SLU!¢£n $zn by Gady

As popular culture is shifting into a more retro era, so is Hip Hop. Gady has achieved an inspiring combination of Y2K style and rap music. His latest EP SLU!¢£n $zn possesses a vibrant and fast essence, within the music and Gady’s gracious delivery. The project is entirely produced by Kasai, a obviously perfect pairing for Gady’s music, known to be on the higher side of BPMs. It’s difficult to listen to without matching his energy along the way. This 10 minute, five-song EP is exactly what people are looking for. It’s completed with its uplifting energy and optimism. As the world is quickly beginning to reopen, safely, Gady’s music is a great way to encourage you to, as well.

Click here to listen to SLU!¢£n $zn on SoundCloud.

Trapatar by Keko

How is he not famous yet? 

That was my initial thought after listening to the opening track of Trapatar by Keko. The Atlanta rapper’s latest project has all the trappings of any artist you’d see in a Cole Bennett music video or featured on the next Drake single. Keko has a casual and almost childish cadence, one somewhat akin to Lil Yachty’s low but childlike voice. Keko sets himself apart from most with his approach, acting as if each instrumental is an opponent. He wants to have the best flow for each sound or style he’s working with- at least that’s how it sounds. This allows him to rap on the heavy trap and drill beats as well as some of the less conventional styles. Each track on his new EP hits differently, but it’ll only draw you in more.

Click here to listen to Trapatar on SoundCloud 

No Hook by BunnyTheDon

BunnyTheDon keeps a tight grip on her cash and an even tighter grip on the industry. Her new single and visual “No Hook” is sure to lure in more listeners. Similar to the music video, shot by FilmedByTylan, BunnyTheDon is a woman in a predominantly male game. She finds confidence is proving herself. Her lyrics aren’t copied and her drive to be better than the boys at this is genuine. As a Maryland native and a boisterous MC, she’s sure to have fans all across the country in no time.

Click here to watch the “No Hook” music video on YouTube.

No Average by Digital Dior ft. Yung Gosse

 

Music label Digital Dior has taken visible steps within the industry to make themselves a household name. Their latest release “No Average”, featuring Yung Gosse and production by Papi and Rich Illuminati is a fierce leap forward. The single holds the essence of UK Drill, popularized in the US by late rapper Pop Smoke. Between Papi and Rich Illuminati, they’ve managed to conger dark energy through heart-thumping bass and adding a more sinister tone via a synth. Lyrically, Digital Dior and Yung Gosse hit it right on the head. The tempo is quick but cold. “No Average” delivers as a complete and mindful body of work with a clear message: we’re coming for you.

Click here to listen “No Average” on YouTube.

Turbo Bieber 3: Popstars Never Die! by Lil Turbo

Lil Turbo is keeping the summer energy alive with the third installment to his alter ego’s discography, Turbo Bieber. The eight track album consists of some of his best lyrical performances and new classics to add to any playlist.

The project is led with “Shine” a rich track to immerse the listener. It’s the perfect element of escapism. The project continues with “Texaco & Citago” with production by Neilaworld. The beat has an experimental and cosmic tone with Lil Turbo at the helm of the musical experience. Lil Turbo isn’t afraid to embrace what’s outside of the norm. His collaboration with Belis in “Gotta Blast” probably has the highest return on interest. The song is melodic and catchy, and assistance from Belis’ otherworldly vocals elevates Turbo’s delivery and gives body and texture to the piece.

From there, Turbo Bieber hits full speed. “Paranoid” has a more cocky persona than the tracks before it. Lil Turbo is focused on the climb, how others are moving around him couldn’t matter less. “Fuck what you say, I’m make me a trillion.” He’s manifesting a bright and rich future. “Money Talk” has softer energy, displaying his range and ability to maintain artistry while hitting all the notes people want to hear. He’s assisted by SEBii to solidify the gentle sound he was looking for. “Bad Bih” is a clever song, the tune almost mimicking  a nursery rhyme, making it almost impossible to forget. “Outerspace Zaza!” keeps the fun going. So far, Lil Turbo has allowed the tempo of the album to shift and flow almost like a concert. Each song has its purpose, whether it’s to kick off the show, keep the momentum going or slow it down. Lil Turbo closes out the show with “I Know She Know”, a more rhythmic and sensual track left over for the ladies.

Click here to listen Turbo Bieber 3: Popstars Never Die! anywhere.

