2023

Clay “Krucial” Perry III Delivers “Switches” With NLE Choppa

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Clay “Krucial” Perry III just tapped NLE Choppa for “Switches,” a woozy and relatively low-key cut from two Memphis MCs. While Krucial is still forging his way in the rap game, the support from a Memphis star is surely useful. Moreover, last we heard of Krucial on HNHH was his project If We Must Die, which featured the likes of Trippie Redd and Blocboy JB.

ATLANTA, GA – OCTOBER 6: Rapper NLE Choppa attends a Celebration of Black Culture at Republic Lounge on October 6, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)

Even though it’s been a while since that tape, Krucial put in some work last year. Furthermore, along with a few singles, he delivered his Clay EP. Also, this newest single came with the announcement of his upcoming mixtape, Wake Me Up When It’s Over. His team announced its February 2nd release and said it would be on Tay Keith’s Drumatize (DOA) label. Given the features, it seems like a Memphis round-up, as the names included Choppa, Blocboy, Lil Migo, Kevo Muney, and Lil Beezy.

On this newest track, Krucial and Choppa’s talent solidified excitement for this new album. Moreover, their flows are fast and emphatic, the autotune doesn’t overwhelm the verses, and their writing seems sharp and measured. Moreover, there are some very dramatic vocal samples used that give the track a slightly epic feel. Even if it doesn’t reinvent the Memphis wheel, it certainly is another example of the region’s overwhelming talent and chemistry between its artists.

Still, what did you think of Krucial’s latest track, “Switches” featuring NLE Choppa? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out some notable lyrics and the song’s music video down below. Also, if you haven’t heard “Switches” yet, you can find the new single on your preferred streaming service. As always, stay tuned to HNHH for the best new hip-hop each week from Memphis and beyond.

Quotable Lyrics

Police givin’ R.I.C.O.s, I’m movin’ lowkey, so you won’t see me throwin’ no set on a picture (Let’s go)
N***as don’t like me ’cause I ran down on they partners in these size 12 Nikes
These n***as wan’ fight me, grab my pipe, it shoot s**t up in here just like Spike Lee (Grr)
Writin’ my n***a that write me, gotta watch what I say, won’t indict me
I ain’t with the KeKe b***h, just come eat me, know you ain’t gon’ be wifey

Jeremih Drops Sped-Up Version Of “Changes”

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While sites like TikTok popularized speeding up or slowing down audio, the music industry made it official by taking advantage of the demand. Jeremih is the latest artist to do so, as he dropped “Changes (Sped Up).” Moreover, the original track was a smooth, slow, and sultry R&B cut with vivid instrumentation. While the song’s original drama isn’t downplayed in the sped up version, the emotion comes across as slightly more nostalgic.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 17: Rapper Jeremih performs onstage during the 1st annual In My Feelz Festival presented by Umbrella MGMT at Banc of California Stadium on December 17, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)

Furthermore, it’s funny that something so taken for granted as tempo and pitch can drastically change a song’s vibe. Even if the lyrics are still the same, the high pitch in the piano keys make the song sound like a dream. Also, the fact that the track’s sound still fits the lyrical content speaks to the song’s dynamism. The first track came across as lustful, but the production on the sped up version reins that back a little.

Meanwhile, it’s replaced by what sounds like a West Coast type beat that could still have Lil Baby rapping over it like it’s nothing. As the R&B singer croons about a struggling relationship and being left in the dust, the verses and choruses swell in and out with warm horns and live percussion. Still, if you don’t like the sped up version, maybe the upcoming slowed down one will be more up your alley.

While Jeremih released plenty of music last year, much of it came in the form of features and guest appearances. As one of the most notable R&B singers of the 2010s, his presence on a track is sure to inject some soul no matter what. For example, he assisted singer Nakkia Gold on her relationship-heavy December album, Like Girls.

What did you think of the sped up version of “Changes” by Jeremih? Moreover, do you prefer it over the original, or do the first track’s smoother R&B leanings hit harder for you? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out some standout lines from the song down below as well. Also, if you haven’t checked it out yet, you can find “Changes (Sped Up)” on your preferred streaming service. As always, check back in with HNHH for the best new R&B each week.

