new album

Gene Noble’s New Album Will Make You “Feel A Way”: Listen

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If you’re in the mood for some undeniably excellent R&B tunes this weekend, we suggest you stream the latest from Gene Noble. On Friday (January 20), he delivered his second full-length project in eight years, complete with a handful of previously released singles as well as some new titles that you’ll surely love.

“It’s been a minute since I put out a full body of work! I wanted to cover a lot of different feels to get reacquainted with the people that have checked for me, and also introduce myself to those unfamiliar,” the artist told Rated R&B of his recent arrival.

Singer/Songwriter Gene Noble poses for a photo befor his performance at The Mint on November 3, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/Getty Images)

“Champagne Jack” and “The Cost” both landed on DSPs prior to Noble’s grand return. Speaking on the latter, he previously said, “Nothing in life is free. Everything has a cost. At times that cost is too high or too unknown and we’re left to figure it out. This song is a reflection of the toll that cost can take on a person.”

“The high cost of fame, the high cost of dreams, the high cost of love, friendships and relationships… it can be a bit heavy to consider and yet as social beings, interaction is necessary. All of our desires are reachable as long as we are willing to pay the cost,” the Kansas native went on.

Along with the project’s arrival, Noble has markedly declared “whatever it is” to be the focus track. Feel A Way marks his first release since Rebirth of Gene in March 2014, which made it to the iTunes R&B Albums Top 20 chart.

Stream Gene Noble’s latest album on Spotify or Apple Music below. Additionally, make sure to check back later today to find more new releases on our R&B Season update.

Feel A Way Tracklist:

  1. The Cost
  2. Champagne Jack
  3. This Groove
  4. S’posed 2 Be
  5. whatever it is
  6. Feel A Way
  7. So Dry
  8. Affirmation

[Via]

Boldy James Drops New Album “Indiana Jones” Amid Car Crash Recovery

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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).

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.

Tracklist

  1. Saints and Sinners (Ft. Cassie Jo Craig)
  2. Dopey (Ft. Sir Michael Rocks)
  3. Wrong Side of Town (Ft. Ann One & Jonathan Chapman)
  4. Electric Blue (Ft. Jonathan Chapman)
  5. SOS (Ft. Chuckstaaa)
  6. Hunnit Sales (Ft. Cassie Jo Craig & Sir Michael Rocks)
  7. Still Slappin (Ft. Detroit King Tape)
  8. No Extender
  9. Never Had a Friend
  10. Frozen (Ft. Cassie Jo Craig)
  11. B22’s
  12. 8 Days (Ft. Gue Wop & Jonathan Chapman)
  13. Tell it All
  14. Kat Eyes
  15. Muchas Gracias (Ft. Detroit King Tape)
  16. Another Bando (Ft. Jai Imani)
  17. Dead Game (Ft. Sammy Haig & Sir Michael Rocks)

Summer Walker Teases New Project Without Auto-Tune

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One of R&B’s most versatile singers promised fans that she’s going back to her roots, and they can’t get enough. Summer Walker recently shared some pictures of her in the studio and teased “an autotune free project.” Moreover, she showed a digital audio workstation (DAW) with many tracks and audio recordings, which look like something grandiose.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 09: (Editorial Use Only) Summer Walker performs on the main stage during Wireless Festival at Finsbury Park on July 09, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

As such, many in the comments were incredibly excited at the prospect. Some even referenced earlier projects or tracks of hers like “Session 32,” an intimate fan-favorite and one of her first big hits. Since then, albums like “Over It” have cemented her presence in the industry with a variety of styles and approaches.

However, this isn’t the first time that the Atlanta native hinted at a new direction. Following what many perceived to be a Grammy snub last November, Walker wrote the following on Instagram: “These award shows gone play me [regardless] ima go back to making the soul music I love.”

Many fans agree. “And she still needs to get all her trophies & flowers for the “Over it” Album, the Album is LEGENDARY,” one user commented under the new post.

Although she set expectations high with this new tease, it’s also incredibly admirable considering that she recently welcomed twins. She recently shared how she dreamt of motherhood and how she reached her goal.

“I really reached my goal of hella kids before 30,” the “No Love” star posted on her IG story. Also, she reflected on how difficult yet rewarding the birth process was for her.

“I’m so proud of myself,” she wrote. “Just sharing to inspire other women, cause I know once you carry twins to almost 42 weeks, especially with one breech, people will try to steer you towards induction or C-section.

“You can do it,” the 26-year-old continued. “This was my second home birth all natural 7 hrs, no tearing & I couldn’t of done it without my spirit guides, Godparents, birth team, my elders, & the best dad doula ever Larry lol, he was so hands on the whole time I was really impressed it wasn’t easy but it gets done.”

Are you excited for a new Summer Walker project with no auto-tune? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, come back to HNHH for the latest on upcoming music in hip-hop and R&B.

