R&B

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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Ari Lennox Looks Radiant In New “Liquor” Music Video With Babyface

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Prior to heading out on her highly anticipated age/sex/location tour, Ari Lennox gave her fans a treat in the form of her “Waste My Time” music video. The must-hear track previously made its debut on her sophomore album. We have to admit, it’s been stuck in our heads ever since. As she performs all across the country over the next few weeks, the R&B starlet’s surprises keep coming.

On Monday (February 27), yet another visual landed from Lennox. This one brings her recent collaboration with Babyface, “Liquor” to life in a big way. The producer plays the role of a bartender, and the vocalist channels a glamorous patron of his bar. The song first arrived on his Girls Night Out project last year and quickly became a favourite amongst listeners.

Ari’s Vocals Amaze Fans on Tour

Singer Ari Lennox performs onstage during her “age/sex/location” tour at Coca-Cola Roxy on February 26, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)

“I wanna feel like I’m wasted, from the lips that I tasted / I want our love to be agin’ with time,” the Dreamville artist’s sultry lyrics set the tone of the first verse. “More vintage than wine, so smooth / I like it rough around the edges, picture perfect with no edits,” she continues to croon. On the chorus, both Lennox and Babyface’s beautiful voices come together to create a stunning soundscape. They specifically sing about taking two shots of “Liquor” with no chaser over the groovy beat.

It’s been several months since Girls Night Out first landed on DSPs, but Babyface recently kept the hype around the record going with the arrival of the extended edition. All 13 original titles remain on the tracklist, which boasts guest features from the likes of Muni Long, Doechii, and Sevyn Streeter. Additionally, he’s added two new songs – “Sometimes” with Jenevieve and “If You Knew How” with BJRNCK.

Check out Ari Lennox’s appearance in the “Liquor” music video on YouTube above. Afterward, tell us your thoughts on the sultry song and visual in the comments. If you’re in need of more release recommendations, find them on our weekly R&B Season update here.

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Diddy Says R&B Is Back In Response To Jozzy’s New EP

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Diddy says that Jozzy’s new EP, Songs For Women, Free Game For N****s, marks a revival of R&B months after he declared the genre “dead.” Diddy shared his praise for the project, which he labeled a “masterpiece,” in a pair of tweets posted on Friday. Jozzy is the first signee to Diddy’s new label, Love Records.

“When I told ya’ll RnB was dead, I was talking about the soul,” Diddy wrote. “It is what it is! I can tell you right now, IT’S BACK!!!” He added in a separate tweet: “THIS IS A MASTERPIECE.” Later in the night, Diddy further explained that he’s not trying to duplicate the success of Bad Boy with Love Records. “WE’RE NOT TRYING TO DUPLICATE BAD BOY!,” he tweeted. “THAT WAS BAD BOY! THIS IS THE LOVE ERA. EVERYTHING WE DO FROM THIS POINT ON IS GOING TO SEPARATE THOSE 2 ERAS BUT ALSO UNITE THEM IN THEIR GREATNESS!!

R&B Is Back

As for his comments on R&B being dead, Diddy had been speaking with Timbaland about the state of the genre in 2022. At the time, things got heated and he yelled at the legendary producer that “R&B is motherfuckin’ dead as of right now.” The comments sparked plenty of backlash from artists across the music industry. Among them were Brent Faiyaz, Arin Ray, Chris Brown, Mary J. Blige, and many more.

Diddy eventually clarified his comments on Twitter. “It’s been 3 days of the debate…This is the clarity of the message…It’s not disrespect to anybody,” he wrote on the site. “This conversation was out of love and me purposely wanting to bring attention to R&B! It was something that I saw the effect of the Hip hop and R&B balance. That balance is honesty and realness when it comes together, melodies, vulnerability and most importantly LOVE!!! This message is that R&B game needs more love, vulnerability, support!!”

Jozzy released the 10-track Songs For Women, Free Game For N****s on February 24 as their first EP. As a songwriter, they’ve been nominated for Record of the Year for Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road,” and Album of the Year for Beyoncé’s Renaissance as well as Mary J. Blige’s Good Morning Gorgeous.

