2023

Skillibeng Taps Nardo Wick For “16CHOPPA” Single

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Jamaican dancehall artist Skillibeng just recruited Nardo Wick for their single, “16CHOPPA.” If you’re unfamiliar with the 25-year-old, he’s one of the hottest names in dancehall right now, known for his creative fusions with hip-hop tropes. Moreover, this new track mixes tropical rhythms with trap-style drums and other production elements. What’s more is that the “Who Want Smoke?” MC matches Skillibeng’s energy and vocal tone with his guest verse. Overall, “16CHOPPA” is a fitting introduction to dancehall for hip-hop fans that are looking for somewhere to dive in. Still, the Jamaican artist is idiosyncratic and creative enough in his performance to give the track an authentic feel. While it might not be your cup of tea at first, this song’s melodies and hypnotic drum patterns will seep in your mind for some time.

LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 30: Skillibeng winner of the ‘Best Caribbean Music Act’ award at the MOBO Awards 2022 at OVO Arena Wembley on November 30, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

Furthermore, a lot of that stickiness comes from Skillibeng’s unique vocal inflections on “16CHOPPA.” For example, throughout his verses and choruses, he keeps a consistently nasal tone, going from fast words to drawn-out syllables. For outsiders to this genre or culture, the “accent” might throw some people off, and the high pitch doesn’t help. However, if it does, it’s an indication of their still-burgeoning taste, not of Skillibeng’s lack of talent. In fact, his delivery on the track is charismatic and much more of a unique approach to the flexing, boastful, playboy-style bars we’re used to.

However, on that note, Nardo comes through with some pretty cheeky wordplay and entertaining descriptions in his verse. Moreover, his style and understated delivery fit well with “16CHOPPA”‘s production. The light and simple keys, subtly morphing bass, and incredibly sharp drum kit is a checklist the Wickman’s crossed off often. Let us know what you think of Nardo’s performance on Skillibeng’s “16CHOPPA,” and what you thought about the whole track. Also, if you haven’t heard the track yet, you can find it on your preferred streaming service. Don’t forget to check out some standout bars, and come back to HNHH for the best new music each week.

Quotable Lyrics
Fifty more for the robbers, two for the drivers
How many shots did you hear? Never said a whole lotta
Big dog like Clifford, your bitch I dig her
The gun shoot fast ’cause it came with a swisha

Twyce Demands “Attention” In New Freestyle Track

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U.K artist Twyce just dropped a new freestyle titled “Attention,” and it demands it with narrative bars and a breezy instrumental. Moreover, the South London rapper is one of many voices bubbling in the English hip-hop scene, which covers grime, drill, and beyond. However, this newest track is well within a stateside hip-hop head’s wheelhouse. For example, the track’s production is similar to the melodic, emotionally resonant, and wavy tracks of a lyricist like J. Cole. While it’s a short track, Twyce injects a lot of passion and personal perspective in its two-minute runtime. It’s yet another creative track from beyond the pond, in an age where regions no longer define genre or style.

Furthermore, the beat on “Attention” is an emotive and laid-back approach, with a slow tempo and a lot of atmosphere. For example, there are some very subtle keys that hang in the background, so lush they sound like guitar strums. However, the guitar’s already the main melody, looping some soft electric chords throughout its runtime. Also, there are some beautiful saxophone lines that come in toward the midway point, contrasting nicely with the guitar. While it may not be the most dynamic or evolving backdrop, it’s still layered enough to warrant repeat listens. Regardless, Twyce’s bouncing flows, heartfelt narratives, and engaging wordplay and diction are the song’s standout achievement. In fact, some fans might be reminded of Dave’s introspection and his chilled and measured demeanor.

Still, what did you think of Twyce’s latest freestyle, “Attention”? However you may feel, let us know in the comments and peep notable lines and its music video down below. Also, if you haven’t heard this track yet, you can find the song on your preferred streaming service. As always, stay tuned to HNHH for the best new music releases, with or without that smooth British accent.

Quotable Lyrics
She was a girl on the corner, juxtaposed while I’m on the corner, just a pose,
Opinions opposed, you’re in my head naked, no clothes, first time
Seeing me, you froze, we’re great together, but trust me I’m good on my own,
They give Qs, I say no when they ask me “Do you regret this fully?”

