Doja Cat, SZA & Doechii Highlight This Week’s New Music Roundup

1. Little Brother – Wish Me Well

On Monday (9/18/2023), the seminal Rap duo Little Brother announced new music on social media. At midnight (9/19/2023), LB co-founders Phonte and Rapper Big Pooh returned with two new singles, “Wish Me Well” and “Glory Glory”. Produced by Pumah and Grammy-winning producer Conductor Williams, respectively, the new two-piece serves as the duo’s first new music release since their 2019 surprise comeback May The Lord Watch. 

“We wanted to bless our fans with new music to show them we’re not leaning on nostalgia. After 20 years in the game, we’re still hungry and actively working to improve our craft.” – Phonte

“We hear and see the requests for new music. We felt it was time. Time to show our minds are still sharp and we’re only getting sharper.” – Rapper Big Pooh

“Wish Me Well” ane “Glory Glory” are available on all major digital streaming platforms and stores. Stream/purchase them here.

All year-long, Little Brother has been celebrating the 20th anniversary of their debut album ‘The Listening’, starting with a four-city tour in March. On October 7, the year-long celebration will be brought back to its roots with “Made In Durham: A Little Brother Block Party“. Hosted by comedian Sam Jay, the event will be headlined by Little Brother, with supporting performances by Big KRIT, The Cool Kids, and Zo! & Tall Black Guy. DJs Hourglass and Wally Sparks will be on the ones and twos. The festivities kick off at Noon, and the performances will begin at 3PM. The event will take place at 310 East Main St, Durham, North Carolina 27701.

Watch the promo clip here.

Purchase tickets here.

Ranked among Rolling Stone’s “200 Greatest Hip-Hop Albums Of All Time“, The Listening helmed a pre-social media era where Alternative Rap found its audience through online message boards. As pioneers of “grown man” or “every man” Rap, Little Brother was rightfully placed among Billboard’s “Greatest Rap Groups Of All Time“. 

The group’s new documentary May The Lord Watch: The Little Brother Story will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year.

2. Little Brother – Glory Glory

3. Doechii – Pacer

Doechii releases the song and video for “Pacer” (Top Dawg Entertainment/Capitol Records).

The Tampa-born rapper and singer gave a taste of the song during Coachella in April, and fans have been clamoring for it ever since. In the song Doechii announces full throttle that she is a rock star. Stereogum says ‘Pacer’ is “a shouty maximalist anthem, and Saint 808’s production is full of in-the-red electronic streaks and overdriven rock guitars.”

After gaining 600 million plus global streams for “What It Is (Block Boy)” this spring, she followed with Int’l Players Anthem” freestyle “Universal Swamp Anthem,” and last month, Doechii came out with the clubby single “Booty Drop.” Earlier this month she popped up in Los Angeles opening for Beyonce, and this fall the self-proclaimed Swamp Princess hits that road with Doja Cat on her Scarlet Tour dates, beginning October 31 in San Francisco and running through November 24 in Doechii’s hometown of Tampa. 

Directed by Nikko Lamere, the video is loaded with intense visuals and set-ups. Doechii goes hard: Keep it on repeat. 

4. TA Thomas – Caught Between 2 Worlds

Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter TA Thomas today released his debut, solo EP, Caught Between 2 Worlds.

The full EP can be heard here.

The project is a metaphoric love letter to R&B and an emotional exploration of vulnerability, self-reflection, and growth. A musical fusion of classic and contemporary sounds reflects TA’s passion for the genre, and sees the self-taught singer channels his own experiences into a masterful study of relationship intricacies.

With previously released singles “June 15,” “W.I.A (Where I’m At), and “Pros and Cons,” the narrative oscillates between the POV of a man and his lover as they move into a gray area of love, temptation, complexity, passivity, and potentially, loss. 

5. Jean Dawson & SZA – NO SZNS

Undeniably one of today’s most groundbreaking artists, the enigmatic Jean Dawson releases his most audacious track to date, a striking duet titled “NO SZNS” featuring SZA. A beautiful union between two visionary artists, the track sees both artists capturing the large spectrum of profound emotions and revelations that come with growing up. Directed by Jean and his longtime collaborator, Bradley Calder, who recently directed SZA’s viral “Snooze” music video, this new visual depicts a coming of age story, chronicling the complexities of growing up – the beauty and darkness – and the visceral need to hold on the pure innocence that is only seen in childhood. The collaboration arrives hot on the heels of SZA’s only other two recent features including Drake’s “Slime You Out” and Travis Scott’s “TELEKINESIS”, a spectacular feat for the young Jean.

Jean’s journey is extraordinary and one that redefines The New American Dream. As both a Black and Mexican, Jean crossed the Mexican-American border every day as a kid to go to school in the US for a better life. With the world against him, Jean’s fierce perseverance and desire to produce moving art that honors the values he was raised on, he arrives today as a major force in the music arena with one of the biggest artists in the world featured on his original track, SZA. “NO SZNS” brings to the forefront the millions of youth on the margins around the globe who Jean continues to mirror through his art time after time because it’s all “for the kids like me,” professes Jean.

Additionally, Jean will be opening for the legendary band INTERPOL in Del Mar, CA on both October 25th and 26th and then at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles on October 25th. He will also be the direct support for Lil Yachty on his upcoming The Field Trip Tour throughout Europe that kicks off on November 22nd in Oslo and wraps on December 17th in Vienna.

