female artists

Kari Faux Proves She Knows Her Worth On “ME FIRST” Single

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2022 saw the arrival of some undoubtedly strong releases from female artists. It seems as though that trend will continue into 2023 – based on what we’ve heard so far, anyway. Obviously, Ice Spice’s EP took streamers by storm this past weekend, but now we’ve got Chloe Bailey’s debut album to look forward to, and a new single from Arkansas native Kari Faux.

On Tuesday (January 24), her “ME FIRST” track markedly landed on DSPs. It comes accompanied by a UNIIQU3 Jersey Club remix that’s surely just what your workout playlist needs.

Rapper/singer Kari Faux poses at Afropunk Brooklyn at Commodore Barry Park on August 24, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Matthew Sperzel/Getty Images)

The catchy, upbeat song was produced by Phoelix, 2forwOyNE and Park Ave. The trio clearly nailed the confident, feel-good vibe that Faux was going for.

Speaking on her first single of the year, the Houston-based rhymer dished, “‘ME FIRST’ is an affirmation. It’s a reminder not to neglect your own needs in hopes of being liked or accepted. It’s really a self-love bop for the twerkers. Get into it!”

According to a press release, this is just a taste of the magic Faux plans to bring later in the year.

Her last full-length project, the deluxe cut of Lowkey Superstar, quickly became a favourite amongst fans. Across 12 titles, she worked with names like JID, Jazz Cartier, Baby Tate, Smino, and Deante’ Hitchcock.

Stream Kari Faux’s “ME FIRST” on Spotify or Apple Music below. Additionally, make sure to come back this Friday (January 27) to hear more amazing new releases from some of our favourite artists.

Quotable Lyrics:

You like the way its fitting in my Eckhaus Latta
Wanna put a baby in it cause I’m shape like a bottle
Always do the most, rev it up full throttle
I may be 5’6″ but my face on model

[Via]

Chloe Bailey’s Debut Solo Album: R&B Diva Reveals Title & March Release Date

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We’re not even a full month into 2023 yet, and already the new music we’ve heard has been undeniably amazing. Besides what artists have already dropped, it seems as though a highly anticipated new album is being announced multiple times a week. The latest lyricist to give us some good news regarding their debut project is Chloe Bailey.

Of course, the world already loves her for her work alongside little sister Halle Bailey on their Ungodly Hour project. That previously landed back in 2020, boasting popular titles like “Do It,” “Forgive Me,” and the titular track.

Chloe Bailey and Halle Bailey attend the Chloe x Halle launch of their PINK Holiday Gift Guide on November 10, 2022 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Victoria’s Secret PINK)

As the younger of the two began an exciting venture into the world of Disney, Chloe launched her career as a solo artist. She shared her “Have Mercy” hit at the end of 2021. While Halle was “Under The Sea” with Flounder and other friends on The Little Mermaid set, her sibling was performing at the VMAs and teasing more amazing singles to come.

It initially seemed as though we may hear Bailey’s debut album arrive last year, but instead, she built up plenty of suspense with her sultry songs. First, we heard “Treat Me” in April, and after that, she had some fun on the Shemix of “GYALIS.”

Arguably the most salacious of Chlöe’s recent singles is “Surprise,” in which she flirtatiously sings about having her panties pulled to the side.

Finally, Chlöe gave us “For the Night” featuring Latto at the end of October. Ahead of the popular track’s release, the vocalist revealed during a Twitter Spaces session that she wrote it about Gunna and their short-lived fling that took place in early 2022.

Of course, the world has been eager to hear more from the 24-year-old. Thankfully, she’s been sharing countless thirst traps on her Instagram feed to fill the appetites of hungry fans.

One of them arrived on Tuesday (January 24), along with exciting news regarding her long-awaited release. “‘IN PIECES.’ MY DEBUT ALBUM. MARCH 2023,” she wrote in the caption.

The accompanying video clip sees Chlöe wearing bright red locks and a skin-tight dress in the same shade. A front cutout reveals her cleavage for the camera, and gold hoops dangle from her ears. In either hand, she appears to hold golden objects on a platter.

Read everything Bailey had to say about writing music about Gunna here. Afterward, let us know who you want to see featured on her debut solo album in the comments.

[Via]

Kali Uchis & Coco Jones Sound Ethereal On Our “R&B Season” Playlist

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January is quickly coming to a close, but we’ve still got a few more months of winter ahead of us. This weekend, several R&B starlets are doing their part to heat up your playlist amid the chilly weather.

Kicking things off is none other than Kali Uchis, who delivered her “I Wish you Roses” single on Thursday (January 19). Sounding as ethereal as ever, the lovely track finds her vocals floating over production by Dylan Wiggins and Josh Crocker.

