Hip Hop and Rap

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The best new hip-hop this week includes albums, videos, and songs from Ice Spice, Lil Nas X, Megan Thee Stallion, and more.

What. A. Week. And while the girlies are certainly fighting — more on that in a minute — we can’t overlook just how many high-level releases came out in the past 24 hours. They include:

Ice Spice kicking off her album rollout with “Think U The Sh*t (Fart).” Goofy title aside, it’s a perfect illustration of how fun Ice Spice has been since “Munch” blew up.




Getty Image/Merle Cooper

The best new hip-hop this week includes albums, videos, and songs from Ice Spice, Lil Nas X, Megan Thee Stallion, and more.

What. A. Week. And while the girlies are certainly fighting — more on that in a minute — we can’t overlook just how many high-level releases came out in the past 24 hours. They include:

Ice Spice kicking off her album rollout with “Think U The Sh*t (Fart).” Goofy title aside, it’s a perfect illustration of how fun Ice Spice has been since “Munch” blew up.

Lil Nas X wondering “Where Do We Go Now?” as he prepares to release his documentary Long Live Montero.

And Megan Thee Stallion whacking a whole bunch of people who pissed her off with “Hiss.”

Other notable new releases include Flyana Boss, Russ, and Tierra Whack all returning to kick off their 2024 campaigns. 

Here is the best of hip-hop this week ending January 26, 2024.

Albums/EPs/Mixtapes

Benny The Butcher — Everybody Can’t Go

benny the butcher everybody can't go
Benny The Butcher

The Butcher is here! Benny’s first full-length since 2020’s Burden Of Proof touches on a familiar theme in hip-hop: That of the believer faced with skeptics. Fortunately, he makes some pretty convincing arguments for potential investors with the help of Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg, and more of hip-hop’s top stars.

Che Noir — The Color Chocolate Vol. 1

che noir the color chocolate vol 1
Che Noir

At only four tracks, Che Noir’s latest keeps ’em wanting more, but aptly demonstrates her prowess both on the mic and behind the boards. 

Kevin Gates — The Ceremony

kevin gates the ceremony
Kevin Gates

Remember when I called Fredo Bang one of the top practitioners of pain rap of the past decade? Well, the guy who wrote the book is back with 17 solid songs touching on trauma and the resilience to overcome it. The only two features are B.G. and Sexyy Red, making it one hell of a showcase for Gates. 

Lyrical Lemonade — All Is Yellow

lyrical lemonade all is yellow
Lyrical Lemonade

I can just hear all you old heads groaning right now. That’s fine, don’t give Lyrical Lemonade’s latest compilation a chance. You’ll only miss out on a showcase of some of hip-hop’s best and brightest rising stars (BabyTron, Latto, Snot, Teezo Touchdown), the ones your kids and their friends will be blasting for the next several years. You may as well get a jump on it, and learn to love it in the mean time. Plus Jack Harlow and Dave’s “Stop Giving Me Advice” is on there too.

Masta Ace & Marco Polo — Richmond Polo

masta ace marco polo richmond polo
Masta Ace & Marco Polo

The rap pioneer reunites with the MPC master for another set of tough lyrics over neck-breaking beats. 

Ocean X KungFu — WGFU

ocean kungfu wgfu
Ocean X KungFu

I’m going to admit to having never heard of these two until today. An Atlanta rap duo in the vein of a grittier City Girls, their latest appeared in the suggested new albums section of Tidal today, and I’m glad I pressed play. It’s familiar stuff, but it’s entertaining as hell. 

Singles/Videos

Big Jade — “Sanchi P’s Maybach Freestyle”

The Texas upstart continues to show off her lyrical dexterity with a hard-nosed take on Benny The Butcher’s J. Cole collaboration. 

Chief Keef & Lil Yachty — “Say Ya Grace”

And just like that, Lil Yachty (sorta) redeems himself for that disaster of a collab last week. He should stick to this class of collaborators for the foreseeable future.

Courtney Bell — “Westside” Feat. Royce Da 5’9

Detroit isn’t just off-kilter beats and unhinged punchlines. Courtney Bell (who I previously profiled) came back this week with another display of hard-eyed, cold-hearted battle rap. 

Erick The Architect — “Instincts” Feat. Westside Boogie

The Flatbush Zombie gets personal on his latest single and picks the perfect partner in the equally emotive Westside Boogie. 

Heems — “Accent”

This ain’t “Combination Pizza Hut & Taco Bell.” The Queens rapper makes a triumphant return to the frontiers of underground, rhyme-forward rap with a newfound focus and gritty determination to challenge the status quo, the mainstream, and your preconceptions. 

21 Lil Harold — “Sundown” Feat. JID

While 21 Savage has (rightly) earned plenty of attention and adulation recently, his young protege proves to be just as deserving early on… and in a true case of rap parallelism, attaches J. Cole’s mentee JID to a track in the same vein as “A Lot.” 

Skepta — “Gas Me Up”

The grime stalwart returns for his first new solo single in a few years, and in true signature Skepta fashion, he brings a whole new sound. If we can expect more of this kind of innovation on Knife And Fork, the anticipation for the album is sure to go up. 

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




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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.