Each week, dozens of singles and a handful of projects are released in the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) and Urban Soul spaces. Below, we listen to a few highlights and list the rest for your own discovery. As always, follow our New Christian Rap & Hip Hop playlist on Spotify to listen to all the latest.
Restoration by Lecrae Reach Records co-owner and heavyweight rapper Lecrae releases what may be the last full-length studio album of his 16-year career and counting. The 14-track collection contents may be his most intimate and transparent material to date. Through a video documentary and a soon-to-be-released second book (I Am Restored: How I Lost My Religion, But Found My Faith), Lecrae Moore spills his heart and mind upon his artistic offerings to fans worldwide of what has occurred in his life, as a rapper, and in the spotlight. Three singles were released prior to the album's street date - "Set Me Free" feat. YK Osiris, "Drown" feat. John Legend, and "Zombie" (see video below). My favorite tracks aside from these are "Wheels Up" feat. Mark E. Bassy and "Sunday Morning" feat. Kirk Franklin. That track just inspires! NRT's own Dwayne Lacy will be posting a detailed review of this album release in the near future.
Aaron Cole feat. NOT KLYDE & Parris Chariz - "WATER 4 ME" If you have followed any of Aaron Cole's social media content for the past month, you would've noticed a collection of CHH artists, friends, and fans submitting videos asking for the release of "Water." Well, friends, the single has arrived while Gotee's Cole teamed up independent artist NOT KLYDE and World45's Parris Chariz. The trio has simply provided the culture with an end-of-the-summer anthem as the track vibes on several levels throughout. The lyricism. The hook. The melodies. Even the video is brilliant as Cole brings 110% effort as always. NOT KLYDE doesn't showcase his talents often, but when he's featured or spotlighted; it's always worth an immediate listen. He only knows how to throw together hits with his contributions. Chariz is quickly growing into a refined heavyweight across CHH. Even though the summer has nearly concluded, this track is a favorite by far!
Jenna Wright feat. Brady James & Jaylon Ashaun - "Lose It" The up and coming soulful beast found in Jenna Wright is quickly gaining traction throughout the Urban Soul space. She tagged one of the leaders of the space, Jaylon Ashaun, and a fast-rising Brady James. My only complaint is the track is far too short. Wright's voice continues to condition into excellence with every single released. She joins the likes of Danielle Apicella, DONDI, Charlene Nash, itstaylormade, among others as young females killing it with their vocal prowess. Ashaun and James compliment her respectively tagging the track as well rounded.
