Category: music

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Vibes… #SundaySongs

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Hey all, Happy Sunday! I know Sundays for most are quite relaxing or religious and laid back. I have compiled a list of a few songs I’m playing at the moment that have that chilled back vibe. Remember to check out my Spotify playlist on the top of the page! Have a listen below and next week I will be back with more content for you.

Kehlani Ft. Ty Dolla $ign – Nights Like This (2019)

Fun fact: Kehlani was actually the reason I started writing about songs. Originally I started writing as a therapy for me to express my thoughts and problems and it was all due to hearing one of her songs. She has the ability to sing a song and get you invested to the point you start seeing the similarities in your own life. I’ve already talked about my love for Ty Dolla in features and this song is no different. The pair in this song are perfect. This song plays on the idea of deceit and dishonesty as she sings; “You gon’ say you want me, then go switch it up, just gon’ play with my emotions” implying that she’s been messed about. You can feel the pain she feels in this song; “Feel like it’s too hard to fall in love again”, the experience has even made her wary of trying again. Overall, this is one of my favourite Kehlani songs. Have a listen below.

Eric Bellinger Ft. Chris Brown & OG Parker – Type A Way (2019)

This song is taken from Eric’ new 32 song EP titled ‘The Rebirth 2′. I’ve been a fan of Eric Bellinger for a while, he’s a great songwriter and has some great songs. He has a unique catchphrase “This gon’ be your favorite song” which I love hearing at the beginning of a song. OG Parker is a producer and sometimes I feel like producers don’t get enough credit so shout out to him has the production for this song is on point. Chris Brown and Eric fuse so well in this song that sometimes it is hard to even know who was singing. They have similar talents where they can hit high notes and low notes in the same breath. I like the fact that the song is quite mixed in terms of both of them singing. A featured song is mostly just a little piece of the featured artist but this is more a collaborative effort. Have a listen below:

Hypo Ft. Yxng Bane & Asco – First Night (2019)

This is a UK feature and boy is it catchy! The song reminds me exactly of Usher’s song “I Don’t Mind” (2014) where he states that if a woman chooses to be a pole dancer it doesn’t mean she is “loose” which is the stereotype associated with that profession. Similarly to Usher’s song Hypo, Yxng Bane & Asco sing about the same premise and even argue that sleeping with a man on a first night does not mean the guy will not “wife” her. The UK guys make a good group and I’m sure you’ll be singing the chorus repeatedly after a few listens. Have a listen to the song below as well as Usher’s song that possible served as inspiration for them.

Usher’s original
Hypo version.

Pia Mia – Ocean Drive (2017)

Pia is most famous for her song “Do it Again” with Tyga and Chris Brown but I’m surprised this song from her wasn’t more of a hit. I like how the tone of the song changes and the sound gets more upbeat throughout the song especially during the chorus. This song will be best to listen to with a speaker that has a great Base or with both headphones in at the loudest volume. If you close your eyes, in pretty sure you can picture yourself on a beach somewhere, I certainly can!

Angel – Thug Juice (2018)

UK singer Angel has just signed with a major record label which is great. He is so talented and has such a distinctive voice so I’m glad he’s getting the recognition he deserves. This song fits in with the theme of this post. If you want a song to chill to and just bop your head slowly, this is the perfect song. Have a listen below.

2 important video reviews coming next…

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Motown Classics!

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Hello everyone! Today’s post is based on Motown hits/era. After the Grammy tribute last week it got me reminiscing. Motown is the name a record label originally founded in 1959, the label/lifestyle played a huge part in the fusion of African Americans in popular music. Artists such as Diana Ross, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder and The Jackson 5 to name a few. Eventually Motown became more than just a record label but a genre of music. Here are a list of a few of my favourite Motown hits!

