NEW SINGLES —————————

Mississauga, Ontario-based Ghanaian-Canadian singer-songwriter Luna Elle delivers a captivating blend of contemporary R&B and neo-soul on her new single, “Come To Me,” released September 18 through Hot Freestyle Records. Produced by Nonso Amadi and Kevin “Kofo” Ekofo, the track explores intimacy, emotional vulnerability, and the irresistible desire for closeness. Showcasing her soulful vocals and emotional depth, the single offers a glimpse into her artistic vision ahead of her upcoming debut album, Lunar.

Houston singer-songwriter Peyton embraces her Southern roots on her new release, “From The South (Personal),” blending contemporary R&B and soul with her dreamy, distinctive vocals. Raised in Houston, Texas, Peyton developed her musical foundation through early training in vocals and violin, drawing inspiration from gospel, hip-hop, pop, and R&B. Released through PeyDay in 2026 alongside “Don’t Move Fast,” the track also features production from Bryant Troy and ezm.
NEW ALBUM

GRAMMY-nominated artist Johnny Venus has released his debut solo album, The 11th Hour, a 12-track project executive produced by The-Dream and released through Sincethe80s and Epic Records. Expanding beyond his work as one half of EARTHGANG, Venus explores love, healing, spirituality, and personal growth through a blend of progressive R&B, soul, and funk. Introduced by four singles, including “I Want You Back” and “Nightmares,” the album reflects his evolving worldview, celebrating self-love, relationships, family, and community.
PREMIERING NOW

Nigerian Afro-Pop girl group MYST, featuring Mira, Sucré, and Trella, deliver an unapologetic statement with “REAL SHII,” the newly formed trio’s second single. Produced by Dan Akins and Jaytron, the track blends smooth Afrobeats harmonies with energetic UK garage and dance influences. Exploring real-life desires, personal flaws, confidence, and contradictions, the song showcases the group’s fearless attitude and individuality. Accompanying the release, the street-themed visualizer features a stylish walk-and-dance concept that matches the record’s infectious energy

Dave East and super producer Harry Fraud deliver the official music video for “Stay With Me,” a standout track from the luxury edition of their collaborative album, Price of Pain. Directed by @the_infamous_oz, the visual features contributions from artist @charliedovesnyc. The expanded project adds five bonus tracks to the original release and boasts an impressive lineup of guests, including Vado, Benny the Butcher, Styles P, Snoop Dogg, AZ, and Suzi. John Sparkz handled mixing and mastering.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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NOW PLAYING ———————————————————————

With Creole Culture, Dawn Richard completes the musical trilogy that began with 2019’s New Breed and continued with 2021’s Second Line, delivering her first solo album in five years. Inspired by New Orleans’ vibrant musical heritage, the project blends R&B, jazz, electronic dance, soul, reggae and alternative bedroom pop into an eclectic celebration of her cultural roots and personal journey. Standout tracks include “Only Fans,” “Groove City” and “Enough,” which incorporates a subtle nod to Sister Nancy’s classic “Bam Bam.” Rather than relying solely on recognizable references, Richard allows the album’s musical influences to unfold organically, creating a lively, richly layered listening experience best appreciated from beginning to end.

Rising ATL artist Jade Novah returns with “777,” a new R&B single released October 9, 2026, through Let There Be Art Company. Following previous releases “Safe Space” and “90’s Fine,” the singer-songwriter continues her fall-season run with a track centered on transcendent love and music. Novah encouraged fans to “never settle,” teasing an elevated experience that invites listeners to “jump timelines” through her latest musical offering.

Mýa brings retro vibes to “Saturday Night,” a feel-good disco-funk track from her 10th studio album, Retrospect. Blending punchy horns, driving basslines and infectious grooves, the single celebrates the sounds and styles of the ’80s and ’90s. Directed by City James, with creative direction by Derek Brown, the accompanying video captures the spirit of an ultimate house party, inviting fans to embrace nostalgia, dance and enjoy timeless musical joy.

New York electronic soul duo LION BABE, comprising singer Jillian Hervey and producer Lucas Goodman (Astro Raw), serve up style and attitude with “Fashion Week,” a playful disco-house track produced by DJ and songwriter Never Dull. Inspired by the confidence of ’90s supermodels, the accompanying video transforms city sidewalks into a runway, capturing the duo’s fashionable energy following appearances at London and New York Fashion Week.

