THEGUUDS w/ KADOLEAF, OG MarlynMonROLLUP, hyejin, Whit., & MOIO
KADOLEAF - “MONA LISA”
DMV artist KADOLEAF kicks off the year with his latest hyper-punk but funky single, “MONA LISA,” produced by Tom Carrubba and Stats Nico. On his latest single, KADOLEAF explores the imbalances of meeting someone special through addiction. Through the use of upbeat production and ambient delivery, he deciphers the feeling of love while sober versus under the influence. The production exhibits energy and complements KADOLEAF’s indulging vocal experimentation. In shorter words, this song feels like a trance or even a moment of tranquility. Last year, KADOLEAF dropped a deluxe version of the album Popmonstre and recently featured on Bert Knox’s song “Best Unsaid.” We’re excited to see what KADOLEAF has planned for 2023.
hyejin - “SABOTAGE”
Alternative R&B singer Hyejin recently dropped her highly anticipated EP U GOOD? The three-track EP displays hyejin season ear and vocal ability to ensure her presence is felt. For us, “SABOTAGE,” feels like a song that will stand the test of time. On her latest single, Hyejin reflects on being patient for love while simultaneously acknowledging her desires and tempting to persevere through lustful thoughts. Hyejin’s delivery is angelic, and her descriptive writing makes it emotionally convenient for listeners to connect with her storytelling with understanding. If you’re a fan of contemporary R&B, definitely tap into Hyejin’s evolving catalog. We’re excited to hear what else she has planned for the future.
OG MarlynMonROLLUP - “Vox”
Emerging New York-based artist OG MarlynManROLLUP kicks off the new year with her latest single, “Vox.” Under one minute duration, “Vox” embodies all of the elements that keep a house track moving. The perfect balance of energy and gut-punching lyrics that makes it impossible not to engage. On her latest track, OG MarlynMonROLLUP provides a jammed-packed delivery filled with braggadocios metaphors and exemplified self-awareness that demonstrates her confidence. Last year, OG MarlynMonROLLUP released three singles “Gx3 Freestyle,” “Toxic,” and “It Girl.” Our eyes are glued to see what else she has planned for 2023.
Whit. - “WEIRD FLEX”
Saint Louis, Missouri native Whit. recently dropped a five-track EP, WUNDER: A DEMO DISC, a few days shy of the New Year. This short body of work encapsulates Whit.’s creative realm, and his ability to experiment with different sounds displays his hierarchy as an emerging artist. On “WEIRD FLEX,” Whit. explores the beauty and challenges of courtship. Through the use of smilies and personification, Whit. can express his feelings through poetic lenses. The production alone wears its own character, but Whit.’s cadence carries the song. The writing is joyous and portrays what it means to be in love. Last year, leading to his EP, Whit dropped a few singles highlighting his genre-less creative approach. Our eyes are glued to see what else he has planned for the near future.
MOIO - “SUNBEAMING”
London-based artist MOIO recently dropped his latest self-produced and written single, “SUNBEAMING.” The track brings listeners into a trance as MOIO explores the blissfulness of living fearless and allowing moments of zen to lead his journey. In the process of being open to what life brings, he fears the possibility of things not working in his favor but finds the energy to dance through those worries. The production finds a subtle way to incorporate infused jazz, contemporary R&B, and borderline praise/worship music. The writing is hopeful, and MOIO’s delivery is precise but holds onto the coattail of optimism. The first time MOIO came across our radar was when he produced “BIG FAT LIAR” for Monjola, his brother, whose also a London-based artist. We’re excited to see MOIO step more into his light.
THEGUUDS w/ LUCA, MOZZ!, Shann, KIDZ, Theodor Black, Elly Shane & Manah
LUCA - Altar
NY native LUCA makes his euphoric return with his latest single “Altar.” LUCA continues to welcome listeners into his creative guises with the use of descriptive writing and admiration to transcend punk-esque guitar riffs and puddy-like bass arrangements. On “Altar,” LUCA displays the motions of holding onto love despite feeling unfulfilled in the relationship. The battle of trying to be selfless while denouncing your happiness. This song feels like an alternative ballad. LUCA’s voice strikes the beat with care and direction; shaping the sound movement throughout the song. The song moves at a consistent pace, building up towards the luxurious guitar solo by co-producer Will Catucci. LUCA is wearing his heart on his sleeve, creating a safe place to display his vulnerability with grace. This serves as a follow-up to his November release “Serotonin.” We’re excited about what LUCA has in store for the rest of the year.
