This year of new rap and R&B music releases has started out full of surprises to say the least. Most of this year's standout tracks are from newcomers (SexxyRed) and artists ending their hiatus without prior warning (6Lack). Even some of today's stars dropping are coming with surprises of their own, making dramatic shifts in their latest project's sound and subject matter (Lil Yachty). Nonetheless, the latest offerings are a breath of fresh air and feeding anticipation for what's to come later this year. Let's dive into the best rap and r&b songs of 2023 so far.
Young Thug – “Oh U Went” ft Drake
Young Thug’s new surprise album Business is Business couldn’t have come at a better time. His presence in the game is missed and it isn’t a proper summer in rap without him. Still, the Atlanta rapper has plenty of music in the chamber and “Oh U Went” is a gem that needed to see a release. It’s something about Thug’s uncanny delivery and bars that blends in with the vibrant Stylistics sample to scream a boat party in Miami somewhere. Given his chemistry on collaborations with Drake, this is potential single that could make an impact in the clubs and the charts. Free Jeffery.
Lil Yachty – "Strike (Holster)"
Lil Yachty has easily been one of the most enjoyable rappers so far this year. The rapper is riding high off the momentum coming from last year’s surprise standout single “Poland”, signifying a dramatic shift in his sound. He hasn’t slowed down since then, shocking fans with his psych-alternative LP Let’s Start Here, met to positive reviews. Before his run could even slow down, Yachty used his virality to his advantage to drop his latest loosie, “Strike (Holster)”.
Like his last single, the release for “Strike” was fueled by massive social media fanfare after snippets surfaced online. Powered by extraterrestrial production, Yachty shifts back to rap and mixes the muddy with his melodies. The track is as energetic as it is catchy, containing memorable lines that listeners can’t help repeating constantly. As the rapper prepares for his upcoming tour and festival lineups, the song will cause crowds to erupt.
“I don’t put no crushed ice in my soda, Percy got her stuck like a hollllllster”
Babyface Ray ft 42 Dugg – "Ron Artest"
After an incredible run in 2022, Babyface Ray came back ready to make more waves this year with his newest single “Ron Artest”. Anticipation for the song originally began when it leaked and gained traction. It didn’t take long for the unreleased song to become an instant fan-favorite by even Metta World Peace himself (fka Ron Artist). Atop of a high-pitched sample loop, Ray delivers with his signature smooth flow, jumping in and out of pockets throughout his verse.
“Live and effect, Ron Artest,
Counted me out, came back, I’m a champ”
Fellow Detroit spitter 42 Dugg makes an appearance, closing out the track with a strong verse of his own. The song is another banger for Babyface Ray and hopefully a sign that more music from him is coming soon.
Ice Spice & Nicki Minaj – "Princess Diana"
There’s not a song that perfectly summarizes Ice Spice’s meteoric rise more than “Princess Diana”. While critics questioned if her first hit would be her last, the Bronx bombshell silenced them with her Like..? EP, one of the most successful debuts of 2023. “Princess Diana” is a textbook example of the rapper’s starpower, winning listeners over with her drill-style cadence and Y2K-inspired lyrics, which are both delivered effortlessly. Everything about the bouncy track embodies the fun, glitz and glamour of her sound that commands attention when she drops.
So it was only right when Nicki Minaj hopped on the remix to give it the Barbz treatment. The rap icon fit into place, gracing the track with a fiery verse of her own. With Nicki signing the rising star to her new label and their recent collaboration for the Barbie movie soundtrack, we can expect a few more hits on the way from the duo.
Veeze – “GOMD”
As Detroit’s hip-hop reign continues, Veeze is the latest to emerge onto the national spotlight. While he hasn’t released much since 2019, his recent feature verses and leaks have propelled him to the top of his city’s current movement. He’s become known for his unorthodox flows and funny one-liners delivered in the most nonchalant way possible. “GOMD” is no different.
The high-energy production on the track meshes well with Veeze’s cool and calm delivery. The self-proclaimed 7 Mile Popstar even got rap star Lil Uzi Vert to drop some bars for the remix. With his forthcoming project Ganger out now, Veeze’s momentum will carry him to being one of the hottest acts in rap today.
Kendrick Lamar & Baby Keem – “thehillbillies”
Baby Keem and Compton Cowboy Kendrick going back and forth over a Bon Iver drill flip is the summer 2023 mood. The pgLang pair have become disruptors in rap when they collaborate, delivering polarizing, unorthodox bangers. Their latest track “thehillibillies” continues the lineage as the pair take turns rapping in hilariously monotone manners that somehow work or take away from the production’s energy. EVILGAINE injects a bounce into this beat that Kendrick and Keem coast across in the most unserious way possible.
The song is another example of how the two cousins bring interesting sides out of each other musically. Baby Keem always finds a way to have his rapping abilities standout or compete for the spotlight with Lamar. On the other hand, Keem brings out a colorful side of Kendrick that encourages him to just have fun with it. As lyrically dazzling as Kendrick can be, it’s fun to hear him freeform flows about Big Macs in Germany and offer sluggish ad-libs as Keem raps about his current love life affairs.