6. Cel NoLackin – NoLackin Flow

Primed for a major breakthrough, buzzing rap phenom Cel NoLackin serves up a stunning and slick new music video for his latest single entitled “NoLackin Flow” out today via LLC4 Records/Capitol Records. 

On the track, a propulsive up-tempo groove sets the pace right out of the gate. Cel NoLackin weaves together rhymes with expert precision, poise, and passion. With uncontainable energy, his fiery flow practically explodes on impact. The accompanying visual only amplifies the vibe on-screen.

Ultimately, “NoLackin Flow” has all the makings of a signature anthem from Cel NoLackin.

He continues a recent hot streak as the song serves as a successor to the fan favorite “Told U,” which continues gaining traction. Of course, “Told U” landed in the wake of his fan favorite 2023 Youngest In Charge LP. Highlighted by features from Doe Boy and Trench Baby, it has just begun to pick up steam on DSPs. “Nuketown,” in particular, has maintained this momentum.

Cel NoLackin has delivered one anthem after another, including “NOLACKIN!,” “11:11” (prod. Southside), and “Bald Heads” (feat. Doe Boy). Beyond millions of views, he also received co-signs from EST Gee, Trench Baby, OG Three NBA, and many more.

Still, everything just bulldozes the way for more to come from Cel NoLackin.

7. BlakeIANA ft. Sexyy Red – Bing Bong (Remix)

Exploding out of “The Lou” as the city’s next artist to break, buzzing 23-year-old St. Louisan rapper BlakeIANA serves up a scorching Official Remix and music video of her viral banger “Bing Bong” featuring Sexyy Red today. By jumping on the track, fellow hometown hero Sexyy Red connects with BlakeIANA to represent for St. Louis in true form, fueling her momentum in the process.

Sexyy Red injects the track with racy and raw bars as BlakeIANA’s irresistible hook remains unshakable and her standout bar memorable as she says, “pulled a him on him, now he swear he can’t stand Bi**hes.” In the accompanying visual, Sexyy Red calls BlakeIANA and invites her to Las Vegas. The two are seen tearing up the Strip together in a Pink Hummer limousine. It stands out as St. Loui’s answer to The Hangover! Meets “country grammar.”

In other big news, Moneybagg Yo recently welcomed BlakeIANA to the stage during his sold-out show at Chaifetz Arena in St. Louis. The audience roared as she delivered an unforgettable performance of “Bing Bong.” Watch HERE!

Last year, she initially dropped “Bing Bong,” and it ignited a flurry of activity online. It generated millions of views on TikTok and nearly half-a-million total streams on Spotify. Among many ardent fans, she garnered support from none other than JT of City Girls who proceeded to rap along to “Bing Bong” on Instagram. The track illuminates her airtight flow, deft wordplay, and undeniable knack for a hook.

8. Rome Streetz ft. Joey Bada$$ – Fire At Ya Idle Mind

t’s been nearly a year since Rome Streetz released his breakthrough Griselda debut album, Kiss The Ring, which was widely hailed by fans as one of the trendsetting imprints’ best releases of 2022.  It was also a mainstay on critics’ end-of-year “Best Of” lists, including HotNewHipHop, HipHopWired, Okayplayer, Pitchfork and Rolling Stone. Rome was also included on the Rising Hip Hop Artists To Watch in 2023 by iHeartRadio and Buzzfeed and made his national debut TV Appearance on Jalen & Jacoby.   

If you couldn’t tell then that Rome was on the cusp of becoming one of the industry’s rising stars, the last eleven months have only aided in that claim.

Starting in February of this year, Rome released Wasn’t Built In A Day, with Big Ghost Ltd, which featured collaborations with Method Man and Conway The Machine.  Since then, his profile has continually risen by becoming a sought-after collaborative, and delivering scene-stealing guest appearances on Conway’s Drumwork Records album (“Elephant Man”), DJ Muggs Soul Assassins 3: Death Valley (“67 Keys” & “Skeleton Bones”) and most recently DJ Premier’s “Runway” single with Westside Gunn.  Rome will also have music included on EA Sports’ forthcoming 2KBeats soundtrack for NBA2K24.

Now, Rome is prepping his most ambitious project yet with the newest installment of his Noise Kandy series, Noise Kandy 5, and you can now stream the project’s second focus track “Fire At Ya Idle Mind,” featuring Joey Bada$$ which is now available at all DSP’s!

You know what they say about idle minds, they create chaos and stagnation; and as Rome and Joey prove with “Fire At Ya Idle Mind,” they have no time for lack of progress or engagement.

“This is a collab that fans have been asking for, for years” Rome acknowledges.  “I decided to make it happen, it was time.”

Rome Streetz’ Noise Kandy 5 will be released on 9-29-23 by Equity Distribution and features collaborations with Joey Bada$$, Curren$y, Boldy James, Rigz, Conductor Williams, Evidence & Wavy Da Ghawd.

Rome Streetz will also be headed overseas to support Noise Kandy 5, with ten European dates starting on 9-27-23 in Vienna Austria.  You can view the full tour routing here: https://tourlink.to/RomeStreetzEuroTour

9. Asha Imuno ft. Rizz Capolatti – DID I CALL AT A BAD TIME?

10. Dua Saleh – Daylight Falls

11. Rocca Varnado – Bluprint Roc

12. LOE Addé

LOE Addé releases a 2 song light pack entitled ‘Still Mapping.’ In these two particular songs, LOE demonstrates his role as both an outspoken and smooth talking artist.

