Song of the Day: L’s – Nemzzz

Lifted from his first mixtape ‘DO NOT DISTURB’, arriving on 15th March 2024, the new titan of UK Rap NEMZZZ gives the first taste from 11-track project with single ‘L’S’, produced by Zel & Aifo.

Over a relaxed drill beat shimmering with keys and smoky sax notes, Nemzzz reflects on his losses and how he holds his head above the noise of being a rising star in the industry. ‘L’S’ is the first glimpse of the ‘DO NOT DISTURB’ mixtape concept, an exploration of how the young artist is shaped by his upbringing and his fame. ‘L’s’ is accompanied with a slick video shot entirely on 16mm film by frequent collaborators DON Productions. The fresh visual splices footage of Nemzzz at home with friends in Manchester with shots of him in London roaming around the city.

The ‘DO NOT DISTURB’ tape follows a massive 2023 for the young star with a consistent slate of releases including his debut EP Nemzzz Type Beat (which was pulled together in just 17 days in a flex of his innate talents) alongside a string of singles including ‘Therapy’ (Spotify Rap UK Cover), ‘MONEY & VIBES’ (A list at 1Xtra, over +1M streams a week) and ‘8AM IN MANNY’ which landed to props from some of the biggest rappers in the world – Drake and Lil Yachty. Last year saw Nemzzz deliver his first sold-out headline tour alongside performances at festivals including Glastonbury, Ibiza Rocks and more.

Nemzzz is one of the most exciting breakout rap talents of recent years, the rapper is characterised by his ear for leftfield beats and his unique flow. The rapper is shaped by his tough upbringing in Gorton, using his music to reflect on his experiences in Manchester and his mental health struggles.

Since bursting onto the scene at the tender age of 14, he has relentlessly chipped away at his craft – building steady buzz amongst the industry, media and fans alike. With over 180 million combined streams in 2023, mine million TikTok views, tips including BBC Radio 1xtra’s Hot For 2023, Amazon Music x Hunger Magazine Ones To Watch, No Signal Class of ’23, Best Newcomer Nominee MOBO Awards 2022, plaudits from Pitchfork, The Face, DAZED, The Guardian, HYPEBEAST, CLASH, Complex UK and NME – Nemzzz is making serious moves. Check out the video for L’s below…

Marnz Malone drops video for track ‘Ball 4 U’, dedicated to his friend who passed away

Infamous Birmingham rapper MARNZ MALONE, who is currently incarcerated, has shared the official video for ‘Ball 4 U’ lifted from his previous project ‘Maktub’.

This track is a heartfelt one dedicated to his friend who passed away before turning 18, letting him know that even though he’s no longer with us, he will still be there for him and his family. It shows a deep side to Marnz Malone and how he can bring sentiment to his unique UK rap tracks.

The rising rapper is recognised for his laid-back style of flowing words into intricately pieced together verses that make up his tracks.

Alongside the release of the video, Marnz Malone has also dropped his new project ‘Tina’s Boy’, earlier this month (9th February). The 14-track collection is his third full release, which invites you into his world with tracks such as ‘Tina’s Son’ which talks about him growing up, ‘Went To War’ ft. Potter Payper gives you a snippet of both of their lives, and more tracks full of storytelling and life lessons.

Why not check out the the project at some point…but before you head off, catch the ‘Ball 4 U’ visualiser below…

OUT TODAY: Listen to Dior Ashe’s single, ‘Easy’

Rising Alt-R&B star DIOR ASHE delivers her new single ‘Easy’, a smooth and soulful cut about the complexities of love.

Driven by a desire to showcase a positive outlook on queer relationships, Ashe penned ‘Easy’ as a personal exploration of vulnerability, understanding, and the transformative power of compassion. Stepping into the shoes of both partners, the song acknowledges the inherent challenges of intimacy but celebrates the ease found in open communication, shared goals, and unwavering support.

“I wrote ‘Easy’ with the intention of manifesting my idea of a healthy queer relationship,” says Dior Ashe. “It’s about being seen, heard, and loved for who you are, navigating struggles together, and ultimately finding strength and solace in mutual understanding.”

More than just a love song, ‘Easy’ serves as a companion for listeners on their own journeys of navigating healthy connections. Dior’s smooth vocals and introspective lyrics weave a tapestry of relatable experiences, reminding us that vulnerability, empathy, and open communication are the cornerstones of lasting love, regardless of sexual orientation.

“‘Easy’ is not just a song, it’s a conversation starter,” Ashe adds. “It’s a reminder that healthy, supportive relationships are possible, and that we deserve to love and be loved without fear or judgment.”

Have a listen to ‘Easy’ below…

Song of the Day: Levels – Sofia Gillani

London-born singer/songwriter SOFIA GILLANI‘s latest single ‘Levels’, is a lot more fun in its messages than her previous offerings. It’s a playful, chilled, laid-back song anyone could just vibe with – no worries, no impendingly painful thoughts, simply the fact that there is no time to waste.

The young songstress offers more insight into her single: “In life, we are constantly progressing, and through the keymotif of ‘levels’ – we can take our time and allow whatever happens to happen. It’s a carefree, party pop song with rap verses to explore my versatility. I cannot wait to perform it live, and showcase this breath of fresh air.”

Sofia Gillani has been captivating audiences since 2020 with her empowering music and visually striking videos. With an impressive collection of singles to her name, including the acclaimed ‘Water Run Dry,’ featured on BBC Introducing, Sofia’s bold and invigorating pop sound is making waves worldwide. From Westfield London to Haslemere Fringe and Luton Pride, her live performances continue to leave a mark as her progresses. Sofia Gillani is undeniably the next bold pop sensation..have a listen to ‘Levels’ below…

J Kas drops new track, ‘Come On Down’ ft. Lucas Garcez + video

Fresh out of Sheffield, Rapper J KAS drops some old-school favour in new track, ‘Come on Down,’ featuring Brazilian-born rapper Lucas Garcez. The Dreamlife-produced-joint, is a testament to the artistic synergy that emerged when these two talents crossed paths in Porto, Portugal, in 2018. J. Kas and Lucas Garcez, brought together by a shared passion for music and hip-hop, create a vibrant sonic celebration of their respective journeys in the world of art.

In this track, J. Kas pays homage to Porto, the city he now calls his second home, where the collaboration with Lucas Garcez took root. Lucas, having relocated to Porto during his youth, adds a unique perspective, making the city an integral part of his identity. The lyrics reflect the duo’s love for music, dedication to honing their craft, and an enthusiastic celebration of the hip-hop culture that unites them.

As the verses unfold, the rappers not only express their shared artistic endeavors but also give a nod to both Porto and Sheffield, acknowledging the cities that have played crucial roles in shaping their identities as artists. ‘Come on Down’ becomes a symbolic bridge between two cultures, connecting Sheffield and Porto through the universal language of hip-hop. The track is more than just music; it’s a testament to the power of collaboration, cultural exchange, and the enduring spirit of hip-hop that transcends geographical boundaries.

‘Come On Down’ was released last Friday (9th February) across various music platforms. Check out the video for the blazing track below…