NEW SINGLES —————————
Rising R&B artist TheARTI$t kicks off 2026 with her new single “Shut It Down,” an upbeat yet sensual track that highlights her smooth delivery and magnetic sound. Known for crafting intimate, warm music, she leans into soft melodies and polished production to capture confidence, chemistry, and living in the moment. The feel-good record reflects her evolving artistry while reinforcing her signature style of creating soulful songs that linger long after the music fades.
Nigerian singer/songwriter Ayra Starr has unveiled her new single “Where Do We Go,” produced by ILYA. The Afro-electronic track showcases her deeper, expressive vocals while exploring the thrill of a late-night encounter mixed with introspective questions about what comes next. Starr says the song was long a personal favorite she and her friends played while getting ready. It marks her first solo release since “Who’s That Girl” with Rema and follows a breakthrough year.
NEW ALBUM
Ty Dolla $ign has released his new EP Girl Music Vol. 1 via Atlantic Records, delivering a collection of R&B tracks inspired by music women love. The project features standout songs like “3 Billion” and “Bad B*tch Alert,” plus collaborations with Ronald Isley, Brandy, and Leon Thomas. Ty says the idea began during a dinner in New York and represents a natural return to his classic R&B sound.
PREMIERING NOW
Less than three weeks after surprising fans with the Valentine’s Day release of her single “More Than a Lover,” R&B icon Mary J. Blige has unveiled the song’s official music video. Directed by Nico Scandiffio and filmed at the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, the visual captures Blige passionately singing about the man who has remained by her side through it all. Produced by Camper, the soulful track finds the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul basking in a deep, transcendent romance built on loyalty and unwavering devotion.
West-coast rapper/producer Baby Keem has unveiled the music video for “Good Flirts,” a standout single from his sophomore album Ca$ino. The mellow, slow-burning track features rising singer Momo Boyd, whose smooth vocals anchor the song before a much-anticipated verse from Kendrick Lamar. The visual follows Keem traveling through different locations by bus and was created in collaboration with photographer Renell Medrano and creative collective pgLang.
NOW PLAYING ———————————————————————
Rising Memphis rapper Fresco Trey kicks off 2026 with “Hope,” an uplifting, melodic single that builds on his reputation for introspective, relatable rhymes. Following the grassroots momentum of his last project Meraki (Deluxe) , the track delivers a powerful reminder that “your story isn’t over,” encouraging resilience in uncertain times. Blending lived experience with sharp storytelling, Trey offers a heartfelt anthem that urges listeners to hold onto light and keep writing their own endings.
Four-time Grammy nominee RAYE returns with “Nightingale Lane,” an emotionally charged ballad and the second release from her forthcoming album This Music May Contain Hope, arriving March 27 via Human Re Sources. Moving forward, Raye is set to perform at the BRIT Awards later this month, where she’s nominated for Song of the Year and Best Pop Act, fueled by her global smash “WHERE IS MY HUSBAND!” RAYE is currently on a sold-out European tour and will join Bruno Mars for 27 North American stadium dates.
Alt-R&B duo threetwenty (comprised of Nigerian-American singer-songwriter Ivana Nwokike and Swedish producer Filip Hunter) unveil a striking visual for “undo/redo” from their radiant 10-track project separate from the noise . Directed by New Century Sound and Tamiym Cader, the video mirrors the songs’ meditation on time as both enemy and opportunity. Nwokike’s elastic vocals glide from regret to resolve, culminating in a hopeful refrain: you still have time to undo, redo.
Nigerian newcomer Lyrxx introduces himself with Mystery Rider , a seven-track debut EP packed with melody, heartfelt storytelling, and main-character energy. Exploring love, fantasy, disappointment, faith, and optimism, Lyrxx crafts songs meant to resonate for years. From the romantic pursuit of “OAU Fine Girl” to the hopeful devotion of “Honeymoon in Paris” and spiritually grounded “Safer,” the project captures life’s emotional highs and lows with passion, realism, and vulnerability.
Neo-soul icon Jill Scott returns in striking form with the official video for “Pressha,” another standout from her 2026 album To Whom This May Concern . Set in a dimly lit lounge and directed with moody elegance, the cinematic clip finds Scott confronting a former flame who loved her privately but denied her publicly. Cameos from Niecy Nash, Tasha Smith, and Tyler Lepley heighten the drama, as fans applaud its emotional depth and stunning visuals.
Longtime Bay-area rapper LaRussell continues pushing his artistry forward with his 14-track album Something’s In The Water, executive produced by Grammy winner Lil Jon. Featuring appearances from Marshawn Lynch, Kalan.FrFr, and MALACHI, the project marks his 42nd LP and first release with Roc Nation Distribution. Following his historic Super Bowl LX Tailgate Concert performance, the Vallejo multihyphenate channels that momentum into a fresh, high-energy body of work that honors Bay Area rap’s legacy while carving out his own impactful lane.
Atlanta’s rising R&B voice Lee Vasi returns with her first single of 2026, “Worthy,” a soulful anthem rooted in healing, faith, and self-respect. Known for blending emotional honesty with spiritual depth, she delivers a powerful reminder to choose peace over confusion and recognize one’s value through God’s love. The release follows her nomination at the NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding New Artist, underscoring her growing impact and deepening connection with listeners drawn to her authenticity and message of personal growth.