It straddles the fence between confusing, chaotic, and comical, but “thehillbillies” is undoubtedly captivating.
Summer Walker ft. J Cole – “To Summer, From Cole”
The alternate title for the song is “Audio Hug” and that’s exactly what it sounds like. For her latest project, Summer Walker stripped down her usual chart-topping sound and delivered one of the best R&B projects this year. The minimalist production approach leaves plenty of room for the singer to fill up the space with some of her most candid songwriting as of late. Highlights are filled throughout the Clear 2 EP, but the intro sets the tone like the intro, “To Summer, From Cole”. The subtle drums and piano keys bring you live into the studio to hear her emerge with her bare vocals murmuring a simple mantra. Everything about the airy production gives the song an intimate feel, offering a therapy session to every listener.
Once the mood is set, J Cole arrives to deliver a heartfelt verse in dedication to Ms. Walker. Majority of his notable features stand out for his lyrical prowess, but this one shines due to its level of emotional vulnerability. Line after line, Cole blankets Summer with admiration and warmth in ways that can’t be ignored. Some tracks are to be heard, but “To Summer, From Cole” is made to be felt.
Doja Cat – “Attention”
At long last, Doja SZN is coming! One of the most anticipated albums of 2023 looks to be on the horizon as the polarizing pop star releases the lead single, “Attention”. Looking to scrap away her sound for something more rap-focused and thought-provoking, the track definitely says a lot. It begins as an alluring track with its chorus that quickly becomes the ultimate middle to naysayers critiquing her appearance, music, and lifestyle. The low-tone kailedoscopic, jazzy production gives the song a spoken word feel as Doja reaffirms comfortability within her own skin and not a care for those saying otherwise. As her upcoming project draws influences from The Scarlett Letter novel, it matches the reclamation of power after public scrutiny, similar to the character. Whatever is in store, “Attention” is a sign that Doja still has a lot to say.
Doechii “What It Is” ft Kodak Black
Doechii has been one of the latest female rap phenoms to emerge and her latest single is just another example of her natural stardom. Ahead of her anticipated project expected to drop this year, she released an appetizer that didn’t disappoint. “What It Is” feels like a 2000s ode to the South with its hard organ keys and thin synths. The Tampa artist keeps the connection in Florida, grabbing South Florida rapper Kodak Black for a verse.
The uptempo love ballad dedicated to the “block boys” is a smash that’s achieving commercial and viral success. Not just because it’s a fun record, but because Doechii has honed her duality as a hip-hop and pop artist. The Swamp Princess is only warming up.
Burna Boy – “Sittin’ On Top Of The World”
Nigerian superstar Burna Boy has been “Sittin’ On Top Of The World” for the past few years and his newest track is a well-fitting victory lap. Driven by a Brandy sample and funky bassline, the Grammy-award winner lives the high life and basks in the moment. This is the type of feel-good summer staple the “African Giant” has become known for. With his latest single, Burna Boy reminds fans that his mainstream reign isn’t coming down anytime soon.
Gunna – “Fukumean”
Amidst all the controversy, Gunna comes right on time and returns with his album, “A Gift & A Curse”. The “Drip Season” rapper’s latest album is packed with numerous standout moments, including the track “fukumean”. On here, his solo star power takes front and carries the energy from beginning to end. The Dunk Rock production sounds tailored for Gunna as he takes it to another level with his signature flow. Even after some time away, Gunna sounds sharp as ever with his hitmaking abilities still intact.
Tyler, The Creator – “What a Day”
Even with a deluxe album, Tyler still manages to release one of the best albums this year. The Estate Sale is a continuation of his Grammy-winning LP Call Me If You Get Lost and doesn’t disappoint. “What a Day” is an immaculate Madlib production that Tyler uses to release every feeling he’s recently undergone. As all his aspirations come full-circle, the song is a reflection of what’s happening behind the scenes and who he’s been along the journey. Everything from relationships to his workaholic tendencies and influence comes to light.
I’d rather get these ideas off, I’d rather not steer off my path,
I’m so scared of going back to my past, I work, I swear it’s hard not shaking that fear off,
White boy said ‘I brag too much’, the black kid said ‘it’s inspiring’, duality’s inspiring,
For three minutes, Tyler vents and raps his ass off, with his only breaks coming from a serene loop and DJ Drama filling space with monologues at all the right times. While Tyler is most likely searching for a new sound for his next project, the CMIYGL era has been special to witness.
Latto – “Put It On Da Floor Again” ft Cardi B
It's clear Latto has another hit on her hands with “Put It On The Floor”. The Atlanta rapper takes her sound to a Detroit beat and blacks out for two minutes. As soon as the track drops, Latto fills it up with more quotables than a press conference. “Rip me out the plastic, I been acting brand new” is a summer mood like none other.