Gladys Knight – Midnight Train to Georgia (1973)

This is one of my all time favourite songs! The song was featured on Gladys Knight & the Pips’ 11th album “Imagination.” Personally I believe it is one of the greatest love songs I’ve ever heard. One of my favourite lines that is repeated throughout the song is when Gladys sings ” I’d rather live in his world than live without him in mine”. Throughout the song she sings about a man that has to leave and travel to Georgia while she is in LA.
It seems like he did not find what he was looking for; “He kept dreamin’ (Dreamin) Ooh that someday he’d be a star (A superstar but he didn’t get far)”. Gladys is saying that she loves him enough to leave her “world” and her home to go and join him in Georgia (his world). There is no love without some compromise or sacrifice and this song is a prime example of both.

The Contours – Do You Love Me (1962)

As a 25 year old, Motown is not really my generation however with timeless music, no matter your age or generation you are almost guaranteed to hear a cover or an adaptation somewhere. I first heard this particular song on the teenage show ‘Sister, Sister’. The song is a real dance song and the way they belt out “Do you love me” throughout the song will have you wanting to dance along. In the show i saw it, the sisters Tia and Tamera were performing it with their friend Ray who happened to have a crush. The scene was quite comical which played into the theme of the song. Have a listen to the song below.

The Supremes – You Can’t Hurry Love (1966)

“You can’t hurry love, no you just have to wait…she said love don’t come easy, it’s a game of give and take”, classic words sung by The Supremes (with some vocals from Diana Ross). This song focuses on the idea that nothing in life can be rushed like love, you have to give it time. The whole song is based on the advice a mother has given advising her daughter to have faith regardless of heartbreak or the fear of loneliness, the right person will come along. Have a listen below:

The Temptations – My Girl (1964)

A classic hit! This song which I believe is co-written by the legend that is Smokey Robinson is a song which is played even till today. A beautiful love song. The song reminds me of a sonnet. The men sing about how love makes them feel due to a specific girl; ” I’ve got so much honey, the bees envy me, I’ve got a sweeter song than the birds in the trees…all these wonderful emotions they receive from being in love. Have a listen below:

The Jackson 5 – I Want You Back – (1969)

As soon as I hear the intro beat of this song i’m ready to burst out into song. Michael and his brothers as young as they were, hit all the notes in this song beautifully. It’s hard to believe that 11 year old boys were the ones singing this song. I also like the use of the instruments throughout which gives it a feel good factor.

Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell -You’re All I Need To Get By (1968)


Its a wonder how much bigger the late Tammi Terrell could have been if she didn’t unfortunately die so young. Tammi and Marvin Gaye always made a great duo. This song apparently was recorded while she was recovering from a surgery following her cancer diagnosis. This song has gone on to feature in many romantic films and with the words they sing it’s no surprise.

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Happy Valentines Day! ❤️❤️

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Happy Valentines Day everyone Hope you all had wonderful days/nights!!

Just a quick one. Here are 5 of some of my favourite modern love songs. I’ve focussed on the theme of the beginning of the relationship when everything is all rosy and fresh. I have also included my current slow jams and throwbacks Spotify link. I am in the process of filtering out some songs from there and as soon as I have a new an improved slow jams mix you will all know. Have a read and listen below.

1. Fantasia – When I See U (2006)

I’ve written about my love for this song before and boy is it perfect for a day like today. Fantasia sings her heart out in this song and you can’t help but feel the love. The opening verse describes how it feels when you have that crush or first love for someone; “I put your picture on my mirror, start to blush when somebody says your name” a feeling many of us know. The main reason I love this song so much is because of how relatable it is. It’s one of those songs that will have you thinking of a particular person as you belt out her verses. Fantasia’s voice in this song is sensational and the video is just as beautiful. Have a listen and watch below.

2. Beyoncé – Dangerously In Love (2003)

Okay so this is one of my favourite Beyoncé songs of all time. I love the sentiment behind the song and the calming vibe it provides you with. The opening lines “Baby, I love you, you are my life..my happiest moments weren’t complete if you weren’t by my side”, beautifully sung. Beyoncé harmonises with her own voice in this song and I feel like we are intruding on a duet between herself and herself! The lyrics are beautiful in this song.

