On “Flake,” his heartfelt hometown dedication to Portsmouth, Lebbs shines a light on an underappreciated scene — and places himself at the vanguard with jazzy rhymes.
Why We Like It: Desta French’s “Bendecida’”
On her recent single, “Bedecida’,” the London-based Latinx artist, Desta French, cuts a commanding fusion of heritage and hometown.
Why We Like It: Lit Lyk Looney’s “Twosday Eve”
Basking in success and indulging some excess, Lit Lyk Looney is on top of the game in the charismatic “Twosday Eve.”
Why We Like It: Izo FitzRoy’s “Little Birdie”
On “Little Birdie,” British soul singer Izo FitzRoy cuts an uplifting vision of tomorrow with a throwback to the styles of yesteryear.
Why We Like It: Tia Nomore & Stoni’s “Skirmish”
On their blockbuster link-up, Oakland emcees Tia Nomore and Stoni tear through The Bay, brandishing sharp bars as they literally bust blocks in the tongue-in-cheek music video for “Skirmish.”
Why We Like It: CimplyDan’s “South Side Livin’”
He mightn’t be a local quite yet, but on “South Side Livin’,” CimplyDan salutes Florida and feels very much at home. Lo-fi production tints the artist’s laid-back bars with accents of beaches and sunsets in the sunshine state.
Why We Like It: Louis Baker’s “Love Levitates”
“Love Levitates” moves with maturity, a striking fusion of pop sensibilities and jazz-inspired instrumentation that throws Louis Baker in the spotlight.
Why We Like It: Nate Husser’s “Sleep Like A Baby” Ft. Jean Deaux
Equal parts furious and fun, Nate Husser’s “Sleep Like A Baby” courts chaos with palpable glee, undeniable skill, and a mean Jean Deaux verse.
Why We Like It: Heidi’s “Make A Mess”
A tale of gun-toting affection and doomed romance, Heidi’s “Make A Mess” finds passion in a dangerous, seductive spiral.
Why We Like It: Dre Walton’s “When We Dance”
Dre Walton’s powerful performance elevates every aspect of “When We Dance,” from the story to the swing to the sensuality itself.
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