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

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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 Lana Del Rey go on a musical adventure and Janelle Monáe give some love to the music side of her empire. 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 Flash newsletters.

Lana Del Rey — “A&W”

We’re now less than a month away from Lana Del Rey’s new album, Did You Know That There’s A Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd Pearl Watch Me On Ring A Bell Psycho Lifeguard. She unleashed a seven-minute chunk of its last week with “A&W,” a sprawling, narrative tune that’s as adventurous musically as it is lyrically.

Janelle Monáe — “Float” Feat. Seun Kuti and Egypt 80

Monáe is fresh off a big weekend getting some cardio in at the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game. Before that, though, she dropped “Float,” an anticipated new single that features hints of reggae and Monáe reaching into her rap bag.

Latto — “Lottery” Feat. Lu Kala

It feels like it was just a matter of time before Latto came through with a song titled “Lottery.” She made the most of it, too, recruiting Lu Kala to help deliver a Dua Lipa-esque disco-pop banger.

Polo G — “No Time Wasted” Feat. Future

Polo G got an assist from Future on last week’s “No Time Wasted.” Uproxx’s Alex Gonzalez notes of the track, “Over a triumphant beat produced by Southside, Polo reminds us where he came from and that he still sees himself becoming even more monumental.”

Tiësto — “Renaissance (The White Lotus) (Tiësto Remix)”

The White Lotus switched up its distinctive theme music a bit for the second season, although that catchy vocal part remained intact. The same is true with Tiësto’s new remix of the tune, which turns the track into what should be a DJ set hit at festivals this summer.

Skrillex — “Ratata” Feat. Missy Elliott and Mr. Oizo

Skrillex has been a machine lately, releasing new songs at an impressive clip. That was all leading up to Quest For Fire, his first album in nine years that’s out now. Highlights include “Ratata,” a jittery two-minute number featuring Missy Elliott and Mr. Oizo.

Caroline Polachek — “Fly To You” Feat. Grimes and Dido

Instead of dropping on Friday like everybody else, she opted to release her new LP, Desire, I Want To Turn Into You, on Valentine’s Day. She mostly flies solo on the project, although she shared the love on “Fly To You,” which features Grimes and Dido.

Beabadoobee — “Glue Song”

Beabadoobee is enjoying some newfound happiness on last week’s single “Glue Song.” She explained of it, “I wrote a lot of this song while on tour across Australia and Asia in the back of cars and traveling. It’s a heartfelt song that means a lot to me…. A love song and the first one I’ve written in my new relationship.”

Don Toliver — “4 Me” Feat. Kali Uchis

Toliver had a busy week, dropping two new singles: “Leave The Club” and “4 Me.” Of the latter, Uproxx’s Aaron Williams says, “His latest single from the album, ‘4 Me,’ sticks closely to the [Lovesick] theme, hijacking an interpolation of Beenie Man’s 2000 Mya collaboration, ‘Girls Dem Sugar,’ to express his devotion to the song’s addressee.”

100 Gecs — “Hollywood Baby”

The famous Forrest Gump “box of chocolates” line could have easily been about 100 Gecs (timeline impossibility aside), because you really can’t predict what a new Gecs tune is going to sound like. On “Hollywood Baby,” the latest, they went in a guitar-driven direction that comes across as their warped-version of hooky ’00s pop-punk.

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-lana-del-rey-janelle-monae/

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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.