dopeness is what i like the most

Some artists are adept at creating music that blends genres, the resulting product sounding unique in its own right. Others, like Abiyah and Ceschi , transcend past the mere blending of styles to offer up sonic manifestations that manage to  defy any sort of genre all together. Despite countless journalistic attempts to compartmentalize via labels, the music stands on its own foundation, blasting through the speakers free of any label or definitive denomination. This genre-less creative approach is strikingly evident with the Cincinnati-based artist's "Champion Plaque", a new single featuring Ceschi that was first imagined in 2015. The free-flowing delivery of vivid, picturesque storytelling from both artists acknowledges the saturation of inauthentic people permeating our daily lives. Abundant in subject matter that is relatable while also forcing listeners to take an uncomfortable look in the mirror, "Champion Plaque" is a call to action, tearing away at...

Can't sit here and act like I wasn't caught all the way off guard when I hit play on "That Way", the latest drop from Seattle's Gifted Gab . While I was expecting bars , Gab came through with some wildly smooth R&B crooning, capturing an entire vibe over the course of the  Cause and Effect  cut. But, man, despite what I was anticipating, this one slaps in the most sensual, seductive way. Cradled in the light, jazzy instrumentation that comes courtesy of Antwon Vinson , Gab fills "That Way" with the freshest of vocals. Throughout the record, her thoughts dance with unrequited love before finding solace in her own self-worth. Anybody who's followed Gab over the course of her career already knows she's never had time to play games, the fierce lyricist proudly rocking through her work with omnipresent internal strength. With "That Way", Gab displays some vulnerability while still remaining true to the raw essence of who she is. ...

With a new EP on the horizon, South Carolina-based artist Nick Grant comes through with a smooth, flirtatious ode to a potential love interest(s). "Pink Starburst" might serve you well if you're looking to cuff during these cold winter months, the Bhess-featured record containing a pristine balance of lyrical delivery and fresh vocals. It's slightly braggadocious while remaining pure in it's essence, resulting in a final product that's as brash and assured as it is debonair. The production, which comes courtesy of Dominic Gordon, is mellow and charming - at times it feels as though each sound is left floating as the next creeps in. As Gordon's instrumentation couples with the vocals, "Pink Starburst" becomes a fine example of modern R&B. Visually, viewers witness Grant posted with a DeLorean, roadside in the middle of nowhere and kicking it with his Queen in an aesthetically pleasing pink room. With three different women featured over ...

You gotta be wary of the people who pop up  after your glow-up, especially if they're acting like they've been rocking with you for the long haul. Houston-based Aaron May chronicles this sentiment throughout "I'm Good Luv, Enjoy", an anthem for anyone looking to curve the people in their life chasing the shine. Over the course of the new record, Aaron pulls no punches as he displays the fine art of ducking and dodging the women attracted to his buzz. It's a coolheaded, poised bop that features grutty, clashing, self-produced instrumentation. The production syncs nicely with the energy of May's delivery and content, the track serving as a sonic "left on read", abundant in an imperious confidence that struts upon the fine line separating ego and self-love. "I'm Good Luv, Enjoy" is available now on all major streaming platforms. Press play below.  

After dropping off a visual last week, Grieves is back with yet another fresh cut in the form of "Beethoven". Grieves floats over the smooth, atmospheric production, lacing "Beethoven" with confident delivery as he demonstrates a growing sense of self-awareness. And this is saying something, as longtime listeners will recognize the already introspective nature of his extensive catalogue of music. With "Beethoven", the Seattle-based wordsmith plants his focus firmly on his own vision and craft, silencing and rising above the naysayers casting doubt on the man and his music. The record is littered with layered wordplay and substance, once again putting on display the depth of talent that exists within Grieves and the art he creates. Hopefully this string of new music is a sign that we'll be on the receiving end of a project from the Rhymesayers-representative this year, his first since the release of  Running Wild in 2017.  "Beethoven...

