THEGUUDS w/ LĒA THE LEOX, Amaya Santos, House of EL, Hadji Gaviota, Ashoka & femdot.
LĒA THE LEOX - “Purpose”
Lea the LEOX is a Los Angeles-based acoustic R&B singer whose latest single "Purpose" is a reflection of her self-discovery journey. The gentle, intricate string arrangements create a dreamy atmosphere that perfectly complements Lea's soulful vocals. In "Purpose," Lea sings about accepting and embracing herself, realizing that her purpose in life is not just about achieving accolades, but rather stems from a deeper sense of love and connection with her family. The single is the second and title track of Lea's highly anticipated debut EP, also titled "Purpose." Her first single "When You're Lonely," released in January, gives listeners a glimpse into the introspective and emotional world of her music. With her heartfelt lyrics and smooth melodies, Lea the LEOX is definitely an artist to watch in the world of acoustic R&B.
Amaya Santos - “Better”
Amaya Santos, a talented artist based in New York, has released a powerful song called "Better" that encourages listeners to let go of toxic relationships and prioritize self-love and self-care. Her vocal performance on this track is exceptional, with a soulful depth and silky smoothness that soothes the soul and inspires listeners to shed negativity from their lives. The production of "Better" is a beautiful blend of old-school R&B and modern pop elements. The drums provide a steady, strong beat that carries the song forward, while the instrumentation is both nostalgic and fresh. The melody is catchy, and the lyrics are relatable, making it a perfect singalong for anyone who has ever had to cut ties with someone who brought them down. Santos' voice can be compared to a flowing river that effortlessly carries the listener away, while the drums in the production can be likened to a beating heart that steadily pushes the song forward. "Better" is an exceptional track that showcases Santos' impressive vocal abilities and songwriting skills. Last year, Amaya Santos released two singles “Carousel” and “Dance with Danger.” We’re excited to see what else she has planned for the year!
House of EL - “Electric”
House of EL, an artist hailing from Northampton and also known as Kieron McIntosh, has shown his versatility and creativity by exploring new avenues of musical expression, including singing, songwriting, and production. His latest EP, titled "When It Rains It Pours," ensures a sonic journey that builds on his jazz and soul influences. One of the EP's standout tracks is "Electric," which blends jazz and soul elements into a simmering sonic stew. McIntosh's falsetto vocals glide over a melodic groove that is nothing short of irresistible, like the sun breaking through storm clouds on a summer afternoon. Layered percussion and woozy undertones add texture and depth to the track, creating a lush sonic landscape that invites listeners to immerse themselves in the music. With "When It Rains It Pours," McIntosh is poised to showcase his exceptional musicality and remind us of the power of music to transport and uplift us.
Ashoka & femdot. - “Questions”
Ashoka, a talented musician hailing from New York, has teamed up with femdot. for their latest musical project - a powerful collaboration entitled "Questions." On their latest track, Ashoka explores the internal battles between anxiety and depression, while using an lens of storytelling to present what’s been weighing heavy on his heart. Produced by the renowned Lucas Quinn, who has previously worked with Russ, the single channels a classic Alt-Hip Hop sound that takes cues from early-mid 2000s rap. Ashoka's unique delivery, characterized by his rhythmic cadence and introspective lyrics, shines on "Questions," making it a standout track in his repertoire. femdot., a rising star from Chicago who recently impressed audiences with his COLORS performance, adds to the song's appeal with his distinct style. His words are precise and short but, gets his point across thoroughly. In 2020, Ashoka dropped his debut album Through the Fire , which serves as a testament of Askoka’s evolving sound and growth as an musician. We’re excited to see what else he has planned for the year.
Hadji Gaviota - “boi”
Hadji Gaviota, a Queens NY native, has just released his latest single "Boi," showcasing his exceptional musical talent once again. The track features a vibrant and upbeat pop production, perfectly complementing Hadji's smooth and infectious vocals. With his distinct delivery style and impressive vocal range, Hadji effortlessly glides over the bouncy production, bringing the song to life. Frequent listeners will recognize his trademark humor and lightheartedness in the lyrics, making "Boi" a playful and enjoyable listen. As with his previous releases, it's highly likely that an accompanying music video will also be released, showcasing Hadji's dynamic visual flair. Hadji is expected to drop a new project that continues to highlight his musical abilities and charismatic personality.
Written by: Kha Akerson
THEGUUDS w/ Bert Knox, CONNIE, Ashli & Sufi Hamilton
Bert Knox & KADOLEAF - “best unsaid”
Brooklyn native Bert Knox teams up with DMV artist KADOLEAF for their latest sonic offering, “best unsaid.” Knox recently dropped a new project, a short story about love, ego & death, which displays a chronological depiction of finding self-love through the lenses of vices, relationships, and self-deprecation. The standout track featuring KADOLEAF tells a story of regret and despair while tempting to revive a love that’s run its course. Knox's writing is poetic but directed; he wears his heart on his sleeves but uses different textures to present his story. The production provided by tookhozy sets a perfect atmosphere for both musicians to explore unique flows and melodies. Bert Knox's latest project is a great addition to his evolving catalog. We’re excited to see what else he has planned for the future.
