After singles galore, Lil Tjay is treating fans with a gift for their “troubles.” It’s a new project titled Farewell, and it’s following up on 2023’s 222. It’s nowhere near as long, as this one spans just eight tracks and is a scant 22 minutes. Where it shares similarities though is that it feels and sounds like an abbreviated version of past LPs. The melodic crooner and rapper details his past, struggles, his hunger to get to the top, while presenting these topics with emotive performances as well.
Some of the singles that were dispersed this year make it onto Farewell, including “Let it Go Baby,” “Told Ya,” and “Good Life.” We began reading into the possibility that Tjay was going to drop a project sometime soon thanks to “Let it Go Baby,” ironically. On the track, he raps, “Been a minute, I ain’t been droppin’, time to go crazy.” Well, that prediction turned out to come true and we have to say we want all the credit. Jokes aside though, Tjay is sounding solid over a majority of the cuts, although, there are some mixing missteps, especially on “Long Way From the Block.” Despite his vocals being too low in the mix, it’s still an enjoyable listen, though. Tjay dropping shorter projects could be a recipe for success because we feel it’s one of his stronger bodies of work. It may feel like a bridge to something bigger, but we firmly believe that he’s got one with Farewell.
Over the last five years or so, Lil Tjay has built up quite a loyal fanbase. It’s thanks to his abilities to pen relatable and personal tracks, as well as lowkey sensual jams. The latter of which has produced some of his biggest hits to date such as “Calling My Phone” with 6LACK. Another reason why he’s become such a fixture in the East Coast scene is because of his willingness to drop. If you haven’t been keeping up, Lil Tjay has laid out a trio of singles over the last two months.
Hopefully, this means that an album is on the horizon. It’s been over a year since he dropped 222. He hasn’t announced anything officially yet, however, he may have done so in a song. This weekend, Lil Tjay delivered “Let It Go Baby,” and on the chorus is where he hints at a possible LP. “Been a minute, I ain’t been droppin’, time to go crazy,” he melodically raps on the first line. He’s already been going off lat ely, but maybe this is a sign of even more things to come. Overall, Tjay is sounding solid over the somber keys and minimal beat as he talks about stresses, people trying to bring him down, and more.
Been a minute, I ain’t been droppin’, time to go crazy When I told ’em, “I really got it,” they were so shady I been knew I would hit the top and it won’t no “Maybe” And all this s*** could stop, that’s if you go lazy Lot on my mind but I’ma always keep goin’ Ain’t wastin’ no time and I think all that s*** showin’
It’s been a rough few days for Tory Lanez and his fans. On Monday, September 9, reports came through that his prison cell was raided. During that search, any sort of recording equipment was confiscated, putting his Prison Tapes in immediate jeopardy. If you haven’t been following the Canadian rapper’s activity lately, he’s been recording new songs in real time behind prison walls. He’s been compiling them into a Free Tory Playlist for just over two months now. Then, a couple of days later, the rapper/singer penned a message revealing that the worst was true and that they are not going to be happening “until further notice”.
Even though his good deeds for both listeners and his fellow inmates alike are on hold, he’s still getting music out there. Yesterday and today, Tory Lanez added new songs to the playlist and those are “Look No Further” and “Time”. Both are Lost Tapes and are from 2016. Additionally, each come from his FARGO FRIDAYS run he started back in 2014 and concluded in 2017. Some of the songs during this stretch were released onto streaming such as “Acting Like”, “I Sip”, “Diego”, “Traphouse”, and more. Now, both “Look No Further” and “Time” are getting that same love.
Gotta know that we be flippin’ dope The coppers is on corners watching so we getting ghost But it’s you on top of my mind when I’m in the corner hustling With all of my n****s you gotta know I got to hit the folks But look, you knew the vision, I gotta hustle the dream My n****s hustle and scheme
Queens, New York rapper, singer, and producer Lil Tecca is continuing to tease his next album with “BAD TIME”. It’s potentially the fifth offering from what will presumably be called Plan A. At this moment in time, the 22-year-old has not announced an official release date nor the tracklist for it. However, Genius is predicting it to hit streaming platforms this September, so we will see what happens. In some other potential news, with “BAD TIME” being out we may have a hint as to what the cover art for Plan A could be. It features a white background with a minimalist cheetah skin clock.
