The 10 best new rap songs right now
Featuring Lil Uzi Vert, Megan Thee Stallion, Black Fortune, TeeZandos, YG Teck, and more.
Lil Uzi Vert - "Silly Watch"
Eternal Atake is finally here and it's lined with a myriad of moments that prove exactly why Lil Uzi Vert sits atop the Soundcloud Rap generation. There are emotional bursts, anime-inspired skits, and enough braggadocio to hold you for eternity. But nothing quite slaps the way "Silly Watch" does, a song that joins supreme shit-talking and production that sounds like you're being chased by a video game villain.
YG Teck- "Back Jamming"
West Baltimore's YG Teck has been absolutely possessed for the past 2.5 years, with a number of projects and viral freestyles that have been on heavy rotation in his home region. Last week he continued that streak with a new tape, Eyes Won't Close 2. The 14-track project is full of standouts, but this is the one I can't stop running.
Megan Thee Stallion, f. Gunna- "Stop Playing"
More harmonies from the H-Town Hottie please!!!
Black Fortune- "Nothing To Lose"
Black Fortune has one of the most versatile set of skills in all of the DMV. He can rage, he can make regional anthems, and can carry a tune pretty damn well when he feels like it. This recent single of the Maryland native is a great example of the latter.
TeeZandos- "Highlander"
TeeZandos is shaping up to be my favorite girl from the Uk's drill scene. She consistently burns down every beat she comes in contact with, but this latest track of hers hits on a different level.
ZelooperZ - Vivienne No Fendi
ZelooperZ has been making music as far back as 2013, first appearing as a guest feature on the Danny Brown’s “Kush Coma.” A member of the Detroit-based Bruiser Brigade, the 26-year old rapper has more recently collaborated with Earl Sweatshirt. Over the past few months he has been steadily releasing lo-fi videos that are cut eerily to match his music — disjointed with a palpable bounce. The “purchase your tracks today,” tag on “Vivienne no Fendi,” will make it feel like you’re watching a stolen video.- Will Gendron
Key! - Sugar and Rice
Every few months or so someone points out that Key! deserves more recognition than he actually has. It’s a fair point but it shouldn’t distract you from the fact that the Atlanta legend still releases good music on his own terms. Right now it seems his penchant for making cabana-bar music has not died down since the release of So Emotional. “Sugar and Rice,” should be played on rooftops across the country this summer granted we will be able to go outside by then. - Will Gendron
Gunna- SKYBOX
Gunna makes me feel so elegant.
Cadenza, f. Ms Banks & Spice- Walk Out
UK dancehall producer Cadenza cheffed up the type of collab that I dream of, where rap and dancehall coexist seamlessly. This one meshes the powers of British rap star Ms Banks with the queen of dancehall, Spice. Good luck trying to stay still when you listen to it.
SL & Pa Salieu- Hit The Block
A creepy banger from two of the UK's most promising youngsters.