All The Best New Music From This Week That You Need To Hear

Keeping up with new music can be exhausting, even impossible. From the weekly album releases to standalone singles dropping on a daily basis, the amount of music is so vast it’s easy for something to slip through the cracks. Even following along with the Uproxx recommendations on a daily basis can be a lot to ask, so every Monday we’re offering up this rundown of the best new music this week.

This week saw PinkPantheress and Ice Spice link up and Yves Tumor start a new era. Yeah, it was a great week for new music. Check out the highlights below.

For more music recommendations, check out our Listen To This section, as well as our Indie Mixtape and Pop Life newsletters. Also find our Uproxx HQ Spotify playlist, which is updated weekly with the best new music, at the end of this post.

PinkPantheress and Ice Spice — “Boy’s A Liar Pt. 2”

PinkPantheress and Ice Spice are two of the most meteorically rising stars of the past few years, so it makes sense that they’d link up on something. They did last week on “Boy’s A Liar Pt. 2,” a new take on PinkPantheress’ tune that sees Ice’s laid-back style play well with the upbeat song.

GloRilla — “Internet Trolls”

Online haters are a real consideration for high-profile musicians these days, and GloRilla gave them a piece of her mind on “Internet Trolls.” She says on the track, “Sometimes, I think they be forgettin’ the internet a fairytale / Teach that n**** for the people, but in person, he a b*tch / They be gangster on the booth, but in them papers be a snitch.”

Caroline Polachek — “Blood And Butter”

Polachek unveiled the tracklist for her upcoming album Desire, I Want To Turn Into You last week, including a song featuring Grimes and Dido. Beyond that, though, Polachek is on her own, like on new single “Blood And Butter,” on which she continues testing boundaries with off-kilter percussion and even some bagpipes.

Skrillex and Nai Barghouti — “Xena”

Skrillex has been getting after it this year, with new releases seemingly every week. That includes last week, when he dropped the Nai Barghouti collaboration “Xena,” of which Uproxx’s Lexi Lane notes, “Barghouti’s sole vocals open the song before the fierce electronic beat is added as a layer — and then eventually gets an instrumental break to shine.

Unknown Mortal Orchestra — “Layla”

Unknown Mortal Orchestra is currently readying V, which will be their first album in about four-and-a-half years when it comes out next month. They announced the double-LP last week, when they also shared “Layla,” a breezy number that pulls influence from Hawaiian music.

Yves Tumor — “Echolalia”

Yves Tumor is approaching Fiona Apple territory with the title of his newly announced album, Praise A Lord Who Chews But Which Does Not Consume; (Or Simply, Hot Between Worlds). Uproxx’s Alex Gonzalez describes the new, more concisely titled single “Echolalia” as “a dreamy, psychedelic track on which he recalls an intoxicating love.”

Lil Keed — “Long Way To Go”

It’s been nearly a year since Lil Keed died at 24 years old in 2022. At the time, he was on the rise and working on a new album, and now, some posthumous material is making its way out into the world. “Long Way To Go” was shared last week, and in a statement, his mother said, “This song holds a special place in my heart and as you guys will see it will reflect on many aspects of Keed’s journey here on Earth.”

NLE Choppa — “Champions”

The mood in Memphis is sour right now following the death of Tyre Nichols, and Memphis native NLE Choppa is taking action, like when he led a recent peaceful protest. He also addressed the situation on “Champions,” on which he raps, “I hate to struggle but it make me harder / I made it far but I wanna go farther / This not for me / This for my son and my daughter / My family tree in that order.”

Dreamville, JID, and Lute — “Ma Boy”

It turns out that Dreamville will be bringing the Creed III soundtrack to life. That reveal was made last week and the label also shared the first look at the OST: JID and Lute’s “Ma Boy,” a lively number fit to serve as pre-fight hype music.

Karol G and Romeo Santos — “X Si Volvemos”

Karol G’s upcoming album Mañana Será Bonito is set to arrive soon, and last week, she held fans over with the Romeo Santos collaboration “X Si Volvemos.” Uproxx’s Alex Gonzalez notes that on the song, “the two have no regrets about parting ways, but with their unmatched sexual chemistry, they can’t resist coming back to each other.”

