Mixtapes

Talib Kweli & Madlib Reunite On “Liberation 2” Ft. Mac Miller, Westside Gunn & More

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Talib Kweli and Madlib created an undeniable classic when they joined forces on Liberation. The 9-song effort showcased Talib Kweli’s sharp lyricism over Madlib’s soulful, psychedelic production. It was a perfect pairing of collaborators, though its success didn’t necessarily spark an immediate urge to release a sequel. Fans waited for years, hoping to hear some sort of update from Kweli and Madlib.

In recent times, Talib Kweli and Madlib began working closely together again. It began with the release of the latest Black Star project, No Fear Of Time. Madlib held down the production on the entirety of Talib Kweli and Mos Def’s follow-up to their 1998 debut, Mos Def & Talib Kweli Are Black Star. The reunion between Kweli and Mos Def alone was enough to leave backpackers salivating at the mouth. However, Madlib’s assistance in the production sealed the deal for those who waited over 20 years for Black Star to reunite. And then, they began plotting the release of Liberation 2 when they dropped, “Longevity.”

Talib Kweli & Madlib – Liberation 2

Though it’s been less than a year since Mos Def and Talib Kweli reunited for No Fear Of Time, Kweli is back less than a year later with the sequel to Liberation. He and Madlib team up for the 15-song endeavor, which they launched with the release of “After These Messages” ft. Amani. The project includes a posthumous appearance from Mac Miller, as well as features from Westside Gunn, Roc Marciano, Q-Tip, Pink Siifu, and more. 

“The materialism and debauchery that is stereotypically associated with hip-hop has lost some of its luster,” Kweli said of the project. “Madlib and I have been consistent in our messaging. Never has there been a better time for such honest, message-driven music that pays tribute to the sounds that came before us.” Unfortunately, Liberation 2 is exclusively available on the Luminary podcast network and there hasn’t been much mention of its release on DSPs yet. We’ll keep you posted on any more updates. 

Liberation 2 Tracklist

  1. Assata’s Code (feat. Diani)
  2. Best Year Ever
  3. Air Quotes (feat. Diani)
  4. Nat Turner (feat. Cassper Nyovest & Seun Kuti)
  5. One For Biz (feat. Wildchild & Q-Tip)
  6. Loop Digga’s Revenge (feat. Goapele)
  7. Ad Vice (feat. Diani & Pink Siifu)
  8. Wild Sweet Love (feat. Moonbyrd & jessica care moore)
  9. Wild Beauty (feat. Moonbyrd & Keenyn Omari)
  10. The Right to Love Us (with Mac Miller)
  11. After These Messages (feat. Amani)
  12. Richies Part Two (feat. Roc Marciano & Westside Gunn)
  13. Marathon Thru Babylon (feat. Meshell Ndegeocello)
  14. Something Special (feat. Roy Ayers)
  15. Assata’s Reprise (feat. Jamie Branch)

Chiiild Wishes Listeners “Better Luck In The Next Life” On New Album

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Before the weekend comes to an end, we’ve got more New Music Friday leftovers for your consideration. This week, Chiiild joins the roster of artists unleashing new albums, following singles like “Bon Voyage” and “Good For Now” featuring Lucky Daye with his 12-track Better Luck In The Next Life album. It arrived at midnight on March 3rd and has since earned the creative an abundance of new listeners.

Besides the aforementioned guest appearance, Chiiild also worked with a host of other talented lyricists. Alina Baraz and Caitlyn Scarlett join him on “Hell And High Water,” while Charlotte Cardin helped out with “I Hope I Packed A Parachute.” The rest of the album’s songs, the Canadian experimentalist handles on his own.

Chiiild and Lucky Daye are Feeling “Good For Now”

On his link-up with Daye, Chiiild markedly reflects on how important it is to stay present. “Tell me that we’re dreaming, don’t say that we’re in love, uh / Whatever this is, it’s good for now, at night we’ve been restless,” he sings. “You say that we’re destined, I say you’re just caught in the moment/ When you’re close, I get reckless, laying in the wreckage.”