Quotable Lyrics

Thoughts in the positions I can see you in (In)
Introduce you to some ghetto romance (Oh)
Handcuffs, keys up in the dresser, we can leave ’em there (Leave)
You know it don’t make no difference, I can leave it in

Celly Ru Releases “Hush” With OhGeesy

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Celly Ru just dropped “Hush” featuring OhGeesy, which will surely fit snugly on your West Coast playlist this week. In it, Celly and Geesy trade bars over a menacing piano loop, sharp drums, and a grandiose vocal sample. Moreover, it’s Celly’s most high-profile single in a while. Last we heard from him on HNHH, he collaborated with Mozzy and E Mozzy for the H.G.M. mixtape.

SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 12: OhGeesy performs during Rolling Loud at NOS Events Center on December 12, 2021 in San Bernardino, California. (Photo by Timothy Norris/WireImage)

While this is one of Celly’s most notable releases in a while, the Sacramento rapper has been putting in work consistently. He already threw his name in the ring this year with the E Mozzy collab tape Middle East. Moreover, his hustle resulted in increasingly confident verses, better beat selection, and overall upward trajectory. Sure, we’re used to hearing Celly collaborate with Mozzy and company quite often, but to link with Geesy is another treat in and of itself.

Instrumentally, each element of this track is effectively understated. Still, the focus is on the bars and flows, although the beat has some creative details that make it dynamic. For example, the main piano lines go up in pitch as the flows switch up, and there are more melodic elements than the track lets on. Atmospheric and almost opera-like vocal samples, an extra key line, and Geesy’s catchy hook.

However, it doesn’t make the song feel any less cold-blooded. As Celly and his featured L.A. guest go through their performance. there’s a husk to each of their voices. Meanwhile, the sharp hi-hats and snares contrast well with the dreamy texture of the instrumental. Lyrically, there’s a lot of debauchery and hedonism to talk about, whether it’s their money-making exploits or their relationship to others in their circle. What’s clear is that Celly adds a slightly faster, more dramatic approach to this Southern sound.

What did you think of Celly Ru’s latest track, “Hush” featuring OhGeesy? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments, and peep the music video and some standout bars down below as well. Also, if you haven’t checked the track out yet, you can find it on your preferred streaming service. As always, stay tuned to HNHH for the best new hip-hop each week.

Quotable Lyrics

I’m on the s**t, let her drive the whip and I don’t know the b***h,
She know we rich, spent $200K and I ain’t notice it
We blowin’ s**t, blow that s**t again then run it up,
That b***t left and tried to double back, these h**s be dumb as f**k

Star 2 Connects With Lil Poppa For New Song, “Pain”

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Star 2 is well on his way to becoming a household name in music. He effortlessly blends elements of hip-hop, R&B and pop into a sound that’s all his own.

On Friday (January 6), he dropped off his first release of 2023, “Pain.” The song marks the second collaboration between him and up-and-comer Lil Poppa. The first of which is 2021’s “Real Life.” The new track arrives alongside an accompanying music video.

On “Pain,” the duo further showcases their undeniable chemistry. The song finds both artists addressing their respective pain and trauma, as well as their vices. “This pain I’m feelin’ inside, it comes and goes, the nightmare / If you were in my shoes, you’d feel the same way / It’s OK, it’s my pain, I’ll find a way to fix it,” Star 2 sings in the melodic hook.

Lil Poppa follows suit, candidly rapping, “I be tryna find myself ’cause I’m missin’ / Probably won’t be proud of myself ’til I fix it / I can tell I’m walkin’ through hell, but can’t feel sh*t / Probably from all of these drugs that I’m mixin’.” The twinkling piano melody and 808s provide them with an appropriate soundscape to express themselves over.

Although Star 2 is yet to release a full-length project, he’s continuing to stay relevant through singles like this, which flaunt his emotive lyrics. Furthermore, the list of the names he’s collaborated with is rather impressive as well, including Soulja Boy, Mozzy and Luh Kel. We’ll certainly be sure to be on the lookout for his debut project, which will hopefully arrive in the near future.