The first song “If The Shoe Fits,” LOE is heard telling stories in what may be a part of his and others perspective and reality in a sarcastic and rhythmical manner.

The second song, “20 questions,” displays LOE asking 20 questions to a woman about what just so happens to address generic issues that one may encounter in a relationship. 

The EP previews a more extensive body of work later this year. LOE (Lyrically Over Expectations) has recently been on a notable press run lately with co-signs from Foggieraw, Femdot, Gabe the host of On The Radar, Ashoka, High Snobiety, Fashion Bomb Daily, One37PM’s Tyler Walsh, and Sprayground. 

The Nigerian bred and Brooklyn native emcee meshes wordplay and real life experiences to procure music for all audiences. ‘Still Mapping’ captures both of his arts perfectly and LOE’s talents are on full display cohesively.

13. Aliah Sheffield – I Don’t LIke People

Born in Newark, New Jersey, and raised in Savannah, Georgia, Aliah Sheffield finds beauty in the in-between, the welcoming space that surrounds her ruminations on love, life, and speaking truth to the world.  An avid reader and writer who trained on clarinet and saxophone, she transi­tioned to piano during her senior year of high school, when, she also started writing songs.  Her mother introduced Aliah to records by Nina Simone, Donny Hathaway, and Aretha Franklin, iconic artists who “spoke about depression, feel­ing mis­under­stood, racial inequality; they spoke about just problems in America.”  They exerted a strong influence on Aliah, as she says, “Songs can be about more than just, you know, love. You can really say something that matters.” 
 
After leaving Berklee College of Music in Boston, Aliah settled in New Jersey and began gigging with friends around the Tri-State Area.  She became a singer when she realized that if she wanted her words to be heard, she would have to sing them herself.  Working day jobs ranging from music tutor to security guard to cruise ship performer, she helped relaunch the historic Philly soul/R&B label Sound Gems after its decades-long dormancy with her 2014 single “Where I’m At (Is in Love with You).”
 
Focused on her writing as the isolation and chaos of the pandemic lockdown took hold, Aliah developed an online audience as she uploaded videos of herself singing original songs inspired by the minutiae of everyday life.  A move to Mexico resulted in her break­through song “Earth Is Ghetto,” whose viral success (over 1 million TikTok creates) prompted a move to Atlanta.  Learning how to produce songs there, Aliah released a collaborative album, Since You’ve Been Around (2021), with jazz/soul band Soul’d Out.  She signed with Def Jam the following summer, and relocated to Los Angeles in early 2023. 
 
Aliah has found her voice with the completion of THESE SONGS ARE FOR ANYONE SICK OF EARTH, her debut EP via Def Jam (June 2023), featuring “Boo Boo The Fool” and “Some Of Your People.”  After more than a decade of hard work, her story is proof that beyond the destination, there’s beauty in the journey – the in-between.  For Aliah Sheffield, a new journey is beginning. 

14. Torae & Marco Polo – Midnight Run

The wait is over… Torae and Marco Polo have released their 10-song collection, Midnight Run. 

The project takes fans on a trip filled with heavy-hitting beats and effortless flows. Their leading single “The Return,” featured on BET and more, gave fans a sneak peek of how the song was made on their respective ends in their “In The Lab” YouTube series.

The entire project engulfs listeners in the essence of New York grit and tenacity. The intro “Reloaded” sets the tone.. “The Return,” explains to listeners when Torae’s love for music started. He humbly expresses that he’s not some average Joe, but that he takes pride in making good music. “In 2009 we dropped the hardest shit you ever heard, real rap, spit facts in every word.”

Torae’s flow is unapologetically brash and his certainty is felt in his rhymes and metaphors. In the song “Oh No,” he conveys that he will always bet on himself when it comes to music, even when others doubt.

“When you see me, you see the real, rawness, empowerment, and lyrical skills,” Torae says in “Grey Sheep.” He talks about how he will last in the hip-hop industry because of lyricism. Torae breaks down the notion of rappers making fast money by recycling flows, but lacking the substance to last in the game. 

Producer Marco Polo does a commendable job creating beats that embody and complement Torae’s sound. The themes of dignity, empowerment, and self-motivation are found throughout the album. Midnight Run gives their listeners exactly what they have been waiting for. The album is out on all streaming platforms. Both of them can be found on Instagram @torae and @marcopolobeats 

15. Gaby Moreno – Solid Ground

Gaby Moreno remains a force to be reckoned with. The Latin Grammy-winning singer and songwriter received two Latin Grammy nominations for “Mejor Album Tropical Tradicional” and “Mejor Álbum de Música Infantil.” Additionally, Gaby delivered an electrifying performance at the legendary Dodger Stadium in celebration of Guatemalan Heritage Night Wednesday night (September 20). Honoring her treasured homeland of Guatemala, she performed the Guatemalan national anthem along with her critically acclaimed track “Luna de Xelajú” (the official track features beloved actor Oscar Isaac), an honorary anthem for Guatemala. The monumental feats arrive on the heels of her latest release, her thrilling new song “Solid Ground” and companion video via Cosmica Artists. It’s clear, Gaby’s deep impact on the musical landscape with her one-of-a-kind sound that straddles Latin, alternative, blues, folk and Americana in English and Spanish is more present than ever.