MOZZ! - “call me”
New Jersey singer-songwriter MOZZ! makes her debut with “call me.” MOZZ!’s voice is soothing and submerges the delicate textures provided by the production. The slow-building drum kicks are infectious. MOZZ!’s enticing harmonies paces well alongside the dreamy chords. On ”call me,” MOZZ! sings about wanting her love interest to put more effort into their relationship. MOZZ! tonality and pacing over the subdued dreamy production delivery resemble an alt approach to blues with modern soul components. The balance between traditional piano arrangement and synth chords will send listeners into a trance of peace and comfort. MOZZ! is floating on her debut single and we’re excited to see what she floats on next.
KIDZ, Quincy X & SMYTH - “4 Da KIDZ”
Collective KIDZ recently dropped their debut EP 4 Da KIDZ, which serves as a solid four-track body of work that highlights each member's creative contributions. One of the standout tracks from their last sonic offering is “4 Da KIDZ.” The chop and screw feel nostalgic, embracing the essence of Houston with a refreshing approach. The lyrical exchanges between Quincy X and SMYTH are delivered with aplomb over the heavy bounce production. The glitchy hi-hats with the sharp snare display no blemish and the saxophone section lingering in the background are alluring. The collective pays homage to Kendrick Lamar with their “you ain't gotta lie to kick it” bridge. Quincy X and SMYTH are a match made in heaven when it comes to both holding their own on tracks and encouraging each other’s pen. At the top of this year, the trio released singles leading up to their collaborative effort.
Manah- “Time and Space”
Singer-songwriter Manah returns with her latest single “Time and Space.” Manah’s vocal arrangements are dreamy and set as equilibrium for the heavy 808s and sticky snares that holds the core of the production.
On “Time and Space,” Manah reflects on the value of love from previous lovers. She’s coming to terms with the loss of love and finds comfort in the time and space it’s providing her. The deeper vocals underneath Manah’s voice add color and expression to Manah’s therapeutic writing style. This single serves as a follow-up to her 2020 release “Numb.” We’re excited to see what else Manah has planned for the year.
Theodor Black - “TOP DOWN”
South London artist Theodor Black returns with his latest “TOP DOWN.” Black’s cadence and versatile delivery exude confidence as he expresses the highs and lows of living up to your best potential. Black is not afraid to go against the grain by playing with his vocals, adding a deeper texture to his lyricism. The drill elements in the second portion of the beat demonstrate Black’s ability to find balance with UK sounds and nostalgic synths; cultivating a refreshing sonic offering. At the beginning of 2022, Black released his single “LOOP,” and is planning to drop his EP PARADISE FM next month.
Shann - “Same Page”
Virginia native Shann makes her debut with “Same Page,” produced by FULMETALPARKA. Shann’s vocals are placed gently over the bright production as she expresses her desire for her significant other to be on the same page as her. The production blur modern and traditional R&B elements with elegance. The song is short, which feels intentional; leaving listeners wanting more from the Virginia singer. “Same Page” serves as a heartfelt interlude to Shann’s unapologetic predilection to be in sync with her significant other. We’re excited to hear what else she had planned for the future.
Elly Shane - “Sense of Gravity”
LA-based Singer-songwriter and vocal producer Elly Shane makes her latest sonic offering with “Sense of Gravity.” The funkadelic aspects and thumping drums are evocative and the violins are gorgeous. There are so many instrument elements throughout the song, it's constantly moving at a comfortable pace, lead by Shane’s angelic vocal arrangements. The hook is infectious and catchy over the ethereal production by Ryan Baer. On her latest single, Shane sings about wanting her crush to move on from their current relationship and be with her instead. Taking honor in being that comfort space for her beloved crush, despite the limitations of their partnership. Shane’s voice is smooth and samite; finding a nice balance between 90’s r&b and pop-soul. Shane is planning to drop her debut EP Tripwire on April 22nd. We’re excited for the new music!
