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.

Cali-bred jazz flutist, vocalist, and composer Elena Pinderhughes releases “Life Goes On,” a soulful new single featuring acclaimed saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins. Released today, the track blends jazz, R&B, and heartfelt songwriting, showcasing Pinderhughes’ evolving identity as both an accomplished instrumentalist and singer-songwriter. Described by Pinderhughes as deeply personal, “Life Goes On” embraces comfort, openness, and emotional lightness, creating a soft, inviting sound that reflects her artistic growth.

Houston-based contemporary R&B artist Jastin Martin delivers an emotionally raw new single, “Catch Me (Before It’s Too Late),” exploring the vulnerability of taking a leap of faith in love. Written and produced by Martin and Timothy German, known as Sir Tim, the understated ballad captures the fear and excitement of lowering your guard and trusting someone to catch you.

Hip-hop icons Rakim, Kurupt and Masta Killa unite for 'The Godbody', a landmark collaborative album produced entirely by Rakim and Nick Wiz. The project features Rakim’s first solo, self-produced track in 15 years, “A Different Kind,” alongside appearances from Snoop Dogg, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, KRS-One and others. Inspired by Tupac Shakur’s vision of East-West unity, the album celebrates legacy, lyrical excellence, mutual respect and the enduring spirit of “One Nation.”

Coi Leray is revisiting her 2023 tension with fellow rapper Latto, revealing that the situation eventually turned physical. During an interview on The Jason Lee Show, Leray discussed Latto’s “Put It on Da Floor,” which included a reference to her name. Leray said she disliked being pulled into what she viewed as an online rap beef, explaining that she did not want her name used for “clickbait” or clout. According to Leray, the conflict later escalated into a physical altercation with Latto’s sister, Brooklyn. Leray said the two eventually exchanged blows during an encounter behind the scenes, claiming she refractured her knee during the incident. She described the confrontation as a situation in which both women swung at each other. Leray’s comments provide new details about a feud that had previously played out largely through music and social media.  Meanwhile, Leray appears to be preparing for her next album. In a cinematic social-media video styled as a press conference, reporters ask the rapper what comes next, prompting her to respond simply, “My album.” She did not reveal a title, release date, tracklist or featured artists. The project would mark her first full-length album since Coi, released in June 2023, following her Lemon Cars and What Happened to Forever? EPs.

Jill Scott has postponed the final four U.S. dates of her To Whom This May Concern tour after testing positive for COVID-19. The Grammy-winning singer announced the news August 30, explaining that what doctors initially believed was a minor virus had developed into COVID-19. Although Scott said she felt OK, she decided to reschedule the performances out of concern for the health and safety of fans, crew and others.  Scott later reflected on her celebrated career during Billboard’s 2026 R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players celebration on September 9. During a panel at Billboard House moderated by Kyle Denis, she discussed co-writing The Roots’ “You Got Me,” lessons from her landmark debut album Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1, and the challenges of touring in 2026 behind To Whom This May Concern. She also discussed the newly released third installment of the Why Did I Get Married? film franchise. The celebration culminated with Scott’s induction into Billboard’s R&B Hall of Fame later that evening. Reflecting on the honor, she described feeling shocked, grateful and excited, adding that she never takes recognition for her music for granted. Scott also recalled touring with The Roots early in her career, saying the group helped teach her what she wanted (and did not want) from life on the road.

Trinidadian soca singer and songwriter Nailah Blackman appears to be riding the wave of Yung Miami’s summer hit “Spend Dat” with her latest single, “Bless Me.” A catchy, dance-driven track built around infectious soca rhythms and feel-good energy from the Piccadilly Street Riddim album. The song, produced by Anson Productions, allows Blackman’s sweet vocals to shine throughout as she delivers an unapologetic anthem for women, celebrating independence, confidence and a desire to be blessed financially on their own terms.

Anderson .Paak and Cordae continue their impressive chemistry on “A Good Day,” the first single from their upcoming joint album HEAVY IS THE CROWN . Built around a warm sample of Bill Withers’ timeless 1977 classic “Lovely Day” and inspired by Ice Cube’s “It Was A Good Day,” the track delivers charisma, wit and feel-good energy. Directed by Dave Meyers, the accompanying video finds the duo hanging out, getting into various hijinks around the neighborhood, and showcasing the close-knit friendship that makes their musical partnership so compelling.

London singer and songwriter Joy Crookes teams with Florida rapper Denzel Curry on “Painkiller,” a soulful, left-field collaboration that brings ’90s hip-hop influences together with sweeping, string-laden classic soul. Produced by Dweller and Crookes, the song reflects on a past relationship through disillusionment and tearstained regret, while Curry delivers a restrained performance that complements Crookes’ unmistakably soulful vocals. Directed by Ethan and Tom, the cinematic video captures the chemistry between two artists from different musical worlds.