by Jonathan P-Wright | Sep 8, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
On a somewhat ordinary Wednesday night, a rare celestial event took place, one that we won’t witness again until 2037. As the world looked upwards, a super blue moon illuminated the night sky, offering a breathtaking spectacle. In sync with this astral phenomenon, the fearless and talented Coi Leray launched her new EP, appropriately named “Blue Moon“. This EP was not just a musical offering, but a celebration of the rare lunar event, a soundtrack to the cosmic vibes that resonated globally.
“Blue Moon”: A Soundtrack to the Skies
Creating a perfect harmony between celestial occurrences and musical rhythm, “Blue Moon” served as a fitting tribute to the rare super blue moon event. Offering a collection of five tracks, the EP was a treat for Leray’s fans, establishing a unique connection between the music and the moonlit night.
Coi Leray: The Jersey-based Luminary
Hailing from New Jersey, Coi Leray’s musical prowess has been a beacon of talent in the industry. Her audacity and unapologetic approach to her music have garnered her a dedicated fan base. With “Blue Moon”, she once again proved why she is an artist to watch.
“Isabel Morant”: A Visual Treat
Coi Leray didn’t just stop at the EP. She also released a stunning visual for the standout track “Isabel Morant”. The creative minds behind the video, Mathking64 and Rocketboy, captured Leray’s essence perfectly. The video showcases Leray’s unabashed expression of wealth, success, and the joy of outdoing her rivals.
“Yeah I’m on they a**, hop up on that couch and roll up Latto out the bag, I don’t need a stylist, they can’t f**k with Coi Leray, tried to count me out, and now I’m big as Trippie Redd, woo, I hope I don’t crash, scrapin’ up the rim up on that sidewalk, ride it fast, I can’t wait to pour up and cook up, up in that lab, this that brand new ring, Denim Tears, LV tags…”
The music video, directed by Michael Vincent, presents Leray in various settings, from a bathtub to deep waters, and even amidst a mob of her supporters. Each frame is a testament to her bold personality.
“COI”: The Sophomore Journey
Earlier in June, Leray released her second LP, “COI”. The 16-song album featured collaborations with renowned artists like David Guetta, Saucy Santana, Giggs, Lola Brooke, Skillibeng, and even the late James Brown. With tracks like “Players”, “Bops”, “My Body”, and “Run It Up”, the album was a resounding success.
Leray’s Recent Collaborations
Leray has also been involved in notable collaborations recently, contributing to tracks like Dave East’s “Sex So Good”, Roy Woods’ “Hate Me”, Metro Boomin’s “Self Love”, RAYE’s “Flip A Switch. (Remix)”, and OhGeesy’s “Better Together”.
Wrapping Up: A Celebration of Music and the Moon
The “Blue Moon” EP and the “Isabel Morant” video release are prime examples of Coi Leray’s bold approach to music. She is not just creating songs, but experiences, linking her art to the world around her. As we wait for the next super blue moon, we can enjoy the lunar vibes from Leray’s “Blue Moon”. Press play and let the music transport you to the night sky, under the light of the super blue moon.
by Pharron Fields | Sep 7, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
As we inch towards the twilight of the summer season and prepare to embrace the crisp ambiance of fall, it is impossible to ignore the mellifluous voices that have serenaded us throughout the season. Mercury may still be in retrograde, but the musical cosmos is in perfect alignment, offering us an array of harmonious compositions that perfectly complement the changing seasons. As the sun sets on Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour, we find solace in the new creations by some of R&B’s most talented artists, helping us transition smoothly into the new season.
Among the myriad of voices, one stands out – Jorja Smith. Her long-awaited sophomore album’s title track has been shared, and it’s as emotion-inducing as Ama Lou and Xenia Manasseh’s debut albums. While we patiently wait for Chase Shakur’s debut LP, he ensures his fans are well-fed with the deluxe edition of his EP. Keke Wyatt is making a stealthy re-entry into music with the lead single from her first album in six years. Additionally, male crooners like Eric Roberson, Lendryx, Landon Thomas, and Beharie are guiding us down a soothing path that’s deeply essential.
Jorja Smith – “Falling or Flying”
Jorja Smith, who welcomed the summer with her singles, “Little Things” and “GO GO GO,” has now unveiled the title track from her highly-anticipated sophomore album, “Falling Or Flying.” During a conversation with Zane Lowe from Apple Music, Smith confessed that this track is currently one of her favorites, depending on her mood.
Smith elaborated, “This song always takes me on a journey, so right now it’s one of my favorites. Maybe because it’s coming out. But it’s funny though because that song started out completely different with me and the producers. It’s the first song we actually ever started together but it didn’t have the chorus before, and we moved everything over and did all sorts to it, and then we got this chorus. But the song has nothing to do with the album title. It’s just called that.”