Rarelyalways Says It’s “URGENT” On New Song

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The U.K.’s own Rarelyalways just dropped his second single of the year, and it’s “URGENT” that you give it a chance. Moreover, the South London artist will drop his debut album Work later in the year on March 10. Also, this isn’t the first teaser we’ve received for the project. Just a couple of weeks ago, he released two new tracks: “LET’S” and “Voice note 0142.” With these grimy and energetic tracks, Rarelyalways is setting up a varied and widely-influenced body of work. After all, his background in music education and lifetime of loving music of all kinds should make for an incredible combo. Furthermore, “URGENT” is a woozy, deeply psychedelic, and atmospheric cut that pulls from varied sonic territory.

While the track’s percussion and emphatic flows fit into a hip-hop formula, the rest of the instrumentation reveals Rarely’s creativity. For one, there are some old-school DJ scratches throughout this track that give it a retro feel at certain points. Also, there’s a hypnotic and effect-heavy synth line that persists menacingly in the background, fading in and out. Still, the additional uses of strings swells and deep bass provide a solid foundation for the rapper’s hardened life stories. However, one of the track’s best features is its hazy and abstract song structure. All of its elements fight for the listener’s attention and bob in and out of the track, changing its focus. Once those trumpet lines come in, they pull you out of the murky beat, and drop you right back in once they end.

Still, what did you think of Rarelyalways latest track, “URGENT”? Moreover, are you looking forward to his March 10 debut album, Work? Let us know in the comments and check out some standout bars and the single’s music video down below. Also, if you haven’t heard it yet, you can find the eerie song on your preferred streaming service. As always, log back into HNHH for the best new music in hip-hop and beyond released each week.

Quotable Lyrics
You can hold a box of tissue, they want me on the curb doin’ big issue,
No parachute, but I stay wishful, had to play radical, swindle,
Sustainted injuries, additional, globalized, I was sacrificial,
I stood ground, no need for a pistol, wrist taking’s part of the ritual

Gangsta Boo’s Last Music Video Released

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Gangsta Boo’s last music video dropped recently for Drumma Boy’s track “Imma Mack.” Also, the track features the late Boo’s fellow Three 6 Mafia member Crunchy Black and La Chat in the K. Cutta-directed video. While the Southern pioneer’s death shocked the hip-hop world, her hustle was tragically in full swing. Furthermore, she also featured on GloRilla and Latto’s track “FTCU,” which released to much acclaim from fans. Moreover, TMZ Hip Hop obtained exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of the video shoot. According to their report, Gangsta Boo was excited about the project and went back to her home of Memphis during Christmas to shoot her contributions.

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – MAY 05: Gangsta Boo attends the Grand Opening for My Fish Stop Mississippi Soul Fish North Hollywood at My Fish Stop on May 05, 2022 in North Hollywood, California. (Photo by Maury Phillips/Getty Images)

Overall, you can feel Gangsta Boo’s character, presence, and energy come through in the music video. For example, TMZ footage captured her during the editing process, giving her passionate input with a bottle of Patrón Tequila in hand. Later in the final video, she energetically delivers her verses and enjoys cooking up in the kitchen. “Imma Mack” comes from Drumma Boy’s Welcome to My City Vol. 4. Moreover, the project featured several Memphis rappers spitting together over instrumentals, and served as a regional highlight. In fact, Boo felt very compelled and inspired by the project, given her longstanding and enduring love for her city.

Meanwhile, TMZ spoke to Drumma Boy about the compilation and his excitement surrounding the 20-track album and related endeavors. Overall, the producer had nothing but love for Boo’s participation in the project and her passion. Moreover, he spoke positively on the compilation’s achievement of bringing all these artists together.

Still, the greatness of Gangsta Boo’s music and video presence matched with grief and pain over her tragic passing. Regardless, fans and loved ones reciprocated that same love she has for Memphis at her funeral proceedings last month. Hundreds of mourners paid their respects, with everyone from industry titans to community members in attendance. The Three 6 Mafia icon passed at the age of 43, and authorities haven’t revealed an official cause of death yet. However, many suspect that a drug overdose took her life, although those claims remain in the rumor mill. As always, come back to HNHH for the latest on Gangsta Boo’s legacy and her influence on the hip-hop world.