More to come from Gaby soon.

16. SAHXL – Come Thru

Emerging 20-year old Sydney, Australian based R&B singer/songwriter, SAHXL (pronounced Suh-heel) shares his debut EP COME THRU via Def Jam Recordings.

COME THRU channels SAHXL’s ability to effortlessly blend genres of melodic hip-hop, pop, and R&B while tapping into his vulnerable side. With refreshingly clever melodies, accessible love stories, and tales of a young man misunderstood, SAHXL’S debut serves as an invitation to the movement he’s building. Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, 20 year old SAHXL originally used singing and songwriting as the main way to make sense of his feelings and the changes he was experiencing. Now with music as a proven supplement for his own personal growth, SAHXL is dedicating his time to sharing music with his fans that they can relate to and feel his passion.

17. Samaria – Tight Rope

Rising R&B singer-songwriter Samaria is back with her new single “tight rope.” Directed by Nasser Boulaich (Lil Durk, Kenny Mason, Dominic Fike), the video showcases some of Samaria’s emotions and the journey that she goes through as she struggles with losing herself and finding her worth in herself instead of others.

With over 8.4 million streams worldwide, Samaria is a force to be reckoned with. Last year, she was featured in People’s 2022 winter “Emerging Artists” column. This came after her EP Didn’t Start With You, a project that showcases her refreshingly raw and vulnerable storytelling and voice. Alongside her EP, she supported the project with music videos “Out The Way” and “Still Got 4ever,” and was featured on the I Wanna Dance With Somebody Soundtrack. Recently, she wrapped up a sold-out North American tour opening up for British girl group FLO and had performed this past August at the Sol Blume Festival in Sacramento. 

Samaria’s latest release is only just the beginning of what she’s been working on. Stay tuned for more music coming soon as she continues to carefully craft a style of her own, with moments of vivid vulnerability and vocal velveteen. 

18. ElCamino ft. Inspectah Deck

ELCamino’s versatility sets him apart from his peers.  Lyrically, he is capable of painting bleak tales and violent escapades, but also deft at seamlessly shifting styles mid-verse to highlight his soulful and moody singing voice.  Both of these attributes create exhilarating musical highs. 

Those musical highs have created a runway for Camino to do his thing on numerous big stages over the last few years, as he added his versatility to a litany of high-profile projects, including; Boldy James & The Alchemist’s The Price Of Tea In China Deluxe (2020), Westside Gunn’s Shady Records Debut Who Made The Sunshine (2020), Jay Worthy & Harry Fraud’s Eat When You’re Hungry Sleep When You’re Tired (2020), Boldy James The Versace Tape (2020), Benny The Butcher’s Pyrex Picasso (2021) & Trust The Soprano’s (2021), Conway The Machine’s La Maquina (2021) & Griselda’s Conflicted Motion Picture Soundtrack (2021), and BSF’s Long Live DJ Shay album (2022) on which he was featured on two tracks.

Camino has had a long-standing affiliation with BSF and Griselda over the years, and he has been a frequent and valued contributor to both of the trend-setting crews.  Not long after the release of Long Live DJ Shay, Benny The Butcher announced that he had officially signed Elcamino to his BSF imprint.  Benny and Camino christened that announcement with the release of a joint single and video for, “80’s Bills,” which served as his first official BSF release.

Now, Elcamino has announced his first BSF album, They Spit On Jesus, which will be released on 10-6-23.  Along with the new album announcement, Camino also released the first single from the album, “Victory,” which also features Wu-Tang Clan’s legendary Inspectah Deck.  “Victory” is now available at all DSP’s. 

“Everyone wants to be great, but few take the time to learn how to become great” Elcamino acknowledges.  “I believe that greatness is achieved by learning from those who are already great.” 

Elcamino’s BSF debut album They Spit On Jesus will be released on October 6 via BSF Records. 

19. 070 Shake – Black Dress

070 Shake returns with “Black Dress,” her first solo single of 2023 and the first taste of her forthcoming album. She teased the song earlier this year while performing at festivals, which caused it to become an immediate fan favorite, who have been asking for the song ever since. The single, produced by longtime collaborator Dave Hamelin, is paired with the music, Shake reunites with her frequent music video collaborator, Noah Lee, (“Nice To Have“, “Skin and Bones“) to direct the song’s music video which is also out now.

“Black Dress” follows Shake’s collaboration with RAYE on the smash hit “Escapism,” which has been certified Platinum by the RIAA, hit #1 on the UK Singles Chart, peaked at #6 on Top 40 and became a TikTok sensation. To support that song, 070 Shake and RAYE performed “Escapism” live on The Late Night Show with Stephen Colbert in February. 070 Shake has currently been captivating audiences on her tour, where “Black Dress” has become very popular, while also performing as direct support to Coldplay on their world tour.

Since her debut in 2016, 070 Shake has firmly established herself as a truly one-of-a-kind artist. She defies categorization, effortlessly blending elements of hip-hop, electronic, and pop music to convey profound emotional messages through a distinctively futuristic lens. She stands alone as an artist who resists classification, with a sound that is entirely her own and unlike anything ever heard before, both in the past and the present.

Listen to “Black Dress” above, see upcoming live dates below, and stay tuned for more from 070 Shake coming soon.