Make sure to stream Star 2 and Lil Poppa’s “Pain” on Spotify down below. Comment your thoughts on the track afterwards. Finally, stay tuned to HNHH for all of the latest updates and releases.

Quotable Lyrics:

Gotta roll me a wood just to feel good
Don’t ask me why I’m smokin’ hella kush
‘Cause this sh*t helps me cope with my pain
I don’t like takin’ drugs, but I feel like it’s the only way

Stormzy Drops FLO Remix Of Song “Hide & Seek”

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London group FLO just dropped their remix of Stormzy’s “Hide & Seek” off of his latest album, This Is What I Mean. Moreover, it adds even more beauty and calming vibes than its already breezy original. If anything, it shows a true chemistry between these artists, as they emulate the original’s R&B vocals quite skillfully.

LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 16: Stormzy attends “A Very #MERKY Christmas” hosted by Stormzy at Fairfield Halls on December 16, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Stormzy’s tender performance on the track isn’t undercut. “Hide & Seek” found him in a softer and more easy-going flow and performance compared to some of his best output. Regardless, the “Vossi Bop” MC delivered an earnest and straightforward verse that meaningfully connect with the song’s message. However, in the lead-up to his November album, other singles like “Firebabe” indicated to fans that the London rapper was bound to surprise.

Still, the “Hide & Seek” remix is a quality blend of dancehall-inspired rhythms, warm acoustic instrumentation, and gorgeous R&B melodies. Moreover, FLO blend together with such harmony and grace on the track that they feel more like a choir than just three singers. However, that’s not to discount each member’s talent, as Jorja Douglas, Stella Quaresma, and Renée Downer all impress. Furthermore, their presence on the song is owed just as much to their sung lyrics as it is to the atmosphere their background vocals create.

After an incredible comeback year, Stormzy showed us why he’s as beloved as he is. For example, he made a great appearance on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, which only elevated his skill set. Given music videos and a host of other promotional material, he’s likely to have a big 2023 as well.

What did you think of FLO’s remix of “Hide & Seek” by Stormzy? Moreover, are you still bumping This Is What I Mean? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, you can peep some notable lyrics from the song down there as well. As always, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest R&B hits of the week.

Quotable Lyrics

If I leave this up to you (To you)
We’ll lose all that we knew (We knew)
Tell me, have you ever been so deep
We don’t even know where we are?

Ice Spice Gets “In Ha Mood” On Our First “Fire Emoji” Update Of 2023

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The holiday season brought plenty of hustle and bustle. As a result, it was necessary for our Fire Emoji playlist updates to take a brief intermission. With a new year, though, comes new music. We’ve accordingly rounded up this week’s best releases for you in our first edition of 2023.

This weekend, it was Ice Spice who caught our attention with her “In Ha Mood” track. It was previously making rounds on TikTok (and later posted to SoundCloud and YouTube). However, the Bronx native has now made it available across DSPs so all her fans can rap along to her infectious lyrics.

French Montana is having an unexpectedly chaotic weekend. He himself was spared from gunfire. Still, the rapper’s friend, Rob49, and his bodyguard were both shot during a video shoot in Miami.

The tragic news follows the arrival of the “No Shopping” hitmaker’s Coke Boys 6 project in conjunction with DJ Drama. Of the many songs on the tracklist, “Chit Chat” with Smooky MarGielaa and A$AP Rocky is already a fan (and Fire Emoji) favourite.

From NBA YoungBoy’s latest album, we then have “Black.” The Louisana native shared I Rest My Case on Friday (January 6). It comes complete with 19 titles on which he raps without any guest appearances.

Tony Yayo and Lloyd Banks’ new collaboration finds them riding in a “Rocket Chamber.” Among the track’s lyrics are “Insane in my blunt from Dr. Greenthumb / Got the K in the trunk, watch the drummer boy drum,” and “Momma not home, whip it up in the kitchen / Tend to get high, bag it up in the basement.”

Finally, we have a strong feature from Drake on Popcaan’s “We Caa Done.” The track is sure to make you want to hit the tropics in the near future to beat any winter blues.

Stream our weekly Fire Emoji playlist exclusively on Spotify below. Additionally, check back with HNHH tomorrow to find more new music on our R&B Season update.

