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<p>It's certainly a Good Friday. Today's (April 7) <strong>New Music Friday</strong> includes albums from Jermaine Dupri & Curren$y, Mississippi duo, Rae Sremmurd and R&B crooner Daniel Caesar. This week's single releases include Drake, Kaytranada, Anime and Pharrell, Joyner Lucas and Joey Bada$$.</p><h2 class="has-text-align-center" id="h-jermaine-dupri-curren-y">Jermaine Dupri & Curren$y</h2><p>Grammy Award-winning producer and rapper Jermaine Dupri and New Orleans-based rapper Curren$y have teamed up for their collaborative EP entitled <em>For Motivational Use Only Vol 1.</em> The seven song EP features appearances from T.I and 2 Chainz. The first volume of three, <em>For Motivational Use Only </em>was spawned by JD's appreciation for Curren$y naming a song after the decorated producer. Curren$y only expected to receive a track from Jermaine Dupri, but a budding friendship quickly escalated and over 40 songs were created.</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/for-motivational-use-only-vol-1/1679668445<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Daniel Caesar</h2><p>Daniel Caesar's third album <em>Never Enough</em> is finally here. As the title states, Caesar sings about the constant struggle of balancing insecurity and confidence in life and love. The 15-track album has no features, focusing on Caesar's rich-falsetto vocals.</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/never-enough/1671667136<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Rae Sremmurd</h2><p>Party-starting duo, Rae Sremmurd, is back after a long hiatus with <em>Sremm 4 Life</em>. Fans have waited roughly five years for new music since 2018s, <em>SR3MM</em>. Their last album was a triple-length project, featuring <em>SR3MM</em> (an album as a duo) and their solo projects <em>Swaecation</em> and <em>Jxmtro</em>. Their latest 14-track EP, features Young Thug and Future. Months prior to the anticipated release, the group dropped multiple singles like “Denial”, “Suckaor Sum”, "Torpedo", and “Tanisha (Pump That).”</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/sremm-4-life/1676016761<h2 class="has-text-align-center has-hot-yellow-100-color has-dark-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background">Singles</h2><h2 class="has-text-align-center">Animé, Kaytranada, Pharrell</h2>https://music.apple.com/us/album/4eva-feat-pharrell-williams/1680244273?i=1680244274<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Drake</h2>https://music.apple.com/us/album/search-rescue/1681131987?i=1681131989<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Joyner Lucas and Future</h2>https://music.apple.com/us/album/blackout/1680769055?i=1680769422<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Joey Bada$$</h2>https://music.apple.com/us/album/fallin-single/1678818420

New Music Friday: Drake, Jermaine Dupri & Curren$y, Rae Sremmurd, Kaytranada

Mar-31

<p>This week's (March 31) <strong>New Music Friday</strong> includes new releases from Chloë Bailey, Larry June & The Alchemist, DJ Drama and Juicy J as well as singles from Coi Leray, Khalid, Nardo Wick, and Jhene Aiko.</p><h2 class="has-text-align-center" id="h-chloe-bailey">Chloë Bailey</h2><p><a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/chloe-bailey-trends-online-after-posting-another-set-of-sexy-selfies">Chloë Bailey</a>'s solo debut album, <em>In Pieces</em> has finally arrived. After releasing a slew of singles ("Treat Me", "Surprise", "Have Mercy"), Bailey is showcasing her creative prowess as a songwriter and producer on her latest project. The 14-track album, featuring Chris Brown, Future and Missy Elliot, displays the tribulations with bad relationships. Sonically, <em>In Pieces</em> ranges from slow ballads ("In Pieces") to up-beat and bubbly ("Body Do") tracks. Weeks prior to it's release, Bailey teased fans with the cover art, release date and track-list for the project. The entire project is a masterclass display of vocal range.</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/in-pieces/1672433529<p></p><h2 class="has-text-align-center">Larry June & The Alchemist</h2><p>San Fransisco's very own, Larry June, has released his sixth collaborative album, <em>The Great Escape</em> with production vet, The Alchemist. The project features prior June collaborators, Curren$y (Barragán Lighting) and Jay Worthy (Exitó). There are also appearances from Joey Bada$$, Wiz Khalifa, Slum Village, Big Sean and Action Bronson. The album perfectly blends June's laid back- health conscious-optimistic style of rap over The Alchemist's mosaics of sound.</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-great-escape/1677236538<h2 class="has-text-align-center">DJ Drama</h2><p>After releasing trailers for his forthcoming project, <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/dj-drama-admits-he-feels-terrible-for-removing-nicki-minaj-from-gucci-manes-mixtapes">DJ Drama</a>'s <em>I’m Really Like That</em> is finally here. The trailers are a recreation from the record store scene in the 1991 film, <em>Juice</em>. Drama recruited Jim Jones to play 2Pac's role as Bishop and Queen Latifah to reprise her role as Ruffhouse M.C. <em>I'm Really Like That</em>, Drama's first solo album since <em>Quality Street Music 2</em>, features a star-studded line-up. Roddy Rich, Gucci Mane, Tyler, The Creator, T.I, Rick Ross and Wiz Khalifa are only a few that make appearances throughout the 14-track album.</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/im-really-like-that/1677442926<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Juicy J</h2><p>Juicy J's new mixtape, <em>Mental Trillness </em>is all about mental health. He opens the project with a PSA from former first lady, Michelle Obama, "today nearly 1 and 5 Americans are living with a mental health condition." The mixtape touches on drug abuse, relationship problems, depression and confusion. He pays homage to the late Gangsta Boo by using a sample of her hit "Where Dem Dollas At" on "Work Out". He features her again on the mixtape's closing track "Follow Home Robbers."</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/mental-trillness/1675964472<p class="has-text-align-center has-hot-yellow-100-color has-dark-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background">Singles</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/calm-patient/1680046125?i=1680046351https://music.apple.com/us/album/players-tokischa-remix-single/1679078202https://music.apple.com/us/album/valentina/1671667136?i=1671667138https://music.apple.com/us/album/hot-boy-feat-lil-baby/1679091520?i=1679091522https://music.apple.com/us/album/softest-touch/1677451277?i=1677451279