3. Usher – U got it Bad (2001)

If we’re being honest 99% of Usher’s discography can be featured in this list. I picked this one because it plays on the theme of the beginning of falling in love. The song plays on the idea Usher is ready to leave his player ways as he has found the woman of his dreams. Again, this song focusses on the honeymoon period; “You got, you got it bad. When you’re on the phone, hang up and you call right back”, the beginning of the relationship when you’re in looooooove. Have a listen below.

4. Jennifer Lopez Ft. Fat Joe – Hold U Down (2005)

“You don’t know how much you mean to me, whenever you’re down you know that you can lean on me”, wiser words have never been spoken. I love how wholesome this song makes me feel. The idea that in a relationship you both help and support each other. I like how the partnership is demonstrated with the merging of verses with JLo singing her verse and Fat Joe rapping his but sometimes linking together.

5. Bob Marley & The Wailers Ft. Lauryn Hill -Turn your Lights Down Low (1999)

Last but not least one of the greatest songs from Bob Marley or Lauryn Hill in my opinion. I know I’ve written about this song before but I will always bring it up when talking about love songs! This remix features the two legends’ voices merging like it was meant to be. My favourite lines have to be when Lauryn raps “Loving you is a like a song I replay, every three minutes and thirty seconds of every day”…I mean what better analogy to express love than with music! Haha! Honestly the harmonies in this song are heavenly! Check the song out below.


*A MOTOWN POST WILL BE UP SHORTLY*

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R.I.P. Cadet! Cadet! #UnderratedLegend

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Unfortunately over the weekend we were presented with sad news that UK rapper Cadet had sadly passed away. I have previously written posts on Cadet and talked about his amazing lyrical ability. It’s a sad time for the UK music scene as I believe we have truly lost a talent. Part of the reason I love music so much is because of how lyrics can make you feel. Cadet was one of those people that I knew with any song he was part of, I would want to hear what he had to say. He always referenced real life events which I loved and found very original.

An amazing thing I noticed with Cadet was that he always let people know how much they meant to him. All of the messages I have seen written by his loved ones show he always told them he loved them. I love that. Unfortunately we never know God’s plan for us on this earth but i’m pretty sure his was to spread love and inspire those after him. Life can be taken away from us at any moment so one thing we should take from this…to always express how we feel. Never give up on something you can’t go a day without thinking about and ALWAYS be gracious. He will be truly missed by the music scene but I am sure he’s resting in peace and somewhere up there spitting his bars and spreading even more love and positivity. 🙏🏾

1.Cadet – Slut freestyle (2015)

So! This was the freestyle that actually made people see him as a potential lyricist. The raw emotion and storytelling in this freestyle is possibly one of the best I’ve seen. We were shown his vulnerable side from the very beginning and I admire that from a rapper.

https://youtu.be/m1FeIlIU_d4

2.Tinie Tempah Ft Cadet & Youngs Teflon -Might Flip (2015)

Cadet has the first verse in this song from Tinie’s mixtape. This was probably one of the first songs he featured in after his success with his freestyle. At the time there was a lot of controversy over the nightclub DSTRKT, which Cadet cheekily mentioned in his verse. Starting his verse with his usual catchphrase “Cadet, Cadet” he raps “me and my heart we been moving like DSTRKT, so baby girl we ain’t letting you in”. I remember hearing that for the first time and thinking ha! This guy is clever!

https://open.spotify.com/track/3pIzFbrDvKfkUZZBl4zScQ?si=gRNyrYZPTA2TFTJpY5GDHg

3.Cadet Ft Shakka – Friday to Sunday (2017)

I’ve written about my love for this song before. This is definitely one of my favourite songs from both Cadet and Shakka. The song is such a feel good song and extremely catchy. The song is taken from Cadet’s second mixtape.

