The Best New Hip-Hop This Week

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The Best New Hip-Hop This Week Anycia_Gucci_Mane_YG(1024X450)
Getty Image/Merle Cooper

The best new hip-hop this week includes albums, videos, and songs from Anycia, Gucci Mane, YG, and more.

It’s been a long time. We shouldn’t have left you. We took a little break last week, but now, we are BACK with some of the best hip-hop to grace our favorite streaming platforms for the past seven days — and maybe even a little longer. This week saw a smorgasbord of new releases, including:

Chance The Rapper’s kung-fu movie-inspired comeback with “Buried Alive“:

Coi Leray’s steamy workout in the video for “Can’t Come Back“:

Gucci Mane’s new track turning Diddy’s misfortunes into a punchline:

Saba And No ID’s ode to the hair journey in “Head.Rap“:

And YG’s first solo single in two years, “Knocka“:

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

Albums/EPs/Mixtapes

AG Club — Brodie World

AG Club

The rowdy Bay Area crew continues to carry the torch of similar raucous giant groups like Odd Future and Brockhampton with their latest freewheeling release. Unique production carries the laid-back, anything-goes raps, and it’s clear these guys are just having fun with it. Hangout rap at its finest.

Ahmad Anonimis — Mnt. Snug

Ahmad Anonimis

Tidal’s recommendation algo is getting a little too good at figuring out what I’m going to like on NMF. A cozy, stream-of-consciousness flow accompanied by vibey, unhurried beats will always give me a reason to stop and listen, and this Georgia native makes it worth the stream.

Anycia — Princess Pop That

Anycia

Another Georgia native, Anycia drops her debut project with a co-sign from one of her home state’s biggest contemporary stars, Latto. After the two rappers teamed up for “Back Outside,” Anycia serves up another 12 songs making use of her laconic delivery and unpretentious humor. Cash Cobain and Luh Tyler also guest.

Yung Bleu — Jeremy

Yung Bleu

The trend of artists using their government names as album titles continues. Bleu does what Bleu does best here, swerving from full-throated crooning to spacey rapped boasts over inescapable production.

Singles/Videos

Blimes — “Somebody To You”

While Blimes garnered the lion’s share of the attention for her music with her collabs with Gifted Gab, the former battle rapper has been on her own journey lately, expanding her sound (she sings!) and addressing new topical avenues like personal growth, mental health, and of course, finding love.

Foggieraw — “Stay Awhile” Feat. Ari Lennox

The social sensation looks to be kicking off his campaign for cultural ubiquity in earnest with his first single since last summer’s “Psalm 62” and “Ms. Johnson.” Tapping Dreamville’s soulful singer Ari Lennox for a smooth chorus, all of Foggie’s DMV charm is on display here.

Flyana Boss — “Skateboard”

The creative duo keeps up their unstoppable stream of new music with another metaphorical celebration of sexual intercourse. The way these two keep coming up with new analogies for getting busy is honestly impressive, and whenever they drop their full album, it’ll be fun to see what else they come up with.

Lola Brooke — “Shelter Baby”

Lifted from the deluxe edition of the Brooklyn rapper’s debut, Dennis Daughter, “Shelter Baby” reproduces Mobb Deep’s “Get Twisted” beat from its original sample (Thomas Dolby’s “She Blinded Me With Science”) to thug out with that surprising growl of hers.

Monaleo — “Ranchero”

The video for the Houston rapper’s latest may have a country Western theme in keeping with the revived yee-haw agenda sparked by Beyoncé’s new album, but the beat is just a straight-up block beater and her bruising bars are best yelled at the top of one’s lungs in a crowded club.

Tobi Lou — Young Bopalopolous

The Chicago rapper’s latest three-song EP is a solid collection of dreamy bangers. “Hitchhiker” is my favorite of the three, but you can check them all out in the Instagram post above.

Wynne — “Dirt (Poem)”

The Seattle wordsmith’s latest indie release takes a turn from her recent party-ready material to a weighty rumination on toxic love. Wynne’s growth as an artist has been impressive to witness, and her profile continues to rise in tandem.



source https://uproxx.com/music/the-best-new-hip-hop-this-week-anycia-gucci-mane-yg/

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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.