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Tag: DJ Premier

  • New Music Friday: 50 Hip-Hop & R&B Releases to Stream

    It’s Friday, and that means it’s time to refresh your playlists! This week’s New Music Friday is packed with incredible releases from some of the biggest names in Hip-Hop, R&B, reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeats. Get ready to dive into a diverse collection of sounds perfect for your weekend unwind.

    Must-Hear Albums and Singles

    Leading the charge is Chris Brown with his new album ‘BROWN,’ promising his signature blend of R&B and Hip-Hop. Kelela drops the intriguing single ‘linknb,’ while the girl group FLO offers ‘Therapy At The Club,’ perfect for your next night out. Teyana Taylor and Wale team up for ‘Bed Of Roses,’ a collaboration fans have been waiting for.

    Action Bronson serves up his latest project, ‘Planet Frog,’ while the enigmatic PinkPantheress releases ‘Girl Like Me.’ 6LACK and Young Thug connect on the track ‘Ashin the Blunt,’ and French Montana, Max B, and Rick Ross bring the heat with ‘Smoking Pt. 2.’

    More Hip-Hop Heat

    T.I. reclaims his throne with ‘MR HIM,’ and Key Glock keeps the momentum going with ‘Go.’ DJ Premier and The Alchemist join forces for ‘FOR THE GIG,’ a must-listen for any true hip-hop head. Anderson .Paak features DEAN on ‘Aftertaste,’ and Little Simz shares ‘Sugar Girl.’

    Durand Bernarr brings the soulful vibes with ‘Am I Okay?!’, while Young Nudy drops ‘Ya Dig.’ Veterans 38 Spesh and Method Man collaborate on ‘The Main Line,’ and Tank and The Bangas feature David Shaw and Austin Brown on ‘Nighttime.’

    Diverse Sounds and Debut Projects

    The Womack Sisters offer ‘Chauffer,’ Lelo presents his project ‘Mastiff,’ and Cash Cobain drops ‘I Wanna Rock.’ ROE delivers ‘Body,’ while AZ returns with his album ‘Doe or Die III.’ DDG’s ‘Top Of The Hill’ and Fat Nwigwe’s ‘QUEEN’ are also making waves.

    Deante’ Hitchcock’s ‘Junkie in The Sun,’ YG Kayboe featuring Finesse 2Tymes on ‘By The Way,’ and Black Fortune’s ‘Road To Osshland: The Series’ add to the rich tapestry of releases. Don’t miss Hil St Soul’s ‘Nasalifya (Thank You),’ HotBlock Jmoe featuring Jacquees on ‘I Will,’ and JPEGMAFIA’s ‘War Over Land.’

    From Trap to Afrobeats

    Trap Dickey’s ‘The Ville,’ YG Marley’s ‘FIYAH,’ and Flyana Boss’s ‘FEELIN IT’ are set to dominate playlists. Lancey Foux drops ‘BODY,’ Armani White presents ‘[PRESS],’ and Young Chris, MadeinTYO featuring Freeway deliver ‘Too Strong.’ LP Trim’s ‘Coconut Water,’ Naomi Sharon’s ‘Better Days,’ and okay coleman!’s ‘Let Me Go’ offer a variety of vibes.

    Myles Smith’s ‘Hold Me In The Dark,’ Ovrkast.’s ‘Play This,’ and BigWalkDog’s ‘Forehead’ are also noteworthy. Terri Lyne Carrington + Social Science featuring Ledisi and others on ‘Autonomy Song,’ Uncle Waffles & Royal MusiQ’s ‘4 DA STREETS,’ and KB’s ‘Left Hand’ showcase the breadth of talent.

    Rounding out the list are Sam Pounds featuring Family Company on ‘Queen,’ Jawan featuring SIS on ‘Always On My Mind,’ and DreamDoll’s ‘Too Established/Maybelline.’ This extensive lineup ensures there’s something for every music lover.

    Which of these new releases are you adding to your playlist first? Let us know your top picks in the comments below!

