NEW SINGLES —————————
Buffalo-born, Atlanta-based rapper Che Noir has released “Urban Essence,” the first single from her upcoming album It Takes A Village, due October 23. Produced by Mobb Deep’s Havoc and featuring Hawaiian emcee/producer/singer The Uce, the track connects generations of raw New York hip-hop with a verbal assault from Che Noir that's highly personal and also reflective of her growth, parenthood, and life experiences while showcasing a new perspective on her artistry.
Queens, NY-born R&B singer-songwriter Mai Anna unveils “Chameleon,” a playful, experimental track about shedding expectations and reconnecting with herself. Created in Joshua Tree with longtime collaborator and producer Solomon Fox, the song blends an elastic, jazz-inflected bassline with Mai Anna’s rich vocals, moving between silky R&B runs and percussive phrasing. “Chameleon” offers another glimpse into the creative range of her forthcoming debut album, Sleepy Eyes.
NEW ALBUM
Multi Platinum Hip-Hop star DDG releases HIT-A-THON, a 15-track album created entirely during his viral seven-day, 24/7 livestream. Released via Epic Records, the project features Lil Yachty, 42 Dugg, Pluto, Real Boston Richey, Bunna B, ian, Domani, and others. Building on his previous livestream’s success, DDG transformed an Atlanta mansion into a creative hub filled with surprise collaborations, viral moments, and unscripted highlights. The project captures the spontaneity and energy that made the livestream a cultural moment.
PREMIERING NOW
Remy Ma teams with powerhouse vocalist Keke Wyatt on “Why I Get Married?,” a soul-inflected Hip-Hop track exploring marriage, regret, emotional isolation, and walking away. Released as part of her surprise EP Alimony, the song uses bridal imagery to portray a relationship’s unraveling through four stages: the dream, the darkness, the drowning, and the walk away. Arriving amid Remy Ma’s highly publicized divorce proceedings from Papoose, the track (which comes days after Pap released his much-talked about 'Jezebel' video) reflects on love, growth, separation, and shattered expectations.
L.A.-based pop songwriter and singer Jae Stephens delivers the vibrant visual for “Crush,” the high-energy opener from her debut album AUDACITY, released via Raedio LLC/Def Jam Recordings. Produced by Dallas Caton with additional production from Lita, the track draws on the percussive snap and hypnotic rhythms of New Jack Swing, especially evoking Janet Jackson’s "Nasty" influence. Directed by Andrew Kim, the visualizer captures Stephens’ confident, alluring energy as she sings about pursuing an exciting new spark.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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Michael Wright, the actor best known for roles in The Five Heartbeats , Streamers, The Principal and V, has died at 70. His wife, Susan Wright, announced his death on Instagram, saying he passed away in Los Angeles on Aug. 19 after heart failure and complications from the degenerative neurological disease Marchiafava-Bignami. Born April 30, 1956, in New York City, Wright appeared in more than 50 films and television productions, including The Wanderers, Sugar Hill and HBO’s Oz . His memorable performance as Eddie King Jr. in The Five Heartbeats showcased his ability to portray a talented singer battling addiction. Wright’s family remembered him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend and extraordinary artist whose work touched generations. In a 2021 interview, he said his goal was always to make his characters interesting and unforgettable.
The first trailer for The Varnell Hill Show, a spinoff of Martin Lawrence’s hit sitcom Martin, has arrived ahead of its Paramount+ premiere on September 1. The eight-episode comedy stars Tommy Davidson as Varnell Hill, whose long-running talk show struggles with declining ratings and an evolving television landscape. Set behind the scenes, the series blends workplace comedy, satire and fourth-wall breaks as Varnell fights to keep his show relevant. Guest stars include Martin Lawrence, Ms. Pat, Deon Cole, Damon Wayans, Mike Epps and Omarion.
Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards has been ordered to pay $14,000 per month in child support to his former partner Alexandria Desroches for their son, Amir, born in 2023. According to court documents obtained by TMZ, the amount was based on Edwards’ reported monthly income of nearly $4.8 million, a significant increase from the baseline payment of roughly $3,200. Desroches reportedly earns about $1,016 monthly and told the court she hopes to finish college to improve her ability to support their child. The judge also ordered Edwards to maintain a $2.6 million life insurance policy naming Desroches as beneficiary and cover more than $21,000 in her legal fees. Edwards acknowledged under oath that he has never met Amir in person and is not seeking parenting time. The order follows a separate child-support case involving ex-girlfriend Ayesha Howard.
