akua naru is a rapper whose distinctive brand of hip-hop incorporates Soul, Jazz and Blues elements. Her new album, All About Love: New Visions, is both inspired by and an ode to the late Black feminist icon bell hooks and her classic text ‘All About Love’, which examines society and its ideals of love. The album sees naru reimagine fan favourites like ‘Poetry: How Does It Feel?’ and ‘Seraphim’, alongside deep cuts such as ‘(Love) Right Now’, ‘Joy’ and ‘Run Away’. An exploration of all the various iterations of love, the record also includes new tracks that among other things celebrate the enduring power of unconditional love through the tenderness of motherhood. An emotional audio experience for those who understand the urgent and fortifying power of love, it is also intended to provide a sonic balm to listeners, especially during these dark and troubled times. One of naru’s new songs, ‘Somebody Mama’, has been released as a single to coincide with International Women’s Day, equipped with a killer bassline, an irresistible groove and a chorus full of joy and positive vibes.
Riding the momentum of a banner year marked by tours with Ayra Starr and Nia Archives, and a prestigious nod as Complex’s Best New Artist, the genre-defying visionary SadBoi is back to dazzle and disrupt with her new hit ‘Slide’ available now via LVRN Records/The Orchard. “‘Slide’ is one of those songs that I really made with no intention other than to uplift myself and make myself laugh,” shares SadBoi. “But let it be known that I really am that girl on and off social media. ‘Slide’ sees the Toronto artist fully embracing the raw energy of drill rap, a dynamic departure from her R&B origins. Her naturally smooth voice takes on the gritty texture of drill, blending seamlessly with the genre’s sharp, compelling beats influenced by Brazil’s baile funk. This bold transition underscores her versatile artistry, showcasing her ability to adapt and thrive in new sonic landscapes. ‘Slide’ heralds a new chapter in SadBoi’s musical journey as she maintains her hallmark of genuine emotion and authenticity.
DETO BLACK has merged forces with CHI on latest single ‘It’s A No From Me’, released via Payday Records. Bursting through the doors with her first release of the year, the Nigerian rapper delivers an infectious, house-rap anthem. Layering tongue-in-cheek verses over Finn Wigan’s propulsive, club-tinged production, the artist invites friend and collaborator CHI, sharing a slick, bubbly energy across the track. No stranger to virality, DETO BLACK leads with an intrigue for new sounds and styles from across the globe. First establishing herself within Nigeria’s alté scene, the it-girl rhymer has collaborated with the likes of Mowalola, Yves Tumor and VTSS, whilst entering the fashion realms alongside Diesel, Vivendii and more. As she gears up for the year ahead, ‘It’s A No From Me’ marks a buzz-worthy return, accompanied by visuals directed by none other than Cruel Santino. Speaking on the release, DETO BLACK describes ‘It’s A No From Me’ as “a fun song Chi and I created in her living room. We were just being funny and taking the piss out of things we really dislike when it comes to dating men – it’s basically our ick list!” [via Clash]
Mellow Rackz, a rap singer and Fashion Nova representative, has released a new song, ‘Any Chick,’ along with a captivating music video. The song, produced by Bigg D, a Grammy-winning producer, is not just a song but a statement about self-love and strength. Mellow Rackz is the star of the music video, which shows her singing and rapping in a vintage car and a beautiful mansion in South Beach. The video does not feature male actors, which is unusual for rap videos, and emphasizes that success comes from within and does not depend on others. [via Earmilk]
