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
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Listen to the playlist on Spotify 2 here:
Grizzy Hendrix‘s “Jenny & Forrest” is a heartfelt tale about heartbreak. With a heavy heart, the emcee recounts his experience with a cheating ex whom he gave his all to, only to end up being heartbroken. From the puppy love stage to ignoring the red flags and self-denial, Hendrix breaks down the stages of grief and eventually found clarity after the fact. 730RS is all about the action on his new release, “Say Less,” a hard-hitting single that is bolstered by cinematic soundscapes and a no-nonsense flow, off-kilter rhyme schemes and wordplay. What is considered to be “The Perfect Verse”? Well, keefkanna presents his viewpoint on this single. The backdrop is soulful, warm and perfect for the rapper’s vivid lyricism and storytelling, which blends life experiences with a touch of surrealism. Mar Cus takes us through his convalescent process in his new single “Recovery (One Year Later).” Backed by a headnodding groove with soulful textures, the emcee reflects on his past and the power of clarity through failures and eventual success by changing his mindset into a positive tone. Emerging rapper Vlad Tz presents his version of “Real Hip-Hop” in his latest release. The beat has a guitar-driven feel with punchy drums and soft basslines underpinned by expressive rap verses. Artis Bourne Collective‘s “Who Do Dat” is na anthemic piece about standing on business and making a statement. The production is punchy, and the layered melodic vocals are quite engaging and soul-gripping. “Bass Out The Fortress” is a hard-hitting track that serves as the first leak from DJ Mirage‘s forthcoming LP. This time, he connects with producer Loui$ Menace, who laces him with a menacing beat for this singular purpose. For the verbal assist, DJ Mirage recruits heavy hitters, which include Eto, Flee Lord and AZ. The result is a tandem of verbal onslaught from rap luminaries who continue to pave the way for the next generation. The full album “Darius” is scheduled for release in May and will also feature appearances from Hus Kingpin, Daniel Son, XP The Marxman, Big Twins, G Fam Black, Reek Osama, Jae Hussle, Jamal Gasol and many more and will be available on all DSPs as well as on vinyl. For the first time, we have indie rap artist Prime Night, who delivers this heartfelt and profound track, “Lost Soul.” The track blends lofi-soul with contemporary melodic textures and snapping boombap drums underpinned by uplifting and insightful lyrics from SkyBlew and Red Luna.
Akete’s “Simple Things” is a track taken from his collaborative project, What U Won’t, produced by Hajino. The track has a lofi-soul feel with its moody and brooding samples and soft drums underpinned by Akete’s stream of consciousness raps and engaging songwriting. Canadian rapper JAW Rhythm enters this week’s playlist with “1500,” a laidback banger with scenic soundscapes and expressive rapping with vivid storytelling. The lyrics blend surrealism, abstract themes and stylish wordplay. P.S.Y.C. breaks his decade-long musical hiatus with the Jake Angel Beats-produced “Power Prayer,” an uplifting, inspirational track that talks about the power of prayer and faith. Over a gospel-tinged backdrop, the emcee shares his life experience and shows us how his faith brought him out of dark times. MARKIEVICZ is the moniker of the Dublin-based collective comprising J.F.O, xcaliber, and objectsnwo. The trio enter this week’s playlist with “BLACKENED HANDS,” a rock/hip-hop infused track that samples Vendetta Love. Here, the emcees take turns in sharing their respective views of inner struggle, systemic failures and the journey to finding peace. Jay-P The Storyteller take sus deep into the “Badlands” in this epic piece that highlights vivid storytelling and edgy rap schemes. Uptown DiGi steps up to the foreground with the anthemic “I Got The Hits,” an uplifting piece crafted for the stadiums and perfect for your exercise playlist. Green Enkd Society and Grand Wizzard MC give us “VIEWS FROM THE TOP FLOOR,” an aspirational tune about the good life after the grind and hustle have settled.
UK-based Czech singer/songwriter ANASTÁZIE returns to our playlist with “Chci ti říct” or “I want to tell you,” a reflective and soulful ballad about choosing oneself after going through emotional turmoil. Over a cinematic backdrop, the singer delivers a soul-stirring performance ripe with heartfelt lyrics sung in her native language. “Choosing Me” is a neo soul/hip-hop infused track brought to us by C-Red, Agent M and Black Buttafly. The production is smooth and groovy and reminiscent of the early SoulAquarians era, while the rap is eloquent and relatable as well. The vocal tone reminds me of the legendary Bahamdia from Philly. AI- entity Freq1c enters the week’s playlist with “Consciousness Set the Price,” an inspirational piece influenced by the Law of Assumption. Austin, Texas-based rapper Kez comes in scorching with “Chiropractor,” a bouncy track that sees him flexing his lyrical muscle and kicking game to the ladies.
James Gardin continues his path into the alternative rap game with “Watch Yo Step,” an upbeat jam that comprises dark synths, moody lead pads and energetic drums. Lucas Azalea’s “Far From Frail” is an insightful track comprising angelic vocal samples and soft drum grooves. Here, the emcees explore the power of unfiltered thoughts, self-belief and true purpose. Canadian rapper Ayemz dives into his psyche in “100 Bpm Therapy Pt.2,” an upbeat piece that sees the rapper detailing his journey to mental clarity. Next up is emerging rapper John Yesha, who drops a soul-stirring piece, “Chadwick,” celebrating the lane opened for black creatives by the success of Black Panther and the impact of Chadwick Boseman. The track blends experimental elements with Afrocentric sensibilities, and the lyrics are aspirational and heartfelt. Dutch emcee Kimi enters our playlist with “Kimi Player v2,” an anthemic track comprising triumphant horns and punchy trap drums. Here, the emcee flexes his lyrical biceps and closes the deal with a catchy hook. “Magic” is a smooth, sultry tune from singer/songwriter Bridget Saria, who fuses sensual vibes with a confident spirit over a guitar-driven backdrop. Canadian rapper Epic‘s single “Us” gets an experimental jazz remix courtesy of Trevar Fox. The track has a smooth piano riff, smoky atmosphere with snapping drums and features Epic’s off-kilter flow and solid bars from Inky.
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