Released on October 31, 1998, D’Angelo’s “Devil’s Pie” marked a bold new direction for the R&B visionary. Teaming up with Gang Starr’s DJ Premier, the track traded the smooth, urban contemporary polish of Brown Sugar for a raw, experimental sound that previewed the earthy funk and groove-driven vibe of his 2000 masterpiece Voodoo. Originally made for rapper Canibus (who passed on it), the song ultimately found its perfect home with D’Angelo and landed on the soundtrack for the 1998 film Belly. Musically, “Devil’s Pie” is a stripped-down, hip-hop-infused jam built from vintage P-Funk harmonies and a collage of samples from Teddy Pendergrass, Fat Joe, Pierre Henry, and Raekwon. It stands as one of Voodoo’s most sample-heavy cuts, reflecting D’Angelo’s creative chemistry with members of the Soulquarians collective, including J Dilla, whose rhythmic fingerprints subtly shape the song’s percussive swing. The result is a gritty, hypnotic groove that feels both spiritual and streetwise. Lyrically, “Devil’s Pie” cuts deep into the materialism and moral compromises infecting late-’90s hip-hop culture. With biting commentary on greed, ego, and the temptation of “dough, cream, ice, cheddar, and bread,” D’Angelo delivers what Questlove once called a “sermon against the money-hungry, jiggafied state of the world.” Over a haunting beat, he reminds listeners that success without soul is its own kind of prison — making “Devil’s Pie” a timeless warning wrapped in irresistible funk.

R&B veteran Rantz Davis returns with “Pressure,” a vibrant collaboration with Grammy-nominated artist Vscript. Blending smooth vocals and cultural flair, the duo introduces AfroBounce: a fusion of Afrobeat rhythms and New Orleans Bounce energy. The infectious single showcases Rantz’s signature soul and Vscript’s innovation, marking another milestone for the first R&B artist from New Orleans to chart on Billboard.

Chicago native Sól shines in the new video for “Lover Girl,” a dreamy indie R&B track produced by Kid Neptune and directed by Killflam. Channeling divine feminine energy, Sól delivers sultry, soulful vocals that celebrate self-love, confidence, and romantic potential. With lyrics like “I give my loving and affection... two beings of light,” the song radiates warmth, intimacy, and high-vibe connection. 

India Shawn continues her empowering new era with the release of “Gone” and its cinematic neo-Western video directed by David Maxwell. Produced by D’Mile and John Kercy, the soulful track blends southern warmth with modern R&B. With surf guitars, whistling, and a stirring piano solo, Shawn reclaims her peace and power, turning heartbreak into freedom, clarity, and self-assured strength.

Dave East returns in full force with Karma 4, a 26-track statement album that reaffirms his place among New York’s elite lyricists. Blending gritty storytelling with introspection and growth, the project includes standout singles “Demon” and “Bottega Trunks” featuring Stove God Cooks. With appearances from Jeremih, Key Glock, Mozzy, and the late Nipsey Hussle, Karma 4 showcases East’s evolution while honoring hip-hop’s roots. Its cover art—an homage to Tupac’s iconic VIBE Magazine shoot—symbolizes his respect for the culture and his rise as one of its torchbearers.

Grammy-winning R&B icon D’Angelo, known for his raspy yet soulful vocals and the unforgettable “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” music video, has died at 51. His family confirmed Tuesday that the singer, born Michael Eugene Archer, passed away after a battle with cancer. In a statement, they described him as “a shining star of our family” whose light “has dimmed for us in this life.” A trailblazer of the 1990s neo-soul movement, the Virginia native rose to fame with his 1995 debut Brown Sugar, which earned platinum status and multiple Grammy nominations. His 2000 follow-up, Voodoo, topped the Billboard 200 and won the Grammy for Best R&B Album, with “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” earning Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. The song’s minimalist, intimate video became a cultural touchstone, sparking conversations about artistry, sensuality, and Black male vulnerability. Beyond his solo success, D’Angelo’s influence extended through collaborations with Lauryn Hill on “Nothing Even Matters” and contributions to The Roots’ Illadelph Halflife. He also co-wrote “U Will Know” for the film Jason’s Lyric as part of Black Men United. D’Angelo shared a son, artist Swayvo Twain, with late R&B singer Angie Stone, his former partner and creative collaborator, who called him her “musical soul mate.” He is also survived by his daughter, Imani Archer.

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.

Ghanaian singer Gyakie, affectionately known as the Song Bird, has released the stunning visuals for her soulful track “Fire on the Mountain” from her debut album After Midnight . The video captures the intimate emotion and artistry that define Gyakie’s signature R&B and afro-fusion sound. Known for her heartfelt vocals and poetic depth, Gyakie once again proves why she remains one of Ghana’s most captivating musical talents.

Grammy and Oscar-winning artists Tiara Thomas and H.E.R. reunite for their empowering new single “Move,” released via ONErpm. Co-written by the duo and produced by Non Native and Luis Bordeaux, the smooth, downtempo track delivers a message of confidence and self-worth, urging listeners to set boundaries and walk away from negativity. The song’s new animated video, created by Naarm/Melbourne-based illustrator Peo Michie, visually amplifies the theme with vibrant, soulful imagery that captures the essence of empowerment and renewal.