Slide Down By Lil Xelly Music Video

Lil Xelly has teamed up with one of his most loyal and iconic collaborators MOSHPIT, for his “Slide Down” music video. The Maryland rapper has his usual outgoing and careless demeanor as he pilots a Mercedes from outside the driver’s window. MOSHPIT disclaims that the entire video was created with just one scene worth of raw footage. This doesn’t hurt his creativity. He may work the best with the most simple of conditions. He depicts winding roads on top of mountains, fighter jets and Lil Xelly in the eye of the storm. Thanks to Xelly and producer ChinaTown, “Slide Down” has that essential upbeat energy to get you through your day, even if it isn’t going the best. 

Click here to watch “Slide Down” on YouTube.

Apply That Pressure EP by G.Soulow

Over the last few years, R&B has been pushed out of the musical spotlight by trap and drill music. North Alabama artist G. Soulow has made it his mission to rejuvenate R&B’s presence in pop music, and marry it with trap elements. His EP Apply That Pressure has a healthy and organic mix of rhythmic vocals and trap lyrics and instrumentals. “Gotta get a bag. Can’t go nowhere. Gotta stay focused. My music my biggest effect.” z

This project doesn’t have a single song that isn’t worth playing all of the way through. As a young artist, his talent lies in his vision and storytelling. G. Soulow is capable of depicting exactly how he feels or the message he wants to convey through his writing and musical arrangement. “Bestfriend” has a classic rhythm and blues tone while still creating that new school energy with its hook. G. Soulow has certainly spent ample time perfecting this project to not only be a solid and enjoyable body of work, but to also make it a valuable artifact in his discography. Apply That Pressure will remain timeless because of his attention to detail and believing that it’s quality not quantity.

Click here to listen to Apply That Pressure on SoundCloud.

A QUICK CONVERSATION WITH WXLDBXI

WxldBxi isn't very flashy when it comes to everything outside of music. His online presence differs from “get-rich-quick” artists that constantly demand your attention with stunts and gimmicks. Instead, WxldBxi allows his audience to come to him. His Instagram has fewer than a dozen posts, but each is filled with love from fans. His music can excitable, melodic and expressive. He's illusive, but a fresh face in the same beat. This was a great opportunity to learn more about such a versatile and enigmatic artist.

How did you start creating your own music? Was there a key person that supported you?

WXLD: I started creating my own music through an android phone first. And I used an app called 'bandlab' On it. My uncle who passed away was a big fan of music and I lived with him along with grandma,mother,and 4 brothers. Little house but we made it work. But anyways, I was like 6-7 and I was always listening to him play the guitar. I loved how it sounded so I use to always sing to it. So as I got older I fell in love with music even more. Then I started creating music and my big brother Gino believed I had potential so he supports me through my journey.


What pushed you to make your music public?

WXLD: What pushed me to make my music public is the love I had for it. Growing up was tough but I never was the person to talk about my depression & feelings verbally. So growing up I was hearing & seeing people that was going through it also. So I made music for the ones that feel like they’re are alone. But I’m letting them know that they’re aren’t because I’m explaining some of my songs that I have those problems too. So that's why I’ve decided to make it public. I want everybody to hear my come up and pain.


Do you categorize your own music into a genre? Do you think genres still matter?

WXLD: Honestly I don’t Categorize my music in a specific genre. But if I did it’ll probably be 'Emo Rap'. But that’s funny because all of my music isn’t emo rap. I try to make music for everyone so you’ll see me making (pop,rock,hiphop,and r&b) So personally I don’t categorize my music. But yes I do think genres matter. Simply because our listeners want to know what type of style of music they’re listening to. And also, our listeners have some genres they don’t like. So yes i think genres are relevant today.


You have two tracks on SoundCloud, were you surprised by the great reception?

WXLD: Yeah honestly I was surprised by the great reception despite of me having only two songs as of right now. See for me, I’ve kindve started my whole music career over. So I’m in the process of gaining an loyal audience. Honestly I feel like this the hardest part of it all simply because people have to see what they like in you. And I don’t really know what people want yet. I just be myself and they’ll either love that or hate you for it.


Can you tell us anything about Teenage Nightmares?

WXLD: When i describe 'Teenage Nightmares' it’s pretty much what we go through as Teens. Like Depression,Anxiety,Mental Illness,pregnancy,drug addiction,etc being so young. And added on what we see & hear about around us. Like murder, politics,etc. But as a teen we thinking like 'this is supposed to be the best time in our life' simply because we might can get out the house more often, go to parties, doing lit things and have fun'. But nowadays it’s vice versa for a lot of people like myself. So it’s simply a nightmare I describe it as.