Los Angeles-based rising R&B and pop artist EJ Ross returns with “Honeymoon,” a new introspective single produced by Jay Versace. Showcasing Ross’s smooth vocals and emotionally charged songwriting, the track explores the excitement of new love and the importance of appreciating a relationship rather than taking it for granted. Centered on living in the moment, “Honeymoon” captures the magic and vulnerability of love’s early stages.

Irish-Nigerian singer-songwriter Olorunns returns with “Tie Your Laces,” a tender new single exploring childhood, family and the emotional challenges of leaving home. The London-based artist, who earned widespread attention in 2024 for her viral cover of the Goo Goo Dolls’ “Iris,” delivers heartfelt vocals on the intimate release. Raised in Ireland in a musical Christian household, Olorunns describes the song as a love letter to her parents, reflecting on their bond and the lasting connection they share despite the distance.

Gospel singer-songwriter Lisa Page Brooks returns with her latest single, “HAND ON ME,” a Gospel-Hip-Hop influenced track released through My Block Inc. The song marks her first release since signing with mega-producer Warryn Campbell’s label earlier this year. Written and produced by Campbell and Eric Dawkkins, “HAND ON ME” reflects Brooks’ personal journey through challenges, resilience and faith. The Gospel legend, who has inspired audiences worldwide since the late 1980s, says the song celebrates God’s presence throughout her life.

Future has released the Cole Bennett-directed video for “Build A Bitch,” featuring a stark black-and-white visual in which he uses animatronics to create his ideal woman from pieces of the iconic Rock-afire Explosion. The song appears on The Real Me , Future’s 12th No. 1 album and 17th R&B/Hip-Hop chart-topper.

Rising R&B singer Sy’Rai Smith has released the official music video for “Mind Ya Business,” a fan-favorite from her debut EP, Cold War , released August 28. In the visual, Sy’Rai pays homage to her mother, R&B superstar Brandy, recreating some of her iconic dance moves. Directed by Damien Sandoval and Shaun Andru, the video builds on the growing buzz surrounding Sy’Rai’s debut project as she continues establishing her own identity in contemporary R&B.

Nigerian singer BNXN explores the discipline, routine and personal costs of success on “16,” the third track from his six-song EP Still In Charge . Released October 1, on Nigeria’s Independence Day, the project features guest appearances from Asake and FOLA. While the EP’s title suggests confidence, the aforementioned track “16” offers a more reflective perspective, examining how years of repetition, ambition and achievement have shaped BNXN’s journey and influenced the person he has become.

In 2006, Keyshia Cole delivered one of the defining R&B songs of the decade with “Love,” an emotional ballad about heartbreak, devotion and the struggle to believe in someone who may not deserve it. Co-written by Cole and producer Greg Curtis, the song appeared on her 2005 debut album, The Way It Is, before being released as the project’s fourth and final single on January 6, 2006. The record held special significance for Cole, who believed it could help her secure a record deal. Her performance of “Love” for A&M Records president Ron Fair ultimately helped her land a contract, setting the stage for her rise as one of R&B’s most recognizable voices. “Love” became Cole’s breakthrough hit, reaching No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 and climbing to No. 3 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. The single was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, cementing its place among her signature recordings. Its heartfelt lyrics captured the vulnerability of loving someone despite infidelity and the fear of not being good enough. Cole’s raw, passionate delivery connected with listeners who recognized the complicated emotions behind trying to hold a relationship together. The song’s success helped establish her as a major force in contemporary R&B, paving the way for further hits, including 2007’s “Let It Go.” The song’s accompanying music video, directed by Benny Boom, added another layer to its appeal, featuring actor and singer Tyrese Gibson as Cole’s love interest. Filmed in various New York City locations, the cinematic clip follows a woman caught between her feelings for a man and suspicions about his criminal activities. The storyline unfolds through a police stop, a news report revealing his involvement in a bank robbery and a final confrontation in which he promises to change. The video became a regular fixture on BET’s 106 & Park, remaining on the countdown for 65 days before its retirement in April 2006. Nearly two decades later, “Love” remains a fan favorite and a powerful reminder of Keyshia Cole’s impact on 2000s R&B.

