R&B/Hip-Hop Fresh Picks of the Week Featuring New Voices and Notable Collaborations

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. Celebrating Women in Music
4. Featured Tracks of the Week
5. Implications for New Artists
6. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Fresh Releases: This week's Fresh Picks feature standout tracks from artists like JT, TheARTI$t, Jada Kingdom, and Lil Durk, highlighting the diverse sounds of contemporary R&B and hip-hop.
• Women in Music Week Celebration: The Billboard Women in Music event will honor influential women in the industry, such as Erykah Badu and Doechii, exemplifying the powerful contributions of female artists in these genres.

Introduction

As spring ushers in warmer weather and renewed energy, the realm of R&B and hip-hop blossoms with fresh sounds and promising talent. Surprising engagement statistics from recent streaming data illustrate that female artists are not only topping the charts but revolutionizing the genre itself. This week, as Billboard transitions into a celebratory mood for Women in Music Week, we pay tribute to ground-breaking contributions from artists like JT and the up-and-coming voices pushing the boundaries of hip-hop.

From nostalgic Y2K beats to contemporary narratives of resilience and self-empowerment, the selected tracks serve as a testament to the vibrancy of the genre. Each song encapsulates a unique story, mirroring the artists' diverse backgrounds and experiences while expanding the sonic landscape of R&B and hip-hop.

Celebrating Women in Music

The 2025 Billboard Women in Music event, hosted by Emmy winner Laverne Cox on March 29, promises to be a landmark occasion, recognizing the profound impacts women have made in the music industry. The evening will honor a slate of talented women, spotlighting Erykah Badu with the prestigious Icon Award and Doechii, who recently scored her first Hot 100 top 10 hit, as Woman of the Year.

Notable Honorees

• Erykah Badu: Celebrated for her artistic innovation and impact, Badu has influenced generations of artists.
• Doechii: Fresh off her success, her rise signifies the increasing prominence of female voices in hip-hop.
• Glorilla: Named this year’s Powerhouse honoree, her trajectory reflects the mainstream acceptance of diverse hip-hop narratives.
• Muni Long: Her winning of the Rising Star Award underlines the excitement surrounding her artistic journey.

The Significance of Recognition

Acknowledging women's contributions transcends mere celebration; it inspires upcoming artists and fosters a supportive community, reinforcing the notion that the music industry is increasingly welcoming diverse perspectives and stories. The event represents a crucial moment for artists and fans alike, illustrating the evolution of a once male-dominated arena.

Featured Tracks of the Week

JT – “Ran Out”

JT returns fiercely with “Ran Out,” a track that melds nostalgia with an anthem-like quality. The Miami rapper's lyrics effortlessly capture themes of perseverance and money, embodying the carefree vibe of early 2000s hip-hop through a contemporary lens. Collaborating with innovative producers like Ben10k and Danes Blood, the track features catchy hooks designed for summer playlists.

“Had to stay down, bitches ran out / My card ain’t work, so I ran out,” — JT.

Nettspend feat. Xaviersobased – “Impact”

Virginia’s Nettspend and NYC’s Xaviersobased join forces in their collaborative track “Impact,” showcasing the synergy between two Gen-Z rising stars. With dreamy AutoTune and a chorus that resonates with youthful exuberance, the song juxtaposes discussions of wealth with light-hearted commentary on consumer culture. This collaboration exemplifies the modern fusion of geographic influences within hip-hop.

FLO feat. Chy Cartier – “Get It Till I’m Gone (Remix)”

This remix amplifies the original’s themes of empowerment, transforming a narrative of loss into a powerful declaration of self-worth. FLO and Chy Cartier’s relentless energy shines through, offering listeners a catchy anthem that pivots away from heartbreak and towards reclamation and independence.

“Walking away is the ultimate flex,” — FLO.

Lil Durk feat. Jhené Aiko – “Can’t Hide It”

Expressing vulnerability, Lil Durk’s “Can’t Hide It” collaborates with the ethereal vocals of Jhené Aiko to craft a romantic yet raw anthem. Amid pending legal troubles, Durk’s introspection stands in stark contrast to Aiko’s tranquil harmonies, creating an emotional depth that resonates with listeners.

