NY rappers have always had their own unique and intricate style to contribute to the rap game. From the early days of breakers and sampled beats, to the part days of the late 90's to 2000s, NYC rappers have always had a distinct flow. Today, fans of Hip-hop are hearing a lot of progression back into the style of the old with the rise of underground acts like Casey Veggies, A$AP Rocky, Joey Bada$$, etc. While these artist are appealing to the skaterboy/backpack generation of underground culture, most still maintain that raw and gritty appeal that many street affiliates can connect with. One of these artists who is making a name for himself in the game, is the young Bronx emcee Chris Cartier.
Fans of A$AP can get with 19 year-old Cartier's mix of street and drug-induced beats and hardcore flow. After releasing his mixtape Sucks to Be Me through DatPiff, Cartier has been steady keeping up his buzz in the game by opening for acts such as A$ap Mob, Flatbush Zombies, Vinny Cha$e, Wu-Block, Ghostface Killah, The Underachievers and performing alongside Denzil Porter, Rhyson Jones, Perrion, Skotch Davis, Julian Stephan and many more. His latest track "12am" shows sign of influences from his rap peers but still leaves room for lyrical growth and individuality.
"Take Six"
After Drake dropped his latest single "5 am in Toronto" this past month, it was only a matter of time before rappers jumped on the sick Boi-1da and Vinylz beat. Stepping up to the plate is the newcomer NYC emcee Chris Cartier. The young rapper comes hard with an aggressive over the gritty beat. Staying true to his style, the independent rapper spits a throwback, gritty flow about making in the industry and how success changes the people around you. Bringing a dark but street vibe to the track, he delivers on this freestyle. Be sure to check out the free cut below.
Vintage Records newcomer Jowin makes his musical debut and drops a dance track to appeal to the "Wallflower" in all of us. Mixing some electronica, synth, funk, and old school hip-hop influences, the 22 yr-old Macon, GA native brings a new era of music for the socially awkward and rebellious. Accepting the differences in others and using music to express his unique individuality, this track brings an escape from the status quo of the hard edge of rap with its colorful lyrics and abstract sound. This is the first single off the Nigerian-American singer/songwriter's third solo effort Project:ReBloom, available on iTunes now. Although not the most lyrical dope, one listen of the catchy tune gives you a nostalgic vibe of early Q-Tip and Pharcyde. Be sure to check out the eclectic track below.
Boston native Timmy D. hits the studio this week with nothing more than the acousitc guitar and his voice to drop a cover for the Kid Ink "Time of Your Life". The Lu Balz produced track is very raw and a softer version to the DJ Ill Will hit. Both songs seemed geared toward the radio and the Timmy D version takes on a more pop approach. On the fence on whether im feeling it or not. Both tracks did come across as that generic hit to get radio play. One thing i can say is that the flow stays consistent throughout. Timmy D. delivers as best he can and makes the track his own.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEj1cl41dZE
Fans of the track can check out his other youtube covers via his youtube page and Twitter @ItsTimmyD
Rotimi
Singer/songwriter Rotimi has been consistently doing his thing as Darius Morrison on the Starz hit series "Boss" and now is steady keeping up his buzz in music. Just days ago, he released a free copy of his new single "Only Human". This smooth, independently self written and The Bartendaz produced track is the first listen off his upcoming EP. Conveying the struggles of remaining faithful, his gentle voice makes this soulful song a R&B vibe.
Jack Freeman
Sometimes all you need is a soft beat, guitar rips, and soothing voice to make a infectious new track. On the Texas native artist's new single "Freedom", Jack Freeman takes an effortless approach for a great single. The Chris Rockaway produced and James Kelly mastered tune has the heartbroken Freeman pours emotion out while singing about searching all around for that one girl who reminds him of the one he took for granted in the past. These vulnerable lyrics about coping with being alone are accentuated and brought to life by the wide range of Freeman's soulful voice. Be sure to check it out below and buy your copy on iTunes now.