With a freshly released EP out now and the ink still drying on his deal with Epic Records, Travis Thompson is more than ready to show the world exactly why he's earned the growing buzz that has encapsulated his world today. Whether you've been following the young artist leading up to this point or you're new to his music today, "Safe" and the EP it finds life on leave little doubt that nothing has been handed to Thompson. With "Safe", viewers are opened to bits and pieces - both large and small - of the Seattle-based spitter's story, putting on full display the work he's put in to reaching his current level of success. "Safe" begins with Travis smoothly flowing through an honest, revealing and reflective verse. I caught him live last year and his on-stage energy was through the roof, so it's nice to see the multidimensional vastness of his music shine so prominently throughout "Safe". Dude can get a crowd going with h...

"Leaf Wraps" serves as my introduction to Louisville, KY-based The Homies and I'm certainly pleased to make their musical acquaintance. Stepping up with a uniquely eccentric energy and personality all their own, the collective - which runs five deep (2forwOyNE, Quiiso, Shloob, Ronnie Lucciano and Ace Pro) - covers all bases, handling their production and engineering in-house while also lacing those self-produced bops with smoothly delivered, sharp-witted wordplay. With an assist from their Private Garden compadre, Jack Harlow, "Leaf Wraps" is a vibe-heavy, wavy and fun record that does a fine job showcasing the eclectic mix of style and energy The Homies bring to the table. It's quite evident from the Brian Campbell-directed visual they're all having fun together, showcased throughout the balanced shots of parties, yoga and simply wylin' out. And everything about "Leaf Wraps", from the music to the video, feels completely natural - The...

Man, if you're feeling froggy, here's some silky smooth R&B vibes to alley-oop into your crush's DMs. I mean, if you're planning to shoot your shot, "Everlasting" brings forth some next level energy to do it with. Coming through your speakers courtesy of California-based Albert Posis, "Everlasting" is a suave bop of a record that features cool, calm and collected vocals that glide over the intricate instrumentation. This one is the definition of  cool , as the energy behind Posis' content and delivery stand prominently in the foreground while the soft-spoken sonic backdrop provides the foundation upon which the Filipino-American artist does his thing. Daps and pounds have to be given to Paul Prudente and Nick Pacoli, who bless "Everlasting" with the lovely guitar and keys. The simple visual, directed by Charles Guinto, gives the music plenty of room to breath, showcasing the three artists having fun while they lay down the tr...

We got our first taste of Noé last month with the release of " Pity Party " and now the alluring songstress is back with another self-depreciating and bluntly tongue-in-cheek bop to keep listeners full until her debut project drops sometime this year. Balancing the twisted humor with relatable subject matter results in a product that never feels cliche or forced - rather, listeners get a sense Noé is able to use her music to reflect on the ways her life choices have impacted her personal life. By taking lighthearted shots at herself, Noé is stepping deeper into her self-awareness and state of mindfulness. Throughout "Puzzles", Noé teasingly instructs a suitor in the best techniques to capture and keep her attention, namely by not giving her "proper" attention or affection. The Paris-raised and LA-based artist would rather one plays games with her, as opposed to offering his heart on a silver platter. In other words, make the "relationship" a...

nobigdyl. comes through with the official visual treatment for his first drop since the release of  SOLAR   last summer, gathering the troops for a fun, celebratory experience throughout "over here". Backed by smooth, soulful instrumentation that comes courtesy of Tee-Wyla, the track sounds futuristic while simultaneously paying homage to the hip-hop that laid the foundation for today's artists to thrive. nobigdyl. laces the record with high-spirited, upbeat and anthemic lyricism, encapsulating "over here" with uplifting and positive energy while he confidently delivers his sharp prose. Directed by Nate Rose, nobigdyl.'s "over here" visual experience dances hand-in-hand with the Indie Tribe-representative's content, highlighting the ability of coming together to elevate the vibes. Between the dancing, the food and the light humor littered throughout the video, "over here" leaves viewers with smiling faces, in the mood to celebrat...

