NEW SINGLES —————————
Evvie McKinney’s latest single, “Believe In Jesus,” featuring Grammy-winner Doe, is a bold, inspiring anthem of faith. With its acoustic, mid-tempo groove and crossover appeal, the song delivers a powerful message of hope, gratitude, and unshakable belief in Christ. Both artists shine vocally, bringing raw emotion and authenticity. It’s simple, memorable, and spiritually uplifting—a much-needed reminder that we’re never alone.
Mya returns with her introspective new single “Face to Face,” blending vulnerability with vintage flair. Teaming up with longtime collaborators Lamar “MyGuyMars” Edwards and Mike & Keys , she channels an ’80s vibe reminiscent of The S.O.S. Band, even interpolating their classic hit. It’s a soulful, synth-laced journey that proves Mya’s artistry only deepens with time.
Rihanna is back with new music—sort of. The pop icon has released “Friend of Mine,” her first new song in three years, as part of the upcoming Smurfs movie soundtrack, in which she also voices Smurfette. Debuting in the latest trailer for the animated film, the track arrives just days after Rihanna revealed her third pregnancy at the Met Gala, fueling even more anticipation for her long-awaited next album. Check out the video for "Friend of Mine" here.
Eric Roberson teams up with Grammy-nominated BJ The Chicago Kid on his soulful new single, “Where You Gonna Go,” now available on all platforms. Co-written and co-produced by Roberson and Rodney Jones, the track blends 70s soul, Detroit hip hop, and gospel influences. Inspired by personal reflection, it encourages self-worth and emotional growth. The music video, directed by Steven Jon, recently premiered on BETSOUL and BET.com, further elevating the song’s powerful, introspective message.
NOW PLAYING ———————————————————————
Leela James delivers a soulful dose of love and hope with her new single “Right On Time,” a smooth, heartfelt track produced by longtime collaborator Rex Rideout. Backed by mellow bass, synth, and drums, James’ rich vocals shine as she sings about love arriving just when it’s needed most. Co-written with Rideout, Ethan Ridings, and Francesca Richard, the song is a timely reminder of love’s quiet magic—perfect for fans old and new as she celebrates 20 years in music.
Summer Walker turns up the drama in the glamorous new video for her single “Spend It,” the second release from her upcoming album Finally Over It. Directed by Lesly Lynch, the heist-themed visual features star-studded cameos from Blac Chyna, Eric Roberts, andP-Valley’s Brandee Evans, Gail Bean, and Miracle Watts. With a high-stakes safe-cracking mission and a surprise twist ending featuring Joanne the Scammer, “Spend It” delivers suspense, style, and signature Summer flair.
Mariah the Scientist, the queen of “Alt&B,” returns with Burning Blue—a heartfelt ballad full of soaring vocals and lush strings. The single signals a bold new chapter ahead of her fourth studio album. Catch her this summer at major festivals, including Lollapalooza and Governors Ball, as she teases what’s next.
Eric Benet's brand new single “Can’t Wait” featuring Keri Hilson has been making a buzz around town, so why not a visual to accompany the hit song? Set in a club/lounge, and featuring a cameo from reniwned DJ D-Nice, the videa adds plenty of flavor for a track that's already proven to be one of 2025's smoothest and sexiest grooves.
"Unconquerable Soul" is the stirring new single from Los Angeles-based R&B/gospel composer, pianist, and singer/songwriter Marcus Anthony Mack. This multi-layered, cinematic track serves as a prelude to Mack's forthcoming album "Whatever Gods" which is set to come out in June.
Veteran R&B artist Trey Songz drops his new single “Gimme a Chance”, which blends sparse, snappy drums and haunting vocals with a slick, melodic half-rap, building to an urgent chorus wrapped in raw, emotional honesty that is Trey's signature..
Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel enlists fellow Jamaican artist Ishwana for a the thumping new single "Woof".
Grammy-winning singer and songwriter Ledisi unveils her 14th studio album, The Crown, via Listen Back Entertainment/BMG. Featuring 11 dynamic tracks, the album blends R&B, soul, gospel, dance, and uplifting grooves to create a timeless, genre-defying sound. Executive produced by Ledisi, The Crown showcases her artistic freedom and emotional depth, living in a space of joy and truth. The project includes contributions from standout producers Rex Rideout, Camper, Ray Keys, and Jacques “JOC” Pierre.