Are there plans for music videos in the near future?

WXLD: Of course they’re plans for visuals. I’m thinking to have my music videos like a movie though. Not extended so long but like the feeling and eagerness. I want people to see my visions on my song.


What does “wxldbxi” symbolize for you? What do you want it to mean for your fans?

WXLD: WXLDBXI is pronounced (Wild Boy) But 'WXLDBXI' looks cooler to me and stand out. The reason i got that name is because I did and do wild things like a 'Dare Devil'. I was influenced by Steve O growing up. I seen how he really lived his life and Tried to have fun. But there’s also another meaning of 'wild boy'...I been through a lot of wild scenes in life like I seen ppl get stabbed etc when I was younger. So I describe my whole life as 'Wild'. I want the Name Wxldbxi to mean to my fans ‘expect anything from me' like don’t be surprised if I do this or that.

Click here to listen to WxldBxi on SoundCloud.

40 Ball Shawty by CloudGTB

CloudGTB of Hip Hop collective IcedOutAngels released a versatile and aggressive track today, perfect for your next quarantine induced rage. “40 Ball Shawty” is high energy and the use of wind instruments, orchestrated by its producer Guami, adds a unique flair. It gives the single that inquisitive feeling that makes you want to listen to it again, and when you do you may find another layer of sounds you didn’t notice before. The lyrics are cocky, but rightfully so. They must’ve known they have a hit on their hands.

Click here to listen to “40 Ball Shawty” on a SoundCloud.

Slayer by Hefna380

Hefna380 never fails. His newest single “Slayer” is a fiery and energetic track. Although it’s brief, Hefna380 lifts the mood as quickly as the track starts. “Big bank. I want it all then I spend it all.” Producer W1erdo adds growls and adventurous high hats to enhance the animalistic, predatory zeal “Slayer” holds. Hefna380 has developed a loyal following to look forward to his music and he hasn’t disappointed. Each track in his discography can be played back-to-back or for key moments in your day. It won’t be long before we hear him everywhere.

Click here to listen to “Slayer” on SoundCloud.

Like A Pro Freestyle by Valencia Snow

Sometimes a wicked mindset is required to survive in the entertainment business. Dallas rapper Valencia Snow isn’t a stranger to wicked tendencies. Her “Like A Pro” freestyle cramped with sultry bars and unapologetic femininity. Ms. Snow isn’t shy on the mic. ”When I take your soul I’ll never release ya.” And she thrives in this oftentimes heartless environment. “Got you f*cked up in the head while you’re laying in your bed. But do not blow me up ‘cuz I’ll leave ya ass on read.”

Click here to listen to the “Like A Pro” freestyle on SoundCloud. 

Moron by Kid Vision

Take what they say about you and flip it on its head. That’s what Kid Vision with his single “Moron”. He strengthened his craft through the criticism of some that may be too afraid to chase their dreams. The track begins with silence until a scratch of static is heard, followed by Kid Vision’s animated flow. His lyrics are zany and humorous. His bars fire one after another, attacking you with all of his feats and calling his future like Babe Ruth. He’s confident, rightfully. He mocks his doubters and speaks his future into existence. The track closes with more static and a brief tape recording that’s tone contrasts the boisterous attitude the rest of the track holds. He asks his audience to listen to what he has to stay. There are better things to come.

Click here to listen to “Moron” on Spotify.

Teen Spirit by BigBabyGucci

BIGBABYGUCCI is a free spirit. He says whatever is on his mind and tackles any task he feels is worthy of his time. There are no limitations to his creative talent and he continues to push himself as an artist. His brand new album Teen Spirit highlights these awesome qualities. The album’s title reigns true in its tone. The style of music is carefree and elevating. It conveys fun and relaxation, something everyone is searching for while stuck in this uncertainty. Through this project BIGBABYGUCCI promotes being the best of what you believe you can be, while being the perfect album to play in the car.

