This Week’s Top New Hip-Hop Tracks

The best new hip-hop this week includes albums, videos, and songs from ASAP Rocky, Big Sean, and Ice Spice.

This week in hip-hop has been both celebratory and somber. Fans bid farewell to underground rap mainstay Chino XL, who passed at age 50, and DJ Polo, who also died over the weekend. Despite the losses, contemporary figures in hip-hop showcased the genre’s versatility. Aminé adapted Charli XCX’s hyperpop for freestyles in his “360.5” video, while Kevin Abstract reflected on lost love in “Big Dog.”

ASAP Rocky made a triumphant comeback with “Highjack” featuring Jessica Pratt, a surprising collaboration.

Big Sean reveled in fatherhood with the video for his latest single, “On Up,” from his project Better Me Than You.

Ice Spice extended her debut album Y2K! with the bonus track, “Gyatt.”

Polo G followed up with the announcement for his long-delayed album H.O.O.D. P.O.E.T. by releasing a new single, “We Uh Shoot,” featuring fellow Chicagoan Lil Durk.

Here are some highlights from hip-hop this week ending August 2, 2024:

Jpegmafia — I Lay Down My Life For You

No one in hip-hop makes music like Jpegmafia. Many rappers adopt a thrash rock aesthetic, but few rap over hardcore and metal riffs, blending those with glitchy noise and industrial rap beats. Guests include Denzel Curry and Vince Staples, making the album a veritable bar fest. There’s something for anyone with an open mind.

Killer Mike — Michael & The Mighty Midnight Revival: Songs For Sinners And Saints

This new 10-song collection is an “epilogue” for Mike’s Grammy-winning 2023 album Michael. Mike described it as a “testimonial.” He explained, “When I was growing up, testimony in church was about trials, tribulations, and triumphs. After Michael, I was reminded that tribulations never cease. This is a testimonial of my tumultuous times, trials, and triumphs despite doubt, hate, and fear.”

Navy Blue — Memoirs In Armour

Skater turned rapper Navy Blue (also known as Sage Elsesser) returns to his independent roots. His latest release showcases soulful production and intricate, stream-of-consciousness raps, appealing particularly to fans of Earl Sweatshirt, Mach-Hommy, and MIKE.

42 Dugg — “Wrong Right”

Detroit breakout 42 Dugg releases a mellow video for “Wrong Right” from his album 4eva Us Neva Them. This reflective track adds depth to his current repertoire.

Boldy James & Harry Fraud — “Cecil Fielder” Feat. Tee Grizzley

Boldy James strengthens his comparisons to Motor City artists like Curren$y and Dom Kennedy by teaming with Harry Fraud. “Cecil Fielder” features Tee Grizzley, adding a rough edge to the smooth groove. This is the first single from their collab project The Bricktionary.

Kaliii — “Big One” Feat. Monaleo (From The Block performance)

This “From The Block” performance is special for Kaliii as she reveals the sex of her pregnancy. Congrats to her!

Mutant Academy — “Liberation” Feat. Quelle Chris

Richmond, Virginia’s rap collective Mutant Academy announced their debut group album Keep Holly Alive. “Liberation” featuring Quelle Chris is a promising preview.

Saweetie — “My Best”

Saweetie’s music has taken a motivational and nostalgic turn. Her video for “My Best” recreates her academic experiences, revealing more of herself in her latest output.

Tay B — “All Ten” Feat. Lil Baby

The main co-sign any street rapper wants is from Lil Baby, who brings both grit and polish. “All Ten” illustrates this blend well.

Wiz Khalifa — “Baby Girl On The Way”

This week is all about babies, with Wiz Khalifa joining Big Sean and Kaliii in celebrating parenthood. Surprisingly, the track showcases some of Wiz’s best technical rapping in recent times.

Wynne — “Dog In Me”

Portland rapper Wynne adds a new dimension to her discography with “Dog In Me,” delving into subjects that surprise rap fans.

YG — “Love Make”

Compton rapper YG’s latest single “Love Make” samples Avant’s “Makin’ Good Love.” It’s the closest he’s come to a romance ballad, albeit with his signature raunchiness.