A$AP Rocky Releases New Single “Same Problems?”

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A$AP Rocky’s gearing up to drop off his forthcoming album this year. Today, he blessed fans with one of the most anticipated singles off of the record.

This afternoon, A$AP Rocky dropped off his new single, “Same Problems?” in its entirety. The rapper initially debuted the single at his Amazon Music performance in December, which immediately captured fans’ attention.

When he debuted the song, he displayed images of some of the rappers who’ve passed away in recent years, from Drakeo The Ruler to MF DOOM.

In contrast to “Shittin Me,” A$AP Rocky’s latest single finds him taking on melancholy production with little percussion and additional vocals from Lil Yachty. Instead, Rocky croons over gentle guitar strings and hallucinatory synths. The Harlem rapper continues to push the envelope with each project, so it’ll be interesting to see how his next body of work shapes up.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 08: A$AP Rocky performs during the Amazon Music Live Concert Series on December 08, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Amazon Music)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 08: A$AP Rocky performs during the Amazon Music Live Concert Series on December 08, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Amazon Music)

A$AP Rocky’s new album is reportedly titled, Don’t Be Dumb. The rapper hasn’t set a release date but he previously indicated that Metro Boomin will have a heavy presence on the project.

“I’m gonna put it to you like this: This next album needs to be just called Flacko Boomin, you hear me?” A$AP Rocky said. “Most artists wanna make [collabs just because they’re hot]. For us, it’s like, that’s really my n***a.”

Peep A$AP Rocky’s new single below. We’ll keep you posted on anymore updates on Rocky’s forthcoming album.

Quotable Lyrics
Momma sayin’ I’m a satellite
Jumpin’ off the Porsche, I ain’t afraid of heights
I won’t drop the bag even when I’m breakin’ nice
Breakin’ bad I was breakin’ night, Kid Cudi, “Day ‘N Nite”

Trippie Redd Shares Tracklist For New Album, “MM”

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Trippie Redd has shared a star-studded tracklist for his upcoming album, MM. In a social media post from Monday, Trippie revealed all 25 songs from the new project.

Among the features included on MM are Future, Lil Baby, JuiceWRLD, Travis Scott, Lil Durk, Kodak Black, and many more. Additionally, Chief Keef is expective producing the album, as well as being featured on “Atlantis” and “Rock Out.”

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 01: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Trippie Redd performs on day 1 of Wireless Festival 2022 at Crystal Palace Park on July 01, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Burak Cingi/Redferns)

Trippie has yet to share the cover artwork nor the release date, but teased doing so soon on Instagram.

“Mansion Musik comment #MM 80k times if you want the COVER and RELEASE DATE #MM $MM ?MM !MM,” Trippie captioned the tracklist. “I love you all and thanks for your patience. GO ! Executive produced by @chieffkeeffsossa.”

Numerous artists shared their excitement in the comments of the post. Among them are Drake, Cole Bennett, Rich The Kid, DDG, and more.

On top of releasing MM, Trippie is also slated to hit the road with Future, Kodak Black, Polo G, EST Gee, Babyface Ray, and others on the One Big Party Tour.

The new album will be Trippie’s first full-length effort since signing his massive $30 million deal with 10K Projects.

“Elliot signed me when I was 16,” he wrote in a statement regarding the deal. “From the start, he’s always pushed me to do everything on my own terms which is the most important thing to me. I’m grateful to have had him as a partner for this long and excited to make more hits with 10K and keep growing together.”

Check out the full tracklist announcement from Trippie Redd below.

[Via]

Frank Ocean Teases New Album With Merch Poster

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Frank Ocean hinted at releasing a new album in a story included on a poster from his latest merch drop. The piece focuses on a “fictitious Recording Artist,” who can be presumed to be Ocean.

“In the summer of 2019, Blonded produced a photo series shot on Thursday, August 8, 2019 by photographer Michael Marcelle. The photo series follows the story of a fictitious Recording Artist as he navigates the radio system,” the message begins.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 06: Frank Ocean attends The 2019 Met Gala Celebrating Camp: Notes on Fashion at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 06, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/WireImage)

He continues: “In one scene the actor Jeremy Strong plays a chairman of a major record label […] The Chairman is flanked by another figure. Both are dressed in suits, wearing ties, and are positioned behind a long boardroom table.”

From there, the story begins to clearly mirror that of Ocean’s own career over the last few years. He argues in favor of releasing singles as opposed to albums, something Ocean focused on from 2017 through 2020 with “Chanel,” “DHL,” “In My Room,” and more.

“The Recording Artist attempts to explain to the major music label the singles distribution model as opposed to the long-form album model,” Ocean adds. “The Recording Artist believes the latter to be outdated, and that releasing singles is more suited to modern consumption habits where people curate their own playlists which are then shared within private circles. The meeting does not appear to be productive.”