New Music Friday: Chloë Bailey, Larry June & The Alchemist, DJ Drama, Juicy J

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<p>For this week's (March 17) <strong>New Music Friday,</strong> new projects have dropped from T-Pain, Alex Vaughn and EST Gee. Outside of albums, a slew of hip-hop & R&B singles have dropped including Usher, Hit-Boy & The Alchemist, K. Michelle & Deante Hitchcock.</p><h2 class="has-text-align-center">T-Pain</h2><p>The ruler of robotic vocals, T-Pain, has released a new album but for this one, the autotune is set aside. <em>On Top of The Covers</em>, is "covered" in vocal range as he dips into country, soul and rock and roll. The eight song album includes covers from "A Change is Gonna Come" (Sam Cooke), "War Pigs" (Black Sabbath), "Tennessee Whiskey" (Chris Stapleton) and more. <em>On Top of The Covers</em> is the Tallahassee native's first studio album since his 2019, <em>1UP</em> LP. Production for the album began shortly after T-Pain won <em>The Masked Singer</em> competition.</p>https://open.spotify.com/album/3nrTn6ARC5PpGw1DZysRNU?si=RZ23p5JfQiaEsqIXb3lC5Q<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Alex Vaughn</h2><p>Prince George’s County native <strong>Alex Vaughn</strong>, has released <em>The Hurtbook (Homegirl Pack</em>), the second installment of <em>The Hurtbook</em> EP. Within the 11-track project, Vaughn sings about self-love and taps Summer Walker, Ari Lennox and Muni Long to bring home the message. Vaughn has been an opening act for Ari Lennox's "Age/Sex/Location" tour since January. Outside of her own projects, Vaughn has lended her vocals to projects by Wale, IDK and 6LACK.</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-hurtbook-homegirl-pack/1676681781<h2 class="has-text-align-center">EST Gee</h2><p>Louisville native, EST Gee hopes his sophomore project, <em>MAD</em>, will leave listeners happy. With 19-tracks, Gee maintains his gritty flow while warning his opps and boasting his successes. Boosie Badazz (HOTBOYS), Young Scooter (SLAM DUNK) and Kada (KADAS SONG) make appearances. While Gee has released several mixtapes, MAD is his second studio album since <em>I Never Felt Nun</em>.</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/mad/1676724939<h2 class="has-text-align-center has-hot-yellow-100-color has-text-color has-background" id="h-singles" style="background-color:#090000;text-transform:uppercase">SINGLES</h2><p>Usher</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/glu/1675122463?i=1675122464<p>Hit-Boy & The Alchemist</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/slipping-into-darkness/1676745820?i=1676745825<p>Deante' Hitchcock</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/drunk-af/1675132768?i=1675133009<p>Money Man & Babyface Ray</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/drums/1677043033?i=1677043306<p>K.Michelle</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/you/1675445193?i=1675445194

New Music Friday: T-Pain, Alex Vaughn, EST Gee, Hit Boy & The Alchemist

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<p>On Friday (March 10), Memphis music label, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fbreadgangthebrand%2F%3Fhl%3Den&data=05%7C01%7Cniani.patterson%40hot97.com%7Cea97d926fd874f9f930f08db21750202%7C5f3194f942424eec961e424d543ec9e0%7C0%7C0%7C638140558673710435%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=OiP8pQSfbiX57EINSTvGaxiWhmpjLJwJKA5fQ5L212o%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bread Gang</a> dropped a new video called "Shot Off Gumbo" with new signee <strong>YTB Fatt </strong>featuring <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/moneybagg-yo-apologizes-for-making-comments-about-not-wanting-pandemic-to-end">Moneybagg Yo</a> and Fat Wizza. </p>https://www.instagram.com/p/Cplz5I5oIsF/?hl=en<p>YTB Fatt recently celebrated his official signing with the label at Mau Miami. The private event had over 80 attendees including friends, family, and social media influencers. During the dinner, Fatt was gifted with two lavish diamond chains and a Goyard bag filled with cash. He has since dropped a number of records, stamping his place within the Bread Gang Entertainment family.</p><p>Founded in 2015, Bread Gang is a label founded by rapper and entertainer Moneybagg Yo. The roster includes Tripstar, Big Homiie G, Finesse2Tymes, Big30 as well as four producers. As the newest signee, Fatt joins the label already having millions of stream downloads and a solid fan base.</p><p>Check out the new video below:</p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RxB6wpXxiU