The song was everywhere as springtime picked up and it’s back again for the summer as Cardi B continues her feature run on the remix. The Bronx-bred superstar consistently delivers standout guest performances and her latest is no different. She picks up where Latto leaves off and doesn’t waste a second on her closing verse. Smoking on two enemy packs before you even get your first four bars out is different. "Put It On The Floor Again" is easily one of the best rap records fans will hear this year.
Kaliii – “Area Codes”
It’s not a color or tone that Kali doesn’t have on her roster in her latest single “Area Codes”. Since the track’s release in March, it’s been gaining major traction, securing Kali’s first Billboard Hot 100 entry. The femme player anthem is a jam, as the “Toxic Chocolate” MC keeps her profits over her pleasure. The minimalistic, lunch table-influenced production leaves plenty of space for her dazzling delivery to shine.
SexxyRedd – “Poundtown” ft Nicki Minaj
If there’s any frontrunners for 2023's summer anthems, SexxyRedd’s viral record “Poundtown” should be in the conversation. There isn’t a more infectious rap song released this year than the St.Louis rapper’s unfiltered track. It’s sexually provocative, it’s meme worthy, and more importantly, it’s a certified hit. The moment Tay Keith’s trunk-rattling production turns on, it’s hard to not sing along to the audacious lyrics.
“I’m out of town, thuggin’ with my roundssssssssss”
What started out as a freestyle for the rapper turned into one of this year’s most addictive rap records. Just when listeners thought the track couldn’t get any better, Nicki Minaj jumped on the remix with a raunchy verse of her own.
Larry June & The Alchemist – “Porsches in Spanish”
Larry June and The Alchemist’s album cut “Porsches in Spanish” is some of the smoothest music you’ll hear all year. The San Francisco rapper’s ultra-cool delivery paired with the legendary producer’s pristine ear for samples does numbers on their joint project, The Great Escape. “Porsches in Spanish” captures the essence of a cruise off the California coast with its relaxing, soulful feel. This chorusless album cut is a prime example of the magic that comes from these two worlds colliding.
Jorja Smith – "Little Things"
Only Jorja Smith can take some jazzy house music and find a way to deliver some heat for the summer. The UK singer is returning with her full-length this fall and her latest single “Little Things” is leading the way. The uptempo ode to lust at first sight is exactly the vibe we need for the warm nights ahead. Inspired by ‘rum, ting, and a magnum’, the song is a rendezvous rave romance that Jorja narrates beautifully. Jorja hasn’t dropped in two years and “Little Things” shows she’s not missing a beat. As the late night adventures begin to roll in, this song is definitely one to keep in rotation.
Janelle Monae – “Water Slide”
Janelle Monae is back breathing new air and letting boundaries go for her latest album, The Art of Pleasure. Stepping away from her usual futuristic conceptual records, the project is where fun, fantasy, and femininity reside in harmony. Listening to songs like “Water Slide”, the vocalist happy bares herself and sings of sexual liberation like it’s sunshine. Whether the record makes you feel like a million dollars in your skin or makes your hip sway (probably both), “Water Slide” is guaranteed to brighten your day.
Jack Harlow – "Denver"
Since reaching stardom, Jack has had little time to balance his vulnerability with his bravado as an artist. So his latest Jackman EP is a surprise, being his most introspective project to date. On tracks like “Denver” the Louisville lyricist, Jack finds solace through self-reflection and no filler. Jack exchanges his usual polished sound for one that's more raw and reflective. The risks pay off for him, as tracks like “Denver” offer a sense of duality for the man living on the pop charts.
6Lack – “Decatur”
For an artist to have a trademark sound so moody and dark, “Decatur” is one of the warmest R&B songs all year. Atlanta-bred 6Lack ended a five-year hiatus to surprise fans with his long-awaited project, Since I Have A Lover. This time around, many of his album cuts have a brighter tone, reflecting on romance after making its way past troubled waters. On “Decatur”, 6Lack uses the lighthearted, colorful production to express his gratitude and hope for the better days ahead for his relationship. His latest musical tone is new to fans, but judging from the album, it’s an exciting chapter with more to come.
Toosii – “Favorite Song”
Toosi’s “Favorite Song” is the surprise smash single of 2023, securing the rapper his first top 10 hit. Even for an artist known for expressing his emotions on wax, this is one of his most touching tracks to date. The earnest track is an ode for all the little things to keep a smile on his lady’s face. With each line of his verse becoming more descriptive and personal, "Favorite Song" plays almost like a love letter.
Killer Mike – “Scientists and Engineers” ft Andre 3000, Future, & Eryn Allen Kane
Killer Mike’s latest LP Michael is filled with hometown collaborations, but none are drawing more eyes than “Scientists & Engineers”. The album cut boosts Atlanta rap royalty, as Mike tags up with Future and Andre 3000. 3 Stacks hardly delivers features anymore, but they are always memorable lyrical exercises, reminding us his pen remains unscathed.
The same goes for the “Run The Jewels” frontman, whose sharp delivery doesn't miss a beat on the track. Future and Eryn Allen Kane bring the soulful guitar-driven production home, taking listeners to the ghetto gospel in between verses.