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Latto, Doechii & More Receive 2023 Billboard Women In Music Awards

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Latto, Doechii, and more received this year’s 2023 Billboard Women in Music Awards, hosted by actress and writer Quinta Brunson. Other nominees include Becky G, TWICE, Lana Del Rey, Kim Petras, Lainey Wilson, and Ivy Queen. Overall, Billboard wants to celebrate “influential female powerhouses” during its ceremony in a variety of categories.

PARK CITY, UTAH – JANUARY 22: Doechii visits The IMDb Portrait Studio at Acura Festival Village on Location at Sundance 2023 on January 22, 2023 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Corey Nickols/Getty Images for IMDb)

The event itself will take place at the YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Los Angeles on March 1st. While Billboard sent these awards out, they’ll reveal performers at the ceremony and the Women of the Year recipient later on. Still, Billboard Editorial Director Hannah Karp shared what these performances and accolades represent for so many.

“We’re thrilled to recognize these groundbreaking artists across genres and generations who are defining today’s sound – and paving the way for tomorrow’s women in music,” the statement read. “With the inspiring Quinta Brunson as our host, this year’s Billboard Women in Music Awards is going to be an incredible night.”

Furthermore, the organization will honor these female leaders in the industry with unique awards and acknowledgments. For example, Latto will receive the Powerhouse Award, and they honored Doechii with the Rising Star Award. Moreover, the Visionary Award is for Lana Del Rey, whereas TWICE received the Breakthrough Award. Also, they awarded Kim Petras as a Chartbreaker, Becky G for her Impact, and Ivy Queen for being an Icon.

Meanwhile, Latto recently tore through her freestyle over SZA’s “Smoking on my Ex Pack.” While she already had a wonderful 2022 with the release of 777, she started 2023 off hot as well. “Sundress with no panties on but I wear the pants / I been showing my ass without a Onlyfans. You know, the rumors come with privacy / Hmm, more money, more anxiety,” she raps on the song. Along with other singles like “FTCU,” maybe she’s back in album mode.

Still, what do you think of Latto, Doechii, and others receiving the 2023 Billboard Women in Music Awards? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, come back to HNHH for the latest accomplishments and amazing female artists in hip-hop and beyond.

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BigXthaPlug Gives A “Primetime” Show On New Song

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Rising Dallas, Texas MC BigXthaPlug just dropped “Primetime,” a grand and heavy-hitting cut of Southern hip-hop. While Big X isn’t topping charts, he’s making noise online and garnering millions of views from his pure talent. Moreover, this new track mixes a lot of sounds together for a uniquely hype and triumphant vibe.

AUSTIN, TEXAS – MARCH 17: BigXthaPlug performs onstage at ‘Earn Your Leisure & UnitedMasters Present #earnyourmasters Music Showcase’ during the 2022 SXSW Conference and Festivals on March 17, 2022 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Samantha Burkardt/Getty Images for SXSW)

However, you may be surprised at the Plug’s background. He’s nicknamed “The Biggest Stepper” (but who’s Mr. Morale?) and was a star football player from his childhood to his freshman year of college. Then, he faced some trouble during that time that caused him to shift gears. Afterwards, his mixtape Back from the Dead and singles like “Big Stepper,” Mr. Trouble,” “Safehouse,” and “Texas” bolstered his musical profile. His most recent efforts nabbed him cosigns from Bun B, Erykah Badu, and Shaq.

Also, the MC named “Primetime” after Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback Deion Sanders. Much like that status, this track feels victorious and epic while still being enjoyable and hard-hitting trap. What’s more is that the instrumental prowess on this track really makes it stand out above all. Moreover, the saxophone that opens the track is gorgeous and classy, clashing creatively with the drum pattern that follows.

Meanwhile, grand hits of strings and subtle swells elevate the track to a more dramatic level every now and then. Most interestingly, however, that contrast between classy and punchy even adds rock into the mix. During some parts of the verses and chorus, you can hear an electric guitar wail away atmospherically in the background. Also, some muffled acoustic kicks give the track tense percussion in its build-ups.