CONNIE - GS1 ft. Zelooperz
Rockford, IL producer CONNIE teams up with Detroit rapper Zelooperz for their latest single, “GS1.” CONNIE’s futuristic production, blended with Zelooperz’s nebulous cadences, creates a refreshing soundscape. This fusion of styles results in a thrilling and dynamic track that brings out the best of both artists. It’s crazy to think that this was a freestyle for Zelooperz. The energy in his delivery feels directed, and the quick-hit metaphors display his ability to communicate his thoughts vividly. On "GS1," CONNIE demonstrates his dedication to innovation and unpredictability in his production. The track perfectly exemplifies his ability to merge different styles and influences to create something new and exciting. CONNIE started his career working with close friend JELEEL! and landed a smashing hit, “DIVE IN.” Since then, he’s released music with Mike Dimes, Louis The Child, TiaCorine, Jabari Manwa & Merlyn Wood of BROCKHAMPTON, Greek, and more. We’re excited to see what else he has planned for the future.
Ashli - “Dance Again”
Ashli, who hails from Western Sydney, has released a disco-inspired single called "Dance Again", following her debut release. The song reflects her coming-of-age experiences and sentimentality in the music industry, conveying the desire for the enjoyable aspects of a relationship without the commitment that comes with it. The song opens with a plush percussive beat that provides clarity to the opening lyrics amidst the swirling synths. The track is a combination of house and R&B music, and its inspiration is evident throughout the soundscape. Ashli's talent for creating captivating melodies and lyrics is evident in the track, which could potentially launch her career to new heights. Last November, Ashli dropped a six-track EP, Only One, which is delightful display of the artist's unique blend of soulful vocals, introspective lyrics, and genre-bending production. We’re excited to hear what else she has planned for the near future.
Sufi Hamilton - “make sense”
Brooklyn based artist/producer Sufi Hamilton recently dropped his entrancing single “make sense.” The funk based production and Hamilton’s vocal experimentation ignites nostalgia, as if he’s recreating an time piece that has become cherished by many listeners of R&B. On his latest single, Hamilton reflects on a previous relationship and tries to find solace with the ending result. Hamilton’s writing is evocative, clearly painting a picture with his words and using an hazy cadence to evoke the emotion. The track was fully written and produced by the talented Brooklyn musician. Last year, Sufi Hamilton dropped two singles “Closer 2 U” and “Video Game.” Our eyes are glued for what else he has planned for this year!
Written by: Kha Akerson
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.
learn 2 swim - Redveil
On learn 2 swim, Redveil is facing maturity and embracing the highs and lows of his new profound success
On his 18th time around the sun, PG county Maryland native Redveil returns with his latest project learn 2 swim. Fully written and produced by the “pg baby” that is soon to become a household name. On learn 2 swim, Redveil is facing maturity and embracing the highs and lows of his new profound success. Compared to his 2021 release Niagara, veil finds a balance between his metaphoric and undeviating delivers.
Veil’s keenness for chopping up samples and layering spacey 808s that’ll have your speakers vibrating plays a huge role in his creative contributions. His voice inflections and tonality stick out unequivocally, displaying his growth as a performer. His voice inflections and tonality stick out unequivocally, displaying his growth as a performer. “mars” demonstrates Redveil’s growth as a rapper and producer; clashing lofi samples and jazz-infused elements that bring forward pioneering synth sounds from the 80s.
On “shoulder” featuring Mekdelawit & Renaissance Mic, Veil raps about his fleeting youth and having to step into adulthood. Veil’s audience expands over all ages because of his fluent ear for soul samples and youthful approach to trap drum arrangements. Sam Truth's vocals on “better” give Veil the space to reflect on triumphs and strength his optimism for the future.
His stanzas are short but jammed with preciseness; leaving no room for error. His growth feels like a slow burn and confidently takes the sonic risk to present his artistry at its purest. Samples, heavy 808s, and alluring synth progressions under a jazz microscope; Redveil is truly a student of music and it’s evident in his creative offerings.
BPM - V. Cartier
Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, and producer V. Cartier recently dropped his latest sonic offering BPM. It’s impossible to sit still and listen to this project. Cartier provides a refreshing approach to alternative pop and experimental R&B.
Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, and producer V. Cartier recently dropped his latest sonic offering BPM. It’s impossible to sit still and listen to this project. Cartier provides a refreshing approach to alternative pop and experimental R&B. “What You Want” demonstrates his funk influences and ability to incorporate deep house tempos.
This project provides different synopsis of seeking courtship in efforts for experience, not forevermore. On songs like “ONS” and “Gonna Do” illustrates his confidence, while songs like “Call Me” and “Westside” reveal his unassertiveness. Throughout the project, Cartier finds a well-meshed balance between the two. There’s something truly special about the slowdown version of “Tempo.”