Moneybagg Yo Drops New Video 'Shot Off Gumbo' With Latest Signee, YTB Fatt

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<h4 id="h-this-is-the-first-single-from-lucas-forthcoming-album-not-now-i-m-busy">This is the first single from Lucas' forthcoming album, <em>Not Now, I’m Busy</em>.</h4><p>On Friday (March 10), two-time, Grammy-nominated artist and entrepreneur <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/thoughts-joyner-lucas-sparks-debate-w-im-not-racist-visual-video">Joyner Lucas</a><strong> </strong>unveiled his new single “Devil’s Work Part 2”. The single serves as the first release from his upcoming album, <em>Not Now, I’m Busy</em>.</p><p>In <em>“Devil’s Work Part 2,” </em>Joyner reimagines a world where he can reverse celebrity deaths, eliminate social justice issues, and overturn pop culture tragedies. </p>https://www.instagram.com/p/CpncIPtAJ_4/<p>He raps about changing the course of time and stopping <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/will-smith-says-theres-never-been-infidelity-in-his-marriage-with-jada-pinkett-smith">Will Smith</a> from slapping <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/tony-rock-says-will-smith-chris-rock-had-a-genuwine-friendship-before-oscar-slap">Chris Rock</a><strong>,</strong> preventing <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/mamba-forever-kobe-bryants-sister-gets-a-tattoo-in-honor-of-kobe-and-gianna-bryant">Kobe Bryant</a> from taking a helicopter, and eradicating the vape cartridges from <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/brittney-griner-sentenced-to-nine-years-in-russian-prison">Brittney Grine</a>r’s bag before her trip to Russia. He also delivers lyrics about overturning <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-highlights/how-pop-smoke-created-a-new-wave-in-hip-hop-bridged-the-gap-for-drill">Pop Smoke</a> and PnB Rock’s deaths while keeping Tekashi 69 locked up in prison.</p><p>At one point, Joyner takes aim at political pundit Candace Owens<strong>’</strong> comments around the cause of George Floyd’s death, rhyming that <em>“maybe they should trade places so she can see how it feels”</em>in this reimagined scenario where Joyner envisions that Owens has a knee on her neck.</p><p><em>“Devil’s Work Part 2”</em> serves as a sequel to the New England native’s song <a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3D_WrMzFlLk7Q&data=05%7C01%7CNiani.Patterson%40hot97.com%7Ce0ca859a1bdc450ff2f608db23fd8b8f%7C5f3194f942424eec961e424d543ec9e0%7C0%7C0%7C638143344132441588%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=BBXUexIp24n8B4ugqAS3XoTkeLaj%2Faj8rXQa%2BFlL1ug%3D&reserved=0"><em>“Devil’s Work”</em></a><em>, </em>which appeared on his acclaimed album, <em>ADHD¸ </em>in 2020<em>. </em>The original <em>“Devil’s Work”</em> took listeners on a journey through Joyner’s thoughts as he reflected on the deaths of Tupac, <a href="https://www.hot97.com/spotlight/life-after-death-remembering-the-legacy-of-the-notorious-b-i-g">The Notorious B.I.G</a>., XXXTentacion, Nipsey Hussle, Trayvon Martin and others, while asking God to bring them back in exchange for lives of George Zimmerman, Donald Trump, Martin Shkreli, Tomi Lahren and many others.</p>https://open.spotify.com/track/17NiQhpGEQZUlTBqRKeKve?si=7c60d9b5d64c49de

Joyner Lucas Drops Thought-Provoking Single + Video,“Devil’s Work Part 2”

