The weekly Top Submissions aims to showcase a selected crop of acts that cross our paths. From the best tracks/videos from far and wide, we gather the upper echelon of artists you can find and give them a platform to be further recognized for their works. So, sit back and tune in, and don’t forget to show them some love by following them on all social media platforms

 

If you like this article, check out our previous entries HERE

 

Listen to the playlist on Spotify  1 here:

 

Hefty Lefty & YungFace are “Rollin Thru” our playlist with their latest collaboration. The track highlights their Texas roots and superb lyricism filled with bravado and vivid imagery underpinned by an atmospheric soundscape. Dennis Hobbs tells a heartfelt tale about life and family values in “Rice & Cornbread”. Over a horn-driven jazz-hop soundscape featuring lush keys and soft grooves, the emcee takes us down memory lane and the experiences that reshaped his life. Montreal-based rapper/songwriter Daniel Saad‘s “Godfidence” is an insightful and reflective track that explores his religious beliefs and faith in a world where he is surrounded by evil.  Backed by a bouncy groove and soulful samples, he details his approach in life with lines like  “I put my pride on ice/But my faith in flames/Every L had a price/But strengthened my name.” Metaphysical explores the effects of “The Madness of the City.” The profound piece finds the LA-based emcee reflecting on the numerous times he found himself in precarious situations and the struggles he had to overcome to become sane and stable. Prolific rapper/songwriter James Gardin returns with “Just My Luck,” a bouncy feel-good jam that continues his genre-bending singles. From retro-funk instrumentation, call and response hooks to house/club-ready grooves, Gardin takes audiences on a thrilling ride filled with playful, engaging rhymes. Indie rapper Dennis Hobbs reflects on finding one’s true purpose in “BORING ASS I-10”. The track’s fusion of soul/jazz with hip-hop sensibilities creates a solemn vibe perfect for Hobbs’ unapologetic take on life. He reminds us to forget the naysayers and stay focused on goals. Hard-working NY producer Kidd Called Quest and emcee MAV (Da’ Cloth) reimagine 50 Cent‘s classic “Many Men” in their latest collaboration. The sample flip is different and scenic, while the drums are heavier than the original. On the mic,   MAV (Da’ Cloth) delivers an equally potent tale that explores a similar theme as the original with a unique touch. “Smiley Faces” is a collaborative piece crafted by APOTEK from Italy, German Alex Lesage and UK emcee Di-Vincent.  The lyrics are detailed, and the imagery is immersive as the rapper’s commanding vocals and edgy songwriting dive into the dark side of city life, where nothing is promised, and illusions distract people from seeing the truth. The production has a dark, moody feel, and the 2-step drums also add a classic European feel to the beat.

Showrocka connects with Fuego Base and Chi sees for this unapologetic street banger “We Don’t Care.” Backed by an ominous backdrop featuring weird vocal sample chops, plucky textures and bass-heavy drums, the emcees show their disdain for fake wannabe gangsters who sell wolf tickets. No quarter is given or mercy shown to those individuals as each emcee take turn in laying down the proverbial hammer on their heads. Rising emcee nino bambino unveils his new single “DIAMOND DISTRICT” featuring Kid Q and Lucho. Over a trippy backdrop comprising offbeat synths, ethereal pads and solid drums, the emcees share how they keep their composure under pressure and the power of levelling up at the right time. New York-based North Carolina-raised artist Doni Nicole shares her feelings on “FEELING YOU.” The track talks about forthrightness in blossoming relationships and honesty. Over a classic soulfully powerful backdrop, Nicole states her mind as she asks the right questions before getting deep in love. To be honest, it’s the confidence and transparent approach that make the song brilliant, and of course, her sultry vocals.

“The Royale” is an all-out lyrical brawl presented by Drew Drake, who recruits the verbal assistance of Baby Boy Keith, Denzel Dejournette, and Tosin Morohunfola. As the title suggests, it finds the rappers slipping, weaving and throwing well-timed lyrical punches over an anthemic backdrop featuring brass stabs, military drum rolls and a highly animated ring-side announcer who pushes the contestants beyond the limits. Canadian emcee Tref teamed up with LaRussell and Adaora on “RUTHLESS,” a laid-back, bouncy track that blends mainstream R&B appeal with classic Bay Area vibes. LaRussell set the tone with his laid-back flow, followed by Tref’s melodic verse, and closed out with Adaora’s confident vocal runs and demeanour. The track is taken from Tref’s latest album, Dice Roller.

Germany-based Solid Plant Records plant their feet in this week’s playlist with “Slow Burn Romance,” a laidback, heartfelt track that explores the burning embers of blossoming love. The track blends classic R&B with pop aesthetics and a dash of soul, underpinned by an emotionally powerful story. Santa Cruz, CA-based rapper/producer ActivateBPM lits up the playlist with “Dynamite,” a raw and unfiltered track that highlights engaging storytelling and thought-provoking thoughts over a cinematic beat.

Canada-based Congo-born rap artist Cosmos ventures into our playlist with his latest release, “What’s Going On.” Backed by an ethereal angelic vocal sample-driven beat, the emcee shares his thoughts on fair-weather friends, inner demons and the never-ending drama that surrounds him. UK emcee Tyrage unleashes his “Powers” in this powerful single, where he delivers insight with a heavy dose of bravado. From seizing each moment to finding his true purpose in life, Tyrage uses every arsenal at his disposal to achieve his goals. MARC ERA shares his “BARE MINIMUM” requirement for a relationship to foster. Over a jazzy backdorp featuring sublime vocal hums, soothing horn riffs and a punchy drum groove, the emcee shares his frustration on wax as he tries to navigate the ever-evolving labyrinth of emotions. Armed with a commanding vocal tone and an off-kilter and expressive flow, ERA delivers a no-holds-barred performance underpinned by relatable songwriting that everyone can relate to. Indonesian R&B/soul singer/songwriter/producer KELJO enters our playlist with “Siapa Kamu?,” a heartfelt and upbeat jam that explores the concept of instant attraction. The self-produced cut blends 80s Indonesian-flavoured R&B/pop with a modern contemporary twist and finds KELJO crooning his way into our hearts with his velvety vocal runs garnished with heartfelt lyrics sung in his native language.

 

Emerging rapper Paul Prodigy, coming out of the town called Stephenville, TX, steps to the podium with his latest release, “Paultherapper.” The eponymously titled track is a semi-autobiography of sorts and finds the rapper sharing the story of his humble beginnings with a dash of bravado, reflection and undeniable conviction. The title is a nod to his previous moniker and also a way to celebrate his evolution as an emcee. North Philadelphia-raised Breadman MGV shows us how he moves with the grand in  “What We Do (REMIX) featuring Piannoman. The track is a celebratory anthem for everyone who has made it through the mud. Breadman MGV steps out in style as he details the pros of putting in work and savouring the smell of success as it comes.