Prior to this, Genius had a full cheetah skin for the artwork. We aren’t really sure what that could all mean, but we are just trying to find some more information on what could be a great Lil Tecca project. We say that because a majority of the singles have been hitting thanks to some truly sticky melodies and flows. “BAD TIME” features more of the same while the “500lbs” artist raps about being in a constant rotation of bad relationships. Based on all of these relationship cuts we have gotten it could be fair to say that Tecca is making more of a melodic/R&B type of vibe.
Check my phone, now the ho say she miss me Smokin’ this gas got me feelin’ risky When it come to a freak, I ain’t even picky Just off this fit, turn her to a pick me I stay with my twin, Mordecai and Rigby (Oh my) You worried ’bout Tec, I give a n**** fifty
Kwazii is someone who we have been shedding some light on as of recent. The artist hails from just up north in great country of Canada and he has the ability to sing and rap. In some respects, he takes some cues from the likes of his more popular contemporaries from his hometown such as Drake, Tory Lanez, and PARTYNEXTDOOR. He really is a dual threat that is looking to make some noise with each release, and to be honest, he’s doing just that. His last three singles, all of which are promoting his forthcoming mixtape, I Was Perfect To Someone, are pulling in good numbers. In fact, all of them hold the top three spots in his top 10 popular releases on his Spotify.
As for Kwazii’s newest track, it’s called “Full Circle”. It’s clear that he is going to be focusing on themes of relationships and their complexities. The focus of “Full Circle” sees Kwazii painfully and annoyingly deal with a woman who’s constantly playing games and gaslighting him. He’s trying to put in the effort to fix their problems, however, she’s not willing to do the same. “You normalizing the things I just can’t do / You stubborn got me praying tryna break through / I tried a thousand ways nothing changed you“. You can check out the new track with the link below. As for when I Was Perfect To Someone will be out, you’ll have to wait until September 20.
Moments I tend to forget I’m told are nights to remember You always creep in my head I catch that scent of vanilla They tryna keep me in check I make a check when I еnter
Pontiac, Michigan rapper and social media star DDG is continuing to feed his fans with “she ain’t leaving”. Throughout the first half of 2024, the father of one has been dropping off loosies galore on his YouTube channel. Some of them have made are on streaming, though. So far, those include this latest one, “Going To The Top”, and “Shoot Up Your Block”. The other 70 percent of them remain as exclusive drops and there has been some heaters in there. We were able to get to the collaboration with Blueface and Swae Lee, “Top”, which also has a music video that was filmed before his pal’s arrest. It seems most of these songs are ones that DDG is unleashing from his secret vault. So far, fans have been loving the steady output and it seems he is not even close to done.
On “she ain’t leaving”, DDG is back in is melodic bag, a lane we continually see him go to. “She Don’t Play”, a late 2023 release is one of his recent examples in that regard. The production is very chill with a prominent guitar loop contributing to the vibe. In addition to most of DDG’s discography, he is bragging unapologetically about his success and the women he can pull. With all of these singles, you would think that he might be inching closer to dropping an album or any kind of project for that matter. However, Halle Bailey’s partner did just drop Maybe It’s Me… last year, so we could fans might not get something until the end of ’24 or until 2025. DDG seems content with what he is delivering and that is what matters.
One thing that is pretty consistent when it comes to Lil Tjay’s music is that he is never afraid to get personal. Usually, he will focus on topics such as self-confidence, broken relationships, or coming to grips with being alone or just a handful of people. On this latest Lil Tjay single, “No No”, the latter is the thematic focus, and you can hear the rawness coming from him. As per usual, The Bronx native is mixing his high pitch singing with melodic flows over a dramatic instrumental. The latter has a steady groove to it, with sad piano keys and New York drill-esque drums leading the way.
What also seems to be another constant is that Tjay’s tracks are ideal for the late summer nights. “No No” is recapturing that same vibe for us and it will be in rotation going forward. Fans are also enjoying his messages of riding with your closest guys and making it out. However, they are noticing one major issue with “No No”. When you listen to the song, you can hear a slight fuzziness throughout Tjay’s performance. Fans were quick to point out the mixing error in his IG comments. One user writes, “this is a good song but why is the final mixing so horrible, it doesnt sound right at all, rerelease this with mixing and mastering”. Time will tell if the hitmaker makes the adjustments but give “No No” a try below.
