R&B songstressAqyila uplifts and inspires audiences with her highly anticipated EP, ‘For The Better,’ out today via Sony Music Canada. This latest musical offering showcases Aqyila’s profound journey of self-discovery and personal growth throughout the project. With standout tracks like the previously unveiled “Hello,” a compelling anthem of new beginnings and relinquishing the past, and the captivating “We Keep On,” which narrates the journey leading up to that transformative moment, Aqyila’s musical repertoire leaves a lasting impression.
Records like the previously released tracks “OH!,” “Vibe For Me (Bob for Me),” and “Pressure,” have already proven to be fan favorites and have received great responses – and this project is no different.
The enchanting focus track, “We Keep On,” delves into the repetitive nature of everyday life, where conversations become mundane and words seem to lose their significance. Aqyila eloquently expresses the desire for change, acknowledging the repetition of empty promises.
With introspective lyrics such as “I could do for me what you wouldn’t do” and “Should’ve seen it coming, why you looking so confused,” the song gracefully captures the emotions of feeling lost and bewildered. Through poignant verses, Aqyila conveys the frustration and inner turmoil that accompanies confusion, creating a heartfelt and relatable musical experience.
Throughout the EP, Aqyila’s remarkable vocals effortlessly intertwine with enlightening rhythms and harmonies, creating a resonating masterpiece that transcends genres. While songs like “Hello” encapsulate the artist’s fearlessness in sharing her path to self-acceptance and peace of mind, her unapologetic approach to self-discovery resonates with listeners, emphasizing the significance of leaving the past behind and embracing a future filled with positivity.
Memphis rapper A.R. The Mermaid is making waves in the music industry with her infectious personality, unique vision, and undeniable talent. Her latest offering, “Sneaky Link,” showcases her prowess as an artist and marks her highly anticipated debut under the renowned label, 300 Entertainment. With an accompanying music video that brings the lyrics to life, A.R. The Mermaid is ready to captivate audiences with her colorful and captivating presence.
“Sneaky Link” introduces itself with a distinctive blend of quirky whistling and a bouncing bass line, complemented by sizzling hi-hats. Against this vibrant backdrop, A.R. The Mermaid delivers hilarious and relatable bars, expressing her frustration with a partner who can’t keep a secret. Her lyrics resonate with listeners who have experienced similar situations, adding a touch of humor to the track’s infectious energy.
The accompanying music video takes viewers on a visual journey, effectively translating the song’s essence into captivating visuals. A.R. The Mermaid is depicted navigating a precarious situation as she sneaks out of a mid-morning encounter, narrowly avoiding detection. Her outsized energy practically leaps off the screen, drawing viewers into her world. Each set piece showcases her quirky fashion sense and scorching style, further enhancing the video’s vibrancy.
A.R. The Mermaid’s undeniable talent, magnetic personality, and visionary approach to her craft have propelled her to the forefront of the rap game. With “Sneaky Link,” she not only solidifies her status as an artist to watch but also demonstrates her ability to deliver infectious hooks and clever wordplay. This debut release under 300 Entertainment serves as a testament to her immense potential and promises an exciting future ahead.
As A.R. The Mermaid continues to make her mark in the music industry, her unique style and captivating presence are sure to leave a lasting impression on fans and critics alike. With her debut single and music video, she invites listeners to join her on an exhilarating musical journey filled with humor, relatability, and undeniable talent. The release of “Sneaky Link” is just the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary career for this rising star in the rap scene.
Swifty Blue’s latest EP showcases his exceptional talent and ability to deliver modern Hip Hop with a unique flair. The EP features three scorching tracks that are sure to captivate listeners. What sets this release apart is the exciting collaboration with acclaimed artists Mozzy and That Mexican OT, adding an extra layer of depth and diversity to Swifty’s already impressive repertoire.
Not only does Swifty Blue make waves in the music industry, but he also remains a pillar of strength and inspiration for his community in Paramount. In his latest release, he delves into the personal struggles of deportation, a topic close to his heart as it directly affected his beloved sister. Through his music, Swifty fearlessly addresses the challenges that arise on life’s journey, offering a ray of hope and motivation to his listeners. His uplifting messages serve as a testament to the power of resilience and self-motivation, encouraging others to persevere and overcome obstacles along their own paths.