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<p>For this week's New Music Friday, we have new projects from Kash Doll & DJ Drama, Eric Bellinger, Kelela, Shy Glizzy and J.I the Prince of N.Y.</p><h2 class="has-text-align-center" id="h-kash-doll-dj-drama">Kash Doll & DJ Drama</h2><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/45sSVIjiQWTes8E1MKI9lx/badada8ca9e93d48a9fa9fcb6c3bfb22/GettyImages-1202283326-878x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-95061"/><figcaption>. (Photo by Gregg DeGuire/FilmMagic)</figcaption><p>Detroit native Kash Doll joined forces with DJ Drama for <em>Back on Dexter: A Gangsta Grillz Mixtape</em>. The 11-track mixtape features appearances from Lakeyah, Peezy, Babyface Ray, Payroll Giovanni and more. In sync with the album release, the "Ice Me Out" rapper dropped a visual for "OH BOY" equipped with more detroit talent: Skilla Baby, Cash Kidd, RiskTaker D-Boy, and DJBJ 3525. She shared, "Back on dexter!! This friday! 2/10 my first project after kashton… I’m Back outside👌🏾 <em>back on dexter</em> means keisha on this tape not kashdoll i had to go back to my roots after postpartum… i had to find myself again so this tape is straight raw and street!"</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/back-on-dexter-a-gangsta-grillz-mixtape/1667406982<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Eric Bellinger</h2><p>Right on time for Valentine's Day, Grammy-nominated singer Eric Bellinger teamed up with HITMAKA for <em>1(800) HIT-EAZY: LINE 2</em>. Guest appearances include <a href="https://www.hot97.com/events/cordae-makes-his-summer-jam-debut">Cordae</a>, <a href="https://www.hot97.com/new-hip-hop-music/mary-j-blige-stuns-social-media-in-a-bright-yellow-bikini-drops-come-see-about-me-visual-ft-fabolous">Fabulous</a>, Blxst, <a href="https://www.hot97.com/interviews/tink-hitmaka-on-stepping-away-mental-health-songwriting-pillow-talk">Tink</a>, <a href="https://www.hot97.com/interviews/muni-long-talks-viral-song-hrs-hrs-transition-from-songwriter-to-artist-drake-more-w-tt-torrez">Muni Long </a>and <a href="https://www.hot97.com/new-hip-hop-music/kalan-frfr-drops-new-single-popstar-announced-tour">Kalan.FrFr</a>. Fourteen songs long, Bellinger ooohs and aahs about love and relationships. The R&B singer is currently headlining "The Obsession Tour" which kicked off on February 2nd. The tour will support his latest album as well as 2021 album <em>New Light</em>.</p><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/62HKU9e5oAmmE7qJHNvACd/8548e9a5ed8c94a163e47d19590eff1e/GettyImages-1441270679-1024x702.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-95062"/><figcaption>(Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)</figcaption>https://music.apple.com/us/album/1-800-hit-eazy-line-2/1667711335<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Kelela</h2><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/4y9tF4ZNrxWvuLeijfU6KS/4ce8eb1d1484de9249659c78127c2373/GettyImages-1458032970-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-95065"/><figcaption>(Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)</figcaption><p>It's been six years since Kelela dropped a full length project, but she's back with <em>Raven</em>. The 15-track album is a continuation of her earlier work and expansion of it. She announced the arrival of the album in November on her Instagram page, explaining that it's a "15 track deep-dive into facets of dance music that have always excited me." <em>Raven</em> is an hour long ethereal experience blending electronic, indie and R&B. While the project has no guest appearances, Kelela called on LSDXOXO, Kaytranada and longtime collaborator Asmara to assist with the production. Prior to <em>Raven</em>'s release, Kelela dropped three teaser tracks, "Contact", "On the Run" and "Happy Ending" which hinted the album's dreamy electronic tone.</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/raven/1652665077<h2 class="has-text-align-center">J<strong>.I the Prince of N.Y</strong></h2><p>Brooklyn rapper and singer, J.I the Prince, dropped his new album <em>One Way or Another</em>. The new project follows J.I's signature rap-sing style and distinctive NY accent. The features for the project include Realest K, BEAM and 2Rare. Take a listen below:</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/one-way-or-another/1668704298<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Shy Glizzy</h2><p>Shy Glizzy is giving his fans<em> Flowers</em> ahead of Valentines Day. The 20-track album features Chris Brown, NBA YoungBoy, 21 Savavge and EST GEE. The "White Girl" rapper shared on his Instagram, "FLOWERS drops at midnight! 💐 So many blood, sweat, & tears was poured into making this masterpiece. I’m grateful that I finally get to share this with the world. It’s been a long time coming, and it’s even longer to go."</p><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/1i097DIFZ8gvyahtBUkwLJ/f1ea1b0b6c82c5dbca7821c25362a771/GettyImages-981021324-683x1024.jpg" alt="Shy Glizzy" class="wp-image-95093" width="166" height="249"/><figcaption> (Photo by Leon Bennett/WireImage)</figcaption>https://music.apple.com/us/album/flowers/1670251574

New Music Friday: Kash Doll & DJ Drama, Eric Bellinger, Kelela, Shy Glizzy, and J.I

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<p>HOT 97 is a platform that strives for inclusivity and diversity. In this new music column, some of the best international musicians that are impacting listeners here in the U.S will be highlighted each week.</p><h3 id="h-bad-bunny"><strong>Bad Bunny</strong></h3><p>Bad Bunny hasn't necessarily dropped anything new but yesterday (Feb. 6), he opened the <a href="https://www.grammy.com/news/bad-bunny-2023-grammys-performance-el-apagon-despues-de-la-playa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023 Grammy Awards</a> with a party-starting performance of his singles “El Apagon” and “Después de la Playa” so we had to bring it back. During the performance, he was surrounded by dozens of dancers and led a marching band down the center of the Crypto.com Arena to pay tribute to his native island of Puerto Rico. "El Apagón" is a song that celebrates the spirit of Puerto Rico while balancing that joy with references to the island's broken infrastructure.</p><p>The two tracks are off his fourth solo studio album, <em>Un Vernano Sin Ti</em> . This 23-track project debuted at No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart, marking Bad Bunny's second No. 1 album and the second all-Spanish language album to top the chart. It spent 13 weeks at the top of the chart. It became the first Spanish-language album to earn a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year. </p>https://youtu.be/QdQEljUMCEMhttps://youtu.be/a5rlgE6dcBY<h3><strong>PinkPantheress</strong></h3><p>English singer PinkPantheress has joined forces with <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/cardi-b-shuts-down-rumors-after-teasing-an-unofficial-remix-to-ice-spices-munch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ice Spice</a> for a new remix titled “Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2.” For the song, Ice Spice adds a verse about a two-timing guy she's been dealing with. "Duckin’ my s**t, cause he know what I’m on / But when he hit me I’m not gonna respond / But I don’t sleep enough without you / And I can’t eat enough without you," the Bronx native raps. This is a collaboration we didn't know we needed from a baddie and her baddie friend.</p>https://youtu.be/oftolPu9qp4<h3><strong>Aya Nakamura</strong></h3><p>On Jan. 27, Malian-French singer Aya Nakamura released her fourth studio album, <em>DNK</em>, which features Tiakola, Myke Towers, and Kim. Her latest single off of the project is titled "Baby." The 27-year-old prides herself on being the apple of someone else’s eye in the song. She sings in her native French vocals, “He wants cuddles here and there / Wants to touch here and there / Affection and all the rest / Between us, it's too hot / Because I’m his baby, wants to become my daddy." The track peaked at No. 3 on the National Syndicate of Phonographic Publishing chart in France.</p>https://youtu.be/JKveC4CaGC8<h3><strong>Stonebwoy</strong></h3><p><a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/chance-the-rapper-vic-mensa-announce-new-festival-in-ghana" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ghanaian</a> Afro-dancehall artist Stonebwoy just released a new love song, "More Of You," where he pours out to someone he's feeling. "Baby you know I can’t get enough / I want more of you / Baby give me more and more and more," the 34-year-old sings. This track is the second song released after Stonebwoy sealed a deal with Def Jam Recordings and Universal Music Group. According to reports, the singer is currently working on his new album.</p>https://youtu.be/a_KXWkP8ffE<p>Look out for more each week! What are your suggestions so far? </p>