It's only been about a month that I've been listening to - and following - the edutainment that is Tobe Nwigwe and his team. Regardless, in that short span of time, the weekly release has become my most anticipated listening experience. I look forward to hearing and seeing how Tobe's content, both sonic and visual, manifests every Sunday - from the depth of his lyrics and Nell's captivating production to the flow of the choreography and the aesthetically striking wardrobe, the weekly dose of #getTWISTEDsundays never fails to capture my attention and leave my mind racing with thoughts and reflections. "Caged Birds" kicks off with clips from an older interview, the substance of which sets the tone for the subject matter addressed throughout Nwigwe's prose. The same interview is featured intermittently over the course of this week's video, meshing with Tobe's lyrics to help map out the intentions and purpose that drive his music. It's powerf...

With  Ride Waves set to drop on April 5th, and a nationwide tour kicking off in March, GRiZ returns with our next taste of what's to come upon release of his forthcoming album. The 4th single off the new tape features the Detroit-bred artist linking with Matisyahu to cook up a meaningful - yet still funky, bright and uplifting - record that finds its roots in hope and change. Brought to life following the Parkland school shooting last year, GRiZ and Matisyahu pieced together "A New Day" to spark the necessary dialogue while also helping people move from a place of despair and enter a state of hopefulness. We can't sit in our darkness forever and a song that finds a pristine balance of deep message and fun energy helps to bring people into the light. After all, it's only light that can drown out the darkness. The new drop is highlighted by the unique juxtaposition of sound brought forth by GRiZ and Matisyahu, their varied styles coming together to result i...

Doesn't matter if it's nighttime and there's snow falling from the sky right now, the latest from Great Dane will have you rolling around in a sleeveless shirt, shades on your face, with the windows down and the music blasting from the speakers. Point blank, it'd be an understatement to say "Drop Top" is a vibe - this one will have you feeling yourself, drippin' with the sauce something like Ari on "7 Rings". The genre-defying Great Dane may have released an enigmatic collection of music last year in the form of  Gamma Ray , but he's knocking down the door that is 2019 by doing what he does best - showcasing just how ever-evolving and eclectic his style truly is. Each release is a new page in the diary of Great Dane, finding a unique way of revealing bits and pieces of the multifarious headspace existing within the LA-based artist. "Drop Top" will leave you wanting to squad up and commit random acts of delinquency, before ma...

Hayes popped up in December with a uniquely seductive twist on a classic Christmas tune and I've been looking forward to hearing more from the fresh songstress ever since. Now, as the days continue to fly by in 2019, Haley Rae is preparing to drop her debut EP in March and she's liberated the Grant Evans-produced "Tidalwave" while simultaneously teasing the release of her next single. Floating upon the vibrant instrumentation that comes courtesy of Evans, Hayes fills the new record with passionate vocals that emanate from the depths of her being. Just like the flowing ocean, Hayes' crooning rises high before crashing down, sending sonic ripples of emotion throughout the song. It's a beautiful ride for the listener to experience, combining a well-balanced blend of airy and spirited delivery with wavy, high-energy production. "Tidalwave" is available now on all major streaming platforms. Preview the track below.  

How's my guy Zhero going to cook up such a fun, captivating  sad song? Felt like an oxymoron the whole time I listened 'cause I couldn't wipe the smile off my face. Between Zhero's top-shelf songwriting, coupled with his pristine delivery, and Matthew Cyr's instrumentation, everything about "Another Sad Song" fills me with happiness - these are some slept on artists right here, and I love watching the work they continue to put in to their music. "Another Sad Song" is a vibey, atmospheric anthem highlighted by Zhero's poignant, emotive crooning. It's a nice contrast to the Valentine's Day energy that has been floating around, the timing of the new drop certainly no coincidence. In addition to the audio, Zhero and Cyr put together an accompanying visual experience that you can check out below. Press play on "Another Sad Song".   another sad song for you pic.twitter.com/Tft0X5bb2O — ZHERO (@zheroisdead) Februa...