Listen to the new single here
They say that with age comes experience and with Justin Timberlake's new album 20/20 Experience, he shows that he is wise beyond his years. After over a 6 year hiatus, the 32 year old singer flexes his over 20 years in the music industry over a wide array of genre hopping, mature tunes. Allowing some time to pass, Timberlake teams up with hit-maker producer/writer Timbaland and Harmon to recapture the same magic that made his previous two multi-platinum efforts so successful.
After falsely announcing that Timberlake was not going to return to the music industry and focus on his booming acting career, he surprised fans by dropping the infectious "Suit & Tie". The lead single is a progressive, yet retro track that mixes genres and eras. Opening with a chopped-and-screwed vibe, Timberlake quickly switches to a Marvin Gaye-esque falsetto as he smoothly croons over a mix of percussion and studio synths. With the addition of a sophisticated, grown and sex hip-hop verse from Jay-Z, this tune set up the tone for the majority of the album and the new sound of the "Future sex/Love Songs" singer.
Continuing with this exploration in sound and effects, the duo of Timberlake and Timbaland continue to offer a new music experience by adding a mix of romance and dance tunes. With soft ballads like "Pusher Love Girl", "Mirrors", soulful "That Girl", and hip-hop influenced "Tunnel Vision", it is clear that Justin is going through the early post-wedding bliss. Although heavy on the romantic tunes, Justin still retains the same boyish charm and love for nightlife as he sings over the Bollywood-esque "Don't Hold the Wall" and African tribal rhythms of "Let the Groove Get In".
After two widely successful and critically acclaimed albums, Timberlake sets out to show that he has nothing to prove with 20/20 Experience. Fans of his previous works shouldn't be surprised that his sound has changed. Over the course of 6 and a half years, his life experiences have changed. He has grown, artistically, and the maturity in sound reflects that. Although he is older, there are still remnants of the same artist that brought "SexyBack" or made you "Rock Your Body" but in a new pop/R&B pastiche. With a 7 to 8 minute length for a majority of the 10 track album, 20/20 Experience offers a hypnotic musical experience that allows listeners to get entranced by the melodic harmonies of Timberlake's voice over the progressive Timbaland and Harmon production. A couple of the tracks could have used a little more editing as the length does hinder on excessive. Devoted fans will enjoy the step into a more complex sound, but listeners looking for a light-pop, radio-friendly listen will have to rely on his previous LPs. The entire album is now available for streaming via iTunes and available for purchase March 19th.
With 6 Grammy's, 11 number one Hot 100 singles, most liked on Facebook, over 60 million tracks sold, and over 25 million albums sold worldwide, it is safe to say that Rihanna is one of the world's most influential and top female pop artists in the game. Gracing the covers of multiple top magazines with jaw-dropping beautiful and controversial photos, the Bajan beauty could literally drop an auto-tuned burp and still sell millions to adoring fans. Fortunately for music lovers, her latest album Unapologetic is an exploration into new genres, sounds, and one of her more personal albums of her career.
Although she didnt pen or produce any of the tracks on this latest release, Rihanna enlists the works of top producers, songwriters, and dance kings to tell her story of love, relationships, money, sex, and weed. Once you get the past the ego-boosting dubstep, sythned beat of the Guetta produced "Phresh off the Runway", money glorifying Mike Will-Made It produced "Pour it Up", atmospheric banger "Numb" ft Eminem, and Skrillex-esque Ginuwine sampled "Jump", the album takes a more personal and ballad heavy tone.
