2023

Yung Gravy Sued By Rick Astley Over “Never Gonna Give You Up”

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Rick Astley is suing Yung Gravy for sampling his voice on “Never Gonna Give You Up” on “Betty (Get Money).” While the song brought Astley’s hit to a new generation, it seems they didn’t work out the rights issues. Of course, it’s not like Astley’s original hit was unheard of, as people still troll each other online with it.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 18: Yung Gravy performs onstage as Pizza Hut and Airrack break the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for World’s Largest Pizza to launch the Big New Yorker on January 18, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Pizza Hut)

According to a TMZ report, the English artist filed suit on Thursday (January 26). Moreover, he claimed that Gravy wrongfully featured and an impersonation of his performance on 1987’s “Never Gonna Give You Up.” Also, the lawsuit involves Yung Gravy, his producers (including Dillon Francis), and the impersonator Nick Seely, also known as Popnick.

Furthermore, Astley stated that these collaborators “conspired to include a deliberate and nearly indistinguishable imitation of Mr. Astley’s voice throughout the song.” In addition, he said that he never gave any of them permission to impersonate his voice. However, this lawsuit carried more curious repercussions. Astley also said that Gravy ruined any chance of him collaborating with other artists in the future. Sad to say it, but looks like Rick Astley isn’t hopping on a remix anytime soon.

However, the “C’est La Vie” artist did license the instrumental to “Never Gonna Give You Up,” just not the vocal performance. While this saved him from larger problems, it seems he knew of what he was getting into. Moreover, the lawsuit references several occasions where Gravy acknowledged the complicated legal situation he was getting into with the song. For example, in an interview with Billboard, he said he “basically remade” Rick’s voice, “because it makes it easier legally.”

If you live under a rock (or off the Internet), “Never Gonna Give You Up” is Rick Astley’s biggest hit. It also reached No. 1 on the charts, and is most well-known today as an Internet joke that you can read more about here. Meanwhile, “Betty (Get Money)” marked Yung Gravy’s most successful song so far. Overall, it’s a clash of the titans, and Astley is suing for millions of dollars.

Still, what do you think of Rick Astley suing Yung Gravy for copyright infringement regarding their two biggest songs? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, come back to HNHH for the latest in music law, copyright, and cheeky samples.

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Vic Mensa Rocks “STRAWBERRY LOUIS VUITTON” With Thundercat & Maeta On New Song

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Vic Mensa just dropped “STRAWBERRY LOUIS VUITTON,” a wondrous new single featuring Thundercat and Maeta. While the last we heard from the Chicago artist was his Black Star Line Festival in Ghana with Chance the Rapper, he’s still grinding that music. Moreover, this new track sees Vic in a new sonic direction, integrating lush instrumentation and beautiful harmonies.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 25: Vic Mensa attends ‘A Night Of R&B’ presented by Roc Nation Label at the BVLGARI Hotel London on January 25, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by David M. Benett/Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty Images)

Furthermore, this new song will likely land on Mensa’s upcoming album, which he said is already done. Still, fans knew the 29-year-old to be a versatile artist from the jump. Moreover, he’s dabbled with hip-hop, electronic music, punk, and a few other similar genres. As such, “STRAWBERRY LOUIS VUITTON” might not even be the main sonic pallet on his next project.

However, with a lot of guitar promo on his social media right now, it’s not a bad guess, either. Overall, this song features a bright and layered soundscape for the artists to explore, with deep bass, steady percussion, and vocal harmonies galore. Also, contributing guests Thundercat and Maeta provide some amazing vocal contrasts to Vic’s emphatic rap flows and smooth vocal lines.

All artists soar over this production, and it makes for a soothing and remarkably chilled-out song. Given this trippy direction for the “Liquor Locker” artist, his most recent community effort makes sense. Moreover, he donated about $10,000 in gas (no, not that gas) and pre-rolled joints (yes, that gas) to Chicago residents.