  • 12 Hip-Hop Albums That Defined 2025

    Hip-Hop in 2025 was a dynamic force, shaped by elevation, anticipation, and the vibrant cultural conversations happening everywhere from social media to group chats. This year saw new artists emerge as stars and veterans deliver long-awaited projects, all while navigating complex storylines and historical milestones. These albums didn’t just entertain; they drove discourse and will undoubtedly stand as the genre’s most enduring statements. Here are the 12 albums that defined Hip-Hop in 2025.

    Global Reach and Chart Domination

    1. **‘Can’t Rush Greatness’ – Central Cee:** This debut studio album became a timely release, proving Hip-Hop’s global reach. As the first UK Hip-hop album to debut in the Top 10 of Billboard charts, it shattered doubts about British rappers’ stateside success and marked Central Cee’s full embrace by the culture.
    2. **‘Vie’ – Doja Cat:** Doja Cat returned with her fifth studio album, confidently fusing pop instincts with sharp lyricism. ‘Vie’ showcased a more focused balance between melody and bars, reinforcing her versatility and status as a formidable dual threat in music.
    3. **‘God Does Like Ugly’ – JID:** Anchored by multiple versions of this critically acclaimed album, JID delivered another dense collection of intricate stanzas and poignant couplets. Earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album, it marked his highest chart debut to date.
    4. **‘Alfredo 2’ – Freddie Gibbs:** Freddie Gibbs continued to solidify his status as a flagbearer for unfiltered, street-level testimonials. Reuniting with The Alchemist, the sequel delivered vivid narratives and precise rapping that felt both seasoned and urgent, hailed by many as another masterpiece.
    5. **‘Don’t Tap The Glass’ – Tyler, The Creator:** A pleasant surprise, this impromptu release made a massive impact. Tapping into the free-wheeling spirit of his earlier work, Tyler reaffirmed his status as an elite lyricist and visionary curator.
    6. **‘$ome $exy $ongs 4 U’ – Drake, PartyNextDoor:** This collaboration was framed by Drake’s highly publicized 2024 back-and-forth. Songs like “Gimme A Hug” and “Nokia” confirmed his ability to dominate the airwaves, with subtle barbs aimed at his rival adding intrigue.
    7. **‘Light-Years’ – Nas & DJ Premier:** Fulfilling a three-decade promise, this full-length collaboration cemented one of Hip-hop’s most revered partnerships. Serving as a 15-track ode to Hip-hop, its highlights far outweigh any blemishes.
    8. **‘I Hope You’re Happy’ – BigXthaPlug:** Expanding his sound with country-infused collaborations featuring artists like Luke Combs and Jelly Roll, this project debuted at No. 2 on Billboard’s Country chart, elevating his profile.
    9. **‘Am I The Drama?’ – Cardi B:** Ending a long anticipation period, Cardi B’s sophomore album found her as fiery and unfiltered as ever. It reaffirms her claim as the Queen of Rap, tackling public sparring and personal life with unapologetic bluntness.
    10. **‘MASA’ – YoungBoy Never Broke Again:** This album emerged as a watershed moment in YoungBoy’s prolific catalog. Supported by a major arena tour, ‘MASA’ solidified his status as one of the most electrifying and popular voices in Hip-hop.
    11. **‘MUSIC’ – Playboi Carti:** Arriving nearly four years after ‘Whole Lotta Red,’ this long-awaited project solidified Playboi Carti’s ascension into the upper stratosphere of modern cultural figures.
    12. **‘Let God Sort Em Out’ – Clipse:** The legendary duo returned after over 15 years with a reunion album already deemed a masterpiece. Featuring production from Pharrell Williams and guest appearances from Kendrick Lamar, Tyler, the Creator, and Nas, it served as a cultural moment and a reminder of timeless beats and lyricism.

    The Sound of 2025

    These albums represent a diverse spectrum of Hip-Hop in 2025, from the global ambitions of Central Cee and the genre-bending artistry of Doja Cat and BigXthaPlug, to the lyrical prowess of JID and Freddie Gibbs. Veterans like Nas, DJ Premier, and Clipse proved their enduring relevance, while artists like Tyler, The Creator and Drake continued to innovate and command attention.

    YoungBoy Never Broke Again’s ‘MASA’ and Playboi Carti’s ‘MUSIC’ highlighted the power of consistent output and dedicated fan bases, while Cardi B’s ‘Am I The Drama?’ delivered the unfiltered energy fans expect. Collectively, these projects showcase Hip-Hop’s ability to adapt, reflect the times, and continue pushing creative boundaries.

    Which of these albums defined 2025 for you? Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Nas & DJ Premier Announce “Light-Years” Album

    Get ready, hip-hop heads! The legendary duo Nas and DJ Premier have just dropped some major news about their highly anticipated joint album. Taking to Instagram today, November 25, they unveiled the project’s title and confirmed its release date, sending waves of excitement through the music community.

    Introducing “Light-Years”

    The upcoming album is officially titled “Light-Years.” Nas and Premier not only revealed the name but also shared the striking cover art. Mark your calendars, because this project is set to drop on December 12, released under Mass Appeal Records. Fans have been eagerly awaiting this collaboration, and the wait is almost over!

    The release of “Light-Years” is particularly significant as it marks the conclusion of the “Legend Has It” series. This acclaimed series has already blessed fans with new music from other iconic artists like Slick Rick, Ghostface Killah, and Raekwon, celebrating the enduring legacy of foundational hip-hop artists.

    A Nod to Hip-Hop’s Golden Era

    Nas spoke about the “Legend Has It” series in a recent interview with Rolling Stone, emphasizing its purpose: “This series is to encourage [and] inspire hip hop and remind us all [of] the pureness of hip hop.” He drew parallels between the current music scene and the golden age, noting, “It’s 1995 all over again… It’s that feeling of urgency, that vibration, the celebration of life and these songs and these albums, what they meant 30 years ago, it’s still thriving right now.”

    He further elaborated on the influence of artists from that era, stating, “And these artists here, from Slick Rick — he is the reason that all of us even have a pen in our hands.” Nas highlighted how artists like Mobb Deep, Raekwon, Ghostface, and De La Soul created “different, brave, bold, intelligent hip hop music” that continues to inspire. He also paid tribute to the artists who have passed, emphasizing that their legacy lives on through the music and the series, serving as a constant reminder to aim higher.

    Anticipation is High

    With Nas and DJ Premier, two undisputed titans of hip-hop, joining forces for “Light-Years,” the anticipation is palpable. This collaboration promises to deliver the authentic, impactful sound that fans have come to expect from both artists, celebrating the rich history and vibrant future of the genre.

    Are you excited for Nas and DJ Premier’s “Light-Years” album? What are your favorite collaborations between these two legends? Let us know in the comments!

  • DJ Premier & Nas Album Drops December 12!

    Fans have been waiting for this moment for decades, and the wait is almost over! Legendary producer DJ Premier has officially revealed the release date for his highly anticipated collaborative album with hip-hop icon Nas. Get ready, because it’s dropping soon!

    The Big Reveal: December 12th!

    While it was previously hinted that the album would arrive in December as part of Nas’ “Legend Has It” series, a concrete date remained elusive. That all changed last night during a world tour stop in Bristol, England. During a show with The Alchemist, DJ Premier took a moment to hype up the crowd and share the exciting news.

    In a clip shared online, Premier asked the audience, “How many people are ready for that Nas Premier album?” He then declared, “December 12 get ready motherf*cker,” before launching into one of his classic beats. This announcement marks a significant moment for rap fans, capping off a strong year of releases.

    Closing Out the ‘Legend Has It’ Series

    This collaboration will serve as the final installment in Nas’ “Legend Has It” series, created with his Mass Appeal imprint. The series has already featured a posthumous project from Big L and is about to release De La Soul’s highly anticipated album, “Cabin In The Sky,” which boasts 20 tracks and lead singles like “Day In The Sun” and “The Package.”

    The Nas and DJ Premier tape also has a potential teaser cut, “Define My Name,” which was released on digital streaming platforms back in April 2024. Given the incredible quality of other albums released this year, including contributions from legends like Raekwon, Slick Rick, Ghostface Killah, and Mobb Deep, the pressure is on for Nas and Premier to deliver something truly exceptional.

    December 12 get ready motherf*cker — DJ Premier

    However, if any duo has the pedigree to outdo other GOATs in the game, it’s these two titans of hip-hop. Their combined history and undeniable chemistry promise a release that fans won’t want to miss.

    Are you excited for the DJ Premier and Nas album? What are your favorite collaborations from either artist? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • New Music Friday: 25 Hip-Hop Releases

    Ready to refresh your playlist? This New Music Friday is packed with incredible drops from some of the biggest names and exciting newcomers in hip-hop. Whether you’re looking for hard-hitting bars, smooth melodies, or classic vibes, there’s something here for everyone.

    Must-Hear Albums and Tracks

    From chart-toppers to legendary crews, the new releases are set to dominate your weekend listening. Get ready to dive into new projects from artists like Lil Baby, Danny Brown, Ken Carson, the iconic De La Soul, Jim Jones, and the legendary DJ Premier alongside Ransom.

    This curated list ensures you won’t miss out on the essential sounds of the week. We’ve rounded up 25 of the most noteworthy releases, perfect for adding to your weekend rotation.

    Featured Releases

    • Lil Baby – “Try To Love”
    • Danny Brown – ‘Stardust’
    • Ken Carson – “Catastrophe”
    • De La Soul – “The Package”
    • Jim Jones – ‘The Fall Before The Rise’
    • DJ Premier & Ransom – ‘The Reinvention’
    • JT – “Girls Gone Wild”
    • G Herbo – ‘Lil Herb’
    • Quavo, Yeat, BNYX – “New Trip”
    • Bun B, Cory Mo – ‘Way Mo Trill’
    • Erick Sermon, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, Rico Barrino – “Like That”
    • 1900Rugrat – ‘Big Ah Kidz’
    • Lola Brooke – “Get Money”
    • Young Miko – ‘Do Not Disturb’
    • Russ – “Stay”
    • Boldy James, Nicholas Craven – “Infrared Dot Com”
    • Armand Hammer, The Alchemist – ‘Mercy’
    • MARCO PLUS Featuring Boldy James – “Jamal Crawford”
    • Nappy Roots, 808Blake, Trinidad James – ‘Chitlin Circuit’
    • The Twilite Tone Featuring Common, Madison McFerrin – “I Still Need Love 2”
    • Bay Swag Featuring Zeddy Will
    • Reason – ‘Everything In My Soul_BLUE’
    • VisionPlay – ‘The VZN SZN Disc 1’
    • BunnaB – ‘Sweet Lick’
    • Valee & MVW Featuring Niontay – “Yea I Do”

    A Diverse Soundscape

    This week’s releases showcase the incredible diversity within hip-hop. From the soulful sounds of Lil Baby and the experimental beats of Danny Brown to the enduring legacy of De La Soul and the raw energy of Jim Jones, there’s a track for every mood. Collaborations like DJ Premier and Ransom’s ‘The Reinvention’ and the star-studded ‘New Trip’ by Quavo, Yeat, and BNYX are sure to be highlights.

    Don’t miss out on these fresh sounds. Whether you’re a longtime fan of these artists or looking to discover your next favorite rapper, this New Music Friday has you covered. Happy listening!

    Which of these new hip-hop releases are you most excited to hear? Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below!

  • DJ Premier Slams Funeral Privacy Violations

    The recent passing of R&B legend D’Angelo has deeply saddened the music world. While fans and friends gathered to celebrate his life at his homegoing service on November 1st, legendary producer DJ Premier has spoken out about a disappointing aspect of the event: the violation of privacy by some attendees.

    A Request for Privacy Ignored

    D’Angelo, whose real name is Michael Eugene Archer, passed away at the age of 51 after a private battle with pancreatic cancer. His funeral was held at Saint Paul’s Baptist Church in Henrico, Virginia. According to DJ Premier, attendees were required to complete an application and receive approval to enter the service. Crucially, a clear rule was communicated: no photos, videos, or social media posts were permitted to maintain privacy during this sensitive time.

    However, this request was not universally respected. DJ Premier shared his dismay in a now-viral video, noting how quickly photos, funeral programs, and even videos from the cemetery began circulating online. “Fake Love Is Even At Your Funeral,” he stated, expressing his disappointment that the family’s wishes were disregarded.