THEGUUDS w/ Bairi, Dachelle, Sectiontoo & Ricky Mapes
Dachelle - “Give Up”
NY Singer-songwriter Dachelle returns with her latest single “Give Up.” She’s done holding onto baggage that serves no purpose to her well-being. Dachelle’s writing style has never failed to impress. She’s not afraid to make the beat work for her and she finds melodies that feel familiar, but refreshing. Her background harmonies are placed with detail and merge with the lead vocals with care. On this single, Dachelle’s voice is tranquil as she embraces her inner peace stemming from joyously reflecting on those tough times shared with previous lovers. Last year, Dachelle released “Purple Haze” right before the holidays, and our ears are glued to hear what else she has planned for this year.
Bairi - “Spring Cleaning”
New Jersey native Bairi returns with her latest single “Spring Cleaning,” the perfect soundtrack to sage out the negative energy right before springtime. Bairi is no longer holding her tongue and is confidently stepping into the light she deems for herself. On this track, Bairi’s cadence builds momentum as the soothing background vocals make her delivery digestible for the naysayers. The production by Park and 48thST shines a light that helps Bairi find the rhythm with a natural bounce, but a reviving approach for modern R&B. Last year, she released two singles “Free” and “Paraíso”; and recently was featured on Deante’ Hitchcock's new album. We’re excited to see what she has planned for the rest of the year!
Sectiontoo - “Come See Me Tonight”
Queens native Sectiontoo returns with his latest single “Come See Me Tonight” alongside long-time collaborator identite crisis. There’s something unorthodox but nostalgic about this song that’ll make you call an old crush and attempt to go down memory lane despite the heartache. Sectiontoo takes heed to incorporate traditional R&B elements with a modern approach. The way his vocals transform throughout the song is captivating. Section’s pen is heartfelt and driven by muses that once brought comfort. The cloudy guitar solo at the end is one of the many production highlights of the song. The song was released through his label Viper Records. We’re looking forward to seeing what else he has planned for the year.
Ricky Mapes - “BIG MAPES”
Bronx rapper Ricky Mapes returns with his latest single “BIG MAPLES'' produced by Cuffedgod. Mapes’ pacing and tonality fits perfectly over the sample-based track. His storytelling is descriptive and allows listeners to have a vivid image of the picture his words are painting. On this song, Mapes juggles his thought process and has epiphanies on different situations that could’ve derailed his divine path. Mapes's unique perspective and complex word arrangements show off his immense talent as an artist. Earlier this year, he released three singles, “SPEAKEASY,” “GINGERBREAD,” and “FENTY;” all being perfect examples of his creative ability and growth as an emerging artist.
THEGUUDS w/ Swami Sound, Frank Sativa, Paris Michael, Quail P, & David Saint Val
Swami Sound & JOON - “Hope It Stays”
New York City native Swami Sound is changing the soundscape for the tristate. On his most recent single “Hope It Stays” featuring JOON, he’s in his own universe crafting the next evolution of music. The glitchy hi-hats and drums, submerged by synth chords created an introspective melodic drift that feels spacey but upbeat at the same time. With the use of blended alternative R&B and garage elements, his sonics come off as unprecedented. In 2020, Swami Sound dropped two projects titled It Is What It Is and Feel It Redux. We’re excited to see what’s pending for 2022.
Paris Michael - “TMZ”
Chicago-based rapper Paris Michael arrives with his latest single “TMZ.” The heavy 808’s supported by Michael’s jammed pack delivery provide the perfect to feel raged and invincible. Michael is steamrolling through this track with the use of braggadocious rhyme schemes and the energy to back it up if anyone dares to question him. Last year March, Michael released his debut project DIVA! DIVA! DIVA! embodying those same elements that perspire through his latest single. We’re hype to see what he has planned for the year!