Mans is really getting better with each release and it warms my heart to see him continue to step into his own as his sound and style evolves. Honestly, I think what Ian Matthew is doing lately holds a special place in my heart because I remember - not all that long ago - when his music did nothing for me. It felt generic and, at the risk of being too blunt, as if it was trapped in a gimmick. Now though? The CT-based artist has stepped out of the status-quo "hip-hop" box and stepped up with a sonic experience that blends hip-hop, pop, rock and more. "The Storm" is his latest offering and, once again, Ian appears to be dipping his feet deeper into the pop-friendly arena. Some may knock this approach, but when you're knocking the records out of the park like this, I say let the haters keep flapping their gums. Not everything has to be a layered exercise in lyrical depth - this joint is a bop, one that could easily find placement on your favorite radio statio...

Sometimes in life, even if things are going well enough to leave you feeling comfortable, it's important to take the necessary steps and risks in order to give oneself the room to fly. You might lose a few feathers on the journey, but a caged bird is never free. With "I'll Be Better", Grieves paints a vivid story of letting go and moving on in order to open the doors for what's next. As only he can, the Rhymesayers artist takes listeners on a journey paved with his honest, relatable and mature storytelling. Rather than holding a grudge or falling back on petty tropes of failed relationships, Grieves keeps it all the way stoic and levelheaded, dancing with acceptance and understanding - there's no ill will, simply an individual recognizing it's time to move on from an unhealthy connection. Directed by Justin Frick, "I'll Be Better" is a simple, almost pop art-infused visual experience that features Grieves on his way to - and then isol...

Trevor Hall liberated the breathtaking " MOON / SUN " visual experience last October and we return to Hall's  The   Fruitful Darkness single with a new live performance captured in Charleston, South Carolina. It's always magic in the air when Trevor and friends take the stage, the room filling with the loving energy that encapsulates the music. Filmed by the Sugarshack family, Trevor is joined by Will Evans , turning the already beautiful record into a lovely duet. While Trevor prepares to set out on a 23-city tour in further support of  The Fruitful Darkness , his first independently released album, he'll also be working with Sugarshack to bring to life a live concert film and mini-documentary showcasing Hall's travels related to the project. The Fruitful Darkness  is available now . For tickets and information on the upcoming tour, head here .  Enjoy the live performance of "MOON / SUN" below.  

I still find myself returning to  Prey for the Poor on a fairly regular basis but, man, to say I'm thrilled to see new music from Add-2 for the first time in over 4 years would be an understatement. And I'd be content simply having this new joint to vibe to, but to know "Git Yo Hand Out My Pocket" is the first drop from an upcoming project is the icing on the cake. Stepping back into the booth like he never left, the Chi-Town emcee proceeds to spaz over the celebratory, choir-infused production that comes courtesy of Sirplus. It's wordplay for days as Add-2 passionately delivers his rapidly fired bars, the depth of which will only truly be grasped after at least a few listens. Press play on "Git Yo Hand Out My Pocket" below.  

In between releasing their personal projects and label compilation tapes, GQ and Ian Kelly take a few minutes to put on for their ODS family. Over the course of five visuals, released throughout the past week, GQ kicks a couple smooth a cappellas before the Jamla-representatives take turns lacing some popular industry instrumentals with their always on-point lyricism. Both Oakland-raised emcees come with top-shelf bars, delivering intricate, layered wordplay as they rock on tracks originally blessed by the likes of Kendrick, Lil Kim, Drake and Cole. Thanks to the short length of each visual, you'll have no trouble running these freestyles back a few times in order to catch each quip and double entendre. Hopefully we get more of these from the One Day Soon crew. In the meantime, press play on each of the five freestyles below.  