“I was a rose in a garden of weeds / My petals are soft and silky as my sheets,” the dreamy lyrics go. “So do not be afraid to get pricked by the thorns / While I’m here, I’m someone to honour.”

Drake came through with some exciting news this weekend, revealing that OVO has signed its first female artist – Naomi Sharon. The R&B singer is making a name for herself with two enchanting singles.

Firstly, we have “Celestial,” and a bit further down, you’ll find her “Another Life” song. Speaking on their professional partnership, Drizzy wrote, “I been waiting for this day for too long now where the world finally gets to digest the insane amount of work you have put in since we met. My dear friend just dropped her single on OVO Sound.”

Thus far, the reception to Sharon’s releases has been incredibly positive. Hopefully, more of the same magic will come from the vocalist later this year.

Bel-Air actress Coco Jones also caught our ear this weekend. In 2022, she made a tantalizing R&B debut with her What I Didn’t Tell You EP. On Friday, the deluxe cut arrived, complete with four new titles.

While they’re all worth listening to, we’ve selected “Fallin” for your consideration. Finally, this week’s update is closed out by Kelela’s “Contact” single.

Further down, you’ll find recent arrivals from names like PARTYNEXTDOOR, Jeremih, and SZA.

Stream all the latest additions to our R&B Season playlist exclusively on Spotify below. Afterward, check out more weekend recommendations on our Fire Emoji update.

Coco Jones Is Back With The Deluxe Edition Of Her Debut “What I Didn’t Tell You” EP

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This weekend’s new music releases have primarily come from male artists, though a handful of female talent didn’t hesitate to show their stuff too. Not only is Ice Spice breaking personal records with her Like..? EP, but Coco Jones is also pleasing fans with the deluxe cut of her debut project, What I Didn’t Tell You.

The original edition previously arrived in November, complete with seven titles. Of those, “ICU” and “Caliber” have chiefly emerged as favourites amongst listeners.

Coco Jones attends the Los Angeles premiere of Netflix’s “You People at Regency Village Theatre on January 17, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by JC Olivera/Getty Images)

To kick off 2023, Jones is adding a bit more to the beloved project. On Friday (January 20), her expanded version finally arrived, complete with four new titles.

One of the tracks, “Simple,” finds the Bel-Air actress connecting with renowned producer, Babyface. It first arrived on his Girls Night Out project last October, which also includes appearances from Ari Lennox, Doechii, Muni Long, and more.

Other new titles include “Fallin” and “Put You On,” as well as EP closer, “Plan B.” Additionally, the first seven tracks have been re-sequenced, giving Jones’ effort a fresh new feel.

Thanks to her undeniably hard work in 2022, the rising starlet earned an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding New Artist. She also got a Best New Artist nod at the BET Soul Train Awards, during which she performed one of her most popular new songs.

Stream Coco Jones’ deluxe cut of her What I Didn’t Tell You EP on Spotify or Apple Music below. Additionally, make sure to check back in tomorrow (January 22) for more music updates on our R&B Season playlist.

What I Didn’t Tell You (Deluxe) Tracklist:

  1. Crazy For Me
  2. Caliber
  3. Double Back
  4. ICU
  5. No Chaser
  6. Headline
  7. Spend It
  8. Fallin
  9. Simple (with Babyface)
  10. Put You On
  11. Plan B

[Via]

Ice Spice & Lil Tjay Team Up On “Gangsta Boo” Single

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Since she exploded onto the scene last summer, Ice Spice has delivered plenty of hit singles. “Munch (Feelin’ U)” initially got her on the world’s radar. That song was quickly followed by tracks like “Bikini Bottom” and “In Ha Mood.”

Now that the 23-year-old is well-established within the rap game, it was about time for her debut EP to arrive. On Friday (January 20), the New Yorker shared her Like..? project, complete with three previously released titles as well as three brand new ones.

Rapper Ice Spice attends BET Hip Hop Awards 2022 on September 30, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/Filmmagic)

The sole feature on the short but sweet effort comes from Lil Tjay on “Gangsta Boo,” which surfaced online earlier this month. Initially, Spice and her collaborator were due to film their accompanying music video ahead of the song’s arrival.

However, the “Calling My Phone” hitmaker ran into police at a traffic stop before making it to set. Upon searching the vehicle, authorities found several firearms inside, leading the young lyricist to be taken into custody.

Rather than waste the day, Spice turned the shooting day into one for her “In Ha Mood” single. Video footage captured a few days ago shows that the redhead’s hometown was going hard for her in front of the cameras as she rapped along.

It remains unclear when we’ll receive the official music video for “Gangsta Boo,” but Ice spoke with Ebro Darden to explain her link-up with Lil Tjay.