In a press release, the “Pirouette” hitmaker described his new album as “a bit of an autobiographical record that covers all of the things that [he loves] and some of the things [he’s] gone through.” He noted that it’s a “very honest” body of work that only begins to tell his personal story and answer questions not only about his career but also about who he is as a person.

Stream Chiiild’s new album, Better Luck In The Next Life on Spotify or Apple Music below. Afterward, tell us what your top three favourites from the tracklist are in the comments. If you’re in need of more release recommendations, find them on our weekly R&B Season playlist update here.

Better Luck In The Next Life Tracklist:

  1. Better Luck In The Next Life
  2. Bon Voyage
  3. Antidote
  4. Good For Now (feat. Lucky Daye)
  5. Hell And High Water (feat. Alina Baraz and Caitlyn Scarlett)
  6. Surfing The Silver Linings
  7. I Hope I Packed A Parachute (feat. Charlotte Cardin)
  8. Mile-End
  9. Into The Deep End
  10. (Running Out Of) Hallelujahs
  11. Hiding In Plain Sight
  12. You Get Me (A Final Word)

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Masego’s Self-Titled 14-Track Album Has Arrived: Listen

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Throughout his career, Masego has cooked up a solid roster of collaborative releases, such as “Mystery Lady” with Don Toliver and “Silver Tongue Devil” featuring Shenseea. For his latest full-length album, however, the Jamaican has opted to switch things up in favour of a featureless release. His 14-track self-titled effort landed this New Music Friday (March 3), and it’s already got listeners singing his favourites.

The “Tadow” hitmaker preceded Masego with several singles, including “You Never Visit Me” and “Say You Want Me.” Additionally, he poured his Gemini duality into his “Two Sides” track, which received an accompanying music video a few weeks back. “Two sides, choose your fighter, I’ll be your type, it’s a fine line, answer a Gemini, Gemini,” he sings to the camera.

Masego Reveals His Gemini Duality in “Two Sides” Visual

Now that he’s got a collection of new music that’s been shared with the world, Masego is once again ready to head out on the road. On March 13th, his first show will take place in Santa Ana, California at The Observatory. Afterward, the 29-year-old has booked stages in Miami, Boston, New York, and Dallas before he wraps up the You Never Visit Me tour in April.

Ahead of his new album’s release, the singer’s Instagram feed lit up with a message of gratitude for his loyal followers. “Thank you to anyone that drives, flies, and journeys to watch me perform. Tour is my favourite part about being an artist. Pure artistry and I promise I’ll give my all every night as I will with anything I pour myself into.”

Stream Masego’s new self-titled album on Spotify or Apple Music below. Afterward, tell us your top three favourite titles from the tracklist in the comments. Make sure to check back on Sunday (March 5) for more release recommendations on our R&B Season playlist.

Masego Tracklist:

  1. Black Anime
  2. Sax Fifth Avenue
  3. What You Wanna Try
  4. Afraid of Water
  5. Down In The Dumps
  6. You Play With My Heart
  7. Remembering Sundays
  8. Who Cares Anyway
  9. Bye Bye My Love
  10. Say You Want Me
  11. Two Sides (I’m So Gemini)
  12. You Never Visit Me
  13. In Style
  14. Eternal Sunshine (Fire Pit)

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slowthai Pushes The Boundaries On “UGLY”

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Slowthai is far from a conformist. Since emerging in 2019 with the critically acclaimed, Nothing Great About Britain, he became a singular voice in the UK scene. It earned him praise from artists like Skepta and A$AP Rocky, who tipped their hats to his punk-rock ethos and abrasive energy. However, even with a unique sound, he didn’t allow the praise to define him. With his follow-up project, he pushed against the status quo even further with a triumphant comeback after a brush with cancel culture.

