#36 - Starringo, Christopher Syncere, YJO, & More...
NRT's CHH contributor Joshua Galla collects what's new in Christian Hip-Hop and Urban Soul for the week of Friday, January 22, 2021. (Photo: Starringo)
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.
Painful Pleasures by Starringo For the past three years, Starringo has rekindled the art of storytelling for the streets shouting the name of our Lord along the way. Ringo is honest in his lyrical expression and delivery certifying his art as some of the best. Often found on a track with Aha Gazelle, he breathed life back into Southern hip-hop. Painful Pleasures expresses how the walk with Christ isn't for the weak. Ringo gathers all the things of the world, the sin, the struggles, real-life situations being worked on through the love of God. He's a success story, a survivor from the streets equipped with the Gospel. An answer to life on the streets. Some favorites off the album are "No Sunshine," "Good Kid, Bad City," and "Thinkin' Too Deep." On the flip side of the production throughout, the thing I noticed most was the variety. Not a set style or cadence. Ringo also switches up his flow close to perfection adding flavor to the project. Life music at it's finest. Ringo exemplifies how Jesus loves us in all walks of life and all levels of faith. Check the album out and receive your blessing as I did throughout 11 tracks.
Christopher Syncere - "Eastside Hero"
Last week, Christopher Syncere announced he inked a deal with NXT Move teaming up with YB, COOP., and Henrik. This single is the first release under the new label. The driving high hats are a solid touch adding to the overall energy of the track. Syncere blesses the track with his usual double time mastery of wordplay. He remains in the pocket while listeners constantly nod their heads close to three minutes. The track opens curiosity to what a first project may sound like under the new lable. Syncere will be one to watch.
YJO feat. Byron Juane - "Toe Tag"
EnochFlow Records' YJO and Reflection Music Group's (RMG) Byron Juane tag team the new track for 2021. YJO is prominently known among the CHH space and indie community as a solid producer besides the fact he's a solid emcee. The production is simply erratic, catchy, and a certified vibe. What grabbed me was the hook from the track. By the conclusion of the track, it echoed in my mind and out my mouth (mission accomplished). Listeners get a few tastes of Juane's return to rapping as a side dish. Overall, a solid track.