Rising R&B artist RAAHiiM drops his new single “Just Like Me,” his first release since NiiGHTBEFORESERVICE under his new MNRK Music Group deal. The track reflects his emotional conflict between desire and life’s uncertainties. Known for his raw, soulful sound, the Toronto native joins Jessie Reyez’s North American tour this summer. With over 50 million streams on his breakout single “Peak (Fed Up),” RAAHiiM continues to resonate deeply with R&B fans.
Akon shares the visuals for his heartfelt new single, "Never Really Mattered". This single and video gives fans a second taste of Akon's highly anticipated album Not Guilty, set to release in June.
THE LATEST WAVE
R&B icon Eric Benét sat down with WGN TV in Chicago to discuss his upcoming “R&B Invitation” Tour, offering fans a glimpse into his decades-long journey in music. Known for timeless hits like “Spend My Life” and his recent collaboration “Can’t Wait” with Keri Hilson, Benét remains a staple in the genre. His rich vocals and heartfelt songwriting have earned him a devoted following and a respected place in R&B history. In the interview, Benét reflected on the longevity of his career and the passion that continues to drive his artistry. He spoke about his latest project, the 2024 EP Duets, which features collaborations with some of today’s most talented female artists. He also shared his excitement about launching his own record label, JBR, and revealed that a new solo album is slated for release this June. Revisiting his 1999 classic “Spend My Life with You” (featuring Tamia), Benét marveled at how it has become a beloved wedding anthem across generations. Benét also opened up about his Milwaukee roots and the evolution of R&B music. He emphasized the genre’s enduring spirit and expressed optimism about its future, saying that true R&B will always find a way to shine through.
Legendary singer, songwriter, actress, and producer Ann Nesby recently joined the Smitty and Dee Podcast to reflect on her celebrated career and share exciting news about her upcoming project. Best known as the powerhouse lead vocalist of the Grammy-winning group Sounds of Blackness, Nesby has left an indelible mark across R&B, gospel, and dance music. Her transition to a successful solo career earned her multiple Grammy nominations and critical acclaim. In the interview, Nesby opened up about her departure from Sounds of Blackness, revealing that she was actually signed to a solo deal before officially joining the group. She credited hitmakers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis with playing a key role in shaping her path and empowering her artistry. Despite stepping away as a full-time member, Nesby still performs with the group on occasion and treasures the musical legacy they built together. Looking ahead, Nesby announced her return to the spotlight with ANNiversary, a 2025 project filled with original R&B songs. The collection explores themes of love, emotional maturity, and empowerment—hallmarks of Nesby’s soulful voice and message-driven music.
R&B stars Tameka “Tiny” Harris and Kandi Burruss of Xscape recently shared a surprising and emotional story during an interview with The Morning Hustle, revealing that The Notorious B.I.G. apologized to them shortly before his death. The rapper, born Christopher Wallace and widely known as Biggie Smalls, had previously insulted the group on his 1994 track “Just Playing (Dreams),” rapping, “I’ll f--- RuPaul before I f--- them ugly-a-- Xscape bitches.” The offensive lyric had long caused tension between the artists. According to Harris and Burruss, the apology took place at a Soul Train Awards afterparty in March 1997, just minutes before Biggie was killed. “Somebody came—maybe Diddy—and said, ‘Biggie wanna speak to y’all,’” Harris recalled. “He was very apologetic... He said, ‘I don’t know what I was thinking. I’m ugly as hell. Y’all are beautiful. I just wanted to say I apologize.’” Harris said the most shocking part was learning that he died only “20, 30 minutes after that.” Biggie was shot and killed on March 9, 1997, at age 24. By then, he had already become a hip-hop legend with his groundbreaking debut Ready to Die and the posthumous diamond-certified Life After Death.
