NEW SINGLES  —————————

By Cleon Alert July 3, 2025
RAAHiiM returns with his new single “Falling Off” featuring Bay Swag, blending smooth vocals, emotional lyrics, and a modern R&B sound. The track explores love, distance, and fading connection, continuing the momentum from his recent release “Just Like Me” and cementing his rise as a standout new voice in R&B.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff July 3, 2025
French DJ/producer David Guetta, international producer A7S, and Wizkid join forces on the vibrant summer anthem “Lighter.” Blending their signature styles, the track delivers energetic, feel-good vibes just in time for the season. This standout collaboration highlights each artist’s talent, resulting in a refreshingly unique and unforgettable summer hit.

NEW ALBUM  —————————

By Status Ain't Hood Staff July 3, 2025
Rising Mumbai-based artist Joshua Singh’s drops a new 5-track EP called Bheegein, where he mixes his signature blend of Hindi pop and alternative influences. Known for his work with Sonu Nigam and indie band Spud In The Box, Singh brings emotional depth and sonic richness to each track. For example, the standout cut "Love Letter" features layered vocals and immersive production while also showcasing Singh’s musical craftsmanship and heartfelt lyricism.

PREMIERING NOW

By Status Ain't Hood Staff July 3, 2025
Rising singer-songwriter-musician Aneesa Strings unveils captivating visuals for her new single “All In My Mind,” from her EP The Calm, released via SRG-ILS (Universal Music Group/Virgin Music). The track, described as her “love letter to money,” was born during a tough financial time. Directed by Justin Joo and Kalhu Jay, the video features Aneesa hanging upside down with her bass, symbolizing emotional disorientation. This striking imagery mirrors the song’s themes of doubt, longing, and the search for balance through music.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff July 3, 2025
Capleton & Queen Omega record a special dubplate of the songs "Touch Ina Di Place" & "Cooyah Cooyah" for Irie Ites Sound on Bun Dem Riddim. The vibes are so good here that it even makes Capleton smile.

NOW PLAYING  ———————————————————————

By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 30, 2025
In a clear sign that she's definitely over her recent divorce from former NBA star Iman Shumpert, Teyana Taylor and new beau Aaron Pierre , lay in a “Bed of Roses” in the music video for the song (from Teyana's upcoming album 'Escape Room'). The visual starts with a monologue by Issa Rae , who takes the time to assure her lover that he is in a safe space and can open up.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 30, 2025
British singer and songwriter Sasha Keable’s new single “Feel Something” is a bold, emotionally charged anthem about craving real connection while healing from toxic love. Her rich vocals, rap-infused delivery, and gospel-tinged chorus create a powerful mix. Gritty production details and raw lyrics amplify the urgency, making it a fearless and unforgettable performance.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 30, 2025
Longtime Jamaican reggae artist Sizzla unleashes his romantic side in the new video for 'So In Love', a track the musician released on streaming platforms last week.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 30, 2025
Detroit-born singer/songwriter Elijah Connor’s new single “Therapy” is a sultry, emotionally rich slow jam from his upcoming album The Book of Eli, arriving August 22, 2025. Blending moody production, sensual lyricism, and a smoky vocal performance, the track explores intimacy and emotional healing, offering a bold, grown-up R&B experience crafted with help from Mario Winans.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
After a two-year break, Ghanaian-American artist Amaarae is back with the visuals for “S.M.O.” (aka “Slut Me Out"), a sexually-explicit jam that as the artist tells it was inspired by everything from Ghanaian 80’s highlife trailblazer Ata Kakto to Janet Jackson's classic track 'Pleasure Principle'. l, and jazz. Produced by The Indiggnation and Winta James, the track explores romance and connection ahead of his summer tour kickoff. As seen here, the accompanying video (directed by Samo), offers a sonic escape for the summer.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
His first release since his 2024 fan-pleasing EP ‘Ikigai, Nigerian singer/songwriter Olamide returns with the eponymously-titled new album 'Olamide', a 17-track opus that's filled with plenty of bangers for the summer. 
By Cleon Alert June 27, 2025
NYC singer, songwriter and actress Tiffany Evans returns with her deeply personal new single, “Hope You Understand Me,” a moody, Jodeci-inspired slow jam produced by Dreek Beatz. Written solely by Evans, the track explores vulnerability and the desire to be truly heard, marking a powerful reintroduction as a fully independent and emotionally honest artist.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
R&B singer/rapper Tink returns with “Can We Talk,” a smooth, sensual track produced by Hitmaka. While Tink flexes her signature rap style on the single, Bryson Tiller adds R&B flair on the hook. Though no album is confirmed yet, the song has Tink fans buzzing with hope for a full project soon.
By Status Aint Hood Staff June 25, 2025
Rising R&B artist Autumn Paige follows up her acclaimed debut EP with Down The Rabbit Hole (Acoustic), a stripped-back release now available on all digital platforms. Featuring acoustic renditions of fan favorites like “Topless” and “Baggage,” the EP highlights Autumn’s standout vocals over bright guitar arrangements by Josh Goode and Emile Ghantos. The project also adds new depth to her genre-blending sound and growing discography. Autumn will celebrate the release with a live acoustic performance at NORMA in West Hollywood on June 25, joined by The Voice finalist and American Idol alum Renzo for the venue’s “Serenade” series.