Last month, North Carolina rapper Rapsody delivered her fifth album, the eloquently titled God Gotta Afro & Gold Hoops, a metaphor for the project’s central themes of spirituality, race, and romantic escapades. From the brash lyrics and unabashed expressions of affection on “Black Love” to the soothing sounds of adoration on “Apple Sauce,” Rapsody explores love and identity with both confidence and vulnerability. Across 15 tracks, the album features guest appearances ranging from Clipse’s Malice to D12 rapper Mr. Porter, who appears on three songs and produced a significant portion of the project, as well as funk pioneer George Clinton. The album also gives Rapsody room to showcase her versatility, blending her lyrical prowess with moments of singing, melody, and emotional nuance. Sonically diverse, God Gotta Afro & Gold Hoops moves effortlessly between hard breakbeats, heavy drum patterns, soulful grooves, and jazzy backdrops. On the introspective “Pretty Birds,” Rapsody asks, “Tell me about heaven,” setting the tone for one of the album’s more reflective moments. Other standouts include the groove-driven “Joyful,” where she wonders what happened to dancing, and “Apple Sauce,” which explores vulnerability, melody, and the excitement of a crush while sampling D’Angelo’s “One Mo’ Gin” and drawing on African spiritual themes. “OMG! (Love To Sun Ra)” and “Pretty Bird / Way R U” further demonstrate Rapsody’s ability to journey into both joyous and poignant emotional territory. Deeply entrenched in truth-telling, healing, odes to Black excellence, and pure, unadulterated hip-hop, God Gotta Afro & Gold Hoops (which was inspired by Rapsody's travel to Ghana and South Africa and recorded across sessions in Africa and Detroit) finds Rapsody embracing every facet of her artistry. It’s a layered, profound, and accessible album that balances introspection with celebration while demonstrating just how much emotional and sonic territory she can cover. Favorite Tracks: "OMG! (Love To Sun Ra)", "Free Ya Mind", "Apple Sauce" & "God Gotta Afro" Rating: 9/10
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OUTSIDE THE STUDIO

Skincare startup Topicals has announced a new round of financing featuring investments from WNBA standout Angel Reese and Nigerian music star Rema. The announcement, made Jan. 7, adds two prominent figures from sports and entertainment to the company’s growing list of supporters. According to Business of Fashion, the funding round also includes other investors from the entertainment industry, although the company has not disclosed the financial terms. Founded in 2020 by Olamide Olowe, Topicals has raised more than $22.6 million since its launch. The brand has gained recognition for combining clinically focused skincare products with culturally relevant marketing and storytelling. Its popular offerings include $22 under-eye masks and a $38 Faded Serum designed to address dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Although many of its products target skin concerns that disproportionately affect people with darker skin tones, Olowe has worked to expand the company’s appeal to a broader audience. Topicals has sold more than one million eye patches and operates in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Nigeria. The company also expanded into France last November.

The Broadway-bound musical adaptation of Beat Stree t, based on the groundbreaking 1984 film, has assembled its principal creative team. The Wiz director Schele Williams will helm the production, while Hell’s Kitchen writer Kristoffer Diaz will write the book. Grammy-winning music supervisor Jason Michael Webb joins the team as music supervisor, arranger and orchestrator, alongside previously announced executive producer and artist Nas. Nas is creating new material for the stage production and expanding the original film’s influential soundtrack. Last month, Nas, Williams, Diaz and Webb collaborated during a 29-hour workshop to develop the musical adaptation. Additional details about casting and the production schedule are expected to be announced in the coming months.

Nigerian singer Sarah Aderibigbe, better known as Ayra Starr, has given fans their first glimpse of her Hollywood acting debut in Children of Blood and Bone . Director Gina Prince-Bythewood shared a behind-the-scenes teaser for the highly anticipated fantasy film on Instagram Monday, offering a look at the production while announcing that the official trailer would be released Tuesday. Prince-Bythewood also revealed that the film is scheduled to arrive in theaters January 15. Although Ayra Starr appears only briefly in the teaser, the footage marks the first visual look at the Grammy-nominated singer portraying a fictional character on screen. The teaser is soundtracked by Tems’ hit single “Me & U,” adding another Nigerian connection to the Paramount Pictures production. The film is based on Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling fantasy novel and represents Ayra Starr’s first time playing a fictional character in a major film.

