Skilla Baby has quickly become one of the prominent voices out of the gritty, blue-collar city of Detroit. Even though he has been on the grind since 2015, he has been really growing over the last couple of years. With songs like “Gorgeous,” “Bae,” and “Icky Vicky Vibes,” being some of his standouts, the hardcore/trap rapper is looking to expand what he can do as an artist. That is what Skilla Baby was telling AllHipHop in a recent interview about his new tape The Coldest.
“The pressure of being a new artist, being successful, staying disciplined, and still clocking into the studio is very strenuous. But fun at the same time,” Skilla said. That is certainly the mindset of a lot of climbers in the hip-hop industry. It feels like fans nowadays put a lot of the onus on the artist to blow them away.
But Skilla Baby certainly lived up to expectations on The Coldest. He partially did so by bringing on a lot of big names. Rob49, Moneybagg Yo, Flo Milli, G Herbo, DaBaby, and Polo G are just a few to name. Across the record you will hear a lot of what makes Skilla Baby, Skilla Baby. Hard-hitting, trap bangers with rage-worthy energy.
What are your thoughts on this brand-new album The Coldest by Skilla Baby? Which songs are you gravitating toward right now and why? Who had the strongest guest performance on the record? Is he one of the best rappers out of Detroit right now? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Skilla Baby. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on around the music world.
ZelooperZ is a perfect example of crazy done right. The Detroit rapper is one to not do things normal compared to the rest of the talent from the blue-collar city. He emits the same energy as a Danny Brown for example. If you like his approach to hip-hop then you will certainly jive with him as well. The veteran ZelooperZ is back with his first solo single release since 2021 with “Smearious.”
Last year, the 30-year-old MC was pretty active in 2023. After not dropping an album since 2021, ZelooperZ went on a rampage delivering a solo tape Microphone Fiend, and Quazel, a collaboration with Quadie Diesel. He also delivered a ton of features as well. Some of his most notable include his contributions to the Valee and MVW team tape with the track “Pistachio.”
“Smearious” is a banger at its core with trunk-knocking production coming from Dilip. What adds a little extra zing and pizzaz to the song is the saxophone bits that transition nicely into some killer horn sections. ZelooperZ brings the energy you come to expect and it is a perfect mix. Be sure to check it out with the link above.
What are your thoughts on this brand-new single, “Smearious,” by ZeeloperZ? Is this one of his best performances on a track as of late, why or why not? What was your favorite element of the song and why? Is he one of the most entertaining voices in hip-hop right now? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding ZeeloperZ. Finally, stay with us for the most informative song posts throughout the week.
Quotable Lyrics:
B****, this smear too serious These b*****s way too curious Boston to Georgia, I smuggle it in through the interior Stuck in the matrix, all I see is green like Venetta Who me? N**** barkin’ up the wrong tree like Old Yeller Yemen Cafe, no Saudi Arabia
Icewear Vezzo is a certified hitmaker with a truckload of impressive songs under his belt. With groundwork going as far back as the late ‘10s, he’s part of the major wave of Detroit Hip Hop artists bringing Michigan to the charts. From his debut mixtape, The Clarity, until now, he has managed to carve a niche for his flows and has collaborated with several notable names. Moreover, he brings the heat every time with gritty, aggressive Michigan-style lyrics, coupled with a fast tempo and punchy baseline.
Icewear Vezzo is signed to Atlanta’s Quality Control Music label. As a result, this has helped him propel deeper into the mainstream. Nonetheless, he has continued to maintain his core, dedicated fanbase. Want to get a closer look at Icewear Vezzo’s songs you must add to your playlist? Then the following list is the way to go.
“Champions” With Babyface Ray
One of the smoothest songs of 2019, Icewear Vezzo and Babyface Ray engage in a friendly rivalry on “Champions.” Despite their collaboration, there’s a subtle competition as they exchange verses, almost in a bid to outshine the other. While Babyface Ray’s lines are somewhat arrogant, he remains casual and confident. Icewear Vezzo, on the other hand, brings vigor to the battle, issuing precise threats, and once again referencing his heavy dollar stash. The dynamic exchange in their verses showcases a playful competition, adding a lively touch to their musical collaboration.