Frank Sativa - “THAT’S MY GIRL”
LA-based artist Frank Sativa is providing soothing sounds with his latest offering BEDROOM FILES EP. Sativa has a way of meshing alternative sounds and hazy vocal arrangements that feels grounding as a listener. “THAT’S MY GIRL” stands out the most for us on his latest EP. There’s a nice nostalgic feel to it. A week before dropping his EP, he released a single “Runnin' Out Of Time” with emerging musician Tommy Richman. We’re excited to see what he has in the works for 2022.
David Saint Val - “Codependency”
Houston Texas native David Saint Val returns with his latest “Codependency.” This song embodies those traditional R&B elements with an refreshing twist on lofi production. On this track, Val is taking accountability for his past actions and through the use of soothing vocals arrangements, trying to move forward. The way Val paces himself throughout the song allows listeners to digest words and intonations. Last year, David Saint Val released a few singles and developing his sound.
Quail P ft. Taleban Dooda - "Street Appreciation”
Florida-based rapper Quail P is on the rise with his latest single “Street Appreciation.” He provides a comforting steadiness with his ballad-like anthem blended with relentlessness to break through the sonic cracks. On “Street Appreciation,” P is reflective of his journey and endurance as a black man growing up in The Sunshine State, while also displaying his admiration towards those moments of triumph. The strong piano presence establishes an open scope for him to clear his conscience. Last year March, Quail P released his debut project Who Is Quail ? and a bundle of singles right after. We’re looking forward to seeing what he has planned for 2022.
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THEGUUDS// lamuse, Wakai, Rugby Wild & LUCA
lamuse - “Reddit”
NY-based rapper lamuse kicks off the year with her latest single “Reddit” featuring Dachelle. Lamuse has been honing in our sound and craft for the past couple of years with her solo work and also music alongside her collective thebaremax. On her latest single, she raps about the ins and outs of dating and the different perceptions of love that come to light as the relationship continues. Supported by the soothing vocals of Dachelle who zig zags out of different pockets on her verse, creating a divine spiral depicting the blissful attractions of courtship. Last year, lamuse dropped two EP’s months away from each other and is expected to drop her follow-up project weeks from now.
Wakai - “Send Off”
Baton Rouge artist Wakai commences the new year with his latest energized single “Send Off.” The track resonates with those good moments of hanging with your friends while driving your parent's car. Blasting the radio and fuckin up your parent's presets. Last year April, Wakai released Away Game Vol.2, which tampered around plush soul samples and lazy deliveries that creates a realm of zen-like. Looking forward to whatever he’s working on next.
LUCA - “Serotonin”
Harlem native LUCA dropped his single “Serotonin,” which displays a superb balance between modern R&B and alternative music. The hazy melodies, supported by the striking guitar riffs develop a unique sound, that feels subdued in heartache but smothered in reassurance. LUCA’s voice is comforting and visual on his self-produced track. This being LUCA’s only single, we’re looking forward to seeing where he takes his music for 2022.
Rugby Wild - “Say What!”
LA-based rapper Rugby Wild dropped his latest sonic offering last year in December titled Thumbs Up. This project varies in sound and Wild’s delivery is refreshing. The cool thing about the project is it's hard to lay a finger on where Wild gets his inspiration from. The production zig-zags between calming samples and punching trap drums highlight his ability to balance classic and modern hip-hop elements. “Say What!” is one of the standout tracks from the body of work, Wild explains his perseverance to defeat the odds against him. With the use of flawless tonality and emotion-driven lyricism, he’s positioning himself to push the creative envelope further.
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THEGUUDS/// Kevin Holliday, MALI AMA , Thorne Malik. and many more
Kevin Holliday - “Expensive Taste”
Brooklyn-based artist Kevin Holliday starts the year off with his latest single “Expensive Taste,” shy of a few months from his OMNI EP. On “Expensive Taste,” Holliday is fully immersed in the 80s universe with modern textures that push forward distinctive grove elements. Produced alongside his collaborators Chasen Smith and Keizo Fish, the production shows admiration towards Quincy Jones's prominent years. Holliday’s vocals layered on top of subdued synth chords feel like the perfect matrimony for peace of mind. The overlapping arrangement towards the end set the tone for this optimistic feel, despite the forthcoming delusion that fame and fortune could potentially bring. At the end of the day, “It’s okay, it’s alright.” Keep your ears open for what Kevin Holliday drops next.