https://open.spotify.com/track/6uA2FFRyVNzJTmfWcuJ8Bd?si=_c_QxSAKTtmONE6aqsKGOg

4. Cadet – The Stereotype (2016)

This is a typical Cadet song. A stripped back piece of work where he spits his soul with no gimmicks or unnecessary extras. A song that will have you thinking about life and experiences. Similarly to his “Slut” freestyle, Cadet speaks about his life and his weaknesses.

https://open.spotify.com/track/6LgGQmwZ9eV2Pfqo83h2G0?si=O7Jm6rwiS62TzydYNLa4jA

5.Cadet -Letter to Krept (2016)

The reason I think alot of people fell in love with this song was because it really explained the struggles Cadet faced. Again, another record where he wasn’t scared to tell the truth and be seen as vulnerable. He openly apologises to his cousin and fellow rapper Krept and grips onto your emotions.

https://open.spotify.com/track/4QuauxwBo57qlCIWDUBgTf?si=qBsk0MQvRJivEJ08Uw_ZAw

6. Da Beatfreakz Ft AJ x Deno, Swarmz & Cadet – Pumpy (2018)

Cadet’s verse on this was the best verse from the whole song in my opinion. He really owned this song “want your ball like she Pele”…”I got asthma, lemme pump that” two examples of the puns he used. He was definitely very inventive with his use of them.

7. Cadet Ft. Ay EM X Tion Wayne – Trendy (2018)

This will be one of my favourite songs from Cadet. One of his most recent ones and in his words “Can’t talk trending without talking CADET!! CADET!!”. Have a read one of one of my earlier posts on this song.

https://youtu.be/naP1GT_dY5k
https://musicandlifeblog.com/2019/01/02/songs-ive-been-playing-into-2019/
https://musicandlifeblog.com/2019/01/02/songs-ive-been-playing-into-2019/
https://open.spotify.com/track/7tuufLHEFi2hO9rAnSAQyJ?si=4LAKjp6-RE-cJnx7C9vTPQ

8. Cadet Ft Deno Driz – Advice (2018)

This song originally started off as one of his signature freestyles. After the million views and increased interest, he made it into a released song. This was Cadet’s first song to turn silver and was his highest entry in the charts. Cadet shows his versatility by sticking with his signature comedic bars but making a song that can be on commercial radio. My favourite thing about the song was the fact he incorporated social news inside the song. He referenced the Dele Ali challenge, Shiro’s Story, his old songs as well as the Tion Wayne picture incident.

Cadet was infamous for his freestyle raps, here are a few of my favourite freestyle / battles;

Cadet – Ooouuu Remix (2016)

https://youtu.be/xe996DaRh9o
https://open.spotify.com/track/3qsVra5t4q4jhMyTbvSlVC?context=spotify%3Auser%3Aspotify%3Aplaylist%3A37i9dQZF1DZ06evO0WjEBK&si=kNqnuqmXRK6U0FKlONBl2g

Cadet x Big Tobz – Corn

https://youtu.be/jmPLanMtYnE
https://open.spotify.com/track/6p7sQMLbmFS0RxDzY2l7hH?si=p6u_hgQSRKixyDZx6_3MZA

Cadet – Ain’t like that

https://youtu.be/NBeL4Z1HHzM
https://open.spotify.com/track/6NhTdsSCzOSGRXHi8UnpkK?si=AHzJAjHKTh6s_Vezj_yxiQ

Rest in eternal peace CADET!!!! CADET!!!

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Drake: My personal Top 10 – Part 1 (Songs before 2013)

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Drake has recently announced his European tour dates & it got me reminiscing on his incredible discography. Here are my personal favourite top 10 Drake songs (in no particular order) released before 2013. I will be releasing a list for more favourites further down the years. A big shout out to some people that gave me their suggestions, it’s easy to forget some of the great songs Drake has released when there’s such a big library.

  1. Drake – Closer/ Closer To My Dreams (Comeback Season Mixtape) – 2007

This is one of his earliest tracks and boy isit good! The feature from Andrea is beautiful too. For me my favourite thing about this song is the rawness you get. There are no gimmicks on this song, just a lyrically great song. Drake before he became Drake.

