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.
5ive feat. Derek Minor & Thi'sl - "Old Me" Texan Craig "5ive" James returns with his third single released from his next album, Me Against the World, Vol. 3, set to drop near the end of May. "Old Me" features Reflection Music Group's (RMG) Derek Minor and RMG Amplify's Thi'sl combining three veterans of CHH. These gentlemen are sold out for Christ in their actions and words as well as front runners in their respective communities helping black leaders thrive and assisting youth to excel.
Minor provides a welcomed extended talent as this is one of the first tracks, in some time, we hear him handling sole control of the hook. LIsteners are blessed with a harmonizing Minor, as he pulls it off quite well adding a fresh feel to the song. The track speaks to the transformation found in us before and after Christ. Both 5ive and Thi'sl speak to situations Christ delivered them from. Piano keystrokes take centerstage on the beat proving a chill experience throughout. It's basically a classic CHH sound reinvented. Listen to "Old Me" on Spotify here.
Mike Teezy - "Rolled the Stone Away" Being Easter weekend, we must highlight a track dedicated to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Fresh off of a win from the "King Jesus" freestyle contest, Teezy blesses everyone with an anthem for the holiday weekend. "Rolled the Stone Away" possesses that Sunday worship service vibe sprinkled with a fresh hip-hop sound. It's complete with a choir, organ, and even a melodic Teezy over autotune. The track celebrates what Jesus provides in our lives daily beginning with his resurrection from the grave three days after his crucifixion. The self-directed video speaks for itself accenting the beauty of the single. Stream "Rolled the Stone Away" on Spotify here and watch the video below.
The Loved One EP by Apex Frazier
Canadian independent rapper Apex Frazier releases his third project themed around faith, love, and relationships. The concept is theatrical in a sense of following the storyline of two main characters throughout the seven tracks included. The instrumentation deserves the same level of accolades as Frazier himself. The project crosses multiple sonic soundscapes. Listeners are treated to the sounds of acoustic and electric guitars, saxophone, piano chords, and a few surprises. The sporadic tempo changes on a few tracks are a welcomed inclusion testing Frazier's talents.
Favorite tracks include "Coffee Shop," "Too Long," and the opener "The Naturalist." One of the most enjoyable aspects of the project is the relatability to the reality of most young single men and women of faith face while navigating through relationships. Fans use music as an outlet. A voice to situations not easily handled alone. We see music as a window of common ground hearing how others face the same life obstacles as ourselves. Noah Brown is the only featured artist providing an even more transparent and personal touch by hearing the variety of emotions experienced. Frazier has one of the standout EPs of 2022 with this one. Stream The Loved One EP on Spotify here.
AD0E x International Show x Nachaash feat. QEW – “T3rd Day”
Joshua Galla is an audiophile hyped about all forms of art in music, but his passion rests behind CHH and soulful vibes. He's a devout husband, father, and child of God. Concerts are his happy place.
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