The music video for “Falling or Flying” also marks Smith’s directorial debut. She had always dreamed of shooting a video in space, and this song gave her the perfect opportunity to fulfill that dream. She candidly mentioned that she wanted to journey into space with someone she loved and cherished, but they didn’t reciprocate her enthusiasm.
Smith’s new album is set to release on September 29, and music enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for the release.
Ama Lou – “I Came Home Late”
Ama Lou’s debut album, “I Came Home Late,” is a testament to her profound songwriting skills. With an assortment of 15 tracks, including previously released singles “Silence” and “Caught Me Running,” the album paints a vivid picture of Lou’s artistic range.
Lou began songwriting at a tender age and released her debut single, “TBC,” in 2016, which caught the attention of Drake and heavily influenced his 2018 album, “Scorpion.” She has since dropped three EPs, providing fans with a taste of her depth before unveiling “I Came Home Late.”
Chase Shakur – “It’s not you, it’s me… it’s love”
Chase Shakur continues to tantalize his fans, who are eagerly waiting for his debut album, with the release of his deluxe EP, “It’s not you, it’s me… it’s love.” The EP follows the highs and lows of a tumultuous relationship, providing an insight into the male perspective of an emotionally-charged romance. The captivating follow-up includes three new tracks: “nite,” “exit 65,” and “you’re so lovely.”
Shakur has clarified on his Instagram that “this is NOT the album,” and is looking forward to performing these tracks live on his “It’s Still Love Tour.”
K. Michelle – “Blame Yourself”
K. Michelle is gearing up for the release of her final R&B album, “I’m The Problem,” and has shared the LP’s fourth single, “Blame Yourself.” The introspective track urges women to take some accountability and introspect whether they are the problem in their relationships.
The Memphis native sings, “You’re playing the victim all because he made you look stupid/ ‘Fore you put the blame on everybody else/ Point to the mirror and blame yourself.” Her honest and heartfelt lyrics echo the album’s premise.
Back in May, K. Michelle candidly expressed on Instagram, “I am the problem. Took me so long to solve ’em.” In a recent interview with The Shade Room, she added, “I’m gon’ be the problem regardless. The industry gonna label you. It doesn’t matter. I could try to change; I could be better, [but] no matter what I do, I’m a problem because I still stand for what I stand for and I am how I am. It just is what it is.”
LAYA – “Bet That”
LAYA’s long-awaited new EP, “BET THAT,” is finally here. The seven-track project is a confident flex, proving that LAYA is in charge of her world and isn’t budging one bit on that matter. The unapologetic anthem, “F’d Up,” set the tone for the EP, and the Staten Island, N.Y. native continued that momentum with “I Ain’t Playin’,” title track, “Bet That,” and the manic yet soulful “Psycho Bitch.”
The EP succeeds her debut EP, “Um, Hello.” If you’ve been missing out on this rising star, consider this an alert to wake up.
Raiche – “Big Daddy”
Raiche’s new single, “Big Daddy,” is a breath of fresh air as she addresses an alternative perspective from records like Usher’s “Hey Daddy (Daddy’s Home).” Her soothing, distinct tone captivates listeners as she sings, “You just stepped in/ What you bout to prove/ Big daddy, come take real good care of me/ Say that’s what you can be […] You know what your baby needs/ Just come through.”
The singer, with her soulful roots and alternative pop flair, recently performed at 2023’s Atlanta Funk Fest. Since her debut single in 2018, she has amassed over 20 million international streams and has been featured in Netflix’s Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker and on The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Beharie – “We Never Knew”
Beharie is a dream we never knew we needed. Our introduction to the Norwegian crooner is his latest single, “We Never Knew.” The idyllic production is a somber reflection on a forever love that’s now non-existent.
The singer explains, “In the heat of it all. When you lose yourself in it. How things made sense, and how the bad things were ignored. But little did we know that we would end up being strangers.”
The record stems from his in-depth exploration of varying identities as heard on his upcoming debut album, “Are You There, Boy?,” set to arrive on October 20. Of the album, he explains in a statement, “This album has given me the opportunity to delve into various aspects of my own identity, and in the process, I have explored the complexity inherent in my personality and expression.”
Eric Roberson – “I Apologize”
Eric Roberson is honoring the indie R&B movement with a series of new monthly releases. “I Apologize” is the second single of the series, inspired by what the crooner considers to be his “creative gumbo.”
Co-written and produced by Jairus Mozee, Brett “B Dubb” Baker, Rodney Jones, and Roberson, the latter explains in a statement, “The song is inspired by the creative gumbo that feeds my music. The theatrical musicality of Stevie Wonder, heartfelt word play of urban contemporary gospel group Commissioned, and the unapologetic low-end approach of A Tribe Called Quest.”