NEXT UP


NEWS & NOTES


By Cleon Alert July 2, 2025
Sean “Diddy” Combs was acquitted Wednesday of the most serious charges in his high-profile federal trial, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. The jury, after three days of deliberations in Manhattan federal court, found the 55-year-old music mogul not guilty on one count of racketeering conspiracy and two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion. However, Combs was convicted on two lesser counts of transporting individuals to engage in prostitution. The verdict was met with emotional reactions in the courtroom. Combs, who did not present any witnesses in his defense during the seven-week trial, dropped to his knees in prayer after the verdict. His family clapped and embraced one another, with his attorneys visibly moved—Teny Geragos wept, and lead attorney Marc Agnifilo raised a fist in triumph. Outside the courthouse, a chaotic celebration erupted among Combs’ supporters, including chants of “Free Puff!” and a spectacle involving baby oil, referencing explicit testimony heard during the trial.  Despite avoiding the most serious charges, Combs still faces significant prison time. Prosecutors earlier stated they will seek the maximum sentence of 10 years per count, totaling up to 20 years, though it’s now been reported they may ultimately push for a five-year term. Agnifilo has requested Combs’ release from federal detention, offering a $1 million bond and home confinement in Miami. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian said he would consider the motion following arguments from both sides later in the day.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 30, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 26, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood June 25, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 23, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 19, 2025
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NEWS & NOTES


By Cleon Alert July 2, 2025
Sean “Diddy” Combs was acquitted Wednesday of the most serious charges in his high-profile federal trial, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. The jury, after three days of deliberations in Manhattan federal court, found the 55-year-old music mogul not guilty on one count of racketeering conspiracy and two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion. However, Combs was convicted on two lesser counts of transporting individuals to engage in prostitution. The verdict was met with emotional reactions in the courtroom. Combs, who did not present any witnesses in his defense during the seven-week trial, dropped to his knees in prayer after the verdict. His family clapped and embraced one another, with his attorneys visibly moved—Teny Geragos wept, and lead attorney Marc Agnifilo raised a fist in triumph. Outside the courthouse, a chaotic celebration erupted among Combs’ supporters, including chants of “Free Puff!” and a spectacle involving baby oil, referencing explicit testimony heard during the trial.  Despite avoiding the most serious charges, Combs still faces significant prison time. Prosecutors earlier stated they will seek the maximum sentence of 10 years per count, totaling up to 20 years, though it’s now been reported they may ultimately push for a five-year term. Agnifilo has requested Combs’ release from federal detention, offering a $1 million bond and home confinement in Miami. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian said he would consider the motion following arguments from both sides later in the day.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 30, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 26, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood June 25, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 23, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 19, 2025
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THROWBACK THURSDAY


By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 26, 2025
The second single from Shabba Ranks 6th studio album 'X-tra Naked', "Ting-A-Ling' stands as one of the dancehall icon’s most infectious tracks. Built on the classic “Stalag” riddim, the song blends Shabba’s commanding delivery with a playful, energetic hook that quickly became a staple in clubs and sound systems worldwide. “Ting-A-Ling” showcases his signature mix of braggadocio and rhythm, helping solidify his status as a global ambassador of dancehall music during its early '90s crossover surge. The track remains a fan favorite and a vibrant reminder of Shabba's impact on the genre’s golden era.
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ALBUM REVIEW


