With so many new rap albums, mixtapes, EPs and songs dropping every week; knowing which ones are worth your time can be a challenge. But no worries, we’ll help smooth out the process with “Now N’ Laters,” a column that highlights the hottest new releases of the week and the songs you’ll want to listen to now — and later.
This week’s lineup includes the return of one of rap’s most celebrated stars, a new album from a maestro of the quintessential club banger, and a project from an artist leading the charge for street rap. Since kicking off the year with his seventh studio album, The Wizrd, Future doubles down with his second release of the year, SAVE ME. After providing one of the most infectious hits of his career with his Offset-assisted single “Taste,” Tyga looks to continue his trajectory with Legendary, the rapper’s seventh studio album. Meanwhile, Tee Grizzley reminds the public of why he’s considered one of the most respected lyricists in the streets with Scriptures, the Detroit native’s latest collection of testimonials.
With all three releases getting airplay and dominating the conversation, REVOLT shares our critics’ picks for the three songs from each project that stand a cut above the rest and should be in your heavy rotation now — and later. Be sure to let us know what your favorites are.
Future: SAVE ME
St. Lucia
Future takes listeners abroad on this standout inclusion from the Freebandz general’s latest release. Produced by K-Major and Fuse; who construct a rollicking instrumental compromised of 808s, synths and keys; this tune finds Future drawing inspiration from the serene views of the popular Caribbean tourist destination.
Shotgun
The late Seth Firkins collides with Detail, as the pair assume production duties on this impassioned salvo. Stretching his vocals atop measured piano keys and tumbling rounds of percussion, Future croons about his desire for the loyalty and companionship of a woman in one of the final collaborations between him and Firkins, who passed away unexpectedly in 2017.
Government Official
Future boasts about his diplomatic immunity and international ties with the likes of Vladimir Putin on this boisterous selection. Produced by FXXXXY, passports get stamped as Future takes his operations global.
Tyga: Legendary
Lightskin Lil Wayne
Tyga envisions himself as a lighter-hued version of his former Young Money compatriot Lil Wayne on this slapper from his latest LP. Produced by Boi-1da, this selection coaxes a spirited performance from Tyga and includes commentary from Weezy himself, who appraises himself as a boss while debriefing the listeners on his decorated resume.
On Me
Tyga phones in Tunechi to join him for this collaboration. Produced by Dupri, this pulsating number has the makings of a strip club anthem, as Weezy and Tyga trade quote-worthy stanzas atop a boisterous backdrop.
February Love
Romance is in the air on this sultry offering from Tyga, who gets sentimental over production from D.A. Doman. Reuniting with Chris Brown, who turns in a clutch performance while delivering the track’s syrupy hook, Tyga slows down the tempo on this cut that is sure to have fans pining for the pair to reprise their Fan Of A Fan series.
Tee Grizzley: Scriptures
God’s Warrior
Tee Grizzley kicks off his latest solo set with this confessional number, revealing his homicidal intent over a thunderous drums and fluttery synths. Produced by Timbaland, Federico Vindver, Shucati, and Angel Lopez, the multi-faceted backdrop is accentuated by Grizzley’s sinewy flow.
Sweet Thangs
Tales of larceny and deceit are spewed on this solemn selection, which doubles as the second single released from Tee Grizzley’s new collection. Building the beat with an epic round of horns, Timbaland layers jittery percussion atop piano keys.
Heroes
Keanu Beats and Timbaland connect to helm the boards on this offering. Showing his reverence for those willing to take penitentiary chances, Grizzley pays his respects in the midst of spitting about the trappings of his lifestyle.
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