After dropping the joint last month, Bklyn Lo returns with the official " Stuck In My Ways " visual treatment. It's a discourse on lyricism from the time you hit play, as the Hartford-based artist flips Meek's record and effectively makes it his own. And, man, let's all take a moment to really appreciate what Detelj is bringing to the table on the visual end of things. It's only been a couple of years since he picked up the camera for the first time but, in a short period of time, he's truly stepped into his own power both behind the lens and in regards to the slick edits. This is a sharp video that does a nice job capturing the underlying essence of Bklyn's content. Press play on "Stuck In My Ways (LoMix)" below.  

Less than a month after releasing his last album, Raz Simone has already announced his next project is set for liberation on February 14th. And if  Still Love was Simone veering towards R&B vibes, then the first release off  More Than Sex is a headfirst dive into the soulful, passionate crooning style. With "Make Love", Raz reunites on wax with Jay Park to deliver an impassioned, poetic commentary on the often times ignored differentiation between fucking and making love. As he states on the new record, any two bodies can fuck - but it takes something different, a real connection, to come together and make love . Over the course of the  More Than Sex  single, Simone and Jay Park detail the type of emotional bond that's actually worth missin' joogs for. It goes beyond the purely physical act of sex/sexual release, existing in the invisible realm of energetic waves that bring two people together in the divine act - physical, emotional, spiritual ...

Ever since the release of " If You Don't Call ", Sol has really been leveling up with each new visual. And the saga continues with his Noah Porter-directed "These Songs", our first taste of the forthcoming  Soon Enough . Featuring a pristine balance of reality, animation and sharp edits, today's drop takes viewers on a wild ride with Sol and his people - from bus rides and studio sessions to acid trips and karaoke nights. Over the course of "These Songs", Sol explains where his music finds its roots and the everyday acts that result in the manifestation of his sonic vibes. Say what you want about the art he creates, but nobody can deny that Sol is always Sol. Through his music, listeners have been able to witness his growth and evolution - both personally and artistically - but there has never been a gimmick. We get the good energy, positive vibes and authenticity that encompass the heart and mind of the man behind the music. And this is why ...

After releasing the record last month, Samm Henshaw returns with the official visual treatment for his EarthGang-assisted " Church ". Presented in gospel-infused packaging, the track balances the fun, lively production with the layered depth of Henshaw's crooning and EarthGang's verses. Listeners, religious or not, will relate to the tug-of-war that exists between discovering Faith for oneself with the at time tedious nature of waking up to attend church on a regular basis. It's not  where you discover your Higher Power that's important. It's the act of taking the journey inwards to figure out what's right for you that matters in the end. The accompanying visual captures the positive energy of the song, featuring some humorous scenes alongside the young man's process of getting to church with his mother. All in all, "Church" is an uplifting and thought-provoking experience highlighting the uniquely artistic mind of the UK-based He...

It may have dropped at the tail end of 2018, but Locksmith's  ALI  was unquestionably - bar for bar - one of the year's top releases. And, really, that should come as no surprise to anyone who's pressed play on a Lock record before. As his catalogue continues to grow, the Richmond-bred emcee only gets better with time - a scary thought considering how good his earliest of work was. Locksmith returns to  ALI today for his latest visual release, linking with Jarren Benton for the rightfully confident and abrasive "Ghost". Over the course of the four-and-a-half minute visual, Lock attacks the Kato On The Track and Black Cloud-produced instrumentation with three fiery verses that'll leave your head spinning. Focused on staying true to himself, "Ghost" exemplifies the raw authenticity that is Locksmith - it's clear he's going to eat, but it'll always be on his terms. With people paying attention now more than ever, Lock makes it clear ...

The beautifully morbid irony of Ceschi Ramos manifesting an engaging pop song will be lost on some. For those who have been listening closely to the sonic landscape of Ceschi over the years, it will come as no surprise he - alongside Factor Chandelier - was able to once more destroy any attempts at placing a singular label on his musical style and sound. I've often heard Ceschi described as "folk rap", which is certainly applicable but far from all-encompassing. As he continues to step personally into a growing awareness of self and purpose, it would only make sense that his music will be following suit - shifting, evolving and morphing into the most appropriate means of communicating his desired message. "The Gospel", which originally found life on Factor's  Wisdom Teeth album, has resurfaced as the second release off Ceschi's forthcoming  Sad, Fat Luck . Hidden in plain sight beneath the saccharine packaging of the pop song is Ceschi's trag...

