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.
Stacy N.K.R and oakland strike gold with their debut collaboration ‘cosmetic’, a sleek, confident track that merges South-East London storytelling with lush, genre-blurring production. Stacy’s flow glides effortlessly over oakland’s rich soundscape, delivering affirmations of self-love and presence with poise. The upcoming Miami Vice-inspired visualiser, directed by d56k, will enhance the cinematic flair to its empowering message. With oakland’s mellow grime roots expanding into vibrant new territory and Stacy continuing her rise as a distinct voice in UK rap, ‘cosmetic’ feels both timely and timeless. It’s a bold introduction to a partnership that promises to push creative boundaries all summer long.
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‘WHY NOT’ is a masterclass in collaboration and production, delivering a glitchy, two-step banger that’s pure energy. MANSO̶U̶R̶’s track provides a perfect canvas for REEM and 00ab, who trade fire with a chemistry that’s both explosive and effortlessly cool. Their lyrical interplay on romance and late-night thrills is sharp and infectious, riding MANSO̶U̶R̶’s shimmering beat with style. The DIY visual adds to the track’s charm, capturing a spontaneous, vibrant energy that’s impossible to resist. This shows off MANSO̶U̶R̶’s knack for bringing together top-tier talent and crafting a sound that feels both fresh and timeless.
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Showcasing Stepz’s evolution as both an artist and a voice for his generation, his new track ‘Superhero’ is a bold, uplifting anthem. With an unexpected, vibrant production and a message rooted in faith, authenticity, and resilience, Stepz rejects distractions and delivers a focused, empowering performance. His lyrical conviction shines as he encourages inner-city youth to rise above adversity, embodying the spirit of a true role model. ‘Superhero’ cements this artist’s growth from digital star to respected musician, blending UK energy with global appeal. As part of the Good Influence EP, the track reinforces his mission to inspire and lead with purpose.
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‘Lucky’ is a lush and introspective R&B-rap collaboration between Haviah Mighty and Shantel May. The track, rooted in classic boom bap and live instrumentation, creates a soulful and laid-back vibe. Haviah’s signature confident flow and Shantel’s velvety vocals blend seamlessly, exploring the complexities of mutual appreciation in a relationship. The song delves into the paradox of feeling fortunate to have a partner while also longing for that gratitude to be reciprocated. It’s a beautifully produced and lyrically rich offering that showcases both artists’ immense talent and continues Haviah’s potent healing era.
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Jay Rilez and Justo the MC return with ‘E.O.T.’, a soulful, laid-back boom bap gem that solidifies their transatlantic chemistry. Following the success of Rich Man, this second single leans into warm sample chops, crisp drums, and mellow grooves that echo the golden era of hip-hop while feeling current and fresh. Justo’s storytelling is sharp and introspective, delivered with effortless flow over Jay’s smooth, head-nodding production. Perfect for summer drives or chill evenings, ‘E.O.T.’ captures the essence of soulful hip-hop with heart and depth. It’s another strong step in a promising collaboration that blends nostalgia with modern flair.
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Perfectly encapsulating Wappa’s raw energy and lyrical prowess, ‘Rainy Day In Downham’ is a potent dose of UK hip-hop. Over an ice-cold beat that sets a melancholic yet resilient tone, the rapper navigates the realities of his environment with unapologetic truth. His sharp wordplay paints vivid pictures of struggle and ambition, transforming personal narratives into universally resonant anthems. This track is a testament to the grind, a reflection of the come-up, and a powerful declaration of presence in the rap scene. ‘Rainy Day In Downham’ hits with purpose, proving Wappa is an artist whose music you truly feel.
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On his remarkable run of form, Christopha returns with the new single ‘Builder Phone’, a deeply personal track that further solidifies his place as a master storyteller. The rapper’s lyrical prowess is on full display as he reflects on life’s journey, using the metaphor of a “builder phone” to represent the foundational moments and relationships that truly matter. The soulful, jazzy production provides the perfect backdrop for his smooth, introspective flow. This latest release is another testament to Christopha’s consistent artistry and his commitment to crafting music that is both honest and profoundly resonant. We can’t wait to hear what’s next on this incredible journey.
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Over a cinematic pad and deep, bass-driven groove, the UK-based rapper Stony Boy delivers a gripping performance ‘Who Am I’. Blending old-school boom bap with sharp, self-affirming lyricism, this track is a bold, introspective anthem that asserts identity with unflinching clarity. Drawing from his Swazi and Greek Cypriot roots, Stony taps into themes of purpose, pride, and resilience, crafting a track that feels both personal and universally resonant. His flow is confident and deliberate, echoing the energy of classic hip-hop while adding a modern edge. ‘Who Am I’ is a declaration, marking another strong chapter in Stony’s journey.
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‘De Ja Vu’ is a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into Po Griff’s upcoming album I Collect Space Not Objects. Produced by Minas, the track blends UK hip-hop and trap with an ethereal, melancholic atmosphere that still manages to feel sunlit and raw. Po’s liminal lyricism, grounded in surreal imagery and emotional depth, floats over textured production that feels both futuristic and nostalgic. It’s introspective without being self-indulgent, layered without losing its edge. ‘De Ja Vu’ confirms Po Griff as a singular voice in UK rap, one that’s otherworldly yet deeply rooted. Expect the full album to further bend reality this October.
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Channelling golden-era hip-hop with fresh emotional weight, producer Chrome Waves and emcee AnaYor Chrome have come together for a soulful slice of UK boom-bap, titled ‘Back Again’. The producer lays down a lush, nostalgic backdrop built from dusty samples and live instrumentation, while AnaYor delivers reflective, heartfelt bars rooted in trauma, growth, and resilience. His flow is honest and grounded, making each line feel earned. The track’s emotional resonance and timeless production style give it a meditative quality. It’s equal parts therapy and throwback. ‘Back Again‘ is a reminder that healing can sound this good.
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PURPLE MELON 