Target has removed a Halloween costume from its online marketplace after critics said its design resembled racist minstrel imagery from the 19th century. The “Kids’ Glows Under Blacklight Circus Clown Halloween Costume” drew criticism after social media users compared its enlarged smile, clothing and hand gestures with historical racist depictions. In a statement on Monday, Target apologized, calling the costume offensive and acknowledging that it should never have been sold. The retailer said it would investigate how the costume reached its storefront and determine what changes are needed to prevent a similar incident.
NOW PLAYING ———————————————————————
Ibeyi, the French-Cuban twin sisters Lisa-Kaindé and Naomi Diaz, unleash their powerful energy in the official video for “Moshpit,” from their album Offering. Directed and produced by Corry Van Rhijn and Roman Pichon Herrera, the visual mirrors the song’s heavy, industrial electronic sound. Pounding 808s, synth-driven production, layered harmonies and choral refrains create an intense backdrop as the sisters deliver fierce vocals celebrating transformation, confidence and elemental strength.
Alabama-bred rapper/singer CHIKA unveils the official music video for “Who Shines For The Sun,” released earlier this month, the visual brings her introspective storytelling to life. Originally released as a single in July, the Grammy-nominated artist delivers an emotionally charged track that serves as a “warm hug” for those who constantly pour their energy into caring for others. The song’s reflective production creates space for personal interpretation, while the visual storytelling deepens its comforting and heartfelt message.
Brooklyn, NY-based artist Jourden delivers her new seven-track EP A Tree Grows In Brooklyn, blending hip-hop, neo-soul, alternative hip-hop and Caribbean rhythms influenced by her Bajan and Trinidadian heritage. With a title inspired by Betty Smith’s classic novel, the project explores growth and self-discovery in challenging environments while reflecting Brooklyn’s diverse identity through its sounds and collaborations. One of its most personal tracks, “Cross Colors,” explores grief, identity and shared experiences, underscoring Jourden’s desire to embrace her complexities and evolution.
Rising R&B soul singer BLKPRL returns with “PLEASE,” featuring rapper Really Jaewon (the son of rapper Jadakiss). Produced by BLKPRL and ClickNPress, the smooth mid-tempo track blends soulful R&B with Hip-Hop as BLKPRL explores the vulnerability of opening his heart again after experiencing heartbreak. Centered on the plea, “Please don’t break my heart,” the song captures the excitement and uncertainty of new love while confronting the risks of trust, commitment, and emotional connection.
Atlanta artist Landstrip Chip returns with “Sin For Me,” a temptation-filled collaboration with Grammy-winning rapper Pusha T. Produced by OG Parker, Aye YB and T-WiLL, the track blends a dark, restrained beat, deep bass and crisp percussion with Chip’s smooth, melodic delivery, questioning the depth of devotion. Pusha T brings a colder, calculating presence, using sharp flows and vivid luxury imagery to explore wealth, status and the risks that accompany them.
New Jersey-bred R&B singer/songwriter TheARTI$t gets vulnerable on “Rain,” a reflective R&B slow-burn about wanting back what she may have helped lose. Over layered harmonies and expressive vocal arrangements, she confronts her role in a fractured relationship without disguising the fact that the feelings remain. Released following her DND EP and while supporting Kehlani’s THE KEHLANI WORLD TOUR, “Rain” turns regret into an intimate plea for another chance, capturing the uneasy space between accountability, heartbreak, and hope.
LA R&B newcomer Autumn Paige (now working with Eric Benét’s JBR Creative Group) trades overthinking for open skies on “Sun Drunk,” a breezy, slow-burning single that finds beauty in simply being present. Wrapped in warm production, infectious melodies, and Paige’s rich, intimate vocals, the track feels like a musical exhale—carefree, grateful, and unapologetically content. Following her 2025 debut EP Down the Rabbit Hole, Paige steps into a warmer, more melodic era, revealing a softer confidence and a renewed appreciation for life’s uncomplicated pleasures.