The other day I was listening to a sermon from Eric Thomas - something I've been doing regularly for the last year - and was pleased to hear mention of Tobe Nwigwe. It felt like a divine intersection; a crossroads for me personally where two areas of my life merged together into one. The moment was special and I share only because it left me feeling as though I'm on the right track. So, if you're ever looking for a little motivation, check out this dude ET . Back to the subject at hand: another # getTWISTEDsundays from Tobe Nwigwe and the team that's constantly putting in the necessary work to make the dream work. There are a lot of gifted artists out there who use their voice to spread meaningful messages, filling their music with lessons and various forms of good intentions. But, man, Tobe has a way to masterfully balance the art of entertainment with the art of education. It's not hard to become enmeshed in his lyrics, the vast depth of which bring the en...

Somber City  just became my favorite 13 minutes of music I've experienced this week and I feel confident in saying you will love it as much as I do. The entirely self-produced, 4-track EP is highlighted by the heavy dosage of authentic emotion radiating from Gobbo's raw, passionate delivery. The purity of his prose couples with the boundless vibes brought forth thanks to his production, resulting in a short but noticeably powerful listening experience.  Somber City is a testament to the ability of a song or project to wrap an abundance of substance and depth in a short, finely tuned and well-calculated effort - what Gobbo does in less than 15 minutes, quite a few would struggle to do with three or four times as many tracks. Throughout the EP, Gobbo takes listeners on a ride through their own psyche, using his personal experiences as the guide that illuminates the path we journey upon. We're calmed and comforted by the reflective, uplifting and hopeful "Spring...

As he continues to prosper in New York, AceMo shows gratitude to his supporters by dropping off an EP containing a variety of sounds he cooked up between 2016-2018. The 7-track  All My Life is a wild journey into a vast spectrum of vibes, showcasing the multifaceted musical stylings of the CT-bred artist. Dedicated to the good people across the globe who have supported my music career over these years. This music wouldn't exist without your energy. These tracks are to dance to, party to, walk to, eat to.. whatever your heart desires.. as long as they're enjoyed with a smile on your face. With the majority of the songs featured on the EP clocking in at over 7 minutes,  All My Life will leave listeners fading in and out of different realities as the music rises, falls and bounces fervently between alternate energies. Over the course of the project, one could hit the dance floor just as easily as they could find a state of peaceful meditation. It's a beautiful, spell...

As he begins another trip around the sun, CrissB.amazing  once again celebrates his Born Day by gifting a new loosie to all his listeners. Featuring soft-spoken production from Soul Asia, Bawrs fills the smooth, up-tempo instrumentation with reflective, self-aware and illuminated wordplay. Calling in the energy of Groundhog's Day, CrissB displays his confidence and ongoing growth - artistically, personally and spiritually - as he avoids the shadows and floats over "Punxsutawney Wolfie" with positive energy and ultralight beams manifested as streams of consciousness. Wish the AQMNI -representative a happy birthday and press play below.  

If I were a betting man, I'd go all in on Noé being a household name sooner rather than later. In the meantime, I'll be here urging you all to hop on her bandwagon before it's the "in" thing to do. Weaving through and between different genres all at once, Noé has a sound and style that simply cannot be boxed in. With hints of pop, alternative, R&B and electronic elements, the music is highlighted by the pure, soulful sonic offering of her vocal delivery. Noé is set to release her debut EP later this year and the Paris-born artist begins the  i by noé roll-out with the enchantingly raw and vulnerable ballad that is "Pity Party". Backed by airy production featuring synthed-out percussion, Noé fills the new single with honest, joyfully morbid and self-depreciating prose. Throughout "Pity Party", listeners are opened up to the tragic cycle of feeling overly sorry for oneself while continuing to enter relationships with other individuals w...