Following the release of 2020’s Jaguar, Victoria Monét unveiled A Jaguar Christmas: The Orchestral Arrangements. Well, last year, she shared Jaguar II, and thankfully, it turns out the holiday-themed follow-up is a tradition: Today (December 11), Monét released Jaguar II Christmas: The Orchestral Arrangements.
Created alongside composer Maurice “Pirahnahead” Herd, this album puts Monét’s vocals aside in favor of a purely instrumental experience. It’s certainly a compelling listen as the center of attention, but given its modernized holiday aesthetic and lack of vocals, it should also be one heck of a party background music soundtrack this holiday season. Also, you can’t go wrong when an album has song titles like “Stop (Askin Me 4Gifts).”
Check out the Jaguar II Christmas: The Orchestral Arrangements cover art and tracklist below.
Victoria Monét’s Jaguar II Christmas: The Orchestral Arrangements Album Cover Artwork
Lovett Music/RCA Records
Victoria Monét’s Jaguar II Christmas: The Orchestral Arrangements Tracklist
1. “It’s A Celebration Every Time It Snows”
2. “Cadillac Christmas”
3. “How Does It Make You Feel”
4. “On My Mama (Christmas Medley) ”
5. “I’m The One (Jingle Bells)”
6. “Stop (Askin Me 4Gifts)”
7. “Christmas In Hollywood ”
8. “Merry Christmas Dan (Deluxe Medley)
Jaguar II Christmas: The Orchestral Arrangements is out now via Lovett Music/RCA Records. Find more information here.
When it comes to the best rap albums and songs of the entire year, there is no denying that some of them came from the month of August. Overall, we got some truly dope projects, as well as some singles that helped make the summer one to remember. The biggest artists in the game came through, while underground darlings were also able to do their thing. While some say rap is in a bad place, the releases we’ve gotten in 2024 say otherwise. Below, you can find our picks for the best albums and songs of the last month.
Let us know which of these songs and albums were your favorite, in the comments section below and stay tuned to HNHHfor the latest news and updates from around the music world.
Every single month, HotNewHipHop takes a look at the best rap albums and songs of the last 30 days. Overall, a lot of amazing music was released throughout April. From R&B to rap, we got a whole lot of phenomenal projects, and even some great singles as well. However, there was also a rap feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar that ultimately came to a head. Songs like “Push Ups” and “Euphoria” were dropped in the month of April, and it made for some entertaining fodder.
One of the best rap albums of the last month was Ehhthang Ehhthang by GloRilla. Overall, this was a project that showcased Glo’s ability to slide over beats and crank out hits. In fact, it was a return to form of sorts for her. After a couple of duds, Glo came back with a vengeance and showed people just how fantastic of an artist she really is.
PartyNextDoor – P4
PartyNextDoor is an artist who has always given us some amazing R&B albums. He has a sound that helped shape the genre for an entire decade, and he is still writing at an extremely high level. His latest project P4 could very well be one of his best. Every single song is a vibe, and if you’re looking for that slow bedroom music, than this is most definitely going to be to your tastes.
RiTchie – Triple Digits [112]
Injury Reserve artist RiTchie delivered a phenomenal project this past month. Overall, Injury Reserve was known for a plethora of sounds, flows, and ideas. With this RiTchie project, we get more of that diversity, and it makes for a truly impressive listen. If you are someone who wants to listen to something a bit different, you should definitely put this on. Overall, a fantastic effort from a great artist.
Metro Boomin and Future will always be in consideration when best rap albums are being talked about. Last month, they delivered a banger with We Don’t Trust You. As for We Still Don’t Trust You, this is a phenomenal hybrid of rap and r&b. There are plenty of silky smooth tracks on here, with Metro getting creative with his production. Meanwhile, Future slides and dances all over the record, just like he always does.
Kendrick Lamar – Euphoria
Kendrick Lamar was a lot more scathing on “Meet The Grahams” and “Not Like Us.” However, “Euphoria” is a masterclass in being a real hater. Telling someone you hate the way they dress, walk, and talk is truly bold. Especially so when you start mocking their accent while also seemingly taking shots at their cat. “Euphoria” was a spectacle that kicked off one of the most historic weeks in hip-hop’s history and for that, we thank it.
A lot has happened since the release of “Push Ups.” However, you cannot deny the energy that Drake delivered on this cut. He dissed every single person who was out to get him, and he ultimately inspired Kendrick Lamar to drop four songs in the span of one week. Moreover, he gave us memorable lines that will be yelled at parties for years to come. Our sincere apologies to Metro Boomin for that one.