Milwaukee rapper/singer Lakeyah returns powerfully with her new single “HERSKIII,” launching her first era as an independent artist under a distribution deal with Human Re Sources. The track embodies creative freedom, confidence, and fearless energy, showcasing Lakeyah at her most self assured and unapologetic. Over a raw, hard hitting beat, she delivers sharp bars and commanding flow, creating a playful yet dominant anthem that signals full control, bold ambition, and a defining new chapter ahead.
Rising singer-songwriter Ron E joins forces with Tink for the official video to their standout single “The G.O.A.T.,” featured on his debut album Let Me Explain.. Produced by Grammy winner Hitmaka and directed by WAM in Miami, the sultry visual complements the track’s hypnotic melodies and sensual lyricism. The collaboration highlights Ron E’s emergence as a compelling new R&B voice, blending timeless soul with modern polish.
Canadian rapper/producer Kardinal Offishall returns in full “416” form with the official video for “My Brother’s Keeper,” a heartfelt tribute to loyalty and chosen family. Directed by Teji Sandhu, the 4K visual delivers a clean, story-driven aesthetic that underscores the song’s message: real circles are built on responsibility, not appearances. Blending charisma with maturity, Kardinal balances club-ready instincts and sincere reflection. The release reaffirms his enduring presence, inviting fans to stream the single and experience the full visual statement online.
GloRilla’s recent public clash with her sister Victoria “Scar Face” Woods has ignited a familiar and uncomfortable conversation about fame, family, and financial obligation. Since breaking out in 2022 with “F.N.F. (Let’s Go)” and quickly ascending to mainstream success with charting singles, awards, and a top-five debut album, the Memphis rapper has become one of hip-hop’s fastest-rising stars. But with that success has come an expectation that she must now serve as the financial backbone of an extended family, a burden that too often gets placed on the first person to “make it” out of difficult circumstances. Scar Face’s claims that GloRilla has abandoned family members in need tap into a narrative that success equals permanent responsibility. Yet the evidence suggests a far more complicated reality. GloRilla has publicly shown moments of generosity toward her parents and loved ones, and other family members have stepped forward to defend her support over the years. Her response (including sharing a message of appreciation from her mother and urging her sister to seek employment) may have felt blunt, but it underscored a necessary point: providing help does not mean surrendering one’s autonomy or becoming an endless source of cash for anyone who asks.
For this Throwback Thursday, we’re revisiting the smooth R&B classic “Shake You Down” by Gregory Abbott. Released in August 1986 as the lead single from his debut album Shake You Down, the song quickly became Abbott’s signature hit. The sensual slow jam resonated with listeners and went on to earn platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America. Years later, the track even found new life when it appeared in the 2007 comedy film Are We Done Yet?. “Shake You Down” dominated the charts during its run. The single reached No. 1 on the R&B chart in October 1986 before climbing to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 on January 17, 1987. Its popularity helped it finish as the No. 3 song of the year on the 1987 year-end chart. The hit also crossed the Atlantic, peaking at No. 6 on the UK Singles Chart and spending 13 weeks there starting in November 1986. Interestingly, the song was not originally meant to lead the album—Abbott’s track “I Got the Feeling” had been scheduled as the first single but was delayed and later peaked at No. 56. The track’s sultry vibe matched its theme, which Billboard noted centers on intimacy. Its music video also stood out visually, featuring a unique scrolling effect conceived by director Dominic Sena of Propaganda Films and shot as a continuous photographic image. Abbott even filmed a second version of the video in Rio de Janeiro for the Brazilian TV show Fantástico, helping the smooth classic reach audiences around the world.
British/Nigerian singer-songwriter 9DAYS returns with African Girls Do Cry (Deluxe), a fearless project that fuses intimate lyricism with sleek contemporary production, reaffirming her artistry as both bold and deeply personal. While the deluxe edition preserves the emotional core of her debut, it introduces three new tracks (“Poison Ivy,” “Can I Be Loved?” and “Under Yellow”) that broaden the album’s narrative and sonic scope. Blending introspective songwriting with polished production, these additions sit seamlessly alongside standout originals like “Vida” and the title track. Throughout the album, 9DAYS strikes a careful balance between confessional storytelling and richly textured arrangements. Her smooth, expressive vocals glide over subtle yet engaging instrumentals, creating a sound that feels both modern and emotionally grounded. The new songs add layers of resilience and reflection, exploring themes of identity, love, and self-discovery with notable maturity. Each performance carries warmth and immediacy, drawing listeners into a space that feels personal and sincere. More than an extension of the original, African Girls Do Cry (Deluxe) stands as a compelling statement of 9DAYS’ artistic evolution. The album unfolds with natural cohesion, pairing infectious hooks with quieter, contemplative moments to shape a fluid listening experience. Introspective, empowering, and endlessly replayable, it highlights her growing ability to merge heart, craftsmanship, and authenticity into a body of work that resonates long after the final track. Standout Tracks: “African Girls Do Cry”, “Feels Like Home”, & “Can I Be Loved?” Rating: 8.5/10 - Joy Nkirote
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Snoop Dogg has officially signed on to star in director Eli Roth’s upcoming horror film, marking a new chapter in their longtime creative partnership.
