NRT's CHH contributor Joshua Galla collects what's new in Christian Hip-Hop and Urban Soul for the week of Friday, January 31, 2025. (Banner Photo: Hulvey)
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.
Hulvey - "BRING HEAVEN DOWN"
TIn just over a five-year period since signing with Reach Records in 2019, Hulvey unapologetically proclaims his unashamed attitude of worship, perseverance, growth, and remaining a vocal mouthpiece for the Kingdom of God. He’s released two albums, four EPs, and an impressive collection of impactful singles. Starting on February 11, Hulvey will embark on a 32-city tour aside indie tribe.’s nobigdyl. known as the All For You Tour.
His first single of 2025, “BRING HEAVEN DOWN,” resonates as some of his best expressive art released. The production fueling the overall soundscape mimics heavenly sounds boasting intense horns, a choir, and easily repeatable lyrics destined to remain stuck in the minds of listeners as they repeat the words throughout any given day. On his Instagram account, Hulvey confirmed this new single will be a part of the tour’s set list, so be prepared to memorize the lyrics from start to finish. Stream “BRING HEAVEN DOWN” on Spotify and Apple Music.
Fern feat. Derek Winkley - "OUTSIDE FOREVER" Social Club Misfits’Fern drops his first new music of 2025. “OUTSIDE FOREVER” was produced by Andrew Prim, mixed and mastered by Marty, and features Dove Award-Nominated songwriter Derek Winkley. The theme of the single resonates around outlasting the hard times and claiming victory during the good or wonderful seasons of life. The track stands as a constant reminder God is faithful regardless of the season, situation, or environment. God is bigger than anything we could ever face during this temporary life. Stream "OUTSIDE FOREVER" on Spotify and Apple Music.
Inner Exodus by 99 APEX
Rapzilla artist 99 APEX releases his first project in over a five-year timeframe. According to Rapzilla’s Justin Sarachik, the story of Inner Exodus dictates how God’s deliverance is possible from the imprisoned mind of an upcoming artist. 99 APEX expresses his struggles with mental health on both a personal and professional level. The Lord used his experiences to impart moral themes and life lessons both to 99 APEX and his entire fanbase. The storyline is smothered with themes of depression and anxiety; two emotions most of the average listeners can relate to and understand. Ultimately, the purpose of the content Inner Exodus possesses is a form of encouragement which God uses the least of us for the Kingdom. Also, God taps into our individual spiritual gifts showcasing them for all to see and witness firsthand leading to firsthand encounters with our Creator and Savior.
Favorites include “Vengeance,” “Heat,” and “Star Shining.” The eight-track project exhibits his prowess on the mic with either bars (“SHMG Freestyle”) or harmonies (“New”). The only two featured artists included are Travis Hobson and Creed Caldwell. Production was handled by a handful of talented creatives, but the fluid nature of the project has a certain collective energy to it. Stream Inner Exodus on Spotify here.
Darla Baltazar feat. Sarah Nathalie - "I'm (Really) Good"
Jackie Legare - "Said & Done"
DANMAR – “RIGHT THERE”
Zachary Heider – “Another Guy”
Pastor Charles A.R. – “Drought”
SNT. VINCENT feat. Legin – “Give Me Strength”
Sam Llanes feat. S Rayne Z - "LEAD"
grantdakidd – “IM SELFISH SOMETIMES”
Allen Thomas – “Holy Flex”
The Chris Al3x - “HE MADE ME SO”
Saint Retro – “XXL”
Luke Hopp – “INDIGO”
Will Dernes x bloody Candy feat. Vennisay - "Storm Outside"
Tyler J Music feat. Bryson Gray and Mission - "Time to Go to War (Remix)"
Peair – “Diner Talk (A Bad Date)”
Vennisay – “CHILL GUY”
Eli Wilson – “Yesterday”
okay troy – “OH NO”
Ashton Hills - "Muddy Waters"
Drup – “Howdy Partner (Fee Fi Fo Fum)”
Yaahn Hunter, Jr. feat. Ishiah - "Moment"
HEYMIKEIKE - "Limitless"
Alvin Cedric – “promise”
DreBeeze Da GodSon - "TDP"
Vessel feat. GCB and Tylan1K - "NO CAPE" and "MADE ME A WAY"
Big Rev. – “God’s Home”
Shola OG – “Testimony”
Mike Malagies - "Hard"
Lil Luke – “In My Zone”
Churemi and Benjiszzy Zaakii – “Far Away”
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. Contributor of NRT since 2016.
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