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.



source https://uproxx.com/music/best-new-music-this-week-ice-spice-skrillex/

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Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution

Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution and What Listeners Look For Hip hop is more than just a genre of music; it is a cultural movement that has deeply influenced the world for over four decades. Originating in the South Bronx during the 1970s, hip hop was birthed from the creative expression of marginalized communities. What started as a fusion of DJing, breakdancing, graffiti art and MCing (rapping) quickly became a global phenomenon. Over the years, hip hop has expanded its reach, influencing various aspects of society, from fashion and language to politics and social movements. But what exactly do listeners seek when they tune in to their favorite hip hop tracks? Let’s explore.

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music At its core, hip hop music is built on rhythm and lyricism. Early pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Run-D.M.C. laid the foundation for what we now recognize as hip hop. They mixed disco, funk, and soul beats with rhythmic rapping to create a unique sound. Through the 1980s and 1990s, iconic artists such as Tupac, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas, and Jay-Z further shaped the genre, adding deeper narratives that explored social issues, struggles, and triumphs.
In the 2000s, hip hop saw its golden age evolve into new sub-genres, from Southern hip hop (e.g., OutKast and Lil Wayne) to the rise of trap music (led by artists like Future, Gucci Mane, and Migos). Today, artists continue to experiment with hybrid sounds, blending trap with pop, rock, and electronic music, creating a more diverse landscape for the genre.

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music While the genre has evolved, the heart of hip hop music still beats with certain core elements that listeners continue to seek. Here’s what attracts audiences to hip hop music:

1. Authenticity

One of the most important qualities of hip hop is its authenticity. Listeners are drawn to artists who stay true to themselves, their roots, and their experiences. Whether an artist is rapping about overcoming hardship, life in the streets, or personal triumphs, their genuineness resonates with fans. Authenticity gives hip hop its raw edge, connecting the artist's voice with listeners on a deeply personal level.

2. Lyricism and Wordplay

Hip hop has always been a platform for storytelling, and the craft of lyricism is highly valued. Fans look for clever wordplay, metaphors, punchlines, and deep storytelling in their favorite tracks. Rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nas are revered for their intricate lyricism and ability to convey powerful messages through their words. A song with sharp bars, vivid imagery, and emotional depth can elevate a listener’s connection to the music.

3. Beat and Production Quality

The beat is often the first thing people notice in a hip hop song. A catchy, hard-hitting beat can make or break a track, and producers play an integral role in shaping the sound of hip hop music. Producers like Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Metro Boomin have become household names for their distinctive production styles. From boom-bap beats to trap drums, the instrumental elements are essential in drawing listeners into the rhythm and groove of the song.

4. Innovation and Evolution

Hip hop is known for its constant evolution. Fans of the genre are often on the lookout for artists who push boundaries and experiment with new sounds. This spirit of innovation keeps the genre fresh and exciting. From the rise of auto-tune with artists like T-Pain to the blend of electronic and rap seen with artists like Travis Scott, listeners are eager for new music that challenges the traditional limits of hip hop.

5. Vibe and Energy

Hip hop isn’t just about the lyrics or the beat—it’s also about the energy the music brings. Whether it’s a party anthem, an introspective track, or a political statement, the vibe and energy of a song play a crucial role in how it resonates with fans. Artists like Drake, Cardi B, and Lil Uzi Vert have mastered the art of creating tracks that make listeners feel a certain way, whether it’s hyped up, laid back, or reflective.

6. Relatability and Emotional Connection

Hip hop has always been an outlet for self-expression and commentary on life experiences. Because of this, listeners often gravitate toward songs that reflect their own lives, struggles, and aspirations. Whether it’s a song about the challenges of growing up in a tough environment, the celebration of personal success, or the experience of love and heartbreak, hip hop has the unique ability to connect emotionally with audiences. Fans often seek songs that speak to their individual journeys and provide comfort, validation, or empowerment.

The Global Reach of Hip Hop

What was once confined to the streets of New York City has now become a global cultural force. From Tokyo to Paris, hip hop has spread across continents, influencing artists and listeners worldwide. In recent years, artists from outside the U.S. have brought their own cultural influences to the genre, blending hip hop with local sounds, languages, and traditions. The genre’s global reach is a testament to its universal themes of struggle, self-expression, and empowerment.

Conclusion

Hip hop music is an ever-evolving cultural powerhouse that has grown from a localized subculture into a global sensation. The authenticity, lyricism, production quality, innovation, energy, and emotional depth are the main ingredients that attract listeners to hip hop. While the genre continues to change, its core values remain consistent—offering a space for self-expression, storytelling, and connection. As hip hop continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a major force in shaping the future of music. Whether you’re a fan of classic boom-bap or modern trap, hip hop’s diverse range offers something for everyone, proving that its cultural impact is here to stay.