The project begins with “Typical” produced by Fish and AG. The lonely piano chords slowly increase the excitement, the moment you’ve been waiting for. BIGBABYGUCCI’s vocals rain onto the track. His signature blend of melodic and trap vocals sync with electric guitar over the chorus. As an artist, there’s always something up his sleeve. Followed by “Typical” is “Jason Vorhees”, inspired by the cult classic horror series “Friday the 13th”. “Put that mask on baby I’m Jason... your body I’m chasin’.” BIGBABYGUCCI’s sound progresses further and further in the field of R&B. We might have an official R&B album in the near future, A Girl Is A Gun, possibly.

 “Vogue” lifts the slower tempo that the project began with. “Vogue” is produced by Harold Harper and is the only song out of the thirteen track project without producer Fish’s credit along with it. This may be the great beginnings of a dynamic rapper-producer duo. “Switch Locations” is one of the less flashy songs on the album. BIGBABYGUCCI is more vulnerable and indulges us with insights to his life. He talks about a relationship that would’ve worked if only the side was loyal. This very well could be the love that shifted his heart. We’ll never know because he’s moved on to the perks of a higher life.

“Japanese Garments” is BIGBABYGUCCI in his bag. His bars flow effortlessly, almost too quickly to keep track of in your first listen. The beat is simple, letting his verses fly freely. Without production by Fish and Lukrative, we wouldn’t have such a clean masterpiece. He hastily moves on to “Your Way”. This song carries the energy of late summer nights doing things you shouldn’t. It has the essence of mistakes and good memories, as most of the album does. Next is “Ask Me” co-produced between Fish and Whoiznate. This is BIGBABYGUCCI’s opportunity to speak to all of his doubters, to flaunt his success for those who said he’d never make it. Now, he’s in the position to move mountains and get the girl.

The album continues with “Gosha”, the world’s first hint as to what this project would consist of. It embodies his classic swagger and in-your-face lyrics. “Gotta kill me. I ain’t going back.” He’s been waiting for this opportunity and is taking full advantage. If there’s money to be made, he’s there. “Prada” feels like a symbol for his success. He talks about not wanting drama, not paying attention to anyone else’s game  and flying off to an island instead. “Another Planet” is an uptempo hit that carries that same, fun-loving energy that has become the staple of the project. The beat, produced by Fish and Lukrative utilizes high hats and Spanish guitar, making it difficult not to lock into. BIGBABYGUCCI stitched together the theme of the album with precision.

“Vision” lets off the nostalgia of a theme song for a super villain. This may be appropriate due to the song’s racy subject matter as the young rapper recalls late nights with the ladies. “Suspect” takes a lighter approach. Although BIGBABYGUCCI may be a man of many women, he’s still looking for that one. But he’s always on the run, always under scrutiny or speculation. BIGBABYGUCCI closes the project with “Hell & Back”. He’s resilient, a fighter. Climbing up the ladder in this game is nothing compared to what it took to get to the start. As an artist, BIGBABYGUCCI is a rebel. There’s no box to place him inside because he’s constantly shifting directions. He’s not afraid of dabbling in genres that Hip Hop doesn’t tend to touch. He’s an artist of this generation, there’s nothing that could break his spirit.

Click here to listen to Teen Spirit anywhere.

A QUICK CONVERSATION WITH URA SENSEI

Ura Sensei draws his inspiration from within. His music is an extension of himself, thus each layer holds a piece of his story. His songs holds elements of old school style. Lyrically, he likes tends to speak what’s on his mind, delivering a message or a good time. Ura doesn’t shy away from talking about romance. His single “To My Girlfriend”, is currently his most popular song on Spotify, nearing 20,000 plays. He’s on a path to higher peaks, but will never forget these moments.

What’s your first memory of truly enjoying or creating music?

URA: At age 15, I never saw my father before until that time, he brought me my first mic & a computer to start making music on, never saw him again after that.

Is there a meaning or story behind your stage name?

URA: The anime Yu Yu Hakusho plays a big part in my stage name, I had a couple of stage names (ART, Trippy Art, Art Sensei) but none that were really original to where people can find me and me alone…so a friend of mine took the the main character’s name “Yusuke Urameshi” and mixed it around and I just added “Sensei”…funny how some who still like my music still refer to me as Art Sensei. 

Your music is based in emotion, was it difficult to be vulnerable through your music as a rapper?

URA: Not at all.

How do you select your beats, are any of your works self produced?

URA: YouTube, sometimes Traktrain and I go by type beats but they usually just become small beats people don’t really mess with and those are the best ones. None of my songs are self produced but that doesn’t mean I couldn’t make it happen. 