Today, the rapper unveiled his latest body of work, UGLY – an acronym for U Gotta Love Yourself. The latest project boasts no credited features across the 12-song tracklist. The assistance isn’t needed, as he links with an impressive roster of producers on the project including Kwes Darko, Dan Carey, and more to bring the project to life. He remains in the punk rock pocket but fuses together glitchy electronic sounds that bring a flare of intensity to the tracklist.

Slowthai – UGLY

Ahead of the project’s release, slowthai unloaded a number of singles on his fans such as “selfish,” and “Feel Good.” In a statement, he explained that his latest body of work is a reflection of dealing with the persona that comes with the territory of being a musician while remaining authentic to himself. “People see you as a character. They don’t actually know who you are. You’re stereotyped as the nutter who gets in his boxers,” he said. “I was doing that to show that you should be free at shows and enjoy yourself but you choose to see me as an idiot.”

“It doesn’t matter what or who people think you are, you’ve just got to stay true and respect yourself,” he continued. “I have UGLY tattooed on my face because it’s a reminder to love myself, rather than put myself down constantly or feel the impression people have of me should determine who I am as a person.” UGLY is certainly one project that’s going to remain on repeat for the coming months. Check his new album above and sound off with your thoughts in the comments. 

Mach-Hommy Drops Ethereal Project, “Notorious Dump Legends: Volume 2”

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Haitian-American rapper Mach-Hommy just released his latest project, the short but sweet Notorious Dump Legends: Volume 2. Moreover, the album is effectively a collaborative effort with Tha God Fahim, as he appears on almost every track here. Still, it’s well within the boundaries of excellence, skill, and vision you’d expect from Hommy. Overall, it’s a cohesive and succinct collection of somber production, grounded lyricism, and creative sample-based beats.

If you haven’t heard of Mach-Hommy, he’s one of the architects behind Griselda who’s blossomed a mysterious and cult favorite career of his own. While his affiliation with the Buffalo rap collective’s been on and off for the past few years, he reconciled with Westside Gunn a couple of years ago. As a result, he forms part of that same style while distinguishing himself as an idiosyncratic artist.

Mach-Hommy’s Notorious Dump Legends: Volume 2

For example, his critically acclaimed 2021 album Pray For Haiti saw him rapping in creole, honoring his home, and delivering even more abstract verses and beats than his more hardcore counterparts. Also, Hommy’s one of the more prolific rappers in the game at the moment, at least when considering his caliber. He dropped six projects last year between long-form releases and EPs. With his skill and dedication to making art in mind, we wouldn’t be surprised to cover new releases from him many more times this year.

Still, what did you think of Mach-Hommy’s latest album, Notorious Dump Legends: Volume 2? However you feel, let us know in the comments and check out the project’s tracklist down below. Also, if you haven’t heard it yet, you can find the album on YouTube above or your preferred streaming service. As always, check back in with HNHH for the best new music each week from all corners of hip-hop.

Tracklist
1. Pissy Hästens (with Tha God Fahim)
2. Bad Hands (with Tha God Fahim)
3. From Vailsburg To Vaudeville (with Tha God Fahim)
4. Happyness (Skit)
5. N***as Sooooo Good (with Tha God Fahim)
6. Cold Milk (with Tha God Fahim)
7. Everybody (Source Codes) [with Tha God Fahim]
8. Olajuwon (with Tha God Fahim)
9. Wellness Cheques (with Left Lane Didon & Big Cheeko)
10. Nan Dezo (with Tha God Fahim)

Macklemore’s “BEN” Album Is Here Featuring DJ Premier, NLE Choppa, Morray, And More

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So far, 2023 seems to be bringing out big comebacks from artists previously taking lengthy hiatuses from releasing music. Last month we saw Rihanna take over the Super Bowl Halftime show with her iconic performance, and now, we have the first album from Macklemore since 2017. On Friday (March 3), the Washington-born artist shared his long-awaited BEN project, boasting plenty of interesting collaborations for your consideration.