Still, what did you think of BigXthaPlug’s latest single, “Primetime”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and peep some notable lyrics from the track down below. Also, if you haven’t heard the song yet, you can find it on your preferred streaming service. As always, check back in with HNHH for the latest great music releases of the week.

Quotable Lyrics

Take some lessons, I’ll teach you lil’ boys how to trap,
I just started this s**t and my face on the map,
We’ve been runnin’ through packs, steady runnin’ up laps,
If you got B.O.A., come and get your s**t tapped

Kelvyn Colt Goes “EYE4EYE” On New Single

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Kelvyn Colt is back with his latest single, the minimal and club-influenced “EYE4EYE.” While that club influence might lead you to expect trendier sounds, Colt proves anything but. Moreover, this new track is tense, slightly industrial, and nothing if not thrilling from start to finish.

MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 15: Kelvyn Colt attends Prada Fall/Winter 2023/2024 Menswear Fashion Show on January 15, 2023 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Prada)

What’s more is that the German-Nigerian artist is gearing to drop his new project GERMAN ANGST.

“EYE4EYE” is the first single off my new project GERMAN ANGST,” he stated. Furthermore, he called it a “reflection on the culture of revenge and male toxicity, as well as the question of forgiveness. I explore my own experiences of being cheated by another artist, whom I had paid for a feature, and how I chose not to seek revenge but instead to maintain a clear conscience. In the song I’m trying to express the doubts and questions I have in mind about this topic and the hypocritical stance we as individuals take on it.”

Meanwhile, the instrumental here is an eerie and slowly building piece of industrial and electronic hip-hop. For example, the heavy kick drums only show up when the song is reaching a peak, culminating in an explosive outro. While Colt’s flows certainly keep the tempo steady, there’s a captivating soaring synth line that saws through and energizes the track. In fact, some listeners might even catch a bit of Jersey club influence in the ending’s drum pattern.

Still, what did you think of Kelvyn Colt’s latest song, “EYE4EYE”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out some standout bars and the amazing music video for the single down below. Also, if you haven’t heard it yet, you can find the track on your preferred streaming service. As always, log back into HNHH for the next rap stars, big hits, and the best new music each week.

Quotable Lyrics

Intercept before the show, get back yo’ dough with maybe more,
I said ‘No’, he said ‘Yeah’, I said ‘Hold on’, he said ‘My bro,
This s**t gonna get you clout and money, what you want more?’
And I replied, ‘Peace when I’m overseas on tour’

SAIAH Drops Emotive New Single, “ihateyouandyouhatemetoo”

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Phoenix-based artist SAIAH just dropped their first single of 2023, the moody but cathartic “ihateyouandyouhatemetoo.” Moreover, the track is an alt-rock and indie-tinged exploration of a recent relationship coming to an end. While its lyrics and subject matter sound defeated, the song’s sonic development points towards a brighter resolution.

Furthermore, the instrumental is a light, atmospheric, and soothing collection of acoustic guitar, cloudy synth patches, and soft pianos. Even if the track is bogged down in heartache, its emotive and nuanced lyrics reflect the track’s optimistic melancholy. Overall, it sounds like the kind of track that will energize you some days and make you stare longingly out a car window on others.

“‘ihateyouandyouhatemeto’ is about a love that is spiritual,” SAIAH expressed. “A love that isn’t waning. The truth behind the thin line between love and hate. Love will prevail.”

Moreover, they explore the moments after a breakup just reached its peak, and all different kinds of emotions are swirling through. For example, the booming chorus might give listeners a blast of raw anger, but their verses convey acceptance as well. Throughout its runtime, SAIAH successfully balances the nuance in moving on from someone else.

Also, new music isn’t all that SAIAH excited fans with this week. In addition, they announced a spring tour sharing dates with the band easy life. What’s more is that these live experiences tie deeply into their artistry. Furthermore, “ihateyouandyouhatemetoo” boasts production from Jack Kolbe, who’s also worked with Jelani Aryeh. However, SAIAH’s touring band member Estelle Allen also contributed guitar parts to this cut.

Still, what did you think of SAIAH’s latest track, “ihateyouandyouhatemetoo”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out the music video and some quotable lines from the song down below. Also, if you haven’t heard this new single, you can find it on your preferred streaming service. As always, come back to HNHH for the best new music releases every week.