“Love’s a battlefield... I can’t hide it,” — Lil Durk.

TheARTI$T – “Ghost”

TheARTI$t's “Ghost” explores the haunting emotions of a past relationship while weaving vivid imagery of love’s fleeting nature. The emotional depth and reflective quality in their lyrics connect deeply with audiences, echoing sentiments related to loss and nostalgia against a backdrop of soulful instrumentation.

Jada Kingdom – “G.A.D.”

Jada Kingdom’s latest single takes an empowering stance, flipping derogatory comparisons of women to drugs on their head. The lyrics illustrate a strong feminist narrative while encouraging self-love and independence in a societal landscape that often imposes unrealistic standards on women. Her bold choices in both songwriting and delivery make it an essential listen.

Wolfacejoeyy – “Petty”

Wolfacejoeyy delivers a playful jab at modern relationships through “Petty,” turning heartbreak and competition into a catchy exploration of ego and self-satisfaction. By incorporating themes of material successes, the track encapsulates the often superficial dynamics that play out on social media platforms.

“Toxicity sounds effortlessly cool,” — Wolfacejoeyy.

Shoreline Mafia – “Back in Bidness”

Reflecting on their long-awaited comeback, Shoreline Mafia’s “Back in Bidness” signifies a resurgence in West Coast hip-hop. The track is peppered with nostalgic references while simultaneously showcasing their evolution as artists. This release comes at a time when the genre is experiencing a renaissance, thanks to the rise of artists like Kendrick Lamar and his contemporaries.

Reign – “Lowjacc”

Brooklyn rapper Reign captures the attention with "Lowjacc," a track that balances braggadocio with insights on life experiences. His rapid-fire delivery and sharp lyrics offer a glimpse into the realities faced by the next generation of hip-hop artists.

“Run this town, you gotta build a f–king rapport,” — Reign.

Nija – “32nd Floor”

Nija’s sultry “32nd Floor” invites listeners into a dreamy, romantic scenario. The production mixes soft guitar melodies with contemporary R&B elements, creating a beautifully layered track that showcases her growth as an artist since her last release.

Implications for New Artists

The blend of established voices and emerging talents highlights the dynamic nature of the R&B and hip-hop scenes. With women taking center stage and collaborations across geographic boundaries becoming commonplace, the genre continues to evolve. As new artists carve out their niche, the industry welcomes innovation, emphasizing the importance of authentic stories and diverse experiences.

In this context, the role of platforms like Billboard in showcasing such diverse talent is not only essential for fostering upcoming stars but also for affirming the increasingly collaborative spirit of the music community. Highlighting new releases weekly encourages listeners to remain engaged, highlighting the importance of continuous exploration within the ever-dynamic world of R&B and hip-hop.

FAQ

What is Billboard Women in Music Week?

Billboard Women in Music Week is an annual celebration recognizing the contributions of women in the music industry, featuring a series of events culminating in an award ceremony.

Who are some artists being honored this year?

This year’s honorees include Erykah Badu, who will receive the Icon Award, Doechii as Woman of the Year, and Muni Long, awarded the Rising Star Award.

Where can I find the latest Fresh Picks?

You can find Billboard's Fresh Picks playlist on Spotify, which includes new releases from the article and other emerging artists in R&B and hip-hop.

How is the music industry recognizing new talent?

Through initiatives such as Women in Music Week, music charts, and playlists designed to highlight emerging artists, the industry adapts to changing demographics and listening habits, prioritizing diversity and innovation.

Why is women’s representation in music important?

Increasing women’s presence in music not only provides visibility but also promotes equity within the industry, inspiring future generations while enriching the artistic landscape.

This week’s Fresh Picks present an essential snapshot of the vibrant, evolving landscape of R&B and hip-hop, inviting listeners to explore and embrace new sounds and stories.