Metro Boomin & Future – Drink N Dance
Future and Metro Boomin are masters of cranking out hits. “Drink N Dance” off of We Still Don’t Trust You is incredibly catchy. It makes you want to do the things laid out in the track’s title, which means it is an immediate success. Future does these records so well at this point, and Metro’s production is otherworldly. While some may find the duo too formulaic, it doesn’t really matter if the music is undeniable.
Tommy Richman – Million Dollar Baby
Tommy Richman is having a huge moment right now. The underground artist out of VA has been dominating music discourse thanks to his mega-hit “Million Dollar Baby.” The snippet for this song had fans fiening for an official release. Now, the track has arrived and it is the second-biggest song in the world. In fact, by next week, it could be the biggest. The song has fans debating what genre this is, although we really don’t care. This slaps, and that is all that matters.
JT – Okay
JT has been having a huge moment as of late thanks to her solo career. Fans have been excited by her latest stream of singles, and this is yet another example of her talent. The song is viral, and overall, it has an extremely strong and memorable hook. Not to mention, it comes complete with a memorable music video that will help carry this track’s momentum forward.
GloRilla and Megan Thee Stallion gave us a viral challenge with this track, which automatically qualifies it for best of the month. Overall, both artists did their thing on this track. They are the masters of this kind of production, and they know how to get their fans excited. We just hope Meg and Glo team up again, especially with Meg’s new album coming soon.
Which rap albums and songs did you like the best this past month?
We’re a sixth of the way through 2024, and while it was a slower month than its predecessor, February still held a lot of heat for hip-hop. Whether it was huge blockbusters, indie hits, or long-awaited returns, this year is much more exciting off the bat than in 2023’s case. With that in mind, we can only dream of what else is in store for us this spring, when releases will get much more competitive. Make sure to hit the comments section to let us know what your favorite rap releases were this year, and what you think about the year so far for the genre and culture. So get your debate hats on and let’s take a look at the best rap albums and songs of February 2024.
Yeat – 2093
Starting off with one of the best hip-hop LPs of the year so far, and debatably the best mainstream release of February. Yeat took a big step on this 20+ track behemoth, but brought with him the focus and vision of a concise 30-minute drop. 2093 is heavy, industrial, ethereal, visceral, hard-hitting, occasionally gorgeous, and yes, futuristic. But its impact and place in the rap canon for 2024 isn’t because of any pushed boundaries, because this isn’t the most revolutionary sound under the sun. It’s because the Portland rapper (or alien, we should say) synthesized a lot of different inspiration points into something wholly his own.
Quadeca – SCRAPYARD
Along a similar vein, we have this loose but consistently enthralling mixtape that makes something new out of… well, scraps. Quadeca released a few SCRAPYARD cuts last year as little EPs, and much of the material here was devised during the making of his captivating 2022 album, I Didn’t Mean To Haunt You. While they didn’t fit that tracklist, and the Bulgarian -– sorry, Californian creative said a couple of tracks made after it won’t fit on his next, this still feels like a cohesive and cathartic record. Its blends of folk, indie rock, chamber pop, industrial hip-hop, alternative rap, and much more create a uniquely mid-fi portrait of a vulnerable but boundless artist. As far as the less traveled corners adjacent to the genre, nothing else in 2024 feels quite as special as this.
Little Simz – Drop 7 (EP)
For this next entry, we’re leaving the underground and heading straight to the club to return home at 7AM the next morning. Little Simz kept fans fed ahead of her next full-length with a fun, vibrant, and punchy collection of electronic and dance-inspired cuts. There’s drum and bass worship, a Jersey club jam, house-like rhythms, and even a trunk-knicking and authentic take on Brazilian funk. Regardless, we’re sure that the English lyricist’s next project will be more of a straightforward, complete, and grand experience. But as far as some great music to simply take in and enjoy with no frills, it doesn’t get much more enjoyable or freeing than Drop 7.
Erick The Architect – I’ve Never Been Here Before
Flatbush Zombies are sorely missed in the hip-hop landscape today, but its members are still making their mark on the culture. But I’ve Never Been Here Before feels like a more personal and important artistic step for group member Erick the Architect, not like a retread of what makes the trio so great. It’s a bit moodier than their most popular material and invokes a lot more genres and instrumentation styles, although it’s as reminiscent of their woozy East Coast sensibilities as ever. Also, the album’s sheer versatility really works in its favor and elevates it beyond a comeback moment. Don’t let this one slip from your rotation in 2024.