The Detroit Pistons announced last month an expanded partnership with multi-platinum recording artist and Detroit native Big Sean, naming him the franchise’s Creative Director of Global Experience.
Actress and producer Issa Rae and Grammy Award-winning artist Tems have officially become the newest co-owners of San Diego FC, Major League Soccer’s newest expansion team.
THE DROP ZONE ———————————————————————
Produced by actress/singer Cynthia Erivo and her longtime collaborator/composer Scott Alan, rising, independent R&B singer/songwriter Tamera Tyli returns with her new single, “Anything Worth Holding Onto.” The melodic yet emotionally charged track explores resilience in the face of life’s trials and tribulations, highlighting both vulnerability and strength. Blending soul, sensuality, and unwavering determination, Tamera’s powerful vocals anchor the song with striking conviction. With a release this compelling track, we’re eager to hear what she has in store for 2026.
Arizona-based pop/soul singer SheIsHerName joins forces with Kansas City rapper C,W, Da Youngblood for the remix of “Oh My God,” an airy, infectious single that pairs smooth melodies with brash, unapologetic lyrics about love, lust, and relationship goals. The track follows SheIsHerName's eclectic remix project, More Than A Vibe: The Remixes, released last year, and continues to showcase her versatility and growing artistic confidence. Indeed, if she keeps delivering bangers like this, 2026 is shaping up to be a breakthrough year for the rising star
Jamaican reggae sensation Mavado returns to his “Gully Side” roots with “Bad & BBC Rich,” his first release of 2026 and a standout on the WYFL riddim produced by DJ Mac and CrashDummy. The hard-hitting track finds the dancehall star revisiting the wealth-and-status persona that defined his catalog. Directed by TopShootah, the official video marks Mavado's first shoot in over a decade in Cassava Piece, St. Andrew. The release follows his October 2025 return to Jamaica after years away.
Milwaukee rapper DC The Don brings high energy and melodic aggression to The Rumors Are True . The album blends rap, alternative textures and emotional confession, with vocals shifting between sharp flows and sing-song hooks effortlessly. Its charged, youthful production fuels relentless pacing, keeping the project bold and expressive. Now signed to Republic Records, he launches a refined era with “Lie2Me,” produced by LouieOTK and sampling Real Life by ear. From SoundCloud beginnings to genre-blurring ambition, he remains a chameleon in control.
Bruno Mars returns with his first album in a decade, The Romantic , available now, and celebrates with the new video for “Risk It All.” Directed by Mars and Daniel Ramos, the visual shows him fronting a mariachi band, getting married, and basking in domestic bliss. Backed by promises like “For just a chance to win your heart,” the clip captures romance and devotion, as Mars vows to do anything love asks. It follows his hit single “I Just Might” and continues his captivating return.
Dutch singer Natalie La Rose returns with her empowering new single “Not Nice,” featuring Benjamin Fayah and SHAYE. Dedicated to her motherland Suriname in celebration of 50 years of independence, the track reflects her journey of self-discovery and cultural pride. Heavily promoted across YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, “Not Nice” marks a bold new chapter following her 2015 breakout hit “Somebody,” uniting listeners through heritage and strength.
Rising Nigerian singer Ayo Maff delivers inspiration on his new single “God Is Working,” a heartfelt anthem about faith, patience, and perseverance. Blending relatable storytelling with warm, uplifting production, the track reflects on the challenges he has faced while expressing gratitude for his growth. With confident vocals and hopeful lyrics, Ayo Maff reminds listeners that even in difficult seasons, progress is happening behind the scenes and, in time, everything will settle.
After a five-year wait following his last full-length project The Melodic Blue, West-coast rapper/producer Baby Keem returns with CA$INO, an 11-track statement defined by focus and emotional honesty. Shedding excess, he favors precision over sprawl, crafting tightly wound songs that each inhabit their own sonic universe, from glitchy 8-bit textures to smooth West Coast funk. The album dives deep into personal trauma, grief, poverty, racism, and fractured family ties, most strikingly on “I Am Not a Lyricist.” Yet it balances heaviness with charisma on “Circus Circus Free$tyle” and “$ex Appeal.” Standout cut “Good Flirts” pairs Keem with Kendrick Lamar and Momo Boyd of Infinity Song, blending razor-sharp bars with luminous harmonies for a dynamic, memorable collaboration.
Atlanta’s own Jai'Len Josey brings playful power and sensual confidence to the video for “Housewife,” the bold new single from her upcoming debut album Serial Romantic. Released via Def Jam, the sultry visual mirrors the song’s cinematic strings and glossy R&B groove, showing Jai’Len shifting from traditional “housewife” duties like ironing to dancing and singing with commanding self-assurance. The video underscores her message of reclaiming domesticity on her own terms, where submission is a choice, romance is intentional, and modern love is fully in her control.