Up-n-coming Southern rapper Trim drops her catchy new single "Guapo", an unapologetic anthem dedicated to money, lust, materialism and the glam life. The track (which also features rappers Bankroll Ni, Bri3 & thickney) serves as a tease for Trim's upcoming EP. Pass the Tiara as the 19yo Charleston native and so-called "girl's girl of rap' continues to place all bets on herself and her rising stardom.

Veteran rapper Yung Miami returns with the surprise release of her bold new video for “News Flash,” a bass-heavy anthem produced by Quay Global. The sharp-tongued track finds the platinum-selling star addressing critics while celebrating her wins and stepping confidently into her solo era. Calling the song personal and unapologetic, Yung Miami declares she’s standing in her truth — unbothered, unstoppable, and firmly in control of her narrative.

Mary J. Blige celebrates Valentine’s Day with her heartfelt new single, “More Than A Lover,” released via Beautiful Life Productions. Produced by Camper, the transcendent track finds the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul basking in deep, enduring romance. It marks her first release since her 15th album, Gratitude (2024), reflecting the thankfulness she says defines this chapter of her life.

On To Whom This May Concern , her first album in more than a decade, Jill Scott returns with a bold, personal statement rooted in growth, independence, and Black joy. The 11-track project, released Feb. 13 via Blues Babe Records, finds Scott blending syrupy ’70s grooves, ’90s hip-hop energy, big band jazz swing, and the meditative soulfulness that defined her neo-soul beginnings. Throughout the album, she honors those who steadied her (from her uncle Lonnie to renowned poet Nikki Giovanni) while embracing a private revolution shaped by lived experience. Featuring appearances from Trombone Shorty, Too Short, Tierra Whack, Ab-Soul, and JID, with production from Seige Monstracity and DJ Premier, the album highlights Scott’s renewed creative freedom and fearless authenticity.

Young Chris links with MadeinTYO for the official video for “Fine Wine & Steak,” released via MNRK Music Group. Directed by DevKameraJawn, the visual opens with cameos from State Property’s Freeway, Neef Buck, and Beanie Sigel. Set against a backdrop of luxury and fine dining, the hard-hitting track pairs MadeinTYO’s knocking production with Young Chris’ commanding, Philly-bred delivery.

What began as a romantic Valentine’s moment has spiraled into a public family feud for Grammy-winning singer Fantasia Barrino. During a recent live show in Texas, her husband, Kendall Taylor, surprised her with a heartfelt proposal. Days later, however, the celebration was overshadowed by accusations from her father, Joseph Barrino, who alleged Taylor had mishandled or stolen money from the singer. Fantasia fired back in a now-deleted Instagram post, strongly defending her husband and calling out her father over past issues, including screenshots of a 2024 arrest showing a misdemeanor domestic violence charge. She denied any financial wrongdoing within their companies, emphasizing that she serves as CEO while Taylor is president. Joseph, in a video circulating online, claimed the public proposal was a distraction from missing funds and said he felt obligated as her father to speak out, even at the cost of their relationship.  The dispute has divided fans on social media, with some expressing concern over Joseph’s claims and others criticizing him for publicly targeting his daughter and son-in-law. The family tension echoes a complicated history between Fantasia and her father, who previously filed a $10 million libel lawsuit in 2006 over a book about her life. Taylor has since responded, stating that he encouraged a prenuptial agreement to reassure loved ones he has no interest in her wealth.

Music producer Teddy Riley moved quickly to clarify his stance Thursday after facing criticism for remarks about potentially working with imprisoned R&B singer R. Kelly. In an interview published Wednesday, Riley said he had spoken with Kelly “a few times” and was exploring the possibility of bringing in investors to release music Kelly reportedly recorded while serving a 30-year federal prison sentence for racketeering and sex trafficking. “Everybody deserves a second chance,” Riley said at the time, adding that he saw himself as “the messenger to bring R&B back.” By Thursday, however, Riley appeared to reverse course. In a statement posted to Instagram, the veteran hitmaker said his comments were rooted in creative enthusiasm but acknowledged the broader impact of his words. “I also understand that words carry weight, and I never want my passion for music to overshadow the very real pain that many people have experienced,” Riley wrote. He added that if his remarks caused harm, he sincerely apologized, emphasizing that survivors of abuse “deserve to be acknowledged with care and respect.” Riley, whose career includes collaborations with Michael Jackson, Bobby Brown and Keith Sweat, later described the idea of working with Kelly as a passing creative discussion that “will not move forward.” He stressed that appreciating music’s cultural impact does not equate to condoning harmful behavior and said his focus remains on maintaining a legacy “rooted in innovation, integrity, and love for the art form.” Riley recently released his memoir, “Remember the Times,” chronicling his life and career.

This Throwback Thursday shines a spotlight on “Into You,” the smooth, radio-dominating single from Fabolous’ 2003 sophomore album Street Dreams. Produced by DJ Clue and DURO, the track reimagined Tamia’s 1998 hit “So Into You,” blending hip-hop swagger with R&B romance. Its layered samples and heartfelt lyrics helped define early-2000s rap and R&B collaborations, making it one of Fabolous’ signature records.  Originally, Ashanti recorded a version of the song for the album, but label complications prevented her from appearing in the music video. As a result, Tamia stepped in to re-record a commercial version and star in the visuals alongside Fabolous. The now-iconic video, directed by Erik White and filmed on a cloudy Malibu beach, turned unexpected rainy weather into a stylish, cinematic love story that still resonates with fans. “Into You” became a major commercial success, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching the top 10 in multiple countries. It also marked one of Fabolous’ highest-charting singles at the time and remained on year-end charts throughout 2003. More than two decades later, the track continues to stand as a timeless fusion of hip-hop and R&B that captures the sound and style of its era.

Rising R&B talent Shaylin B continues her ascent with new single "Zodiac Sippin'" featuring rapper/singer Ye Ali. Produced by CasperDoItAgain, the romantic, vibe-heavy track showcases her velvety vocals and confident presence. The Chicago-born, California-raised artist has previously shared stages and collaborated with icons like Kanye West, Stevie Wonder, Pharrell Williams, and Nelly, further signaling her rising momentum.