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.

Steven Malcolm x LZ7 - "Monster"
4 Against 5's Steven Malcolm returns with his first single of 2023. This is Malcolm's first collaboration with UK's LZ7. The track was produced by Jimmy James and Dayme highlighting Malcolm's personal battle with inner demons. Combined rapid 808s and synthesizing bass lines, he depicts the disruptive forces aimed inward at his soul. Malcolm's swift flows are delivered in a melodic riddim paying homage to his Jamaican roots. The powerful lyricism fortifies LZ7's poignant hook, "There's a monster living underneath / If I said there wasn't I'd be lying through my teeth / So will I finally find me and find the real me / Will I finally find me and set the monster free."

The solemn theme reinforces Malcolm's ambition to be transparent and relatable to his listeners. The single sets the tone for his forthcoming album to drop sometime during the Fall of 2023. Also, it serves as a rallying cry for those feeling conflicted. Stream "Monster" on Apple Music here.
 

R-Swift feat. Sean Simmonds - "Cheers"
Philly-raised, Atlanta resident R-Swift released his first single of 2023. This is the first we've heard from Swift since the 2021 release of his last album, GLDN. He features Toronto-born, Atlanta resident Sean Simmonds on the track. "Cheers" is a celebration of black excellence as both Swift and Simmonds are activists in their own right and communities for various causes pushing a variety of opportunities forward for African Americans. 

The crisp lyricism and smooth flow of wordplay delivery are accompanied by powerful strikes of ivory piano keys coupled with synthesized accents. Simmonds chimes in with a beautiful melody for the hook echoing empowerment and cultural preservation. It's a song of encouragement and compliments the hard work already poured in. Stream "Cheers" on Apple Music here.