Ocean concludes by suggesting he “has since changed his mind about the singles model.” He adds that he’s once “again interested in more durational bodies of work.”

Check out the full story from Ocean’s foldout poster below.

[Via]

LL Cool J Teases New Album In 2023

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As 2023 gears up for new music, many artists are letting us know there’s heat on the way. The latest to do so is LL Cool J, who promised fans a new album in 2023. Moreover, his last studio project was ten years ago, with 2013’s Authentic. Given his classic catalog and incredible impact, he set up big musical expectations for the year.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 07: LL Cool J attends SiriusXM and Pandora Playback with Mount Westmore including E-40, Too Short & Ice Cube at SiriusXM Studios on December 07, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Randy Shropshire/Getty Images for SiriusXM)

Furthermore, he tweeted the announcement as part of his 55th birthday celebrations last Friday (January 14). While he didn’t directly acknowledge the big day, he shared a video of DJ Z-Trip gifting him a custom art piece. Also, he shared his big plans for the year and set himself up for a grand return.

“I’m competing with myself on this new album. Wait til you hear this MF,” the MC tweeted. “This year B. It’s coming.”

Moreover, his previous album Authentic arrived five years after his swan song for Def Jam, Exit 13. While he was on the legendary label, he released a project every two or three years from 1987 to 2008.

Even though excitement is high for a long-awaited return, this isn’t the first time he’s teased it. In fact, he teased the release of G.O.A.T. 2 in various interviews in 2014, a sequel to his eighth studio project. Despite his absence in the music lane, he is still a monumental figure in hip-hop and found success in other lanes such as acting.

In 2018, he founded Rock The Bells, a brand focused on uplifting hip-hop culture and communities. Its namesake is LL’s 1985 hit of the same name. Through original content, business partnerships, merch, and more, they preserve the genre’s history and contributions. Most recently in August of 2022, they held the first Rock The Bells Festival. It featured Rick Ross, Ice Cube, Lil Kim, Remy Ma, Scarface, Fat Joe, and many more.

Next, the brand’s eyes are set on the inaugural Hip Hop Experience Cruise to celebrate the art form’s 50-year history. In partnership with Sixthman, the Norwegian Pearl is hosting the cruise from Miami to The Bahamas from November 14th to November 17th this year. Still, performers haven’t been announced, but Trina and Trick Daddy will welcome guests with a concert as part of a kick-off party.

Are you excited for LL Cool J’s new album dropping in 2023? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, stay tuned to HNHH for updates on hip-hop history and new releases.

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Vedo Goes Through “Mood Swings” On New Album

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Michigan-born singer Vedo graced fans with Mood Swings, his latest solo album since 2021’s 1320. On it, the R&B star toys with varying styles in the genre, from classic sultry slow-burns to brighter trap-influenced tunes. Overall, it makes a concise and varied collection of tracks that don’t overstay their welcome.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 12: Vedo during Mood Swings Listening Party at Chelsea House on January 12, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

While Vedo garnered his fame among other stars on The Voice, this album doesn’t need much outside assistance. Moreover, there are only two features listed: rapper-singer Tink and superstar Chris Brown. Him and Vedo released their track “Do You Mind” just last week as a single.

Furthermore, that track is one of the more upbeat and breezy moments on the album. Also, it’s playfully lustful and provides a nice contrast to the project’s more melancholy cuts like “FOREVER.” Some standout lines from the song are “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. You so good, I wanna give my heart to you. Put that ass in park and send a car to you.”

That being said, the former Voice contestant also throws it back to more old-school styles of R&B. For example, there’s the opener “Waterfalls,” with its wailing guitars, lumbering tempo, and cavernous drums. Moreover, there’s a nice variety of snap beats, trap percussion, and live instrumentation to make each track feel part of a larger whole. However, Vedo’s vocal range and melodic tendencies are always at its core.

Still, what did you think of Vedo’s new album, Mood Swings? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and peep the tracklist down below. Also, if you haven’t listened to the album yet, you can find it on your preferred streaming service. As always, stay up to date with HNHH for the best new releases in R&B.

Tracklist

  1. Waterfalls
  2. Celebrate
  3. Somebody Else
  4. Soul
  5. Do You Mind (feat. Chris Brown)
  6. Consistency
  7. You and Me
  8. FOREVER
  9. Tell Me
  10. D.A.F.
  11. C.O.B. (Reason)
  12. Somebody (feat. Tink)
  13. Only

The Other Guys Produce Skyzoo’s “The Mind Of A Saint” Album: Stream

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We’ve had plenty of new and exciting singles for you to stream this weekend. Mixtapes, however, have been few and far between. Perhaps the most noteworthy arrival came via 21 Lil Harold, who previously dropped off After The Curse on Friday (January 13). Aside from that, Skyzoo’s The Mind Of A Saint also caught our ear.