Chloe Bailey’s Bikini Body Is On Full Display In First 2023 Thirst Traps

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At just 24 years old, Chloe Bailey has already accomplished far more than most people her age. Even with all the fame, fortune, glitz, and glamour, though, the 24-year-old remains humble and eager to grow into the best version of herself. Ahead of the new year, she obviously reflected on this with a heartfelt Instagram photo dump.

“This was my year of reconstruction,” the Atlanta native wrote to her 5.7M followers. “I needed the lows to make me into the person I’ve been praying to God to turn me into. I am so much stronger than I could ever imagine, and I am so proud of myself.”

She later went on, “Knowing that I got through this year, I can conquer absolutely anything. Don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do something. Believe in yourself. Hold your head up high and prove them wrong every time.”

From the outside looking in, Bailey appeared to have an undeniably extraordinary 2022. Though her debut album didn’t arrive, she did prepare fans for it with a slew of singles. Among them were “Treat Me” and “Surprise,” as well as “For The Night.”

Ahead of the latter’s release, she let the world know that the song (which features Latto) was written about YSL rapper Gunna. From the sounds of the lyrics, he simply wasn’t serious enough about pursuing her, which led their brief fling to fizzle out. Now that he’s a free man again, though, and can actually listen to the track, who knows what will happen between them?

Chloe Bailey and Gunna attend Atlanta Hawks vs Dallas Mavericks home opener game at State Farm Arena on October 21, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

Following her reflective, commemorative IG post, Chlöe came through with a series of sultry thirst traps to set the mood for 2023.

On Sunday (January 1), she told the new year that she’s “ready” for it in the caption of her photo dump. The snapshots see her modelling a tiny golden bikini, her hair styled in a large afro surrounding her shoulders.

The next day, Bailey came back with more. On Monday (January 2), she shared a behind-the-scenes video montage captured at the same shoot. See it for yourself below, and check back later for more pop culture news updates.

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Dwayne Johnson Shares Message With Fans For 2023

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Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson shared an encouraging message for his followers to welcome in the new year. In a video posted on Instagram, Johnson discussed one of his favorite mantras.

“The quote is very simple, but oftentimes, sometimes, the most anchoring narratives in our life that we need are oftentimes the most simplistic,” he began. “The quote goes like this, ‘One day, or day one?’”

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 24: Dwayne Johnson of ‘Jungle Cruise’ took part today in the Walt Disney Studios presentation at Disney’s D23 EXPO 2019 in Anaheim, Calif. ‘Jungle Cruise’ will be released in U.S. theaters on July 24, 2020. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)

Johnson further explained that he’s in “day one mode,” advising his fans to follow suit.

“What is that thing that we wanted to accomplish … that thing that has been gnawing at your gut?” he continued, before adding, “That thing that you think you have some passion about … this is day one.”

“The first step of action is in the mental declaration — the moment we say ‘today is that day’ and the universe meets us halfway,” he said.

“Whatever it is, it could be something to improve your health and fitness, your wellness, your balance, your training,” he continued. “It could be something you wanted to accomplish in school. It could be something personal, it could be your relationships, to make them better. … Let’s go do it. It is day one.”

Before finishing his post, The Rock shared a quote from late WWE legend Dusty Rhodes.

“He’s up there walking in the clouds with my dad, the soul man, the Rocky Johnson,” Johnson lastly said. “Dusty said, ‘We ain’t laughing and joking, we’re cooking and smoking, we went out there and handle business.’”

Check out Johnson’s Instagram post below.

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Nostradamus’ 2023 Predictions Include World War III & End Of The Monarchy

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With a new year, for many, comes new resolutions and the chance to step into a better version of yourself. However, each new year also comes with 365 days of potential turmoil – depending on what the universe plans to throw at us. According to 16th-century astrologer, Nostradamus, the impending fresh start could have some serious upheaval.

As the NY Post reports, the accused heretic successfully predicted many past events. Among them are 9/11, the COVID-19 pandemic, the Great Fire of London, and Hitler’s rise to power. His foresight is undeniably pessimistic in nature, which is why he’s known as the “prophet of doom.”

