amy Winehouse, while their signature beehive hair and dramatic eye makeup became a cultural blueprint for pop style. Even as the British Invasion reshaped the musical landscape, the Ronettes remained a powerful presence. Though internal tensions and industry challenges led to their breakup in 1967, their legacy endured through accolades and recognition, including inductions into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. With the passing of Nedra Talley last month, all original members of the Ronettes have now died, marking the end of an era. Yet their music continues to echo through time—romantic, rebellious, and unmistakably theirs—ensuring that the voice of the Ronettes will remain eternal.
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 ———————————————————————
Co-produced with noted songwriter Olmo Zucca, Malaysian singer Yuna returns with her deeply personal five-track EP The Valour Hour. Featuring songs like “Believer” and “Wasteland,” the project explores themes of resilience and perseverance through difficult moments, reflecting a more introspective side of the artist. The release arrives just months after her critically acclaimed Yuna The Valour Hour concert at Zepp Kuala Lumpur, further extending the emotional and creative narrative behind the project.
Jamaican singer/songwriter Jada Kingdom delivers a striking visual for “Still Searching,” a standout from her EP (released last month) Just A Girl In A Money Man’s World . The video reimagines Damian Marley’s 2001 classic with a modern lens of confidence and control. The release continues Jada's recent momentum, following the New Religion EP featuring Foggieraw, which explored themes of romance and emotional depth.
Dancehall sensation Vybz Kartel returns with “Victory,” a powerful new single marking his first visit back to Portmore since his release. Produced by Juju Romillion and Aikopondibeat, the track is paired with a Shane Creative–directed video capturing crowds celebrating his homecoming. The release follows the freedom of Kahira “Kyro” Jones, adding emotional weight, and continues Kartel’s spiritually themed run after God Is The Greatest.
California-bred rapper, singer, and songwriter Malaynah returns with her new single “Trust You,” featuring rising Los Angeles rapper Big Sad 1900. The uptempo track finds Malaynah delivering sharp, unfiltered lyrics that explore themes of relationships, loyalty, and trust. Complementing her energy, Big Sad 1900 adds a gruff verse praising her independence and authenticity, highlighting her ability to remain genuine within a relationship.The groovy hook, as sung by Malaynah, adds to the single's gritty flair.
Nigerian singer-songwriter KFMD releases “Pepper Me,” a vibrant 2026 single showcasing his distinctive sound and rising momentum. The track features standout contributions from Qing Madi and Zinoleesky, whose styles add energy and flair. Produced by IBKSLEEK, the song blends infectious beats with catchy lyrics, highlighting KFMD’s musical versatility and growing presence.
Nigerian gospel singer and songwriter Lovn delivers a captivating new single, “Available,” a track defined by its simplicity and emotional clarity that makes it both intimate and easy to connect with. Blending influences from his Yoruba roots and church upbringing, Lovn crafts a sound that feels authentic and refreshing, continuing to showcase his unique artistry. “Available” stands out as a meaningful addition to Nigeria’s high-quality music scene and is well worth adding to your playlist.
Born and raised in New Jersey, rising hip-hop talent Chris Patrick returns with his latest single “Run It Back,” featuring R&B singer Mack Keane, delivering a smooth blend of rap and R&B. The track combines a silky, melodic hook with sharp, confident verses that showcase Patrick’s evolving artistry and songwriting skill. With its polished sound and broad appeal, “Run It Back” further cements his upward momentum heading further into 2026.
Samara Cyn joins forces with Hit-Boy on “Clink,” a sleek new single accompanied by a visually striking video directed by LIIM. Gliding effortlessly over Hit-Boy’s polished production, Cyn delivers a confident performance that reflects her evolving artistry following her recent EP Detour. The track will appear on the upcoming See You Next Year 3 compilation, curated by Pigeons & Planes and Big Ass Kids, highlighting a diverse lineup of rising talent and fresh collaborations.
Directed by Rogue Bonaventura, singer-songwriter Maya J’an (who has previously collaborated with artists like Pharrell and Justine Skye) unveils the visuals for “New June.” The track, taken from Maya's debut EP blindfaith county (arriving May 15), showcases her softer side as she navigates a range of emotions, from finding hope and building connection to reflecting on past love, all delivered with graceful, expressive vocals.