NRT's CHH contributor Joshua Galla collects what's new in Christian Hip-Hop and Urban Soul for the week of Friday, September 11, 2020 (Photo: Roy Tosh)
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.
Beautiful Chaos EP by Roy Tosh RMG Amplify's Roy Tosh releases a fun, energetic new EP with a title fit for Christians everywhere. Regardless of the chaotic times we're surrounded by and live within, we can rest in comfort, peace, and joy as God has ensured our protection and everlasting love. Three of the five tracks included have previously been released as singles leading up to the EP drop. The two new songs are "No Breaks" and "Toxic." The title track includes labelmate Danielle Apicella expressing how God's always there to rescue us from the chaos of life regardless of the situation. "Not Afraid" branches off the idea of God's security and strong tower we as Christians can run to when in trouble. The entire EP has a soothing vibe. It's laid back. It's something you can just rest your body to, close your eyes, and escape to the grace and love God provides. Be sure to give this one a spin this weekend!
DJ Mykael V feat. NOT KLYDE & lil Xian - "Poolside"
In the words of DJ Mykael V, "the summer ain't over 'til I say it's over!" People refer to him as the "Christian DJ Khaled," as he bridges CHH heavyweights and brings the best of our their sound over infectious production and 808s. This time around, Mykael V invited the unique NOT KLYDE and seventh grader (yes, you heard me right) lil Xian. The duo brings the certified end-of-the-summer heat "Poolside" before the leaves start turning and gallons of pumpkin spice lattes are consumed. The cover art is one of my favorites from the entire year too. This single deserves to be played over and over, then one more time.
KHAM - "UHAUL"
Culture Villains' KHAM is back with yet another summer single this time discussing his roots and personal experiences on the come up. He taps into a new experimental sound for his third single of 2020. The Enzo Gran-produced record finds KHAM crooning about the high and lows of his life as he tries to strive for his dreams while being a first-generation Guyanese-American. He also speaks about having to pack up a figurative U-haul truck filled with his hopes and goals as he struggles with the harsh truth of his reality. KHAM slows it down and enters into story-telling mode speaking of his childhood, life in general to date. As usual, he remains honest and transparent exposing himself so God may be glorified.
