Remixd Magazine’s new list of best new songs applauds the ones who steadily go the extra mile. From HDBeenDope‘s “Free Mind (Freeverse)” to Diz‘s “Father Renaissance,” music enthusiasts are sure to find a bop that leads them straight to the finish line. Victoria Monet‘s “SMOKE,” on the other hand, helps others decompress in moments of high stress. No matter what phase you’re at with work, there’s a relatable record for it here.
Read our selections for this week below:
1) Victoria Monet – “SMOKE (feat. Lucky Daye)”
Lucky Daye joins vocal forces with Victoria Monet in her newest single, “SMOKE.” They collaborated on one of Daye’s older records called “Little More Time.” Following the 420 theme, both singers prep for a chill L ride. Similarly, they illustrate what it feels like to blow off some steam, all while being in the presence of someone they adore. A depiction of what it means to get lifted especially shines in this line, “Little fireworks that light up for me/In my fingertips I burn my worries/Do it somethin’ like that eight-track shorty/Keep it in rotation, it’s a celebration every time we smoke.” Production-wise, the elite songwriter follows her groovy R&B aesthetic. The song is a highlight off Victoria Monet’s upcoming album, Jaguar II.
2) 24kGoldn – “3 AM in Oakland Freestyle (feat. Karri)”
Taking a page from Drake’s late-night tone found in songs like “Chicago Freestyle,” 24kGoldn controls his own narrative with this brand-new freestyle. In just a minute and a half, the versatile musician takes a walk down memory lane and recalls “building a bridge that eventually got burned” with a woman who still has his heart. Although this special someone has moved on, 24kGoldn won’t stop going the distance for her love. The “Mood” hitmaker details unforgettable moments they should anticipate and intends to demonstrate why she fell for him to begin with. The somber chorus goes, “If I’m on your mind just say it.”
3) HDBeenDope – “Free Mind (Freeverse)”
HDBeenDope interpolates Tems’ “Free Mind” in his newest freestyle. In “Free Mind (Freeverse),” he reflects on how all the late nights and early mornings paid off. Despite having doubters in his ear, HDBeenDope trusted the process. Now, the hard work is very visible. But pure bliss, according to HDBeenDope, is also cutting off anyone who doesn’t want the best for you. “I remember when they told me I was ludicrous/Getting chicken, barely off the records, I was moving it.” The wordsmith also touches on his mile-a-minute hustle and enjoying the finer things in life.
4) FLO – “Fly Girl (feat. Missy Elliott)”
Rising R&B group FLO has dropped an empowering bop called “Fly Girl.” The song is influenced by the iconic rapper, Missy Elliott, who drops a slew of intricate rhymes. Lyrically, the group demonstrates what it means to have a high level of love for oneself. The singers also embody a high level of independence that won’t be lowered for any suitor. As the bouncy R&B beat plays in the back, references to Missy Elliott’s “Work It” can be heard. “‘Fly Girl’ is all about confidence, good vibes, and feeling your best,” FLO stated. “It’s a lively, feel-good song that still incorporates clever lyrics and fire vocals if we do say so ourselves. It’s quite literally a perfect fusion of old-school meets modern-day R&B, with a nod to and feature from the original fly girl Missy Elliott herself. We love it and are so happy to be putting out a song that can hopefully make whoever plays it feel confident and, most importantly, FLY.”
5) Hit-Boy and Nas – “The Tide”
Hit-Boy and Nas’s “The Tide” explores the price that comes with fame. Over a soulful boom-bap record, Hit-Boy sees others for who they are after their lack of support. While climbing to the top, he observes fake love and switched-up behavior. Yet, Hit-Boy remains unfazed through it all. Instead of wasting time, he channels his energy into perfecting his craft. After reminiscing on his come-up, he spits, “Thеy sleepin’ on me/That’s the main reason, I don’t sleep.” Nas, who is undeniably one of hip-hop’s veterans, exposes distant relatives and those who feel entitled to compensate from his hard work. The well-versed MC also takes a moment to reap the benefits of his success. The song comes off Hit-Boy’s new project Surf Or Drown.
6) Diz – “Father Renaissance”
At the pinnacle of success, there tend to be moments of discouragement. Luckily, Diz’s resonating bars in “Father Renaissance” illustrate the push-and-pull pattern we face when keeping hope alive. As he works meticulously around the clock, Diz wonders when his time will come. Along the way, the wordsmith battles it out with intrusive thoughts and doubt from the opposing parties. In the end, Diz’s tenacity brings the trophy home. He proclaims that he’s here to stay. Sonically, “Father Renaissance” is prompted by static and transitions to a chill boom-bap beat after. One notable line goes, “I’ve been moving with the wind I’m not lost, I’m not broken, I’m exhausted/Still standing on my feet, thought that shit would be my year, looks like it’s rinse it and repeat.”
7) Larry June, The Alchemist, and Big Sean – “Palisades CA”
“Palisades CA” is one of several hits on Larry June and The Alchemists’ upcoming collaborative album, The Great Escape. Vowing to always “bet on myself,” because “every time it’s a hit,” Larry June and Big Sean rap about what they’ve gained from keeping their nose to the grindstone. They also touch on the importance of self-care and love. As the duo block out negativity and focus on a more positive outcome from their hard work. The Alchemist-produced beat is both ominous and elusive, riding the waves of boom-bap. “I’m thinkin’ billions, cop anothеr buildin’, new woop Sicilian/Thinkin’ bigger, you thought I was coolin’, I was takin’ risks,” Larry June spits.
8) thee B.P. – “Strike A Pose II”
thee B.P. takes on the role of a person who frequently scrutinizes their physical appearance in “Strike A Pose.” Comprising a bouncy boom-bap meets jazz beat and cognizant wordplay, the rapper communicates that he’s a force to be reckoned with. His confidence results in knowing his worth and refusing to be a part of anything low vibrational. This record’s purpose is to humble egoistic individuals. The message shines through when he raps, “But someone go and tell the Pied Piper/Cuz I’m a beast, I’m a dog/I’m a motherfuckin problem/Woah Kemosabe, let’s see what’s in them pockets.”
9) Rucci & Bankroll Got It – Notorious
We couldn’t just pick one song so we’re spotlighting the whole EP. Rising in the West Coast with his raw lyricism and snarling flows, Inglewood’s Rucci is a master of sinister West Coast storytelling. Finding an ideal partner in Platinum-selling production duo Bankroll Got It, Rucci shares his new album Notorious, a cinematic and engaging slice of California rap. The new album is the first-ever full-length collaboration between Bankroll Got It–known for their hits with Latto, Lil Baby, Coi Leray, and more–and a single artist. Standout tracks include “Up 2 U” ft. Kalan.FrFr and “Shoulder Lock.”
10) Grace Weber – “Lonely“
Grammy-winning R&B star Grace Weber circles back a week after the audio-only release of “Lonely” with an exciting new visual. The new VEVO visual showcases Grace’s full scope of creativity. The empowering video proves that even by herself, she is enough. She wants her fans to embrace everything about themselves. The Milwaukee-bred singer wants to turn the heat up for her forthcoming project this year. “Lonely” perfectly highlights Grace’s growth as a recording artist. The confidence in her voice is showcased throughout the 3-minute visual. Although Grace is alone in the DAK-directed video, she engages fans with silky-smooth transitions.