Meshell Ndegeocello has released “With God on Our Side,” the captivating final single from her Blue Note album Synonym. Featuring dual guest vocals from Bill Callahan and mandolinist Chris Thile, the track reconceptualizes Bob Dylan’s folk classic to match its aggressive lyrics with a deeply nuanced arrangement. Ndegeocello praises Callahan’s enchanting voice alongside Thile’s grounded earthiness. Directed by Damani Baker, the accompanying official video features the trio performing together on a simple park bench.
Milwaukee rapper/singer Lakeyah returns with MOTION PACK, a four-track EP marking another chapter in her independent run. The project showcases her confidence, ambition, and determination through tracks including “MS. ROBIN$ON,” “I’M KNOWIN’” featuring KenTheMan, “BREAK ’EM,” and “OLD SKOOL” featuring Bankroll Ni. Throughout the EP, Lakeyah celebrates independence, money, and personal success while delivering sharp bars and self-assured energy. MOTION PACK further establishes her evolving sound and fearless approach as she continues moving forward on her own terms.
Jhené Aiko returns to her latest album, Westside Whimsy , with the Topshelf Junior-directed music video for “Nothing Nice to Say.” The soulful visual opens with Aiko turning on a radio before transitioning to an empty room where she delivers the song with effortless grace. Her spiritually soothing lyrics take center stage, creating an intimate atmosphere that complements the song’s reflective themes. Following the visual for “Ark to Agartha,” the video continues expanding the world surrounding Westside Whimsy .
Critique Pitchfork's review of Chris Brown's BROWN album. Examine issues of bias & journalistic malpractice in music criticism.
For this week’s Throwback Thursday, we revisit Melanie Fiona’s “Give It to Me Right,” the breakthrough single that introduced the Canadian R&B singer to a wider audience. Released in 2009 as the lead single from her debut album, The Bridge, the track was written and produced by Andrea Martin and Rod Argent. Fiona’s smooth vocals and the song’s soulful production helped establish her as a fresh voice in contemporary R&B. “Give It to Me Right” also stood out for its clever connection to classic rock, sampling The Zombies’ 1968 hit “Time of the Season.” The familiar sample is woven into the track’s modern R&B framework, giving the song a distinctive sound that bridges generations. Sent to radio on February 28, 2009, the single became an early career milestone for Fiona and helped set the stage for the release of The Bridge later that year. The song performed well internationally, peaking at No. 20 on the Canadian Hot 100 and No. 41 on the UK Singles Chart. Its accompanying music video also earned recognition, ranking No. 74 on BET’s Notarized: Top 100 Videos of 2009. For Fiona, “Give It to Me Right” marked the beginning of a new chapter after earlier work with the Canadian R&B trio X-Quisite and the duo Renaissance, establishing her as a solo artist to watch.
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
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.
Snoop Dogg’s upcoming biopic Snoop has found its Notorious B.I.G., with SwayvoTwain, born Michael D’Angelo Archer II, set to portray the late Brooklyn rap icon. SwayvoTwain is the 29-year-old son of late R&B stars D’Angelo and Angie Stone. He confirmed his involvement on Instagram Tuesday, September 8, following an initial report by Variety. The Universal Pictures film is scheduled to arrive in U.S. theaters on August 6, 2027. Directed by Hustle & Flow filmmaker Craig Brewer, Snoop is being produced by Brian Grazer alongside Snoop Dogg. The casting of Biggie adds another significant chapter to a film centered on the West Coast rapper’s rise to prominence. Although Snoop and Biggie were associated with opposite sides of hip-hop’s East Coast-West Coast rivalry, the two artists shared a mutual respect and were friendly during the mid-1990s.
The iconic Reebok G-Unit G6 sneakers are back, giving 50 Cent fans and sneaker collectors another opportunity to own a piece of hip-hop history. Originally released in 2003, the sneakers were designed with input from Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson during his rise to superstardom. The rapper recently reflected on the original release, calling the experience “special” and noting that the clean white sneakers quickly became part of the culture. The G6 sneakers were part of Reebok’s high-profile partnership with 50 Cent and G-Unit, which continued until 2006. After years of fans asking for their return, Reebok brought the limited-edition sneakers back in 2026. The updated release maintains the original aesthetic, featuring a low-profile silhouette, leather and suede construction, red-and-blue accents, G-Unit branding and an ice-rubber outsole.