Back to the heat, can’t relax, now I’m back on my feet We ain’t never goin’ back to the streets Money gettin’ long, n****s mad they couldn’t come along I remember they were laughin’ at me (Laughin’ at me) Bad energy, trench kid, mad energy Pray to the Lord ’cause I’m free
Melodic rap has become a dominant force in contemporary Hip Hop, with many newcomers attaining mainstream success with the genre. However, as far back as the early ’90s, the iconic musical act Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, showcased Hip Hop in a more songlike light. The legendary rapper Krayzie Bone, a member of the group, is a renowned pioneer of the style. Furthermore, his musical contributions and lyricism have solidified him as one of the best MCs ever.
The Hip Hop world has been sending prayers up for the icon after it was reported that he is currently in critical condition. Although the fruits are now being reaped a hundredfold, fans of melodic rap owe a lot to the likes of Krayzie Bone. He helped lay the foundation of the stylistic choice and design. In summary, before the likes of Drake, Flo Rida, and more, there was Krayzie. Between his solo albums and his extensive discography with Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, his legacy is untouchable.
Introducing Krayzie Bone
LOS ANGELES, CA – SEPTEMBER 24: Krayzie Bone, Wish Bone, Flesh-n-Bone and Bizzie Bone of Bone Thugs-n-Harmony pose for ‘Skee Live’ at L.A. Live on September 24, 2013 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Tiffany Rose/WireImage)
In 1991, Krayzie Bone, along with Layzie Bone, Bizzy Bone, Wish Bone, and Flesh-n-Bone, formed the Hip Hop group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. They initially called themselves B.O.N.E. Enterpri$e but later changed their name. Krayzie was born Anthony Henderson, but, along with his group mates, adopted monikers for their musical careers. The group gained national attention with their 1994 debut EP Creepin on ah Come Up, which featured the hit single “Thuggish Ruggish Bone.” However, their breakthrough came with the 1995 release of their sophomore studio album, E. 1999 Eternal, which included the Grammy-winning hit “Tha Crossroads.”
Solo Career
Following the group’s success, its members started pursuing solo careers. Krayzie Bone’s platinum-certified debut solo album, Thug Mentality 1999, was released in 1999 and featured many notable names. His solo career allowed him to further showcase his lyrical abilities and musical versatility. Beyond that, he appeared as a featured artist on tracks by collaborator and friend Mariah Carey, as well as on the chart-topping “Ridin” by Chamillionaire. In summary, he has earned double honors by achieving success as a part of a group and as a solo act.
Krayzie Bone’s Artistry
AUSTIN, TX – MARCH 20: Krazie Bone of Bones Thugs and Harmony performs onstage at the Levis Fader Fort as part of SXSW 2010 on March 20, 2010 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Roger Kisby/Getty Images)
As mentioned, Krayzie is widely renowned for his distinctive melodic rapping style. He introduced a unique element to Hip Hop by blending rapid-fire, complex rhymes, with harmonized vocal melodies. He also played a crucial role in shaping Bone Thugs-n-Harmony’s signature identity and sound. Additionally, his innovative musical approach became one of the defining features of the group’s music.
Krayzie Bone’s harmonious style complemented the voices and flow of his fellow group members, contributing to the group’s unique appeal. As a solo artist, he kept his signature and improved it even further. However, with a lot more creative room, he displayed his versatility and genius much more as a solo artist. While he is best known for his melodic delivery, Krayzie Bone also has notable lyrical skills. He often weaves intricate storytelling and vivid imagery into his verses, easily captivating listeners. His ability to paint pictures with words is an additional testament to his talent.
Legacy
A major influence, Krayzie Bone and his melodic rapping style have shaped a generation of Hip Hop artists. His contributions to Hip Hop, both as a solo artist and as a member of Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, have solidified his legacy in the genre. The icon has played a significant part in the evolution of rap music, with many newcomers imitating his style, whether they know it or not. In conclusion, Krayzie Bone has definitely earned the respect and admiration of fans and fellow musicians alike.
