The Best New Hip-Hop This Week

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best new hip hop cole durk russ
Getty Image / Derrick Rossignol

The best new hip-hop this week includes albums, videos, and songs from J. Cole, Lil Durk, Russ, and more.

The talk of this week might have been Janelle Monae’s racy pre-album release antics, but hip-hop don’t stop when it comes to new music. Releases this week included Killer Mike’s twin videos for “Don’t Let The Devil” and “Motherless” and Baby Tate’s “Hey Mickey!” remix with Saweetie. Meanwhile, Moneybagg Yo announced his mixtape release date, while Diddy and Jermaine Dupri finally nailed down a date for their Verzuz battle.

Here is the best of hip-hop this week ending May 12, 2023.

Albums/EPs/Mixtapes

Deante’ Hitchcock — Once Upon A Time

deante hitchcock once upon a time
Deante

The Atlanta rapper burst onto the scene in 2020 with the stellar debut, Better. Since then, he’s kept busy, dropping the Every Day The 14th EP, writing on P-Valley, and practicing his pen with a string of fierce freestyles. His life has changed in a variety of ways, giving him plenty of material for his comeback.

JasonMartin FKA Problem — I Owe Myself

jasonmartin i owe myself
JasonMartin

Compton rapper Problem has gradually gotten more and more personal with his music, so a name change shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone (it’s also more SEO-friendly, which this writer certainly appreciates). That trend continues on I Owe Myself, his first release of the latest chapter in his life and career.

Russ — Chomp 2.5

russ chomp 2.5
Russ

Russ rewinds on his latest, tapping into the lyrical energy of his first Chomp EP after turning Chomp into a full-length release in 2021. The difference this time is the lack of guests, letting Russ take center stage on one of his own projects once again. After all, he often boasts that he’s self-made (to a point), so it’s important to celebrate the person (mostly) responsible for his success.

Singles/Videos

A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie — “MVP” Feat. G-Eazy

As the NBA Playoffs roll on, A Boogie contributes this motivational single to ESPN’s coverage, with some help from one of the Bay Area’s highest-profile stars (who is probably happy to have his voice driving the Golden State Warriors’ comeback against the Lakers).

Chase B — “Ring Ring” Feat. Quavo, Travis Scott, Don Toliver & Ty Dolla Sign

Three of rap’s most prominent melodic voices offer their assistance as DJ/producer Chase B launches his bid for solo stardom. Ty Dolla Sign brings the icing to the cake, running the anchor leg with a soulful bridge that finishes the moody track strong.

IDK — “What’s That?” Feat. Saucy Santana & Jucee Froot

Full disclosure: I’m a superfan of the Michael Jackson sample from De La Soul’s “Breakadawn.” That this song uses that beloved classic as a foundation is already an unfair advantage, but then IDK sets himself apart from the masses of his peers by sharing his platform with a pair of boundary-pushing performers that I’ve been championing for a while now. It’s a win in my book.

Lil Durk — “All My Life” Feat. J. Cole

After teasing the long-awaited track for some weeks, Durk and Cole’s collaboration doesn’t disappoint. If Durk wants to make the full swing to positive messaging, I say “f*ck the haters on Twitter.” Anyone who’d rather see you self immolate for their entertainment instead of using your platform to uplift your community is a dickhead and doesn’t deserve your creativity or passion.

Lil Tecca — “Need Me”

Before Luh Tyler, there was Lil Tecca, the previous owner of the “coolest teen in rap” title. He might have aged out of that illustrious stature, but the cool factor hasn’t dissipated at all. He actually does something interesting with his sample of Brandy and Monica’s “The Boy Is Mine” and sounds as comfortable as he ever has on the mic.

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



source https://uproxx.com/music/best-new-hip-hop-this-week-cole-durk-russ/

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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.