Diddy’s Other Tweets

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OG Parker Can “Still Work” With Ty Dolla $ign & Muni Long On New Single

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OG Parker just dropped a new single with Ty Dolla $ign and Muni Long, the sultry R&B cut “Still Work.” Moreover, the track is built on hazy and pretty indistinct vocal samples that form a cloudy atmosphere. Unsurprisingly, both R&B singers give impressive vocal performances and captivating melody switch-ups. Furthermore, this track follows singles like “No Fuss” and “Rain Down” ahead of Parker’s next project, Moments. Also, the track’s music video employs a nostalgic vibe with a love story to represent the song’s longing themes. Overall, it’s a fitting track for the Valentine’s Day season and one that reaffirms finding love after a long time. Of course, what better way to represent that feeling with two of the most dominant current stars in soul?

PACIFIC PALISADES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 26: Multi-platinum producer OG Parker poses for portrait during his celebrity brunch event on June 26, 2021 in Pacific Palisades, California. (Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images)

However, OG’s production still hits pretty heavy, with a sharp trap beat with deep kicks and crisp snares. Even with the tracks more sentimental themes, you can let that hang in the background and focus on its soothing energy. Meanwhile, you can let that take a backseat to each singer’s lyrics of finding love again after rocky patches. “And the walls feel like they closin’ in,” Ty sings on the first verse. “It was good but your girls they lead a life of sin / Ayy, if you’re hearin’ this song / Girl, don’t take too long.”

Still, what did you think of OG Parker’s latest track, “Still Work” featuring Ty Dolla $ign and Muni Long? However you feel, let us know in the comments and check out the single’s music video and standout lines below. Also, if you haven’t heard the song yet, you can find it on your preferred streaming service. As always, log back into HNHH for the latest great music releases in R&B and beyond.

Quotable Lyrics
I used to wonder if you thought about me
Lurkin’ your Instagram, saw you was through and good without me
Why is it always happen like this?
Soon as I get over it, you pop back, wanna reminisce

Robert Glasper Sells Out Chris Brown-Inspired T-Shirts

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If you give Robert Glasper lemons, he’ll make a lemonade stand. The acclaimed artist earned his fifth Grammy during the 65th Annual Grammy Awards. But it wasn’t just his win that spread his name across the internet. Glasper received attention after fellow nominee for the ‘Best R&B Album’ award Chris Brown made a fuss about his loss. As per usual, Brown took to his Instagram story to express his feelings. According to Complex, Brown’s dissed the winner by writing “who the fuck is Robert Glasper?” and “I’ma keep kicking y’all ass respectfully.”

Glasper didn’t let Brown’s tantrum hinder his celebrations. In fact, the Grammy winner ended up capitalizing on the shady remarks. He ended up creating a “who the fuck is Robert Glasper” t-shirt that emphasizes Brown’s question. Within just 5 days of its presale, Glasper has proudly announced that the shirts have sold out. Allegedly, Glasper had already played around with the phrase before the Grammy’s had occurred, posting a teaser picture on January 30th. It’s likely that Glasper received his initial inspiration from the 1975 “Who The Fuck Is Mick Jagger” shirt made famous by the Rolling Stones. But, Brown’s hissy fit sure did help make this shirt even more iconic.

Robert Glasper Responds

The few folks that were able to buy a shirt before it sold out are holding a piece of history. Glasper’s response to the sales is grateful, and he took to instagram to announce the charitable cause that he plans on contributing to. He wrote, “a portion of the proceeds from this shirt will be donated to the Community Music Center of New Orleans. A nonprofit created to share the music culture and music education in New Orleans, providing free music lessons to underserved youth. I can’t thank y’all enough for supporting this cause.”

Although Brown has since apologized for his disrespectful remarks, nothing changes Glasper’s win. Black Radio III is soulful mix of jazz and r&b. Additionally, features artists like BJ the Chicago Kid, Jennifer Hudson, and Ty Dolla $ign. According to Complex, Glasper is booked to be the artist in residence at the Blue Note Jazz Festival this July.

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Masego Shows Off His “Two Sides” On Latest Single: Listen

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As he gears up to head out on tour later this spring, Masego is generating excitement amongst his fans with new music. In December, he made a noteworthy return with “You Never Visit Me.” Prior to that, we heard his voice shine on “Say You Want Me.“ The latter is due to appear on his forthcoming album.

On Friday (February 10), the 29-year-old chiefly caught our attention with his “Two Sides” single. The short and sweet song was produced by Albert Hype and his pal BASSCHARITY. While speaking with Rated R&B, Masego previously revealed the main inspiration for his latest release.