“I made the song, and then I was just thinking who I would hear on it really. But I wanted it to be a real genuine collab,” she recalled. “We’ve been friends since last year, so I was just like, ‘Yeah, who better than him?’”

Stream Ice Spice and Lil Tjay’s “Gangsta Boo” collab track on Spotify or Apple Music below. Afterward, check out the Bronx rap diva’s debut Like..? EP here.

Quotable Lyrics:

A baddie gon’ get what she like
So what’s your sign ’cause I like you?
Got a place we can stay for the night
But I’m too shy to invite you

Erica Banks Shows Out On Her “Gossip Folks” Freestyle

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Now that Megan Thee Stallion is moving on from 1501 Certified Entertainment, it’s been up to Erica Banks to “keep the lights on” for the record label’s female rap fans. Thankfully, she delivered all through 2022, and it looks like that energy is only gaining momentum into the new year.

Last June, the “Buss It” hitmaker shared her Diary of The Flow Queen project, complete with 13 titles. While she held her own on many of them, Bankroll Freddie joined in on “Nasty,” and DreamDoll and BeatKing came through for the most popular song, “Toot That.”

Erica Banks attends the VIP Red Carpet Screening of “The Dirty 3rd: Next Generation”on November 16, 2022 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images for “The Dirty 3rd: Next Generation”)

Since then, Banks has been keeping us entertained with several remixes, collaborations, and freestyles. We heard the TUA Remix of “The Best,” as well as her work with cupcakKe and Tweeday on “HDBG Shemix.”

Most recently, she teamed up with SMITH and Tay Money for “Poppin’ Them Tags,” amassing over 1.2 million streams on Spotify alone.

Fans are undeniably eager for a new full-length project from the 24-year-old. Lately, though, it seems her energy has been going toward crafting clever freestyles.

Early on Tuesday (January 17) afternoon, Banks dropped off her take on Missy Elliot’s classic “Gossip Folks.” Her confidence is evident in the accompanying music video as she raps lines like “Arrogant, bitch! I’m goin’ Tae,” and “Pull up in that pretty motherf*cker like a debut.”

Stream Erica Banks’ “Gossip Folks” freestyle on SoundCloud below. Afterward, tell us your thoughts on the Texas native’s latest work in the comment section.

Quotable Lyrics:

Don’t let the money make you
Cryin’ ’bout a n*gga, bitch, fake news
If I offer out a shot I’ll probably take two
Pull up in that pretty motherf*cker like a debut

Ice Spice’s “In Ha Mood” Music Video Shoot Had The Bronx Turning Up

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In recent years, no one has had a come-up quite like Ice Spice. Just last summer, it was her “Munch (Feelin’ U)” single that turned the world on its head, and now, her “in ha mood” track is having a similar impact on the masses.

While it first started gaining attention thanks to apps like TikTok, the song is now available across all streaming platforms. From the looks of things, we’ll also be getting an accompanying music video in the near future. If the rising rap diva’s past work counts for anything, this one is sure to be equally as lit.

Rapper Ice Spice attends BET Hip Hop Awards 2022 on September 30, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/Filmmagic)

TMZ obtained footage of the Bronx baddie filming in her borough of the city on Monday (January 16). In the clip, Spice stands on top of a car while rapping along to her bars. Instead of her signature ginger afro, she’s sporting a sleek, straight hairstyle with bangs.

“Like, what? Let’s keep it a buck / Bitches too borin’, got ’em stuck in a rut,” the crowd sings along as the New Yorker dances and flaunts her figure. “Lamborghini roarin’ when I hop out the truck / Pretty bitch like Lauryn with a big ass butt, yup.”

Many eyes were on Spice at the shoot, but the dancers in the crowd are what really kept the energy going. Even in the chilly winter temperatures, they clearly know how to have a great time and enjoy the music.

As it turns out, yesterday’s set was actually for the 23-year-old’s collaboration with Lil Tjay, “Gangsta Boo.” However, the latter is under arrest after law enforcement made contact with him at a traffic stop. It’s been said he was brought in in connection with an “alleged weapons violation.”

At this time, we know that five men were inside the vehicle with four handguns. Fans are presently waiting for more details regarding the situation. With any luck, we’ll see Spice and her colleague on set together in no time.

Are you excited for the “Bikini Bottom” rapper’s upcoming visuals? Sound off in the comments, and check back later for more music updates.

[Via]

Lana Del Rey Poses Topless On Upcoming Album Artwork

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After delivering Chemtrails Over The Country Club and Blue Banisters in 2021, Lana Del Rey took something of a well-deserved break last year. However, now that 2023 is settling in, the “Dealer” singer is more than eager to begin releasing new music again.

Her ninth studio album was previously announced as Did You Know There’s A Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd. Aside from that, the public knew little – until the 37-year-old gave an update earlier this week.

