Must-Hear Tracks from Emerging R&B and Hip-Hop Artists

As the music scene continues to evolve, emerging R&B and hip-hop artists are making waves with fresh sounds and innovative collaborations. This week, we spotlight some must-hear tracks that showcase the talent and creativity of artists like Moonchild and Raqbaby, alongside other rising stars.

Awards Season Highlights

The excitement in the music industry is palpable as awards season heats up. Just a week after the Caribbean Music Awards and the MTV Video Music Awards, the 77th Primetime Emmys celebrated the best in hip-hop and R&B. Notably, Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar, both nominated for outstanding variety special, took home accolades at the Primetime Creative Arts Emmys. Beyoncé snagged her first Emmy for outstanding costumes for her Netflix-hosted halftime show, while Lamar added another trophy for outstanding music direction.

In addition to the Emmys, Cardi B hosted a pop-up event in NYC to promote her upcoming album, Am I the Drama?, while The Carters attended the REFORM Alliance Casino Night Gala. Wyclef Jean also wrapped up a genre-fusing residency at the Blue Note Jazz Café, further highlighting the vibrant landscape of contemporary music.

Fresh Picks of the Week

Billboard’s Fresh Picks aims to highlight the best new sounds in R&B and hip-hop. This week’s playlist features a mix of established names and emerging talents, ensuring listeners have a diverse selection of tracks to explore.

Moonchild feat. Jill Scott & Rapsody – “Not Sorry”

Kicking off our list is the enchanting collaboration “Not Sorry” by Moonchild, featuring the legendary Jill Scott and Rapsody. This track encapsulates the essence of self-empowerment, with Amber Navran’s smooth vocals delivering a cheeky message about prioritizing self-interest over a selfish lover. Rapsody’s wise verse adds depth, making this one of the year’s standout R&B collaborations.

Raqbaby – “DoorDash (OMG)”

Raqbaby takes listeners on a wild ride in the chaotic visual for “DoorDash (OMG).” The Chicago-born artist transitions from food delivery to more devilish antics, reflecting on his past struggles while maintaining a humorous tone. His twitchy flow and candid lyrics about contemplating suicide juxtapose the high-energy vibe of his latest project, I NEVER GAVE AF.

Mobb Deep – “Against the World”

The late Prodigy’s voice resonates once more in Mobb Deep’s upcoming album, Infinite, set to drop on October 10. The lead single “Against the World,” produced by Havoc and The Alchemist, promises to deliver the gritty essence that fans have missed since Prodigy’s passing. This track is a nostalgic reminder of Mobb Deep’s impact on hip-hop.

4batz & FLO – “act xvi: twentyfoe7”

London-based girl group FLO teams up with 4batz on “act xvi: twentyfoe7,” a smooth contemporary R&B track that captures the highs and lows of romantic connections. The interplay between the artists highlights the push-and-pull of love, while the sultry production enhances the emotional depth of the song.

Connie Diiamond – “Breathe”

Bronx MC Connie Diiamond returns with “Breathe,” a standout track from her Underdog SZN 2 project. Over a beat reminiscent of mid-2000s hip-hop, Connie showcases her New York swagger and braggadocio, delivering slick verses that resonate with confidence and style.

Coi Leray & BKTHERULA feat. G Herbo – “Pink Money”

Coi Leray’s latest track “Pink Money” marks a new era for the artist, who draws inspiration from her recent journey into motherhood. Featuring BKTHERULA and G Herbo, the song is a fierce anthem about financial independence and empowerment, capturing Coi’s relentless drive to succeed.

KP SKYWALKA – “Industry”

KP SKYWALKA’s “Industry” serves as the intro to his latest album, I Tried to Tell You. The track features a sample from the classic “A Thin Line Between Love & Hate,” while KP’s clever wordplay and sharp delivery make it a compelling listen.

Trevor Jackson – “One Foot In”

Trevor Jackson leans into soulful R&B with “One Foot In,” a track that explores the complexities of love and commitment. With smooth melodies and candid lyrics, Jackson captures the frustration of navigating a relationship filled with mixed signals, making this song both relatable and intimate.

BIA & Key Glock – “Dade”

BIA kicks off the rollout for her debut album, BIANCA, with the hard-hitting track “Dade.” Featuring Key Glock, this energetic anthem showcases BIA’s lyrical prowess and sets the stage for what’s to come in her upcoming project.

These tracks not only highlight the talent of emerging artists but also reflect the dynamic nature of the R&B and hip-hop genres. As the music landscape continues to shift, these artists are paving the way for new sounds and stories that resonate with audiences everywhere.