20. Lil Migo – Detox

Gearing up for another era, buzzing Memphis phenomenon Lil Migo returns with a brand new single and music video entitled “Detox” out now via Heavy Camp | 4th & Broadway | Def Jam Recordings. It notably marks his first release of 2023. 

The track layers a haunting synth melody over a hypnotic beat as Lil Migo unleashes a flurry of fiery verses. He laces honest bars with raw emotion in a moment of reflection, “So many wounds and these scars, hoping I heal.” The accompanying visual reimagines childhood moments in black-and-white as he hustles in school, earns straight A’s, and gifts his mom flowers. In a voiceover, he narrates, “Shit even then, I knew I had to be a millionaire…I didn’t know music was gonna be my way out.” It cuts to present-day as he raps on the red carpet in front of a mansion. Ultimately, the clip tells a full circle story, ending with Lil Migo on top.

Last year, Lil Migo turned up on King Of The Trap 2 (Deluxe). Among many standouts, it boasted the fan favorite “Migo Shit” [feat. Quavo], which generated 2.4 million Spotify streams and 1.3 million YouTube views on the music video. Earning critical acclaim, XXL plugged it, and Hot 97 touted him on the “Who’s Next Playlist” and christened him “the rawest new voice of Memphis hip-hop.” It’s just the beginning though.

21. Breez Kennedy – Like My Ex

22. ASM Bopster – Up

23. DJ Premier – Beats That Collected Dust Vol. 3

If there was a Mount Rushmore for producers, DJ Premier would surely be one of the faces etched in stone upon it.  Over the last three+ decades, DJ Premier has cultivated an impeccable resume and has done so with a wide breadth of collaborators encompassing many different genres.  Undoubtedly, DJ Premier is a true innovator, one who has not only created timeless music, but one that has both shaped and moved the culture forward. 

In a career full of milestones, DJ Premier keeps adding new ones, as he was just nominated for a Latin Grammy Award for his collaboration (as a featured artist and producer) “Le Pido A Dios” with Feid and starred in a time-traveling, five-decade spanning commercial with Don Toliver which MTV used to segue-way into the recent VMA’s 50th Hip Hop Anniversary tribute performance. 

In 2008, Premier released the first volume of Beats That Collected Dust, which over the years has become a fan favorite due to the series’ personalized nature; these aren’t random instrumentals that are culled together, these are productions that DJ Premier produced specifically for other artists that ended up not being used.

Though it’s been over a decade (Beats That Collected Dust, Vol. 2 was released in 2011) since he released a volume, DJ Premier has now surprise released Beats That Collected Dust, Vol. 3, a brand new installment of beats; each one with its own unique origin story, from who they were initially produced for, to why they ended up collecting “dust.” 

“I like unique releases and Beats That Collected Dust is so unique.  I also love the process of titling a project.  I’ve always been responsible for titling all the projects I produce, and Beats That Collected Dust is so fitting” DJ Premier reveals.  “The format is an original tool, just like talk beds, freestyles, writing verses, and just plain listening.  I decide when to release these instrumental volumes when they reach the stage of collecting dust.  So here we are; Beats That Collected Dust, Vol. 3 is here and vinyl has arrived.”

These beats are dusty, but they still bang!

DJ Premier’s Beats That Collected Dust, Vol. 3 is now available via TTT Records.

24. Doja Cat – Scarlet

GRAMMY award-winning global superstar Doja Catreleases her new fourth studio album,“Scarlet”today via Kemosabe Records / RCA Records. In addition, Doja Cat dropped the music video for her new track off the album, “Agora Hills”. The music video was shot in Pomona, CA and Koreatown in Los Angeles, CA and directed by Hannah Lux Davis (Ariana Grande / Nicki Minaj) and Doja Cat. Throughout the week, a replica of “Scarlet” popped up at different locations across the U.S. just before the album dropped today  – check out images of the Scarlet’s replica HERE. At each location, there was a QR code for fans to use and get an exclusive first listen to Doja Cat’s new record.

Last month, Doja Cat released her official single and music video, “Paint The Town Red”, which hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart  and the Global 200 Chart last week. Currently, “Paint The Town Red” still remains #1 on the Global 200 Chart. This marks the first rap song to hit #1 on the Hot 100 this year. The song also made history by reaching No. 1 on Spotify’s Top 50 – USA chart; this is the first time in Spotify history that a rap song from a solo female artist has earned the top spot on the charts.

Last week Doja Cat performed at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards and won a VMA for Best Art Direction for her track, “Attention.” Earlier this month, Doja Cat dropped the song and music video for “Demons”. The music video was filmed in Los Angeles, CA and directed by Christian Breslauer (SZA/Chris Brown) and Doja Cat. Additionally, Doja Cat graced the cover of Harper’s Bazaar for the September 2023 issue “Icons issue.”

At the start of the summer, Doja announced her first North American headline tour, “The Scarlet Tour” beginning this fall with special guests Ice Spice and Doechii. 

25. Lindsey Lomis – Outta Sight (On My Mind)

Lindsey Lomis, 20-year-old singer, songwriter and artist  announced she will release “Outta Sight (On My Mind)” – the latest single created with long-time co-writers and collaborators Nicole “KOLE” Cohen and Ariza. 