His first single came in 2022, “CHANT” featuring Tones And I. Since then, he’s also shared the upbeat “MANIAC” with Windset, “FAITHFUL” alongside NLE Choppa, and finally, “HEROES” in tandem with DJ Premier. The singles and their visuals were all well-received among audiences, and along with BEN, Macklemore had one more video in store for fans this weekend.

Macklemore’s BEN Arrives Alongside “NO BAD DAYS” Visual

In “NO BAD DAYS,” we see the “Thrift Shop” hitmaker in full dad mode, hanging out with his young daughter Collett who actually earned an official feature on the track. Other guest appearances Macklemore was able to nab on his third studio album include Morray on the closing title, “TAIL LIGHTS,” and Livingston on “SORRY.”

Additionally, Sarah Barthel of Phantogram, Jackson Lee Morgan, Vic Daggs II, and charlieonnafriday all did their part to aid the father of three with his triumphant return. Die-hard Macklemore fans will be happy to know that the rapper plans to head out on tour later this year, taking tracks from BEN to stages in 19 different cities starting in mid-September.

Stream Macklemore’s BEN album on Spotify or Apple Music below. Afterward, tell us which songs from the tracklist you’ll be adding to your playlist in the comments. Make sure to check back later this weekend for more release recommendations on our Fire Emoji and R&B Season updates.

BEN Tracklist:

  1. CHANT (feat. Tones And I)
  2. NO BAD DAYS (feat. Collett)
  3. 1984
  4. MANIAC (feat. Windser)
  5. DAY YOU DIE (feat. Sarah Barthel of Phantogram)
  6. HEROES (feat. DJ Premier)
  7. GRIME
  8. I NEED
  9. LOST/SUN COMES UP (feat. Jackson Lee Morgan)
  10. FAITHFUL (feat. NLE Choppa)
  11. TEARS
  12. SORRY (feat. Livingston)
  13. GOD’S WILL (feat. Vic Daggs II)
  14. I KNOW (feat. charlieonnafriday)
  15. TAIL LIGHTS (feat. Morray)

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Kali Uchis’ Releases Love-Laced LP, “Red Moon In Venus”

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New music is coming in heavy this Friday (March 3). The latest offering comes from Kali Uchis who’s just released her long-awaited third studio album, Red Moon in Venus. The album’s title is a reference to the rare astronomical event that occurs when a red moon aligns with Venus, the planet of love. Kali Uchis uses this metaphor as she explores the highs and lows of romantic relationships throughout the ethereal 15-track project.

The Colombian-American singer-songwriter’s unique blend of R&B, Latin, and Pop music has made her a standout star, and her new LP is one of the greatest examples of Uchis’ creative prowess. Red Moon in Venus leads with a delicate message to Uchis’ lover in the opener “in My Garden…,” floating forward to the dreamy “I Wish You Roses” single. The album continues on with lush ballads and production from Kali herself, along with Benny Blanco, WondaGurl, Darkchild and more. Red Moon in Venus also sees features from Summer Walker, Don Toliver, and longtime collaborator Omar Apollo.

Listen to Kali Uchis’ “Red Moon In Venus”

On Kali Uchis’ vulnerable “Fantasy” track with partner Don Toliver, the songstress voices her love languages and relationship goals. “Babe if you don’t worship me it just don’t work for me / Love all on me (everyone needs love) / Forget all the foolery, stay on me like jewelry / On my body, don’t let go of me,” she sings. Toliver doesn’t take her words in jest, and even admits he wants to start a family with the bilingual vocalist. The song’s production is more upbeat than most on Red Moon in Venus, and is a lofty continuation of their previously-released collaboration “4 Me.”

The album takes a turn from the more intense, lovey tracks as we listen to Kali and Summer Walker’s “Deserve Me” single, teased earlier this week. The crooners’ voices transcend on the four-minute track as they air their grievances about failing unions. True to form, Kali Uchis incorporates her signature Latin lyrics, which she also does on Red Moon’s “Como Te Quiero Yo” and “Hasta Cuando.” Uchis’ new project can now be streamed on Apple Music, Spotify, and SoundCloud.