Now it’s time to move on to singles, and there’s only one thing we can say to this Memphis MC about her new banger, and that’s “Yeah, Glo!” It’s very simple: match GloRilla with a grimy and old-school hometown beat and let her flow on it, and you’ll get an anthem for Bluff City. Still, what makes “Yeah Glo!” special in comparison to other takes on this is its infectious chorus and the 24-year-old’s raw energy. While we remain patient for a long-form project soon, it’s great to hear that she’s still got it. Rarely can artists retain the same exciting spark that burst them onto the scene, and this song is a solid example of that.
Speaking of sparks, Don Toliver came through with “Bandit” in February, an absolute banger that calls back to his originally seamless fusions of dreamy R&B melodies and amped-up rap flows. Thanks to a triumphant and layered instrumental, the Houston crooner was able to craft one of his most high-octane offerings in recent memory. Sure, he’s more well-known for his softer side these days, but fans are hoping that this kicks off a new era for him. After all, there are rock-adjacent acoustic drums and electric guitar chords here that sound like a stadium. It would be great to see the fusion that made Don such a star come back to the forefront of his work.
SZA – “Saturn”
Hopping over to the R&B realm, SZA surprised fans with a sultry, airy, and transportive preview ahead of her SOS deluxe, Lana. At least, that’s what die-hards hope will land later this year, but we wouldn’t be mad if Solana just drops more excellent loosies like these. Let’s run through the checklist: beautiful vocal performance? Check. Hazy yet lush production with a strong melodic center? Check. An emotively resonant song structure longing for escape, peace, and fulfillment in a compelling and thoroughly entertaining way? Double check, because the TDE superstar made us long for both a trip to Saturn and a journey to whatever world she created “Saturn” in.
Armand Hammer – “Doves” ft. Benjamin Booker
Even though We Buy Diabetic Test Strips came out last year, even its bonus tracks are proving why it will likely be a standout album for years to come. Its creators Armand Hammer, with special guest Benjamin Booker, released “Doves” as an extra treat to this LP, and it’s a near-nine-minute opus. It’s mostly a pretty ambient experience, with group members billy woods and E L U C I D drop languid, complex, but absolutely gut-wrenching verses over it. Pianos, static, faint guitar, and a whole lot of lo-fi noise and distortion will put you in a meditative state. We’d call it a haunting experience, or perhaps a soothing one, but the pallet created by the balance of these two spaces is too evocative to put in a single box.
TiaCorine – “Olive” ft. Zelooperz
Back to the bangers, we have two wildly colorful spitters joining forces on a disgustingly nasty beat from BNYX. This cut appears on TiaCorine’s Almost There EP, which is also deserving of a slot in the best projects section for this month. As for “Olive,” it’s all about their fast flows, zany deliveries, and how they’re able to sound so effortless and locked in over this instrumental. Yeah, it’s one of the most simple and immediate inclusions on this list, but play this in the car and you’ll see what we mean. If not, don’t fret: there are seven other gems on this short record, including “Blick” with Key Glock.
With this pick, you might have a pretty decent idea of who’s going to make our “Best Rap Songs & Albums of March 2024” list. ScHoolboy Q dropped various non-streaming singles ahead of the release of his five-years-in-the-making album BLUE LIPS, of which “Blueslides” connected the most deeply with fans. Many rightfully see it as a tribute to Mac Miller, and the melancholy and tender piano sample compliments the TDE legend’s reflections on his friend’s loss. But it also moves through many other lyrical areas of struggle, mental health, overwhelming pressure, and much more. It’s one of the most emotionally powerful cuts of the year so far, and a treat for hip-hop pen purists and production prudes alike.
Smino – “mister misfit but ain’t missed a fit in months”
Finally, this St. Louis-born rhymer chose to once again prove why he’s been one of the most exciting and idiosyncratic artists in the game. “mister misfit but ain’t missed a fit in months” is not only one of the most fun hip-hop songs of the year so far, but an impressively dexterous rapping performance that treats flows like the world’s most disposable camera: a quick and amazing snap, and onto the next. It’s really like watching Smino dance on a tightrope, and he makes it all the way to the end without breaking a sweat. Please, please drop a project this year, Mr. Misfit!
Let us know your favorite rap songs and albums of the month in the comments section below!
Overall, we have had a fantastic start to the year as it pertains to new albums and new songs. Some of the biggest artists in the game have been dropping, and it is a stark contrast to last year. Although 2023 certainly had some great releases, some fans felt it was a down year. However, we are starting strong in 2024, and that is all that matters. Having said that, we are taking a look at some of the best rap albums and songs of the past month.
21 Savage – American Dream
Firstly, we have 21 Savage and American Dream. Once again, 21 finds himself getting personal with us on a solo album. From the jump, he hits us with some scintillating bars and the production to match. Although the album may be bloated towards the end, we get enough bangers like “redrum” to keep us coming back. If anything, this album officially put the 21 doubters out of their misery.
