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.
Church Clothes 4: Dry Clean Only (Deluxe Edition) by Lecrae Reach Records' co-founder and legendary artist Lecrae released a deluxe version of the final installment in the Church Clothes mixtape series (CC4). This deluxe version includes six brand-new songs featuring Torey D'Shaun, J Paul, URSTRULYXYZ, D. Smoke, and Rotimi. November's release of CC4 was one of the premier and most anticipated releases of 2022 featuring 13 tracks, and some of hip-hop's best emcees such as nobigdyl., Jon Keith, A.I. the Anamoly, WHATUPRG, Andy Mineo, and others.
"Dry Clean Only speaks to my desire to handle the culture with quality care. Since I began the Church Clothes series, I wanted to use it as a place to truly link hip-hop and the faith to influence the culture. I want to make it clear that with dedication to the craft, culture, and a connection with the Creator; disruption is possible," says Lecrae.
The six new tracks are a celebrated mixture of styles, themes, and art. "Best Thing" represents a love declaration toward significant others. "Legacy" speaks to Lecrae's influence on hip-hop and his devoted fanbase over the past two decades."They Ain't Know" revisits his devotion to the faith and unashamed practices despite criticism. "Can You Hear Me Now?" depicts tests and obstacles faced and how God is the ultimate overcomer. "Price Up" celebrates lyricism and the artistic value of hip-hop along the side of Torey D'Shaun. "Double R Dreamin" is best described as a "disrupter." Combined, the new music fuels added energy and a renewed appreciation for what the mixtape series represents and includes. Stream Dry Clean Only on Spotify here.
Wande - "WINNING"
Reach Records' first lady released her first single of 2023. Wande, along with Andy Mineo, were the only two artists on Reach's artist roster who didn't release new music in 2022. "Winning" promises to be a motivational anthem from Wande, who has been giving Christian women permission to embrace fun, genuine femininity, and a wholesome, holy lifestyle. The single also encourages the listener to rethink what their personal definition is meant to "win." Wande's greatest wins have been delivered by a life committed to service coupled with uplifting and loving others.
Sonically, the powerful and pounding 808s take centerstage. Also, some hints of synth accents and piano strokes sneak in. "Blande" returns lyrically as she exhibits some of her most refined bars to date. Overall, the track is a certified heater and shines bright for the forthcoming year from the label. Stream "Winning" on Apple Music here.
Aaron Cole - "UP"
Gotee Records' singer, rapper, and songwriter Aaron Cole releases his first official single of 2023, as he was featured on two other tracks this year between Da' T.R.U.T.H. and Trampolines. This single wraps up 'Cole Season 2' and his contractual agreement with the record label. Fans and the industry alike notice the talent seems endless with Cole, so all eyes will be on him and his steps to come in the immediate future.
On the single, Cole proclaims life as being "up" if you're in a relationship with God. The single continues to encourage those in the faith that regardless of what life deals believers in the form of obstacles; they're "up" through Christ. Cole reminds fans how cold he can be with sixteens in rap form. Just when people get comfortable with the pop-infused R&B version of him, Cole hits you with precise lyricism. Regardless of the form of his musical delivery, the end product is always solid vibes you can dance to or bob your head. Stream "Up" on Apple Music here.
Childlike CiCi feat. Mike Teezy – “Band and a Drummer”
Tylynn – “Nah, I’m Good Love”
Chase Cullum – “On Lock”
Henrik - "BeReal"
Trutha feat. Jusrzd – “Bankrupt”
Red Tips – “Man Down Freestyle”
Yung Kriss – “MADE 4 U”
GRAHAM – “One Touch”
Konata Small – “Built Different”
Nu Tone x Mitch Darrell feat. Rebekah Renatus – “Cold Life”
Anthone Ray – “Envy”
LilRed feat. Hilgy x Opto Music – “IN ROUTE”
Eddie Waynick III – “He’s On Time Freestyle”
BigGucciDame – “Anita”
Emmanuel LKD feat. Kevin Padron – “Again”
Connor Pierson feat. Christopher Syncere – “Consistency In Chaos”
Noah Andres – “i still love you”
E.i. the King feat. Kurtis Hoppie – “Beautiful”
Vic Lucas feat. Steven Malcolm – “Know What I Mean”
Tommy Zuko feat. Miles Minnick – “Greenlight, Redlight”
Tay Collier feat. Quincy Scott x Canon – “Let Go”
HYLEM – “My Home”
DANMAR feat. 1K Phew – “In My Dreams”
Kamban – “Marvelous Things”
Matt Mogg x Titus Haskins – “Cover Up”
Stevie Rizo – “Proverbs 31”
John Michael Howell – “Melt Like Butter”
Shirlvin Desir x King Tonyo – “Throne”
LLC Flame – “secrets!”
Megan Tossi – “Dragonfly”
Tbabz x Just Derrick x Still Blessed Music – “New Wine”
Lazarus! – “Tom Foolery”
J-Blev – “Track Meet”
Peedy Case – “OFF RIP”
Jack Tyler – “JWBL”
Elias. – “when the sunsets in the east”
CallemJJ – “no more games”
KRL x Nichelle – “Be Ready”
Kojo Dave – “Aria’s Gift”
GRZN feat. Elijah Dai x Brandon Lee – “Dodge”
Lj the Messenger – “The Blessing”
Alex Jean – “Forever in Faith”
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.
NEW!BEHIND THE SONG
#1236 - Brandon Heath
Transforming wounds into stories of redemption in this powerful song
ADVERTISEMENT
NEW!NRT EDITORIAL
Skillet
We explores some of the band's best songs outside their hits
NEW!NRT LISTS
Jordan Merritt
A real conversation around the artist's new track, "Human"
NEW!HEARTSPEAK
Jordan Feliz
The artist's must-listen-to songs about faith, family, and redemption
NEW!AN NRT EXCLUSIVE
Rock Meets Worship
Seven gritty cover songs of popular worship music and hymns
