OUT TODAY: Listen to 916 track, ‘I Spy’ ft. Nayyah & Nikz

Inspired by the early 00’s R&B feel-good sound, ‘I Spy’ features a captivating appearance from the newest addition to the 916 Collective, Nayyah, alongside singer/songwriter/producer, Nikz. The dynamic vocals of both members play their roles in telling a story of budding attraction and shy infatuation.

Speaking on the inspiration behind the track, Nayyah shares “I wanted people to feel that fun 2000s R&B type vibe when listening to the song. I know that there are shy girls like me out there who can relate to seeing someone from across the room that catches your eye so I wanted us to recreate that moment from both perspectives on the record.”

The accompanying visuals, directed by illpressions and Cali, draw inspiration from the iconic Alicia Keys record ‘You Don’t Know My Name,’ adding an extra layer of nostalgia to the overall experience setting ‘I Spy’ up to be recognised as yet another masterfully executed release from the Oxford based collective.

The single is out today (25th January) across various music platforms. Check out the video below…

Toldyaa Unveils His Latest Single ‘N.A.S’ – A New Chapter in R&B

Known for his captivating R&B melodies and profound storytelling, TOLDYAA‘s latest track ‘N.A.S (Nobody Ain’t Shit)’ promises to be a standout addition to his growing discography.

Blending the emotive depths of artists like Bryson Tiller and Brent Faiyaz with the unique edge of Nippa, Toldyaa’s music has been captivating listeners since his debut in 2016. His journey from collaborative projects to a successful solo career has been marked by self-taught expertise and a deep-rooted passion for music.

‘N.A.S (Nobody Ain’t Shit)’ brings a fresh trap soul vibe to Toldyaa’s distinctive R&B sound. Produced by Adot The God, The track is a testament to his artistic evolution and his ability to resonate with audiences through his music. This release is not just a song but an experience, complete with Toldyaa’s signature immersive storytelling that brings his music to life.

His voice has been amplified by platforms like BBC 1Xtra, Capital Xtra, BBC Introducing, Reprezent, No Signal as well as an array of popular R&B blogs, highlighting his growing influence in the music scene. With ‘N.A.S (Nobody Ain’t Shit)’, Toldyaa is set to start 2024 on a high note, continuing his journey of musical exploration and connection with fans. This release is a precursor to a promising year, with a new EP on the horizon that will further demonstrate his unique sound and enduring passion for music.

Listen to Toldyaa’s new offering of 2024, released 18th January across various platforms…

OUT TODAY: check out Kalada’s track Feasting ft. UK rap royalty Ashley Walters

Taken from his debut project ‘Thinking Out Loud’, KALADA joins forces with UK rap, TV and film royalty ASHLEY WALTERS on new single, ‘Feasting’. With its catchy instrumental and contagious energy, ‘Feasting’ is guaranteed to get you popping bottles with your friends. This track combines elements of UK rap/hip-hop to create a unique sound that will have you hooked from the chorus.

Released alongside the single, ‘Thinking Out Loud’ is Kalada’s first full body of work, and boasts productions from Fumez the Engineer, Victizzle and Ro, as well as collaborations with Namesbliss, Bookez and a second record with Ashley Walters.

Kalada is a British rapper, songwriter, lyricist & performer from North West London born to Nigerian parents. With music from rap legends such as 2Pac ,DMX, The Notorious B.I.G., JAY-Z & Nas shaping his early years, Kalada officially kicked off his career in 2014 with a song titled ‘Somebody That I Used to Know’. Since then, he has remained active in the UK rap scene with singles such as ‘Summertime Fine’, ‘Jasmine’ (which got added to Rap UK official playlist). Kalada has shown his versatility by exploring genres such as Rap, Trap, Afroswing and Rndrill, and has collaborated with artists and producers such as G Maffiah, namesbliss, Lexi Banks, Beats By Mantra, JRD’N. and more. Some major highlights of his career include performing at ILUVELIVE; getting featured on radio stations such as KISS FM & BBC 1Xtra; an article feature in the Voice Newspaper, and getting verified on Instagram. Despite all his achievements, Kalada intends to continue challenging himself and showing off his intentionality and talent. It is evident he will remain prominent in the scene for a long time.   Have a listen to ‘Feasting’ below…

Song of the Day: Stolen – Raelle

‘Stolen’ is a collaborative track between soul songbird RAELLE, London based singer Collard, Gabiga and German producer S.Fidelity that blends two gentle intertwining falsettos with a bouncy instrumental to create a production that’s both gentle and energetic.

Londoner Raelle was longlisted for Glastonbury Emerging Talent 2022 and featured in VEVO UK’s “DSCVR New Music” in March 2023 with the first release from her EP ‘Bloodlines’. Rich in original orchestral arrangements, ‘Bloodlines’ pays homage to the windrush generation.

Premiered on Wordplay Magazine, The EO garnered serious attention from the likes of EARMILK, TRENCH and Central Sauce. Raelle has been featured on BBC Introducing, 2, London, BBC 1Xtra Touchdown tour, DJ Ace’s R&B show and JazzFM.

Can’t wait to hear more from her in 2024…listen to ‘Stolen’ below…

New Lease Music’s Top Ten Albums Of 2023

OK, as promised, here are the top ten albums of 2023.

If you fancy some UK R&B, or maybe some afrobeats fused with smooth R&B, futuristic/dreamy pop or some good old hard-hitting bars, well you’re definitely in the right place! Just get to it and hit play on each beauties below! If you’re feeling any of the collections, please like, or better still, leave a comment below.

Be sure to check NEW LEASE MUSIC’s Top Ten Singles of 2023 tomorrow. I hope you enjoy the albums below…

10. A Late Bloom – Eleanor

9. Jovian 2000 AD – Jovian

8. Diary Is A Waste Of Paper – Nia Chennai

7. Venom Dripp – Showtime Ramon

6. Die Wurzel – Neak

5. 7:05 – 705

4. Rivalry – Samuel Vincent

3. Man Myth Legend – Mike Body

2. Lucid Dreampop – Thyra Hilden

1. Once Upon A Melody – T. Fernandez