4. “Sippin” With Babyface Ray
“Sippin” is definitely one of the songs to better understand Icewear Vezzo and growing up in the Michigan area. In the song, he takes a deep look into his earlier years, referencing the roles he had to play over a smooth Three 6 Mafia sample. Also featuring Babyface Ray, the selling point of this song is the lyricism. It is reflective, yet deliberate. Furthermore, in his reflections, he paints a vivid picture of his upbringing in Section 8 housing. By emphasizing how his surroundings played a role in shaping the person he is now, Icewear Vezzo showcases vulnerability, not often seen in his other songs.
3. “Mudd Baby”
In “Mudd Baby,” Icewear Vezzo opens up about the complexities of street life and the high-stakes hustle lifestyle he leads. He also reserves a few choice words for “plagiarists”– his term for the disloyal, and those who may want to question his authenticity. The confident lyrics are built on a pumped-up yet simple old-school beat, sure to get anyone up and ready to go. “Mudd Baby” has since garnered over 11 million streams on Spotify, making it one of Icewear Vezzo’s most popular songs to date.
Want to catch Icewear Vezzo go bar-for-bar with one of the biggest names in contemporary Hip Hop? Check out “Know The Difference,” featuring none other than Lil Baby. While Baby kicks things off the song with an impressive performance, Icewear Vezzo switches up the entire flow of the song. He touches on several topics across the song: his relationships, trust, loyalty, and hard work. With 17 million Spotify streams and over 9 million Youtube views, “Know the Difference” is an Icewear Vezzo essential.
“Up The Sco’” is one of the songs that give you a glimpse into the life of Icewear Vezzo. The track also features Chicago native, Lil Durk, offering a combination of the aesthetics of both areas. Icewear Vezzo gets vulnerable on this track, and it adds to the overall appeal of the song. He starts by telling the story of his rise to fame, his humble roots, and his determination to surpass his rivals. Although he’s happier now, he’s still hustling and struggling in his way.
Icewear Vezzo also raps about his struggle with addiction to lean and molly in the song. He then pays tribute to the late rapper Speaker Knockerz, who died under the influence. Altogether, “Up The Sco’” is the most commercially successful of Icewear Vezzo’s songs, and for good reason. It currently has about 29 million views on YouTube and is also one of his most streamed songs on Apple Music and Spotify.
In the late ‘90s, Slum Village emerged as a formidable force in Hip Hop. They burst into the scene with poignant lyrics and a commitment to authenticity. Despite the challenges the group and its members faced, Slum Village has endured and managed to stay together. Although their popularity has declined, the essence of the group has endured over the years. However, there have been different lineups in the group since it was first formed. Because of that, some fans may not know past members, depending on when they began listening to the group. Lovers of the group are in luck though, as Slum Village will be releasing a new album, FUN, soon enough. For old fans who lost track of the group, and newer fans, here’s an overview of the state of Slum Village and the whereabouts of its members.
Slum Village: Detroit Kings
In 1996, J Dilla, T3, and Baatin, the founding members of Slum Village, formed the group in Detroit, Michigan. Subsequently, the first album they recorded together, Fantastic, Vol. 1, unofficially dropped as a bootleg release in 1997. It wasn’t until nine years later that the group officially released the album. Nevertheless, Fantastic, Vol. 1 is still regarded as their debut album. As a trio, the original lineup signed their first record deal in 1998 with Barak/A&M Records. After Fantastic Vol. 1 made its way to listeners, the group’s popularity grew. As the group’s star ascended, they released Fantastic, Vol. 2 (2000), their acclaimed sophomore album.
Lineup Changes
While they achieved commercial success and critical acclaim, Slum Village soon faced the harsh realities of the industry, as well as inner turmoil. In 2001, J Dilla left the group to pursue a solo career. Soon after, T3 onboarded Elzhi as a new member, and along with Baatin, the trio released Trinity (Past, Present and Future) in 2002. However, shortly after the album dropped, Baatin had to drop out of Slum Village due to health complications. As a result, T3 and Elzhi were the only members of Slum Village on their fourth album, Detroit Deli (A Taste of Detroit). They remained a duo for their self-titled fifth album as well. Fortunately, in 2008, T3 announced that Baatin would finally rejoin Slum Village. In addition, he also announced that J Dilla’s younger brother Illa J, and producer Young RJ would join as members of Slum Village.
