Happy Black History Month! We’re starting the month off fresh with some brand new music from some of our most beloved Black artists including JT, Usher, TiaCorine, Benny The Butcher and so many more. In case you missed last Friday’s drop, check it out here before we get into our new list for this week’s HMF.
The black community has undeniably had a profound and influential impact on the world of music. Their contributions have shaped and revolutionized various genres, from jazz and blues to hip-hop and R&B. The black community’s artistic expressions have not only enriched the musical landscape but have also played a pivotal role in setting trends and shaping popular culture. Their unique rhythms, soulful melodies, and powerful storytelling have captivated audiences worldwide, transcending boundaries and inspiring countless artists across generations. The black community’s influence in music is not just significant; it is a force that continues to drive innovation and set the stage for the next big thing in the ever-evolving world of music.
Credit to Oladimeji Oduns
Hot Music Friday: Black History Month Edition
Sideways- JT
JaTavia is in her Jackie-O era and we’re here for it. JT dropped this single at the start of Black History Month with her other track No Bars which has gone viral everywhere from Tiktok to Twitter. Before we get down to the content of this Y2K-soaked track, let’s get into the cover and style of JT. The Album cover is a Translucent CD case with her signature three-star stickers on the cover. The whole feel is like buying a mixtape back in 2004. Whether it’s the chunky studded name belt or the velvety boots over the jeans the whole ensemble pays homage to the OG Miami rapper Jackie O. As for the content you already know JT is not one to play with when it comes to her iconic verses. Her flow matched the look, as she reminds yall in the chorus/
“Bitch, I ain’t friendly, I don’t fuck with y’all bitches”
She was definitely in her y2k Dooney and Bourke Birkin as she flowed over a looped retro sample produced by Ben10k and Danes Blood. The overall track was exactly what BHM needed, paying homage to the rappers who pioneered the way for new heat.
Point Em Out by That Mexican OT ft DaBaby
This trap-heavy beat is carried by Mexican OT who spits on the beat so eloquently. Switching up the flow with every beat drop. To tie the track together, they had Dababy come in with his unique style. Don’t sleep on this track, if you’re looking for some rappers that can stay on beat and keep your speakers booming this BHM.
Ruin by Usher and Pheelz
Dropped in the middle of the night like a Christmas gift. Usher warms us up with sleazy smooth vocals cascading over a jazzy afrobeat. This isn’t a traditional Usher track, he’s coming back with what’s hot and relevant. Obviously, he couldn’t miss out on the opportunity to team up with Afrobeats artist Pheelz whose hushlike vocals laced the chorus along with his own verse that either makes you want to wine up on the dance floor or take a long midnight drive to vibe out to. Whatever flavors the composer- also Usher-infused- on this track must have been an ode to those who saved themselves from people who may have taken them for granted or refused to let them shine. This track is there as a reminder to get out there and not let anyone “ruin” your moment”.
Stackin by It’s P and Curren$y
BoogieBeatz916 Production presents Vibe Muzik 2 by It’s P. Emerging in the rap scene initially as a Soundcloud rapper, the artist teamed up with underground heavyweight, Curren$y, each verse fusing together to create an airy fresh sound. The sound is reminiscent of the aftermath of a house party in Beverly Hills, as the sun rises upon scattered trash and champagne glasses and dirty speedos in a swimming pool. Maybe too elaborate but the track itself is smooth.
Bandit- Don Toliver
Cooking up next, Don Toliver jumps on a trapstyle take o, Tame Impala sample One More Hour. Already at top 10 trending on youtube. Toliver is back with another banger. Roll up a Legacy Blunt and blast this wherever you’re at, and it’s guaranteed to hit. The single dropped the same week as the music video. The visuals offer Sons of Anarchy x Death Proof themes while Don Toliver maintains his bad boy aesthetic leading a Hardstone biker group through a midwestern desert. The visuals even feature his lover Kali Uchis. PProduced by ReidMD, the track is gonna get going whether it from that infectious beat or the way Toliver absolutely tailors each verse to match his visuals aesthetic.
The Main EVENTby Hit-Boy and The Alchemist
Next track up we have The Main Event, this track is full of surprises because of the switch up. In the beginning, it holds the essence of a UFC video game lobby room. The artist wants you to feel like you’re starting the day like the fighter’s entrance before entering the ring. Dark, loud and the air is sour and heavy. You’re light on the balls of your feet keeping your guards and dukes up before throwing the first punch that can make or break you. The transition sounds like a flashback to the training room before the fight, where it’s only you and the image of your rival in your head as you practice your left jab right hooks and southpaws on the punching bags. Overall if you have a gym playlist, this is one of the tracks that deserves to be on it.
Take What’s Given by BADBADNOTGOOD
In contrast to the gritty and rough nature of The Main Event, Take Whats Given by BADBADNOTGOOD, is as lighthearted as a Disney kids movie. It’s positive and warm with a message thats as simple as the title “Take What’s Given.” This song is reminiscent of morning car rides to town, as you’re grabbing your coffee, running errands or taking your daily stroll. Performed and produced entirely by the band. The music harps on positive frequencies perfect for starting your day. Give it a listen and tell us what you think about it in the comments.
Crying Through My Teeth by Yaya Bey
Next up we have our Brooklyn Sade, Yaya Bey in Crying Through My Tears. This lofi track is short but poetic. Her introspective take on her reality and the advice given to her by her father is like a cannonball through a day colored silk. Bey’s lament swirls softly into the jazzy rhythm of the track. Her voice and cadence relays a Harlem Blues that can only be found in secret lounges and cafes. A lovely track to jazz to when you’re in your feels or just want to relax this Black History Month.
Bonnet- TiaCorine
TiaCorine won’t take her foot off her haters necks with Bonnet. Similar to the last track , this one is short and sweet. This drill type beat makes you wanna hit the floor and shake your hips. TiaCorine bars the entire beat down from the time it starts all the way to the end. 5 seconds in and your headphones are already smoking. Now let’s get into the visuals. She released the video the day before and it is mindblowing! The video carries themes of Kill Bill x Afro Samurai x The Last Dragon. It’s colorful and poppy but still packs one hell of a punch. Shoutout to the artist for making it to the 2023 XXL Freshman list, which we covered here!(plug internal link).
Buffalo Kitchen Club by Benny the Butcher & Armani Caesar
The Butcher’s here! Back with a new album “Everybody Can’t Go” just a few days shy of Black History Month. This time he collaborated with Armani Ceaser on Buffalo Kitchen Club. This is the 8th song on the album and arguably one of the most underrated. Caesar’s confidence oozes from her lips in each stanza and verse. Starting with the hook, she sets the precedent as Benny comes in swinging as he spits nothing but heat in every verse he switches up on. Both artists barring down each verse over The Alchemist’s piano sample creates a grimly melodic feel, like expensive fur coats in a funeral parlor murder. Check out our album review for a breakdown of “Everybody Can’t Go”.
That wraps up our first 2024 Black History Month Hot Music Friday! Be sure to check out our playlist for all the songs on our list and more! These artists represent the essence of Black History whether it’s through their art, style, or message. Let us know what you think of our list!