 What has been one of your most difficult tasks while building your career? (Finding a studio, looking for shows, beats, etc.)

URA: Looking for someone to do an article on me & looking to get booked for shows even if they’re small shows with 15 people. Where I live it’s hard getting picked when you don’t follow the trends & having an original sound. To most it’s weird..

How have you progressed as an artist since your beginning?

URA: I have so much that I laugh at my older tracks and wondered why did I think this was so good at the time. 

What can we expect from you this year? Will there be a major shift in your sound or approach to how you market yourself?

URA: Honestly….I can’t really say much but new songs, hopefully you might see me in other blogs…as far as marketing, just maybe if I do it correctly. It’s all about chasing the music bag and staying low-key, my brothers taught me that.

Click here to follow Ura Sensei’s musical journey on Spotify.

Ghostin’ Us by Ura Sensei

“Ghostin’ Us” is a refreshing track with a classic sound. Ura Sensei has found his flow and isn’t looking back. His upbeat tempo coupled with snares and piano keys elevate the track. His lyrics are confident, not cocky. As the song’s subject matter unfolds, you sympathize with Ura Sensei and the trouble that comes with filtering through fake love. “Now she loves me, she’s drippin’”. Things are never as good as they seem, “I pull up like that b*tch adore me, but knowing she don’t.”. Ura Sensei may be an artist that we see dive into more storytelling in the future. This song captures the feeling of being ghosted well. There’s the hopefulness mixed with knowing how it’s going to end. Although, everything that happens in between is completely up to you. “Ghostin’ Us” is one of Ura’s biggest single’s to date, accumulating almost 50,000 streams on Spotify alone. With this growing attention, this next move is sure to be his best move

Click here to listen to “Ghostin’ Us” on Spotify.

Topic (6 Pills) by Zeke

”Topic” by Zeke has a sound like no other. The song begins with high pitched whirling and murmuring, resembling a mothership touching down. The beat was created by a producer named Mathias He fuses complimenting, yet contrasting tones between each element. He engineered an obtuse sound and paired it with heavy drums, lifting the grunge-trap essence of the record. Zeke takes this even further with his angry vocals mixed with lighthearted, and a bit random, lyrics. ”6 Pills” proves that there isn’t a sound meant for any genre. An artist can create whatever they want.

Click here to listen to “Topic (6 Pills)” on SoundCloud.

MONOLOGUE by Tommy!

Tommy! puts the assumptions to rest in his new song “Monologue”. He thanks his family for uplifting him throughout his life and the troubling times in his career. He’s honest about his fears and the nightmares that tend to keep him grounded. Though Tommy! has support, he works hard to be self-sufficient in his music. ”MONOLOGUE” has a simple piano-based beat that makes the song just as catchy at Tommy!’s bars.

Click here to listen to ”MONOLOGUE” on SoundCloud.

Always on My Mind EP by Hoodie Rob Uzumaki

Always on My Mind is a two-song EP detailing love and loss that often comes with following your dreams. The title track “Always on My Mind” is produced by Logan Kade and recalls a relationship that simply couldn’t last. His emotional revelations are the focus of this track. The second, “Call Please” is more optimistic, but still realistic, and features a fast tempo beat by 5head with speedy high hats. This quick project is refreshing and surely found its way into the library of many listeners with similar heartache.

Click here to listen to “Always on My Mind” anywhere.

100s by .wav Featuring Tommy Beats

Artists .wav and Tommy Beats have teamed up with producer ZenModeZT for their latest single “100s”. The boys check off a list of haters and wannabes. .wav’s vocals are pitched up, his melodies are at the center of the chorus. Tommy Beats adds a more traditional use of vocal manipulation to glue it together. ZenModeZT does an awesome job of keeping the beat’s tempo steady, yet exciting. The song generates a mellow mood and is perfect for unwinding.

Click here to listen “100s” on SoundCloud.

Gosha by BIGBABYGUCCI

BIGBABYGUCCI is known for his natural and carefree tone. His projects sound as if rapping is just another passionate pass time of his. His music is essential for a time like this when many are cooped up inside their homes. This song is certainly an opportunity for BIGBABYGUCCI to flex,” I ain’t shaking no hands” he says, due to the dishonest attention he’s receiving. This is one of the last single’s before his awaited album A Girl Is A Gun April 16th. There are more eyes on BIGBABYGUCCI than ever, and he’s using that to his advantage.

Click here to listen to “Gosha” on Spotify.