Bootsy Collins - Album of the Year #1 Funkateer

SEARCH


SOUL CLAP


OUTSIDE THE STUDIO

By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
Nelly and Ashanti are embracing their second chance at love—and inviting the world along for the ride. The iconic hip-hop couple, who first began dating in 2003 and split a decade later, have reunited in a big way with a new reality series, Nelly and Ashanti: We Belong Together, now streaming on Peacock.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
The legacy of reggae legend Bob Marley comes to life in a groundbreaking new attraction set to debut at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. Titled Bob Marley Hope Road: The Experience, the immersive production combines cutting-edge storytelling, design, and performance to honor Marley’s enduring message of uni
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 27, 2025
The plaza outside Paris’ Pompidou Center erupted in sound and spectacle on Tuesday as Pharrell Williams unveiled his latest Louis Vuitton menswear collection in a jaw-dropping display of fashion, culture, and celebrity. Beyoncé and Jay-Z headlined the front row alongside stars like Bradley Cooper, J-Hope, Karol G, Futu
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 26, 2025
Grammy-nominated singer and culinary entrepreneur Kelis Rogers, best known for her 2003 hit “Milkshake,” has quietly begun a transformative new chapter—leaving behind Hollywood life for the rich soil and vibrant culture of rural Kenya. Now a legal resident, Kelis is channeling her talents into sustainable farming, well
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THE DROP ZONE  ———————————————————————

By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 25, 2025
Protoje, the two-time Grammy-nominated Jamaican reggae artist, has released his new single “Feel It,” a smooth blend of reggae, soul, and jazz. Produced by The Indiggnation and Winta James, the track explores romance and connection ahead of his summer tour kickoff. As seen here, the accompanying video (directed by Samo), offers a sonic escape for the summer.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 25, 2025
East-coast R&B artist Day Lee returns with “Feel At Peace,” a vulnerable, romantic single from his upcoming EP. Blending emotional lyrics with atmospheric production, the track explores intimacy and longing with smooth, sensual charm. Paired with a moody black-and-white video (available on YouTube), the release captures late-night escapism and heartfelt devotion, continuing the tone set by his previous single, “Fill The Void.”
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 25, 2025
Global Afrobeats star CKay releases the official video for “forever,” a romantic highlight from his CKay The Second EP. Set in a rustic Mexican village, the video features heartfelt visuals, a mariachi band, and a touching Titanic-style balcony scene. With lush Spanish guitars and soulful lyrics, “forever” celebrates lasting love, connection, and emotional vulnerability.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 25, 2025
Longtime R&B vet Lady Wray (fka Nicole Wray) is back with her new single "You're Gonna Win", a positive, funky track with an added disco vibe from her new album 'Cover Girl' which is out now on your favorite streaming platforms.
By Cleon Alert June 23, 2025
From his recent album Just a Matter of Time, Billboard chart-topping singer-songwriter, J. BROWN secures his third consecutive #1 Billboard R&B song with his latest single, "True Love".
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 23, 2025
Keke Palmer’s third album Just Keke is an 18-track visual project exploring her personal journey through fame, motherhood, and self-growth. Executive produced with Tayla Parx, the album centers on Palmer’s vulnerability, especially her relationship struggles, offering a raw, emotional look at life in and beyond the spotlight.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 23, 2025
In the single/video for 'Spin Cycle', (from her latest album do it afraid) Brooklyn neo-soul artist Yaya Bey reflects on the exhaustion of juggling work and love, yet finds comfort in the relationship’s rare sweetness. The phrase “spin the block” symbolizes revisiting love with renewed effort and a deeper commitment to growth.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 23, 2025
Queen of Neo-soul Erykah Badu and legendary hip-hop producer The Alchemist are a Dream Team on Ethereal new single "Next To You", the first glimpse into their upcoming ‘Abi & Alan’ collab album. Check out the video here.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff June 23, 2025
Grammy-winning producer Harmony Samuels, aka H-Money, has released “Sweet Gurl,” a new single featuring Rotimi and Ne-Yo. Blending AfroSoul and contemporary R&B, the track showcases rich harmonies and emotional depth, marking a fresh chapter in H-Money’s artistry through his genre-blending FRO&BEE Show.