Masego performs on the Coachella stage during the 2022 Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival on April 23, 2022 in Indio, California. (Photo by Timothy Norris/Getty Images for Coachella)

“I love games. Do I ever. ‘Two Sides’ make the next person that is involved with me aware of the demons that I’m trying to fight,” the Jamaica native said. “Geminis have a bad rep. And I was letting her know that I have the potential to move in this manner because of my past and hurt.”

Masego then went on, “There’s no silver lining in this song. It’s just like, ‘I could be a bad guy. I could get what I want with my slick words and my seductive beguiling ways.’”

“Two Sides” marks the singer’s first release of 2023, and sets the tone for his upcoming tour, kicking off in March. According to a press release, this isn’t all we’ll be hearing from the “Tadow” hitmaker over the next few weeks. More tunes are set to come as Masego prepares for his sophomore album, dropping via EQT Recordings and Capitol Records later this year.

Stream Masego’s “Two Sides” on Spotify or Apple Music below. Afterward, revisit his last release, “You Never Visit Me,” here. Finally, check back later for more song recommendations on our Fire Emoji playlist.

Quotable Lyrics:

Flavour of love feels like bit of a clementine
Give me the fruit, my diet is alkaline
Think of the light as lime
Only need fifteen minutes of role-play time

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Daniel Caesar Gets Vulnerable On Beautiful New “Let Me Go” Single: Stream

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Though he was cancelled by many in the music community a few years ago, Daniel Caesar seems poised to make a grand comeback in 2023. His first single of the season, “Do You Like Me?” landed at the end of January, and has since amassed upwards of seven million streams on Spotify. Following that, his “Let Me Go” track came this New Music Friday (February 10).

The emotional title finds the R&B vocalist pleading with a lover to relinquish their grip on him. “I’m tryna breathe, why won’t you let me? / I’m tryna leave, please just forget me,” the first verse begins. “And honestly, our sun is setting / Can hardly believe this got so messy.”

Daniel Caesar performs on the Coachella stage during the 2022 Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival on April 22, 2022 in Indio, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images for Coachella)

“Let Me Go” will appear on Caesar’s upcoming album, apparently called Brutus Embarks. The effort will mark his first release since 2019’s CASE STUDY 01, which found him working alongside greats like Pharrell Williams and John Mayer. Additionally, he was joined by Brandy on one of the project’s most popular titles, “LOVE AGAIN.”

As REVOLT notes, the 27-year-old hinted that he’s entering a new musical era in the caption of a recent Instagram post. “Hello, world. I was born a few minutes ago and I’m already learning,” Caesar wrote at the time. “This isn’t supposed to be a beginning, just a long way from before. I see most of me in almost every one of you. Mirror, mirror. There is so much to talk about, we’re closer than you think. For now, let’s just call this the beginning.”

Stream Daniel Caesar’s “Let Me Go” single on Spotify or Apple Music below. Afterward, tell us who you hope makes a guest appearance on his Brutus Embarks album in the comments. Finally, check back later this weekend for more release recommendations on our R&B Season playlist.

Quotable Lyrics:

I’m not afraid of manipulation
Stuck in your ways, I’ve run out of patience
You’re lying when you tell me that you won’t be fine
I’m not leadin’ you on I’m leavin’ you behind

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Tink Gets “Toxic” On New Single

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Chicago rapper and singer Tink is back with a new song, the gorgeous and heart-ached “Toxic.” Moreover, the track is an exploration of a past relationship that she now regrets, conveying a lot of resentment and betrayed hindsight. Also, this is her first release since Pillow Talk dropped in August of 2022. Furthermore, the album featured 2 Chainz, G Herbo, Muni Long, and many more. Still, this solo outing displays Tink’s versatile talents, cutting lyricism, and measured sonic presentation. While you might know her for either her R&B or hip-hop escapades, you can’t deny her skill in either lane.

ATLANTA, GA – SEPTEMBER 30: Tink attends BET Hip Hop Awards 2022 on September 30, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/Filmmagic)

However, despite the track’s title, this is actually a very smooth and gorgeously produced cut. Sure, it only lasts two minutes and change, but its short sweetness means she punched in a lot of passion quickly. From the opening string melody, complemented with bright and soothing glockenspiel, the track continues its mellow trajectory. Moreover, the 27-year-old’s vocals soar prominently as the track’s main draw. Even if the instrumental backdrop is undoubtedly wondrous, it’s not enough to lessen the angst in Tink’s vocals. Still, it’s a compelling and dynamic mix of emotionally contrasting lyricism and instrumental prowess.

