NRT's CHH contributor Joshua Galla collects what's new in Christian Hip-Hop and Urban Soul for the week of Friday, August 1, 2025. (Banner Photo: Blake Whiteley)
Each week, dozens of singles and a handful of projects are released in the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) and Urban Soul spaces. Below, we have listed a few highlights and included the rest for your review. As always, follow our New Christian Rap and Hip-Hop playlist on Spotify and Apple Music to listen to all the latest.
Blake Whiteley - "devil is a lie" NRT Music's Blake Whiteley drops his third single in 2025 titled, "devil is a lie." The powerful new single is a reminder that even in the face of discouragement, setbacks, and spiritual battles, God's voice is louder than the lies that try to define us. Produced by Ambush Beats and co-produced by Jonny Bravo, the song is a raw declaration of perseverance and identity found in Christ. Whiteley raps candidly about personal struggles, hard work, and the painful waiting seasons we often endure. Through relatable lyrics and a gritty, anthemic beat, he reminds listeners that God is faithful to complete the good work He started.
Whiteley shared some of his own remarks, "It's easy to feel defeated when the process feels long or overwhelming," Whiteley shares. "But this song is a reminder that we're exactly who God says we are. The enemy's voice may be loud, but it's a lie–and we don't have to listen to it." Stream "devil is a lie on Spotify and Apple Music.
nobigdyl. and KB - "REVIVAL!" The leader of indie tribe, nobigdyl., and Provident Music Group's KB realign for another certified classic. With the success of "King Jesus" (2022), it only made perfect sense to combine talents for a similar vibe. The single is a high-energy, moshpit-ready anthem. Produced by Kato On The Track, the record blends aggressive 808s with bold, unashamed lyricism about unapologetically bringing light into the darkest places. Built for the gym, the car, and the stadium, "REVIVAL!" pushes the boundaries and sound of CHH and hip-hop as a whole. Stream "REVIVAL!" on Spotify and Apple Music.
It's Reigning by Shiwan Nuflag artist Shiwan released one of his most artistic and personal examples of art to date. It's not just an album, but an audio cinematic experience. The project is a compelling, high-energy statement that blends theological confidence with sharp lyrical execution and crisp production. Known for his smooth cadence, thoughtful bars, and East Coast roots, Shiwan comes into this album sounding more focused and inspired than ever. The title, a clever double entendre on both spiritual sovereignty and artistic dominance, sets the tone for a record that’s as declarative as it is dynamic.
Favorites include "City on Fire," "Bloody Hands," and "Uncover the Veil." Although, it's difficult to just pinpoint specific tracks when the album presents itself more like a life soundtrack or chapter contents of a novel. Listeners genuinely need to complete a full "start-to-finish" approach to gain the artistic intent of what Shiwan intends to accomplish.
It’s Reigning isn’t just another CHH album—it’s a manifesto. Shiwan manages to merge doctrine, artistry, and cultural relevance in a way that feels authentic and unforced. He’s not imitating the mainstream; he’s offering an alternative that’s just as musically compelling, but rooted in eternal truth. Whether you’re deep in the CHH space or just discovering artists who rap with purpose and skill, It’s Reigning is a project worth your time. Shiwan proves he's not just participating in the genre—he’s helping define its future. Stream It's Reigning on Spotify here.
Kurtis Hoppie feat. Bizzle and Derek Ryan - "WHATUDOIN"
KJ-52 x Poetics - "Who's Idea Was This?"
Ruslan - "Miracles We All Believe"
Mike Teezy – “What You Ask For?”
TH3 Saga – Lio Rush – “WON’T UNDERSTAND”
Konata Small and GodFrame - "New Day"
Shepherd x Niko Eme x Alexxander – “Retirao”
Q-Flo x IAMOPB x DJ Mykael V feat. Glenn Ray, Prodi Da Prodigal, and Parris Chariz – “The Hilltop Cypher”
Ayo Shamir feat. tonyxtrotter, Yung Drew, and Christyan Scarborough – “All Dog$ Go To Heaven”
Will Kellum x K Diamond x Cru Alxndr x Evan Ford - "Fear II"
Jeannie Ortega – “Back to Brooklyn”
BASECAMP feat. YP aka Young Paul – “LORD’S DAY”
Kay Sade - "Waterfront"
Spencer Kane and Caleb LaDuke – “Accolades”
Bethany Cruz feat. Steven Malcolm - "Closer"
JustcallmeDT – “RETROGRADE II”
Dondi – “IT ARE WHAT IT ARE”
Henrik – “Interlocking”
Shama Mrema feat. Peabod - "SHADES"
Sam Tinnesz feat. Tedashii - "Like A Champion"
Solachi Voz feat. GODSVOIC3 & Key'ijah – “Knew Me”
KINS feat. Ana Lea – “safe with you.”
Israel Shalom & Foreword Nation – “Eres Mi Reina”
Jay Bizzze feat. Kham – “JAWBONE II”
JWOODZ feat. Microphone Boss - "Grand Jefe"
TIDES and Samsone - "WHAT CAN FLESH DO TO ME?"
Nu Tone feat. Tds Cam - "Lights"
B.E.R.I.D.O.X. and Pastor Charles A.R. – “Love You Forever”
Luke Hopp - "RUNNING ON EMPTY"
Joshua Luke Smith - "Let the light shine in"
Alvin Ray – “Trouble Don’t Last”
Bro Ivory – “Poor Man in Heaven”
DC3 - "DC3's Prayer"
Titus Haskins – “August”
Alvin Cedric – “Like That”
G3RM 43 - "Logic"
IMSOTUMELO - "Life Saving"
Johnny The Light Bearer - "MADE FOR THIS"
K3hlab feat. CJ Emulous & Xay Hill – “iPraise (REMIX)”
Dave Hall feat. Megan Tossi and Kayo Bracey – “Safe, Part II”
Mike Malagies - "God Blessed Me"
Lazarus! – “Fan”
Pragmatic feat. Simply Josiah and Dre Murray - "God's Temple"
LLC Flame feat. Levi and Trindade Records - "Era Eu"
Larell - "Worship While You Wait"
Craig Wallace feat. K Diamond - "Awesome God"
Efue – “History”
Mell Omii – “Trav Hit His Parlay”
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. He has been an NRT contributor since 2016.
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