Sadly, Baatin passed away in 2009, but he had already recorded new material with Slum Village. As such, he is a credited performer on the group’s sixth album, Villa Manifesto (2010). Unfortunately, this was also the last album recorded or released with Elzhi in the lineup, as he left the group in July 2010. Subsequently, after their seventh album, Evolution (2013), was released, Illa J left the group as well. Since then, Slum Village has operated as a duo, with the current lineup consisting of T3 and Young RJ.
A founding member of Slum Village, T3 is the only one to have never left the lineup. Besides his work with the group, the rapper and producer never really embarked on any solo musical ventures. He has been the most devoted member of the group since its inception, and he remains committed to the group. Besides music, T3 also works as a radio host for Hot 107.5 Hip Hop Detroit.
While he doesn’t rap, Young RJ significantly contributed to the sound of Slum Village for years before he officially joined the group. He has production credits on Slum Village albums as far back as 2002’s Trinity (Past, Present and Future). In addition, the producer has been releasing solo and collaborative projects since the mid-2000s. On September 23, 2022, he released World Tour, his most recent album. He is one half of the current lineup of Slum Village and tours with T3 for performances.
Before Elzhi left Slum Village in 2010, he released his debut album, The Preface, in 2008. Since then, he has dropped two additional albums, as well as several mixtapes and collaborative albums. In 2020, the rapper released Seven Times Down Eight Times Up. His latest project, Heavy Vibrato (2023), is a collaborative album with rapper and producer Oh No.
As aforementioned, Illa J is the younger brother of former member J Dilla. The rapper’s solo debut album was released in 2008 before joining the group. After joining in the early 2010s, he left the group to re-focus on his solo career. Since then, he has released several music projects, including his most recent album, No Traffic (2023). Although he left Slum Village, he has appeared as a guest artist on a few of their tracks like, “Fantastic/Love Is” and “Expressive.”
J Dilla AKA Jay Dee
Another founding member of Slum Village, J Dilla only stayed for their first two albums. Subsequently, he left to focus on his solo career. Between 2001 and 2006, the producer and rapper released three acclaimed solo albums and three EPs. However, on February 10, 2006, he unfortunately passed away at the age of 32 due to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and lupus. Since his untimely demise, many posthumous projects have been released under his name. These include the iconic Hip Hop classic, The Shining(2006), Dillarronic (2015), and The Diary (2016), among others.
Baatin
The third founding member of Slum Village, Baatin first left the group in 2002 due to health complications. Subsequently, he was diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. Yet, he returned in 2008 and contributed to Villa Manifesto. However, the rapper died before the album was officially released in 2010. Baatin sadly passed away on July 31, 2009, due to an accidental overdose of drugs. He was 35 and was succeeded by his two kids, Michael Majesty Ellis and Aura Grace Glover, as well as his sister, Tina.
Detroit has been the birthplace of some of the most special talents in hip-hop history. It may not get the same shine as places like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta, but it deserves to be right up there with them. One of the reasons why is due largely in part to the former rap posse D12. Formed in 1996 by maybe the best to ever do it, Eminem, is no more. The Real Slim Shady talked about it on his surprise 2018 record Kamikaze. He addressed the fallout with his members such as Bizarre, Bugz, Proof, and the rest of the gang.
Bizarre is someone who is still going strong all these years later. Spitting aggressively since 1998, he is continuing his career with an upcoming album. It appears it will be released under Shady Records as opposed to some of his other affiliations such as Redhead. To help promote Ratt Poison, Bizarre is bringing a gritty street banger called “Uncle.”
This will be continuing a very active streak for Bizarre that started in late February of last year. He went on to drop three projects in 2023. Those were 18159 Stout, Drugged Emotions Unleashed, and HGG2. The latter of the two were collaborations with Freder Seric and Foul Mouth. Be sure to tap in when the album drops. But, for now, stream “Uncle” with the YouTube link above.