Quotable Lyrics

There you were righteous, it’s been months you walked out,
Told me not to follow you down south, and fair
In December, the winter nights
Feel cold now and I feel so alone child

Cruch Calhoun Is “Tapped In” With Dave East & Dre Mac On New Song

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Cruch Calhoun and Dave East just returned with a new track “Tapped In” featuring Dre Mac. While all of these rappers hail from the West Coast, the instrumental on here throws it back to California classics. Moreover, this mix of energy makes for a track that is as smooth as it is biting.

LONG BEACH, CA – APRIL 29: Rapper Cruch Calhoun performs onstage during the Smokers Club Festival at The Queen Mary on April 29, 2018 in Long Beach, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)

Furthermore, the song’s instrumental samples Dr. Dre’s iconic “F**k Wit Dre Day (And Everybody’s Celebratin’).” However, the soaring G-funk synths contrast well with some additional sharp drums featured on this new single. Though East and Calhoun are frequent collaborators, they had some special things to say about this track in particular.

“Dave and I are ‘Tapped In’ again and staying in tune,” Cruch expressed.  “With ‘Tapped In’ I wanted to create a track where we could put our East Coast vibes on a West Coast classic.” Moreover, his next album Soul’d Out will drop on February 17th this year.

Meanwhile, the East Harlem MC spoke fondly of his working relationship with Calhoun. “I always love working with Cruch,” he stated. “‘Tapped In’ is the perfect blend of East Coast and West Coast music; and mixed with Kamillion’s production, perfectly blends the two sounds.”

However, the consistent nods to Harlem on this track are unsurprising. Dave East recently contributed to Godfather of Harlem‘s soundtrack with his song “DAMN.” Also, he even interpolated some classic Biggie lyrics to shout out the rest of New York.

Still, what did you think of Cruch Calhoun’s new track with Dave East, “Tapped In” featuring Dre Mac? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out some quotable lyrics from the single down below. Also, if you haven’t heard the song yet, you can find it on your preferred streaming service. As always, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest quality releases in hip-hop and beyond.

Quotable Lyrics

Countin’ n***as pockets, well, put something in the pot then,
Get to actin’ wocky, you catch somethin’ out this Glock then,
Actin’ like they out here, but they ain’t never squeeze nothin’,
Luce got that broom stick, please don’t make him sweep somethin’

Lil Yachty Talks About New Album & Being “Taken Serious As An Artist”

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Lil Yachty expressed some heartfelt thoughts on his new album Let’s Start Here at a listening party on Thursday night (January 27). While some scratched their heads at Yachty’s diversion into psych-rock, they also praised his creative execution along with many others online. Moreover, the 25-year-old said that his talent, passion, and vision extend beyond what people expected.

ATLANTA, GA – OCTOBER 19: Lil Yachty performs onstage during Wicked Featuring 21 Savage at Forbes Arena at Morehouse College on October 19, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)

“This album is so special and dear to me,” he remarked presumably before the album played. “I think I created it just because I really wanted to be taken serious as an artist, you know. Not just some SoundCloud rapper, not some mumble rapper. Not some guy that just made one hit. You know, I wanted to be really taken serious because music is, like, everything to me. You know, I respect all walks of music, not just rap and hip-hop, everything.

“So I think I wanted to make something to show the world just how great it was to me,” Yachty continued. “If we just gonna be honest, I mean, I had n***as that were copying the swag. I just felt like ‘Okay, cool, everyone can do this, that’s fine, but I’m gonna show y’all what y’all can’t do.’ You feel me? That’s what’s on this other side. I hope y’all are good, I hope everybody got the shrooms in your body. You feel me? Like I said, just no flashes, and… see you n***as on the other side.”

While Let’s Start Here definitely displays Yachty’s talents and passions vividly, its atmosphere also points to that cheeky shrooms comment. In fact, it became a part of his social media rollout, along with his trippy visual style in music videos. In addition to a teaser skit, the Atlanta artist also released a music video for his album cut, “sAy sOMETHINg.”

Still, what do you think of Lil Yachty’s thoughts on Let’s Start Here at his listening event, and what about the new album itself? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, come back to HNHH for more insights from the best creatives in the hip-hop game.