Louisville rapper and singer 2KBaby just released his latest project, the heart-ached but mellow Scared 2 Love. Following previous singles like “Don’t Love Me Now” featuring charlieonnafriday, this tape expands on that sentimental relationship narrative. Despite the focused theme and similar stories running through each tracks, this album boasts effective emotional and sonic variety. Moreover, the 22-year-old plays with upbeat tempos, melancholy verses, aggressive delivery, and melodic passages. Furthermore, Scared 2 Love explores love through a lot of different mindsets, and there’s something to listen to at every phase of a relationship.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – APRIL 30: (L-R) Christian Michael Todd, aka 2KBaby attends the 2022 Parlor Games Celebrity Basketball Classic at the Cox Pavilion on April 30, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Greg Doherty/Getty Images)
Furthermore, anyone can relate to 2K’s perspectives, and he takes advantage of that with a dynamic tracklist. Moreover, its first half is peppered with piano-led trap ballads like “IDKY” and “Rain.” However, the opener “Angel” and “Mood Swings” amp the energy up with rage-inspired and drill cuts, respectively. Even if this tape is thematically focused, he still injects tracks with similar energy to his previous mixtapes. For example, the last track “Overdue” contains more energetic flows like on last year’s Sorry 4 The Hate. Still, the rapper’s eccentric personality and hardened perspectives shine bright through his vocal performances. While his lyricism may be straightforward, he relies on melodies and atmospheres over words to get his emotions across.
While this project might focus mostly on connection and 2K’s own struggles with them, it’s not all such a downer. Still, what did you think of 2KBaby’s latest offering, Scared 2 Love? However you feel, let us know in the comments and check out the album’s versatile tracklist down below. Also, if you haven’t heard the project yet, you can find the tape on your preferred streaming service. Finally, as always, come back to HNHH for the best new hip-hop and other genre releases every week.
Tracklist 1. Angel 2. Don’t Love Me Now (feat. charlieonnafriday) 3. Rain 4. Mood Swings 5. IDKY 6. I Left 7. Fireworks 8. 40’s and 9’s 9. You Don’t Know The Half 10. Gone 11. Stand Love 12. Overdue
New Jersey-born and Atlanta-based artist Russ is back with a breezy and heartfelt new single, “Can’t Get This Right.” However, this track feels less like a new drop and more like business as usual for the rapper: a quality track every couple of weeks. Moreover, his last single was “PUT YOU ON GAME” just a few weeks ago, a hyped and boastful trap cut. He put out a load of singles last year, each with similar art styles but with pretty varied sonic pallets. Whether he’s working towards a compilation project or just dropping what he feels, his fans are well-fed.
SAO PAULO, BRAZIL – DECEMBER 1: Rapper Russ performs live on stage at Audio Club on December 1, 2022 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.(Photo by Mauricio Santana/Getty Images)
Furthermore, “Can’t Get This Right” is a melodic, emotive, and classic-sounding effort from the 30-year-old. While the track is about a relationship coming to an end despite both sides’ efforts, it’s not really a downer. For example, the high-pitched vocal samples in the background give the track a positive, chipmunk-soul energy. Also, the crisp and steady R&B beat will make you bob your head regardless of whether you relate to the heartbroken lyrics. In terms of Russ’s performance, he maintains a light and confident middle register as he switches between the sung chorus and melodic verses. Still, it contrasts his expressions and reflections on this track, indicating a painful and yearning end to a crumbling relationship.
While the rapper acknowledges that something needs to change in him and his partner, he realizes they can’t grow together. But enough about relationship issues; what did you think of Russ’s new track, “Can’t Get This Right”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out some standout bars from the single down below. Also, if you haven’t heard it yet, you can find the song on your preferred streaming service. As always, come back to HNHH for more quality releases in hip-hop, R&B, and any place in between each week.
Quotable Lyrics We both know what to do, but pride is in the way-way We both obsessed with bein’ right, can’t walk away-way And everytime wе fight, we question the rеlationship We don’t know if we makin’ it, it feels like ain’t no savin’ it
(@2kbaby)