Veterans like Lloyd Banks and newcomers like 3LitMari had a great week of exposure over the week, while Tyler, The Creator secured the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200. Drake and Cardi B are plotting the last of the mega stars’ return in 2025, while new artists release catchy tracks ahead of the drop.
Last week’s hip-hop releases reflected the genre’s global range and evolution. Central Cee’s Can’t Rush Greatness debuted atop the UK Albums Chart and made U.S. history as the first UK rap album to crack the Billboard 200 top 10. Ken Carson’s More Chaos topped the Billboard 200, fueled by rage-trap energy and a standout feature from Playboi Carti.
Detroit’s Lelo impressed with New Detroit, while Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist dropped their sharp sequel Alfredo 2. But while the greats created memorable moments, several new acts arose and provided us with glimpses of the future. From Kehlani dropping a new version of her hit song to 3LitMari and Ashwin making their presence felt to Lloyd Banks showcasing the gritty New York flow, here’s a list of new music you might have missed this week.
Lloyd Banks Resurfaces For A “Courtside Freestyle”
The veteran emcee showcases his lyrical dominance with icy precision and unapologetic bravado. Over a dark, minimalist beat, he weaves slick metaphors and street-coded wisdom, nodding to his legacy while dismissing doubters. The track feels like a reminder that he still plays the rap game on his terms—sharp, composed, and fearless—holding his spot courtside, not just spectating but commanding attention from the arena.
3LitMari Will Always “Prevail”
The Chicago-born rapper delivers a powerful statement of endurance with his latest single. Built on gritty production and stripped of theatrics, the track serves as a raw anthem of survival. He channels real-life struggle through minimalist yet impactful bars, using his steady cadence and lived experience to drive the message home.
Buddah Bless, 2 Chainz & Big Sean Book A Flight To “See The World”
After creating a booming sound, the chart-topping producer links with Toni and Sean Don for a globe-trotting track. Over a soulful, melodic beat, both rappers celebrate their rise from struggle to luxury, expressing pride in seeing the world beyond their origins. The verses blend flexing with introspection, highlighting personal growth, loyalty, and the importance of keeping a grounded mindset despite fame and fortune.
Kehlani “(un)Folded” Her Latest Hit To Extend Its Success
The stripped-down version of the hit song showcases the singer in a vulnerable exploration of healing, self-worth, and emotional transformation. Over atmospheric production, she reflects on past wounds and the strength it takes to rebuild after heartbreak. It’s a meditative, soul-baring track about reclaiming peace, choosing softness, and embracing growth after surviving pain.
Ciara Reunites With Jazze Pha & Ciara For “This Right Here”
Marked as the established singer’s return to music. The collaboration is a vibrant pop-rap single produced by the same producer who gave Ci Ci her biggest hits. The track blends early-2000s club nostalgia with modern Southern flair. The track pays homage to the city’s cultural influence and enduring legacy.
Ashwin Gane Arrives At Night With “Twilight Tales”
The fast-rising Detroit act delivers a cinematic trap EP that reimagines the genre through a mythic, narrative lens. Spanning ten tracks, the project blends orchestral arrangements, haunting choirs, booming 808s, and immersive visuals to form a cohesive storytelling arc. Anchored by the visceral single “Leeches” and the Billboard-charting “Regret It,” Twilight Tales introduces Gane’s self-coined genre, “Mythic Trap,” positioning trap as high-concept world-building.
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