Still, what did you think of this new Vic Mensa song, “STRAWBERRY LOUIS VUITTON” featuring Thundercat and Maeta? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out some standout lyrics from the single down below. Also, if you haven’t heard it yet, you can find the track on your preferred streaming service. As always, stay tuned to HNHH for the best new music every day.

Quotable Lyrics

Voulez-vous coucher, you sweet like shea butter too avec moi?
Sweet like, I love more the Crème Brûléе, you sweet like Häagen-Dazs
Sweet like Baby Bash and Frankiе J, suga, that’s way too fly
Judgin’ by the way your mama look, I bet you stay this fine, the way your DNA designed

Q Looks For “LUV (I KNOW I WANT THIS FOR REAL)” On New Song

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Florida-based artist Q is back with a new dance-infused track, “LUV (I KNOW I WANT THIS FOR REAL).” Moreover, the track follows earlier soulful singles, such as the track “Stereo Driver” from September of 2022. While Q’s an up-and-coming talent, his raw skill and creativity brightens up even older sounds.

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 25: Steven Q Marsden aka Q performs during All Points East festival at Victoria Park on August 25, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Burak Cingi/Redferns)

Furthermore, this track has an incredibly infectious ’80s vibe to it, from the passionate vocals to the static-infused drums. Also, the down-pitched vocals that come in at certain points of the song give it a lot of character. Following previous singles, which saw him stray into sultry R&B and soul, it seems Q has a vintage skillset.

Still, the track’s production quality is top-tier, so the dated production feels intentionally charming, not sloppily arranged. What’s more is that the music video is just Q dancing, and what else is better to motivate you to get up?

Moreover, this track just has a really fun and danceable atmosphere. Even with repeat listens, you can continually find new details and melodic phrases to latch onto. Furthermore, it’s a testament to Q’s dynamism and charisma as a vocalist and instrumentalist.

Also, the track features some structural and dynamic changes, like bringing out the drums and slightly changing the song’s swing. Overall, these elements combine to make a highly enjoyable experience that should have fans foaming at the mouth for a full-length project soon.

Still, what did you think of singer Q’s latest single, “LUV (I KNOW I WANT THIS FOR REAL)”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and peep some quotable lines from the track and its music video down below. Also, if you haven’t heard this bop yet, you can find the song on your preferred streaming service. As always, come back to HNHH for the freshest finds in music each week.

Quotable Lyrics

I think I found it, I can’t seem to stop it (I know I want this for real)
The love is goin’ crazy (I’m sick and tired of fallin’ of in love), I think I need to stop it, wait
I think I found it, I can’t seem to stop it (That love is distant for real)
The love is goin’ crazy, I think I need to stop it, wait

Ray Vaughn Builds “Sandcastles” With Ab-Soul On New Single

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Ray Vaughn tapped TDE labelmate Ab-Soul for a new track, “Sandcastles.” Moreover, both MCs deliver impassioned, emphatic, and high-impact verses over a heavy banger beat. With a new project coming soon from the recent signee, Vaughn might just make his big splash this year.

INDIO, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 23: Rapper Ray Vaughn performs on the Sahara Stage during Weekend 2, Day 2 of the 2022 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 23, 2022 in Indio, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images for Coachella)

Furthermore, the last we heard from the Long Beach native was back in August of 2022 with the Isaiah Rashad-assisted “Dog House.” On that track, Vaughn matched Rashad’s often low-key but intoxicating delivery over a smooth beat. This time around, it seems he’s boasting and matching the energy of one of TDE’s premier MCs.

In fact, the California label has a lot to celebrate recently. Moreover, Ab-Soul just dropped his long-awaited album Herbert to critical acclaim last December. While Ray Vaughn isn’t featured on that project, this new single displays some strong chemistry between their performance styles. Both have their energy on high, command fast and aggressive flows with ease, and add a lot of conviction to the track.

Meanwhile, the instrumental is a mid-tempo banger with heavy bass, sharp snares, and eerie piano chords. For those enamored by this beat, producer Wallis Lane worked with the likes of Mac Miller, Drake, PARTYNEXTDOOR, and many more. Even if it falls into an engaging bounce assisted by the MCs’ triplet flows, you could remix that melody into some creepy stuff easily. Throughout the verses, the instrumental relies on muted plucked strings and ethereal synth pad samples to switch things up.