International Picks Of The Week: Bad Bunny, Aya Nakamura, Stonebwoy, & More

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<p>For this<strong> New Music Friday,</strong> we have single releases from Cordae and Anderson.Paak, Daniel Caesar, Chloë, Bas, and EST GEE + a new album from Lil' Yachty!</p><h3 class="has-text-align-center" id="h-chloe">Chloë</h3><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/6SQvJN5B7TU04AcOznrycv/3a6af6ce1b63407bfa3365db2cf88100/chloe-Pray-1024x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-94329"/><p>After announcing the news of her upcoming solo LP, <em>In Pieces</em>, <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/chloe-bailey-on-criticism-reading-comments-dating-dos-donts">Chloe</a> is giving fans a taste of what to expect. "Pray It Away" is the lead single on the forthcoming album, which talks about turning to God while dealing with the temptation to retaliate against an ex-lover. Prior to this release, Chloe dropped a stream of singles, "Have Mercy", "Surprise, and "Treat Me", all of which will not be included in the new LP, according to the singer. The new LP arrives in March.</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/pray-it-away/1666641651?i=1666641654<h3 class="has-text-align-center">Cordae ft. Anderson.Paak</h3><p><a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/cordae-opens-up-about-insane-weight-loss-dropping-35-pounds">Cordae</a> and <a href="https://www.hot97.com/new-hip-hop-music/anderson-paak-and-kendrick-lamar-drop-their-new-collab-tints-listen">Anderson.Paak</a> have collaborated for the second time with a new banger, "Two Tens." Over a jazzy, loop beat reminiscent of A Tribe Called Quest type sound, Cordae and .Paak exchange in a playful back and forth. The video component is equally as fun where Cordae is seen giving advice to .Paak at a bar. We were first introduced to the dynamic duo's syngery on Cordae's "RNP" track from his <em>The Lost Boy </em>album.</p><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/tDwOogFhykW0IONzGrlJ7/c454152f20c61c2f2bd475837dee4644/two-tens-1674673242.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-94334"/>https://music.apple.com/us/album/two-tens-feat-anderson-paak/1660342861?i=1660342863<h3 class="has-text-align-center">Daniel Caesar</h3><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/1htCwj5U9IbriT3sitPrip/d875c49f21f7e11be46105c2c3afb020/daniel-1024x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-94330"/><p>Grammy-Award winning artist, Daniel Caesar is back with a new single, "Do You Like Me? ". In this seductive R&B track, Caesar questions if a woman shares the same affection that he has for her. Over a Raphael Saadiq production, Caesar sings, "Do you like the way I talk to you? / Do I titillate your mind? / Gotta say I like your attitude / And I'd love to make you mine."</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/do-you-like-me/1667340922?i=1667340945<h3 class="has-text-align-center">Bas</h3><p><a href="https://www.hot97.com/interviews/bas-on-the-real-meaning-behind-the-jackie-j-cole-being-selfless-addresses-dreamville-pres-ib">Bas</a> is back with a new a single, "Diamonds", a cautionary tale about being up for public consumption as an artist. In an interview with <a href="https://www.complex.com/music/bas-diamonds-video">Complex,</a> the 35-year old shared, “‘Diamonds’ stems from the stark realization that, as artists in the public light, our pains and traumas are consistently up for the public’s consumption.” </p><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/32YEWyu7jvtQanc5RFMARR/097f25f9fe6b3b73a4ea89abf67323ca/GettyImages-1442391132-1024x708.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-94335"/>https://music.apple.com/us/album/diamonds/1666453429?i=1666453437<h3 class="has-text-align-center">EST Gee</h3><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/6lYEOHOErc1YlkMxjiEAy6/2162257f37a52c39b104aebcc16614c3/GettyImages-1369875196-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-94346"/><p><a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-highlights/funk-flex-freestyles-freestyle158-est-gee">EST Gee </a>has dropped two new singles, "BLOW UP" and "IF I STOP NOW". Produced by Foreverolling, both tracks follow the Louisville sluggers, signature gritty style. Both tracks will be included on EST Gee’s forthcoming project, <em>MAD</em>. </p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/blow-up-single/1667065308https://embed.music.apple.com/us/album/if-i-stop-now-single/1667065222<h3 class="has-text-align-center">Lil Yachty</h3><p>Atlanta native, <a href="https://www.hot97.com/new-hip-hop-music/lil-yachty-returns-with-new-album-lil-boat-3">Lil Yachty</a> entered the music scene as an eccentric character and his style has never wavered. While all of his albums are creatively curated, his latest project, <em>Let's Start Here</em> takes a new direction. The alternative album is a 'psychedelic' experience featuring live instrumentation. The LP serves as a follow up to 2020's <em>Lil Boat 3</em>. While the 14-track project has no official features, vocalists Foushee, Diana Gordon, Teezo Touchdown, and Justine Skye make appearances.</p><p>He shared on his instagram, "With almost 2 years since I started this project, I’ve wanted nothing more than to share it with you all. Here are a few clips from while making… a clip of the studios I worked out off w/ all my pals."</p><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/15k9NY9SyCbRpyh7bUAHuU/cbb797a89686845b3048314479f1c4d9/GettyImages-1330391943-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-94372"/><figcaption>il </figcaption>https://music.apple.com/us/album/lets-start-here/1667414099