Across 10 tracks, the Brooklyn native chiefly puts himself into the world of FX’s Snowfall. Specifically through the eyes of Franklin Saint (played by Damson Idris), the rapper chronicles the human condition.

Rapper Skyzoo performs during Meet The Musician: Skyzoo, ‘Music For My Friends’ at Apple Store Soho on August 7, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Noam Galai/WireImage)

“When making this album, I wanted to do something that creatively pushed a button,” he said in a press release. “Something that served a purpose, while trying to understand both sides of the fence that it represents.  The idea of a fictional character, Franklin Saint, and what his innermost thoughts could be when dealing with the worlds he’s caught in between.”

Snowfall is currently preparing for its sixth and final season, proving that it’s amassed no shortage of fans across what’s been nothing short of an impressive run so far.

Skyzoo adds, “What makes it so intriguing is that his character and his world are mirrors of a time and era that really happened.  The birth of one of the world’s most addictive drugs and how its ripple effect took on a life that may seemingly never die.”

“The crack era was one of the worst chapters in black America’s story.  Using the ‘Snowfall’ series as a vehicle to delve into both sides was truly fascinating as an emcee.  It’s a project that is layered beyond measure.  If you’ve never seen [the show], you’ll walk away thinking this is a really great album. If you’re an avid fan, you’ll truly feel as if Franklin, the conflicted boy genius turned millionaire and career criminal truly did pick up a pen and pad to write his life story over a bed of beats.”

According to the New Yorker, this is one of his most intense projects to date. Thankfully, he had the help of The Other Guys’ incredible production to further push his story along.

Stream Skyzoo’s The Mind Of A Saint project on Spotify or Apple Music below. Afterward, tell us your thoughts on the creative new album in the comment section.

The Mind Of A Saint Tracklist:

  1. Eminent Domain
  2. Views From The Valley
  3. Panthers & Powder
  4. Straight Drop
  5. 100 to One
  6. Bodies!
  7. The Balancing Act
  8. Brick by Brick
  9. Apologies In Order
  10. Purity

BabyTron Comes Through With “Bin Reaper 3: New Testament”

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BabyTron keeping his foot on the gas in 2023 shortly after a successful year in 2022. The rapper slid through last year with impressive outings like MegaTron and Bin Reaper 3: Old Testament.

Finally, the rapper delivered Bin Reaper 3: New Testament after building anticipation in the past few weeks. BabyTron’s slick wordplay, sports references, and unmatched ear for beats culminate into his latest body of work, which also boasts more features than ever before.

Babytron. Photo credit: Cyrus Tetteh
BabyTron. Photo credit: Cyrus Tetteh

BabyTron’s Bin Reaper 3: New Testament contains 26 songs in total of new music, safe for the previously released singles, “Mr. Hanky” and “Ricky Henderson.” Though he does connect with fellow Michigan staples over the lengthy tracklist, he also connects outside of his region. Babyface Ray, ShittyBoyz, Drego & Beno deliver incredible performances during the duration of Bin Reaper 3: New Testament. At the same time, artists like Cordae, Rico Nasty, Lil Yachty, and DaBoii are among the few names attached to the project.

Bin Reaper 3 is yet another strong effort from BabyTron, who keeps leveling up with each project. He’s undoubtedly proving that he’s one of the most consistent rappers in the game. As he once told SPIN, “Like Kobe said, ‘Mamba mentality.’” The rapper’s continuously pushed himself with each release, whether his choice of samples or the references to legends that came before him. Following the release of his latest effort, we’re excited to see what else he has in store for the remainder of the year.

Check out the tracklist below and stream Bin Reaper 3: New Testament. Let us know your favorite track off of the project in the comments.

  1. Forever $cams
  2. Next Level 2
  3. Golden Child
  4. #FREEUNKY
  5. Gimme Dat (feat. Lil Yachty)
  6. CatDog (feat. BabyFace Ray)
  7. Beetleborgs (feat. Cordae)
  8. Mr. Hanky
  9. Remote Control
  10. RIP Hutch (feat. Rico Nasty & Remble)
  11. Mike Amiri Monster
  12. Vintage Tron Pt.1/Vintage Tron Pt. 2
  13. Euphoria 2
  14. Sunday School
  15. Dirty Draco (feat. KanKan)
  16. Zap Zone (feat. Certified Trapper)
  17. Ricky Henderson
  18. Waffle House (feat. Drego & Beno, ShittyBoyz, RMC Mike, BabyFxce E, J1Hunnit & Prince Jefe)
  19. Mainstream Tron 2
  20. 100 OVR
  21. Za Morant
  22. You Would’ve Thought (feat. DaBoii)
  23. Animorph
  24. 2 EA$Y
  25. Tronalation 28:27
  26. [BONUS] I Can’t Call It (feat. $camaurion)