Honey Bxby links with Grammy-nominated rapper JID on “A Thousand Times,” a Worldwidefresh-produced collaboration that taps into the classic 2000s formula of smooth R&B vocals paired with a dope rap verse. Honey’s fearless emotional transparency and biting humor complement JID’s agile lyricism and distinctive cadence, creating a soulful, sharp-tongued exchange. The pairing feels nostalgic without trying to recreate the past, instead reminding listeners why R&B and rap have always worked so well together.

Brooklyn-based actor and singer-songwriter Chelsie Denise blends contemporary R&B with konpa, the vibrant Haitian music and dance genre, on her new single “Don’t You Know.” The romantic track explores the longing for genuine love and loyalty, while reflecting on the emotional power a partner can have once the right connection is found. Combining soulful R&B with Haitian influences, Chelsie creates an intimate, heartfelt song about vulnerability, devotion and lasting love.

Fridayy has released his third studio album, Tension, a 12-track project exploring love, uncertainty, desire and personal growth. Released through Def Jam Recordings, the Philadelphia artist continues blending contemporary R&B, hip-hop and melodic songwriting with an intimate focus. Tracks including “Haiku,” “Can You Stay,” “Time Will Tell” and “Skip The Club” explore relationships from different perspectives, while “Death Do Us Part,” featuring Mariah The Scientist, closes the album with emotional storytelling and vulnerability.

De La Soul has released the official music video for “Run It Back!!” featuring Nas, one of the standout tracks from the group’s acclaimed tenth studio album, Cabin in the Sky, via Mass Appeal Records. Directed by Justice Silvera, the visual blends culture, color and motion, taking viewers from De La Soul’s beginnings in Amityville, Long Island, to Queens, where Nas joins the group for a stylized New York ride through Hip-Hop history.

Longtime Hip-Hop rapper/lyricist Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def, has released a new video for “Priority,” directed by filmmaker and photographer Cognito and featuring previously unseen footage from the era. The release celebrates Bey’s partnership with Rhymesayers Entertainment and the reissue of his acclaimed 2009 album The Ecstatic. The album returned to all physical formats August 14, marking its first worldwide distribution in more than 15 years, while also streaming on Qobuz.

Solange Knowles is remembering her former Bring It On: All or Nothing costar Hayden Panettiere following the actress’ death on Sunday, Aug. 16. Knowles, who starred alongside Panettiere in the 2006 film, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, reflecting on their time together and the impact of their work. The two portrayed rival cheerleading captains in the film, with Knowles playing Camille and Panettiere portraying Britney. In an Instagram Story, Knowles described Panettiere as someone who “courageously” lived in her truth while pursuing vulnerability and healing. She also reflected on the significance of the movie and their performances, writing that the project eventually became meaningful to audiences in ways they could not have imagined as two young women. Knowles also shared photos of the pair in their cheerleading uniforms, captioning them “warriors for life.” Other Bring It On: All or Nothing cast members have also mourned Panettiere, including Francia Raisa. Panettiere, best known for her roles in Nashville and Heroes, was found unresponsive at Judson Mill Lofts in Greenville, South Carolina, on Aug. 16. According to the Greenville Police Department, officers and emergency medical personnel responded after an acquaintance called 911, but Panettiere was pronounced dead at the scene.

A rare video of a young Beyoncé speaking with Michael Jackson has resurfaced online, drawing renewed attention to a moment involving producer F. Marc Schaffel. The footage, reportedly filmed around 2001 while Beyoncé was still a member of Destiny’s Child, shows her taking a phone call from Jackson while sitting on Schaffel’s lap. The scene has prompted viewers to question the professional boundaries surrounding the young singer. The footage reportedly came from an unaired reality project filmed by Schaffel and was recorded during work connected to Jackson’s charity single “What More Can I Give.” Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child were among the artists associated with the project, which brought together major performers following the September 11 attacks. During the resurfaced clip, Beyoncé appears excited to learn that Jackson admired her work before speaking with him about the charity recording and expressing her appreciation for being involved. Schaffel’s presence has added further context because he served as an executive producer on “What More Can I Give” and previously worked closely with Jackson. Their professional relationship later became the subject of a legal dispute over money Schaffel claimed he was owed, with a 2006 jury awarding him $900,000 while ordering him to pay Jackson $200,000. However, that history does not establish anything improper about the Beyoncé footage. Online discussion has instead centered on the sight of Beyoncé sitting on Schaffel’s lap, while no verified public statement from Beyoncé explaining the interaction has emerged.

Baltimore-born vocalist Gabby Samone, an American Idol finalist, delivers “Safe,” an R&B-leaning single rooted in trust, vulnerability, gospel, classic soul, and emotive vocals. Written and produced by Selasi, Jeremy J Dot Jones, and Menardini Bridge Timothee, the song serves as the emotional heart of Soft Girl Era, embracing softness as strength while exploring healing, renewed trust, and finding peace in feeling loved.

Rising Nigerian singer Guchi returns with her upbeat new single “Call Me,” delivering a smooth, dance-driven track centered on love, attraction, and staying connected. The song combines catchy lyrics with infectious rhythms, creating an energetic sound designed to keep listeners moving. Blending Afropop influences with a lively, feel-good atmosphere, “Call Me” is well suited for club nights, house parties, and summer playlists as Guchi once again showcases her ability to create accessible, vibrant music that connects with audiences.