2. Drake – Over My Dead Body (Take Care Album) – 2011

The first verse on this song is personally one of my favourite Drake verses. I’ve mentioned my love for this song before but everything about this song to me is spot on. The beat behind the track, Drake’s flow, the background vocals…everything! Despite the background vocals and amazing simple beat, there is a stripped back feel to this song. This is the kind of song you just close your eyes and feel.

3. Drake – Best I Ever Had – (So Far Gone) – 2009

This is a classic Drake song and one of his biggest hits. The reason I personally love this song is because it demonstrates his vocal range. Drake hits the high notes and lowest of notes in the same line. This song feels like Drake verses Drake. Throughout the song it genuinely feels like you hear every version of Drake and to me that proves his versatility.

4. Drake – The Real Her Ft. Andre 3000 (Take Care Album) – 2011

Even though Andre 3000 has possibly one of the best feature verses of all time…the song wouldn’t be what it was without Drake.

5. Drake – Shut It Down Ft. The Dream

Singing Drake will always be a pleasure to listen to. Drake has the ability to have different sounds depending on your mood. This song is best when you’re relaxing or chilling. Drake & The Dream’s voices blend so beautifully on this track too. “I feel like when she moves, the time doesn’t” is one of my favourite lines in the song.

6. Drake – Shot For Me (Take Care Album) – 2011

“I can see it in your eyes, you’re angry”…those lines are legendary. Another song from my favourite Drake album. The outro for this song is one of the best. “May your neighbours respect you, trouble neglect you, angels protect you & heaven accept you”. The instruments used in this are perfect for the mood especially as it leads into Headlines…..

7. Drake – Headlines (Take Care Album) – 2011

Pure rap. This song is just filled with bars. A hit every-time you listen. One of my favourite lines is “I guess it really is just me, myself and all my millions”, simply because it shows a different side of a Drake, a more confident side. Drake is known for being sensitive and making songs for women stereotypically. This song reminded everyone that he can do both; slow and sensual songs but also rap hits filled with bars.

8. Drake – The Motto – (Take Care Album) – 2011

I picked this song mostly for the impact it had. This song had everyone learning the lyrics word for word. His line “25 sitting on 25 mill” were iconic at the time as well as the term “YOLO” (you only live once). Listening to this song you can hear the growth in Drake over the years. His confidence has grown and it provided his raps with a different perspective.

9. Drake – Replacement Girl Ft. Trey Songz – (Comeback Season Mixtape) – 2007

For this song, Drake was the first unsigned Canadian rapper to have a video premiered on BET. This song despite being released over 10 years ago and from his second mixtape, is still a hit. Drake’s little freestyle he drops towards the end of the song is my favourite verse.

10. Drake – Uptown (So Far Gone Album) – 2009

I hear a lot of this song in Drake’s later song from his “We’ll be Fine” on his “Take Care” album. I like the slow pace in this song. Drake has the ability to slow a song down without ruining the flow. There is a line that sticks out for me which is “And when they call you the answer, you are hardly questioned”. The idea that no one is really questioning Drake because he is “the answer” to what is missing. This is so fitting because honestly I don’t think we have a better artist in terms of consistency and versatility about. I like the feature from Bun B & Lil Wayne too.

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5 Songs to start off your Week… #MusicMonday

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Can you believe we are already halfway through January!? Before you know it, this week will be over just as it’s beginning! I’ve made a list of 5 songs (old and new) to start off your week. Look out for more posts this week too. Enjoy!

1. Headie One Ft. Dave – 18 HUNNA  (Rap)

UK rappers Headie One and Dave unite on their first collaboration to create a new song for the streets. I personally think Dave makes this song and his feature is definitely one of my favourites from him. Have a listen below.

2. Bhad Bhabie Ft Tory Lanez – Babyface Savage (Rap)

I know… I cannot believe I am suggesting a song from Bhad Bhabie either. Surprisingly, this song is hard! I was very very surprised at her flow on this track and the feature from Tory in my opinion has to be one of his best rap features. Opinions for her aside, the song is worth a listen.