Lana Del Rey attends the Pre-GRAMMY Gala and GRAMMY Salute to Industry Icons Honoring Sean “Diddy” Combs on January 25, 2020 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Gregg DeGuire/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

In a black-and-white Instagram post that violates nudity guidelines, Lana poses topless. She sits on the floor, one arm behind her head. Her button-down shirt is left open, exposing her right breast. As NME reports, the NSFW image is the alternate artwork for the project.

The other accompanying photos see the singer in a lace bra and cardigan. A silk bow also hangs in her hair. Along with the cover, Lizzy Grant also gave fans a look at the tracklist and features. Standout titles include “Candy Necklace,” “Taco Truck x V8,” and “Paris, Texas.”

She was the sole guest appearance on Taylor Swift’s Midnights late last year. Still, Lana opted to work with all male collaborators for her album. Father John Misty, Bleachers, Tommy Genesis, and Jon Batiste will all appear on the forthcoming project in different capacities.

Lana’s initial release date for Ocean Blvd was March 10. “March 24 now, thanks,” she wrote to her followers earlier this week. “Box set, and merch.”

In December she shared her “Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd” single. It was produced by the vocalist herself, alongside Jack Antonoff, Drew Erickson, and Zach Dawes.

Find a censored version of Lana Del Rey’s next album cover below, and check back later for more pop culture updates.

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Queen Naija’s “Let’s Talk About It” Takes Centre Stage On Our “R&B Season” Update

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2022 brought us plenty of memorable R&B projects. From Brent Faiyaz’s Wasteland to Ari Lennox’s age/sex/location, our favourite artists expertly delivered exactly what their audience was seeking. Obviously, there’s some added pressure for 2023 after such an impressive year, but a few brave creators are already sharing their first releases.

Among them is Queen Naija, whose voice shines on her “Let’s Talk About It” track. Throughout her lyrics, the songstress calls out the men in her life for their confusing nature.

“Sick of puttin’ all these egotistical, n*ggas on a pedestal / All up in a woman’s business, worry ’bout your revenue,” the 27-year-old sings.

In the accompanying music video, Naija stars alongside BMF star Lil Meech. The R&B diva and two other women confront the actor, who’s been tied up, for disrespecting them.

As for collaborative efforts, we’ve got two to recommend. Firstly there’s Vedo and Chris Brown’s work on their “Do You Mind” single.

The nearly two-and-a-half minute long track is due to appear on the former’s upcoming project. Titled Mood Swings, his fans will be able to enjoy the R&B star’s new work this coming Friday (January 13).

For his part, Brown flirtatiously sings, “I like what I like, I’m not the type that’s gon’ be stalkin’ you / Oh, I know I’m a player but I’ll wait up, shoot my shot and then I follow through.”

Finally, we have is this Cam? and Maurice Moore’s “Climax,” which has quickly become a favourite amongst listeners.

Whether you’re heading on a late night drive or spending time with your boo this cuffing season, it’s the perfect jam to help set the mood.

Stream our R&B Season playlist exclusively on Spotify below. Afterward, tell us your thoughts on the new additions to our weekly update in the comments.

Lexy Panterra’s New Single Will Have You Feeling Like A “Bad Bitch”: Listen

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2022 was an undeniably huge year for several of our favourite female rappers. Consequently, it looks like there’s only more to come in 2023. Kicking off the first New Music Friday of the year with a bang is none other than social media star Lexy Panterra. She dropped off her “Bad Bitch” single and music video yesterday (January 6).

A press release markedly describes the song as a “woman’s first anthem” that’s all about living life with authentic energy. According to the artist, that’s what truly makes one a “Bad Bitch.”

Recording artist Lexy Panterra attends the Los Angeles premiere of “Surviving Sex Trafficking” at Landmark’s Nuart Theatre on March 24, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael Tullberg/Getty Images)

In the accompanying visual, Panterra explicitly dances amongst a group of diverse women. Her radiant confidence obviously shines through on camera. “The single cover art is a statement for women in Iran who are not able to be their authentic selves,” PR additionally notes.

“I’ve been experimenting with music for a long time. I love all kinds of genres,” Lexy previously said of her work. “With this new single, I really wanted to concentrate on women’s empowerment and what makes us strong and unique. We made it pop with the music video with all my girls and I hope all the fans really enjoy this.”

In the past, the rising star has worked with the likes of Lil Yachty and Shaun Frank, as well as Prologic and Marshmello.

Stream Lexy Panterra’s “Bad Bitch” on Spotify or Apple Music below. Afterward, tell us your thoughts on the new track in the comments.

Quotable Lyrics:

I’m gettin’ money in a different country
I wake up, eat breakfast at night time
I got guys tryna spoil me, wanna give more to me
‘Cuz I stay wet as a pipeline

[Via]