This is Lomis’ first independent release following her breakout EPs Daydreaming and Universe, which generated millions of streams and caught the attention of artists including, Alessia Cara, Allen Stone and Justin Bieber, as well as musician and “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” star, Joshua Bassett, who she opened for on his first headlining tour. Lomis is currently on tour supporting Bruno Major’s Tour of Planet Earth tour with dates including Nashville’s Brooklyn Bowl, New York City’s Terminal 5 and Washington, D.C.’s The Howard Theatre.

“Outta Sight (On My Mind)” is a hook laden, funky pop masterpiece showcasing Lomis’ dexterous soulful vocal, intuitive musicality and candid sharp storytelling, which have already established her as one of the most singular rising stars creating candid and experimental pop music.

“Outta Sight (On My Mind)” explores the highs and lows of love, with lines like “you’re super glued to my subconscious, thinking ’bout you makes me nauseous” which will take anyone back to the physical impact of their first crush. On the track, Lomis bends genres and time signatures to her will. Her boundless, glassy vocals effortlessly glide, unbound by conventional intonation, soundtracked by pumping bass, 80s guitar riffs, and funky ear worm hooks.

Lindsey on the single: “‘Outta Sight (On My Mind)’ is about being infatuated with someone who doesn’t live in the same place as you. A long distance fling that you’re constantly thinking about, distracting you from your everyday life. The song itself feels like the rush of dopamine you get from finally being with your crush.”

Lomis landed a record deal with Warner Records in her early teens after she was signed by A&R / production legend, the late great Busbee and released a series of EPs including 2022’s Daydreaming and most recently, Universe, which achieved considerable critical acclaim with support from Teen Vogue to American Songwriter. Recent tours with the likes of Joshua Bassett, The Brook & The Bluff, and JoJo have introduced her to a whole new audience of fans, and her own recent headline run of sold out club shows feels like you’re watching a superstar on a stadium stage. Fans have quickly been drawn to her unique take on folk, rock, and jazz, which she elegantly blends into extraordinary modern pop, and their wait is over for this whole new era of Lindsey Lomis.

26. Jesse Boykins III

Alternative R&B artist / songwriter / producer Jesse Boykins III releases collaborating with fellow GRAMMY-nominated songwriter/producer Wynne Bennet (Janelle Monae, HAIM, Talya Parx, Tank and the Bangas) and NAZ(KYLE, Smino, J.Cole), Boykins yet again delivers an unforgettable sonic experience. “Go With The Feeling” is a hypnotic song from his upcoming New Growth album that transports listeners into a world of dancehall, rhythmic enchantment and soulful exploration.

Boykins took a hiatus from music after the release of his acclaimed 2017 album ‘Bartholomew’ (Def Jam) and founded a “Creative Sanctuary Agency” named New Growth Creative Activities. This endeavor is an incubator for his artistic pursuits: including creative directing Masego’s self-titled album and crafting a “A Love Letter To Black Women” with actor Keith Powers for BUMBLE. In addition, Boykins collaborated with artists including  Charlie Puth, Calvin Harris, Kilo Kish, and earned a GRAMMY nomination for co-writing Steve Lacy’s single “Playground”. 

 The Chicago-born, LA-based independent artist reemerged in 2023 with a surprise new single “No Love Without You“. With subsequent releases “Kind And Nasty“, “No Pussy For Losers,”and “Honestly I’m A Threat”, Boykins has set the stage for his musical homecoming, New Growth, due out October 20^th (stream available).

27. Elmiene – Marking My Time

Elmiene announces his upcoming EP, Marking My Time, which is due October 20th via Def Jam Recordings/Polydor. Alongside the announcement, he shares the tracklist details as well as the EP’s title track “Marking My Time,” which was written with Jamie Woon and James Vincent McMorrow.
 
Marking My Time includes the recently-released singles “Mad At Fire” and “Mama” and follows his impressive debut EP El-Mean that was released independently this past spring, which was praised by Line Of Best Fit stating Elmiene as “one of the year’s most exciting forward-thinking R&B talents.” On Marking My Time, listeners will find the British artist building on his signature sound that “glazes over you like a sunny autumn afternoon,” as noted by Ebony recently. In making the EP, Elmiene worked with innovators like DJ Dahi, Jim-E Stack, Sampha, Syd, Courage, Lil Silva, and more.
 
Speaking on his new body of work Elmiene says, “The general theme of this project is trying to mark my time not in terms of history but just for me personally, so I don’t get lost. Almost making a checkpoint to anchor myself. Even sonically it’s like I’m marking my stamp that I put on things. Because I’m so deep in looking back behind me, I always found myself stumbling over what’s gonna happen next. So when my life started speeding up massively, I had to learn how to keep an eye on both sides – appreciating the past in order to do the future the right way and do it justice.”
 
Despite having only released a handful of songs, the 21-year-old, Oxford-based artist has already made waves in the music scene. His 2021 track “Golden” went viral after Benji B handpicked it to soundtrack Virgil Abloh’s final Louis Vuitton show. He was invited again by Benji to perform alongside Robert Glasper and Yasiin Bey for Louis Vuitton in Paris, Elmiene’s first live show ever. Since then, he has appeared on critically acclaimed albums by Stormzy and Lil Silva, performed at Glastonbury, along with making his TV debut performing “Marking My Time” for the first time on Later… With Jools Holland. Already known for his captivating live performances, Elmiene tickets continue to stay in high demand. This year alone, he has sold out two dates at Ellen’s Bar at Koko, then followed with a third headline show at Hoxton Hall. This fall, he will also be launching his North American tour with stops in Toronto, New York City and Los Angeles, as well as two more headlining shows in London and Oxford.
 
