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 and Apple Music to listen to all the latest.
Child Like EP by Coop
The recently signed NXT MOVE artist, Coop, drops his third project in two years titled, Child Like. It's a 5-track recollection of his foundation at home, in his art, and speaks to his bright future ahead. Also, it's literally based on the snapshot moment captured on the cover art. The project was produced by 100GRAHAM and mixed by JXHN PVUL. Coop. has released two full-length albums with this being his first EP released.
My favorite track off the EP would be the third offering, "Story Time, Pt. 2." Most emcees take years to craft their art to a point where storytelling feels natural whereas this 19-year old rapper embraces the skill like a vet. He details out memories from his parents unfolding how God's hands have covered his family from early beginnings. The production from 100GRAHAM goes crazy on this effort too. It rides so, so effortlessly as the soundtrack to Coop's memories turned into crafty sixteens.
Coop's wordplay takes center stage on "9000 hours" showcasing how this boy can rap, rap! "Earthquake" possesses a hook embedded in my mind due to just how catchy it rings from ear to ear. For some reason, "Home Run Derby" forces images from a movie titled, "The Sandlot" to mind. Innocent fun in our childhood with neighborhood friends. Also, rhyme schemes go crazy with this one, "I remember when my faith was Child-like / Heaven in the music that's what every song would sound like / I knew God gave me purpose inside a sound bite / Somehow I knew everything would be alright."
Coop has himself one of the best efforts of 2021 in EP form. Listen to Child Like on Spotify here.
nobigdyl. feat. Mogli the Iceberg - "OUTSIDE" The indie tribe. duo of Dyl. and Mogli starts anew with the single “OUTSIDE.” It’s easy to see this as a summertime anthem for the upcoming season. Mogli destroyed the hook with a harmonious offering of freedom echoing between eardrums with the words, “I talk to God when I’m walking outside.” I’m unsure why these two didn’t take this approach long before as between Dyl’s bars and Mogli’s strong vocal presence; a perfect match. Dyl speaks on life events such as his time on a major label, hitting the reset button (of sorts) emotional turbulence, and God’s sovereignty through it all. Check out the video below and listen to “OUTSIDE” on Spotify here.
CZAR Josh feat. KHAM & seni. - "Regal"
Culture Villains’ CZAR Josh releases his first single of 2021 with collective mate KHAM and long-time friend seni. The track is a southern-infused banger celebrating their culture, accomplishments, and talents inspired by the cult classic film “Coming to America.” CZAR Josh is collaborating with the black empowerment brand Nappy Ave to release exclusive apparel highlighting the single. KillaWatts slew the production while seni. amped up the hook from the track combining everything into a surefire hit for weekend playlists everywhere. Listen to “Regal” on Spotify here.