3. Benny Blanco Ft. Halsey & Khalid (Dance-Pop)

I’ve been playing this song for a few days. The fuse of voices from Halsey & Khalid is just magic. The song is focused on two people falling in love and reminiscing on their memories together. I like in particular how Halsey and Khalid provide different perspectives but with the same agenda. The song starts off with Khalid singing the verse and chorus before Halsey songs her verse and chorus. The song eventually finalises with both of them singing the chorus together. This demonstrates the narrative that while they both have their own versions, the main idea is that they come together. Such a beautiful song with beautiful voices.

Check out the song below;

4. Trey Songz Ft Ty Dolla & Tory Lanez  – Shootin Shots (R&B)

If you’re looking for a nice r&b melody this is the one for you. I mentioned this song on the Instagram page last week but I just want to elaborate on it. Trey Songz is arguably one of the best male r&b singers we have at the moment and this song is one of those that are pleasing to the ear.

5. Rick Ross Ft. Kanye West & Big Sean – Sanctified (Rap)

I’m sure I’ve mentioned this song in the past but I gotta mention it again! One of my favorite songs from Ricky Rozay and the features were spot on. There is no way you wouldn’t know all the words after a few listens.

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Weekly Song Roundup

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Hey everyone! I know I’ve been gone a while and apologies for the lack of content recently. I am back with more reviews for you. I will be reviewing some new albums for you shortly but for now it’s all about the latest tracks! Here are a few songs I’ve had on repeat this week.

1. Reeko Squeeze Ft. Br3yna – Tracksuit Maf

UK music has been amazing this year and gets more and more versatile each time. This song is by UK rapper Reeko with the amazing feature from UK female rapper Br3yna. The song will have you singing “all white party, I came in black” after hearing it. My favourite part of the song is Br3yna’s feature verse. Have a listen below.

2. 6ix9ine Ft Tory Lanez – KIKA

By now we all have heard the news that 6ix9ine has been put in jail awaiting his trial next year. Unfortunately for him, it came at the time he was due to release his debut album. A leak meant that his team had to release the album a lot earlier than they would have liked to. Personally I have never really liked his music or his projects so granted I was pleasantly surprised by this album. I genuinely enjoyed the songs and the features on the album all made sense. This particular song is my favourite on it and features feature champion Tory Lanez. The beat on this song and steel pan sounds sold it to me from the first few seconds. The song is definitely a club banger and it’s good to see 6ix9ine prove some of his doubters (like me) a bit wrong.

3. NSG Ft. Tion Wayne – Options

This song is produced by JAE5 so you all already know it’s a hit and I’m going to love it!! In all seriousness, this song is great! NSG seem to have a habit of making such great songs & Tion Wayne always delivers with his bars. This was a match made in heaven. It seems every member in the group all give different styles and sounds. NSG have been working for a while now and they consistently bring out hits so I hope they get a lot more recognition.

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3 Tracks you should be listening to:

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I’ve been slacking with my usual throwback reviews or new music reviews. Content will be back to normal very soon. In the meantime, I have a few songs on repeat on my Spotify atm and think you guys should check them out.

1. Professor Green Ft Rag’n’Bone Man – Photographs

I am a fan of Pro Green & love his deeper songs. Similarly to “Never be a right time”, this is another personal and relatable song with a beautiful message. I read somewhere that he said the track is “all about wishing for the photos we can no longer take”. The song is also a tribute to his dad who sadly commuted suicide. The lyrics are so touching and Pro Green is ultimately saying that photographs help when thinking of those we have lost, as he states “Just a memory of you is not enough”. The collaboration from Rag’n’Bone Man is perfect as the song has a great balance. One of the most memorable lines for me is when Pro Green raps “We all thought that the moments would last but the moments don’t last, the moments pass & the only thing that lasts is the photograph”. Hopefully this song inspires people to take more photos of and with their loved ones!

