The best new music from the week of December 12th!
It’s New Music Friday! Of course, you can always expect us to put the spotlight on some of our favorite releases. More importantly, you can always count on us to keep it real on everything we cover. This week’s edition of N.M.F. features standout releases from 21 Savage, Pooh Shiesty, Ken Carson, and many more. Read on to find the latest tracks from the latest tracks and albums that dropped this week.
New Music Friday Picks
21 Savage – ‘WHAT HAPPENED TO THE STREETS?’ (Album)
Admittedly, it’s time to have a serious conversation about 21 Savage and where his career is headed. Despite all the heavy hitters he featured on his album and the amazing producers, nothing could save this album. In fact, it feels that we have reached a point at which he has run out of things to even rap about. The only thing that could save his career is another undeniable classic like ‘I am> i was.’
Pooh Shiesty – “FDO”
Undoubtedly, one of the most important things for a gangsta rapper’s career is his “first day out” track after being released. In recent memory, Pooh Shiesty has had the best example of this in recent history. With a runtime of five minutes, he made sure not to waste any time getting everything that’s been off his chest. Without a doubt, Pooh Shiesty has the potential to have one of the best comebacks if this is how he’s entering the new year.
Ken Carson – “the acronym” ft Destroy Lonely
Indeed, it’s always a great day when a long-awaited snippet lives up to the hype. Realistically, Ken has always led the charge of the underground, but his recent run of singles has put him in a lane of his own. In this case, “the acronym” is elevated to new heights thanks to an appearance from his labelmate, Destroy Lonely.
R&B Corner
JayDon – “lullaby” (remix) ft Usher & Paradise
Essentially, it’s safe to say that R&B is in safe hands in 2026 with the emergence of JayDon. In particular, his mentorship under Usher has propelled his career. Their bond is put on full display on the remix of “lullaby,” as you get to see why Usher took JayDon under his wing. Not only is this remix a certified banger, but it also paves the way for an ambitious sophomore year.
Destiny Briona – “special” (remix) ft Lakeyah
In comparison to the last remix, this one hits a little differently for other reasons. ATL-based R&B singer/songwriter, Destiny Briona joins forces with Lakeyah for a well-needed R&B-rap collab. Truly, it feels like they are keeping a lost tradition alive that originally united both genres.
Charlie Bereal – “Chocolate Women”
I believe that something special is being cooked up at the new-age Death Row Records. In particular, their signee, Charlie Bereal is bringing the essence of vintage soul in his new single, “Chocolate Women.” Proof of this can be heard throughout the track made up of his silky vocals and delicate songwriting.
Rapper’s Delight
A2P Fred – ‘Legendary Run’ Deluxe (Album)
Given the release of the deluxe version of A2P Fred’s ‘Legendary Run,’ one can say Christmas came early. On this occasion, we are gifted a healthy handful of features from some budding stars like Lil Tony, Nino Paid, and 1900 Rugrat. To put it simply, he’s putting himself in a better position by surrounding himself with like-minded peers.
TiaCorine – “Lotion” ft Flo Milli
With the last pick of New Music Friday, we have a very vibrant video from TiaCorine. Produced by Kenny Beats, he literally creates a digital ’80s soundscape for this duo to exert some fun feminine energy. Simply put, there’s so much to appreciate from the light-hearted song.
We hope you enjoyed this week’s edition of New Music Friday!