Still, what did you think of Ray Vaughn’s newest single with Ab-Soul, “Sandcastles”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and peep some standout lines from the track below. Also, if you haven’t heard it yet, you can find the song on your preferred streaming service. As always, check back in with HNHH for the best new drops in hip-hop.

Quotable Lyrics

The lil’ homie got five hundred when he ran it up off EDD
A year later, he back broke, robbin’ white folks on Beverly
All F on my report card, got a list full of felonies
Better learn to choose your words better, that’s the quickest way to put your life in jeopardy

Spitty Drops Charismatic New Single, “Not For Me”

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Indian-Canadian rapper Spitty just dropped his first single of the year, titled “Not For Me.” Even though he pursued a career in tech, music was ultimately his true calling, and he dedicated himself to it last year. Moreover, this song displays a lot of charisma, infectious energy, and raw talent.

Despite his skill, many readers might not be aware of the Jacksonville, Florida-born rapper. Moreover, fans of fast lyricism, creative production, and a healthy dose of youthful spunk will like what Spitty brings to the table. On this song, the MC starts things off with a Super Mario Bros. sample. In fact, it’s specifically the little tune that plays once you finish a stage. Maybe he’s finished a big part of his career, or he’s looking forward to the next level.

However, those surprisingly aren’t the only Mario samples on this track. Also, there’s the iconic coin chime and some other Nintendo-inspired sounds. For example, there’s some 8-bit clips of something powering down, and the main flute melody is charmingly playful. Sure, the song sounds breezy and chill enough, but Spitty’s passionate and fiery performance balances that mellow mood out.

Moreover, the Canada-based artist focuses his pen on his decision to fully embark on a musical journey. To illustrate, he raps about burning degrees, staying outside boxes, his come-up at 16, and straying from the traditional ‘modern ending.’ “Something ’bout a spouse house dog and two kids,” he raps. “That sounds cool but for now, I’ll make music, hop on stage, go nuts, just lose it.”

Still, what did you think of Spitty’s newest single, “Not For Me”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and peep some more standout bars from the song down below. Also, if you haven’t heard it yet, you can find the track on your preferred streaming service. As always, check back in with HNHH for the latest quality releases each week.

Quotable Lyrics

What’s your little rain to a great?
What’s your little wave to a lake?
You were with the big fish as a little bait
I was with the big fish ’cause that’s my prey

DrownMili Becomes A “Thrasher” On New Single

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Amityville native DrownMili just dropped his newest single, the alternative and murky “Thrasher.” While he’s still a pretty underground name, he broke out in 2022 with his single “War Outside.” Moreover, it got the attention of Rolling Loud co-founder Tariq Cherif, who tapped him to perform at Rolling Loud California this March.

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JULY 23: Rapper DrownMili performs onstage during day two of Rolling Loud Miami 2022 at Hard Rock Stadium on July 23, 2022 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Jason Koerner/Getty Images)

Furthermore, “Thrasher” is a compelling blend of alt-rock styles, metal performances and riffs, plus some well-spit verses. In fact, fans of artists like Jean Dawson, midwxst, or even Kenny Mason will find something to love here. After a menacing and grungy intro, the track blossoms into a pounding chorus and impassioned verses.

“Thrasher is a special song to me because it really captures my influences,” the rising artist stated. “I grew up listening to a lot of N.E.R.D & Rage Against The Machine so approaching a song like this- I just wanted to have fun and make something that 13 year old me would wanna listen to.”

What’s more is that those influences come through quite clearly. Moreover, the track has a lo-fi aesthetic that drowns many of its hardcore elements behind cavernous distortion. Much like the old ’90s bangers that Rage burst onto the scene with, the bass is almost more powerful than the drums themselves. However, Drown impresses with a solid verse after the first chorus in which he details his villainy. Also, there’s a lot of tension in this track, with a simple guitar riff sometimes being all that’s heard behind the artist.

