With the passing of outrageous gun and abortion laws, this week we grew even more embarrassed of America. But, at least the music here is good? The spring and summer seasons always bring festivals, new albums, singles, and the weather to enjoy (and escape) it all. This week we heard how Azealia Banks inspired Beyoncé, watched Omarion and Mario duke it out on Verzuz, and got an announcement from Brent Faiyaz. Check out the latest in music news below!
Giveon – Give or Take
Our favorite baritone, Giveon, released his sophomore album, Give or Take. This comes two years after his debut album, Take Time. Staying in the lover boy lane, Giveon brings back true R&B themes of the stages of love. As well as voice memos from his mom as we heard in the last album. Both titles are great plays on his name and capture the ebbs and flows of relationships.
Beyoncé “Break My Soul”
On Monday, Beyoncé dropped the first clue to her upcoming album, Renaissance with “Break My Soul”. House and dance music has been here forever, but of course, once Beyoncé steps into the sound, the genre will take off. All we want to do is dance this summer, so it is fitting. An unknown source told Metro UK that Beyoncé was listening to a couple of black dance scene artists to brainstorm for the record. And “Early Azealia Banks records” made the list.
Azealia Banks “I Rule The World”
With Drake and Beyoncé putting out dance music, OG house fans are helping Azealia Banks’ music receive its well-deserved recognition. Azealia Banks put her single “I Rule The World” up on her skin care and official merch site, cheapyxo.com for purchase. Its pride, pay the girls. This single was debuted during Ottolinger’s latest showing at the FW22 Paris Fashion Week.
Willow Smith “<maybe> it’s my fault”
Willow Smith dropped a new single “<maybe> it’s my fault”, and the production is crazy. Thanks to Chris Greatti, and the rest of the collaborators for the insane guitar and drum sequences. In just under 3 minutes, the track makes it clear to see that Willow has found her pop-punk sound. With breathy vocals, we hear Willow emote over grungy instrumentation about accountability in relationships.
Omarion VS Mario
On Thursday, Omarion and Mario had a night of R&B and shenanigans as they battled on the Verzuz platform. The battle brought a nostalgic feel similar to that of the Millennium Tour shows, but also brought so much more. Including appearances from Ray J, Jeremih, Tank, and Omarion’s brother, O’Ryan. Fans have taken to social media to discuss and critique the performances and are still doing so three days later.
Brent Faiyaz – Wasteland
R&B is up, Brent Faiyaz announced via Instagram that his new album, Wasteland is coming July 8th. After teasing the album since May, the cover art and track list have arrived. Of the nineteen tracks, new features on the album are Alicia Keys, Maryland artist Joony, and frequent collaborator Tre’ Amani of Lost Kids.
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