New Music Friday: Cordae + Anderson.Paak, Daniel Caesar, Chloë, + More

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<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Armani White</h2><p><a href="https://www.hot97.com/whos-next">Who's Next</a> alumnus, <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/whos-next-class-2022-glorilla-armani-white-coco-jones-2rare-ambre-sha-ek-lola-brooke-more">Armani White</a>, went from Tik Tok sensation to signed recording artist. Though the Philadelphia native reached widespread fame for 2022's "Billie Eilish", Armani had been putting in work years prior so much so that he feels "Goated" now. The 26-year old dropped his latest single "Goated", a playful, braggadocious bop featuring Denzel Curry. "I spot the hate, no binoculars / This how it feel to be popular / They sendin' shot no photographer," Denzel raps. The video features Armani in the gym with the undefeated boxing legend Floyd Mayweather. "Goated" will lead the track for Armani's album slated for a spring release. BET recently named Armani White their BET Amplified Artists for the month of January.</p><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/01KPqKl3sqs872PHySEbIz/79a9262df18fc55cadb87bb6ebc222d2/GettyImages-1453532266-683x1024.jpg" alt="Armani White" class="wp-image-93512"/><figcaption>(Photo by Randy Shropshire/Getty Images)</figcaption>https://music.apple.com/us/album/goated-feat-denzel-curry-single/1663548453<h2 class="has-text-align-center" id="h-de-la-soul">De La Soul</h2><p>Hip hop trio, <strong>De La Soul</strong>, has released the digital version of 1989's <em> 3 Feet High And Rising</em> single, "Magic Number". This Apple Music exclusive release comes ahead of the broader March 3rd drop of the group's entire catalog. March 3rd also marks the 34th anniversary of their debut album, <em>3 Feet High and Rising</em>, which is being pressed as a double album on black, magenta, and yellow vinyl. Critically and commercially, the album was a success and was even <a href="https://www.loc.gov/static/programs/national-recording-preservation-board/documents/registry-by-induction-year.pdf"> selected </a> as part of 2010's Library of Congress National Recording Registry. The trio's alternative, progressive, jazz rap sound was a clear distinction from the Public Enemy, gangsta rap wave during the late 80s. </p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/3-feet-high-and-rising/1657705063<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Vedo</h2><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/HafDKTOhxTXK827fkeXBh/c660646cf57d3eff705d50d0fca32141/GettyImages-1441269832-1024x711.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-93521"/><figcaption>. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)</figcaption><p>Harbor, Michigan native, VEDO, has released his seventh album <em>Mood Swings</em>. The 13-track, R&B project features Chris Brown, Tink, and Reason. This 2023 album acts as 10 year milestone since Vedo's 2013 singing competition <em>The Voice </em>audition where he placed in the Top 12. Within a decade, Vedo went from having Usher as a coach on <em>The Voice</em> to having writing credits for both Usher ("Don't Waster My Time") and Chris Brown ("Freaky Friday").</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/mood-swings/1655965487