Spoiled Milk! - Fifthpower
New York-based rapper and well-rounded creative Fifthpower dropped his latest project Spoiled Milk! This project takes listeners into an alternative universe filled with heavy 808’s and whimsical chord progressions that sets the perfect environment for Fifthpower to deliver his thoughts without any filter.
New York-based rapper and well-rounded creative Fifthpower dropped his latest project Spoiled Milk! This project takes listeners into an alternative universe filled with heavy 808’s and whimsical chord progressions that sets the perfect environment for Fifthpower to deliver his thoughts without any filter. On “Wsp 2.0,” Fifthpower is talking his shit effortlessly while being supported by punching 808’s that forces listeners to bounce along.
The project is fully produced by his long-time collaborator Kahlil Blu; these two are the perfect duo. The gritty drums and muffled looped sample on “IV.PC” embody 90’s underground rap and modern lo-fi. The back and forth lyrical exchange between Fifthpower and Kahlil Blu feels like those Hip Hop concerts at the neighborhood park our parents would brag about. In addition to making music, Fifthpower also creates some dope art!
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.
LOOK CLOSELY - Hush Forte
Producer, songwriter and instrumentalist Hush Forte dropped his latest album LOOK CLOSELY. The tape is consistent in the most generous ways. Rounding at 40-min duration , filled with prodigious guitar riffs that revives alternative soundscapes and melodies.
Producer, songwriter and instrumentalist Hush Forte dropped his latest album LOOK CLOSELY. The tape is consistent in the most generous ways. Rounding at 40-min duration , filled with prodigious guitar riffs that revives alternative soundscapes and melodies. Forte’s production displays inspiration from the 1970’s Jazz infusion band Weather Report and glimpses of Stevie Wonders 1980’s classic Hotter Than July.
What sticks out the most is his drum textures. His drums are smothered behind different chord variations but, the presence is still prevalent; not overbearing.
The 11-track offering features Love Mansuy, Saint Lyor, Q, and more. The rugged chord progressions and falsettos on “YOU UNDERSTAND” featuring Q resembles The Parliament. This being their second track together since “summer girls;” when these two team up, stand out moments are guaranteed.
On “GREATEST FAULT,” Forte summaries the process of facing the truth. What happens in the dark will eventually come to light , or you eventually become the darkness.
“The shadows never leave his feet“
Hush Forte is pushing creative boundaries. He finds comfort between contemporary and modern R&B . While at the same time he’s not your typical R&B artist, so expect the unexpected.
NVRTOOLATE #001 // Transit - AJRadio
Upcoming Brooklyn artist , AJRadico, dropped his debut project Transit back in February. With all songs produced and written by AJRadico, he precisely takes us on a futuristic adventure, with the NYC subway lines leading us to the oyster. AJRadico stays true to melodic lines and heavy 808’s to carry his message of proving his disbelievers wrong.
On “Ballhog” , he holds no punches towards the doubters. AJ is fully aware of his place in the world and the challenges he’ll have to endure during his journey.
The nonchalantness of “that’s on me” being repeated on “Centre,” proves that AJRadico understands nothing is perfect and sometimes you have to roll with the punches.
With brazen, AJRadio shows no fear in entering various genre’s and allows his vocal bending abilities to guide his creativity with no barriers.
“Why they hate? (I don't know) And they chat?
I'm in ya downloads, I'm in ya apps
On my downfall they wanna hatch
Tweet, tweet, but they never left the nest “
A Catch “.22” Sends ATL Artist Wesson Desir on a Superficial Adventure in New Video
ATL artist Wesson Desir reminds us of the catch “.22” of fame in his new video which pays homage to the 2006 film Click starring Adam Sandler. With the click of a button, Desir is faced with the worldly/stereotypical aspirations for a rapper…
ATL artist Wesson Desir reminds us of the catch “.22” of fame in his new video which pays homage to the 2006 film Click starring Adam Sandler. With the click of a button, Desir is faced with the worldly/stereotypical aspirations for a rapper… Flashy cars and IG models. The video starts off with the lyric “The world is a product of my design,” and cuts to Desir tied up against his will. Directed by Amandla Baraka and produced by Matthew Schonfeld, the use of the remote as the focal point brings about nostalgic feelings and foreshadows the catch 22 of success, pin-pointing that desires can ignite demise. It seems as though the remote symbolizes fame and the cost to obtain it. On “.22,” Desir delivers a laid back flow reflecting on past triumphs and what’s to come for the future. It’s the type of song you’d put on after a fun summer night, recapping the antics while preparing a Henny and Coke for tonight's endeavors. It’s a guilt free track.
“I hummed the hemisphere to fit me exact.”
Desir is done trying things and is aware of what works for him. “Universe speaking in colored lines” speaks to the duality of speaking things into existence and following up. Desir reminds us there is always a price to pay, but you determine the cost.