OUT TODAY: Tony Bones The Producer and Jackson B unite with lyricist AKS to channel nostalgia on single ‘Whatever It Is’

As they continue to tease towards their joint project, frequent collaborators Tony Bones The Producer and Jackson B join forces with rising British/Nigerian wordsmith, AKS, to release the nostalgia infused joint single ‘Whatever It Is’ – a track that blends the soulful essence of 90s hip-hop with a modern-day edge.

Leading with its infectious boom-bap rhythms, live saxophone elements, and thought-provoking lyrics, the new single is a nod to golden-era Hip-Hop, reminiscent of icons like De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest – melding nostalgia with innovation in a way that speaks to both the old school and the new generation of listeners.

Tony Bones The Producer, fast gaining a reputation for his ability to craft timeless, soul-infused beats, lays the foundation of the track. Drawing inspiration from the jazz, funk, and boom-bap that defined the 90s hip-hop sound, Tony’s production exudes warmth and groove, paying homage to the roots of the genre while maintaining a contemporary edge.

What sets ‘Whatever It Is’ apart is the live instrumentation provided by Jackson B, a multi-instrumentalist and saxophonist. His smooth saxophone lines and melancholy keys breathe life into the track, adding an organic, jazz-inspired texture that elevates the song to new heights. Jackson B’s improvisational style is a nod to jazz legends, effortlessly blending with the hip-hop production to create a unique listening experience.

Playing front-man for this effort is wordsmith AKS, a critically acclaimed UK based rapper whose lyrical finesse and effortless flow perfectly complement the classic feel of the beat. Known for his introspective and motivational rhymes, AKS delivers verses that reflect themes of resilience, growth, and self-discovery. His bars speak to the listener’s soul, encouraging them to trust in their journey and embrace their individuality. A testament compounded by the artistry evidently on display here as he finds a way to merge the heavy with the cheerful whilst getting you singing along.

Together, the trio have crafted a vibrant, feel-good song that evokes something more, ‘Whatever It Is’….it’s a sonic journey that reflects on the past while embracing the future. Tony Bones’ production, combined with Jackson B’s instrumentation and AKS’s introspective lyrics, results in a track that is as much a nod to the past as it is a statement of intention for the enduring legacy of Hip-Hop. This collaboration is a reminder that the genre’s heart and soul are still thriving, with timeless themes that continue to resonate with both long-time fans and new generations alike.

‘Whatever it Is’ is available today (24th October 2024 ) for streaming/download on major digital platforms and offers a brilliant insight into Jackson B x Tony Bones The Producer’s forthcoming joint album. As a true collaboration the record will also feature on AKS’ forthcoming “Departures & Arrivals: As Plane as Day” project as he closes out his “Modes of Transport” series.

Connect with AKS, Jackson B & Tony Bones the Producer
AKS: http://instagram.com/AKSonline
Jackson B: http://instagram.com/jacks0n.b_
Tony Bones the Producer: http://instagram.com/tonybonestheproducer 

Song of the Day: Leave The World Behind – Shyam P & Moon Rocket

Renowned house vocalist, songwriter, and producer SHYAM P, celebrated for his collaborations with industry giants like Ferreck Dawn, Second City, and Josh Butler, has joined forces with legendary Afro House producer, DJ, and piano virtuoso MOON ROCKET, who has been delivering his magical live shows at some of the biggest clubs in New York, Miami and across Italy.

Together, they present a groundbreaking electronic album that transcends boundaries and defines a new era in electronic music. Titled ‘More Than Art and Science,’ the album is a testament to the collective talent and sonic breadth of these two exceptional artists. Both artists have accrued over 25 million streams on Spotify alone, and Shyam P’s distinctive vocals, effortless songwriting, and soulful performances have earned him support from Radio 1, CamelPhat, and Annie Mac. Meanwhile, Moon Rocket’s unparalleled piano playing and production skills have solidified his status as a legend in the Afro House scene.

The album’s second single, ‘Leave The World Behind, emerges as an instant standout, epitomising the perfect fusion of elements that define a cross-genre, radio-friendly dance anthem. This track effortlessly intertwines emotion-drenched vocals with a buoyant, uptempo production, encapsulating the essence of a chart-topping hit.