Red Moon In Venus Tracklist:

  1. in My Garden…
  2. I Wish you Roses
  3. Worth the Wait — ft. Omar Apollo
  4. Love Between…
  5. All Mine
  6. Fantasy — ft. Don Toliver
  7. Como Te Quiero Yo
  8. Hasta Cuando
  9. Endlessly
  10. Moral Conscience
  11. Not Too Late (interlude)
  12. Blue
  13. Deserve Me — Kali Uchis & Summer Walker
  14. Moonlight
  15. Happy Now

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The Weeknd Releases “After Hours (Live At SoFi Stadium)” Album

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At the end of February, HBO released The Weeknd: Live at SoFi Stadium. The special was a look inside of the sold-out concert that intimately showcased The Weeknd’s most adored hits over his career. Following the performance, the 33-year-old artist released After Hours (Live at SoFi Stadium), which marks his first live album effort. The project curates 31 tracks from his five studio albums, presenting them in the raw manner that only in-person performances can exude.

Hopping from Starboy to After Hours, and even to Dawn FM, Live at SoFi Stadium reveals just how many hits this acclaimed artist has brought to life over the years. Beauty Behind The Madness, which was the Canadian’s second studio project, recently just earned the remarkable achievement of being the first album in history with three diamond singles. With four Grammy awards to his name, and dozens of other recognitions (including six AMA wins), The Weeknd has boasted a celebratory career since he first started secretly releasing YouTube videos of his music.

The Weeknd’s “Live At SoFi Stadium” Walks Listeners Through His Career

Next on the list of his upcoming projects is his series creation debut with The Idol. The Idol, which stars Lily-Rose Depp and The Weeknd himself, was recently met with controversial opinions. However, this hasn’t stopped the award-winning artist from expanding into the screen world. The Weeknd is also credited as a writer in the upcoming Trey Edward Shults movie starring Jenny Ortega and Barry Keoghan.

Although Live at SoFi Stadium is a compilation of The Weeknd’s previous songs, he has hinted at more music coming in the future. When asked in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter earlier this year if he has been working on new tracks, he responded, “I’ve definitely been inspired. I’ve been in the studio.” For more news related to hip-hop and pop culture, don’t skip out on HNHH.

After Hours (Live At SoFi Stadium) Tracklist:

  1. Intro
  2. Alone Again
  3. Gasoline
  4. Sacrifice
  5. How Do I Make You Love Me?
  6. Can’t Feel My Face
  7. Take My Breath
  8. Hurricane
  9. The Hills
  10. Often
  11. Crew Love
  12. Starboy
  13. Heartless
  14. Low Life
  15. Or Nah
  16. Kiss Land
  17. Party Monster
  18. Faith
  19. After Hours
  20. Out of Time
  21. I Feel It Coming
  22. Die For You
  23. Is There Someone Else
  24. I Was Never There
  25. Wicked Games
  26. Call Out My Name
  27. The Morning
  28. Save Your Tears
  29. Less Than Zero
  30. Blinding Lights
  31. Outro

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Dreamville’s “Creed III: The Soundtrack” Has Finally Arrived

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With Creed III hitting theatres today (March 3), Dreamville has finally released the long-awaited soundtrack to the movie. Creed III: The Soundtrack is an 18-track album that takes listeners through a raw journey of wide-ranging emotions, likely combining perfectly with the contemplative build-up of scenes expected in this sports drama. Now available to stream, this soundtrack hasn’t failed to live up to its hype, so be sure to check it out.

Featured in the soundtrack is a hot list of Dreamville Record’s musical talent, including Big Sean, Kehlani, and Bas. The label’s co-founder, J. Cole, also hosts his own song for the movie, titled “Adonis Interlude (The Montage).” In all, nearly 30 artists have contributed to this work of art.