Swifty Blue’s EP not only showcases his artistic growth and versatility, but it also demonstrates his commitment to using his platform for positive change. By addressing pressing issues and sharing personal experiences, Swifty connects with his audience on a deeper level, fostering empathy and understanding. As an artist, he continues to push boundaries, break barriers, and inspire others through his music. With each release, Swifty Blue solidifies his position as an influential figure in the Hip Hop scene, leaving an indelible mark on both his listeners and the industry as a whole.
RIAA Certified Double-Platinum Baltimore artist Shordie Shordie has just shared a new music video for “Reservation”, off of his new conceptual project A Life For Two. Watch the video for “Reservation”HERE and stream A Life For TwoHERE on Warner Records.
In the new video, Shordie Shordie passionately performs the album cut while out on a moody sushi date with his love interest – “Don’t wanna waste no time, I got here way too late / Excuse for what I’m saying, I’m high off you today / Make out a reservation, I got a place to be”, he sings in the hook. Serving as the second track of his new project, A Life For Two, “Reservation” reflects the beginning of the relationship that unfolds across the remainder of the project. As Shordie Shordie uses each subsequent track to advance the Romeo & Juliet-adjacent narrative, his uniquely melodic sound, bright charisma and raw storytelling abilities are on full display.
Following his 2022 release, More Than Music, Pt. 2, the sequel to his 2020 effort, >Music (More Than Music), and his first ever sold-out headlining ‘On The Block’ tour, Shordie Shordie’s new project, A Life For Two, expands upon the detailed and dynamic songwriting fans have come to expect from the DMV standout. His refined aesthetic and unique approach to storytelling has netted Shordie Shordie over 1.5 billion streams as well as cosigns from heavyweight artists such as Wiz Khalifa, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, Offset, and Rich Homie Quan as well as critical acclaim from the likes of Pitchfork, XXL, The FADER, COMPLEX, HotNewHipHop, The Washington Post, and many more.
Los Angeles-based artist Tomi Tribe (@tomitribe) has teamed up with Atlanta-based musician Toyé to create a hot new summer hit called “NI NIGERIA.” This Afro-piano vibe track is guaranteed to keep the dance floor on fire.
Recorded during the December period at Tomi Tribe’s music camp in Lagos, Nigeria, the song was born out of a chance meeting with Toyé. After sorting through some beats from Dante Beats, Tomi Tribe was struck by one particular beat, and knew he had to produce something around it. Toyé loved the beat and wanted to record, and after vibing together on the record, they quickly put it down on wax. It took a few days to fully flesh out the lyrics, but eventually the final version was recorded, and the rest was history.
Back in Los Angeles, Tomi Tribe knew that “NI NIGERIA” was one of the standout tracks produced while in Lagos, and felt compelled to get it out to the world. After a month of mixing, mastering, and brainstorming ideas for a release, they decided to return to Lagos to share it with the world.
The track is an ode to Nigeria, paying homage to the country’s culture and spirit. It also sends a clear message to anyone who would mess with the artists in Nigeria: “Don’t mess with me in this Nigeria”.
“NI NIGERIA” is available for streaming now. Don’t miss out on this summer banger!
As “Favorite Song” jumps into the top 10 of theBillboard Hot 100 and achieves Platinum certification, Toosii drops a striking new version of the track – “Favorite Song” (feat. Future) [Toxic Version]. In the powerful new first verse, chart-topping, GRAMMY®-winning superstar Future takes the stage. Looking into the crowd, he’s hit by memories that unleash a flood of feelings for a past love. Listen to “Favorite Song” (feat. Future) [Toxic Version] HERE.
The new version of “Favorite Song” will be included on Toosii’s debut album, NAUJOUR, along with the original version of the song and “Favorite Song” (with Khalid) [Remix]. See below for the album’s full track listing, which Toosii revealed earlier this week. Set for June 2 release by South Coast Music Group/Capitol Records, NAUJOUR is available for pre-order / pre-saveHERE. Toosii will kick off a U.S. headline tour in support of the album on July 26. See below for itinerary. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.