Still, what did you think of DrownMili’s latest track, “Thrasher”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out some notable lines from the song down below. Also, if you haven’t heard it yet, you can find the raucous new single on your preferred streaming service. As always, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest great music releases.

Quotable Lyrics

Are you stupid or dumb? I think I’m addicted to numb, addicted to
Guns, addicted to seeing f**k n***as run, and the
Demon ’bout as black as the black night, I got b***hes coming
Over, blowing d**k like the bagpipes, the cash right

SXMPRA Is In “GOD MODE” On New Single

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Rising New Zealand rapper SXMPRA just dropped the fiery and head-banging single “GOD MODE!” Out now via 10K Projects, this new track is a raging, distorted, and succinct blend of hardcore hip-hop and nu-metal sounds. Following previous hot singles like “LOCKJAW” and “COWBELL WARRIOR!”, the mysterious MC is cooking up something menacing.

Furthermore, this track’s sonic pallet might remind some readers of a few different artists. However, the way they blend together is uniquely sharp, crisp production-wise, and balanced. Some of SXMPRA’s influences include XXXTENTACION, $UICIDEBOY$, and Pouya. As such, if you’re a fan of horrorcore, Memphis hip-hop, or the early stages of 2010s SoundCloud rap, you’re sure to find something great about “GOD MODE!”

Moreover, SXMPRA made a name for himself as a buzzing figure in phonk music. For those unaware, the genre is a sort of update to Memphis-style rap instrumentals, with its frequent use of bell melodies, plucky synths, and compressed instrumentation.

“’GOD MODE!’ was made in the exact same setting as “LOCKJAW,” but only the day before,” SXMPRA stated. “Dozy made this beat after I suggested he watch the movie Midsommar, which he found himself inspired by. This track doesn’t necessarily have a story behind it, but a story can be found in the pure aggression of the track. It’s up for interpretation!”

Still, what did you think of SXMPRA’s latest single, “GOD MODE!”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and peep some quotable lyrics down below. Also, if you haven’t heard the song yet, you can find this banger on your preferred streaming service. As always, check back in with HNHH for the best new music drops each week.

Quotable Lyrics

I electrify, really wanna make it out the motherf***in mud, a brother coming alive, It’s a matter of time till I’m really making it, I find I never really wanna be one to die,
I try to rewind, but I gotta fight the fine line, it’s finite, thinking about a night that I might
Grip the knife, slice it right through the windpipe, take a motherf***er to the back and tell them goodbye

Baby Stone Gorillas Become “Block Benders” On New Single

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Baby Stone Gorillas returned this week with a new single, “Block Benders.” Moreover, the breezy track follows their previous single “WOP,” which carried a lot of hunger and energy. These new tracks will appear on their forthcoming mixtape, The Military, set to drop on February 10th via Park Money Records/EMPIRE.

While they rose as fresh faces in West Coast hip-hop, don’t think that their hustle just got started. Back in March of 2022, they released the 23-track BABYST5XNE GORILLAS with plenty of features and highlights. Moreover, their chemistry and penchant for smooth flows makes them a really fun and engaging listen.

On this new single, the Los Angeles collective trades bars over some piano-led harmonies. However, there’s much more melodic elements in this track to discover. In addition to the resonant piano chords, a classic G-funk wailing synth line joins the chorus. Also, there are some atmospheric vocal samples that hang comfortably in the background. Moreover, the beat is simple and succinct enough to keep listeners in the mood, but not distract them from the flows.

Even though the Gorillas are making waves of their own, they’ve received a lot of external support in the industry. For example, OVO Sound Radio played their songs often, which meant a nice little promotional boost for the group. Still, a lot of that radio play came a year ago, so expectations are set for an impactful return. Given the group’s varied talent and collection of voices, such an outcome wouldn’t be surprising.

However, what did you think of Baby Stone Gorillas’ newest single, “Block Benders”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out some notable lyrics down below. Also, if you haven’t heard the track yet, you can find it on your preferred streaming service and peep the music video on YouTube. As always, stay tuned to HNHH for the best new music drops each week.