However, maybe you prefer a more even mix of the Chicago MC’s rapping and singing. For example, maybe you find this beat a little too slow. In that case, we’d recommend standout tracks from Pillow Talk like “Oooh Triflin” with Fabulous. Regardless, what did you think of Tink’s latest heart-ached but perseveringly beautiful new song, “Toxic”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments and check out the music video and notable lines down below. Also, if you haven’t heard the track yet, you can find the ballad on your preferred streaming service. As always, stay locked into HNHH for the best new releases each week in R&B and beyond.

Quotable Lyrics
Tryna play on my energy, all these hoes envy me,
Can’t show you what you meant to me, f**k s**t don’t get to me,
I’m a real b***h, not industry, still waiting on a b***h to finish me,
I was f***ing on the enemy, I should’ve known

Delishia J Wants To “Put You On” Her Fire New Single

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In past years, the month of January has been relatively quiet in terms of new music releases. In 2023, however, many are choosing to shake things up by releasing incredible singles, EPs, and albums to motivate their competitors for the coming months. Among the early arrivals is a track from Dallas’ Delishia J – “Put You On.”

It made its debut on Friday (January 27), ahead of her highly anticipated Monday Morning EP later this winter. In the lead single, our vocalist markedly paints a sonic picture of the ups and downs of love in various capacities.

Image provided to HNHH by artist

In a press release, Delishia specifically cites Kehlani’s Cloud 19 mixtape as one of her biggest inspirations. “Learning that she had written her own songs inspired me to step away from track and pursue music. Fast forward 6 years later and I’m finally releasing my first tap,” she excitedly explains.

Her upcoming EP has an official release date of February 17th. Its primary topic is reflection, the creator says. “Imagine it’s Monday and you’re coming off of a long romantic weekend and you’re reflecting on love and all its sensual moments,” she specifically set the scene.

Speaking on her lead single, “Put You On,” Delishia also notes, “If I put you on to my soul and we take it there you don have to worry about me doing that with anyone else.”

The beat boasts production by Ralph Tiller, who was previously working on Muni Long’s popular “Hrs & Hrs” debut.

Stream Delishia J’s debut HNHH single, “Put You On,” on Spotify or Apple Music below. Additionally, find more of our weekly R&B recommendations on our playlist update here.

Quotable Lyrics:

I’m not afraid put you on
We can free ride ’til the morn’
Pickin’ and choosin’ nobody else, love what is yours
Baby that’s written in the stars, I like it

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Daniel Caesar Preps For Upcoming Album With Groovy “Do You Like Me?” Single

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For Daniel Caesar, 2022 was a surprisingly quiet year musically. In the first few weeks, he made an appearance on FKA Twigs’ ethereal CAPRISONGS tape. After that, we didn’t hear from him again until April. In the spring, he teamed up with BADBADNOTGOOD for his emotional “Please Do Not Lean” single.

“This is an introduction to the sound and tone of the next chapter in my career,” he previously said of the track. Additionally, he teased that his third studio album was in the works, and joined Justin Bieber on stage at Coachella to perform their hit “Peaches” collaboration.

Daniel Caesar performs on the Coachella stage during the 2022 Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival on April 22, 2022 in Indio, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images for Coachella)

As January comes to an end, Caesar is finally ready to share more of his creations with the world. On Friday, the 27th, he delivered his “Do You Like Me?” single, along with the teaser for a music video that’s due out later.

For now, fans have been treated to a DSP release and lyric video, leaving many listeners with the words stuck in their heads all weekend long.

As Complex notes, the funky tune is dedicated to a special person in the singer’s life. “[It’s] a song about a woman I respect deeply,” Caesar said, later describing it as “90 degrees of a love triangle.”

The vocalist’s next project will be his first since 2019’s CASE STUDY 01. On that, he connected with several noteworthy artists, including John Mayer, Brandy, and Pharrell Williams.

Stream Daniel Caesar’s “Do You Like Me?” single on Spotify or Apple Music below. Afterward, tell us if you’re excited about the Canadian crooner’s forthcoming project in the comments.

Quotable Lyrics:

Are we wrong? I guess that depends
Will we end up together?
Will you have my kids? You better
I wanna be in love again

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