Toosii will take the stage to perform “Favorite Song” during the two-hour live season finale of Season 23 of NBC’s four-time Emmy Award-winning competition series “The Voice” on Tuesday, May 23 (9-11 p.m. ET/PT). CeeLo Green, Diplo & Lily Rose, Maroon 5 will also perform that evening.
“Favorite Song,” which was named by Billboardas an early contender for “Song of the Summer 2023,” is Toosii’s first top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, climbing to No. 8* this week. The track is a top 5 smash at rhythm radio, topped the Billboard Rap Streaming Songs & Billboard Hot Rap Songs charts and entered the top 5 of Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs tally. Combined global streams of “Favorite Song” have surpassed 260 million while the audio has been featured in over five million global TikTok creations, earning more than three billion combined views. Watch Toosii performing “Favorite Song” on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” HERE.
Born Nau’Jour Lazier Grainger in Syracuse, NY, Toosii tells jarringly honest tales of street life and lost love, detailing his journey from a lost kid surrounded by tragedy to a national sensation full of promise. Now based in Raleigh, NC, the 23-year-old was hailed by Complex as “One of music’s brightest stars” and Teen Voguesaid, “if you’re not in his orbit yet, you need to tap in.” Ebony noted, “[Toosii] shows a vulnerability in his music which he embraces wholeheartedly.”
Future went from cooking up beats in a basement for the Dungeon Family to generational superstardom with a presence looming from the streets all the way to The Met Gala. He literally brought trap into the White House as President Barack Obama rapped along to his 4x Platinum banger “Jumpman” (with Drake). He has collected dozens of multi-Platinum certifications and achieved Diamond status for 2020’s “Life Is Good” (feat. Drake), affirming him as one of the best-selling acts of all time. In 2019, he earned a GRAMMY® Award for Best Rap Performance for “King’s Dead” alongside Jay Rock, Kendrick Lamar, and James Blake. Speaking to his dominance, Billboardchristened Future as its 2022 “Hip-Hop Power Player of the Year.”His ninth full-length album, I Never Liked You. marked his eighth No. 1 album on the Billboard200and contained the 3x Platinum “WAIT FOR U” (ft Drake and Tems), which won a GRAMMY for Best Melodic Rap Performance earlier this year.
RemixdMag’s best new songs this week directly address individuals who always have something negative to say. From eLVy The God’s “Most Hated” to LightSkinKeisha’s “A$$ ON ME,” this list will show them that you’ll always remain unfazed by their actions.
Dabbling a whirl of bars in an interpolation of Brandy and Monica’s “The Boy Is Mine,” Lil Tecca plays on the theme of appreciation by admiring a lady who “gets by easy.”
Layered with Lil Tecca’s trademarked melodic technique and plush afrobeat R&B elements, “Need Me” shows what it means to be a man of your word. As he aims for the opps jugular with a line of not-so-light threats, vercetti/romani spits, “Eye for an eye, I could treat you how you treat me/Lie for a lie, I could show you it get beasty.” Similarly, the TEC highlight explores a stronger side of loyalty between these two twin flames. Lines like “she said she don’t need you, she said that she need me,” prove that they’re truly meant to be. TEC will allegedly drop later this year.
SoFaygo – “YE“
Opening the record with “wake up get cake, all work, no breaks,” SoFaygo’s intergalactic trap banger affirms what it means to be a go-getter. He compares this attribute and having an eye for fashion to the innovative wordsmith Kanye West, a.k.a Ye. He also pays homage to other notable figures when spitting, “And I rock this shit out, man I feel like Cobain (Fuck, fuck)/And I’m kicking my shit, Liu Kang.” As the song progresses, SoFaygo glides on the beat with flex-worthy rhymes about his whips, chips, and more. “YE” is one of the many focus tracks found on his upcoming project, GO+.
eLVy The God – “Most Hated“
Asserting that he will “take over like COVID-19,” eLVY The God illustrates his plans of domination in “Most Hated.” Over an experimental Western-styled hip-hop beat, the Chicago rapper thundershocks his opps with tough talk, alluding that “when we made it rain, they all got hit with lightning.” eLVy The God’s ultra-confidence is elevated by his greatest accomplishments and luxurious lifestyle.