Mali AMA - “Not You”
ATL-based singer-songwriter MALI AMA recently dropped her latest single “Not You” right before the new year. AMA soothing harmonies create an angelic interspace between her and the plush-like production. Last year October, AMA dropped her debut project How The Cookie Crumbled; which set a precedent for her balance between traditional and experimental R&B. Looking forward to hearing more music as the year continues!
Thorne Malik. - “ego dea(t)h”
New York-based artist/producer Thorne Malik. dropped his debut project now wha(t)?! a few weeks before the new year set in. Malik.’s debut project exudes hopefulness and the blissful understanding that tomorrow is not guaranteed. His song “ego dea(t)h” is one of the stand-out tracks from the project. He finds a balance between his dense delivery and mesmerizing melodies that create an open field for him to reflect on the past years leading up to his debut. In addition, all tracks were self-produced. Keep your ears open for what’s nex(t).
THEGUUDS// Dedisart, Yaya Bey & more !
“LAST DANCE/S.O.S.” - Dedisart
PA based artist Dedisart is back with his latest offering WHATABOUTIT? Supported by enriched production from FULF, demahjae, kypat, and killerkane; Dedisart is provided the realm to explore and unpack his muse willfully. One of the many stand out tracks would be “LAST DANCE / S.O.S.” Dedisart embrace the concept of timeless thinking and not being confined to current moments. The soothing chopped sample bearing the reminisce of being a child is the sugarcoating of the harsh reality that the future not guaranteed. His tone and delivery is potent, which makes his message pierce through with ease. Earlier this year, Dedisart dropped Dunce Parade along side producer McQUAID.
“ made this on the spot” - Yaya Bey & V.C.R.
Singer-songwriter Yaya Bey shares a new song titled “made this on the spot,” featuring violinist V.C.R. The impromptu aesthetic lure listeners into an angelic care package for accepting the absence of a past relationship. Bey is reflecting on the red flags and taking ownership of her actions as well. Bey’s subdued vocal arrangements embodies the comfort in knowing everything is for the better. “You got a friend in me” is repeated throughout the song , demonstrating her maturity and genuineness with the outcome. Earlier this year , Bey released a project called The Things I Can’t Take With Me.
THEGUUDS// Demetruest, Steel Tipped Dove, Lou Val and more
Demetruest- “MASC OFF” feat. Teddy Jackson and Akenya
Chicago based artist Demetruest dropped their latest single “MASC OFF” featuring Teddy Jackson and Akenya. The effusive production creates the realm for all artist to deliver their verbal offerings towards denouncing gender roles in society. Demetruest stands in their truth and encourages others to stop hiding behind the mask of preconceived notion’s. Demetruest’s deliver is dense; It aggrandizes their message as the track progresses. Early this year , they dropped DIRECTION EP, which was the second installment to their EP trilogy.
Steel Tipped Dove - “Don’t Move” feat. Fat Tony, FIELDED and Pink Siifu.
Brooklyn based producer Steel Tipped Dove recently dropped a projected titled Call Me When You’re Outside featuring the likes of billy woods, E L U C I D , Fatboi Shariff, keiyaA , Shirt and many more. One of the tracks that stand out the most is “Don’t Move” featuring Fat Tony, FIELDED and Pink Siifu. Like many of the tracks off the project, it feels like a collage of opulent apprehension. The pacing of the beat is mellow and gaze worthy ; which creates the perfect orbit for Fat Tony and Pink Siifu to talk their shit , while being supported by FIELDED harmonies. Steel Tipped Dove is all about community and connecting artist. His 2nd floor walk-up studio in Brooklyn is iconic .
Lou Val - “Sublunary du Son”
Toronto based singer/songwriter Lou Val is reinforcing the constant evolving alternative R&B sound with his song “Sublunary du Son” off of his project Tayo and The Dreamer. The instrumentation starts off light; the dusty drums meshes well with Val’s gentle thrumming vocals. This track is a journey towards hopefulness and seeks solace in tomorrow. Val’s voice is soothing and enhances those moments of zen throughout the song. His traditional elements are outshined by his free spirited inference.