Quotable Lyrics

I need that Kamikaze, drop-top with suicidal doors,
I’m rapping, but I’m a fully trained assassin, I’ll up the score,
Spend it, spend again, then spin again until we clear the board,
We makin’ noise, his face seen that chopper, then he lost his voice

CJ Goes “GANGSTA” On New Song

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Staten Island rapper CJ just dropped his newest single, “GANGSTA.” Moreover, the new track sees CJ in a more introspective, emotive, yet focused state of mind. While his last solo releases were singles, he kept quite busy with features and appearances during 2022.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – AUGUST 22: Rapper CJ performs onstage during Hot 97 Summer Jam 2021 at Met Life Stadium on August 22, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Thaddaeus McAdams/Getty Images)

Furthermore, the 26-year-old just inked a new deal with AWAL (SONY) and James Cruz’s Cruz Control. In fact, it marks his artistic independence since the success of his two-times platinum hit, “Whoopty.” Moreover, CJ has a new album on the horizon this year, plus ambitions of Hollywood projects.

This new track is much more low-key than some of his most well-known output. While the drum pattern is recognizable, it also fits the song’s more mellow and understated instrumentation. Little distracts from the Staten Island rapper’s flows and lyrics other than some atmospheric synth pads. Even with a more skeletal set of elements, CJ’s perspective comes through to impress.

Meanwhile, his features on albums like French Montana and DJ Drama’s Coke Boys 6: Money Heist Edition heightened his profile. While the sound of New York drill defined much of his breakout material, it’s clear that he’s moving on to more dynamic approaches. On this song, CJ reflects on his hardened come-up before success and the details of said life that live in his mind. After a lot of hot singles and career maneuvering in the industry, it’s heartening to see a rising rapper take direct control of his work like this.

Still, what do you think of CJ’s newest single, “GANGSTA”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out some notable lyrics 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 best new releases each week.

Quotable Lyrics

How you think it feel everyday you gotta keep it on you?
Waking motherf***ers up you’re tired of n***as sleeping on you
Tryna move onto the better things, move to where the weather change
I know a plug that sent her things how you expect me to stay the same?

The Kid LAROI Shares New Single “I Can’t Go Back To The Way It Was”

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The Kid LAROI just dropped his newest single, “I Can’t Go Back To The Way It Was.” Moreover, it follows previous tracks like “Thousand Miles,” though it’s unclear whether this most recent single will appear on his next album. Given that it’s subtitled “(Intro),” some fans believe that this single will open up the Australian artist’s next move.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 14: The Kid LAROI performs at the OBB Media’s Grand Opening of OBB Studios on January 14, 2023 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for OBB Media)

However, the 19-year-old stated that this new song is not the first single off the new album. Furthermore, his fanbase interpreted this message a couple different ways. First, there’s the possibility that “Thousand Miles” will appear on the new album, reportedly titled THE FIRST TIME. Then, some fans assumed that it just wouldn’t appear on the album at all.

Still, perhaps the most interesting theory relates to one of his unreleased demos, “Love Again,” which made rounds on social media. Given the announcement that the previously leaked song will drop next Friday (January 27), many believe that the leak was the true “first single.” Even with all these theories floating around, “The Way It Was” is enough to keep fans hungry for even more.

Moreover, this new single is quite short, clocking in at just one minute and 37 seconds. Despite its brevity, the track feels grandiose, dramatic, and like it’s heralding in something greater. After all, it is an “intro.” Over choral harmonies, a stark drum beat, and watery synth pads, LAROI floats with ease. However, lyrically, he dives into his past, his forward momentum, and what it took to get him to this point.

What did you think of The Kid LAROI’s new single, “I Can’t Go Back To The Way It Was”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and peep some standout lyrics down below. Also, if you haven’t heard the track yet, you can find it on your preferred streaming service, plus peep the video on YouTube. As always, log back into HNHH for the best new music each week.

Quotable Lyrics

I broke bones and I shed some blood
And time took a few friends I love and
No matter which way I run
I can’t go back to the way it was