Boldy James & Nicholas Craven – Penalty Of Leadership
Subsequently, we have Boldy James and Nicholas Craven who gave us an early AOTY contender, Penalty Of Leadership. This is easily one of the best rap albums we heard last month. From the sampling to the storytelling and introspection, this album is a feat to behold. We’re sure Boldy will be dropping more music this year, and we cannot wait to hear what he has in store. As for Craven, he continues to prove himself as an immense talent.
Xaviersobased – Keep It Goin Xav
Xaviersobased is an artist who has certainly been able to navigate the internet world with ease. He is a king of the contemporary underground, and continues to forge new sounds within the New York hip-hop scene. On Keep It Goin Xav, the artist showcases just how strong of a songwriter he is. From wavy and hypnotic production to silky flows, Xaviersobased keeps you wanting more. While some may enjoy more traditional forms of rap, this album is still worth a listen.
R.A.P. Ferreira & Fumitake Tamura – the First Fist to Make Contact When We Dap
Another great album from this past month is R.A.P. Ferreira and Fumitake Tamura’s The First Fist to Make Contact When We Dap. Once again, R.A.P. Ferreira delivers a project worthy of your attention. The bars, the production, and everything in between is on point. If you are a fan of this style of rap, then you should absolutely stop what you’re doing and give it some attention.
Benny The Butcher is an artist who is consistently found on best rap albums lists and for good reason. Overall, the Buffalo artist is extremely consistent. On Everybody Can’t Go, delivers tracks produced by Alchemist and Hit-Boy. Overall, this makes for a captivating listen. While some have proclaimed that it is not their favorite Benny project, it is still incredibly strong and worthy of inclusion on this list.
Transitioning over to songs now, we have Ice Spice with “Think U The Shit (Fart).” Okay okay. We know. That opening bar is a bit of a meme. However, the overall song is actually extremely catchy. Moreover, once the hi-hats hit in the middle of the track, it really catches its stride. If you like fun, then you will definitely enjoy this cut.
Playboi Carti – “EVILJ0RDAN”
What more can be said about Playboi Carti and his recent rollout? There has been so much good music dropping, it is easy to forget that one of the best and most reclusive artists in rap has a new album coming. As for his most recent single “EVILJ0RDAN,” it lives up to its name. The production is straight-up demonic, and Carti is coming with a new sound that is quite promising. Hopefully, the album lives up to the hype.
Maxo Kream – “Bang The Bus”
Maxo Kream and Evilgiane teamed up for “Bang The Bus,” a truly captivating song with a Frou Frou sample that may take you by surprise. That said, Maxo is known for his bangers, as well as his incredible flow and voice. That is no different on this new track, which is a must-listen. Hopefully, Evilgiane continues to get the credit he deserves as it pertains to being a producer who is creating new sounds.
Young Miko – “Bzrp Music Sessions”
Young Miko is a Puerto Rican artist who has been showcasing immense talent over the last few years. Her sound is nothing short of amazing, and her BZRP Music Sessions collaboration is something that has been on repeat. The way she weaves in and out of the hook and verse is a marvel to behold. She is certainly not a new phenom, but she is one American audiences need to pay attention to.
SiR – “No Evil”
It had been a while since we had heard any new music from SiR. Now, he is back, and we are thanking our lucky stars for that. On “No Evil,” SiR embodies the spirit of D’Angelo, all while delivering some of his best vocals to date. Oh, and the instrumental will have you shook and coming back for more. What are you waiting for? Give the song a list, right now.
Anycia & Latto – “Back Outside”
Anycia is an artist who continues to showcase her raw talent. She got a massive co-sign from Veeze, who had an incredible 2023. This past month, she came through with “Back Outside” which features Latto. The flows, the beat, and the charisma jumps out at you and it is impossible to not be intrigued. Moving forward, we cannot wait to hear more from her.
21 Savage – “redrum”
We couldn’t deliver a best songs of January list without including 21 Savage’s track “redrum.” Overall, this is a pure banger that does a great job of making a statement on American Dream. If you like Savage and his flows, then this is going to be a song you will gravitate to. It doesn’t get more straightforward than this.
Lastly, we have the song that has pretty much set off an entire firestorm on social media. Of course, we are talking about “Hiss.” The song features Megan Thee Stallion at her best lyrically. Yes, she is taking shots at Nicki and a host of others. However, beyond that, this is a banger. It shows that Meg is back, and we could not be more grateful.
Let us know your favorite rap songs and albums of the month, in the comments section below