With its infectious chorus, “All I do is close my eyes and leave the world behind me,” the song not only captivates with its catchiness but also resonates deeply. In today’s whirlwind of existence, the track embarks listeners on a transformative odyssey of introspection, underscoring the significance of gratitude, liberation, and authenticity.

Radiating a feel-good vibe and pulsating tempo, ‘Leave the World Behind’ embodies the essence of summer, serving as the quintessential soundtrack for carefree moments and sun-kissed dance floors. The vocals, brimming with passion, seamlessly harmonise with the production, immediately uplifts spirits and strikes a chord with listeners.

Why not listen below…

Song of the Day: Limon – Hibachi x Image x Sandy

Visionary producer HIBACHI‘s explosive soulful single ‘LIMON,’ features Spanish/UK R&B artist SANDY and the multifaceted American rapper and actor, IMAGE, known for his role in the Netflix series Sex Education.

Sandy, a 20-year-old singer, songwriter, and pianist hailing from London, delivers heartfelt lyrics and a soothing voice aimed at providing solace during uncertain times. Drawing from a diverse range of influences, including classical piano training and contemporary R&B and soul artists like Daniel Caesar, H.E.R., and SiR, Sandy’s music navigates themes of transition and adaptation in the face of change. Her compositions resonate with those experiencing the challenges of adjusting to new environments, offering a sense of connection during moments of isolation.

Image’s journey originates from the streets of Baltimore City, where music served as his refuge from a challenging environment. Through his music, he shares his experiences growing up amidst adversity and his aspirations for the future. With a desire to connect with audiences on a personal level, Image channels his past struggles and hopes for the future into his compositions, inviting listeners to join him on his musical journey.

Emerging producer Hibachi, originally from Tanzania, is making a significant impact in the UK music scene with his unique fusion of Hip Hop, Dance, R&B, and Afrobeat. Distinguishing himself from the mainstream by blending elements of House, R&B, Hip Hop, and Afrobeat, Hibachi’s sound has attracted attention from distributors such as AWAL CORE. Teaming up the three London-based artists Hibachi, Sandy and Image are collectively aiming to energize listeners with their collaborative single… have a listen below…

Song of the Day: Start This – D Power Diesle x Wariko

D POWER DIESLE is back with a bang, dropping the sizzling second single from his upcoming EP project ‘Graphene 4’. Featuring renowned Nottingham emcee, Wariko and produced by Audio Slugs, this grime banger calls back to the notorious LOTM3 clash carrying the same electrifying energy.

After crossing paths on the mighty clash series ‘Lord Of The Mics’ Volume 3 back in 2011, the pair were pinned up against eachother producing one the most memorable clashes in the UK Grime scene. Lauded by top artists, industry giants, and global music lovers alike, this dynamic duo reunite in ‘Start This’, recapturing the raw energy of their legendary basement clash.

Produced by Grime heavy hitters Audio Slugs, Diesle and Wariko ride the 140bpm beat going back to back, while gifting us with references from the famous battle. The chorus and verse integrate seamlessly, with the London and Nottingham accents playing off each other harmoniously.

Gearing up to release ‘Graphene 4’ this Spring, its prior three volumes were a masterstroke in Grime, garnering millions of streams, widespread acclaim across UK’s radio and press, and powerhouse collaborations with Grime’s biggest stars, including Skepta, D Double E, Manga St Hilare, and Big Narstie. Mark your calendars for D Power’s headline show at ‘The Hackney Social’ on Friday 3rd May, where he will be delivering a curated performance of tracks from the Graphene series.

A pioneer and veteran that many within Black British music praise, D Power Diesle is best known for his impact in the early grime days via Déjà vu, Rinse FM, and clashing with Wariko on Lord of the Mics 3. But it doesn’t stop there. Not only housing an impressive catalogue of music, Diesle has also toured with UK heavy-weight Skepta, Wiley, Jammer, and Modestep before outlining a reputation of his own. Flash forward to today, it’s a common discussion amongst UK rap about grime’s positioning in our current landscape, a topic of which not everyone agrees on. However, it’s artists like D Power Diesle that are still holding it up for those gritty, raw, and lively tracks that encapsulate the roots of London’s inner city. Taking his knowledge of the industry and putting it to good use, Diesle formed his own label EB Records that’s committed to guiding the up-and-coming artists of today down the right path. Check out the video 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