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.
Zauntee - "Jesus Called My Name" Tampa rapper Zauntee returns with his first single released in 2022. The single is set to be included on the upcoming project, The Stonebrook Project. The new single is an unashamed display of worship lifting up the name of our Savior giving thanks for His inclusion in the life of a believer. It's quite a different vibe from Zauntee's last single, "BackFromTheDEAD," released last November. However, both of the latest singles detail a similar story; the redemptive power of Jesus Christ. "Jesus Called My Name" is heavy on the choruses and light on lyricism. Essentially, it's a worship track with a quick sixteen included. I'm a fan of the recent movement of CHH artists reverting to the call of worship within their art. Stream "Jesus Called My Name" on Spotify here.
Sean C. Johnson - "SIX THIRTY" Oklahoma-resident Sean C. Johnson drops a theme song (of sorts) accompanying his short film titled, "LUCKY." The short film debuts on YouTube at 8:00 PM EST on August 26. The song and video are his first releases since 2020's "Althea's Baby." One thing I've always appreciated and loved about Johnson's art is the descriptive nature of the storytelling included. It's no different with this award-winning short film. Stream "SIX THIRTY" on Spotify here.
The Calm After the Storm by Shiwan
Connecticut resident rapper and musician Shiwan releases the second part of a trilogy of emotional art in the form of music. The first project, Prepare for the Worse, was released earlier this year (February 2022). The new project represents the second chapter in the trilogy of transparent deconstruction related to faith, family, and everything in between. This journey revolves around Matthew 8:26.
The project opens with just rhymic vocals from Shiwan and an acoustic guitar undertone, perfect. He reveals our focus should be on God, not us, for true harmony during our daily pursuits. The next track combines his vocal arsenal of lyricism and melodies. Shiwan commands respect for his skills between the two genres quite effortlessly. Shiwan continues to openly express his own convictions, impressions, and emotions swirled as life continues.
The production included throughout remains just as brilliant. The soundscape is eclectic and diverse, similar to the music. My favorites are "Code Blue," "Life Ain't Easy," and "Watch It Fall." Those could easily change as repeat listens gather. There isn't a bad track included and each shine outward for different reasons. Shiwan continues to impress. Stream The Calm After the Storm on Spotify here.
HYLEM feat. Ross Millet – “HERE ANYWAYS” & "SKY FALLIN"
DANMAR – “One I Need”
Hunterdrinkswater – “your braids are poetry”
Joseph Goulding feat. Noah Mathews - "Strapped"
John Michael Howell – “Noah Guy”
Don Ryvcko - "I JUST WANNA BE WITH YOU"
Alvin Cedric – “Till My Heart Stops”
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.
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