Rapsody ‘Ibtihaj’ screenshot | YouTube
Carnival is coming, the sun is shining and, in truth, it’s hard to concentrate on anything that’s not soca. But we’ll get to those tunes later this weekend. For now, let’s focus on tracks that dropped this week – though I will say now, in this house there will be no discussing the London Boy song.
Here’s your five on it, highlighting that women in rap really are the strongest link right now.
Rapsody – Eve
Without wishing to be melodramatic, Rapsody using her latest album as a vessel through which to celebrate the black women who have inspired her is enough to make me cry as a concept alone. It’s so so good, with tracks about everyone from Egyptian queens to Oprah Winfrey to Aaliyah to Serena Williams to Ibtihaj Muhammad, plus features from the likes of Leikeli 47 and Mereba. It’s lyrically versatile and powerful, the beats are innovative and fascinating and her delivery is, as ever, next level. [Full album here]
Missy Elliott – Iconology
First of all, “I did records for Tweet before y’all could even tweet” from this track is an exquisite line. Missy is back and reminding us of her greatness – aesthetically bright and bold with intricate moves, this lead song is decent, but she’s blessed us with a little project to luxuriate in. Listen here.
Haich Ber Na – ‘Nowhere Like It’
The latest from the London artist (who, incidentally, is an Elheist collaborator) is glitchy and dusky. Entrancing dark keyboards and bass topped with smooth vocals work perfectly with his self-directed video, which shows a visually beautiful look at a sinister, controlling relationship.
Flohio – ‘WAY2’
This beat from Splurgeboys is cold – who knew dissonant tubular bells were such a great, futuristic vibe? It’s always FloFlo season at the moment, and the latest from the Bermondsey rapper just cements why she’s got so much love. We stan a consistent queen.
Dyo – ‘Go All The Way’ ft. Mr Eazi
Am I gassed because this video features some of the gal-dem? Absolutely, but regardless of the black diaspora joy happening here, the song itself is such sweet and warm vibes for a sunny weekend.
You can follow the Five on it playlist on Spotify:
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