“Creed III: The Soundtrack” Is Available To Stream Now

The anticipation behind this iconic collaboration between Dreamville and Michael B. Jordan’s movie has been brewing since ComplexCon 2022. Jordan spoke at the event, noting that he was “probably gonna get in trouble” for dishing out the movie’s secret. The label teased the soundtrack just a month ago with the enthusiastically-met release of JID and Lute’s “Ma Boy.”

Dreamville was accompanied by Proximity Media, Outlier Society, and Frank Brim for the execution of this project. In a press release, the goal of the soundtrack was noted as “to create a musical experience that fit not just the film’s needs but one that will be celebrated as its own piece of art—inspired by both the film and the coming together of various artists on a soundtrack that matches the film’s acclaim and impact on community and culture.” For more news on hip-hop and pop culture, be sure to check out HNHH.

Creed III: The Soundtrack Tracklist:

  1. Culture – Mez, Reason, Symba, and 8AE
  2. Ma Boy – JID & Lute
  3. Anthem (Soundtrack Version) – Big Sean and EST Gee
  4. Adonis Interlude (The Montage) – J. Cole
  5. Greater – Ari Lennox
  6. Ogogoro – Bas and Ayra Star
  7. Just Face It – Blxst
  8. Headhunters – Westside Boogie and Cozz ft. KevinRoss
  9. Jack – Earth Gang ft. Buddy
  10. Hate Me Now – Arin Ray, Mereba, and Omen
  11. Talk 2 Me – Omen, Ari Lennox, OG Dayv
  12. Lay Up – Sir ft. Syd
  13. Long The Way – Morray
  14. In The Room – BJ The Chicago Kid, JID, and Tierra Whack
  15. Shadows – Kehlani
  16. Burn Bridges – Lute, Cozz, Reason, and Arin Ray
  17. Heavy Is The Head – Baby Rose
  18. Blood, Sweat & Tears – Bas and Black Sherif ft. Kel-P

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Young Nudy Shares “Gumbo” Ft. 21 Savage & Key Glock

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Young Nudy is quite possibly the most consistent rapper out of Atlanta with a prolific output to show for it. Though he was never poised to become a breakout star with pop sensibilities, his gritty, oddball sound has turned him into a pivotal figure in the Southern rap scene. One that is frequently championed among rap circles on the streets and online. So, with it being a new year, fans undoubtedly looked forward to what he had in store for 2023.

Each one of Nudy’s projects feels better than the last. In 2021, he blessed fans with back-to-back releases of Dr. EV4L and Rich Shooter – two projects that further cemented his name in hip-hop. Then, he came through last year with his project EA Monster, which dropped to critical acclaim. Needless to say, he’s had fans anticipating his next move throughout the last seven months, especially since he’s not one to necessarily release too many singles ahead of his next project.

Young Nudy – Gumbo

Shortly after a hacker breached Nudy’s vault and leaked over 100 songs, the rapper returned with his latest body of work, Gumbo. The 13-song project finds Nudy back into this spacey, warped soundscape that sounds even more refined than his previous projects. The majority of the project was produced by Coupe, though there are contributions from Pi’erre Bourne, 44 and Hazel. Additionally, 21 Savage and Key Glock join Nudy on the tracklist as the only two features on Gumbo.

Each song off of Gumbo is named after food (i.e. “Pot Roast” ft. Key Glock and “Fish & Chips.” The body of work further showcases Nudy’s off-kilter flow and unconventional approach that paints a broader picture of Atlanta. The “EA” rapper continues to showcase his range without necessarily leaving his pocket, even when he treads towards a more melodic delivery. Check out Nudy’s latest project and tracklist. Where does Gumbo rank in Nudy’s catalog? Sound off in the comments on your thoughts on his latest project.

Gumbo Tracklist

  1. Brussel Sprout
  2. Pancake
  3. Portabella
  4. Pot Roast ft. Key Glock
  5. M.R.E
  6. McChicken
  7. Okra
  8. Peaches & Eggplants ft. 21 Savage
  9. Shrimp
  10. Duck Meat
  11. Fish & Chips
  12. Hot Grease
  13. Passion Fruit