It’s been a fun-filled and music-filled week, from debut album drops, to New York Fashion Week and the MTV Video Music Awards. We’ve got all the music you need to start this week on a high note, whether it’s gritty West Coast storytelling by Mozzy or hip-swaying Afro-fusion from Nigerian up-and-comer Tems.
Don’t forget to share the wealth with our Spotify playlist, linked below.
Tems, “Crazy Tings”
With the unofficial song of the summer under her belt, Nigerian afro-fusion crooner Tems is back with her latest single, “Crazy Tings.” On the sunshine-filled track produced by Guity Beatz, bouncy guitar intermingles with hip-swaying percussion, as the promising newcomer laments over almost-love in her untouchable vocal tone.
Baby Keem, “trademark usa”
On the opening track of his debut album, The Melodic Blue, rapper Baby Keem packs a double punch, showcasing his unparalleled range, both as a rapper and producer. The 20-year-old multi-hyphenate jumps from flow to flow, speeding up and slowing down in unison with the track’s undeniably dynamic instrumental. “What’s next?/ War and turbulence, prayin’ on this plane/ Success, got a taste of it, never was the same,” he spits in a spoken-word cadence before blasting into the next section of the song. The track is a perfect introduction to the world for Keem, cementing the Las Vegas native as one of the freshest emerging artists in rap today.
Syd & Smino, “Right Track”
On the collaboration of our underground dreams, L.A. native Syd is on the “Right Track” alongside rapper Smino, delivering a summery, ’90s-inspired R&B bop. On the track, Syd expresses her undying love for a special someone to a beat featuring bright guitars, reminiscent of 1999 Destiny’s Child deep cut, “So Good.” On the second verse, Smino plays with his words, rapping, “You granted me access to that ass, I won’t take it for granted.”
Killertunes feat. Odunsi (The Engine), “Do Me”
Nigerian songwriter and producer Killertunes released his 13-track LP, including afro-beats gems infused with jazz influence. The opening track “Do Me,” is equal parts smooth, ethereal and sexy, featuring raspy vocals from fellow Nigeria native, Odunsi (The Engine). Sitting at two minutes and 45 seconds, it’s bound to be a replay staple.
Ron Suno & Dusty Locane, “Grabba (Remix)”
The Bronx and Brooklyn came together to wrap up chaotic boy summer on Ron Suno’s remix of “Grabba” featuring fellow drill rapper Dusty Locane. In the visual, the pair storm through Manhattan with their squad, dancing, performing and interacting with fans. Both rappers deliver menacing bars, as a choral sample loops in the background of the Brooklyn drill-style beat.
Pia Mia, “730”
On “730,” Pia Mia is jaded and out of love. Over a dark, guitar-heavy beat, the singer has given her all to her lover, singing “‘Cause I had enough tonight/ I ran out of love tonight/ Confessing your love tonight/ But that doesn’t make it right.”
Chris Patrick, “Gang Activity”
True loyalty is hard to come by, but on “Gang Activity,” Chris Patrick is still with the real n—as that he came with. The New Jersey rapper passionately spits about his day ones, floating all over a soulful, boom-bap beat.
Bino Rideaux feat. King Combs, “No Makeup”
South Central L.A. artist Bino Rideaux linked with King Combs for their bouncy new single, “No Makeup.” The song and video are full of West Coast energy as the two are surrounded by women, money and palm trees.
Duke Deuce, “WTF!”
Memphis rapper Duke Deuce finally turned his signature ad-lib “Wtf!” into a song — and well, it’s pretty self-explanatory.
Mozzy, “Straight to 4th”
Mozzy has one of the most distinct rap voices in the game right now. Paired with his knack for storytelling, the Sacramento rapper is staying the course with his raw delivery on “Straight to 4th.” With a plethora of projects already under his belt, the new single is the first off of his forthcoming project Untreated Trauma.
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