Michel de Nostredame, aka Nostradamus (1503-1566) french astrologer and doctor, engraving, colorized document (Photo by Apic/Getty Images)

His bleak outlook is said to be a result of the Old Testament and the trauma of losing both his wife and children to illness at a young age. In 1555 he published Les Prophéties, in which he describes future wars, civil unrest, assassinations, and the like.

For 2022, the late figure prophesized about the rise of AI, cryptocurrency’s conquering power, and a sudden rise in cannibalism due to ongoing inflation. In December we can confidently say that bitcoin was a flop, cost of living is higher than ever, and Evan Peters’ rendition of Jeffrey Dahmer became one of the most popular shows on Netflix this year.

Unfortunately, it sounds like Nostradamus’ worldview hasn’t changed much for 2023. According to him global warming will continue to cause more problems, such as an increase in fish deaths.

“Like the sun the head shall sear the shining sea: The Black Sea’s living fish shall all but boil,” he wrote centuries ago.

Elsewhere, he seems to speak of the fall of the monarchy when describing “Celestial fire on the royal edifice.” If taken literally this could mean an actual meteor or other blaze striking Buckingham Palace. However, it’s possibly a metaphor for the “bombshell” from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s new docuseries.

It’s no secret that the threat of World War III has been imminent for some time now, with the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. At this point, even Nostradamus wouldn’t be surprised to see more severe conflict break out around the globe.

Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech during the Informal Summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) on December 26, 2022 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Contributor/Getty Images)

“Seven months great war, people dead through evil,” is his book’s prediction. If you think that’s bad, just wait until you hear what he has to say next.

On top of all the other aforementioned chaos, Nos also believes 2023 will see the arrival of a highly unwanted guest. “The antichrist very soon annihilates the three. Twenty-seven years his war will last. The unbelievers are dead, captive, exiled. With blood, human bodies, water and red hail covering the earth.”

Do you think any of Nostradamus’ writings will come true next year? Let us know below. Also, if you’re curious about astrology, check out our analysis of Kanye West’s birth chart to learn more here.

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Pusha T & DJ Drama Announce “Gangsta Grillz” Mixtape In 2023

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After a crazy year for hip-hop, some artists are making it clear that next year might be even better. Pusha T and DJ Drama announced that they will release a Gangsta Grillz project together in 2023. They spoke on Rap Radar’s Brian “B.Dot” Miller’s Twitter space to share the news. King Push also announced that he’s got a solo album on the way as well. As such, fans can’t wait for new music so soon after this year’s It’s Almost Dry. 

CHARLOTTE, NC – MARCH 01: Meek Mill, Trinidad James, DJ Drama and Pusha T attend a party hosted by T.I. and Fabolous at Cameo Nightclub on March 1, 2013 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Prince Williams/FilmMagic)

We still don’t have an audio clip from the space, i.e. any proof that they said this. However, many outlets on Twitter have corroborated the clip, including Andrew Barber of Fake Shore Drive. While some fans whined that Drama’s working with an older artist and not a new face… I mean, it’s Pusha T. How could it not be great? Many are also excited about the tape’s potential features and reunions, à la Clipse on It’s Almost Dry. 

Although we’re still waiting on the 100% push from Push, it’s no wonder fans are so excited. DJ Drama worked on some of the greatest mixtapes of the 2000s with Pharrell, Lil Wayne, Ludacris, and many more. What’s more is that he’s still dropping projects today. He worked with Tyler, the Creator on CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST and with Icewear Vezzo for the recent Paint The City tape. 

Meanwhile, Pusha T’s been quite busy as of late, too. Recently, his cover story with XXL gave us a lot of insight into his career movement. Moreover, he spoke on his relationship with Kanye West, an upcoming new album, and his evolved beef with Drake. Even with all that extra news surrounding him, he’s giving It’s Almost Dry its proper credit before the Grammys. As one of the best hip-hop albums of the year, which followed one of 2018’s best in Daytona, he’s bound to drop nothing but excellence.

Are you excited for King Push’s Gangsta Grillz tape with DJ Drama? Let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, stay up to date with HNHH to catch the latest album announcements, collabs, and future classics.

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