All The Best New R&B Music From This Week

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Sir Sinead Harnett Trevor Jackson R&B recap
Getty Image/Merle Cooper

Sometimes the best new R&B can be hard to find, but there are plenty of great rhythm-and-blues tunes to get into if you have the time to sift through the hundreds of newly released songs every week. So that R&B heads can focus on listening to what they really love in its true form, we’ll be offering a digest of the best new R&B songs that fans of the genre should hear every Friday.

Since the last update of this weekly R&B column, we’ve received plenty of music and news from the genre’s artists.

Justin Timberlake announced his sixth album Everything I Thought It Was, released its lead single “Selfish,” and revealed the dates for his The Forget Tomorrow World Tour. Lovers & Friends Festival announced its 2024 lineup with Backstreet Boys, Usher, and Janet Jackson as headliners and Halle Bailey announced a masterclass for The Recording Academy’s Grammy Week events. Elsewhere, T-Pain revealed that he almost had a song with Michael Jackson and Usher, but one person ruined it.

Here are some more releases on the new music front that you should check out:

SiR — “No Evil”

It has been over a year since SiR delivered a single, but the Inglewood native ended the drought with “No Evil.” The TDE crooner swaps his croons for a gritty and tough record that SiR says “is for the misunderstood.” It was paired with a video that SiR pays homage to D’Angel’s “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” visual.

Trevor Jackson — “James Dean”

Trevor Jackson went viral, for better or for worse, for his covers of popular but now he’s back with an original. He returns with “James Dean” which is the first release ahead of his upcoming EP and one that, according to a press release, “reflects on the journey from the country roads and cornfields of Indiana, serving as a badge symbolizing the challenges overcome to reach where I am now.”

Sinead Harnett — “Say Something”

Sinead Harnett is back with her first new song in a couple of years. “Say Something” arrives ahead of her upcoming album Boundaries and it’s a tender and dreamy record that captures one’s yearning desire for reciprocated love from her partner. “The weight of your absence is far more than gold,” she says. “Tell me I’m patient or tell me I’ve lost control / Why won’t you / Say something, say something to me.”

Emotional Oranges & Nonso Amadi — Blended

Emotional Oranges and Nonso Amadi first collaborated on the former’s “Not Worthy” from their Still Emo. That initial collaboration showcased a unique chemistry between the artists and one that they took advantage of to create their collab EP Blended. The project bares just four songs to its names, but it’s just enough proof for why Emotional Oranges and Nonso Amadi are great collaborators.

Sekou — “Crying”

Next month, UK R&B singer Sekou will hit the road with Renée Rapp and Towa Bird for the former’s Snow Hard Feelings Tour in Europe. In addition to that news and the 2023 release of his Out Of Mind, Sekou is also back with new music. He returns with “Crying,” a song he uses a canvas to paint the raw and emotional he holds following a tough break-up that left him “crying and driving, wildin’ and crying.”

Asha Imuno & Tempest — “Phonics” Feat. Westside Boogie

After closing 2023 with “Florida Water,” Moreno Valley, California singer Asha Imuno kicks off his 2024 with Tempest and Westside Boogie by his side. The trio connect to discuss their individual experiences with a partner and the magnetizing intimacy that they share and also struggle to break free from.

Blk Odyssy — “Want You”

There’s no slowing down for Blk Odyssy. After releasing Diamonds & Freaks last year, the singer quickly gets back to work in 2024 with “Want You.” On it, Odyssy fires off pleas for intimacy over thumping drums and guitar strings, both of which are the backdrop to his airy vocals.

Alicia Creti — “Self/Less”

On February 16, Montreal singer Alicia Creti will release her project Self/Less. Ahead of its arrival, she released the project’s title which strikes as a moving and eloquent ballad inspired from a conversation with her brother and dedicated to her decision to put herself first and and chase her dreams. It joins “Crazy,” Guilt Trip,” and “Oity Party” as Self/Less singles.

Breez Kennedy — “Who’s Been Your Mind”

Breez Kennedy’s run continues into 2024 with his new single. His first entry in the new year is a pleading record that captures the 17-year-old singer’s realization that his partner is moving on to someone else. He’s noticed the changes and desperately wants to get to the bottom of things so he can either fix things or close this chapter and move on.

Reggie Becton — “Bad M’fkr”

Reggie Becton brings his Sad Boy era into 2024 with the release of “Bad M’fkr.” He looks back at a relationship where he was done wrong by his partner, and despite all of that, he still craves more from there. “Can’t help but need it / Got me fiendin,'” he sings. “Now I’m speedin’ / Lost control / (I’m sleepin’ in the danger zone).”

Obai — Svnteen

Obai, an 18-year-old singer from Phoenix, steps out into the spotlight with his debut project Svnteen. Through nine songs, the young singer blends pop, R&B, and neo-soul to deliver stories about young love, his teenage life, and his experiences with family.

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



source https://uproxx.com/music/best-new-rb-songs-this-week-sir-trevor-jackson-sinead-harnett/

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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.