It’s time to spin the records of our hip-hop and rap recommendations. These songs are at the cutting-edge of the genre from some of the globe’s best underground acts, so pay attention kids, you’re about to learn something.
Exploring the haunting cycles of life, JBEE’s ‘Déjà Vu’ captures moments of eerie familiarity, inviting listeners into the wordsmith’s world of personal highs and lows. His emotive lyricism, paired with a smooth, rhythmic delivery, highlights his unique ability to make introspection resonate powerfully. Marking his comeback after an 18-month hiatus, ‘Déjà Vu’ signals a pivotal moment in JBEE’s evolution. It’s a hypnotic return for the MOBO-nominated North London rap talent, blending introspection with a melodic drill soundscape. With its atmospheric production and relatable themes, the single showcases his artistry while building anticipation for an ambitious 2025.
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From 0sb0rne’s debut EP, Know Me, ‘In The City’ is a captivating exploration of melancholic trap-pop, capturing the emotional pulse of modern life. With husky, soulful vocals layered over atmospheric instrumentals, 0sb0rne crafts a sound that’s both introspective and accessible. The dark pop tones and heartfelt lyrics paint a raw, honest portrait of urban loneliness, love, and loss, resonating with listeners on a deep level. His unfiltered approach allows each track to breathe, making Know Me a deeply personal EP that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences in a beautifully haunting soundscape.
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‘Who’s in Town?’ is a standout track that bridges nostalgic ’90s boom bap with a modern hip-hop edge. Vacatixn and Kieron Boothe deliver sharp, introspective verses over Kyl’s jazz-infused, soulfully gritty production. With its crackling drum patterns and warm analog textures, the track recalls legends like J Dilla and Pete Rock while staying fresh and relevant. Themes of ambition and identity intertwine with clever wordplay, and the duo’s effortless chemistry amplifies the track’s raw yet polished feel. A celebration of hip-hop’s roots with a contemporary twist, ‘Who’s in Town?’ is a must-listen for fans of lyricism and classic beats.
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With a decade-long career rooted in authentic storytelling, Ice Meez continues to craft relatable and impactful music with ‘Do Better’. Featuring Nett Leilani, this is an empowering anthem that blends sharp lyricism with soulful hooks. Ice Meez delivers confident, reflective verses that champion self-worth and resilience in relationships, while Nett Leilani’s smooth, heartfelt vocals amplify the emotional core of the track. Produced by Treih Earl, the song’s infectious beat balances a vibrant, club-ready bounce with introspective undertones, making it equally suited for the dancefloor or a reflective playlist.
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Sam Redmore and Abdominal’s ‘Mother Earth’ is a gripping, high-energy fusion of New Orleans-inspired orchestral grooves and urgent hip-hop. Featured on Sam’s sophomore album Modulate, the track is an inventive climate-conscious anthem. Sam’s escalating tempo mirrors the spiraling effects of the climate crisis, creating a palpable sense of urgency. Abdominal’s sharp, multi-perspective verses—ranging from a child to a polar bear to Mother Earth herself- add narrative depth and emotional weight. The track’s thematic intensity is amplified by a stunning video from Maculate. ‘Mother Earth’ is a bold, creative call to action, blending music and message seamlessly.
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‘Circles’ is a deeply introspective piece of conscious hip-hop, channeling the haunting grip of addiction into poetic storytelling from burgeoning talent College Rd. The track carries a raw, confessional energy, as if the craving itself becomes a shadowy spirit, haunting from within. Lyrically vivid and emotionally charged, it transforms personal struggle into a universal exploration of human frailty. The minimalist beat mirrors the cyclical, suffocating nature of addiction, while the artist’s delivery balances vulnerability with resolve. Rooted in the authenticity of College Rd’s formative experiences, ‘Circles’ is a poignant homage to growth, self-awareness, and the redemptive power of music. A gripping, reflective listen.
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PURPLE MELON 