J.I, Ella Mai, BabyTron, Nippa & More: Spotlight on Artists
The week between Election Day on November 5 and the highly anticipated reveal of the 2025 Grammy nominations on November 8 is shaping up to be one of the most eventful periods in recent memory. The vibrant realms of hip-hop and R&B are set to take center stage in both of these significant events, already making headlines and generating buzz. Moreover, a series of impactful news stories from across the music industry have added to the intensity of the week, ensuring it will be remembered for years to come as a pivotal moment for artists and fans alike.
Tragically, the music world has lost a true legend. Quincy Jones, an unparalleled force in entertainment with an astounding 28 Grammy Awards to his name, passed away at his Bel Air home on the evening of November 3, surrounded by his family. His monumental contributions to the music industry, including his groundbreaking work on Michael Jackson’s iconic albums and his direction of classic films like The Wiz and The Color Purple, have left an indelible mark. Jones’ influence spans across music, film, television, and music journalism, ensuring that his legacy will resonate with future generations of artists and audiences alike.
Just days before Jones’ passing, the hip-hop community was rocked by the surprising outcome of Young Thug’s highly publicized criminal trial. After pleading guilty to charges related to leading a violent street gang in Atlanta, the celebrated rapper received a sentence of 15 years of probation with no prison time, a verdict that has sent shockwaves throughout the industry. This decision has garnered reactions from various artists, including Sexyy Red and T.I., who have voiced their thoughts on the matter. Additionally, R&B singer Mariah the Scientist, who is Young Thug’s girlfriend, made headlines by prioritizing time with him over her performance on Latto’s Sugar Honey Iced Tea tour, showcasing the personal impact of this ruling.
To celebrate the dynamic sounds emerging from the R&B and hip-hop scenes, Billboard proudly presents Fresh Picks, a spotlight on some of the most exciting new tracks. This week features a diverse array of sounds, including Jordan Hawkins’ vibrant celebration of love in “Love So Good” and the collaborative effort between Big Moochie Grape and Key Glock. For music lovers eager to discover fresh talent and innovative sounds, our Spotify playlist below is a must-listen, capturing the essence of this week’s hottest releases.
Spotlight Track: J.I the Prince of N.Y Shines with “Get to Know Me”
Nearly ten years after his debut on The Rap Game, J.I the Prince of N.Y continues to impress with his latest release. The Brooklyn-based artist consistently delivers tracks that beautifully blend emotional depth with the quintessential New York braggadocio. His new single, “Get to Know Me,” is a testament to this talent. With lyrics that reflect vulnerability, he sings, “I know you brushing off ya pain, if you afraid to fall in love can you at least try to love me coldly?” set against a hauntingly atmospheric R&B-infused trap beat produced by DopeBoyz and Buckroll Beats. This track situates J.I within the lineage of A Boogie wit da Hoodie and the rich tradition of New York rap ballads, yet his introspective hooks and free-flowing verses offer a fresh perspective that sets him apart. The song serves as a poignant exploration of love, regret, and the complexities of human emotion.
Nippa Captivates with “Pride”
London-born artist Nippa is making significant strides in both the UK and US music scenes with his unique fusion of rap and R&B. His latest single, “Pride,” is a sultry, Afrobeats-inspired anthem that encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability and open themselves up to love. The track features a captivating blend of romantic guitar riffs and an infectious drum pattern that invites everyone on the dance floor. With lyrics such as, “Wonder if I try/ Take off my disguise/ Wonder how it feels to be you,” Nippa’s song perfectly encapsulates the feelings of longing and desire. This concise yet impactful track is primed for numerous remixes, further enhancing its enchanting vibe and broadening its reach within the music community.
Jordan Hawkins Delivers a Powerful Anthem with “Love So Good”
Amidst the buzz surrounding Leon Thomas’ impressive Mutt LP and whispers of a potential rock album from Beyoncé, the fusion of rock and R&B is gaining mainstream traction. North Carolina’s own Jordan Hawkins is stepping into the spotlight with his exhilarating single, “Love So Good.” This powerful track merges elements of soul, rock, and gospel, offering listeners a refreshing musical experience. From the moment Hawkins unleashes his soaring falsetto, it’s clear that he’s passionately singing about transformative love. His dynamic vocal delivery—punctuated by emotional growls—matches the vibrant instrumentation seamlessly. This marks Hawkins’ first solo release of 2024, setting the stage for an exciting year ahead.
Big Moochie Grape & Key Glock Unite for the Defiant “Manifest”
Big Moochie Grape has made a triumphant return with his eagerly awaited project, Eat or Get Ate 2, released just in time for Halloween. On the standout track “Manifest,” the Memphis rapper collaborates with Paper Route Empire’s Key Glock, delivering a confident and braggadocious anthem. Big Moochie raps about his rise to success, flaunting his luxurious lifestyle and the material wealth he has acquired, stating, “All of these cap-a– rappers trying to fit in.” Over Bandplay’s cinematic production, the track encapsulates the essence of ambition and determination in the world of hip-hop. Key Glock complements the energetic vibe, slowing down the pace and adding depth to the collaboration, making “Manifest” a must-listen for fans of the genre.
BabyTron Brings the Horror with “Nightmare On Yo Street”
In the spirit of Halloween, BabyTron has unleashed an eerie new track titled “Nightmare On Yo Street.” Eschewing the conventional title of Nightmare on Elm Street, the Detroit rapper introduces a chilling narrative that draws listeners into his unique world. Known for his distinct flow that feels conversational yet impactful, BabyTron delivers haunting bars that captivate the audience. The music video, set against a spooky cemetery backdrop, amplifies the ominous vibe as he questions, “This a f–king gun fight/ Why you bringing a knife?” This track is a perfect addition to any Halloween playlist and builds anticipation for his upcoming album, Tronicles, set to drop on November 8.
Ella Mai Captures Hearts with “One of These”
Ella Mai, a powerhouse in the music industry, surprises listeners with her new single “One of These,” which stands apart from her previous hits. This romantic track serves as a heartfelt tribute to her boyfriend, Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum. With a production that samples the iconic Timbaland bounce from CeeLo Green’s “I’ll Be Around,” Ella Mai encourages women to seek out their own bliss, singing, “Wake up in the morning, he got flowers at my feet.” This captivating track showcases her soulful voice and ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level, making it a potential chart-topping success as she continues to solidify her place in the music world.
