West Coast lyricist Ras Kass is gearing up to release his long-awaited album Leopard Eats Face on February 13, and he’s setting the tone with the new single “Hit List.” Produced by Genre and S Class, the track arrives with a dark, haunting video directed by Gifted Glitch that amplifies its gritty narrative through ominous imagery and visceral effects. Both warning shot and manifesto, “Hit List” showcases Ras Kass’ sharp intellect and uncompromising bars ahead of the highly anticipated project.

After a 10-year wait, J. Cole has finally released The Fall-Off, his seventh and purportedly final studio album, arriving February 6 as a 24-track double LP. Executive produced by Cole, Ibrahim “IB” Hamad and T-Minus, the project is split into “Disc 29” and “Disc 39,” reflecting his journey from a rising Fayetteville MC to a seasoned 41-year-old veteran. Framed as a full-circle moment and potential farewell, the album captures a decade-long rollout and Cole’s evolution, positioning The Fall-Off as a defining closing chapter in the Dreamville leader’s celebrated career.

DC-bred rapper Wale has released the visual for “Watching Us,” featuring Grammy winner Leon Thomas, offering a stylish companion to a standout track from his eighth album Everything Is A Lot. Directed by Hidji, the video contrasts intimate at-home moments with scenes of nightlife glamour as the pair move through upscale party settings. Built around a sample of Goapele’s “Closer,” the track blends smooth nostalgia with modern polish, marking another confident step in Wale’s return following his late-2025 comeback.

Dutch singer Leven Kali is giving fans room to “Breathe!” as he gears up for his upcoming album LK99, arriving this spring. Following last summer’s LK99: The Prelude EP, the self-produced single blends disco-inspired guitar, funky bass and pulsing drums into a sleek, dancefloor-ready groove. Toggling between motivational pep talk and sensual vibe, “Breathe!” captures Kali’s retro-soul aesthetic while offering a fresh preview of the fully realized LK99 era now on the horizon.

Christopher “Kid” Reid, best known as one-half of the iconic hip-hop duo Kid ‘n Play, has revealed he underwent a heart transplant, opening up publicly about his health for the first time during an interview on Good Morning America. Reid told co-anchor Michael Strahan he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure last July after visiting an emergency room when fatigue and shortness of breath worsened. Initially, he said he attributed the symptoms to aging and the demands of touring. After being prescribed medication, Reid’s condition raised concern during a follow-up appointment when swelling returned quickly. His cardiologist, Dr. Erika Jones, said additional bloodwork confirmed his heart was failing and affecting other organs. Reid was urged to go to the emergency room immediately and was rushed to the ICU, where doctors informed him that a heart transplant would be his only viable option. He was placed on the transplant waiting list as his condition became life-threatening. Just eight days later, Reid received the call that a donor heart was available. He underwent a seven-hour surgery and successfully received the transplant. Now recovering, Reid said he plans to cherish his renewed life and second chance. “This thing is … a beautiful life,” he said. “It’s great. And, you know, I wanna be around for it.”

Authorities in Milton, Georgia, say a body recovered Friday is believed to be Nathan Smith, the 27-year-old son of rapper Lil Jon who had been reported missing earlier this week. According to the Milton Police Department, divers with the Cherokee County Fire Department located the body just before noon in a pond near Baldwin Drive and Mayfield Road, close to where Smith was last seen on Tuesday. Officials said the identity is pending confirmation by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office. Police stated there is currently no indication of foul play but noted the case remains an open and active investigation. Officials said no additional information will be released until the medical examiner determines the official cause and manner of death and investigators have thoroughly examined all leads. The department also expressed condolences to the Smith family and asked the public and media to respect their privacy during the grieving process. Smith, also known as DJ Young Slade, was reported missing after reportedly running from his home around 6 a.m. on Feb. 3, just a few hundred feet from the neighborhood pond where search efforts were concentrated. Authorities previously said he may have been disoriented and in need of assistance. In a statement, Lil Jon and Smith’s mother, Nicole Smith, said they are devastated by the loss of their son and thanked the public for their prayers and support during the search.

Rising R&B singer-songwriter Girlfriend continues to define her own lane with Honey Water , a ten-song project that reflects her most confident era yet. Mississippi-born and Los Angeles-based, she blends Southern warmth with West Coast intimacy, delivering honest, emotionally precise storytelling. Released via Encore Recordings, the feature-free project is entirely self-written, with Girlfriend also serving as co-executive producer. Anchored by the introspective track “Deep,” Honey Water explores desire, healing, and self-discovery through cohesive production and vulnerability-driven songwriting.

Legendary R&B icon Johnny Gill returns with the music video for his new single “One Night,” a passionate, sensual ballad written by Gregg Pagani and Francesca Richard. The visual matches the song’s grown-and-sexy, traditional R&B feel, reflecting Gill’s renewed creative focus and deep connection with his fans. The release arrives as Gill announces an upcoming tour, while continuing his legacy with New Edition, who are also preparing for a 2026 North American run.

Memphis rapper and singer Brezay links with Akeem Ali on the official video for “Overthinker’s Dance,” a smooth, emotionally aware track that explores the tension between anxious thoughts and self-expression. The visual brings that inner conflict to life through movement and mood. Jackson, Mississippi native Ali adds his signature ’70s-inspired flair, blending swooning rap lyrics with melodic hooks and a funk-disco groove.