The allure of his live sets is clear from his COLORS appearance, where he played an unplugged version of fan favorite “Endless No Mores”. The platform likened his blend of soothing vocals and poetic songwriting with “the magic of D’Angelo mixed with Sampha.” Recently, Vogue described him as “set to take over in 2023”, Benji B nominated him to appear in GQ’s “your favourite artists favourite artist”, Pigeons & Planes included him on their “best new artists” list, and Crack declared “Elmiene is preparing for the next chapter.”
 
Listen to “Marking My Time” above, find tour details below with tickets available here. Stay tuned for more from Elmiene soon.

28. Nick Grant – Sunday Dinner

one of South Carolina’s most exciting rising talents, Nick Grant, released his highly anticipated album, Sunday Dinner (Infinity / Virgin Music / Universal). With a track record of heavy hitting lyrics and ability to tell a story, Grant’s latest album showcases a rich tapestry of people and life experiences that have been woven into what is a truly memorable new album. The full album is available to stream across platforms, here. 

Sunday Dinner offers a collection of personal events that happened throughout Nick’s upbringing in South Carolina. Raised by his grandmother and the community around him, one of the requirements for being in her household was to attend church every Sunday. Every Sunday after the entire family would gather at his grandmother’s house – where he would see different examples of people that would dramatically impact his life, worldview, and the person he would eventually become. From various cousins who both attended college and others who did not; a mother who was on drugs; father who was in and out of his life; and things that went on in the projects. 

As one of hip-hops most exciting and well respected tour de forces, Grant has made a name for himself as the rapper’s favorite rapper with co-signs from legendary artists like Nas, Andre 3000,and more. Last month he released the single “Catch This Fade” which perfectly personifies Nick’s meaningful verses. Fans can look forward to more from the wordsmith with the quintessential soundtrack for night drives, hanging with friends, self-reflection, a night out and nearly anywhere in between with Sunday Dinner. 

29. RJAE – Her Favorite Jhené Aiko Song

New Orleans R&B singer-songwriter, RJAE has dropped the music video for his hit single, “Her Favorite Jhene Aiko Song” with a network premiere on BET Soul & BET Jams.

Teased earlier this week on RJAE’s Instagram page, the visual directed by Sadat opens to RJAE in an empty studio rewatching VHS footage of his former lover as he sings, reminiscing on the times they shared. Ultimately, RJAE is consumed by his thoughts as he’s had no closure and drives feverishly to his love interest apartment while trying to call her. As he arrives, he’s met with the icy heartless eyes, who has clearly moved on. The visual ends with a flashback of all the events played out in the music video to RJAE waking up with the answer he needed to find closure.

The emotional track continues to showcase RJAE’s lyrical depth and explores more deeply his vocal range which can also be heard in his recent freestyle cover of Jhene Aiko’s “W.A.Y.S.” RJAE explains his songwriting process during his On The Radar interview saying “A lot of the times when I make music and I want people to hear it, like this song is something I wanted her to hear, I’m low key throwing shots at her, I knew she would go to it and that’s just me being toxic.”

The new music video release arrives off the heels of RJAE’s recent album debut as a new Roc Nation signee titled You’re The Problem. The album features breakout summertime love anthem, “Remember That” with A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and “Too Gone” featuring NBA YoungBoy. RJAE taps into raw and unfiltered emotions and embarks on a journey of self-reflection in healing in this project through his crafty lyricism and unique flow.

 “This project has really been about reflecting on my relationships, romantic and personal, and coming to terms with the fact that I am the problem, hence the title of the project. I’m on a journey of healing and being a better version of myself not just for me but for everyone in my life” RJAE said about the project.

 RJAE also collaborated alongside his fellow Roc Nation artists to deliver the recently released Humble Soles Mixtape project in celebration of Hip Hop’s 50th Anniversary. RJAE delivers powerful performances vocally and visually in Tale of 2 Legends, Takeover, Cypher as seen on Bars on I-95, and subtle mentions during his On The Radar Freestyle.

30. Genia – Souvenirs

Genia, the uncategorizable 22 year-old singer-rapper and fierce R&B phenom from the streets of Victorville, California, continues to defy characterization with “Souvenir,” the scorching new single + video available on all platforms today via Def Jam Recordings.  “Souvenir” is the first advance music from 4AM IN THE VILLE, Genia’s upcoming new mixtape set to arrive on November 10^th.  (Track listing and release details to be announced in the weeks ahead.)
 
4AM IN THE VILLE is positioned as the follow-up to 4PM IN THE VILLE, Genia’s debut mixtape released June 23^rd.  Included on the mix was “Introducing,” her aptly-titled smash debut single + video of early 2023, in which she found her groove, hitting #1 on the Soundcloud New and Hot: R&B Charts.  Five different versions of “Introducing” were issued in February – A Capella, Sped Up, Slowed Down, and an instrumental outside of the original.  Genia also revealed a new music video treatment of the single.  
 