Following the dance heavy tracks are the more personal tracks that set this album apart from others in the past. Contradictory to her uplifting, chart-topping single "Diamonds", two of the ballads that painted Rihanna in a dark and troubled light were the ironic Michael Jackson inspired "Nobody's Business" ft Chris Brown and the depressing "Love Without Tragedy/Mother Mary". Both singles touch on the feelings and emotions of the controversy that shaped both Rihanna and Chris Brown's careers since the 2009 incident, but whose message and simple lyrics give a mixed message of being stuck in limbo and weary of the next step. Even though her intention for letting the listener into this personal journey of her life is still unclear as a just a means to sell albums or therapy, the album as a whole is a roller coaster of mixed emotions, sounds, and simple lyrics coupled with strong beats.
Album Snippets: http://soundcloud.com/umusic-backstage/sets/rihanna-unapologetic
I have been a fan of The Black Keys for awhile now. With their cool but relatable demeanor, infectious garage-punk sound, and their many collaborations with top rapper/producer Danger Mouse, the duo have been on steady replay on playlist. So, when I came across this Tobacco remix to their track “I Got Mine,” I just had to take a listen. Although this remix has remained unreleased for over four years, the Black Moth Super Rainbow member leaked it on the web today for fans to rejoice in the added mix of a bass line and almost psychedelic vibe. Not only does this remix do the group justice but accomplishes the difficult task of actually being better than the original.
YMCMB emcee Busta Rhymes (still getting used to calling him that) is back with a new track titled “Doin It Again”. Collaborating with Reek Da Villain and Chanel on the addictive hook, this TedSmoothproduced track is reminiscent of early 2000 smoother Busta Rhymes as an update to Hi-Tek’s “Round and Round” beat. With lyrics about bottle popping, partyin’, and suave lyricism, this radio friendly track is a step into the luxurious life that rapper’s love to brag about. Expect to hear more cuts from Busta Rhymes free LP Year of the Dragon.
It’s been a minute since we heard some new material from the West coast rapper Blu, but today he dropped a dope single titled “Comfy in the Trunk”. Mixing a chill beat with some sick lyrics, Blu delivers on this Dj Babu effort. Although this track isnt’t exactly brand spanking new, it is one of the standout cuts off the Closed Sessions Vol. 2 mixtape. Each song on the mixtape were recorded over a 2 year period and feature emcees Sir Michael Rocks, Action Bronson, Cyhi, Vic Mensa, and more. Download the tape here
DMV(DC/Maryland/Virginia) natives and Bad Boy and Taylor gang signees, Los and Lola Monroe become Hip-Hop’s new partners in crime on the newly leaked track “Bonnie & Clyde”, from their upcoming joint effort with the same name. This Calvo produced track has the real life couple balancing between danger and romance as they spit some sick verses over the street anthem beat. Gone are the days of R&B queens and Brooklyn’s best emcee taking over the radio waves ( Jay-Z and Beyonce’s “03 Bonnie&Clyde), now the Bad Boy Records rookie King Los and first lady of Taylor Gang Queen Lola Monroe trade in cute hooks for braggadocious rhymes and big-money tough talk coupled with clever 16′s and thug appeal. A release date for their upcoming effort is yet to be announced but stayed tuned because you know we got you covered.
Courtesy of MTV 2 Sucka Free and Ruby Hornet, the latest Closed Session mixtape has the G.O.O.D. music newcomer Cyhi The Prince blessing the web with his latest leak off the Closed Session Vol. 2 documentary/compilation album. The Nascent and QB prodcued track titled “Good For Me”, has an old school vibe with a sampled line on replay in the background of the soulful beat. Cyhi delivers a dope flow that matches well with the beat and lays down a rhythmic rap as the song goes. Although a chill song, it still bumps and a sick edition to the upcoming compilation documentary album featuring Curren$y, Action Bronson, Rockie Fresh, Raekwon, and many more, due out August 30th.
Massachusetts-bred emcees Statik Selektah and Termanology, also known rap group 1982, drop some new heat off their latest collaborative album titled 2012. Their new single, “Up Every Night,” is given a new sound and new bars with the addition of rising stars Kid Ink and Cory Gunz. The feel good, Statik Selektah-produced throwback mix of old school and Motown sounds is already dope, but the addition of the Bronx rapper Gunz and indie lyricist Kid Ink is a nice touch. This tune should definitely be on steady replay on your playlist and be sure to cop the group’s latest LP, available on iTunes now.