LightSkinKeisha – “A$$ ON ME”
LightSkinKeisha’s derrière gets a standing ovation from a group of outsiders in her latest playful hip-hop song, “A$$ ON ME.” Making it clear that these other women can’t be close to who she is, the rapstress flexes about the results of her hard work. Similarly, she expresses how she never settles for less, saying “if he broke, I curve him.” The finishing touch to “A$$ ON ME” is its catchy hook. The short instance encourages listeners to shake it like a salt shaker.
Chxrry22 – Worlds Away
Chxrry 22’s “Worlds Away” is about being far from that special someone and loving each other without an inch’s difference. Blending rich elements of bedroom R&B and Jersey Club with hypnotical singing, the record describes the more complicated side of a long distance relationship. Proximity becomes a rift in their dynamic, causing the two to suddenly be “Worlds Away.” But, unfortunately, her efforts to navigate through hard times are met with dead ends. Chxrry 22 shared with Rated R&B, “I’ve been in a long-distance relationship for the last year. As badly as you want something to work, factors like distance and time come into play. But, just because this is a sad situation it doesn’t mean the music has to be.”
Emika Love -” Bad Day, Not Bad Life“
Emika Love’s “Bad Day, Not Bad Life” is the perfect pick-me-up to a gutting 24 hours. Embellished with an 80’s R&B aesthetic, cheery pop, and Afrobeat bits, the record alleviates the worry or distress of being down in the dumps. Additionally, the California artist illustrates actions others can take to create their own happiness. This encouragement comes out through Emika’s buttery raps and stand-out vocals. With powerful statements like “Listen to the message, not the sound,”Emika Love’s new single will get anyone out of a funk. The music “showcases her main themes of unity, spreading love, and appreciating all aspects of life.”
Today, NYC’s pithy wordsmith 4KPHIL. releases his new single “Johnson & Johnson,” solidifying the poet turned rapper’s place as the next left-of-center emcee. Following a near death experience after being the victim of a shooting, 4KPHIL.’s perspective on life was forever changed; he decided that life was too short to not make music that made people feel. “Johnson & Johnson” is an ode to becoming a new father – the rising artist recently welcomed his first child into the world. The self-produced, written and recorded track was made in 4KPHIL.’s home studio off the famous Dyckman street in upper Manhattan. Each verse attests to his authentic storytelling abilities, as his commanding bars float over the atmospheric production. 4KPHIL.’s lyricism is refreshing – with one listen, it’s clear that he doesn’t seek the limelight. Instead, he makes music that paints the soundtrack to his own life, providing listeners with vivid snapshots of life’s wins as well as his experiences navigating its trials and tribulations.
“I’m feeling like HOVA, the blueprint is mapped,” he raps swiftly on the brand new track, as he furthers his message by explaining, “You are the only one who can decide your destiny. You may have a little, but you can turn a little into a lot.”
“I grew up singing in the church, but started rapping when I was 16,” says 4KPHIL. “As the son of two immigrants who moved to the states as teenagers in search of a better life, it was hard for them to see a tangible career path for me when it came to pursuing music. So, I went to school, got a degree and got a corporate job – but I wasn’t happy. I decided it was time to leave that life behind and chase my dreams. When I grow old and gray, I want my son to be able to listen to my music and understand what life looked like when I was 26 years old and what it felt like to become a father for the first time. My son is my biggest inspiration, and I want him to know he can do anything he sets his mind to.”
“Johnson & Johnson” adds to the growing collection of 4KPHIL.’s diverse discography, which includes highly praised single “Young Picasso” which was selected by SoundCloud to be featured in the NBA2K22 Official In-Game-Soundtrack (read about it here in The Source). Fans pour in from all boroughs to attend his captivating live performances at iconic venues including SOB’s, Brooklyn Music Kitchen, The Meadows and more. Be on the lookout for more from the rising act as he continues to craft his story and rise to the top through his unmatched work-ethic, cold, calculated rhymes and vibrant self-production.