2. Ariana Grande – thank u, next

This song has gained so much attention for obvious reasons. I am beginning to really enjoy Ariana Grande songs. It may be due to the fact I feel she is maturing alot more in her song content and even her voice. The vocal ability in this song is overlooked. The great thing about this song is that it had the potential to become a very bitter song with a bad message but she has turned it in such a positive way. The message being sometimes in life we go through highs and lows, we fall in love and get hurt. The main thing to remember is each lesson you learn from each experience. Song content aside, the music production and Ariana’s angelic voice are amazing in this track. Only bad thing is that it’s so catchy that you will be saying “next” after every “thank you” now! Haha!

3. Mr Eazi – Yard & Chill

Mr Eazi has just released a new mixtaoe entitled “Lagos to London”. The EP contains a collection of great songs but this is one of the ones I’ve been playing since the release. The song is produced by one of my favourite producers Jae5. It’s a feel good song with incredible music production that would make you think you are listening to a live rendition in your earphones. “Give me love baby, don’t be wicked”, you will be screaming this line in a Nigerian accent after hearing this song. The song reminds me of an African themed Orchestra or Highlife music. I recommend you play this song on the loudest volume to appreciate the sound at its best!

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One Acen – SexyOddRose EP Review

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OK so UK rapper One Acen has released his highly anticipated debut EP. Up to now, he’s been gaining more and more recognition for his catchy singles and classic collaborations with fellow UK rapper Hardy Caprio. One thing I’ve noticed about One Acen is that all of his songs have the replay factor. Every song on this EP could do well as an individual single and that is amazing for any artist let alone a debut EP!

My favourite tracks are:

1. NewwMachine Ft. CallMeTheKidd & Avelino:

Avelino is one of my favourite UK Rappers. Similarly to Wretch 32, he’s one of the few UK rappers that makes you think about what they say. In his verse he says things like “The money’s Dublin, I’m Irish… Take a tour de France we’re not cyclists”, The wordplay he exhibits is so fun to hear. The collaboration on this track is great and it is definitely a song I will be replaying.

2. Piña Colada Xperience/ 3. EIO Ft. Hardy Caprio

OK! These songs are special because firstly both are hits but secondly the transition between them. The transition after “Piña Colada” leading into “EIO” is genius! The sound reminds me of an old console game back in the day. The transition is so smooth that you forget they are two different songs. Nice to mention that “Piña Colada” contains references from Justin Timberlakes hit “Señorita” which probably explains the Spanish theme.

Have a listen to the EP below!

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Songs I’ve been playing this week.

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Here are some songs I’ve been listening to over the past weekend, some new and some old. Have a listen below;

1. Normani & Calvin Harris Ft. WizKid – Checklist:

I’m beginning to enjoy a lot of the music Normani has been featuring in recently. I like her R&B tone of voice and this particular song is another catchy banger. Have a listen below.

2. Papoose Ft. Remy Ma & Angelica Villa – The Golden Child

Pap & Remy are soon due to have their first child together (they both have kids from different relationships). They have always been honest with the struggles they have faced trying to concieve so it is no surprise they are celebrating this pregnancy. I like the honesty in the song and you may notice the babys heartbeat in the song which is a very personal touch.

3. Big Tobz – Black Girls

UK rapper Big Tobz is back with another one of his songs. This time this song is about uplifting black women at a time that maybe being black can be challenging. It is refreshing to see a Black man uplifting his own and it is reminiscent of a song by Bashy called “Black Boys”. The beat is great and Tobz maintains a good flow throughout the song, even singing the chorus! Check it out below.

4. Young Greatness – Moolah

There was sad news that US rapper Young Greatness unfortunately was killed. ‘Moolah’ is probably considered one of his most popular songs and I just wanted to bring it to light again. Such a shame when such a talent is taken away like this, but may he rest in Peace. Have a listen below.

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Throwback Thursday!

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Hey everyone! So today is Thursday which means it’s the perfect day to reminisce on some older songs. Today’s feature contains three songs that are oldies but still goodies and all seem to have one thing in common…New York!

