Nearly 30 years into his celebrated music career, Grammy-nominated R&B and soul vocalist Calvin Richardson returns with “Radio Rodeo,” a genre-blending single that could introduce the “Soul Prince” to an even wider audience. Known for channeling generations of rich soul and Southern musical heritage, Richardson delivers a fresh yet timeless sound on the track, which serves as the first preview of his upcoming studio project and another reminder of his enduring artistry.

Ben September returns with “Samba,” a vibrant Afro-influenced R&B single that explores love, vulnerability, and the misunderstandings that can complicate relationships. Blending emotional honesty with upbeat samba-inspired rhythms, the track marks a subtle shift toward a more expressive and energetic sound. Inspired by the feeling of the beat itself, Ben crafted the song organically while also challenging himself by writing parts in his mother tongue. “Samba” also serves as an early glimpse into the creative direction of his upcoming EP.

Zambian-born London-based singer/songwriter Hil St Soul returns with Nasalifya (Thank You), an 11-track neo-soul album rooted in gratitude, spirituality, and emotional healing. Executive produced by longtime collaborator Regi Myrix, the project includes previously released singles “Back In Tha Day,” “I’m Done,” and the heartfelt title track, inspired by her late father, the album warm vocals with upl blendsifting themes, the album continues Hil St. Soul’s signature sound while exploring love, resilience, and social reflection on songs like “Good Vibes” and “The System Is So Broken.”

After years away from releasing a studio album, Chaka Khan returns in giant fashion with the playful new video for “Chakzilla.” Co-written by Sia and produced by Greg Kurstin, the dance-pop anthem reimagines Godzilla with a kinder heart. Instead of destroying the city, 'Chakzilla' uses her massive presence to help people and fix problems, reflecting Khan’s real-life personality and uplifting spirit while delivering humor, energy, and a larger-than-life visual experience.

Mýa taps into late-’80s funk and R&B nostalgia on her new single “Just a Little Bit,” featuring West Coast rap icon Too $hort. Released through her Planet 9 label, the groove-heavy track blends classic soul influences with hip-hop flair, while production comes from MyGuyMars and Mýa herself. Directed by City James for Basewood Productions, the visual delivers a stylish retro vibe as Mýa gears up for the release of her upcoming studio album, Retrospect.

Kodak Black, born Bill Kapri, was arrested this week in central Florida on a felony drug trafficking charge involving MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy or molly. The 28-year-old rapper was booked into the Orange County Jail on Wednesday and entered a written plea of not guilty the following day while requesting a jury trial. Court records show Kapri also waived his appearance for a future arraignment hearing, with bond set at $75,000. The arrest stems from a November police encounter in Orlando after residents reported hearing gunshots in a neighborhood where officers discovered a group gathered around several luxury SUVs. According to a police report, officers detected the smell of cannabis coming from a Lamborghini SUV and spotted a white substance on a $100 bill inside the vehicle, prompting a search. Investigators allegedly uncovered a pink bag containing MDMA, $37,000 in cash, and documents bearing Kapri’s name. Authorities later linked the bag to photos previously posted on Kapri’s Instagram account, noting similarities including a distinctive lighter seen in both the vehicle and the social media images. While everyone at the scene reportedly denied ownership of the bag, Kapri allegedly claimed the cash belonged to his business and requested its return. The arrest adds to a series of past legal issues for the rapper, including a 2023 incident in Plantation, Florida, where he was found asleep behind the wheel with what was later determined to be prescribed oxycodone, not cocaine as initially suspected.

Tyla is clearing the air after social media erupted with speculation that Rihanna ignored her during the 2026 Met Gala. A viral clip from the event showed Tyla standing nearby while Rihanna appeared focused on another conversation, leading fans to accuse the superstar of snubbing the “Water” hitmaker. However, Tyla quickly shut down the rumors online, explaining there was no tension and that Rihanna simply seemed occupied during the event. According to Tyla, the interaction mirrored a previous encounter she had with Rihanna at another event last year. The singer recalled that Rihanna was busy at the time before eventually leaving after mentioning that A$AP Rocky had called her. Tyla emphasized that she never took the interaction personally and suggested the same thing happened again at the Met Gala, where she chose not to interrupt Rihanna while she appeared engaged elsewhere. She even joked online that she hopes “the third time’s the charm” so they can eventually connect properly.  The speculation intensified after Rihanna later posted a social media video featuring Ayra Starr’s song “Who’s Dat Girl,” prompting renewed fan debates between supporters of Tyla and Ayra Starr. Despite the online discourse, both artists have repeatedly denied rumors of rivalry or bad blood. Tyla also addressed the viral Met Gala clip during a TikTok interaction, once again insisting there was never any issue between her and Rihanna.

For this Throwback Thursday spotlight, we revisit “Heard It All Before” by Sunshine Anderson, a defining anthem of early 2000s R&B. Released on February 27, 2001, as the lead single from her debut album Your Woman, the track (written by Anderson alongside Rayshawn Sherrer, Chris Dawley, and producer Mike City) captured the frustration of dealing with dishonesty in relationships. Its relatable message and smooth yet assertive delivery helped it crack the top 10 on the UK Singles Chart and the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop chart, while peaking at No. 18 on the Hot 100. Years later, the song found new life through a long-rumored remix featuring Brandy. Originally recorded in 2001 during sessions with Mike City, the duet remained unreleased until it surfaced online in 2006, before a high-quality version officially dropped via SoundCloud in 2016. Together, both versions underscore the lasting appeal of a song that still resonates with anyone who’s ever had enough and isn’t afraid to say it. Directed by Nzingha Stewart, the video for “Heard It All Before” brings the song’s emotional tension to life with a relatable, intimate storyline. Sunshine Anderson is shown confronting her unfaithful boyfriend before retreating to her apartment, where she reflects on the relationship. As she lounges on a couch and pours her emotions into the performance, visits from friends add a sense of support and realism, reinforcing the song’s theme of knowing your worth and walking away.