Libianca’s “People” is an Anthem For Life’s Last Call

Libianca blessed us with an emotionally potent record titled “People” before 2022 came to a close and it continues to keep me locked in its therapeutic trance.

“I’ve been drinking more alcohol for the past 5 days, did you check on me?”

Libianca ponders on the slow moving, afrobeats conversation starter. Humans dependence on a vice isn’t new but with so many platforms to communicate sometimes it’s still a challenge to let people see when you’re hurting. Libianca’s songwriting and soothing vocals commanded me to listen and genuinely check in with myself the first time I heard a snippet of this song on TikTok and since the full track dropped, it hasn’t left my mind.

When an artist can share something this raw and somehow still make you want to dance, not only do they have a hit but they’ve fully tapped into the magic in music. Songs like this can heal and I hope whoever listens take a second to process how they feel when they hear “People”. Are the tequila shots celebratory or a means to getting through the night?

Raye's "Escapism" Is A Triumphant Joyride

Raye’s unwavering rise on the charts with her triumphant single “Escapism” off her forthcoming debut album My 21st Century Blues is a satisfying feat to witness. It’s taken 10 years and maneuvering through a lot of music industry politics for the U.K. songstress to be able to release a body of work and she’s showcasing her soul on this record and every track she’s dropped so far from this project. “Escapism” is a siren call that has Raye confessing her feelings after a night of overindulgence and broken hearts over a relentless 808.

A little context if you care to listen
I find myself in a shit position
The man that I love sat me down last night
And he told me that it's over, dumb decision

I can easily visualize the narrative being told on “Escapism” in my mind as I keep the potent track on repeat. Raye’s pen has garnered numerous hits but it hits so much better when her stirring vocals are in the front seat. As I’m writing this Raye is less than 400 units away from her first UK #1 as an independent artist. Well deserved and there are a lot more W’s on the horizon.

Shygirl's New Single 'Nike' Needs To Be On Your Rotation

Shygirl is preparing to bless the girls with her long awaited debut album ‘Nymph’ and we just got a taste of the new era with “Nike”, a subtle bop that has Shygirl talking her shit and simply telling you to do it like Nike. The production reminds me of Q-Tip’s 90s hit “Breathe And Stop” and a nice change of pace from Shygirl’s usual underground sound. “Nike” is the fourth single from ‘Nymph’ and has me ready to experience the full journey we’re about to embark on when the project drops on September 30th.

With a list of heavy hitters on the production side (Sega Bodega, BloodPop, Mura Masa and Goldstein to name a few) expect an experimental range of sounds from electronic dance, club pop, grime to industrial. Artists like Shygirl can really help listeners get introduced to dope talent that thrives outside of the Hot 100 charts. While we’re here check out a couple of my faves from the South London baddie and stream the fuck out of “Nike” immediately after.

Stream “Nike” below:

My Fave Shygirl Songs:

GloRilla is 'Blessed' and Highly Favored On New Single

GloRilla’s music feels like sharing a couple shots of Don Julio with your favorite people in the middle of a lit spot. Every time I hear her on a hard beat my energy is elevated and I’m mentally restraining myself from utilizing my Meg knees if the occasion doesn’t call for it. “Blessed” is the Memphis rapper’s latest offering and the slow burners is laced with gems in every bar;

Rather give the people hope, it's pointless to be givin' fucks
Cuban round my neck, look like my opps when they be linkin' up

The baddies and men comfortable with their masculinity can easily vibe to this record and Yo Gotti adds a solid verse at the end complimenting his newest signee’s unapologetic energy. Get into GloRilla’s next viral hit.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/2DNOQSfV9U1Wen1uffsdeP?si=-s5T1XmrTNKQUUA3X5GSmg

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/blessed/1642612029?i=1642612034