What would have been Michael Jackson‘s 54th birthday, in remembrance and celebration of the undisputed King of Pop, Brooklyn-based legendary producer J.Period remasters a new rendition of MJ’s hit “Wanna Be Where You Are”. J.Period does his best to stay true to the original 1972-hit single, but adds some new energy and freshness to the track. With the addition of string instrumentals and an unreleased alternate vocal lead performed by a 14-yr-old Jackson, this single is sure to make any MJ fan “remember the time” he graced the top of the charts.
This track is the latest release from the MJ tribute Man or the Musiccollection and available for stream and download via J.Period’s homepage.
To say that mega-producing group Major Lazer has had a hot summer, is an understatement. From remixes to Usher to No Doubt, dropping their critically acclaimed EP, dropping Switch as a partner and recruiting newcomers Walshy Fire and Jillionaire, and leaking dope track after dope track, Major Lazer continues stay busy with their new track “Carnival 2012 Mix”. Although there are some infusions of dubstep and electronic beats, this is mainly a Carribean party track. The crop-over friendly mashup of over 60 Dancehall and reggae tracks over a 71 minute session features the latest hits from major acts like Vybz Kartel, Movado, and many more. The group took to the web to release this mix as a preview for their upcoming hosting of the annual Notting Hill Carnival in London, which they are hosting. Be sure to stay posted for more upcoming leaks.
Smooth crooner Miguel has one of the most unique and progressive sounds in R&B. From the moment he worked with Blu and dropped his first hit single “All I Want Is You” ft. J.Cole, he has had an explosive career marked by infectious sound that continues to push the contemporary sound of R&B. With his latest tracks “Don’t Look Back” and “Use Me”, he continues experimenting with electro and synth studio effects, adding some heavy guitar chords and bass to further amplify the futuristic and dream-like beats. Miguel even has time to drop a sample from the musical Hair as the beat breaks down at the end of “Don’t Look Back.”
Both tracks are featured on his three-song EP Kaleidoscope Dream: Water Preview, which just dropped yesterday. The EP is the first of three installments leading up to his sophomore release (simply calledKaleidoscope Dream) on Oct. 2nd.
For those who are a fan of the music video for “Mercy” may or may not remember the random albino sand ninja in black staring down the camera during the first chorus (the 1:41 mark for those who want to go back and see). Well that figure was neither albino or a ninja but G.O.O.D. music‘s resident Brit, Mr. Hudson. Although the singer/producer took abrief hiatus after dropping his debut Straight No Chaser a few years back and has yet to cross over into international mainstream success, he decided to bless the interwebs with a remix to the London-bred band thenewno2′s “Make it Home”. After the groups performance on Conan a few weeks back, this remix is a huge departure from the sound of the original. With Hudson’s pension for mixing electro and indie, he manages to delve into this alternative-rock tune and flip it into a chilling, trance-inducing ballad.
The single is availabe for download here and the original can be heard on thenewno2′s sophomore album thefearofmissingout, available on iTunes now.
Although there is one reigning pop-star female emcee, many floacists have been making steady buzz on the underground. From Azealia Banks to Iggy Azealea, necomers have resorted to attention seeking gimmicks coupled with sick production and lyrical prowess to build success while others like Bronx born, Brooklyn resident Nina B. delivers dope rhymes to build a name for herself in the male dominated rap game. With the latest leak “718″, she recruits the styles of Warner Bros./Vice Records new signee Action Bronson and fellow BK expert wordsmith SkyZoo to bless the DJ Jazzy Joyceproduced track with some sick bars. The trio’s verses compliment the ’00 vibe of the beat and work well together, as if they were more in a group than just random lyricists on the track. I am definitely a fan of this song and expect to hear more when Nina B.’s album Titles are Played Out drops August 21st.