Marzz – “In The Morning”
Marzz is back! Two years after the release of their debut EP, Love Letterz, and its subsequent deluxe installment, the singer’s impassioned new single, “In The Morning,” hypnotizes us once more.
“This song represents a feeling of waiting until the morning, getting excited of the unknown,” they explained in a statement. “It’s the wishful understanding of everything within a relationship. Sometimes we need understanding about falling in love when we’re not sure.” Ultimately, Marzz hopes their music encourages listeners to “create their own narratives” but in a magical way.
Landon Thomas – “Anything”
Landon Thomas may be new to us, but R&B is embedded in his DNA. With the lead single, “Anything,” from his forthcoming album, “R U STILL MAD AT ME,” the Pittsburgh, Pa. native is making his mark as a trailblazer with his infectious melodies and unique spin on contemporary R&B.
As he sings “Do you mind/ If I slide on you/ Spend time with you tonight/ Do you mind if I chill with you/ Make it real for you,” we’re drawn into the heartwarming embrace of his sultry tone.
“Anything” irresistibly sets the tone for the LP centered about intricate feelings, relationships, and ultimately, self-discovery.
“R U STILL MAD AT ME” arrives on Sunday, September 3.
Xenia Manasseh – “Love/Hate, PT. 1”
Xenia Manasseh’s debut album, “Love/Hate, Pt. 1,” is an emotional rollercoaster focused on love’s unpredictability. The 11-track LP is for delicate yet powerful women as the Kenyan-born, Los Angeles-based singer fuses her heritage with a sorrowful, intensely honest masterpiece.
After earning songwriting credits on Teyana Taylor’s The Album and singing background vocals for Taylor, Big Sean, and Burna Boy, fans love Xenia’s universal lyricism and earnest personal reflections.
“All the songs are special to me because they all came from me, they’re all my feelings on a page or in a song and the creation of all songs is sentimental to me,” she shared in a statement of the album. “But I will single out GI’s intro that is with my grandfather, Edgar Manasseh, GI is his nickname. That was done this year and was extremely sentimental and emotional because he has influenced so much of my musical journey. I can think of days when I was growing up he would teach me how to play things on the piano and his music collection is incredible.”
The endearing Swahili song was paired with a Luka Tututu composition. The LP wraps up just as strong as it began with the emotive yet hopeful “Love/Hate.”
She explained, “‘Love/Hate’ is also one of the tracks I felt that was the song that encompassed all the feelings that are spoken about in the album–the good, the bad, and in-between. I try to remember that balance as a lifeline. I’m also a Libra which is the sign of the scale, so I try to see the world through that lens and I felt like it’s not just representative of the album but also of me. I feel like everything in the album falls under those two words. It’s like a pendulum swing–you’re in and you’re out.”
Most of all, she hopes listeners take away the understanding of love’s karmic journey while also learning that it’s just the beginning. “This is just part 1 of the album; there’s a part 2 and in all of it, just know that love always comes around and it’s how you approach it the second time that matters.”
Keke Wyatt – “Water Into Wine”
The first offering from Keke Wyatt’s new album–her first in six years–has arrived. “Water Into Wine” showcases the mother of 11’s soulful roots as she gets honest with her lover about some expectations and realities.
“I really feel good about signing with Shanachie!” the singer said of her new team in a statement. “I’m excited and finally ready. I feel like this time we will create magic together and make HISTORY!”
Shanachie General Manager, Randall Grass, chimed in, “At a time when great singers are in short supply, Keke Wyatt continually displays what real singing is all about. Her range, power and intensely felt vocals connect with her audiences on the deepest level. We loved working with her before and are very excited to work with her now to make an epic new album.”
The reality TV star assures fans that her new LP will spotlight “good ole sanging” and will be an honest look into her life as she gears up to bare it all.
Lendryx – “Forces”
Lendryx is channeling two R&B legends with his new single, “Forces.”
Produced by Dionso, OSEI, and Jproof, the slow jam oozes romantic gratification as the crooner also inquires about the tug ‘o war battle of not wanting to fall in love, but also realizing that may be out of his control.
“I don’t wanna be in love/ But you’re so tempting/ When you leave the room, it feels so empty/ I’m trying be tough/ I’m fighting forces,” he sings.
Lendryx feels the ballad is his most “dynamic vocal performance yet” and admits that he challenged himself by using Tyrese’s “Signs Of Love Makin'” and Brandy’s range as the foundational elements of his vocal execution. It follows his previous single from April, “Just My Turn.”
Shae Universe – “Passenger Princess”
Shae Universe is riding the wave of her recent single, “Passenger Princess,” with the premiere of its visual. The song’s video, starring Kojey Radical, hints at the enthralling story being told as the title card reads, “Ever wish you could go back in time?”