THE DROP ZONE ———————————————————————
Raveena Aurora opens a deeply personal chapter with “Blissed Out,” her first release of 2026 and a soulful reflection on grief, healing and the loss of her mother. Blending contemporary R&B, soul, jazz and Indian-influenced instrumentation, the song gradually moves from sorrow toward a sense of warmth and euphoria. Directed by Grant Spanier, the accompanying video combines intimate archival family footage with scenes of Raveena surrounded by nature, capturing the healing power of memory and the enduring connection between mother and daughter.
Cali-bred jazz flutist, vocalist, and composer Elena Pinderhughes releases “Life Goes On,” a soulful new single featuring acclaimed saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins. Released today, the track blends jazz, R&B, and heartfelt songwriting, showcasing Pinderhughes’ evolving identity as both an accomplished instrumentalist and singer-songwriter. Described by Pinderhughes as deeply personal, “Life Goes On” embraces comfort, openness, and emotional lightness, creating a soft, inviting sound that reflects her artistic growth.
Houston-based contemporary R&B artist Jastin Martin delivers an emotionally raw new single, “Catch Me (Before It’s Too Late),” exploring the vulnerability of taking a leap of faith in love. Written and produced by Martin and Timothy German, known as Sir Tim, the understated ballad captures the fear and excitement of lowering your guard and trusting someone to catch you.
Hip-hop icons Rakim, Kurupt and Masta Killa unite for 'The Godbody', a landmark collaborative album produced entirely by Rakim and Nick Wiz. The project features Rakim’s first solo, self-produced track in 15 years, “A Different Kind,” alongside appearances from Snoop Dogg, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, KRS-One and others. Inspired by Tupac Shakur’s vision of East-West unity, the album celebrates legacy, lyrical excellence, mutual respect and the enduring spirit of “One Nation.”
Trinidadian soca singer and songwriter Nailah Blackman appears to be riding the wave of Yung Miami’s summer hit “Spend Dat” with her latest single, “Bless Me.” A catchy, dance-driven track built around infectious soca rhythms and feel-good energy from the Piccadilly Street Riddim album. The song, produced by Anson Productions, allows Blackman’s sweet vocals to shine throughout as she delivers an unapologetic anthem for women, celebrating independence, confidence and a desire to be blessed financially on their own terms.
Anderson .Paak and Cordae continue their impressive chemistry on “A Good Day,” the first single from their upcoming joint album HEAVY IS THE CROWN . Built around a warm sample of Bill Withers’ timeless 1977 classic “Lovely Day” and inspired by Ice Cube’s “It Was A Good Day,” the track delivers charisma, wit and feel-good energy. Directed by Dave Meyers, the accompanying video finds the duo hanging out, getting into various hijinks around the neighborhood, and showcasing the close-knit friendship that makes their musical partnership so compelling.
London singer and songwriter Joy Crookes teams with Florida rapper Denzel Curry on “Painkiller,” a soulful, left-field collaboration that brings ’90s hip-hop influences together with sweeping, string-laden classic soul. Produced by Dweller and Crookes, the song reflects on a past relationship through disillusionment and tearstained regret, while Curry delivers a restrained performance that complements Crookes’ unmistakably soulful vocals. Directed by Ethan and Tom, the cinematic video captures the chemistry between two artists from different musical worlds.
Gospel icon Kirk Franklin returns with “Thank You For Everything,” a reflective duet featuring Clark Sisters member Karen Clark Sheard. Written and produced by Franklin with Adam Blackstone, the uplifting track pairs their powerful vocals with a soaring gospel choir. The release follows Franklin’s 2026 Black Music Icon honor and 2025 BET Ultimate Icon Award , while marking his latest music since 2023’s Father’s Day , which earned him his 20th Grammy.
Bob Marley & The Wailers’ historic 1976 Hammersmith Odeon residency is captured for the first time on Roots, Rock, Reggae: Live at the Hammersmith Odeon . Released by Tuff Gong/Island/UMe, the 18-track collection features newly mixed performances from the sold-out four-night London engagement. Recorded during Marley’s rise to international prominence, the album showcases extended versions of “Crazy Baldhead,” “Lively Up Yourself,” “War,” and “Get Up, Stand Up.” The set captures the group’s growing stature, including a powerful 30-minute encore, while longtime Marley associate Don Letts contributes a new essay reflecting on the unforgettable performances and atmosphere.