New Music Friday: De La Soul, VEDO, Armani White

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<p>Ice Spice released a brand new record.</p><p>The Bronx artist has been teasing “<a href="https://icespice.lnk.to/InHaMood" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">In Ha Mood</a>” on social media for a few weeks, and now fans can bump the song. It’s a follow-up to “Bikini Bottom” and is a fun, catchy tune. It was released via 10K Projects/Capitol. </p><p>Take a listen: </p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/in-ha-mood/1663116762?i=1663117165<p>Social media reactions:</p>https://twitter.com/cyntaughtyou1/status/1611462358018277376?s=46&t=enIKDH_SLNPg1eKcKpjguwhttps://twitter.com/hovamine/status/1611394203572994054?s=46&t=enIKDH_SLNPg1eKcKpjguwhttps://twitter.com/girlsinrap/status/1610044154515714048?s=46&t=enIKDH_SLNPg1eKcKpjguwhttps://twitter.com/lavizzzo_/status/1611461417957294080?s=46&t=enIKDH_SLNPg1eKcKpjguw<p><em>Per the press release:</em> </p><p>2022 was a major year for<strong> </strong>Ice Spice – between coining catchphrases and reaching the top of the end-of-year lists with her acclaimed hit “<a href="https://audibletreats-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2gfGpWcS94UCZ8jP_lwbIv0Q-bkJvmpxppQiw79ocADNFEcKHhQEUmjl-MxN417GDUmPcMGoJIDbRuqG8X0idgtX5EOgmDrvLvUX7CMyYNtLlmLlqZ-8yMpI28NIUs_N-ykdfjfA-KSAO-o8JbloYkhdoeSvVu7q-2papFurhaX8P0rWLhRb9I52ImdHd24I" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Munch (Feelin’ U)</a>,” the Bronx belle is only getting started. Sharing her new single “In Ha Mood,” Ice continues her run of bangers dedicated to the baddies. Boasting over 975K YouTube views, 2.2M SoundCloud streams, and 70K creations on <a href="https://audibletreats-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2770-ySTRSmKRcoT3yupTFUuWykt2WBMn6-eMgXBITKlKEcKHhQEJnoX9PAcQho3_eRd-osfPoECQGaFj9_0224SYD892_g_xs3-PZ0oF4DmsvRf4rQV6ljr7EpR08goAeC17p20pb5w69mzUWIY-PWMoFKWgc4bos2ZNYCZkHjJ99KVILBQjl01dYO8eUj08dhhxvuOByjtkFwW4sSBqgoPEfgGZf4jPND9XPFMqKlbPjJuwXr5S2dp1dyLED1EwQ56fj6u6DnLkrN94CctZeAZqDfwaqcY7Z38rhJyBMx7C09OkT48LUtF9gSeUFpLUu4JxJlfeQhDPTzAUo9ZbSyAs0Cz-31Bdkhv8UIP9w8Qj9dEAuz3BL_60gC0nYfjmWFRI_3RIt_SXiXTcDo-YmNVE35BoAshXTg8QJuTUEc8GhFlGCr3I0HstNg3yHpJdGWXq9qOeUbg8MTx6OzrqW5T_QLf-c69bsD3DnIQPts_oUFl88c1eD_5XndeS_4zjF45Go73aIFbskbM2GI2VDRORlRZm4EwQJHWV-nSyjLY30AGySJPSZVRt7Aet7aCcyYk2epEarCB0aB5_V43l71lMSjqZjdN3X4GTiXhbQ4HBqPuBTIseyVaeT1MmXtekw-D0jhnwdjplGm2Un5TTt37ERRYbjpOVY9EurABc0EAxzDwZrdBN4uhWiClpFOMZj2UcW5sRNeXyDUrw-xlqHHFTWy0WhruM2aS9gLGzKFmDN0rtiAm7VpR8vw2hXC8uxaDm5qwfavuCRMPOun3p_CHVylDmga59RVlaUKSm_UDZbhQDkvnOCfbbqlZsxwswSSsr9-3ZrW9Wra1O3aZ_aD9btmBw6X03i7NFJ3AJnAe1r6v_9qWl04b5eup08_iOliHc9kg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TikTok</a> ahead of its official release, “In Ha Mood” finds Ice delivering audible eyerolls in her rhymes as she dismisses the munches and relishes in being a hot commodity. Gliding over a Jersey club-inspired beat by frequent collaborator RIOTUSA, Ice trades in her signature rhetorical questioning for a more definitive, caption-worthy affirmation: “She a baddie, she know she a ten/She a baddie with her baddie friend.”</p>

Ice Spice Drops Off 2023 Anthem For The Baddies With ‘In Ha Mood’

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<p>A artist catches Drewski's attention with the hook, but he wasn't impressed by the beat. </p><p>Artists are constantly asking DJ's and influencers to listen to their music and give them feedback. They are in DMs and commenting under IG post “Check My Page”, they just want to be Heard. This is the show for them! Every week, Drewski will be randomly selecting people from the comment section of his Instagram asking to be heard and giving them his honest feedback. </p><p>Today he reviews tracks from Oao primo 2x and Skizy. </p>

Drewski ‘Catchy Hook’ Beat Wasn’t Slapping | Heard U

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<p>A Boogie blessed fans with a gift on his birthday today (December 6).</p><p>The “King of My City” rapper released “(Water) Drowning Part 2” ft. Kodak Black. The original dropped in 2017, off his debut studio album, The Bigger Artist, and went seven times platinum. </p><p>A Boogie dropped the single ahead of his forthcoming album, Me vs. Myself, out on December 9. The album features 21 songs with appearances from Don Q, G Herbo, Lil Durk, Roddy Ricch, Tory Lanez and more. </p><p>Check out the “(Water) Drowning Part 2”</p>https://youtu.be/giOOCTS-b3I<p>During an <a href="https://amp.www.complex.com/music/a-boogie-wit-da-hoodie-kodak-black-water-drowning-pt-2-stream" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interview</a>, A Boogie spoke on the sequel and said, “After I made this record, everyone I played it for said it felt like the sequel to “Drowning. So it was only right that I had Kodak jump on this to make another classic record.”</p><p>Let us know how you feel about the song!</p>

A Boogie Drops Off ‘Drowning Part 2’ Ft. Kodak Black Ahead Of New Album ‘Me Vs. Myself’

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<p>Fans are eagerly waiting for Drake and 21 Savage's newest album <em>Her Loss</em> to drop this Friday. Champagne Papi may have dropped something to hold everyone over in the meantime. </p>https://www.instagram.com/p/CkeQHhyj0EE/<p>Although everyone seems to be excited about the NPR Tiny Desk teaser, it may all just be a farce. </p>https://twitter.com/nprmusic/status/1587914869314969600?s=20&t=6N1K-uC7JG132ewGWIP2aA<p>NPR quote tweeted the clip of the Tiny Desk Concert, seemingly hinting at the fact that this is not a real concert. Which leaves both Drake and 21 Savage's fan bases very confused.</p><p>Just a few short hours after the Tiny Desk Concert clip was posted, Drake posted a clip of him and 21 Savage being interviewed on The Howard Stern Show.</p>https://www.instagram.com/p/Ckelnaoul4l/<p>The rapper captioned the post "Absolutely NO filter with the incomparable <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sternshow/">@sternshow</a> 🥀 thanks for having us."</p><p>According to the video, the interview was done October 26th, but there is no evidence online that it actually happened. This leaves speculations that these clips are a part of a roll out, either as promotion for the album or a new music video from the duo. </p><p>Users on Twitter aren't too happy with the rappers, however.</p>https://twitter.com/Iifeimmortality/status/1587922441572999168?s=20&t=Pr9nAhyCryP33WdtUY8LGA<p>The duo may have some explaining to do to the fans if answers aren't given soon! Drake has always been a genius at marketing his albums and this would not be the first time he had fans at the edge of their seats.</p>

