R&B/Hip-Hop Fresh Picks of the Week: Kendrick Lamar, Tyla, Big Sean & More
Check out the latest tracks from up-and-coming R&B/hip-hop acts such as Forrest Claudette, Josh X, and Bairi - they're a must-listen!
This past weekend had one major highlight – Kendrick Lamar's explosive verse on “Like That”. He took shots at Drake, J. Cole and even “The Big 3”. This song was part of Future and Metro Boomin's new album, We Don't Trust You, which had everyone talking. While Drake works on responding to Kendrick, there are other exciting releases and events happening in the world of R&B and hip-hop.
In the world of R&B music, Tyla released her first studio album, SiR returned with his own LP after a five-year break, and Bryson Tiller launched his self-titled album featuring the new song "Calypso." While hip-hop was mainly dominated by major artists like Kendrick, Drake, and Future, GloRilla managed to get some attention through a funny video of her appearing on CNN to talk about her trip to the White House. As the Grammy-nominated rapper said, "At the end of the day, the day has to finish!"
Newest Discovery: "Like That" by Future & Metro Boomin featuring Kendrick Lamar
Billboard's Fresh Picks is a feature that showcases the latest and most captivating tracks in R&B and hip-hop. From K. Dot's explosive lyrics to Tyla's steamy summer hit, Fresh Picks aims to showcase the best new sounds out there. Don't forget to peruse this week's Fresh Picks in the Spotify playlist provided below.
The rapper Kendrick Lamar started a big story in the rap world when he criticized J. Cole and Drake in his feature on Future and Metro Boomin's song "Like That." This came after Future had already taken shots at Drake. Kendrick directly responded to their song "First Person Shooter" that had reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 charts. He raps about not liking indirect criticism and adds more to the drama with his line about dropping his location. He also makes it clear that he doesn't need to be teamed up with J. Cole or Drake, referring to them as the "Big 3."
Kendrick Lamar is calling out Drake and making a comparison to Prince and Michael Jackson. He mentions Drake's album "For All The Dogs" and says that it will be forgotten while Prince's legacy will outlive Michael Jackson's. Kendrick is not holding back and uses harsh language to put down Drake. The two rappers have had a tense relationship since Kendrick's "Control" verse in 2013, and this diss should only add to the tension. Kendrick's hit song "Like That" is also expected to debut high on the charts next week. Fans of hip-hop are eagerly awaiting a response from Drake and J. Cole.
The song "Jump" by Tyla featuring Gunna and Skillibeng is the topic of this blog post.
Tyla's debut album has been highly anticipated by fans, and the journey to its release has been a memorable one. Her track record of catchy, alluring songs continues with "Jump," a standout track from her self-titled album. In collaboration with Gunna and Skillibeng, Tyla creates a unique sound by blending elements of Afropop, dancehall, and R&B. She sings about her confidence and success, with lyrics like "They never had a pretty girl from Joburg/ See me now, and that’s what they prefer/ I don’t touch no wheel ’cause I gotta chauffeur/ First class how I get ’round the world." Her flow is similar to Rihanna's rap-sung style. "Jump" is sure to dominate this summer and is definitely worth listening to.
Big Sean is back with a new release, but it seems history repeats itself with Kendrick Lamar once again stealing the spotlight with his hit song "Control". However, Sean's latest track "Precision" proves he is still a force to be reckoned with in the rap game. His flow is scintillating and effortlessly keeps up with his competition. With the bouncy production by FNZ, Sean attacks the beat with ambition and confidence, boasting about his highlights and calling for others to prove their worth. It's great to see Sean back in action and we can only hope he continues to maintain this same level of energy and intensity in his future projects.
SiR's first studio album in five years, called Heavy, is a very dark piece of work. The singer, who comes from Inglewood, talks about his struggles with addiction and how he has recommitted himself to love. He also talks about the things that almost destroyed him. On the final track of the album, called "Brighter," SiR sings about hope and faith. He believes that even though the start might be difficult, they will make it through. He also believes that even though things might be dark at first, nothing is more amazing than when the light starts shining through.
Forest Claudette is starting off their promotion for their forthcoming Jupiter EP with their new song "Gold." The song is a mix of sad lyrics, melancholic piano and string melodies, along with a powerful singing performance that ties everything together seamlessly. This track is an excellent addition to Forest's already impressive collection of introspective alternative R&B music. Forest shows their contemplative side by singing about the challenges they face as a modern person. They impart the idea that they are not a damsel in distress but are worried about losing their sense of purpose and feeling lost. Essentially, Forest takes soulful music and makes it more relevant to our times by talking about existential topics.
Bairi, the song titled "Come My Way"
Bairi is a singer who takes her inspiration from the Kingdom Hearts character Kairi. She may not be as well-known as some other singers, but her talent speaks for itself. Bairi is from Hershey, PA and her smooth, velvety vocals are showcased on her seductive song "Come My Way". She even sings to her love interest "I can show you paradise through my gate to heaven". Her captivating melodies are perfect for the dancefloor and it's clear that Bairi is a rising star. Her debut project, Baby Siren, will be released on April 22 and we can't wait to see what she has in store for us. Despite being introverted, Bairi's talent speaks volumes and she is here to stay.
Receive weekly summaries directly to your email.