Viewers see Shae seated in the backseat during a late-night drive as she reflects on some lingering feelings and bittersweet memories. The song, itself, was birthed by those emotions.
“He’d sent me roses all the way from LA and I still wasn’t over everything we’d been through when I received them, so I put all my mixed emotions into this song,” the UK-bred songbird stated of the record.
“I think ‘Passenger Princess’ is a very special song because not only is the title current and relatable, but the song’s deeper message of not always knowing exactly how to navigate situations is part of being a human with feelings. A part that sometimes frustrates us but hopefully, through this song, people feel seen and confident enough to accept this grey area of life.”
by Derrick T Lewis | Aug 11, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Stormzy, the acclaimed Croydon-born artist, continues to make waves in the music scene as he commemorates his milestone 30th birthday with an extravagant celebration that turned London’s Biltmore Mayfair into a glamorous casino. The festivities, which took place on July 28, were nothing short of star-studded, with many of Stormzy’s peers joining in on the grand soirée.
Now, on August 2, fans are treated to an exclusive look at the festivities in Stormzy’s latest visual release, “Angel In The Marble.” The track, produced by PRGRSHN, showcases Stormzy’s confident and boastful lyrical prowess, capturing the essence of the celebratory mood.
The visual for “Angel In The Marble” offers an insider’s view of Stormzy’s opulent birthday gala. The Biltmore Mayfair is transformed into a captivating casino, where guests and celebrities alike come together to honor the artist’s journey and accomplishments.
Throughout the video, Stormzy exudes charisma and confidence as he mingles with fellow artists and revels in the joyous atmosphere. The celebratory spirit is infectious as guests immerse themselves in the festivities, making it a night to remember.
Leading up to his birthday celebration, Stormzy has been treating his fans to an array of musical delights. As the summer kicked off, he dropped tracks like “Toxic Trait” alongside Fredo, “Longevity Flow,” and “The Weekend” featuring RAYE. In addition to his own releases, Stormzy has also lent his talent to collaborations such as Stonebwoy’s “Life & Money” and Mahalia’s “November,” solidifying his presence in the 2023 music landscape.
“Angel In The Marble” not only captures the essence of Stormzy’s music but also showcases his larger-than-life persona and the connections he’s made within the industry. The visual is a celebration of both his personal achievements and his enduring impact on the music world.
As Stormzy’s artistic journey continues to evolve, fans can anticipate more dynamic music and engaging visuals that showcase his growth as an artist and his ability to create unforgettable moments. With “Angel In The Marble,” Stormzy invites fans to relish in his birthday celebration and immerse themselves in the extravagant world of one of the UK’s most influential artists.
by Laghe Andrews | Aug 1, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Lil Tjay, the Bronx rap sensation, bares his soul in his latest visual release, “Bla Bla,” featuring Fivio Foreign. On July 27, the rising star unveiled the highly anticipated collaboration, produced by A Lau, Bordeaux, Non Native, and Itamar Gov-Ari, and the track is a powerful reflection on his life and the challenges he has faced.
In the emotionally charged music video, directed by TVK Visuals and JL Shot That, Lil Tjay and Fivio Foreign venture into the heart of London, capturing the vibrant energy of the city during their excursion. The video features footage from this year’s Wireless Festival, where the duo’s electrifying performance captivated a massive crowd of adoring fans in front of the iconic London Eye.
“Bla Bla” serves as a candid expression of Lil Tjay’s emotions following a harrowing incident in 2022 when he faced a life-threatening shooting. The track finds the Bronx rapper questioning those who failed to support him during that challenging time. Through heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery, Lil Tjay opens up about the impact of that traumatic event on his life and the people around him.
Speaking about the significance of the number “2” in his album titles, Lil Tjay shares a powerful moment of symbolism tied to the shooting incident. Recounting how he was airlifted into the sky like a helicopter during the ordeal, he vividly recalls the moment when the time read 2:22, which he interprets as an angelic sign guiding his path.
As Lil Tjay’s career continues to soar, “Bla Bla” marks another milestone in his musical journey. From his debut album “True 2 Myself” to the critically acclaimed “Destined 2 Win,” Lil Tjay’s artistry has resonated with millions of fans worldwide. Now, with “Bla Bla,” he further solidifies his place as an artist who fearlessly embraces vulnerability and channels life’s experiences into soul-stirring music.
In an industry often defined by bravado, Lil Tjay’s willingness to share his emotional journey and personal struggles sets him apart as an authentic voice in modern hip hop. With his genuine storytelling and captivating performances, Lil Tjay continues to leave an indelible mark on the genre and the hearts of his devoted fans.
“Bla Bla” is not just a song—it’s a powerful testament to resilience, growth, and the unwavering spirit of Lil Tjay as he navigates the highs and lows of life in the spotlight.
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