4PM IN THE VILLE also included “Jaded,” an emotionally charged confession (“Ask me how I feel/ I’m’a say I’m jaded”), released in May.  Genia rode out again for the underdogs in June, on “False Prophet”:
 

“You don’t care if I’m hurting
These scars deep within
And you left me deserted
And I can’t forgive
I got so many questions
That went unanswered
But you’ll never be able to take what you don’t give”
– Genia, “False Prophet”

 In the run-up to the arrival of 4PM IN THE VILLE, Genia filmed live performance “garage band” versions of “False Prophet” at home in Victorville, along with covers of classics including Roberta Flack’s “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” Janet Jackson’s “Let’s Wait Awhile,” and so on.  Fans were invited to view Genia opening up for fellow Def Jam artist Coco Jones live at Echoplex in Los Angeles HERE.
 
Another gift to fans was a stunning cover of Fleet­wood Mac’s “Dreams.”  Genia added a touch of her own magic to the original, infusing the performance with a certain grit and spirit as the warm guitar tones were plucked on a Fender Strat.  Global Grind touted the track on its “New Music Roundup.”

Genia has spent a lifetime using music as a form of therapy.  “I feel like I make music for everybody,” she says. “But mainly for women to feel badass. I wanna feel like I have the power. I wanna feel like I’m that bitch. That was kind of my thing: to make bad bitch music, but also to make vulnerable music, almost like somebody’s read­ing my diary. If only one person finds peace in my music then I know I’ve done my job.”

31. Teejay – Drift

Teejay, the rising dancehall star hailing from Montego Bay, Jamaica, has had a whirlwind of success with his latest single “Drift.” The massive banger, produced by Panda/DJ Mac/Topbraff Music, has been dubbed the song of summer and is turning into the anthem of 2023 as the momentum continues to build. 

Everyone from Burna Boy to Cardi B and Offset has been seen dancing to his explosive viral TikTok hit. Last week “Drift” was the #1 Most Shazamed Song in NYC and DJ Funkmaster Flex summoned Teejay to the Madison Square Garden’s stage to perform his anthem in front of a sold-out 20,000+ crowd for Hot 97 & WBLS Hip Hop Forever Concert in Manhattan this past Friday (Sept 15) night. (Watch clip).  

Today, Teejay drops a new visualizer for “Drift” directed by Jedi Productions. This eye-catching spectacle highlights Jamaica’s underground Drift car competitions and bike culture. The pastime has exploded into a form of motorsport for adrenaline junkies from Japan to the United States and has quickly become one of Jamaica’s fastest growing hobbies.  

This new visual follows Teejay’s official music video for “Drift,” which has surpassed over 10m+ views since its release at the start of summer. Currently, the song has raked in 113 million + TikTok views for its popular dance and has received more than 27 million + global streams. It can be heard bumping through the cars and clubs from Kingston to Miami to NYC to London to Lagos and any Caribbean diaspora in between.

Speaking on the virality of “Drift,” Teejay explains he stepped out of his comfort zone to pen the buzzing dancehall single, “You know, it’s pretty simple to explain. It’s not that lyrical because I realized people only want a melody and something to dance to nowadays. I got the beat from Panda the Producer and wrote it in less than an hour.”

In June 2023, Teejay signed to Warner Records and is slated to drop his debut EP I Am Chippy later this year, executive produced by multi-platinum Jamaican artist Shaggy. The Grammy-winning “Boombastic” icon is a major player in his corner. He featured Teejay on his most recent single “Gyal Dem Time,” and the two performed the track at 2023 BET Awards (watch) over the summer. 

Born Timoy Janeyo Jones, known as Teejay aka Up Top Boss, the 28-year-old dancehall artist hails from Jamaica. “Chippy” was his childhood nickname and his forthcoming EP I Am Chippy is Teejay’s version of an authentic rags to riches story, encapsulating his upbringing in the St. James garrison of Montego Bay, Jamaica. From creating songs from his and his three brothers’ makeshift studio at their board house to taking over international stages as one of the baddest dancehall artists in the game, Teejay has come a long way and is primed and ready to showcase his talent and versatility to the world. 

32. Maiya The Don – Body

Burgeoning Brooklyn-based rapper and beauty and social aficionado, Maiya The Donis back with “Body,” an infectious and seductive track sampling the Queen of Pop, Mariah Carey’s hit song “Touch My Body.” 

Exhibiting her beloved and flawless cadence, The Don demonstrates she’s here to take over with her nimble and confident lyricism. 

Starting today, listeners can also pre-save her mixtape Hot Commodity, due out October 6th. The project encapsulates The MC’s bold, braggadocious, and bouncy persona as she rhymes us bar for bar through her growth and experiences as she delves into the music industry, her new playground for expression. PRE-SAVE MIXTAPE HERE.

“Body” is a follow up to her track “Luv U Better” featuring Shawny Binladen –where Siddiq Saunderson (Hulu’s Wu-Tang: An American Saga) made a cameo in the official music video. Sampling Mary J. Blige’s 90s hit track, “I Can Love You” featuring Lil’ Kim, “Luv U Better,” and “Body” both shed light on the era and sonics influencing the New York Native. A temporality Maiya continues in dialogue with across her 11-track mixtape, Hot Commodity. 

You can catch Maiya The Don performing on Flo Milli’s ‘Thanks for Coming Here, Ho’ Fall 2023 tour, across all dates, kicking off October 21st in San Francisco, CA at The Regency Ballroom. Tickets available HERE.