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.
Taking the charge in our latest Hip-Hop Recs playlist is Efi Cruise, who delivers a genre-blending gem that fuses smooth R&B rhythms with the grit of conscious hip-hop in ‘Soul’. Sampling Bob Marley’s ‘I Shot the Sheriff’, the track is both nostalgic and fresh anchored by a pulsing bassline, showcasing Efi’s signature southern afro-jazz style. His scat-inspired vocal delivery glides effortlessly over textured melodies and crisp drums, creating a soundscape that’s as emotionally rich as it is rhythmically engaging. With introspective lyrics that explore purpose, growth, and identity, ‘Soul’ is a heartfelt call to reconnect with one’s essence. It’s a powerful statement from an artist unafraid to blend depth with groove.
Follow Efi Cruise on Instagram.
‘PILOT’ is the collaborative track from Canadian artist Mouse Sucks and London’s The Dream Band, is an adventurous hip-hop instrumental that highlights unorthodox chops and features Jonny Wolf on guitar. Produced by The Dream Band, the song powerfully captures a breaking point in that critical moment of frustration and exhaustion stemming from toxic relationships, dead-end jobs, and general life weariness. It’s an energetic release, reflecting a raw, visceral reaction to having finally had enough. This collaboration showcases Mouse Sucks’ diverse artistry and The Dream Band’s experimental approach, creating a compelling and relatable sonic experience.
Follow Mouse Sucks on Instagram.
Follow The Dream Band on Spotify.
Fuelled by booming 808s and a hypnotic synth line, ‘OK!’ is a sonic power stance from Haviah Mighty. With this bold, electrifying anthem of self-assurance and unshakable worth, Haviah’s flow is fierce, fluid, and fearless. Lines like “look at my face, it’s glowing” aren’t just simple, flexes, they’re declarations of self-love and unfiltered confidence. It’s a track that stomps out doubt and centers personal truth, delivered with undeniable charisma and technical fire. The accompanying video amplifies the message visually, solidifying ‘OK!’ as both a banger and a mantra. Haviah Mighty is here and she’s unstoppable.
Follow Haviah Mighty on Instagram.
The neo-soul, hip-hop and R&B single ‘Compass’ beautifully articulates the universal yearning for guidance in love. Jade Fields’ track delves into themes of lost love, underscored by the poignant chorus, “I wish I had a compass, tell me where to go and I’ll go.” Fields effortlessly blends genres, creating a smooth, relatable sound that highlights the absence of a blueprint for navigating relationships. As the second single from his upcoming EP, ‘Compass’ showcases his talent for crafting emotionally vulnerable lyrics and pushing sonic boundaries, inviting listeners to connect with the often-confounding journey of the heart.
Follow Jade Fields on Instagram.
‘Free My People’ is a powerful collaboration between M1 of Dead Prez, Solomane, and Clean Shelter. It’s a potent conscious hip-hop single serving as a clarion call for peace. Born from a post-concert meeting, this fundraiser track features a no-frills boom-bap production, allowing the powerful rhymes of resilience, grief, and struggle to take center stage. M1’s prayer for peace, Solomane’s fierce mix, Sa-Roc’s rapid-fire delivery, Nejma Nefertiti’s lush verse, and Yasmeen Quintana’s soulful channeling of ancestral strength collectively deliver a unified message. It’s a raw, emotional, and timeless appeal for an end to civilian suffering in all war-zones, emphasizing the disproportionate impact on women and children.
Follow Solomane on Instagram.
Follow M1 on Spotify.
Built on jazz-inflected loops and smooth boom-bap beats, Brandon Mitchell’s ‘TGBNU’ (short for Too Good But Not Unreachable) radiates warmth, gratitude, and grounded optimism. This is a soulful burst of joy wrapped in chill-hop finesse and conscious lyricism. Known for his multifaceted artistry, Mitchell channels his dancer’s rhythm and actor’s depth into a musical message that uplifts without preaching. ‘TGBNU’ feels like a personal mantra and public affirmation, celebrating purpose, resilience, and the quiet power of gratitude. Whether studying, reflecting, or vibing out, this is the kind of track that makes you breathe deeper. Pure vibes with intentional soul.
Follow Brandon Mitchell on Instagram.
UK-born producer Jay Rilez sets the tone with lush sample chops and crisp drums, channeling the spirit of 90s icons like DJ Premier and J Dilla. ‘Rich Man’ is a soulful, boom-bap gem that radiates gratitude and ambition. Justo the MC rides the beat with smooth, reflective bars and an infectious hook, offering a refreshing slice of lyrical optimism. The transatlantic chemistry between Rilez and the Brooklyn wordsmith is undeniable, blending nostalgic textures with a modern edge. It’s a feel-good hip-hop anthem that celebrates purpose over profit. It’s timeless, honest, and effortlessly replayable.
Follow Jay Rilez on Instagram.
Follow Justo the MC on Spotify.
A vibrant fusion of jazz, hip-hop, and soulful reflection, ‘Ethiopian Coffee’ is a genre-blurring triumph from Cold Chinese Food, The Charles Géne Suite, and Sam Turpin. As the lead single from the upcoming Vital Ital album, the track sets the tone for a globe-trotting, culture-rich journey through sound. Built on warm horns, breezy instrumentation, and effortlessly introspective flows, it celebrates both musical kinship and personal legacy. Sam Turpin’s emotive verse, paired with the Suite’s organic instrumentation, creates a rich sonic tapestry that feels global yet deeply personal. ‘Ethiopian Coffee’ is an invitation to feel, to move, and to reflect.
Follow Cold Chinese Food on Instagram.
Follow The Charles Géne Suite on Instagram.
Follow Sam Turpin on Instagram.
Delivering raw energy and lyrical grit, Psalmx’s ‘Hollam’ is a bold fusion of trap and African hip-hop, featuring Dumomi The Jig. Psalmx commands attention with his crisp flow and confident delivery, channeling his Lagos roots and Kano upbringing into a vibrant sound. Dumomi The Jig adds depth with his smooth, versatile style, effortlessly balancing rap and melody. Their chemistry is undeniable, riding the beat with synergy and purpose. The production is polished yet gritty, making ‘Hollam’ both club-ready and introspective. This track confirms both artists as rising forces in Nigerian hip-hop, blending global sounds with local flavor to compelling effect.
Follow Psalmx on Instagram.
Follow Dumomi The Jig on Instagram.
Perfectly encapsulates a serene evening on the Seine river, Bajune Tobeta’s ‘Paris Night Cruise’ is a mellow, chilled, and laid-back sonic journey. The track effortlessly blends elements of alternative hip-hop and alt-pop with a sophisticated, jazzy undertone, a hallmark of Tobeta’s collaborations with artists like Ryuichi Sakamoto. Its understated beats and atmospheric textures create a truly transportive experience, evoking the romantic glow of Parisian lights reflecting on the water. It’s ideal for unwinding, providing a smooth, unhurried groove that soothes the mind and transports you to a tranquil, urban nocturne.
Follow Bajune Tobeta on Instagram.
PURPLE MELON 