A city like Pittsburgh doesn’t necessarily have a signature sound that people can easily recognize. It especially doesn’t help they are sharing the same state as Philadelphia, which has just an insane musical history. I say all of this to say, even a mainstream superstar like Wiz Khalifa still didn’t put Pittsburgh on the map, but all of that could change in 2023. Pittsburgh lyricist, LOTSCAST could potentially be the musical savior that the “Iron City” desperately needs.
“Its truly a spectrum. It’s a blend of various types and genres of music, something that I think will catch a lot of people off-guard. I’m hoping it does just that.” – LOTSCAST on his musical style
Once you get a taste of his music, and let his lyrics resonate with you, you’ll understand why I have this faith in his abilities. Off his lyricism alone, you will easily be able to tell that he thinks differently and it’s far from surface level. His newest single, “Proper Tings” shows that the rising rapper knows how to make a bold statement and back it up with his music.
Produced by Parker Jazz, the production on this track is just so silky smooth and groovy. And I just love the way that LOTSCAST rides the beat with no fear. He understands that dope lyricism isn’t always having the most complex bars but just knowing to say the right things in the moment and not kill the vibe. LOTSCAST mentions the UK and the great things it has to offer, what better way to support his claim, than a verse from an actual UK rapper? Kae Kuzi hops in and drops off a surprisingly impressive verse resulting in a unique clash of cultures. Regardless of the fact they’re from two vastly different cultures, they somehow make it work.
Hailing from the east side of the low end in Gary, Indiana, artist Blizz, born Paul Hyde, is making waves in the music industry with his distinctive sound and powerful storytelling. Currently based in Gary while frequently traveling between Los Angeles and Atlanta, Blizz has crafted a unique musical identity that combines a metaphoric trap vibe with a captivating Midwest flow.
Blizz’s journey in music began at an early age, with a deep-rooted love for the art form. The emotional connection he feels when music plays is unparalleled, and it serves as a constant inspiration for his craft. Drawing from his own life experiences, which include surviving a gunshot wound and navigating through various relationships, Blizz channels his trials and tribulations into his music, creating a raw and relatable narrative.
When asked about his biggest influence, Blizz credits the legendary Snoop Dogg, recalling the impact of watching Snoop’s iconic “Gin and Juice” music video. The gangster persona of 2Pac also left a lasting impression, while the unique styles of artists like The Notorious B.I.G. and Lil Wayne further shaped his musical taste. Additionally, artists such as Yo Gotti, Lil Durk, and Drake play a significant role in inspiring Blizz’s artistry.
Currently, Blizz is focused on promoting his latest project, titled “Iced Out.” The inspiration for this project stemmed from his collaborations with Grammy-nominated artists Freddie Gibbs and the esteemed producer honorable C Note, known for his work with 2 Chainz, Gucci Mane, and Ne-Yo, among others. Recognizing the potential of his music, Blizz decided it was time to push his artistry to new heights.
Blizz released “Iced Out” on 2/19/23, a significant date known as “219 day” in his hometown. The project showcases his industry connections, highlighting his growth as an artist and offering listeners a glimpse into his journey filled with pain, struggles, and moments of joy. Through his music, Blizz invites fans to resonate with his experiences and find solace in knowing that they are not alone in their own battles.
Looking ahead, Blizz has exciting plans in store. He will be releasing a deluxe version of “Iced Out” in June, providing additional content for his devoted fan base. Furthermore, he has a music video set to drop on May 18th, along with upcoming interviews and podcast appearances. Blizz’s relentless work ethic and dedication to his craft underline his commitment to pushing his music to new heights.
As he continues to grow as an artist, Blizz hopes that his fans, who have been there from the beginning, can witness his evolution both in his lyrics and artistic patterns. He aspires to connect with listeners on a deeper level, offering solace, understanding, and guidance through his music. Blizz’s music is a testament to the power of resilience, and his desire to inspire and uplift others is the driving force behind his unwavering commitment to his craft.
