The Best New Hip-Hop This Week

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the best new hip-hop this week de la
Getty Image/Ralph Ordaz

The best new hip-hop this week includes albums, videos, and songs from Dreamville, Masego, Slowthai, and more.

After what seemed to be a slow couple of months to start the year, things really picked up last week with releases from the likes of ALLBLACK, Don Toliver, Key Glock, Logic, Payroll Giovanni, and more. That momentum continued this week as Young Nudy dropped Gumbo, Don Toliver added four new songs to Love Sick, and Nas, Joey Badass, J. Cole, and Nicki Minaj all released new songs. But the new music didn’t stop there; check out more below.

Here is the best of hip-hop this week ending March 3, 2023.

Albums/EPs/Mixtapes

Che Noir X Big Ghost Ltd. — Now Or Never

che noir x big ghost ltd now or never
Che Noir

I’ll always have a soft spot for this Buffalo-bred rapper, whose self-sufficient style has been a charming inspiration for the past few years. Her latest project is actually one of several produced by Big Ghost this week, but her unique point of view has always been the most interesting of the producer’s street-centric collaborators.

De La Soul — Stakes Is High

de la soul stakes is high
De La Soul

I know, I know! This isn’t “new” in the classic sense of the term. But the pioneering hip-hop trio’s catalog will certainly be new for thousands of fans who haven’t had access to it until now. And while the “best” of their releases varies depending on who you ask, there is perhaps no more influential work among them than Stakes Is High. So much of hip-hop owes a debt to this one album. If you only check out one this weekend, let this be it.

Dreamville — Creed III: The Soundtrack

creed 3 soundtrack
Dreamville

The trend of rap record labels taking over the production of heavily anticipated film soundtracks has generated some truly great collections, from the Black Panther soundtrack helmed by Top Dawg Entertainment to the 88rising-led soundtrack for Shang-Chi. Now, J. Cole’s squad gets in on the action, taking the baton from Mike Will Made-It (who produced the Creed II album) and the results are typically strong.

Kenny Mason — 3

kenny mason 3
Kenny Mason

The West Atlanta rapper’s one-of-a-kind style continues to set him apart from many of his fellow ATLiens. Influenced as much by the music of alternative rock bands like My Chemical Romance and The Smashing Pumpkins as by Future and Outkast, he offers a unique blend of genres that mashes up grunge and hardcore hip-hop into an aggro-emo gumbo that makes Kenny the bridge between sections of that Hot Topic T-shirt wall.

Masego — Masego

masego masego
Masego

Coolly combining rap, soul, and jazz on his last projects, Masego returns from a multi-year break with a self-titled collection that is one of hip-hop’s most anticipated projects of this year.

Macklemore — Ben

macklemore ben
Macklemore

Say what you want about Macklemore, he’s always been a solid rapper and a really earnest follower of hip-hop. He may have made some public missteps, but he’s always taken ownership of them. That tradition continues on his latest, most personal album yet.

Slowthai — Ugly

slowthai ugly
Slowthai

More thrashy but emotionally vulnerable grime-punk from one of the UK’s most compelling voices.

Young Nudy — Gumbo

young nudy gumbo
Young Nudy

Speaking of gumbo… 21 Savage’s cousin makes another stunning comeback full of weird, off-kilter production and brusque, unapologetic street rhymes.

Singles/Videos

Big Boss Vette — “Pretty Girls Walk (Remix)” Feat. Coi Leray

St. Louis, stand up! Big Boss Vette has been slowly building up her audience with brash, braggartly raps and thumping production that has found a following in the “bad bitch” niche. Employing one of rap’s it-girls in Coi Leray should vastly accelerate the process.

Cousin Stizz — “The Fan”

The Massachusetts rapper taps Snapz, Dilip & Berg for a ghostly instrumental in the first single from his upcoming project Game Ain’t Based On Sympathy.

Finesse2Tymes — “How to Act”

The Memphis rapper drops a fun party anthem with a thematically consistent video depicting one hell of a house party.

Larry June & The Alchemist — “89 Earthquake”

More laid-back luxury from Good Job Larry, whose Frigidaire cold flow is perfectly complemented by a signature production from Alan The Chemist. Their collab project, The Great Escape, drops on March 31 — we can’t wait.

Maiya The Don — “Dusties”

Say what you want about the modern trend of carefree Black girl rap, but it’s hard for me not to enjoy rappers like Brooklyn’s Maiya The Don dismissing and discounting the “Dusties” in their lives while sampling the hits of my youth (in this case, 50 Cent and Lil Kim’s “Magic Stick”).

Mike Dimes — “Heavy Metal”

Mike Dimes has been getting more and more attention lately, and tracks like the rumbling “Heavy Metal” certainly show the San Antonio rapper is intent on making it worth fans’ while.

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



source https://uproxx.com/music/the-best-new-hip-hop-this-week-de-la-dreamville/

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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.