A variety of emerging stars like Jae Stephens, Ashwin Gane, and Salvatore Mundi rise and shine in a week of huge surprises on the way from megastars such as Chris Brown, T-Pain, and Rod Wave. The fourth quarter is quickly becoming another impactful season for hip hop in 2025.
The heavy hitters are preparing for massive tours at the top of 2026, while the newcomers establish their undeniable presence to close the year. Unique acts like Ashwin Gane and Salvatore Mundi provide an interesting look at where hip hop is headed in 2026. With fans searching for the next big star in rap, these acts are quickly becoming must-see candidates.
From Jae Stephens taking the lead for the upcoming album to Usher and L.A. Redi protege, JayDon, making his debut, to Big L’s return, here’s a list of all the new music you might have missed this week.
Jae Stephens Cements Her “Boyfriend Forever”
The new track drips with a nostalgic early-2000s pop radio sound and cheeky confidence where the Texan channels her inner pop princess while exploring the thrill of moving on to a new beau. “Boyfriend Forever is about that moment where you make peace with a relationship coming to an end,” she said. “The realization that it’s no longer worth fighting for can be so liberating once you take into account all of the new possibilities that are just around the corner!”
Big L & Nas Know “U Ain’t Gotta Chance”
God’s son links up with the late Brooklyn legend to introduce his legacy to a new generation of hip hop fans. “Big L was always ahead of his time. There’s some quotes out there from me about Big L, like how terrifyingly good that he was that made me have to step up my game. We were both signed to Columbia Records and I think the world never got a chance to get Big L the way they wanted him,” the Illamtic creator comments. “A lot of people are safe out there and rap because Big L’s not no longer around. There’s a lot of stuff floating around today that’s really not good. This album will remind you that it’s not about hype, it’s about art. The roots of this shit is serious talent.”
Wynne & Dame D.O.L.L.A. Play “Peekaboo”
The essential collaboration is a confident, lyrical back-and-forth where both artists flex sharp wordplay and dominance in the rap game. The well-known rhymeslayer delivers rapid-fire bars with wit and precision, while Dame showcases calm authority, creating a dynamic, competitive energy that blends lyrical skill with playful swagger.
Jae Stephens + New Music You Might Have Missed This Week
Big Boss Vette Is A “Bad Bih”
The St. Louis rap star’s latest track is a high-energy, spitfire record that encapsulates everything fans love. She channels her trademark “anthem” sound, designed to boost her listeners’ confidence and remind them that they are, in fact, who they think they are. The new song marks yet another reminder that her mission goes beyond music; it’s about inspiring confidence, independence, and unapologetic self-expression in every listener who presses play.
Danny Brown Has Grown Tired Of The “Copycats”
The second single from the upcoming Stardust album, the Detroit hitmaker brings high-octane over rapid-fire beats and glitchy synths. The collaborators warped, computerized vocals, creating a wild, hyperpop-fueled collision with the star’s unflinching style. The upcoming album marks a groundbreaking new chapter in an already stellar career.
Ashwin Gane & Babyface Ray “Flip Dat” Narrative
Eager to make a name for himself among the new class, the new collaboration is a bold trap anthem where the artists flip the script on relationship games and financial power. They rap about upgrading lifestyles, taking control, and charting their own success, while daring others to keep up in the race for respect and riches.
Salvatore Mundi Requests You “Don’t Waste My Time”
The track stands as a testament to his artistic evolution. Already redefining what it means to merge art, culture, and innovation. The latest release channels the same Renaissance spirit that turned Florence into the epicenter of creativity and rebirth. “The culture and community of Florence made me feel special,” he explained in the press release. “It added a unique touch to my romantic way of expressing myself through music.”
JayDon Lives Up To Expectations With Me, My Music & I
The 18-year-old makes a standout first impression that displays emotive tenor and exquisite control, showcasing his boundless talent. This is the beginning of a new chapter in his already illustrious career.
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