#269 - Derek Minor, Anike, Miles Minnick, & More...
NRT's CHH contributor Joshua Galla collects what's new in Christian Hip-Hop and Urban Soul for the week of Friday, April 3, 2026. (Banner Photo: Derek Minor)
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.
Derek Minor - "UP" Reflection Music Group’s co-founder and quintessential artist Derek Minor drops his second single of 2026. Respectfully known for his massive stadium-driven anthemic bangers, Minor tones the vibe and tempo down a bit for his latest single. “UP” is a chilled-out and relaxed sizzler about trusting God through any high or low life surprises people with daily. The record captures the tension between success, doubt, pressure, and perseverance.
Centered on the unwavering belief that God never lets you down, the song reflects on humble beginnings, present victories, and the ongoing battle of the mind. With confident delivery and honest vulnerability, it reminds listeners that faith is a daily practice — and that patience, trust, and gratitude matter more than money or status. The producer, Chino Dollaz, provides a Motown-like vibe borrowed straight from classic 70s perfection. Overall, it’s soul-driven, peaceful, and smothered with reminders of God’s faithfulness. Stream “UP” on Spotify and Apple Music.
Anike - "HOLY GIRLS! (WERK)" Reach Records’ Anike has never been one to play it safe, and "HOLY GIRLS! (WERK)" is a bold, high-octane reclamation of both her sound and her identity. Released as part of her transition into this new era, the track is a masterclass in "fem-hop" that balances spiritual conviction with a club-ready bounce. The production is sharp, utilizing a heavy bassline and a rhythmic, almost hypnotic vocal chop that demands movement. It is unapologetically feminine, confident, and energetic.
The “holy girls anthem” of sorts is drenched in biblical teachings. Anike pulled from Proverbs 31 as well as 1 Corinthians 3:11-13 before igniting one fire lyrical barrage after another. Anike declared, “I dedicated my life to living out the word and it hasn’t failed me yet. The fruit always reflects and testifies of God’s goodness time and time again.” It’s not a phase, but a lifestyle. Stream “HOLY GIRLS! (WERK)” on Spotify and Apple Music.
Somerville by Miles Minnick Miles Minnick has spent the last few years cementing himself as the undisputed face of "Holy & Hyphy." Following his historic performance at Rolling Loud and the success of Via Dolorosa, the Bay Area native returns with Somersville, an album that feels like a homecoming and a victory lap rolled into one. Named after a historic mining town in his NorCal stomping grounds, Somersville isn't just a collection of "slaps for the soul” - the project is a testament to staying grounded while your career reaches new heights.
From the first beat, Somersville leans heavily into the signature West Coast bounce that Minnick has mastered. Produced in part by Tre Wright and 4CEN, the project maintains a high-octane energy that refuses to let up. The lead single, "WAY I LIVE" (feat. Aha Gazelle), is an instant standout. The chemistry between Minnick’s rapid-fire delivery and Aha’s quirky, melodic flow creates a dynamic contrast that highlights the album's theme: living out faith in a way that is authentic, loud, and unapologetic.
“WHERE HE AT” featuring the latest GLO. collective signee Lul DreDay is a bass-heavy banger that proves you don't have to sacrifice "the knock" to deliver a gospel-centered message. “CALL EM’” represents a masterclass in iconic West Coast flow leaning towards where Minnick’s charisma shines brightest. "GRACE" featuring fellow collective member Tommy Zuko is a personal favorite.
Somersville is Minnick at his most confident. He has successfully bridged the gap between the church and the culture, creating music that sounds just like home in a packed arena as it does in a Sunday morning youth group. While the album stays largely within the high-energy "hyphy" lane, its consistency is its strength. If you’re looking for a project that combines top-tier production with a bold, Christ-centered identity, Somersville is a mandatory listen. Minnick isn't just making music; he’s leading a movement, and Somersville is the perfect soundtrack for it.
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.
NEW!BEHIND THE SONG
#1296 - Mary-Clair
A candid conversation about faith, vulnerability, and finding God
ADVERTISEMENT
NEW!MOVIE REVIEW Miracle
NRT reviews the new movie after attending the premiere
NEW!SERIES REVIEW
A Night At Wingfeather
We attended the show's premiere of the Angel Studios animated show
NEW!NRT LISTS
Worship Into 2026
Standout new worship releases that invite the Church to sing and reflect
NEW!THE CHH DROP
#261 - Gavin the Hotrod
What's new this week in Christian rap and hip-hop
