This week is an exhilarating one for world Black music lovers, as a few of the most dynamic voices within the trade are making waves with recent releases. First up, Rihanna has made her long-awaited return with “Good friend of Mine”—a vibrant, feel-good dance monitor crafted for the upcoming Smurfs film, during which she additionally stars as Smurfette. After a chronic musical hiatus, her comeback is just not solely sudden but additionally deeply welcomed by followers. It’s not simply the return of her iconic voice that has everybody speaking; it’s the truth that Rihanna is again in her artistic bag—this time as each an government producer and performer on the soundtrack.
In the meantime, British-Nigerian artist Darkoo continues her spectacular 2025 streak with “Like Dat”—a punchy single that seamlessly blends her distinctive tone with cutting-edge manufacturing. With assured supply and a genre-fusing sound, Darkoo exemplifies how UK Afro-fusion artists are breaking sonic boundaries and making a worldwide affect. Altogether, from R&B introspection to club-ready remixes, Black artists around the globe proceed to outline and form the present musical panorama, proving that their affect is aware of no bounds.
Listed here are the brand new and trending songs by Black artists it is advisable to hear this week…
#1. Rihanna – Good friend of Mine
It’s been over eight years since Rihanna graced us with a brand new album, and whereas followers are nonetheless holding out for R9, she’s providing a pleasant teaser within the meantime. Her newest monitor, “Good friend of Mine,” featured on the upcoming Smurfs film soundtrack, is an infectious, Afrobeats-infused dance anthem wrapped in vibrant synths and cheerful rhythms. Rihanna’s signature vocals glide effortlessly over the beat, radiating heat and light—an ideal match for her animated blue alter-ego, Smurfette.
The track strikes a steadiness between cinematic and informal, playful and complex, serving as a intelligent reminder of Rihanna’s simple versatility. As each the voice of Smurfette and a producer of the movie, she’s as soon as once more proving that her inventive empire is aware of no bounds, merging nostalgia with a forward-thinking artistic imaginative and prescient.
#2. Darkoo – Like Dat
Darkoo’s “Like Dat” bursts onto the scene as a assured, infectious anthem, solidifying her fame as one of the crucial thrilling younger voices in UK music. Produced by Sparbz, Enzo, and French, the monitor effortlessly blends components of Afroswing, UK rap, and drill, anchored by a glossy, melodic core. Darkoo’s swagger is unmistakable, as she leans into her Nigerian roots whereas sustaining the city fringe of London.
With compelling hooks and a beat that calls for motion, “Like Dat” feels tailored for each the dancefloor and solo headphone classes. It’s the sort of monitor primed to grow to be a summer time anthem, as soon as once more showcasing Darkoo’s innate expertise for crafting hits that linger lengthy after the ultimate be aware.
#3. Latto – Anyone
Latto kicks off her 2025 marketing campaign with “Anyone”—a softer, extra emotionally charged single that showcases a unique aspect of the rapper. Drawing inspiration from Aaliyah’s iconic lyricism, Latto seamlessly blends vulnerability with confidence as she sings and raps about craving one thing real. It’s a notable departure from her ordinary braggadocious anthems, signaling each inventive progress and a possible pivot in sound.
Whereas her circulation stays sharp, the emotional stakes really feel increased. Latto isn’t simply delivering bars; she’s exposing her coronary heart. The monitor’s mid-tempo groove and considerate, introspective lyrics place “Anyone” as a possible crossover hit, interesting to each her core fanbase and a extra mainstream viewers.
#4. Moliy ft. Silent Addy, Main Lazer & Ape Drums – Shake It To The Max (Fly) (Remix)
Ghanaian-American singer Moliy is popping up the warmth with a refreshed model of her hit “Shake It To The Max (Fly).” This time, she’s teamed up with heavyweight producers Main Lazer, Ape Drums, and Silent Addy. The remix takes the unique to new heights, including EDM-infused beats to Moliy’s vibrant vocals and afro-futuristic aesthetic.
Consequently, the monitor turns into an irresistible mix of dancehall, Afrobeats, and world pop. You may’t assist however transfer. Main Lazer’s signature basslines pump up the power, whereas Ape Drums’ rhythmic aptitude makes it undeniably club-ready. But, Moliy stays the radiant centerpiece, effortlessly commanding the vibe. It’s a genre-bending banger that proves one factor: Moliy is a voice to look at on the worldwide stage.
#5. Giveon – Relatively Be
Giveon is again and higher than ever with “Relatively Be”—a soulful ballad that completely captures his signature fashion. Recognized for his emotionally resonant love songs, Giveon leans into his strengths as soon as once more. His wealthy baritone and stylish storytelling shine by, delivering a efficiency that feels each easy and deeply stirring.
The manufacturing, led by a powerhouse staff of Sevn Thomas, Maneesh, Matthew Burnett, Jeff Gitty, and Jahaan Candy, is nothing in need of cinematic. The monitor’s lush association options heat horns and intimate chord progressions, creating an environment of nostalgia and longing.
Including to the track’s affect, the Loris Russier-directed video gives a visually beautiful narrative of affection and complexity. It’s refined, heartfelt, and completely enhances the track’s emotional depth. With “Relatively Be,” Giveon continues to construct his catalog of timeless R&B.
Featured picture: Paramount Plus
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