A Bel-Air spinoff centered on Hilary Banks is in development at Peacock, with Coco Jones set to reprise her role from the hit drama series. Titled Hilary , the potential spinoff comes from writer-producer Tracy Oliver, co-writer of Girls Trip and Little . If ordered to series, the project would make Bel-Air Peacock’s first scripted original to receive a spinoff. Jones portrayed Hilary, Will Smith’s cousin, throughout all four seasons of Bel-Air, a dramatic reimagining of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air . The series followed Will Smith’s transition from West Philadelphia to his family’s affluent Bel-Air home, becoming a breakout hit for the streaming service.
THE DROP ZONE ———————————————————————

Emerging singer-songwriter Chelsea Jordan embraces spontaneity on her latest single “worst case,” out now via Arista Records. Inspired by a true-life encounter with a man she met in Paris, the song recounts Jordan impulsively flying to New York after he invited her to visit. Blending youthful freedom with fearless curiosity, “worst case” celebrates trusting your intuition, taking chances, and discovering that sometimes the biggest risk is not saying yes.

Ghanaian-Nigerian artist Mr Eazi teams with Ghanaian-American singer MOLIY on “Comfort,” a buoyant new single produced by Nigerian hitmaker Ragee. Blending Eazi’s signature Banku Music sound with Afrobeats, dancehall and R&B, the track offers an updated take on his style. Recorded in London, “Comfort” pairs an infectious rhythm with a bass synth melody, while building on MOLIY’s growing international profile following “Shake It To The Max.”

Philadelphia-bred, platinum-certified rapper 2Rare teams with two-time GRAMMY®-nominated R&B star Amerie on “BussDown (1 Thing),” following its viral social media run. Produced by Hitmaka, the track samples Amerie’s classic “1 Thing” and arrives with a vibrant video directed by BAHSPOV. Set inside a neighborhood beauty supply store, the visual blends romance, dazzling choreography and Black beauty culture, pairing nostalgic energy with 2Rare’s charismatic style.

Styles P brings his signature Ghost energy to “Set of P’s,” a hard-hitting freestyle (accompanied by a video) over the instrumental of Fat Joe, Pusha T and Dre’s “Set of Keys.” The track previews his upcoming solo project, Ghost of the Past, Present and Future Vol. 1, due October 30. Indeed, with the single the LOX veteran continues his recent run of releases, following “Ghost Master” and “Compound Ghost” with another dose of gritty street rap.

Chicago R&B rising star BJRNCK turns up the heat with the official video for “Sex On The Beach,” released via Interscope/Geffen Records. Featured on the deluxe edition of her debut album A Girl Like Me, the sultry track captures her carefree “lover-girl era,” blending romance, desire and tropical escapism. The dreamy visual follows BJRNCK on an intimate tropical getaway with her partner. The video holds special meaning, however, as BJRNCK believed she was filming an anniversary-themed romance video, only for the shoot to culminate in a surprise engagement.

Birmingham, Alabama born, U.S. and Italy raised Dani Offline brings her analog R&B vision to life with “ouch!,” a funky, playful single accompanied by a colorful video inspired by classic 1960s and ’70s dating game shows. The songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist draws from jazz and Quiet Storm, blending sensuality, introspection and ethereal vocal improvisation. In the video, she plays the contestant, host and a lineup of potential lovers.

Rising Chicago-bred singer Mirian explores the emotional uncertainty of a troubled relationship on her new single “Wherever U Are.” Blending polished pop with an R&B feel, the singer delivers a vulnerable performance centered on longing, betrayal and the fear of opening up to love. Miriah's smooth vocals capture the confusion of feeling neglected while questioning whether a relationship was genuine. Written and produced by Re Lxuise, the track transforms romantic doubt and insecurity into an intimate, emotionally charged listen.

New Orleans bounce artist and rapper Papiana turns up the confidence on her new single “Lemme Get That". Over a lively, heavy, bass-driven and gritty backdrop, Papiana delivers bold bars about success, lifestyle and leaving fake energy behind. Indeed, Papiana's unapologetic energy matches her assertive lyrics with a flashy ode to luxury sports cars and sexual escapades, making “Lemme Get That” a confident statement of ambition and self-worth.

Miami duo BOYG1RL brings a vibrant blend of electro-pop, reggaeton, baile funk and diasporic EDM to their self-titled debut album. Drawing from the diverse sounds of Black music emerging from Florida, the duo creates an exhilarating, bass-heavy experience built for the club. Produced with contributions from DJ Travella, umru, prblem and others, the album balances polished production with a sense of wildness and hedonism. That energy is especially potent on “power off,” a standout track produced by umru and Heartgaze, where infectious rhythms and pulsating production showcase the duo’s fearless musical identity.
