What are your thoughts on this brand-new single, “Uncle,” by Bizarre? Is this one of the better songs he has put out lately? Will Ratt Poison be one of his best records ever, why or why not? Who would you like to see featured on the project and why? Do you think any D12 member will be on the album? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Bizarre. Finally, stay with us for the most informative song posts throughout the week.
Even though he recently suffered a nasty car crash, one of hip-hop’s most prolific artists is still delivering. Moreover, Boldy James just shared his new collaborative project with producer RichGains, Indiana Jones. Furthermore, the adventurous new album reflects the Detroit MC’s ability to match his energy with any beat he faces.
NEW YORK, NY – DECEMBER 08: Recording artist Boldy James performs during Hot 97’s “Who’s Next” With Dej Loaf at SOB’s on December 8, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/Getty Images)
When the world learned of a car crash that left Boldy in critical condition, many reached out with their condolences. However, no one could’ve guessed that a brand new project would land in listeners’ laps this week. In fact, they were probably too busy worrying about his other release this week. Moreover, he dropped a physical-only EP with frequent collaborator Real Bad Man on Monday (January 16).
Sending out best wishes for a quick recovery for The D’s own @boldyjames!!!
Meanwhile, Indiana Jones sees Bo engaging with more contemporary trap production and grander instrumental pallets. While his work in the genres of drumless, boom-bap, and coke rap is monumental, he aims to impress with each release. Still, this new album is one of his most refreshing yet, even considering his incredible 2022 run. Moreover, he released five albums from December 2021 to December 2022, and this is practically a sixth entry in that feat. Furthermore, with each new drop (which seems to happen every other Friday now), Boldy cements his status as one of the best today.
However, what did you think of Boldy James’ new album with RichGains, Indiana Jones? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out the tracklist down below. Also, if you haven’t given it a spin, you can find the tape on your preferred streaming service. Still, as always, stay tuned to HNHH for the greatest new music releases each week.
Detroit’s rap prince, BabyTron, returned with a new single, “Mr. Hanky,” and with a new album announcement. The “Jesus Shuttlesworth” star announced that Bin Reaper 3: New Testament will drop next Friday, January 13th. With a slew of big-name features from Detroit and beyond, he heightened excitement with a menacing yet charismatic single. Also, this announcement marked his third project within the span of a year.
Moreover, this new album is not a deluxe or expanded version of his October effort, Bin Reaper 3: Old Testament. In fact, it’s 26 completely new BabyTron tracks featuring a host of big-name features. While the 22-year-old rarely collaborates with non-Detroit rappers, he’s switching that up on New Testament. Furthermore, this album will feature Lil Yachty, Rico Nasty, Remble, DaBoii, Cordae, Babyface Ray, and many more.
With all this in mind, “Mr. Hanky” got fans ecstatic with a menacing vocal chant sample and heavy pianos. Sure, it’s named after the Christmas Poo from South Park, but that’s just Tron’s sense of humor shining through. Moreover, he references Call of Duty, Shameless, the hip-hop game, and NBA players. While it’s funny, don’t let that distract you from Tron’s clever bars and undeniable charm.
“Mr. Hanky” came with a music video, specifically a “From The Block” performance on 4 Shooters Only. The Detroit MC rapped and smoked in a nice pink hoodie amid… toilet paper? Well, he sat on a golden toilet for his performance. Really gives his S**tty Boyz gang a whole new meaning.
Still, what did you think of BabyTron’s new single, “Mr. Hanky”? Moreover, are you excited for what’s to come on Bin Reaper 3: New Testament? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, you can check out some notable lyrics and the music video down there as well. As always, stay tuned to HNHH for the exciting, fresh, and quality hip-hop we’re bound to get in 2023.
Quotable Lyrics
I’m pickin’ up what you put down like I got scavenger I ain’t got no shame in my game, Frank Gallagher Why they count me out? I shocked the world, supreme chancellor Hundred in the clip, twenty-five each, ’cause he ridin’ around with three passengers
(@babytron)
(@_babytron)