July was nice while it lasted, but we only remain focused on what lies ahead on Hot Music Friday. We do, however, occasionally look back to make sure we haven’t left behind any music or artists who don’t get talked about enough anymore, which is the theme of this week’s list.
With a 50–50 balance between hip-hop and rock, this weekend’s picks are a blend of new and old, contemporary and veteran. Check it out!
Hot Music Friday – August 4, 2023
“Make Up Your Mind” – Cordae
It would be wrong to open Hot Music Friday with any other track but this buttery cut. Cordae has the unique ability to keep it hip-hop while also brining in elements of dance and funk, and we love him for that. Dig in!
“Realest” – Ez Mil & Eminem
Filipino-American rapper Ez Mil was recently signed to Eminem’s Shady Aftermath label, so it should come as no surprise that the two put out a song together. What might catch you off guard, though, is that the track features Em firing back at Melle Mel for criticizing the Detroit MC, meaning that Ez Mil is kickstarting his commercial run by playing a supporting role in a beef between two seasoned masters of the craft.
“Slide” – Lil Yachty
It’s been amazing to watch Lil Yachty move back and forth between traditional hip-hop and the psychedelic themes of his most recent album, Let’s Start Here. Turns out he got it both ways — the guy can rap and sing on command, but then you surround him with a band and that spark remains alive if not brighter.
“Hype Me Up” – Wiz Khalifa
We got you Wiz — after all, it would be a waste of Hot Music Friday if we didn’t hype up the Pittsburg MC. Mind you, we have good reason to, as well as any other time in the past that we’ve shouted out the 35-year-old spitter. Listen to “Hype Me Up” and you’ll see why we so effortlessly endorse the guy.
“Evicted”– Wilco
This is where we switch gears and what better way to help you ease into it than Chicago’s very own Wilco? Though they’ve been in the game since the 90s, their latest track sounds as fresh as ever and is guaranteed to add a glow to your weekend.
“Worship the Whip”– Be Your Own Pet
This is where things get a little heated, so don’t give up on us now. This quite literally belongs on our Hot Music Friday list in case the band’s name or the song title didn’t already give it away. It would be a shame if we gave away more because you simply can’t not listen to this.
One Man Band – Miles Kane
Anything Miles Kane touches turns to gold, be it the Last Shadow Puppets or the Rascals. Of course, he can just as easily carry the entire operation all on his own, which is why One Man Band is the perfect tile for his latest solo record.
Sunset 666 (Live at the Hollywood Palladium) – The Jesus & Mary Chain
The Jesus & Mary Chain are one of those bands that are great on record but even greater in the flesh. Few things in life compare to watching them live, so the decision to release a live album by them makes far too much sense. We would like to close out Hot Music Friday by demanding a raise for whoever came up with the idea of this live album.