1. Jay- Z – Anything (2000)

I mentioned this song earlier in the week on my instagram story and I have been playing it repeatedly since. I love this song because it is living proof that music can be made from any sample. It also shows how and why Hov is considered one of the greatests with the ability to make a great rap song with a sample from the musical ‘Oliver‘. This was the second time Hov sampled a song featured in a musical after using “Hard Knock Life” from the musical Annie in his 1998 hit “Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)”. The song could be considered quite motivational as Hov regularly spits words of wisdom throughout the song. It seems as if Hov is reminiscing on the lessons he has learnt from people in his life; “Strive for what you believe in, set goals and you can achieve them”, this one from his mother. The standout lines for me in this song and the words that resonate are; “Don’t listen to your crew, do what works for you”…Standing back from situations gives you the perfect view”. The song feels like Hov is writing an open letter to young people teaching them all the things he has ekarnt from growing up. Have a listen below!

2. Lil Kim – No Matter What They Say (2000)

Following on the theme of life lessons, the second throwback song is by the Queen Lil Kim. The song is song expressing that in life you have to ignore what others may say “Who cares about what they think” and live your own life. The song alone has three different switches in the song. The beginning, the verses Kim provides us with her hard hitting taps while the chorus sounds more playful. The third switch up (my favourite bit) is after the second verse when the song changes tone and Diddy has a small interlude. Kim has a little freestyle where she states that she is “highest, your highest title, numero uno”. There is even a reference in the third verse to “Rapper’s Delight” by The Sugarhill Gang. Another rap song using references in such an amazing way. Have a listen to the classic Kim below.

3. The Notorious B.I.G. – Would You Die For Me Ft. Lil Kim & Diddy (1999)

Following on the theme of Kim & Diddy features, this song by one of my favourite rappers is an old school vibe. The beat of this song, Biggies unique flow and wordplay, Kim’s signature voice, & Diddy’s calm but catchy hook all make a match in heaven. I don’t know many other pairings other than Biggie and Kim that can consistently make hits. Check out the song below and get that nostalgic feel!

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New Music Saturday!

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It’s Saturday so that means more new music has been released this weekend. Here are a list of a few new releases I’m loving at the moment.

1. Zayn – Fingers

It’s been a while since Zayn has released new music and it’s clear that in his time away he has spent it perfecting his sound. This R&B vibe song is about a failed love that has affected Zayn from using his fingers properly to message. It is clear in the song further on that the the fingers are used as a metaphors for his heart as he sings “Cause my fingers ain’t broken, but my heart is”. I’m a fan of this song and I hope his next album is filled with more songs like this.

2. CE – On & On

CE debuts another sensual track this time in the form of his new single “On & On”. I feel this song could be the song that demonstrates his versatility, uniqueness. and huge potential. The catchy hook “on and on” is a standout line throughout the song that hopefully people will be singing for a while. Personally I’ve had this song on repeat since its release and while you’re at it, check out the video too!

3. Brent Faiyaz – Lost (EP)

Someone introduced me to Brent’s music a couple years ago and I am forever grateful. Brent has just released a new EP called ‘Lost’ and it is everything I expected and more. My favourite songs have to be;

-‘Came Right Back‘; Standout line for me is “Why do I feel cursed if I’m so blessed now?” he sings in the second verse. I get the impression Brent is talking about the downfalls of his success in this song but I mostly like how his voice just has you gripped throughout.

– ‘Trust’; The best thing about this song are the adlibs. Brent uses his inner thoughts as backing vocals which you can hear throughout. You get the impression the song is him thinking out loud and questioning himself which I feel is a unique way of portraying a song.

-‘Target on My Chest’; The beat on this song is great and the way Brent transitions to singing from rapping is the best part too. The middle of the song cuts to some kind of instrument solo possibly from a brass instrument which further reiterates the feeling Brent’s songs can put you in. As a listener you feel invested in whatever he is singing.

Have a listen to the EP below: