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Tag: hit songs

  • French Montana’s Verzuz Win: Confidence Pays Off

    Remember when French Montana confidently declared he could go head-to-head with Kendrick Lamar in a Verzuz battle? While it sounded bold at the time, his recent performance against Rick Ross in the popular music battle series suggests that his confidence might have had more merit than initially thought, especially when viewed through the unique lens of Verzuz mechanics.

    French Montana’s Unique Appeal

    French Montana has carved out a unique space in hip-hop, often characterized by his ability to tap into trends and create anthems perfect for specific environments – think gym speakers, party playlists, or group sing-alongs. His music resonates deeply with a particular audience and era, making him a nostalgic figure for many.

    While his solo artistic output might sometimes be overshadowed by his collaborations and knack for features, French has a proven track record of delivering memorable moments. Tracks like “Lockjaw” (with Kodak Black) and “Unforgettable” (with Swae Lee) highlight how collaborations have often amplified his reach and success.

    The Verzuz Showdown with Rick Ross

    Entering the Verzuz battle against Rick Ross, a formidable opponent with a deep catalog, French Montana’s earlier claim about Kendrick Lamar was put to the test. While Kendrick and French operate in different musical spheres, French’s argument was that his collection of anthems could stand tall against hip-hop giants.

    Against Ross, who had previously bested 2 Chainz in a Verzuz, French’s catalog proved surprisingly robust. Although the battle felt collaborative at times, with many shared musical touches, French ultimately emerged victorious. A significant portion of his strongest moments came from collaborations and remixes, such as Ferg’s “Work,” Bobby Shmurda’s “Hot N****a,” and his own hits like “Lockjaw” and “Unforgettable.”

    Strengths in Hooks and Moments

    The author notes that while Rick Ross often delivers complete, structurally sound songs and impactful solo verses, French Montana’s strength lies in his hooks and creating undeniable “moments.” Even a brief 30-second French Montana feature can pack a punch, sometimes more so than a fully developed solo track.

    The Verzuz stage provided the perfect platform to showcase these strengths, emphasizing the importance of sequencing and presentation. The battle highlighted that French Montana’s catalog, while perhaps different in structure from Ross’s or Lamar’s, carries significant weight for his dedicated audience and represents a specific, influential era in hip-hop.

    Do you agree that French Montana’s catalog has more weight than people give it credit for? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

  • BIA’s 5 Biggest Hits & Collaborations

    Cardi B’s viral lyric, ‘Name five BIA songs, gun pointin’ to your head,’ sparked a conversation about recognition in the rap game, particularly for women. While the comment was designed to sting, it also highlighted a curiosity about BIA’s actual musical achievements. Her career, built steadily from the margins, includes memorable verses, chart success, and significant collaborations that have solidified her place in the industry.

    Crafting a Career: From Sisterhood to Chart Success

    BIA’s journey began on ‘Sisterhood of Hip Hop’ and continued as a writer and featured artist, notably signed to Pharrell Williams. Hailing from Boston with Puerto Rican and Italian heritage, her cool, low-toned voice offers a distinct presence in hip-hop. While not always flashy, her calculated collaborations have been key to her rise, including a breakout verse on Russ’s ‘Best On Earth,’ a chart-climbing remix with Nicki Minaj, and a notable feature with J. Cole.

    This list celebrates five of BIA’s most impactful songs and collaborations, showcasing her ability to make noise, move numbers, and capture new fans, whether you’re already familiar with her catalog or just discovering her talent.

    BIA’s Top 5 Tracks:

    1. **1. ‘Whole Lotta Money (Remix)’ Ft. Nicki Minaj (2021):** This collaboration was a game-changer, turning BIA’s original track into a summer anthem. Nicki Minaj’s verse propelled the song to No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking BIA’s first chart entry, and has since garnered over 170 million streams. The track’s viral TikTok moment, with the line ‘I put on my jewelry just to go to the bodega,’ further cemented its cultural impact.
    2. **2. ‘London’ With J. Cole (2022):** Featured on her ‘Really Her’ project, this track showcased BIA’s ability to hold her own against J. Cole. The minimalist, UK-Drill-influenced beat provided a smooth backdrop for both artists. Cole’s verse, delivered in a British accent, went viral, but it was BIA’s consistent, signature tone that anchored the record, subtly reversing the usual dynamic where male artists adapt to her sound.
    3. **3. ‘Best On Earth’ (Russ Feat. BIA) (2019):** Rihanna’s Instagram post lip-syncing to this track sparked widespread attention for BIA. Though officially Russ’s song, BIA’s calm, confident verse became the standout moment, leading to the track peaking at No. 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 and eventually going Platinum. This collaboration marked her arrival as an artist with a unique pocket.
    4. **4. ‘Cover Girl’ (2020):** From her ‘For Certain’ EP, this track is perhaps BIA’s most distilled. Without features or an algorithm-driven hook, her low, unfazed vocal stylings create a luxurious, closed-door atmosphere. The song became a slow-burn anthem in beauty and streetwear circles, with TikTok clips and Instagram influencers syncing it to their content.
    5. **5. ‘Skate’ (2020):** Released on the deluxe version of ‘For Certain,’ ‘Skate’ finds BIA at full momentum. The hard-hitting beat and direct lyrics, like ‘If we talking ’bout these levels, I’m the highest in my rank,’ showcase her unadorned style. While it didn’t hit mainstream charts, ‘Skate’ became a fan favorite in underground circles and playlist rotations, proving BIA’s ability to carry a track without needing external validation.

    BIA’s catalog proves her hustle hasn’t slowed, with records that have landed in rotation and made a lasting impression. Her career is a testament to staying true to her unique sound and vision, earning her a dedicated fanbase and significant industry recognition.

    Which of these BIA tracks is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!