R&B singer Brian McKnight has filed a defamation lawsuit against fellow artist-turned-influencer Jaguar Wright, accusing her of spreading false and damaging claims about his personal life. According to court documents obtained by TMZ, McKnight alleges that Wright used social media to falsely accuse him of hiring prostitutes and physically abusing them, as well as being violent toward his ex-wife, Julie McKnight. In the lawsuit, McKnight firmly denies all allegations and states that he never abused his ex-wife, nor had any knowledge of her being related to Wright, who claims Julie is her cousin. He accuses Wright of knowingly lying in an effort to tarnish his reputation. McKnight asserts that Wright’s statements amount to defamation of character, which under U.S. law requires proof that the false claims caused actual harm—such as loss of income or damage to reputation. Wright is no stranger to controversy. She previously made headlines after appearing on Piers Morgan’s talk show, where she also made inflammatory claims about Jay-Z and Beyoncé. Following the broadcast, Morgan was reportedly forced to issue an apology and pull the segment after receiving a cease-and-desist letter from the Carters, who allegedly threatened legal action over the false statements.
THE DROP ZONE ———————————————————————
Tamar Braxton returns with a powerful new single, “You On You,” which has debuted at No. 28 on Billboard’s Adult R&B Airplay chart dated May 10. Produced by Tricky Stewart, the track marks Braxton’s 13th entry on the chart and reunites her with the producer behind her 2000 debut hit “If You Don’t Wanna Love Me.” “You On You” follows her 2024 No. 1 duet with Eric Benét, “Something We Can Make Love To,” and continues her streak of emotionally rich, vocally dynamic R&B offerings.
Brooklyn-based producer Allen Chen, known as Aguava, returns with “Flying Fish,” a genre-blending deep house single that fuses Afro-Cuban jazz, bossa nova, disco, and ’90s house. Bright trumpet lines by Paul Giess and danceable keys create an upbeat, sunlit vibe—evoking brunches, lounges, and spontaneous joy. Originally written during sessions for Aguava’s Latin-inspired EP Cuando Sueño, the track didn’t make the final cut but found a life of its own. Its quirky name emerged from Aguava’s past habit of impulsively titling tracks on the spot—this one stuck. “Flying Fish” captures the feeling of movement, memory, and playful musical experimentation.
Hertfordshire’s Owen Saward unveils Belief: Chapter 1, a soulful EP blending classic 2000s R&B with modern flair. Showcasing infectious hooks, rich melodies, and club-ready production, this release marks a bold step in the genre’s resurgence and cements Saward’s growing reputation for emotionally resonant, contemporary R&B.
Jamaican roots reggae rebel Dax Lion drops his hard-hitting new single "Cry, Baby," blending raw emotion with a heavy groove and righteous fire.
GRAMMY-nominated singer Ari Lennox ushers in her “Soft Girl Era” with a dreamy, pink-hued video for her hit single of the same name. Directed by Chris Robinson, the visual features playful choreography, cozy vibes, and bestie energy, all wrapped in Lennox’s signature soul. Fans are loving every second—from the bonnet to the split—as she reclaims softness in style.
Nigerian-American singer-songwriter and record producer Davido’s fifth studio album, 5ive, is a bold, reflective celebration of love, legacy, and resilience. At 32, the Afrobeats superstar looks back on a 12-year reign marked by success, heartbreak, and personal growth. With rich percussion, standout collaborations, and heartfelt lyrics, 5ive leans into romance and introspection—anchored by the regal spoken-word intro from poet Alhanislam.
Harlem-based visionary Candice Hoyes returns with “Far Away Star,” a powerful jazz reinterpretation of a Swedish traditional song, inspired by Duke Ellington’s 1978 recording. Collaborating with Grammy-winner Ted Nash, Hoyes delivers soaring opera-infused vocals and original lyrics that explore Black ancestral history, justice, and freedom—marking a stirring and genre-blending start to her year.
Singer/songwriter/producer Zyah Belle drops the video for her feelgood groove ‘About Time’. The track is accompanied by a party-themed video directed by Ben Reilly and co-starring R&B singer Lekan. “About Time” follows Belle's recent singles "1-800-Heartbeark” and "LYIN.”
Ghanaian-American singer/songwriter Moliy teams up with Skillibeng and Shenseea for the video/remix of “Shake It to the Max (Fly),” produced by Silent Addy. The dancehall-Afrobeats fusion debuted at #16 on Billboard’s US Afrobeats chart, marking another chart entry for both Jamaican stars, who’ve previously collaborated with Tyla and Fireboy DML.