    Premier’s Frustration and D’Angelo’s Legacy

    Premier detailed the strict entry process, emphasizing that the privacy request was explicitly stated before approval. “People are running amuck all over there posting sh-t, the program, even the cemetery,” he lamented. Despite this violation, he acknowledged that the service itself was deeply moving and offered his condolences to D’Angelo’s family.

    He concluded his remarks with a heartfelt tribute: “Salute to his whole family who was amazing… Michael Eugene Archer, we love you. D’Angelo forever, man. Into infinity.”

    Debate Over Public Grief and Privacy

    DJ Premier’s comments have sparked a broader discussion about the tension between public figures and their right to privacy, especially during deeply personal moments like funerals. Some commenters questioned Premier’s own stance, pointing out that he appeared in a photo taken during the service, which they felt contradicted his message. This raises the complex question of where the line should be drawn between honoring a public figure and respecting their private moments.

    What are your thoughts on respecting privacy at funerals for public figures? Should social media be off-limits during homegoing services? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • DJ Premier Slams Funeral Sharers

    Hip-hop legend DJ Premier is calling out attendees of the late neo-soul artist D’Angelo’s funeral for violating the family’s privacy. After a private service was held on November 1st in Virginia, Premier took to social media to express his outrage over people posting photos, videos, and even the location of the gravesite, despite explicit requests for privacy.

    A Violation of Trust

    D’Angelo, who sadly passed away from pancreatic cancer, was laid to rest in a service where the family had made it clear they wanted everything kept private. Attendees were asked not to film or share any content publicly. Sadly, Premier was disappointed to see images and posts circulating online that revealed details of the service, including the program and footage from the cemetery.

    Premier, known for his work with Gang Starr, felt compelled to speak out, stating, “I thought it wasn’t my place to say this, but I really love D’Angelo, so it is my place to say this.” He highlighted that attendees had to apply and be approved to attend, with a clear instruction at the bottom of the application: ‘Please don’t post, please don’t film. And let’s keep it private for the viewing and the service.’

    ‘Fake Love’ at the Funeral

    The producer of D’Angelo’s hit “Devil’s Pie” expressed his deep disappointment, calling the actions of those who posted “sick sh**.” He lamented, “People are running amok all over there, and they’re posting shit, posting the program with the whole service, and even the cemetery, like sick sh**, that shows that fake love is even at your funeral, man, but it is what it is.”

    While Premier acknowledged that people could talk about the funeral, he stressed that it was wrong to violate the family’s trust by disregarding their request for privacy. He concluded by offering his salutes to D’Angelo’s family, praising his kids, brothers, and everyone who shared his history.

    A Final Farewell

    Premier ended his message with a heartfelt tribute to the singer, whose real name was Michael Eugene Archer. “Michael Eugene Archer, we love you, my dude, D’Angelo. Forever, man. And to Infinity, you already know the love is real over here.” The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting privacy, especially during times of grief.

    What are your thoughts on DJ Premier’s criticism? Is it ever okay to share details from a private funeral service? Let us know in the comments below!

  • D’Angelo’s Iconic Hip-Hop Collaborations

    The music world was deeply saddened by the passing of Michael Eugene Archer, famously known as D’Angelo, on October 14, 2025. Revered as a visionary and a pioneer of the neo-soul movement, D’Angelo’s influence extended far beyond R&B. His unique talent for blending soulful vocals, masterful instrumentation, and an enigmatic mystique also played a crucial role in shaping numerous Hip-Hop classics.

    A Bridge Between Genres

    Despite releasing only three studio albums in thirty years, D’Angelo’s impact is undeniable. Often compared to Prince for his vocal prowess, instrumental skills, and captivating aura, D’Angelo forged his own distinct path. While he ushered in the neo-soul era, his contributions to Hip-Hop are equally significant, though often understated. Whether lending his voice to hooks, contributing to production, or bringing artists into his sonic world, D’Angelo was a true ally and asset to the Hip-Hop culture.

    In honor of his legacy, VIBE looks back at some of D’Angelo’s most memorable Hip-Hop moments and collaborations that continue to resonate.

    Early Hip-Hop Connections

    D’Angelo’s foray into Hip-Hop began early in his career. His hit song “Lady” received a remix featuring Brooklyn lyricist AZ, with beats crafted by DJ Premier. This remix offered a distinct boom-bap sound, a departure from the smoother original, showcasing D’Angelo’s versatility.