Drake Teases NPR Tiny Desk Concert With 21 Savage

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<p>Fans were shocked early Tuesday morning waking up to the news that rapper, Takeoff, was <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/rip-takeoff-reportedly-shot-killed-in-houston">shot and killed</a> in Houston. The 28 year old rapper leaves behind an extensive catalogue of knowledge, insight and of course bars. Here are some of the best moments of Takeoff on HOT 97. </p><p><strong>2021 Summer Jam Performance</strong> <strong>With Cardi B</strong></p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWhHjiRI1pE<p>The rap group brought out technically two guests during their set at the 2021 Summer Jam. A pregnant Cardi B joined the group to perform their hit <em>Type Shit</em> off of their album Culture III.</p><p><strong>Discussing The Origins Of Migos</strong></p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFnHYqMOPJo<p>When the Migos first stepped on the scene, many doubted them. One thing Takeoff never did was allow that to falter him or the direction the group headed towards. Takeoff was the backbone and foundation (literally) of the group.</p><p><strong>Learning More About</strong> <strong>The Rap Group</strong></p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ajz4j3a2cxM<p>Once Offset was released from jail, the trio joined HOT 97 once again to sit down with Ebro to discuss the group's goals and style of rap. </p><p><strong>Challenging Rappers To Go Bar For Bar</strong></p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gguSO1HHTag<p>If it's one thing Takeoff would do, is slide on a track! The rapper and his uncle, Quavo knew they had talent. The two sat down with HOT 97 to challenge any rapper to go bar for bar. They also discussed the pressures of being the underdogs in the game at the time.</p><p><strong>Talking Grammys And Kanye West</strong></p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbrameJjPO0<p>The group was on a high in 2018, after being nominated for two Grammys. The trio sat down with Ebro and Laura Stylez to discuss the nomination and some secret tracks they have with some top artists. </p><p><strong>Migos And 2Chainz Shut Down 2017 Summer Jam</strong></p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5yU3N30epE<p>Takeoff's presence was always quiet but was easily the loudest in the room. He carried himself with class and always did what was best for Migos. Our prayers go out to friends and family of Takeoff at this time.</p>

Remembering Takeoff: Best Of The Late Rapper

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<p>For the week of Oct 28th, we have new music from Rihanna, Smino, and Westside Gunn.</p><h2 class="has-text-align-center has-text-color" id="h-rihanna" style="color:#390b8a">R<strong>ihanna</strong></h2><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/4Lo0O9g3BqVYvVdhaJ2zAv/f9cde87fec6a759901cda1588452d0af/GettyImages-1436878654-687x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-89371"/><p>Whew, after six long awaited years,<strong> <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hot-news/rihanna-asks-her-look-a-like-where-the-album-sis">Rihanna</a></strong> has released a new song, "Lift Me Up", from the '<em>Black Panther: Wakanda Forever' </em>soundtrack. The song serves as a tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman,  who died of colon cancer in August 2020 at the age of 43. Nigerian singer Tems co-wrote the song along with Rihanna, Ludwig Göransson and director Ryan Coogler. Tems shared in a press release, "I wanted to write something that portrays a warm embrace from all the people that I've lost in my life. I tried to imagine what it would feel like if I could sing to them now and express how much I miss them." Rihanna teased the track on Thursday with a snippet of the song and caption, "lift me up 10.28.22".</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/lift-me-up-from-black-panther-wakanda-forever-music/1651763191<h2 class="has-text-align-center has-text-color" style="color:#370505">Westside Gunn</h2><p>Buffalo, NY rapper, <strong>Westside Gunn,</strong> is ending his <em>Hitler Wears Hermes</em> series of mixtapes with his latest mixtape, <em>10</em>. The twelve-track album has various artist features including but not limited to Dj Drama, A$AP Rocky, Black Star, Raekwon, and Ghostface Killah. <em>10</em> serves as a follow up to <em>Peace 'Fly' God</em> which Westside dropped back in July. The Griselda Records artist is currently working on his fifth studio album, <em>Michelle Records</em>. </p><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/1dwIZfgGZK8nZ72dI9RKIJ/9d0cf6b9f70f096b7cac871687019386/GettyImages-1325813561-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-89377"/>https://music.apple.com/us/album/10/1651514305<h2 class="has-text-align-center">Smino</h2><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/bjeljlcmmjko/5OhGALsWwhob5xdpam3lnp/85955c2d8e7267c39795380465bcd7d0/GettyImages-1241677067-1024x801.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-89380"/><p>Soulful rapper and singer, Smino released his third studio album,<em> Luv 4 Rent</em>. Released under Motown Records, the fifteen-track album features ten guest appearances some including J.Cole, Doechii, Fatman Scoop, Lil Uzi Vert, and Lucky Daye. Smino's sound can be described as modern neo-soul with eclectic energy. On October 19th, the singer <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cj54y1MPxzU/">shared</a> that he was having an album listening party: "open house! 🏡 put yall applications in to come hear “Luv 4 Rent” early. 👉🏾swipe👉🏾 for dem details . "</p>https://music.apple.com/us/album/luv-4-rent/1650481396

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New Music Friday: Drake, Jermaine Dupri & Curren$y, Rae Sremmurd, Kaytranada