THEGUUDS// Ginga Soul, KADOLEAF, Tyler Langley, Native Son and more
Ginga Soul - “Nostalgia”
Miami based neo-soul artist Ginga Soul recently dropped a six-track EP titled On My Mind. The project paints a warm and fuzzy feeling about discovering love and the lustful feelings that come along with it. “Nostalgia” featuring Näylon is one of the few stand out tracks from Soul’s musical offering. Their voices compliment each other perfectly and the melodies are comforting.
KADOLEAF - “Berlin”
VA songwriter/producer KADOLEAF dropped his latest single “Berlin.” Building off the same sonic textures from his EP Popmonstre released last July. KADOLEAF blur the lines between pop and alt R&B in the most harmonious way. His relentless effort of not falling victim to the current popular sounds of today is prevalent. “Berlin” feels like a montage of good and bad moments during a vacation with a significant other. The drums create the feeling of being on-the-go while, the subtle Mac Demarco-ish strings keep you grounded for the adventure. KADOLEAF is constantly experimenting with sounds which makes it impossible to predict which direction he’ll go next.
Tyler Langley - “ROCKFORD”
R&B singer Tyler Langley returns with her follow up project Almost There. The 20-min body of work consists of memorable melodies and smothering 808s that make you sink into Langley’s benign voice. “ROCKFORD” is one of the many tracks that highlights Langley’s growth as a vocalist since her 2020 album Return to Saturn. With a slower tempo, Langley is given the space to interchange melodies and rhyme patterns with fluency.
Native Son - “Ctrl Freak”
NY based artist Native Son aka Ano Chrispin returns with his first single “Ctrl Freak,” which would be featured on his upcoming EP slated to drop next year. This track exudes punk ; undiluted punk in the most purest delivery. Son’s ability to tap into contemporary and modern post rock is second to none. The production is chaotic and intense; feels like one of those cool car chase scenes from a 70’s film.
THEGUUDS playlist is updated bi-weekly. Check out the other wonderful artist on this weeks playlist and hope to see you in two weeks !
THEGUUDS playlist
THEGUUDS: Flozigg, Tommy Richman, Ego Ella May, boylife and more
Flozigg - “serious”
FL based R&B singer Flozigg recently dropped an EP titled Beige. His neo-soul influence exudes throughout the 12-min body of work. “Serious” being one of the stand out tracks ; tailored in cohesive falsettos that ignites nostalgia. There’s a slight resemblance of Prince and Childish Gambio’s Awaken My Love era. His unorthodox approach to alternative rnb is refreshing and necessary.
boylife- “superpretty”
boylife, aka gelato, recently dropped his latest introspective project titled Gelato. This project takes a dense focus on facing vices and insecurities, while finding the ability to dance through the growing pains of life. It’s hard to pin down the production intentions because it spirals through multiple sounds with suave. Half of the project is added on my personal playlist but the track “superpretty” stands out the most to me.
Ego Ella May & Flwr Chlyd - “Speck Of Dust”
South London singer Ego Ella May and Atlanta producer Flwr Chlyd teamed up for their latest soulful single “Speck Of Dust.” May’s soothing voice is distinct and absolving over Chlyd’s chord progressions. The arrangement paints abstraction from reality. May’s harmonies over Chyld ‘s puddy-like percussion in the beginning feels plush and angelic. These two mesh together so perfectly and balance each other out sonically. Ego recently dropped an project titled FIELDNOTES, a solid collection of four songs.
Tommy Richman - “Stargirl”
RVA artist Tommy Richman recently dropped his latest single “Stargirl,” fcontinuing his freeform synth progressions, retroactive drum patterns and hollowing vocals wrapped in velour textures. Richman’s effort of pushing genre boundaries is clear-cut. Definitely a dope follow up to his single “Chrono Trigger” released last month September.
THEGUUDS playlist is updated bi-weekly. Check out the other wonderful artist on this weeks playlist and hope to see you in two weeks !
THEGUUDS playlist