    He also contributed to GZA’s 1995 album *Liquid Swords*, adding his signature riffs to the “Cold World (Remix)” versions alongside Inspectah Deck. In 1996, D’Angelo collaborated with The Roots on “The Hypnotic” from their album *Illadelph Halflife*, providing subtle yet essential vocal contributions and production elements that enhanced the track’s hazy groove.

    The Soulquarians Era and Beyond

    The late ’90s and early 2000s saw D’Angelo become a central figure in the Soulquarians collective, leading to significant Hip-Hop collaborations. He worked with DJ Premier again on “Devil’s Pie” for the *Belly* soundtrack, a track that later appeared on his own masterpiece, *Voodoo*. His collaboration with Method Man on “Breakups 2 Makeups” (from Method Man’s *Tical 2000: Judgement Day*) blended D’Angelo’s smooth vocals with Meth’s sharp lyricism.

    The *Voodoo* album itself featured a standout track, “Left & Right,” with Method Man and Redman, showcasing incredible chemistry. D’Angelo also lent his vocals to Slum Village’s “Tell Me” from *Fantastic, Vol. 2*, and later collaborated with Common and J Dilla on the timeless track “So Far To Go,” continuing a creative bond forged on Common’s *Like Water For Chocolate*.

    Continued Influence Across Generations

    D’Angelo’s influence continued to span generations and artists. He added his signature touch to Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre’s “Imagine,” providing a smooth counterpoint to the gritty production. He also reunited with Q-Tip for “I Believe” on Q-Tip’s album *The Renaissance*, a full-circle moment given D’Angelo’s earlier work on keys for A Tribe Called Quest.

    More recently, he graced Rapsody’s *Eve* album with his presence on “Ibtihaj,” featuring GZA, offering a unique twist on a Wu-Tang classic. His final major Hip-Hop collaboration came with JAY-Z and Jeymes Samuel on “I Want You Forever” from *The Book of Clarence* soundtrack, a vibrant track that highlighted his enduring musical power.

    Which of D’Angelo’s Hip-Hop collaborations is your favorite? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below!

  • Jill Scott, DJ Premier, The Alchemist Pay Tribute to D’Angelo

    The music community is in mourning following the tragic news of R&B icon D’Angelo’s passing at the age of 51. After a private battle with pancreatic cancer, the legendary artist has left behind an indelible legacy. Fans and peers alike have taken to social media to share heartfelt tributes, celebrating his life and profound impact on music.

    Tributes from Music Icons

    Esteemed artists such as Jill Scott, DJ Premier, and The Alchemist have shared their grief and admiration for D’Angelo. DJ Premier expressed his sadness, writing, “Such a sad loss to the passing of D’angelo. We have so many great times. Gonna miss you so much. Sleep Peacefully D’ Love You KING.” Jill Scott tweeted her condolences, stating, “I told you a long time ago-You ain’t gon understand everything & everything ain’t meant 4 U ,nor I, to understand. I never met D’Angelo but I love him, respect him, admire his gift. This loss HURTS!! Love to my family that are family to him. I’m so sorry. R.I.P. GENIUS.”

    Other notable figures, including Marc Lamont Hill, Flavor Flav, Tyler, The Creator, Nile Rodgers, Doja Cat, and Missy Elliott, have also shared touching tributes, reflecting the widespread respect and admiration D’Angelo commanded within the industry. Marc Lamont Hill shared, “My sources tell me that D’Angelo has passed. Wow. I have no words. May he rest in perfect peace.”

    A Legacy of Soulful Music

    D’Angelo’s family confirmed his passing in an emotional statement to Variety, requesting privacy during their time of mourning. “The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life,” the statement read. “After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today, October 14th, 2025.”

    The family expressed their gratitude for the “legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind” and asked for respect for their privacy while inviting the public to join in celebrating his life and the gift of his songs. D’Angelo’s contributions to R&B and soul music have left an enduring mark, influencing generations of artists and fans.

    What are your favorite D’Angelo songs or memories? Share your tributes in the comments below to honor his incredible legacy.