The return of alternative legends No Doubt has been ushered in by the mix stylings of mega-producerDiplo. Taking to the radio waves today with their newest single “Push and Shove” off their upcoming album of the same name, the band continues to explore a Ska, reggae, and rock infusion. Ironically they maintain the theme of the pushing and shoving motion by giving listeners a mix of two different songs; one high-energy, island beat and another more signature rock vibe. May take a couple listens to get into the rhythm, considering it is only a radio rip, but the track definitely grows on you.
No Doubt’s long-awaited sixth studio album, Push and Shove, is set to hit stores September 25th.
When No Doubt announced their return to the studio earlier this year, fans were more than excited. After an 11-year hiatus, the classic group dropped their new single but didn’t maintain the same hype by the mediocrity of the reggae influenced “Settle Down”. Fortunately, during their break, mega-producerDiplo became a star in the music industry along with his Switch-collabo project, Major Lazer. Taking the long-awaited track and adding the proper heavy drums, some sirens, synthesized sounds and upping the tempo while still keeping Gwen Stefani’s iconic voice intact, Major Lazer did what it does best and accomplished making the remix better than the original. This dancehall track is great and returns the group to their genre-crossing routes that made their 2001 Rock Steady a classic.
No Doubt’s new album Push and Shove arrives September 25th via Interscope Records. Major Lazer’s Free the Universe drops November 6th.
The Southern California trio Pac Div have been keeping fans happy with dope leaks and steady raising buzz on the underground. Their latest single “Bank” is another solid effort from their upcoming album. The heavy bass Scoop Deville produced single has the trio painting a picture of a lyrical heist of a bank. Considering rough economic times, this track is in perfect timing and is another twist on the iconic Robin Hood tale of stealing back the money from the wealthy to help feed the poor when frustration and empty pockets cause desperation. However dont get too money hungry, because Im sure Pac Div isn’t condoning their listeners going out and robbing the banks. Be sure to cop their upcoming album GMB, an acronym of the members’ names (Gabe, Mike, Brian), due out Oct. 16th.
Taking a step away from judging and performing on the ABC talent show Duets, singer Robin Thickecapitalizes on the publicity by dropping a newly leaked single titled “Another Life”. This soulfulNeptunes‘ and The Cataracs’ produced track is a soothing tune and Thicke does his label Star Trak Entertainment justice by penning some smooth lyrics. With the right mix of soul and charisma, Thicke gives the track his signature dynamic flow while still making it an easy listen for “the grown and sexy” audience. Coupled with a great instrumentals that mix piano keys, slight percussion, and some handclaps, it is clear how Thicke can bag such beauties as his wife, Paula Patton.
After remaining relatively mute in the past couple months, Ryan Leslie resurfaced and dropped some new material titled “Live Good (Rivieria Flow)”. Leslie takes the signature smooth, laid back chill vibe with this record and teams up with Wu Tang vet Raekwon to deliver a poetic rap/singing dedicated to the good life. This track has a particular lounge, relaxing on your yacht type feel to it and, although I was skeptical at first about R.Les the rapper, the multi-talented producer/singer/emcee/songwriter seems to find his niche with this smooth track.
Be sure to check out his junior effort Les Is More, dropping October 23, via his independent label Next Selection.
There hasn’t been many mystery bands in the past decades. Unlike the Gorillaz, this new Toronto duoSandie Black is animation free and shrouded in mystery but offers a dope sound. With their debut leaked single “Gotta Get Free” , the duo creates a unique track that crosses several genres. Mixing styles of soul, rock, and hip-hop to create a futuristic funk, Black’s quirkiness and vibe is similar to the edginess of a Janelle Monae or Idlewarship with the lyrical stylings of a Lenny Kravitz. Although the identity of the group is still a secret, I am anxious to hear more from them in the future.
