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.
As I Am by 1K Phew Reach Records’ Atlanta native 1K Phew returns with his fifth studio album released since 2017, As I Am. The new project represents Phew’s most transparent and polished art to date. The promotional rollout for the album has been sensational which began in May when the first single, “The Offering” (May 6) released. The detailed promotional tour of the album included freestyle releases, photo and video teases, a steady social media presence and three quality singles (with videos). The other two singles, “Church House Trap House” (August 12) and “Safe” featuring Jai’Len Josey (September 9) made a significant impact on the culture for varied reasons. As I Am provided Gospel Rap is back and back with substantial influence.
Favorite tracks from the album include “Speed Racer” featuring Aha Gazelle, “Father Abraham” featuring WHATUPRG, “Grateful,” and “Amen Again” featuring Lecrae & Trip Lee. However, I’ve been able to pull something personal and relatable from all of the 15-track audio buffet. Other featured artists include Ty Tribbett, Jonathan McReynolds, and 1k Pson. The album artwork created by esteemed Kevin Hackett captures the heart Phew puts forth near perfectly. Phew’s mantra of “come as you are” to church, around him, and generally speaking is felt throughout. Christ meets us wherever we are regardless of the season of life experienced.
Sonically, the album is beautiful. It’s trap-infused gospel music backed with energetic urban worship. As I Am can be enjoyed thoroughly whether you’ve been around faith as a lifer or if you’ve never met Jesus. Stream As I Am on Spotify here.
The Listening Session (TLS) feat. JusRzd & Cyrus Sonata - "Too Long" The Listening Session debuted in 2022 as a community (collective) of Christian artists and producers that seek to build tables for creatives to thrive in the sound and aesthetic that best represents their true selves. In 2022, the talented collective released a total of nine sure-fire singles. The latest, "Too Long", features independent artists JusRzd and Cyrus Sonata. JusRzd provides the hard-hitting sixteens while Sonata laces the track with smooth vocals. The track is based on the desire to run away from God when as believers we should be running toward him at all times. Stream "Too Long" on Spotify here.
Monster Tarver feat. FRANCOIS - "God Energy" (prod. by Dax Hamma)
Menace Movement's newest signee Monster Tarver releases his second single of 2022. Former WWE superstar, Tarver is a proficient emcee and producer for God Over Money's Datin-led imprint. A strong, powerful voice of theological terror, Tarver's stature and delivery may seem menacing, however, screams of a solider of Christ. He even includes a play on words from mainstream's iconic rapper Eminem (see if you catch it). The track is energetic and apologetic. Stream "God Energy" on Spotify here.
Xay Hill feat. Darnell Nate & GodFearin – “Frontlines”
Oh-so - "Trauma"
K-SEE – “Walk Walk”
JXYD3N – “Pull Through”
Brenno feat. Mike Teezy – “Free”
Jay Violet feat. Jack Tyler – “Prayers”
Emmanuel LKD feat. TCyro – “City On Fire”
Kelo - "Honest Prayer II"
Rosco x jpxprince feat. Christopher Syncere – “Workin”
CallemJJ feat. BigBreeze & Kemvr – “SAVIOR”
Illijam – “Wilt”
Joe Verses – “NEWS”
John Michael Howell – “Count On You”
Gitemjay - "Hot Butter"
Dante Raddd - "Farrock"
grantdakidd – “nyc <3”
DANMAR – “Secrets”
Drup feat. Tj Carroll & DEON” – “Birkenstock”
Hunterdrinkswater feat. Young Cupholder – “Life About”
B.E.R.I.D.O.X. feat. Lady Ay – “Joy”
Classmaticc - "How You Do That?"
Oscar Smith feat. S.O. - "Dreamer"
Ayomilly - "GAMEDAY FREESTYLE"
Jay Matthews feat. P.O.K.R. & Edify - "Stranger Things"
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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